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Latest reviews

Fresh experiences from real runners, collected from Reddit, YouTube and blogs and linked to their sources.

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Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2Positive

Blog · WeeViews – Hollie S · 2 days ago

Proof Salomon can make a legit road racer: responsive, bouncy foam, an efficient plate, a smooth ride, a light, breathable upper, and traction she'd trust in the wet. Minimal wear at 50 miles, and she expects ~200. One of her favourite carbon shoes this year. Not for short intervals.

Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2Positive

Blog · Runpanel – Or Dalah · 2 days ago

A rare combination of softness, bounce and stability: soft landings, very high responsiveness, and heel and upper stabilisers that, unlike other soft shoes, didn't irritate his ankle tendons. No visible outsole wear after ~200 km, and Contagrip improves grip on asphalt. The extra ankle support takes getting used to.

Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2Positive

Blog · RunMag – David · 2 days ago

9/10. A very pleasant fit that adapts even to wide feet, with slipper-like comfort and lightness. Soft Energy Foam+ and a carbon plate combine for dynamic, efficient fast running, and the grip bites on the forefoot. He wouldn't use it for easy endurance runs. Ideal for prepared racers, 5K to marathon.

Nike Alphafly 4Positive

Blog · Running Lab – Julien Guyod · 2 days ago

A 2:38 marathoner calls it a formidable weapon from 5K to the marathon: excellent shock absorption at any distance, best when you accelerate, and a tough Atomknit upper. Less explosive for sharp track work. The foam shows visible wear fast and an Air unit burst on his v3, so save it for race day.

Nike Alphafly 4Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Nathan Brown · 2 days ago

His current racing shoe of choice from 5 miles to the marathon: bouncy, fun and versatile, with a secure, roomy-for-a-racer fit, and comparatively stable, so it works at 5:30/mile or 9+ min/mile. It's comparatively heavy (still light) and squeaky; 5K specialists have lighter, more aggressive options.

Nike Alphafly 4Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run · 2 days ago

It remains one of the best race-day shoes, especially for the marathon: a comfortable, accommodating upper, light, bouncy foam and Air pods that carry tired legs late on, now cheaper. Lighter, faster options exist, and it squeaked for the first 5–6 miles. Another tester: 'you can buy confidence.'

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2Positive

Blog · Run & Smile – Roman Brcar · 2 days ago

Not a do-it-all shoe. Bought with his own money, reviewed in agreement with NB. Over 120 km it felt light, snappy and propulsive; it kept him in control through a half marathon and showed no outsole wear. Comfortable with no blisters, sticky on wet roads and stable in corners. Best for 5K to half and workouts, not easy runs. Size up half.

Brooks Hyperion Elite 5Negative

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 2 days ago

A decent racer, but he hoped to improve on the Elite 4 PB, which feels faster to him. It's too firm and lacks bounce, so he wouldn't race a marathon in it. Positives: a stiff, snappy plate, outstanding outsole durability, more stability than most racers. The heel counter is loose, and it's not worth $275.

Brooks Hyperion Elite 5Negative

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein · 2 days ago

Brooks finally has a legit super racer: bouncy foam, a responsive heel and good durability after 30 hard miles, best for longer efforts. But heel slippage, excessive toe spring and poor midfoot stability limit him to moderate distances. It lacks speed versatility, the upper needs work, and it's not a $275 shoe.

Brooks Hyperion Elite 5Mixed

Blog · Believe in the Run · 2 days ago

Graded D for value at $275. One tester found it efficient (splits faster than it felt) but too squishy, with a loose heel on corners. It rides like an old racing flat without super-shoe spark. A third tester was surprised: light, fast and durable with excellent grip; he'd use it up to a half, not a marathon.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3Positive

Blog · Tom's Guide – Nick Harris-Fry · 2 days ago

The fastest, lightest, most exciting racer on the market: his heart rate ran lower at speed and he recovered faster between reps. But it's wobbly and soft, may lack support late in a marathon, and might only be at its best for about 100 miles. At $500 he says most people who'd have to buy it probably shouldn't.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3Positive

Blog · The Running Channel – Aubrey (via Mark Dredge) · 2 days ago

One tester, a sub-4 marathoner who bought his own pair, ran a two-minute half PB in it: serious pop, best-in-class foam and surprising comfort. Downsides: £450/$500, built for one marathon plus some training, a barely-there upper that needs careful lacing, short laces, and a squishy ride for strong runners only.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 3Positive

Blog · Tom's Guide – Nick Harris-Fry · 2 days ago

For some runners the super-soft, springy ride will be irresistible: very fun and undoubtedly quick, matched only by the even less stable Metaspeed Ray. For him it's a little too soft, and heavier than rivals: the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo and Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 are a couple of ounces lighter and remain his picks.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 3Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Andrea Myers & Matt Klein · 2 days ago

Incredibly soft and responsive, with a secure, comfortable upper, a great wide squared-off toe box, and more stability and speed versatility than v2. It's soft and unstable when slow, and one tester preferred it at 5K–10K pace. It's heavy for a modern super racer and unstable cornering at speed.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 3Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Meaghan Murray & Thomas Neuberger · 2 days ago

A solid update with extra foam adding welcome stability. It's light, comfortable and bouncy, and one tester will keep it for workouts and long runs, but it's a bit too squishy and lacks the aggressive snap she wants on the start line. One of the comfiest racers, not the lightest or fastest.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 3Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run · 2 days ago

One tester may have found her new race-day shoe: the incredibly bouncy, fun ride of the EE2 in a much better-fitting upper with a slotted carbon plate and tweaked geometry. Testers flag that it's heavy for a top super shoe and priced at the top end, and another tester feels the added drive costs some of the bouncy fun.

On LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2Positive

Blog · Jolie Foulée – Nicolas Brun · 2 days ago

'A hell of a shoe': more comfortable and less narrow than an Adios Pro 4, with immediate dynamism that lowered his heart rate at a given pace, and the LightSpray upper hadn't moved an inch after 100+ km. At 158 g it's built for marathons and long races on the road. Like most super shoes, it dislikes turns.

On LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2Negative

Blog · The Running Club – Andrea Soffientini & Roberto · 2 days ago

Very light (158–168 g) and comfortable once on, built for steady marathon pacing, not explosive pushes, with less reactivity than the first Strike or Echo 3. After testing, the right shoe showed partial sole separation and a midsole cut. At €310 it's hard to justify over the laced version.

