ASICS Novablast 5
Pros
- Improved energy return with FF Blast MAX foam
- Plushiest foam in a Novablast yet
- Keeps the same price as v4
- Higher stack height for extra cushioning
- Enhanced flexibility
- Lighter than its predecessor
- Best Novablast ever for wide feet
- Exceptional weight-to-cushion balance
- Works for short, medium and long runs
Cons
- Breathability could be improved
- Toebox durability
Key Features
- Maximal Midsole Cushioning: The ASICS Novablast 5 features a maximalist midsole design that enhances comfort and shock absorption, making it suitable for longer runs.
- Grippy Outsole: The outsole is engineered with high-traction rubber to provide reliable grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability during your runs.
- Engineered Fit: Designed with a focus on improving fit, these shoes ensure a secure lockdown, allowing you to focus on your performance without distractions.
- Synthetic Materials: Both the outer and inner materials are crafted from synthetic components, optimizing durability and breathability.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: Ankle Strap
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Inner Material: Synthetic
The Novablast 5 is ideal for runners with a heel-strike pattern, providing substantial cushioning and comfort across various distances and paces.
This shoe features exceptional softness, particularly noticeable during heel landings, with a measured cushion height of 40.9 mm. Our durometer tests indicated that the midsole is 38.4% softer than average, which contributes to a pillowy yet responsive underfoot experience.
Unlike many maximalist shoes that may compromise stability, the Novablast 5 offers increased width in the midsole, with an added 8.3/6.9 mm in the forefoot and heel. This design helps secure footing while minimizing the risk of ankle rolls, even during sharp turns.
The lightweight build, at only 9.0 oz (254g), combined with its uncomplicated midsole, makes Novablast 5 an excellent choice for daily training. Our flexibility test confirmed this, showing it to be 32.2% more flexible than average, allowing for a natural stride.
A key drawback is that the outsole does not provide sufficient traction on wet surfaces, making it less suitable for those requiring maximum grip.
Nike Pegasus 41
Pros
- Enhanced for heel strikers
- New ReactX foam!
- Improved breathability
- Plush upper
- Good durability
- Several stability enhancements
- Newly designed rocker and bevel
- Solid performance
- Superior lockdown
- Sustainable features
Cons
- Price increased by $10
- Worse than the v40 in cold temperatures
- Poor grip
Key Features
- Excellent Cushioning: The ReactX foam midsole combined with Air Zoom elements provides a highly responsive ride, enhancing comfort with every stride.
- Superior Breathability: Constructed with improved technical mesh upper, these shoes ensure exceptional ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry even during extended periods of running.
- Increased Comfort: Features like the soft tongue on the collar and insole deliver a stable feel, providing additional support during your runs.
- Lightweight Design: The use of innovative materials reduces shoe weight without sacrificing stability, which is crucial for longer runs.
- Enhanced Energy Return: The combination of ReactX foam and Air Zoom elements optimizes energy return, allowing for powerful and efficient strides.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Inner Material: Manmade
- Closure Type: Clasp
- Weight: Approximately 10 oz (for men's size 10)
- Drop: 10 mm
- Model Fit: MR-10 last for the best and most consistent fit
The Nike Pegasus 41 is designed for runners who engage in heel-strike patterns, making it a dependable daily trainer. It offers a balanced ride with reliable cushioning and smooth transitions, suitable for various running styles including steady runs and speed bursts.
This model promotes foot strength through its straightforward midsole, which adapts well to natural strides and provides an effortless feel. The curved sole enhances the toe-off experience, and lab tests reveal it is **34.0%** more flexible than average.
Another notable feature is the new ReactX foam, measured at **33.6/22.2 mm**, which effectively balances impact protection at the heel with surface feedback at the forefoot. With a high **11.4 mm** drop, it caters specifically to heel strikers, and the foam's plushness is rated at **15.8 HA**, enhanced by two Air Zoom units for additional comfort.
The Pegasus 41 includes discreet support features, ideal for beginners or long-distance runners seeking extra guidance as fatigue sets in. The midsole sidewalls help prevent excessive movement, while the heel area, measuring **89.2 mm**, provides stability during landings.
