Brooks Glycerin Max
Pros
- Massive impact dampening
- Luxurious yet breathable upper
- New DNA Tuned midsole
- Eye-catching look
- Surprisingly stable
- Can be used as a walking shoe
- Premium materials
Cons
- Too heavy
- Midsole lacks bounce
- Poor rubber coverage
- High price tag
Key Features
- Maximum Soft Cushion Technology: The Glycerin Max ensures every step feels effortless thanks to its high stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned Cushion in the midsole.
- GlideRoll Rocker: Features a sculpted heel bevel and toe spring geometries for smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making it easier for you to push forward.
- DNA Tuned Foam: This next-generation foam uses dual-size cell technology to protect your body from impact while providing a comfortable ride.
- Comfort Fit: The unique Linear Last construction offers more volume, accommodating all foot shapes and allowing use with orthotics.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Inner Material: Nylon
The Brooks Glycerin Max is a running shoe designed for individuals seeking comfort during their training sessions. It excels in providing significant support and cushioning, making it suitable for underpronation runners.
This model features a substantial stack height of 42.3/35.7 mm, which effectively absorbs shock and minimizes stress on joints and muscles. With a high 148 SA score, it offers 16.5% more protection than the average running shoe.
Despite its elevated stack, the Glycerin Max maintains notable stability through a stiffened midsole. Our manual assessment revealed a high degree of torsional rigidity, resulting in a score of 4/5.
The upper material provides impressive comfort and breathability, handling heat-intensive runs effectively. This performance is confirmed by a maximum rating of 5/5 during our breathability test.
One drawback of the Glycerin Max is its focus on comfort, which may leave some runners desiring a more dynamic, springy feel from the midsole. Runners looking for an energized ride may want to consider alternatives.
Hoka Bondi 9
Pros
- Endless cushioning
- New supercritical EVA midsole
- Amazing step-in comfort
- Doubles as a walking shoe
- Stable for its height
- Built to last
- Excels at slow-and-steady paces
- Well-designed heel collar
- Lighter than v8
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Still feels heavy and clunky underfoot
- Drop measurement differs from stated
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Engineered Mesh: Provides breathability and support.
- Durabrasion Rubber: Enhances durability in high-wear zones.
- Premium Foam Midsole: Offers excellent cushioning and resilience.
- Increased Stack Height: Ensures a plush ride over various terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Inner Material: Textile
The Hoka Bondi 9 is designed for runners seeking exceptional cushioning and reliable support. Its notable durability makes it a strong choice among cushioned running shoes, as confirmed by lab tests that highlight its sturdy build.
Testing with our Dremel revealed that the Bondi 9 exhibits above-average wear resistance. It recorded a minimal 0.9 mm dent in the outsole, with durability scores of 4/5 in the toebox and 5/5 in the heel, demonstrating its ability to withstand multiple training blocks.
The shoe offers a plush interior, featuring a substantial 41.3/32.2 mm stack height, ensuring ample cushioning for extended runs. Shock absorption tests indicate effective foam performance, with scores of 146 SA in the heel and 133 SA in the forefoot, mitigating the impact of landings.
To promote stability, the midsole measures 123.2/100.9 mm, providing more space than average for centering feet and enhancing balance. Elevated sidewalls further contribute to this support, allowing for a secure fit during runs.
However, the increased height and width contribute to a weight of 10.7 oz (303g), making it 14.3% heavier than average. This added weight may not be suitable for runners who prefer a more agile experience.
Topo Atmos
Pros
- Max-cushioned comfort
- Ultra-spacious toebox
- Stable ride
- Premium Ortholite footbed
- Midfoot-friendly geometry
- Lightweight for its huge size
- Great for easy long runs
- No heel slippage
Cons
- Lacks energy return
- Not for narrow-footed runners
- Could be a bit more flexible
Key Features
- Max Cushioning: With a 40 x 35 mm platform, these neutral road running shoes offer exceptional plush comfort and shock absorption.
- Energetic Ride: The updated ZipFoam midsole provides lightweight cushioning and enhanced rebound, ensuring an efficient stride.
- Lighter Outsole: A newly designed outsole enhances grip and slip resistance while minimizing weight, allowing for a stable ride.
- Breathable Recycled Upper: Made from recycled materials, the engineered mesh upper offers excellent airflow and adaptability, promoting sustainability.
- All-Day Comfort: The OrthoLite Performance Insole delivers cushioned support that resists compression, suitable for extended wear.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Topo Atmos is a wide walking shoe best suited for those seeking significant stability and comfort during extended walks. Our lab tests indicate that it provides exceptional impact protection while maintaining a well-balanced feel.
During testing, we noted the roominess of the shoe, with our caliper measurements revealing a base width of 119.1/96.8 mm. This is considerably wider than the average width of 114.1/90.6 mm, which contributed to a confident stance and solid footing with each step. Additionally, our gel mold replica indicates that the ball of the foot measures 98.5 mm, approximately 3.1% above average.
The Topo Atmos features a stack height of 37.8/32.5 mm and utilizes 20.0 HA cushioning, designed to dampen impact and deliver comfort without sacrificing support. Despite its substantial build, this model weighs only 9.7 oz (275g), ensuring it remains lightweight even after prolonged use.
However, it is important to note that the Topo Atmos exhibits a slightly stiffer construction compared to other options, which may be less suitable for individuals who prefer more flexibility in their footwear.