ASICS S4+ YogiriPositive

Blog · Akirun – Akira · 2 days ago

Pace decides it: at 4:30/km it shone, stable and rolling over 35 km, ideal for sub-3.5 to sub-4. Jogging at 6:00/km it feels board-like and slaps, and at 4:00/km and interval pace it gives clearly less help than a Metaspeed, so it's not a sub-3 racer. The outsole tread is still good at 300 km.

ASICS S4+ YogiriPositive

Blog · Road Trail Run – Sam Winebaum · 2 days ago

Delivers exactly what S4 stands for: speed, stability, safety and sub-4. Stability is the highlight, almost to a fault: you won't wobble, sit back on your heels or struggle to transition whatever your race pace, at a reasonable 8.1 oz and $200. The dense lower Flytefoam gives a dull, firm heel with little bounce.

ASICS S4+ YogiriNegative

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 2 days ago

If you've run in a Metaspeed or any super shoe, you won't be happy: it's firmer and less engaging. ASICS made it too firm for stability and kept old Flytefoam underneath. It's slightly lighter than the S4 with excellent traction, but it doesn't feel like a super shoe, and the US price is ~$50 above Japan's.

Altra Vanish CarbonNegative

Blog · Coach – Nick Harris-Fry · 2 days ago

A great racing and fast-training option for Altra loyalists, light at 223 g and grippy even on wet roads. But the EVA foam showed considerable wear after just 55 km. Given the high price, durability concerns and a midsole that's less fast and propulsive than the best, non-devotees will find better carbon shoes.

Altra Vanish CarbonPositive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Thomas Neuberger · 2 days ago

He likes it: a lively ride, cushioning that can chew up miles, and a plate noticeable enough to help click off miles. Once on, it's the best-fitting Altra he's tested, though classic fans may miss toe room. The thick, waxy laces are hard to adjust, an odd choice on a $240 shoe, and the tongue makes it fiddly to put on.

Altra Escalante Racer 2Positive

Blog · Pace Buddies – Joost Dekker · 2 days ago

His ideal bridge to minimalist running after injury: a very wide toe box, a light 224 g weight, a hugging heel and a responsive near-ground feel. After 600 km the heel is worn and it needs replacing, but the knit held up. It's brilliant in heat but cold below 5°C, and no shoe for heel strikers.

Altra Escalante Racer 2Negative

Blog · Doctors of Running – Andrea Myers · 2 days ago

Altra's lowest-stack shoe, best at moderate-to-uptempo paces and fartleks, and its stiff platform may help those with hallux limitus. For one tester the stiff platform felt like fighting the shoe at faster paces, and the big weight gain over v1 held it back. Durability is typical, and it isn't for technical terrain.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 5Positive

Blog · RunToTheFinish – Stacey Gross · 2 days ago

Still the everyday runner's carbon-plated shoe: super durable on the road, the treadmill and even crushed gravel. It loses points for the new sock-like upper, which isn't very flexible. The heel collar can irritate with low socks, and it runs a little narrow with no wide option yet.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 5Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein · 2 days ago

A completely different shoe: a faster distance super racer that's still durable enough for lots of workouts and races, with a stable rear/midfoot, a smooth rockered forefoot, a wider fit and great traction. The forefoot is less stable medially, and the harsh upper with a thin tongue caused lace bite early on.

Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PBPositive

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 2 days ago

Brooks finally joins the PEBA party with a competitive marathon racer: more energy return, responsiveness that made speeding up effortless, and an incredibly breathable knit upper. Its firm-ish ride resembles the Metaspeed Sky Paris. There's no aggressive forefoot rocker, and the design looks dated.

Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PBPositive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Thomas Neuberger & Meaghan Murray · 2 days ago

Not one tester's first pick. Brooks finally has a competitive marathon racer that stacks up against the Vaporfly, Metaspeed and Adios Pro 4. One tester, burned by v2 (22 miles to bloody heels), wouldn't make it her #1 start-line pick but thinks it will be for many. Another tester is wary of how Brooks has rolled out its racers.

ASICS Metaspeed RayNegative

Blog · Runhike – Tofu · 2 days ago

Specialised for lightness, middling in performance. With no plate to the toe the final push-off is weak, and stride extension takes effort. It lacks the rocker-roll of the Edge Tokyo too. Only an advantage in races where every gram matters, and he can't find a use for it next to the Sky and Edge.

ASICS Metaspeed RayPositive

Blog · Kyo mo Hashirimasuta+ · 2 days ago

A strong buy: marshmallow-soft and astonishingly light, and he ran his 3 km ekiden leg 47 s faster than the previous year, a PB at 53. The outsole wore as if he'd run a full marathon after only 3 km, and the instability gave him sore abs for three days. Keep it for very special races.

ASICS Metaspeed RayNegative

Blog · Kami no BU Nisshi – Kami · 2 days ago

Under 120 g and feels like nothing, with soft foam and surprisingly durable thin rubber after a full marathon. But it was wobbly even at 3:35/km, and he cramped after 20 km at Kobe. As he faded, the softness turned into bouncing up rather than forward, so for him it's a half-marathon-and-under shoe.

ASICS Metaspeed RayMixed

Blog · Believe in the Run – Meaghan Murray & Thomas Neuberger · 2 days ago

Ridiculously good at race pace, sinking into soft foam that gives the energy straight back. A weapon on the right feet, but not for most people: recovery jogs felt wobbly, one tester wouldn't recommend it to mid-pack marathoners, and another tester's pair looked heavily worn at 52 mi.

On Cloudboom Echo 3Negative

Blog · FueledByLOLZ – Hollie Sick · 2 days ago

She likes the ride for shorter efforts. She likes it, but it's too firm for her beyond 15 miles. After 50 miles the outsole showed significant wear, so she doubts it will last 100. At $289 it's no better than other carbon racers: you pay for the name.

On Cloudboom Echo 3Negative

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 2 days ago

Disappointing and not in his top two tiers of marathon racers. The ride is too firm, the propulsion modest and the rocker not prominent. Traction, the upper and lockdown are great, but durability is the biggest weakness, with heavy lateral wear, and at $290 it's not worth it.