Although the weight of **9.9 oz (281g)** is not considered heavy, runners accustomed to lighter footwear may find it less agile.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Pros
- Durable upper and outsole
- Spacious upper fit
- Enhanced midsole comfort
- Great value at $225 for a supershoe
- Versatile across all paces
- Ideal for heel strikers
- More stable than ever
Cons
- Slightly heavier than v3
- Less suited for forefoot strikers
- Competitors may feel quicker
Key Features
- Maximum Race-Day Speed: The integration of SPEEDROLL technology and a full-length carbon fiber plate provides powerful propulsion and a smoother forward motion during runs.
- Super Responsive Dual-Foam Cushioning: The sneaker features the advanced PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB midsole, ensuring exceptional energy return and ultra-light cushioning for long-distance comfort.
- Lightweight & Breathable Design: An engineered mesh upper offers a secure, breathable fit that keeps your feet cool and supported even during intense workouts.
- Enhanced Stability: Optimized geometry improves balance, stride efficiency, and overall running economy, helping to reduce fatigue over extended distances.
- Durable Outsole: The high-grip rubber outsole ensures reliable traction and durability on both roads and tracks, making it ideal for competitive runners.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Nylon
The Endorphin Pro 4 is best suited for runners with a heel strike pattern who prioritize comfort and speed in their footwear.
In our test runs, the shoe features a plush midsole complemented by the carbon plate’s Speedroll technology, which delivers a smooth and energetic ride. With a weight of only 7.8 oz (220g), this light supershoe provides significant energy return thanks to its S-shaped carbon plate that creates an ultra-stiff core.
The lively midsole promotes effortless transitions while maintaining comfort. Its 38.1 mm heel is designed to absorb impact with a 9.5 mm drop that supports heel-striker strides, and it retains stability through a firmer 22.0 HA foam layer beneath the softer 18.5 HA top layer.
The durable outsole contributes to the shoe's longevity, able to withstand repetitive impacts in the rear area. Our durometer testing shows that the 2.1 mm thick XT-900 rubber has a hardness rating of 85.3 HC, indicating notable durability, and it surpasses average performance in our rigorous Dremel test.
However, it is worth noting that some elite racers may find other options more suited to achieving peak performance, as the EP4 emphasizes comfort over sheer speed.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Pros
- Stack height upgrade!
- Reliable support
- Breathable mesh with oversized vents
- Price remains unchanged
- Available in 4 width options
- Good durability
- Plush tongue for top comfort
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Foam upgrade to DNA Loft v3
Cons
- Firmer-than-expected midsole
- High drop may feel too steep
- Toebox height is a bit low
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Guidance System: The Guiderails Holistic Support System helps guide your body in its natural motion path, preventing excess movement.
- Dynamic Cushioning: With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam, enjoy soft and adaptive cushioning for a luxurious running experience.
- Enhanced Upper: The engineered air mesh upper provides breathability, stretch, and structural support for a comfortable fit.
- Smooth Transitions: A newly designed outsole and midsole enhance smooth transitions during your run.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Rubber
- Inner material: Nylon
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is ideal for heel strikers seeking stability in their running shoes. Its design features a balance of cushioning and rigidity, ensuring each landing remains secure.
The rear section of the shoe is notable for its performance. The heel counter received a stiffness rating of 4/5, providing a steady hold without excessive harshness. Additionally, the heel's landing base measures 95.0 mm, which surpasses the average by 4.3 mm.
In terms of comfort, the heel stack height is a significant 39.0 mm, compared to the average of 34.2 mm, delivering ample support for repetitive impacts. With a drop of 13.5 mm, the shoe enhances transition smoothness, making it particularly suitable for rear strikers.
The inclusion of GuideRails technology is an essential feature that helps maintain foot positioning. This design element contributes to stability, allowing for greater control during runs.
A potential drawback is that the shoe feels somewhat firm, prioritizing support over plush cushioning. Runners who favor a softer feel may want to explore other options.
HOKA Cielo X1 2.0
Pros
- Much lighter than v1
- Plush and responsive PEBA foam
- Top-tier breathability
- Forked plate adds heel flex
- Comfort-focused heel padding
- Outsole durability is not a concern
- Improved upper and laces
- Works well from 5K to the marathon
- Premium TPEE insole
Cons
- Pricier than most rivals
- Rocker can feel too aggressive
- Narrow-fitting upper
Key Features
- Synthetic upper: Provides a lightweight and breathable fit.
- Advanced Cushioning: Delivers superior comfort during long-distance runs.
- Running shoe: Designed specifically for performance and stability.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber, ensuring good traction and durability.
- Shaft height: Ankle Strap, providing added support.