Altra VIA Olympus 2
Pros
- Incredibly roomy toebox
- Authentic zero-drop design
- Extremely cushy and soft midsole
- Superb all-around durability
- Cozy upper
- Remarkably stable
- Ideal for long runs
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- Tongue not gusseted
- Still a bit heavy
Key Features
- Sole Material: Made from durable rubber for enhanced traction and longevity.
- Outer Material: Constructed with engineered mesh that promotes breathability and flexibility.
- Closure Type: Features a traditional lace-up system for a secure fit.
- Water Resistance: Not water-resistant, making it suitable for dry conditions.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Engineered mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is a top choice among zero-drop running shoes for long-distance runners, offering a cushioned midsole that provides a dynamic ride alongside a durable outsole proven to withstand extensive mileage.
Constructed with EGO MAX foam, the VIA Olympus 2 delivers a generously cushioned and responsive experience that enhances comfort during endurance runs. The shoe features a tall 34.8 mm heel and a 35.0 mm forefoot, marking it as one of the tallest in its category, while maintaining a 0.2 mm drop to align with Altra’s zero-drop philosophy. Its plush foam is 32.2% softer than average, providing each stride with notable bounce and comfort.
The toebox incorporates Altra’s FootShape design, replicating the natural foot silhouette for enhanced comfort. With a roomy 104.4 mm toebox that tapers to 91.1 mm at the big toe, it effectively accommodates foot swelling experienced during long runs.
Additionally, the outsole utilizes FootPod technology, featuring anatomical cuts that align with the foot structure. Although it has a softer composition compared to typical models, it exhibits 33.3% less wear in our Dremel test than average, demonstrating its durability.
A noted drawback of the VIA Olympus 2 is its limited ventilation, which may lead to blisters and hotspots during runs in hot conditions. If breathability is essential for your activities, you may want to consider alternative options.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15
Pros
- Affordable max-stack option
- Secure and comfortable lockdown
- Rockered geometry
- Plush tongue enhances comfort
- No heel slippage whatsoever
- Amazing for long runs
- Durable yet comfy upper
- Fairly priced
- Stable ride
Cons
- Much heavier than previous version
- Not the best for walking or casual use
- Fresh Foam X feels firmer than expected
- Outsole durability is now a real concern
Key Features
- GORE-TEX waterproof fabric: Protects your feet from wind, rain, and water while maintaining excellent breathability.
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam: Offers an incredibly cushioned experience, enhancing comfort for long-distance runs.
- Hydrohesion rubber outsole: Provides superior grip in wet conditions, ensuring stability with every stride.
- Reflective details: Improves visibility during low-light situations, promoting safety when running at dawn or dusk.
Specifications
- Fabric type: Mesh
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 is designed for those looking for a comfortable walking shoe that delivers a smooth ride. Its rocker geometry enhances stability, making it suitable for various walking activities. In lab tests, it distinguished itself with its ultra-thick forefoot and notable joint protection, resulting in superior comfort.
Our measurements revealed generous cushioning of 39.7 mm in the heel and 35.4 mm in the forefoot, which is taller than the average heel stack in our review. This cushioning effectively eliminates ground contact sensations, providing significant relief during long periods of use. The forefoot also excelled in our shock absorption test, achieving a score of 114 SA, which is 8.6% above average.
The platform's height does not compromise stability, as it exhibits high resistance to twisting and lateral movements, earning a perfect 5/5 rating in our torsional rigidity test. Its rocker structure facilitates easy forward transitions, making it ideal for walking. Users can expect a stable experience without feeling unbalanced.
However, concerns about durability arise due to the significant amount of exposed foam and minimal 1.9 mm rubber in the outsole. Those who need a shoe for daily wear may want to consider options that offer greater longevity. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 provides excellent comfort but may not be the best choice for extensive everyday use.
Nike Wildhorse 10
Pros
- Cushion-packed midsole
- Modernized upper
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Better build quality
- Bold new look with better finish
- Versatile
- Improved energy return
- Forefoot rock plate
Cons
- Still too heavy
- Mesh upper is fragile
- Brutal price hike
- Less agile than predecessors
Key Features
- Engineered mesh upper: Combines breathability with open holes for improved airflow.
- ReactX foam midsole: Offers lightweight energy return, ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Nike Trail ATC outsole: Made from an all-terrain compound suitable for various weather conditions, including wet surfaces.
- Ankle collar: Designed to prevent debris from entering the shoe while you’re on the move.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: A blend of mesh and textile, featuring a rubber outsole.
- Inner material: Engineered mesh for added comfort and breathability.
The Nike Wildhorse 10 is well-suited for hikers seeking strong shock absorption, energy return, and stability during outdoor adventures. Our lab tests confirm its effective cushioning and wide platform, making it one of the best options in the category of Nike hiking shoes.
With ample cushioning providing comfort on long trails, the shoe boasts a stack height of 38.3/27.4 mm, which contributes to gentle landings. During our shock absorption tests, it demonstrated superior impact reduction, recording 144/105 SA compared to the average of 120/97 SA.
The bouncy cushion enhances each step with notable energy return, as evidenced by an impressive score of 61.3% in our tests. Additionally, the Wildhorse 10 features a wide platform measuring 120.6/93.8 mm, which provides more stability than the average 112.4/89.5 mm width.
Its roomy toebox accommodates various foot shapes; however, it may not be suitable for individuals with narrow feet who prefer a more secure fit. Overall, while the cushioning and stability are significant advantages, potential users should consider their foot shape when choosing this model.