On Cloudboom Echo 3Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run – Ryan, Derek, Joost & Sam · 2 days ago

Smooth and efficient at 10K-to-marathon race pace and nimble like a racing flat. It helps hold turnover and is a huge step up from Echo 1. It needs roughly 8:10/mile or faster, the plate feels rigid near the heel, the price is top level, and one tester saw significant outsole wear by 45 mi.

On Cloudboom Echo 3Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Meaghan Murray, Robbe Reddinger & Ryan Haines · 2 days ago

Light years ahead of the hard-plated Echo 1 and 2: in mile repeats the shoe seemed to disappear, and it runs faster than its fairly heavy weight. One tester wouldn't pick it for a marathon, since the firm HF foam would thrash his legs, but it's great for 10K and under, maybe a half.

On Cloudboom Echo 3Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein & Andrea Myers · 2 days ago

A premium upper on a firmer super-shoe base that finally fixes the Echo's gaps. One of the best-fitting super shoes she has tested, highly responsive and most comfortable at 5K to threshold pace. Neither liked it as much at marathon pace, and the price stays high.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Blog · taka-run – taka · 2 days ago

A sharply focused shoe for intermediate and advanced forefoot runners: overwhelmingly light with spike-like ground feel and superb forefoot rebound. He planned to use it for regular speed work too, so he wished it were more durable. The thin upper looks fragile, and it's expensive and demanding of fitness.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Blog · Unattached Runner – Seiya Ishikawa · 2 days ago

Rated A: it feels more like a spike (a Dragonfly) than a shoe, and he could hold 1500 m race pace on the road, so he could replace spikes for some sessions. Very light, great on the track and for hard sessions. It runs slightly small and narrow, it's not for heel strikers, and the price rose about ¥6,000.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Blog · Runner's World UK – Rick Pearson · 2 days ago

Refreshing in a marathon-focused market: bold updates make it a true PB-breaker for 10K and under. Propulsive, true to size and comfortable out of the box. Its limited application makes it an extra super shoe rather than your only one.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run – Bryan & Ryan · 2 days ago

Five smiles from one tester: bespoke and epic at track-rep paces, where ZoomX and the plate give a smooth toe-off. It's more forgiving than spikes, with a phenomenally grippy outsole. Very specific and unversatile, harsher than most road shoes, for forefoot strikers only, and durability is likely limited.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Andrea Myers · 2 days ago

Performance graded A+: the best shoe she has tested for road mile races. Super light and highly responsive, with ground feel that lets you load the forefoot. Best for mile to 5K, or 10K with strong feet. Heel strikers may feel a negative drop, the upper is narrow and snug, and she sized up half a size.

New Balance SuperComp RebelPositive

Blog · Unattached Runner – Seiya Ishikawa · 2 days ago

A near-elite model he rates A+: speed close to the SC Elite v6 with equal rebound, strong propulsion and plenty of cushioning without hard foam. Good for long runs, threshold work, intervals and marathons from sub-3 to sub-4. The one downside is that it feels unstable for jogging.

New Balance SuperComp RebelPositive

Blog · Road Trail Run – Peter, Maya, Sam, Sally, Stephen & Adam · 2 days ago

More nimble, faster and more fun than the SC Trainer it replaces: it feels terrific at any pace and hums at marathon pace, and one tester questions his race-shoe choice. Grip was fine on slippery stone, but it's tippy on loose gravel. Testers agree the upper won't suit broad or high-volume feet.

New Balance SuperComp RebelPositive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein & team · 2 days ago

A light, responsive Infinion trainer with real pace versatility: a bouncy heel and early forefoot transition that feel solid on long runs, easy days, tempos and intervals. The tapered toe box, narrow fit and inconsistent sizing across testers need fixing. The forefoot is firmer.

Nike Vaporfly 4Positive

Blog · Tomo-Ran – Ranmaru · 3 days ago

Ultra light, with direct ground feel and strong midfoot rebound that is hard to stop once rolling. A record weapon up to the half. For him the full marathon was very taxing, it is narrow for wide feet, and it is overkill and pricey for jogging.

Nike Vaporfly 4Positive

Blog · Runner's World – Jeff Dengate, Thomas Hengge · 3 days ago

A snappy, versatile road racer: exceptionally fast for intervals and marathon-pace runs. The extra arch room helps high arches. On 15–16-mile workouts it firmed up and one tester wished for the Alphafly. Heel slip is listed as a con.

Nike Vaporfly 4Positive

Blog · Sub3 – Patrick Hayes · 3 days ago

After PB-ing from 5K to half in it, he raced Seville in it: five reasons to consider it for a marathon despite the usual caution. It works best for engaged forefoot or light midfoot strikers. Grip isn't as confidence-inspiring as the VF3, so a wet race would give him pause.

Brooks Hyperion 2Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – David Salas, Andrea Myers (DPTs) · 3 days ago

Rated B+/A-. An excellent lightweight performance trainer for warm-ups through fast paces, with good traction and a natural, ground-feel ride. One tester rates the fit A+. Another tester found the upper snug and low-volume, and it holds water in heat and humidity.

HOKA Rocket X 2Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Thomas Neuberger and team · 3 days ago

A real contender: the team was surprised to agree that it was their current top race-day pick among shoes readily available (the original Alphafly is still their favorite). Underfoot feel and energy return put it at the top.

HOKA Rocket X 2Positive

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 3 days ago

Now worthy of its name: much faster, softer and more speed-assisting than v1, and Hoka finally has a proper super shoe. He would race a full marathon in it. Relatively stable and fairly durable. The forked plate gives less propulsion, and it's heavier and far pricier than v1.

HOKA Rocket X 2Mixed

Blog · RunningGearLab – Justin Evenden · 3 days ago

Fast and enjoyable race shoe. True to size, with a fitted toe box and a secure, race-focused midfoot. The heel collar was his main problem: it rubbed near his Achilles and became painful on the first long, fast workout. Do a short test run before a long one.

HOKA Rocket X 2Positive

Blog · Hokkaido Delicam Run · 3 days ago

Ran 1:31:26 against a 1:35 goal: the soft cushion didn't fatigue his legs, and he picked up pace in the last 5 km. Good grip on damp, rainy roads, and the outsole was almost undamaged afterward. A great first carbon racer that rivals the Vaporfly and Adios Pro. Expensive at ¥35,200.

