Tag Archives: running shoe review

Gear Review, Running

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

New Balance has done a lot of great things with their shoes in 2019. From the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel to the New Balance 880, I’ve been a fan of pretty much everything they’re put out. I’ve run off and on in the New Balance 1080 for a few years. TheNew Balance 1080 v10 is very different than previous versions but in a good way. When someone asks: did my shoe change much, the answer is usually no. When someone asks did the New Balance 1080 change much, the answer is yes, it did by a lot.

Every aspect of the newest 1080 had to be better than it was before.

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

New Balance 1080 v10 Quick Facts:

Weight: 8.9

Heel to Toe Drop: 8 mm

New Balance 1080 v10 Fit:

The upper of the New Balance 1080 v10 is entirely different from previous versions. It’s still an engineered knit upper, but now with it’s been designed with a custom computer modeling technique called “reaction-diffusion.”  What does that mean? The upper creates different stretches within the same fabric.

New Balance calls this new fabric, “Hypoknit.” The Hypoknit is designed to support all the way around the shoe as well as be flexible for a more customizable fit.  Before Hypoknit, if you wanted a stretchy material as well as breathable, you would have to use completely different fabrics. Now it can all be done together on one machine.

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

All of this to say, the upper is now one material.  

One issue with the New Balance 1080 was the heel counter. Some felt as though the heel counter was too thin and sharp. The 3d heel counter of the New Balance 1080 v10 has been redesigned and is slimmer and less rigid. It also flairs up, so it doesn’t bother the Achilles.

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

I’ve worn anywhere between a 10-11 wide in the New Balance 1080 and I found the 10.5 to fit well.  I appreciate the wide toe box, New Balance is well known for.

New Balance 1080 v10 Ride:

Like the previous version of the New Balance 1080, the New Balance 1080 v10 uses a full-length fresh foam. New Balance Fresh Foam is known for its softness like a sponge. For the 10th version, New Balance has created “Fresh Foam X.” Fresh Foam X is a new cushion that has more cushioning and energy return.  Compared to previous versions of New Balance 1080, the Balance 1080 v10 is much softer mile after mile.

If you flip over the New Balance 1080 v10, you’ll also notice the change to the bottom of the shoe. Now, it features blown rubber outsole lug segments.  These blown outsole lug segments help provide the New Balance 1080 v10, traction as well as easier flex.

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

New Balance 1080 v10 Conclusion:

I think the New Balance 1080 v10 is one of the best-updated shoes of 2019. It’s lighter, more cushioned, and more responsive. It will remain a daily trainer for me and I’m fairly certain this will be a shoe I go through more than one of the New Balance 1080 v10.

New Balance 1080 v10 Shoe Review

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, Hoka Bondi 6, Saucony Triumph 17 Shoe Review

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Gear Review, Running

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is a newly updated shoe from Diadora. For many, Diadora is an unfamiliar brand. If you played soccer, you’d know Diadora is an Italian company that once specialized in both soccer and lifestyle shoes. A few years ago, Diadora moved into running shoes and done a great job. The plush cushioning in their models has been well received.  Plus, many of their models are “only” updated every 18 months to 2 years. Finally, the United States Headquarters is in Philadelphia, which I can appreciate.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Quick Facts:

Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm

Weight: 10.2 oz

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Fit:

The brand, Diadora, is a wider last shoe altogether. If your feet are wider, it might be a good brand to look into. Many of their models are roomy enough to go down a half size. I don’t because it’s not enough space for me, but many people do. The  Diadora Mythos Elite TRX has a contoured footbed that cradles and guides the foot in a neutral path.

Typically in running shoes, I wear a size 10-11 wide. In the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, I find a size 10 to be most appropriate.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Ride:

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX uses a new concept in running technology. It gives you support when you need it and not when you don’t need it. The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX simulates the presence of a traditional medial side dual-density system and achieves the same end result by the subtraction of the section on the lateral side.

For instance, say one of your feet pronates and the other does not, the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX will give support to the foot that needs it but will remain neutral for those who don’t. Similar to the once-beloved Nike Lunarglide. Come to think of it; if you were ever a Nike Lunarglide fan, the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is a shoe to look into.

