I was so excited to try the 361 Degrees Eleos. I only first heard of it a few weeks before the release. The Eleos is a broad platform, relatively low stack height daily trainer. With the Eleos, 361 has created an EVA/PEBA blend midsole foam called Primo. Plus, it’s actually surprising this trainer is “only” $145. Before trying the 361 Degrees Eleos, I had a few questions:
- What is the 361 Degrees Eleos made for? It’s designed for daily runs and can really handle most types of runs from easy to tempos and workouts.
- Does the 361 Degrees Eleos fit true to size? Yes, and maybe a bit on the wider side! I haven’t had any issues with rubbing or irritation.
361 Degrees Eleos Quick Facts
- Weight: Men’s 9.9 oz
- Drop: 6mm drop
- Price: $145
361 Degrees Eleos Fit
The Eleos stands out with a sleek and streamlined look, distinct from the often high max cushion trainers. The thin, foot-conforming mesh upper is comfortable. I appreciate that the 361 Degrees Eleos looks like a regular shoe and not some super running shoe. The mesh is thin and breathable, and I haven’t had any issues with it while running in the Mojave desert summer. (The last thing I need is for my feet to overheat).
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and I’ve found the 361 Degrees Eleos to do just that. If you have a wider foot, you may appreciate the shoe because it does fit on the wider side without being a wide.
As far as fit, I generally wear between a size 10-11 wide, and I’ve found the size 11 to fit perfectly. I don’t have any issues with irritation or rubbing.
361 Degrees Eleos Ride
The magic of the Eleos lies in its Primo foam midsole, a blend of EVA and PEBA. This foam provides a noticeably energetic rebound, avoiding the mushy feel of softer foams. The relatively low stack height and broad platform contribute to a stable, smooth ride. It is definitely on the softer side compared to other trainers.
Primo foam is energetic and quick to rebound, making it not mushy or energy-sapping. The broad and flared platform keeps the ride stable, especially at the forefoot. The mild rocker and some flex ensure smooth transitions. I appreciate the shoe feels fast without having a carbon plate or being a super high/max stack height shoe. It’s just a fast daily trainer. Back in my day, there were a few of these trainers, but now it is challenging to find a trainer that doesn’t have a carbon plate or super high stack height.
My first run in the Eleos, I was surprised with how soft it was. Not in a bad way, I just haven’t been used to super soft shoes in a world of carbon plated footwear. Even though it’s soft, it can respond well to faster paces and you don’t feel like you’re running in a pile of mush. After a few runs, I determined I really like the ride and it’s a lot of fun.
Where does the 361 Degrees Eleos fit into my rotation? This midsole is versatile, performing well on various surfaces and speeds. I’ve taken it out for easy runs, daily runs, recovery, and faster workouts. It’s a great daily trainer for me, when I’m feeling faster than average or might want to pick up the pace.
Outsole
The Eleos features a strategic and effective outsole with high abrasion rubber in the rear and enough rubber coverage to ensure durability. Traction is excellent across various surfaces. I use mine a lot on the sandy trails in the desert with no issues. I expect the Eleos to last around 400 miles. I already have about 100 miles on mine with no signs of it slowing down.
361 Degrees Eleos Conclusion
If you’re looking for a running shoe that can handle most types of paces, consider the 361 Degrees Eleos. It’s got a fun ride that is great for almost any type of run.
Who Should Buy the 361 Degrees Eleos?
The Eleos is perfect for runners seeking a high stack shoe with a fun, comfortable, and responsive midsole. It’s suitable for most daily runs. The shoe performs well on flat or rolling terrain, offering a smooth ride.
Who Should Not Buy the 361 Degrees Eleos?
Runners looking for a shoe specifically for speed or interval training might find the broad platform affects its suitability for faster paces. Consider the 361 Furious Future 1.5, one of my favorite workout shoes.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
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:
What is your favorite daily trainer?
Have you tried 361 Degrees?