HOKA Rocket X 2Positive

Blog · One Day's Light – Kattsun · 3 days ago

Felt good at Kanazawa: plush cushion and a rebound that lengthened his stride, like the original Vaporfly. He'll race Kobe in it. Some instability on sharp turns and U-turns, and it slipped on wet early-race roads, so beware wet white lines and manholes.

HOKA Cielo X1 3.0Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein (DPT) · 3 days ago

B+. A super distance racer for 10K to marathon with an incredibly bouncy, fast-rolling, highly rockered ride and a secure fit. The narrow heel/midfoot base and soft dual PEBA make it wobbly, so it's best for runners with stable ankles. Tapered toe box.

adidas Adizero Prime X3 STRUNGNegative

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 3 days ago

Fun, with an extreme forefoot rocker, but not the update he hoped for. Softer, faster and more aggressive, yet still too heavy for racing, so the speed assistance is cancelled out. Not comfortable for long runs due to the foam and plate setup: not enough bounce and harsh transitions. Good traction.

HOKA Cielo X1 2.0Negative

Blog · Marathon Handbook – Alex Cyr · 3 days ago

Definitely not a world-beating super shoe, and not an easy-run shoe. The rocker propels you but forces you onto your toes, and it fits small (his toes were wrecked after a workout; size up). Too much shoe for him to race in, but a solid, aggressive workout tool.

HOKA Cielo X1 2.0Positive

Blog · RunToTheFinish – Jeff Ruane · 3 days ago

Comes alive when you pick up the pace: the rocker propels you forward and toe-offs feel effortless. The jacquard mesh dried within minutes after a snow-melt splash. The narrower heel and midfoot cost some of v1's stability, so it's not for wide feet, heavier runners or those with stability needs.

ASICS Metaspeed Edge TokyoPositive

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 3 days ago

A brilliant update and now a top-tier racer he'd use for a marathon. Softer and more energetic, with a wider midfoot and a better upper. Far more stable than the Fast-R 3, Adios Pro 4 and Sky Tokyo. The ungusseted tongue folds, the price jumped, and it's still narrow for flat arches.

On Cloudboom StrikePositive

Blog · The Running Club – Paolo Corsini · 3 days ago

Score 7.45. A true super racer and the missing piece in On's range. The thick insole/midsole gives high forefoot protection without losing reactivity. It suits a push-off, forefoot style and needs good running mechanics. The thin outsole rubber will likely wear first.

On Cloudboom StrikePositive

Blog · Doctors of Running – David Salas, Nathan Chiang, Andrea Myers · 3 days ago

A-/B+/A-. On's bounciest super shoe. One tester nearly made it his racer of the year except for the heel. Another tester loved it for a 10K but not longer. A third tester gave it an A for the bouncy, propulsive ride she'd missed since the Alphafly 1.

On Cloudboom StrikePositive

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 3 days ago

Much better than the Echo 3: deeper cushion, more energy return and a fun, engaging ride. It suits forefoot strikers; for him, a heel striker, it lacked a forefoot rocker and wasn't efficient enough for a marathon. Runs half a size big, poor wet grip, overpriced at $280.

On Cloudboom StrikeMixed

Blog · Believe in the Run – Thomas Neuberger · 3 days ago

On's best race shoe yet: light (<8 oz), with Helion HF cushion right under the forefoot and grippy rubber. Sizing ran long by up to a full size, and the stiff heel collar dug into one tester's Achilles, leaving it unrunnable two days later. Wear crew socks. A Vaporfly 3 costs $100 less.

HOKA Rocket X 3Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Thomas Neuberger, Meaghan Murray · 3 days ago

A solid race-day shoe for anyone chasing a marathon goal, not just elites, favoring heel strikers. Grips well and looks solid at 40 mi. One tester prefers the Cielo X1 2.0 but would race it without hesitation, and plans to at the JFK 50.

HOKA Rocket X 3Mixed

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein, Andrea Myers (DPTs) · 3 days ago

One tester (A-) has made it his go-to for fast and fast-long efforts, though durability is already in question at 30 mi. Another tester (C-) got posterior tibialis and ankle pain from the medial stability features and won't run in it again.

ASICS Metaspeed Sky ParisPositive

Blog · Meta Endurance – Maxime Gourmelen, Andy Wright · 3 days ago

'Love at first run': paces come easy and legs take less pounding. One tester has made it his go-to workout shoe for months, praising the light, bouncy ride, comfortable upper and effortless toe-off. Not as aggressive as some rivals. Only cosmetic scuffing at 160 km.

adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 11Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein (DPT) · 3 days ago

A- overall: a bouncy, softer, snappy racer for intervals, tempos and mile-to-10K (up to half for faster runners). Fantastic outsole durability, and an amazing $180 price that rivals shoes costing $80 more. The first in the line to impress him in a while. Slight heel slippage.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4Positive

Blog · Runner’s World UK – Ali Ball, Rachel Boswell · 3 days ago

Light and faster than ever, a brilliant choice for extremely fast, lightweight racing. One tester finds it aggressive, needing a lot of power from the front, and will save it for speed sessions and shorter races. Another tester compares it favourably to the Fast-R 3.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Andrea Myers, Matt Klein (DPTs) · 3 days ago

A- overall. One tester: a fast ride from uptempo to 5K pace that he plans to race in. Another tester: great fit, and good value for a super shoe at $250. But the forefoot doesn't suit her midfoot strike, and the narrow rear platform may trouble some. Best for rearfoot strikers.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5Positive

Blog · T3 – Kieran Alger · 3 days ago

A really good, consistent performer with smooth, efficient energy return that still protects when you're struggling, which he leaned on when his race went wrong. Not the punchiest carbon shoe (the Metaspeed Edge and Fast-R3 have more bite), but more accommodating for a wider range of runners.

ASICS Magic Speed 4Positive

Blog · Doctors of Running – Matt Klein, David Salas (DPTs) · 3 days ago

B+/A- and A-: an extremely durable, well-priced carbon workout trainer for uptempo work and long runs that saves your race shoes. One tester is disappointed by the weight gain and says it's too stiff for easy runs and not stable enough for long efforts. Another tester wants smoother easy-pace transitions.