Blushield technology allows neutral runners to stay neutral, but those were needing stability to get that as well. Theoretically, anyone can run in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX. Do I quite believe “anyone can run in the shoe,” no, but it will provide support if you need it and not if you don’t.

I’ve run in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX for several different runs, including workouts, long runs, and easy runs. With the amount of cushion in the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, I prefer the shoe for easy runs.

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Shoe Review

Diadora Mythos Elite TRX Conclusion:

I like the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX and it’s a great trainer for easy runs or recovery runs. The extra cushion during training feels great during recovery runs. If you are looking for a new brand to try, Diadora is a great option. Plus, they sponsor a couple of local races, including the New Jersey Marathon and Philly 10k.  The Diadora Mythos Elite TRX is exclusively available in run specialty. If you are local, I know RunningCo. of Haddonfield, Philly Runner, North Wales Running Company, and Runners High all carry the Diadora Mythos Elite TRX.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, Hoka Bondi 6,  Brooks Ghost 12

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro, 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. 

Questions for you:

Hae you tried Diadora?

What is your favorite recovery day trainer?

 

Gear Review, Running, Running Reads, Training

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes (For You!)

6 Comments

As someone who works in a running shoe store, I can tell you I’ve personally fit about 1000 people for running shoes, and I’ve watched hundreds more be fit too.

Searching for your own personal shoes can be tough.  What do you look for?  How do you know when they are “right”?

When searching for running shoes, I always advise people to get fitted at their local running store.  Thinking out loud, people that work in a running store have seen dozens of brands, styles, and companies. Plus they know shoes well.  That being said, you know your feet.  You know what feels most comfortable.

Most people come in and have no idea what to look for in a running shoe. 

The short answer: Does it feel good? 

Yes, then it’s the right shoe for you.

No?  Then it’s not the right shoe for you.

The Long Answer:

Here are some important details you should look for in shoes.

Size (Length): 

I cannot emphasize this enough.  Do not buy your shoes too small.  During the day, your feet can swell and lengthen anywhere from a half-full size.  This is magnified during running!  Always make sure there is a thumb’s width of space between your biggest toe and the end of the shoe.

Yes, your feet lengthen over time and age so make sure you get your measured frequently.  After putting your shoes on, make sure you can wiggle all of your toes.  If you can’t the shoe is too tight or too narrow.  This brings us to point number 2.

Size (Width): 

The width of a shoe is one of the most underlooked aspects of a shoe.  Most running specialty stores carry at least wide if not double wide!  Do not be scared to go into a wider shoe.  If you are getting holes on the side of your shoe from your pinkie toe, this could be a sign the shoe is too narrow.  Having extra room is always better than not enough.  I never knew I needed a wide until working at the store.  Now, I love it.

Heel: 

In any running shoe, your heel should feel both snug and secure.  It should never feel tight.  If you feel as though you are “slipping,” lace your shoe to the final eyelet. This will you’re your heel more into place.  Some shoes are cut lower than others but make sure you’re comfortable in the cut of the back too.

The heel should never feel tight, but there can be a little bit of movement.  If the heel feels uncomfortable in the store, then it won’t feel good while running.

Feel:

You can be fit into the appropriate shoe but it doesn’t feel good, it doesn’t.  How a shoe feels to you is one of the most important aspects of the shoe.  You want a shoe that feels natural.  You don’t want a shoe that “you’ll have to get used too”.  Don’t get a shoe to alter to your stride because that can create many more issues.  Running Stores recommend taking the shoe for a quick run in the store.  That initial few steps often can tell you an immediate yes or no.  Also, most running stores have an exchange policy to work with you.

With so many different shoes out there, it can be hard to figure out which one is “best for you”.  Remember, there is no right or wrong answer but only what feels good and keeps you injury free.

Other Running Store Topics:
Thoughts While Working at a Running Store
How to Get the Most Shopping at a Running Specialty Store
Should You Wear Running Shoes Outside of Running?
How to Find the Perfect Pair of Running Shoes
There is no Perfect Running Shoe

Questions for you:
What is your current favorite running shoe?
When was the last time you bought running shoes?