Altra Torin 8
Pros
- True zero-drop midsole
- Foot-shaped, wide toebox
- Excellent durability
- Improved heel lockdown
- Plush step-in comfort
- Keeps the same price
- Can be used for walking
- Amazing for forefoot strikers
- Improved outsole
- Stable
Cons
- Weight gain compared to v7
- Not for rearfoot strikers
- Needs a better foam ASAP
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
- FootShape™ technology: Designed to allow your feet to relax and naturally expand on longer runs.
- Cushioning: Features Altra's signature cushioning aimed at providing comfort without compromising performance.
- Zero Drop platform: Promotes a more natural running form by placing the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground.
Specifications
- Closure type: Lace-Up
- Available Sizes: Various sizes including 10 US
- Color: Dark Blue
- Weight: Lightweight construction
The Altra Torin 8 is a notable zero-drop running shoe, best suited for runners seeking a barefoot experience. It provides significant ground feel, an actual zero drop, and a fluid midsole, all validated by lab tests. Additionally, its foot-shaped toebox enhances comfort during off-road activities.
Two key factors contribute to the Torin 8's barely-there feel: its flat profile and adaptive midsole. With a heel drop measuring just -0.1 mm, it offers a genuine zero-drop experience. The platform's fluid motion complements movements seamlessly, confirmed by our bend test, which shows it is 6.7% more flexible than average.
Another reason for its agility is the exceptional ground feel, provided by a minimal 27.6/27.7 mm stack height. The high level of surface feedback allows adaptation to various terrains, demonstrated by its below-average shock absorption score of 110 SA in the heel.
Our measurements of the gel mold replica indicate ample room in the toebox, with a caliper confirming a width of 83.6 mm. This measurement indicates it is 13.7% wider than average, making it spacious enough for those with broad feet.
A drawback of the Altra Torin 8 is its limited ventilation, which may be a concern for warmer conditions. Runners who prioritize breathability should consider alternative options.
Altra Experience Flow 2
Pros
- Good energy return (finally!)
- Roomy, foot-shaped toebox
- Feather-light build
- Smooth, natural ride
- New plush EGO P35 foam
- Perfect bridge toward zero-drop shoes
- Comfortable for daily wear
- Flexible build
- Massive improvement over v1
Cons
- Poor outsole durability
- Not ideal for heel strikers
- Toebox height may feel slightly low
Key Features
- Altra EGO P35 Midsole Foam: This lightweight foam provides an effortless and comfortable underfoot experience, allowing for longer runs without discomfort.
- Rocker Shape Design: The unique shape of the sole propels you forward with each step, facilitating an efficient toe-off without compromising your natural running style.
- FootShape Fit: Altra's signature design allows for ample room in the toe box, enabling your toes to splay naturally while keeping your midfoot secure.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Polyester
The Altra Experience Flow 2 is designed for runners seeking a light and natural feel in their footwear. It delivers a grounded yet energetic ride, enhancing comfort with its square-shaped upper. Verified by our lab testing, it ranks as the top Altra running shoe we’ve evaluated.
The midsole of the Experience Flow 2 adapts smoothly to each stride, while the outsole’s flex points align with foot structure. It requires minimal effort of 10.0N to bend the shoe to 30 degrees, compared to the average of 15.2N. Each stride feels effortless due to its lightweight construction at 8.3 oz (235g), which is 11.3% lighter than average.
In addition to high adaptability, the Experience Flow 2 offers a natural feel with its low platform of 30.3/25.9 mm and minimal drop of 4.4 mm. Despite its compact design, it provides significant springiness, achieving energy return scores of 60.3% in the heel and 68.1% in the forefoot.
The upper is shaped to mimic the natural contours of the foot, especially in the toebox, accommodating both wide and square feet. At 82.6 mm, it is notably 9.3 mm wider than average, allowing for comfort without pressure points.
However, the outsole has been found to be more susceptible to damage compared to typical running shoes. For those prioritizing durability, this may not be the ideal choice.
Saucony Kinvara 15
Pros
- Easy on the wallet
- Feels great at faster paces
- Really fun
- Retains classic Kinvara vibes
- Stable, low-to-the-ground ride
- Suitable for daily wear
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Enhances foot strength
- Top-notch breathability
Cons
- Limited to short runs
- Not ideal for heel strikers
- Toebox durability
- Minimal outsole rubber coverage
Key Features
- PWRRUN+ sockliner offers step-in comfort that’s hard to resist.
- Responsive PWRRUN cushioning propels you toward your next personal best.
- Ultra-light construction makes you feel like you're floating during your runs.
- Naturally fast and ultra-flexible design allows seamless movement as you pick up the pace.
- 4mm offset promotes a more natural foot strike.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Kinvara 15 is a lightweight shoe from Saucony’s walking-running line, ideal for those seeking agility and comfort during their activities. Our outdoor testing highlighted its airy design, grounded platform, and flexible midsole, resulting in smooth strides. The lab testing further affirms its straightforward performance.