ASICS Magic Speed 4Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run – Robbe Reddinger, Thomas Neuberger, Ryan Haines · 3 days ago

The best version yet, edging from a tempo shoe toward a super trainer. A great budget racer or versatile tempo shoe and a first step into carbon plates. One tester disliked the upper. Less versatile than the Superblast.

adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10Positive

Blog · Running Shoes Guru – Brandon Law · 3 days ago

A specialist tool for efficient runners: high ground feel and a faster, more aggressive ride than v8, with stiffer rods and a more durable outsole. Too firm and harsh beyond ~15 km, and he thinks racers in it are at a disadvantage against super shoes. He keeps it for workouts and hill sprints.

adidas Adizero Adios 9Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run – Nils Scharff · 3 days ago

A classic low-cushion racing flat with super-shoe tech, 'close to perfection' for tempo and intervals: an outrageously comfortable upper, an energetic flexible midsole and strong grip. Versatility is limited by the minimal design, and he now needs a half size up.

Nike Alphafly 3Positive

Blog · Believe in the Run · 3 days ago

'The Return of the King.' Comfortable, light, fast and bouncy, everything a race-day shoe should be. One tester puts it as 'this shoe and the rest'. Another also likes rivals but rates it uniquely. The previous version had twisted one tester's knee; this one fixes the platform.

Nike Alphafly 3Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run · 3 days ago

Testers praise the 24g weight drop, terrific upper, smoothest transition yet in the line and strong energy return. Cons: the Zoom Air pods feel mechanical, it may not suit those wanting an aggressive racer, and the laces do all the lockdown. One tester got arch rubbing at ~16 miles.

Nike Alphafly 3Mixed

Blog · Doctors of Running – Andrea Myers, David Salas (DPTs) · 3 days ago

One tester: his favourite in the line and the shoe he grabs to run fastest, though the midfoot ZoomX slides. Another: best at 5K-half pace and sluggish at marathon pace. The short, low toe box bruised her big toenails, and the foam wears early.

Nike Vaporfly 3Positive

Blog · Runner’s World – Jeff Dengate · 3 days ago

Jeff Dengate found it as lively as before and more stable through sharp turns. It is quieter than the VF2 and responded when he surged after 20 miles, though the Flyknit upper does not stretch and the top of his foot was hurting late in the marathon.

Nike Vaporfly 3Positive

Blog · Find My Footwear – Kieran Alger · 3 days ago

Kieran Alger found it softer, more forgiving and more stable than earlier Vaporflys, which helps late in marathons, though it lost some of the direct raciness he loved and he would still race in a VF2. The upper is loose and lets water in, and the cutouts catch stones.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4Positive

Blog · Men’s Health — Brett Williams · 3 days ago

Brett Williams found it flat on a slow 10-miler, but on race day it delivered smooth turnover and helped him negative-split the last miles of his strongest marathon. He had no blisters or hotspots over 26.2 miles and found it stable through water stations and corners; it works best around 8:00 per mile or faster.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4Positive

Blog · Road Trail Run — Michael Ellenberger, Ryan Eiler, Sam Winebaum · 3 days ago

A softer, bouncier, more controllable ride with an excellent, more comfortable upper. Called a top-5 racer despite heel blisters; one tester felt it lost some stability and snappy turnover; another felt the soft heel slowed the transition. Scores 9.4-9.6.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3Positive

Blog · Gearist — Brandon Wood · 3 days ago

Brandon Wood found it poppy, fun and fast—“made me want to go”—while returning from a car crash. It took about 10 miles to break in, and the rods felt stable rather than intrusive. Grip was great on dry pavement but poor in snow; lacing and heel fit are tricky, and the mesh is scratchy.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3Positive

Blog · Coach — Nick Harris-Fry · 3 days ago

Nick Harris-Fry found it stiff and unnatural at pace on the first run, but it improved after breaking in. A 15-miler felt smooth and bouncy with no forefoot pain. It is more stable and comfortable than the Pro 2 and a top marathon option, though less speedy for short races and pricier.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3Positive

Blog · The Running Club — Paolo Corsini · 3 days ago

Paolo Corsini says it remains very fast and responsive after 400+ km. The rods and Lightstrike Pro continued to support him beyond km 30–35 of a marathon, with less fatigue than in the Vaporfly Next% 2. The basic laces and unpadded tongue are fiddly, and the heel-strike rubber wore through.

ASICS MegablastPositive

Blog · Supwell — Meredith Johnston · 3 days ago

Meredith Johnston calls it her favorite shoe right now: fun and light, versatile for long, easy, tempo and doubles. The foam felt softer with daily use but firmed again after resting, and grip was good in rain. The upper is the weak point, with lace bite and a stiff toe piece that improved after break-in.

ASICS MegablastPositive

Blog · Gritty Runners — Paulo Quindere Saraiva · 3 days ago

Paulo Quindere Saraiva says it feels almost unchanged after 400 miles, following a roughly 40-mile break-in: cushioning, energy return and stability held up, with minimal outsole wear and good wet-deck grip. The less-plush upper and slightly shallow toe box are the weak points; it suits easy, long and tempo runs more than true recovery runs.

ASICS MegablastPositive

Blog · Road Trail Run — Stephen Mirarchi · 3 days ago

Stephen Mirarchi reports that at 250 miles the upper is unfazed, the outsole looks better than some racers at 50 miles, and the foam retains its rebound, though it is slightly less bouncy than during the first 150 miles. It is too much shoe for hard uptempo work but great for long runs and downhills; the low toe box caused mild big-toe pressure.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 2Positive

RunningRecs · Gary · 6 days ago

My wife made fun of me when she saw these, especially the weird split in the middle. But honestly they're really fun to run in. They feel a bit awkward and stiff when I'm just walking around, but once I start running they feel completely different, almost like they're pushing me forward. Grip is surprisingly good too, even on wet pavement. Only annoying thing is the tongue, it's really thin and keeps folding when I put them on.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3Positive

RunningRecs · Kenji · 11 days ago

About 250 km in it, two half marathons plus my track sessions. Lightest shoe I've owned and the bounce at 10k pace is something else. Ran 1:21 for a half, almost two minutes off my PR. At easy pace it feels clumsy so I don't warm up in it. Calves were wrecked for two days after each race. Midfoot is snug and the thin tongue folds over if you're not careful lacing up. The outsole has small dents from gravel but nothing is wearing through yet.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 2Mixed

