I was excited to try the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer. Like many Newton fans, I’ve been eagerly awaiting their carbon-plated shoe! This brand-new shoe features a combination of PEBA midsole, carbon plate, and Newton’s Action Reaction Technology. This shoe introduces Newton’s latest foam, Newtonium-P, and boasts a certified vegan and sustainably constructed design. It’s their fastest shoe yet! Before trying the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer, I had a few questions:
- Is the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer fast? The answer is that it’s the fastest Newton shoe available. It’s definitely fast.
- Does the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer fit true to size? If you’ve worn Newtons before, it fits similarly to their other models, although it does fit slightly narrower. If you’ve never worn Newtons before, it fits on the more narrow side.
Newton CF1 Carbon Racer Quick Facts:
- Price: $230
- Weight: 8.5 oz
- Drop: 4 mm
Newton CF1 Carbon Racer Upper:
The CF1 Carbon Racer fits true to size. The overall fit is slightly narrower compared to other Newton models, with normal to slightly lower volume. The upper has a mild stretch, providing a snug fit, particularly in the forefoot, which features a tapered toe box.
The midfoot and heel also offer a snug fit, with a thin, gusseted tongue and moderately stiff counter in the rearfoot. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and for the most part, the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer does just that. I haven’t had any issues with the fit.
In running shoes, I typically wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide. I’ve found the size 11 of the CF1 Carbon Racer shoe to fit the best. If you have super high arches, you might find the upper to be too shallow or that your arch is rubbing against the top.
Newton CF1 Carbon Racer Ride:
The midsole of the CF1 Carbon Racer is crafted from Newtonium-P, a PEBA-based foam that delivers a soft and compliant feel. The midsole’s design ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe, with the forefoot lugs providing a snappy toe-off. Even though there is a carbon plate, I’ve found it hard to pick up my feet due to the shoe’s weight. Make no mistake, the CF1 Carbon Racer shoe is fast, but I think it would be much faster if it shed a couple of ounces.
If you’ve never run in Newtons before, it’s important to slowly work into them. The lug system works your calves, and jumping right into a long run will make your calves extremely sore and can even injure you. Even though I’ve run off and on in Newtons, I still found myself with extremely sore calves.
Where does the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer fit into my running shoe rotation? It’s a workout and race day shoe. It looks fast, and it feels fast. I’ve found it to be a great longer workout shoe (think mile and beyond repeats) as well as great for longer races. For track work, I generally prefer something a little bit lighter.
An important note: it’s just important to make sure you work into the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer because if you jump in, you could find yourself injured. I actually think the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer would likely be a great road ultramarathon option. As I mentioned, it’s a fast shoe, but I do think if they were able to decrease the weight by an ounce or two, it would be competing with some of the fastest racing shoes.
Outsole:
The outsole of the CF1 features Newton’s signature forefoot lugs, although less prominent than in other models. These lugs contribute to a forward-guided feel, enhancing stability during the toe-off phase. They promote running further on your toes. However, the outsole is best suited for road running. I’ve used them a few times on desert trails, and they are fine but best suited for the road. The smooth outsole and exposed PEBA foam are prone to wear on uneven or aggressive terrains. They handle fine on rainy days, and you won’t have to worry about that. Occasionally, rocks can get stuck in the lugs, and you’ll hear that clink clink noise. So I suggest keeping them for roads only.
As far as durability, I’ve already put about 100 miles on the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer, and I’ve found they have no signs of slowing down. I’ve had some pairs of Newtons that last 500+ miles, and I wouldn’t be surprised if these lasted above average for a carbon-plated shoe.
Newton CF1 Carbon Racer Conclusion:
The Newton CF1 Carbon Racer stands out as Newton’s fastest shoe yet. Its PEBA foam midsole and carbon plate offer a cushioned and snappy ride. This shoe is ideal for long-distance runners who appreciate Newton’s Action Reaction Technology and are looking for a comfortable, cushioned ride.
Who Should Buy the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer:
- Runners looking for a performance trainer or ultra-distance racing shoe
- Those who prefer the feel of Newton’s Action-Reaction Technology
- Long-distance runners seeking a cushioned and responsive ride
Who Should Not Buy the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer:
- Runners seeking a lightweight racing shoe
- Those with a higher instep might find the top of their foot rubbing on the top of the shoe
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review 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:
Do you have a favorite carbon plated shoe?
What is your favorite training shoe?
If newton is making a carbon plated shoe…