Upon wearing the shoe, its feather-lightness was immediately evident, with an impressive weight of 6.8 oz (194g), making it 26.8% lighter than average and outpacing many other racing shoes. This significant reduction in weight enhances the overall experience for users looking for a nimble footwear option.
The flexible midsole, which is 53.3% more pliable than average, contributes to the comfort experienced during extended walks. Its minimal stack height of 27.9/23.5 mm provides excellent ground connection while ensuring protected landings.
However, the rubber underfoot is softer and thinner than average, suggesting limited durability of the outsole. Those who prioritize longevity in their footwear may want to consider alternative options.
Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2
Pros
- Unique rockered geometry delivers a fun ride
- Fantastic choice for midfoot strikers
- Fiberglass plate balances flex and propulsion
- Good fit for most feet
- High-stack forefoot for cushioned landings
- Reflective details enhance safety at night
- Can handle workouts and daily runs alike
Cons
- Absolutely not for heel strikers
- Non-removable insole
- Upper durability concerns
- Enerzy foam lacks bounce
Key Features
-
Plant-based Material (Pebax Rnew): Infused with MIZUNO ENERZY LITE for improved environmental sustainability.
MIZUNO ENERZY FOAM: Offers versatility, softness, and resilience to enhance performance capabilities.
Glass Fiber Infused Nylon MIZUNO WAVE Plate: Provides superior support and energy return during runs.
Smooth Speed Assist: Features a unique heel-to-toe geometry that reduces muscle tension and encourages a natural mid-forefoot strike.
Engineered Mesh Upper: Breathable and durable, ensuring high performance even in demanding conditions.
Specifications
-
Origin: Imported
Sole Material: Rubber, ensuring good traction and durability.
Outer Material: Nylon, providing a lightweight yet strong structure.
Closure Type: Lace-Up, allowing for a customizable fit.
The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 is designed for runners seeking speed and responsiveness. Its unique geometry and underfoot sensation provide a notable running experience, making it an excellent choice for tempo runs.
This shoe's performance is enhanced by its energetic midsole and **Wave Plate**, verified through lab tests. The **bouncy cushioning** demonstrates a high energy return rate of **59.6%** in the forefoot, contributing to an effective stride with significant impact protection.
During our bend test, the shoe required a near-average force of **15.8N** to reach **30 degrees**, indicating a forgiving flex for a plated model. Weighing only **8.4 oz (239g)**, this shoe is **9.8%** below average, further supporting a lightweight feel ideal for training sessions.
Each takeoff is accompanied by **divine cushioning**, as evidenced by a shock absorption score of **148 SA**, which indicates it absorbs impact **16.5%** better than average, helping to maintain leg freshness throughout longer runs.
However, the shoe's performance may be compromised in wet conditions. With a traction score of only **0.42**, it is advisable to use the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 primarily on dry pavements to ensure optimal stability.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road
Pros
- Marshmallowy plush cushioning
- Great for recovery days
- Extremely flexible and forgiving
- Rockered midsole for smooth transitions
- Above average breathability
- Excellent performance in cold conditions
- Provides good stability
- Ideal for long runs
- Accommodating toebox
Cons
- Lacking in upper durability
- Needs some breaking in
Key Features
- Fresh Foam X midsole: Provides an incredibly cushioned experience for optimal comfort during runs.
- No-sew upper construction: Ensures a sleek fit and minimizes the risk of irritation.
- Synthetic/mesh upper: Offers breathability and durability, ideal for various weather conditions.
- Rubber outsole pods: Designed to withstand daily wear-and-tear, enhancing the shoe's longevity.
- Adjustable lace closure: Allows for a customized fit that can accommodate different foot shapes and preferences.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Closure type: Lace-Up
At a price of $85, the New Balance Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road is positioned as a budget-friendly option among daily trainers, which average $131 based on our lab data. This shoe delivers a balanced combination of comfort for runs, a slight rebound effect, and reliable stability.
The midsole demonstrates notable comfort, achieving strong shock absorption scores of 132 in the heel and 124 in the forefoot. The plush cushioning alleviates stress on muscles and joints, enabling longer runs than initially anticipated.
With a responsive feel, the midsole provides a pleasant spring effect during takeoff. In our energy return test, the Kaiha Road achieved results beyond the standard, recording 59.2% in the heel and 61.7% in the forefoot.
This model balances softness and responsiveness with a broad base, measured at 119.2/100.1 mm, effectively enhancing stability during runs. This width allows for a more relaxed running experience without excessive effort to maintain balance.
However, the emphasis on cushioning contributes to increased stiffness in the Kaiha Road. Runners seeking a more natural underfoot sensation or a trainer suitable for walking may want to consider a more flexible alternative.