RunningRecs · Fiona R. · 11 days ago

Bought these for a spring half and used them for tempo runs and track sessions before that. Somewhere around 180 km on them now. The foam is properly bouncy, at 4:10/km pace they feel fun and quick and I ran a PB in them. Outsole grip on wet roads has been fine and it's barely worn. But they're heavy for a racer, you notice it next to other carbon shoes. The upper is tight, I went half a size up and they're still snug across the top of my foot. The heel tab rubbed my Achilles until I wore higher socks. And the extended plate at the toe keeps you pushing off the front of the foot, so by the end of a 25 km marathon pace run my calves were done. For a marathon I'd pick something else.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5Mixed

YouTube · The Run Testers · 12 days ago

Close to 100 km, including two marathons (one raced in Berlin) plus faster training runs. They found a soft, poppy but controlled ride that stayed protective and efficient late in both marathons, a snug true-to-size fit, and good grip and breathability in wet and warmer weather. The heel collar has little padding and caused early blistering and cutting on the first marathon until plasters and thicker socks fixed it, the toe box is narrow, and midsole wear is a known worry, though their pair stayed intact. Suits a wide range of runners more than all-out speed chasers.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 2Positive

YouTube · AB-running · 33 days ago

About 170 miles, including 6:00-pace tempo runs, steady road runs and races from the mile to 5K. They found the soft foam very bouncy and fast, with a light, breathable upper and a hard-wearing outsole. They disliked the wobbly feel at slower paces, the narrow toe box and loose heel, and noted the exposed foam is wearing away at toe-off. They think it suits runners with stable mechanics, best at faster paces.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5Positive

YouTube · Alex Rosen · 46 days ago

About 80 miles across easy runs, 400s and race-pace work. They enjoy the feel at race pace and longer distances and plan to race a marathon in a half size up, since their usual size fit short. The exposed energy rim cut their ankle when they clipped it with the other shoe, and while their outsole showed no real wear, they say anyone worried about the exposed-foam degradation others report should pick a different shoe.

ASICS MegablastPositive

YouTube · The FOD Runner · 128 days ago

Now used for nearly all easy runs after 300 miles, including 10-12 mile days. They praise the firm, responsive foam, the grip and how little the midsole and outsole have worn, but found the toe box shallow enough to cut a slit in it and call the upper a weak point. They found it too big and cumbersome for speed work or marathon effort and think the 210 pound price is too high.

Nike Alphafly 3Mixed

YouTube · Runnertia · 131 days ago

With about 100 miles in the shoe, including a 20-mile long run and a marathon-length run, it proved very stable for a carbon racer, with a great upper and little change in feel at 100 miles. They dislike the crunchy, plasticky feel of the air pods, weak grip on a damp track, visible midsole and outsole wear, and a slightly heavy, dated foam. It suits long runs but does not stand out.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4Mixed

YouTube · Daniel Käse · 174 days ago

About 20 miles on neighbourhood roads and sidewalks: an interval day, easy runs and strides. They found it extremely comfortable, with a wide but not too wide toe box, a secure heel lock and a very breathable upper, plus a heel firm enough to roll through nicely. Against that, the carbon plate felt like a marble-sized pebble in the left forefoot at times (they were unsure if it was a one-off defect), and the outsole wore noticeably fast for just 20 miles, which they call a major concern at $250. They would still race a marathon in it.

Nike Streakfly 2Positive

Reddit · r/trailrunning · 198 days ago

They fitted a Vibram outsole to the Streakfly 2 for steep mountain running and found it feels good with little noticeable stiffness. They say it feels far more responsive than a traditional mountain flat and the plate still gives some return when climbing.

adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 11Mixed

YouTube · EDDBUD · 218 days ago

About 100 km, mostly medium sessions at tempo to half-marathon effort. The fit is very narrow and glove-like, hard to get on and fiddly to lace, the heel stitching has started to fray and the outsole has slightly separated at the inner heel. The ride is firm and rigid, fine at those paces but harsh slower and past about 9 miles, though grip is excellent. They see it suiting lighter, quick runners, with too little cushion and width for heavier or wider-footed ones.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4Positive

YouTube · Alastair Running · 225 days ago

Used on pavement, including wet sections, and for longer distances. They found the ride cushioned yet responsive, the lockdown excellent and the grip and durability good. Downsides are a stiff feel that needs speed, a short tongue that puts pressure on the front of the foot on longer runs, and an upper that is not very breathable. Best for forefoot and midfoot runners pushing the pace.

adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 11Negative

YouTube · jogoncrago · 272 days ago

Three interval sessions totalling 19 km, from 200 m and 400 m repeats to split 800s. It only felt smooth near 5K effort, and the firm foam and stiff rod network made it harsh, with very sore legs for two days afterwards. At about 203 g in a men's 10.5 it felt heavy for a shoe meant to be nimble, and they benched it after three runs.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4Positive

YouTube · The Run Testers · 275 days ago

Three testers: one near 60 km (marathon-pace reps, tempo, hill reps), one around 40 km including a two-hour mixed-pace run, one on parkruns and tempo runs. They found it very light, lively and natural, comfortable out of the box and decent at slower paces, with reliable grip even on wet London streets. Downsides: a narrow platform with some race-shoe wobble, a little heel movement for one tester, and rear rubber that ripped after about 2 km for another (a third saw no wear there). It suits runners wanting a fast but approachable half or full marathon shoe.

ASICS MegablastMixed

Reddit · r/RunningShoeGeeks · 278 days ago

A 45-65 mpw midfoot striker at 600 km finds the Megablast one of their most versatile shoes, grippy, stable on turns and light with great energy return and little outsole wear, but the low-volume tapered toe box left bleeding toes on a 38 km run, so they keep it under 25 km.

On Cloudboom StrikePositive

YouTube · Dave Stoff · 294 days ago

Worn for most of their workouts, at nearly all paces, and it felt comfortable and smooth. The thick foam insole makes the forefoot very bouncy, which suits 5K up to the half marathon; they are unsure about the end of a full marathon and think heel strikers will get less from it. Heel lockdown is weak, with some slipping and a worry about rubbing, and the very long laces came undone twice despite a double knot. The toe box is roomy and the outsole grips well.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · Yowana · 299 days ago

About 200 miles across three pairs, including a rainy 20-mile long run with marathon-pace reps in the pair that reached 100 miles, plus two marathons and a half-marathon PR. They love the bounce and how easily it puts them on the forefoot, call it the best sub-3 marathon racer, and found 100-mile wear fairly good. Downsides: it feels choppy and tiring at easy paces, is not a comfortable training shoe, and only feels good when run fast.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4Positive

YouTube · Believe in the Run · 309 days ago

Two testers, including a 10-mile uptempo run for one of them. They liked how light it feels, the soft, bouncy foam with a noticeable pop from the plate, and a minimal, very breathable upper with a secure heel that suited both a wider and a narrow foot. One slipped a little on a cold, frosty run, though the other put that down to the ice rather than the shoe and had no grip issues in dry conditions. They call it a solid race-day option, including for the marathon.

