I’ve been so excited for the Atreyu Base Model v2 to come out. Last summer, I ran in the first version. The first version of any shoe can be rough, let alone a brand new running shoe brand. That was not the case with Atreyu, and they wildly impressed me. I felt like they filled a void where running shoes lacked…the lightweight trainer.
Lightweight trainers like the Saucony Kinvara have been around for years, but they are slowly going away in favor of carbon-plated workout shoes. Sometimes you don’t want all of that! Sometimes you want an inexpensive under $100 trainer, and the Atreyu Base Model v2 is just that.
Between reviewing the first version and now, I met one of the Atreyu owners, Mike, at the Believe in the Run event in Baltimore in July 2021. My experiences with the Atreyu owners have always been positive. In fact, I dare say one of the most positive of any brand. It’s easy to support a good product with even better people.
Atreyu Base Model v2 Quick Facts:
Weight: 6 oz
Drop: 6 mm
Cost: $85
Atreyu Base Model v2 introduction:
The second model of the Atreyu Base model is slightly heavier. Atreyu decided to add a TPU sock liner instead of the EVA…slightly being a couple of ounces. Other than that, the Base Model v2 stays true to its roots and exactly what you want in a simple and inexpensive running shoe. It’s lightweight and even more responsive than the first version.
Atreyu Base Model v2 Fit:
The upper of the Base Model v2 is now a thin mesh with some additional structure. The first version had a few thin overlays which wrapped against the midfoot and extended into the collar. They also added an internal heel underlay which adds more padding. There is no plastic heel counter that keeps the Atreyu Base Model v2 even lighter.
The best uppers of running shoes are unnoticed when you’re running. You don’t feel like anything is bothering you and the Atreyu Base Model v2 does just that. You will find the upper less plush than many running shoes, but it’s also half of the cost.
In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide. I found the size 10.5 to fit well, the same size I wore in the original Base Model.
Atreyu Base Model v2 Ride:
The Atreyu Base Model v2 is an extremely lightweight shoe. If you’re someone who loves light shoes but know you can’t get away with a Nike free, this will be a good option.
To get technical, the midsole of the Atreyu Base Model v2 has been updated to now be a chemically modified EVA processed with CO2. Ok, who cares? This makes the Base Model v2 more energetic and responsive than the original version. It’s softer but not too mushy.
Like the original version, the midsole is the outsole, and there is no blown rubber. The blown rubber adds durability as well as traction. I’ve run about 50 miles in the Base Model v2, and they are holding strong. While I don’t think I’ll get 400+ miles out of them, I’ll probably get at least 300, and I can’t really complain about the price.
Many people might find the Atreyu Base Model v2 their “perfect trainer” because it is so light and without a carbon plate. If you are a fan of lighter and no-frill types of shoes, it’s a great option! For me, it’s a fairly ideal speed work shoe. I prefer something with more cushion on an easy day,s but it’s perfect when I want to run fast, like a tempo or daily run. It could even be your race shoe for a marathon.
Atreyu Base Model v2 Conclusion:
The Base Model v2 is a great option and I think it fills a void of the once “less than $100 trainer”. If you are looking for a lightweight shoe you can run fast in, I highly suggest it. Plus the owners are great. So great people, great product, not inexpensive. I really don’t have anything negative to say.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Brooks Aurora, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Hoka Bondi 7, Brooks Levitate 5
Speed Work: Atreyu Base Model v2, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, New Balance Fuelcell TC Shoe Review, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,
Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge, Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3
Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 11, North Face Flight VECTIV
Races: Asics Metaspeed Sky,Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro,New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the Atreyu Base Model v2?
What is your favorite speed work shoe?