- Outer material: Synthetic, which aids in flexibility and weight reduction.
- Inner material: Nylon, enhancing comfort against the skin.
The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is designed for runners who strike with their heels, emphasizing notable comfort and agility during runs. This shoe offers an impressive ride characterized by exceptional shock absorption and energy return.
In our measurements, the heel height is recorded at 38.8 mm, which effectively protects the feet from impact forces. The shoe demonstrated significant shock absorption capabilities with a 160 SA reading, indicating it can reduce stress on the legs by 26.0% more than average.
The energy return score of 75.9% reflects its capacity to enhance propulsion, compared to the average score of 58.3%. This high performance is further supported by the integration of a carbon plate in the midsole and a pronounced heel curvature that promotes forward motion.
Additionally, its lightweight design, weighing just 7.3 oz (208g), facilitates easier foot lift, aiding in maintaining speed and efficiency. However, this shoe has limitations in stability, as evidenced by its narrow 80.6 mm heel width, making it less suitable for runners who require additional support.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2
Pros
- Lighter than version 1
- Comfortable yet breathable upper
- Cold-proof PEBA midsole
- Stable ride with Support Rods
- Reflective accents for night visibility
- Maintains competitive price tag
- Responsive Dreamstrike+ foam
- Flexible, natural running experience
- Great for walking
Cons
- Outsole lacks Continental
- Not cushioned for forefoot strikers
- Still lacks a gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Supportive Design: The shoes incorporate a well-cushioned midsole that provides excellent support during runs.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, they promise longevity even under rigorous use.
- Lace-Up Closure: The traditional lace-up design ensures a secure fit throughout your run.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for running, walking, and casual outings, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.
- Breathable Material: The polyester outer material allows for airflow, helping to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Reliable Traction: Equipped with a rubber sole that offers good grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability and safety.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Supernova Rise 2 is a highly spacious and supportive running shoe, making it particularly well-suited for individuals with wide feet. During our testing, both on the road and in the lab, this shoe demonstrated a forgiving ride that allows for extended mileage, especially among heel-strike runners.
This model provides ample space for broader or swollen feet, with our gel mold measuring the ball of the foot area at 98.7 mm, surpassing the average of 95.5 mm. Throughout our testing, there was no discomfort or unwanted pressure experienced on the feet.
Stability is enhanced by small side wraps in the heel and the Support Rods, which assist in aligning foot placement without sacrificing comfort. Our durometer measurements revealed a solid balance, with a reading of 21.0 HA, consistent with the average performance metrics.
The light and flexible construction contributes to an effortless sensation during runs. With a weight of only 9.1 oz (257g), it is below the average of 9.4 oz (267g). Additionally, the shoe exhibited 37.4% greater flexibility than average during our flex test.
However, we noted potential concerns regarding the outsole's durability, suggesting that those prioritizing longevity in their footwear may want to explore other options.
Nike Pegasus Premium
Pros
- Triple-layer, spring-like midsole
- Handles long runs and tempo efforts
- Sublime step-in comfort
- Incredibly fun to ride
- Amazing build quality
- Knit upper offers top breathability
- Visually stunning from every angle
- 360-degree reflectivity
- Finally a max-cushioned Pegasus!
Cons
- Narrow fit excludes many runners
- Needs to lose some weight
- High price
- It's noisy!
Key Features
- Lightweight and breathable mesh upper for enhanced comfort
- Dual Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel for responsive cushioning
- Supportive midfoot band for improved stability
- Durable rubber outsole for excellent traction
- Ideal for runners of all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Inner material: Textile
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Nike Pegasus Premium is well-suited for rear strikers, offering a steep drop, exceptional impact protection, and a propulsive ride, all confirmed through lab testing. Its notable energy return sets it apart from other heel-strike running shoes, making it a compelling choice for those seeking performance.
This model incorporates a full-length Air Zoom unit, providing consistent comfort from heel to toe. Our tests revealed an impressive energy return score of 67.3%.
The shoe also excels in shock absorption, with a high score of 155 SA, reducing impact by 22.0% compared to average running shoes. This feature ensures plush landings with each powerful stride.
With a stack height of 42.8/31.0 mm and a drop of 11.8 mm, the Pegasus Premium delivers smooth transitions for rear strikers, enhancing overall cushioning and support.
However, the tapered toebox may pose a drawback for runners with wider feet or those prone to swelling. For those seeking a more accommodating fit, alternatives with a roomier design may be advisable.