ASICS MegablastPositive

YouTube · EDDBUD · 352 days ago

Close to 100 miles in the shoe on paths, pavement, road and gravel, including wet and icy weather. They find the foam bouncy and usable from the first run, lighter and livelier than the Superblast 2, a jack of all trades that suits long runs, with no outsole wear or slipping. The upper is thin and flexible, the thin tongue can press if laced too tightly, and they suggest trying half a size down. They would not race short distances in it and are frustrated by poor availability.

ASICS Metaspeed Edge TokyoPositive

YouTube · Doctors of Running · 359 days ago

100 miles on the road across long runs, tempo work and track sessions. The snug, harsh upper caused blisters when worn with socks that had holes, and the foam felt firm and unstable at first, but after 40-50 miles it became much bouncier and rolled forward well at tempo and faster paces. Very light with a barely worn outsole, though it is unstable on turns and gets harsher over longer distances, so they would cap it at a half marathon.

HOKA Rocket X 3Mixed

YouTube · kofuzi · 372 days ago

A long run with a big block of marathon-effort miles, plus threshold mile repeats. At marathon pace and slower they felt the shoe pushing them toward a heel strike that doesn't suit how they run, so they kept fighting it; it only got interesting when turning over faster. The airy warp-knit upper holds the foot well, but the fit runs a bit narrow and short and the tongue feels floppy, though it never became a problem. They see it as best for heel strikers wanting stability.

adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 11Positive

YouTube · Runnertia · 373 days ago

About 100 miles, covering daily runs up to 16 miles, a hilly 13-miler and some track workouts. They call it a do-it-all shoe that handles easy days, tempo and fast running without being the best at any of them. The wide platform feels very stable at speed, though it is not especially lively on the track, and the laces are the one thing they would change.

ASICS MegablastMixed

YouTube · Jason Jogs · 378 days ago

A heavier runner (over 200 lb) with 100 miles in the shoe, including a couple of 20-mile runs. They find the outsole the most durable of their ASICS pairs, though traction is only middle of the pack, and the cushioning very good, a little firmer and bouncier than a Nike Vomero Plus. Stability is only decent and the foam feels less responsive at the end of long runs. Their main complaint is a rigid, plasticky upper that pinches their left toe box without causing blisters, and they do not think it is worth $225 for the average runner.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · The FOD Runner · 406 days ago

About 200 miles, first racing it with personal bests at every distance, then mostly training including a 6x2K workout. The upper kept its lockdown and only discolored, midsole wear felt minimal with the foam still squishy and springy, and grip held up. They noted small chewed spots on the exposed foam from stones, which they call negligible, and a loud crack when gravel hits the plate. They found the plate gentle on calves and Achilles and plan to keep using it.

ASICS Metaspeed Edge TokyoPositive

YouTube · The Run Testers · 411 days ago

Three testers, with mileage from about 25 miles up to roughly 100 km, covering track reps, tempo runs and a fast 20-miler. Very light, springy and energetic, easy to hold paces in, with a breathable, true-to-size upper and good grip. The laces take effort to lock down, one found the forefoot slappy, and it is still unstable for many, so it suits race days and race-pace sessions rather than everyday training.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 2Positive

YouTube · EDDBUD · 416 days ago

About 90 miles over several months, including summer runs and steady 8-minute-mile efforts. They found it one of the softest, most compressive shoes they own, lowering heart rate by 5 to 6 beats per minute and leaving the legs feeling great the next days, with no durability problems. The stock laces were too stretchy, and it is too squashy for heel strikers, anyone with ankle or knee issues, or 5K and 10K racing. It suits neutral mid or forefoot strikers wanting maximum impact protection.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · jogoncrago · 440 days ago

About 50 km of running, including a 12K race, in a true-to-size pair. They found it explosive and efficient, best from half-marathon pace and faster, with a breathable stripped-down upper and a snug, narrow fit that runs long in the toe. It is fast rather than comfortable, dictates the stride, has only average stability (better for forefoot strikers), and the outsole showed slight fraying by 50 km.

ASICS Metaspeed Edge TokyoMixed

YouTube · Chris Runs Around · 452 days ago

Three workouts (threshold and VO2max) with 5 km warm-ups and cool-downs. Comfortable enough to jog in, very light, with a soft upper that is kind to toenails, and legs recovered well the next day. The toe box and arch are narrow, which meant going up a size and still getting some rubbing at the side of the toes, and it felt the least stable on turns and wet surfaces. They doubt the thin outsole's durability and are unsure about trusting it for a full marathon.

HOKA Rocket X 3Positive

YouTube · Marathon Handbook · 452 days ago

One modified track workout, then threshold work and easy runs since. They found it comfortable across many paces, from easy running to threshold, without forcing them onto their toes or back onto their heel, and liked the light, breathable upper. The toe box is narrow and shortens near the end, so they would size up half a size, and $250 felt hefty for a shoe that works more as a comfortable workout shoe than an all-out racer.

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4Positive

YouTube · Bertram · 459 days ago

About 100 miles outdoors, including dirt, and on the treadmill, with little wear and no grip problems. They found the ride bouncy, plush and lively, with a very wide upper, and rate it well for bigger runners (they are 6'6" and 215 lb) and anyone slower than a 3:30 marathon. Downsides are the weight (about 9 oz in a size 13), heel hot spots that can cause blisters but eased with use, and a very small tongue.

ASICS Magic Speed 4Positive

YouTube · Jack Runs · 461 days ago

Just over 200 km through a marathon build, covering tempo runs, interval-style quality sessions and the occasional easy 10 to 14 km. They found it close to a race-day feel but more comfortable and less aggressive, with the tall stack leaving their legs fresher, a stable foam, a noticeable but not extreme plate, a true-to-size fit with no hot spots and room for a full-length orthotic. They expect 600 to 800 km of life and recommend it for first-time carbon-plate users and as a dedicated workout shoe.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 2Mixed

YouTube · Doctors of Running · 466 days ago

About 100 miles, covering threshold sessions, second workouts and some easy runs. They found the full-length foam the softest they have run in, and it firmed up slightly and felt more responsive over time; the outsole also lasted better than expected. It is unstable, though: it demands strong hips and ankles, the toe box is snug, and long runs brought chafing and tired hips. They would not race in it and see it for stable runners wanting maximum softness on longer efforts.

adidas Adizero Adios 9Positive

YouTube · The FOD Runner · 506 days ago

About 106 miles across a 5K training block and early marathon base work: fast sessions, hill repeats and runs up to 13 miles, at a body weight of around 200 lb. They found it excellent for fast workouts and hills, with the upper, foam and outsole all holding up well and little break-in needed. Complaints are a very short tongue, flimsy-feeling laces and plenty of ground feel from the low stack. Suits speed and hill work and copes with longer runs, though they expect to use it less for the longest ones.

adidas Adizero Adios 9Mixed

YouTube · Road To Trail · 534 days ago

About 100 km in two and a half months, a low total because the shoe was hard to fit into their routine. They love how light and fast it feels and call the upper and fit perfect, but two runs of over an hour both left slight plantar fascia irritation, and the low stack felt punishing on tired legs. Best when fresh, a niche speed shoe rather than a daily trainer, and not one they would urge anyone to rush out and buy.

adidas Adizero Adios 9Mixed

Reddit · r/RunningShoeGeeks · 550 days ago

After 100 miles of runs up to 10 miles, workouts and strides: soft, springy, very light and as close to a perfect trainer as they've found, with no outsole wear. The catch is serious heel blistering unless they wear thick socks, and it may lack protection for long distances.

PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · The Run Testers · 556 days ago

Between them, the two testers ran roughly 80 to 100 km, including the London Marathon, a fast 10-miler, a parkrun 5K and track work. They found it light, snappy and springy at marathon pace and faster, with a breathable upper that coped with heat and rain and a snug, narrow fit that runs long. Downsides: high price, middling durability, little stability, an unnatural-feeling rocker, and less enjoyment on 400m reps. It suits fast runners, not slower marathoners.

HOKA Cielo X1 2.0Mixed

YouTube · Yowana · 614 days ago

Fifty miles in, including a 20-mile long run with eight miles at marathon pace, which they hit but only with a lot of effort. The upper fit and foam comfort are excellent, but the aggressive rocker forces a midfoot or forefoot landing, the midsole feels mushy and fights a powerful midfoot stride, and stability is only so-so. They rate it about 6 to 6.5 out of 10, with laces that came untied once, and see it suiting light-touch forefoot runners only.

ASICS Magic Speed 4Negative

YouTube · jogoncrago · 635 days ago

About 70 km over four weeks of daily runs, tempo work, marathon-pace efforts and strides. They found the ride stiff, dense and clunky at easy paces, decent at marathon and tempo pace, and bulky with little response towards 10K speed, since the forefoot foam insert is tiny and it rides like a plain EVA shoe. The upper is true to size, secure and breathable with no blisters, and the outsole has held up well so far. Overall not a favourite, though they see it suiting those after a firm, rigid first racing shoe.

On Cloudboom StrikePositive

YouTube · Doctors of Running · 641 days ago

100 miles in the shoe, including tempo runs, longer intervals and a 2K time trial. The bouncy midsole did not change over that distance and the outsole was only just starting to wear through. It is stiff with plenty of forefoot cushioning and works best from 10K upward. The narrow heel meant it was not quite stable enough for them past about 10 miles, so it suits neutral mechanics best, and low socks let the heel collar dig in.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · kofuzi · 656 days ago

About 115 miles of fast sessions from 200 m repeats to marathon effort, plus a half marathon race. They like the light, snug upper that does not pinch, and the foam that absorbs shock without being too squishy and bounces back quickly, giving snappy turnover. At that mileage the foam still felt great and the upper looked pristine apart from slight tongue fraying, though the outsole showed normal wear and scuffing on exposed foam. They would race in it up to the marathon.

adidas Adizero Adios 9Positive

YouTube · Sagasu Running · 675 days ago

About 45 km (28 miles) of speed sessions, easy 10-12 km runs and hills. They praise the flexible, light, slipper-like feel, the soft stretchy upper with padded heel, excellent grip on wet and dry surfaces and the lively foam. They found it best for short fast reps and easy running, but the laces are poor, a sensitive arch may notice the midfoot shank, and how long the foam lasts is still unknown.

PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 3Positive

YouTube · EDDBUD · 697 days ago

About 100 miles of training and racing. They found the thin, conforming upper comfortable and the soft, forgiving foam still lively with very little breakdown, and the outsole gripped well on road and even on wet or muddy patches. The fit is narrow, so they do not recommend it for wider feet, and the soft foam is not very stable at the heel, which could trouble runners who pronate. They favor it for races up to the half marathon, finding the heel a little narrow for a marathon.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4Positive

YouTube · Sagasu Running · 699 days ago

About 53 km (33 miles) covered in workouts, easy runs and a 10-mile long run. They praised the very soft, bouncy foam, the comfortable locked-in upper and an outsole with no wear yet, and found marathon pace easy to hold. They say it is not very stable and demands strong feet, that overpronators should avoid it, and that heel and midfoot strikers may find it a mixed bag. They expect less long-term durability than the Pro 3.

On Cloudboom StrikeMixed

YouTube · jogoncrago · 702 days ago

Over 100 km, including a marathon attempt and 800 m reps. The ride is the draw: a booming, bouncy forefoot that feels best at half and full marathon pace, though it is less nimble for short fast reps. The rest disappoints: the heel counter caused repeated Achilles blisters until they cut slits into it, the forefoot is baggy and the fit about half a size long, the laces are far too long, and the outsole slips badly on anything damp.

Nike Alphafly 3Mixed

YouTube · Steven Neeson · 705 days ago

After several months in the shoe, including two half marathons, they first disliked it because it hurt their arch and took many miles to get used to. They later found it comfortable, breathable and fast, but more aggressive than expected and not as comfortable late in a race as their Alphafly 1, so they prefer it for 10K and half marathon. They also report stones lodging in the outsole and faster wear than an older Alphafly 1 pair.