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Tag Archives: shoe

Topo Magnifly 2 Shoe Review

May 29, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , , 1 Comment
Topo Magnifly 2 Shoe Review

Recently, I started running in Topo shoes. I’ve had a few friends that love them.  Since this is my first time trying Topo, I have no previous versions to compare it too. I was lucky enough that Topo sent me two pairs of shoes to test out.

Quick Stats: 

Weight: 8.3 oz
Drop: 0

Topo Magnifly 2 Shoe Review

Fit:

The upper has minimal seams and has plenty of space. Topo is not available in wides; the regular width seems to be enough space for me.  If you are looking for a wider forefront shoe, Topo is excellent for that.

I typically wear a women’s size 10-11 wide. The women’s size 10.5 fit well. It fits similar to the Altra Escalante and shares a lot of characteristics, including zero drop.

Topo Magnifly 2 Shoe Review

Ride:

The Topo Magnifly 2 has a lot of cushion for a zero drop shoe. Before running in it, I thought it would be a minimal shoe, but I was surprised that it did have an ample amount of cushion. The cushion from Topo has a mix of a softer layer on the top and a much more firm and responsive bottom layer.  This allows it to protect your feet but also still spring you forward.

Topo Magnifly 2 Shoe Review

Like any zero drop shoe, if you are not used to running in a zero drop shoe, it’s important to work into the shoe. If you jump into a longer run, you might be more likely to get injured or have tight calves.

Conclusion:

The Topo Magnifly 2 was a surprise for me. I expected less cushion but I like the ride and that I can use the shoe for longer and easier runs. It will probably stay in my rotation as an easy run or long run shoe. If you like Altra or Altra Escalante, it’s a great shoe to alternate with.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Bondi 6, Topo Magnifly 2, Hoka Mach 2, Brooks Glycerin 17,

Speed Work: Reebok Float Ride Runfast Pro, Nike Streak Lt,

Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2

Races: Nike Fly, Reebok Run fast Pro

You can see all current shoe reviews here.

Questions for you:

Have you tried Topo before?

What is your favorite shoe? 

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Hoka One One Bondi 6 Shoe Review

May 22, 2019 By in Running, Training Tags: , , , , , , 3 Comments

Like the Clifton, the Bondi was one of Hoka’s first shoes. When you think of Hoka, you think of maximum cushion and something like the Bondi.

If you’ve never run in Hoka before, the Bondi is a lot of shoe. In fact, the Hoka Bondi is probably the most shoe in the industry. The 6th version doesn’t bring a lot of changes like previous versions. Throughout the last few versions, Hoka has made the Bondi much firmer. There is a big difference in feel of the cushioning. If you like a softer, marshmallow type of shoe: go with the Clifton, if you like a firmer cushioning go with Bondi.

I am team Bondi, as well as Mach, and Cavu, which all are much firmer. (I still like the Clifton, I would just choose the others before).

Hoka One One Bondi 6 Shoe Review

Fit:

Hoka has started to fit big throughout the last year. Not big enough I would go down a size, but big enough that you will have more space. You can’t go wrong with a bigger shoe. You can have plenty of problems when the shoe is too small.

I usually wear between a 10-11 wide in running shoes, and 10.5 regular width is fine. (The Bondi does come in wides which is awesome!).

The major update in the Bondi 6 is a better upper. The mesh has been redesigned to allow more breathability as well durability.  (so hopefully your toes don’t poke through the top). Plus as your feet sweat, they will be able to breathe.

Hoka One One Bondi 6 Shoe Review

Ride:

Explaining how a Hoka feels before someone has tried it on is next to impossible. If you’ve never worn Hoka before, they use Meta-rocker technology which allows you to roll forward.

The Meta-Rocker is designed with a lower heel to toe drop to create a fulcrum effect. Think of it like a rocking chair.

If you’ve worn the Bondi before, the update in the ride is minimal. If you ran well in the 5, you should run well in the 6. Since the 4 to 5, was a more significant jump, Hoka kept this version very similar.

The Bondi 6 is one of my favorite shoes for recovery and easy days. Days I don’t care about pace. Since there is so much cushion to them if you are looking for an easy day, recovery day, walking shoe, these are going to keep your legs and feet happy. While the shoe isn’t a stable shoe, it’s got a wide base, so it is going to provide some stability. You feel like you are well cushioned from the start, middle, and end of the run. Sometimes after a run in the Bondi, I think…did I even run?

Hoka One One Bondi 6 Shoe Review

Conclusion: 

The Bondi is an excellent choice for recovery or easy days. It’s also a great choice if you work somewhere where you are standing all day long. I feel like out of any shoe I’ve ever reviewed (Yes, any), if I needed a shoe I could be in for hours or days, it would be this shoe. If for some reason I was running for 10 hours, I would choose this shoe.  It’s not the fastest shoe out there, but not designed to be either.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka, Bondi 6, Hoka Mach 2, Brooks Glycerin 17,

Speed Work: Reebok Float Ride Runfast Pro, Nike Streak Lt,

Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2

Races: Nike Fly, 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. This week I talked about the differences between social media runners and running specialty.  In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. There are often giveaways as well as discount codes.

Questions for you:

Have you tried a Hoka shoe?

What is your favorite recovery shoe? 

Reebok Floatride Run Fast

May 15, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , , 6 Comments
Reebok Floatride Run Fast

Like I mentioned with the Reebok Floatride Run fast Pro, if you had asked me if I would be running in Reebok a year ago I would have laughed. Now I run in two shoes from Reebok.  Plus, the Runfast Pro rivals the Nike 4% and in my opinion, a better shoe when it rains.  Recently, Reebok stepped up their game and reentered the running industry.

Reebok Floatride Run Fast shoe review

Floatride Run Fast ( $140)
Weight: 6.05 oz
Stack Height:8mm drop.

Fit:

It fits more similar to a racing flat than a true trainer. It runs narrow, and the top is pointy. If you have a wider foot, it’s better to go up a half size. I found the 10.5 to be a good fit, but I think it was running longer I might go higher than that.

The upper uses a very thin engineered mesh. I can appreciate how the mesh is seamless. If you have a bunion or wider forefront, it won’t rub. The upper is one of the lightest and most breathable of any shoes I’ve run in.  It’s worth noting that with the lack of seams, there isn’t a lot of structure to the shoe.

Reebok Floatride Run Fast shoe review

Ride:

The Reebok Floatride Run Fast is a shoe that is designed to run fast. It’s not a true racing flat and has more cushion than the Pro, but it’s a great option for speed work and tempos.

Since it has enough cushion, it could be used as a long run or an easy run shoe, but I don’t think I’ll keep it there myself.  If you like running in something flatter or lighter (like the Saucony Kinvara, Hoka Cavu, or New Balance Beacon), you might prefer to train in it.

Reebok has the best traction of any road shoe on the market right now. When it’s raining or wet, I’ve gravitated towards Reebok just because of all of the rubber on the bottom. If I run another rainy race, I’ll probably race in the Run Fast Pro.

Reebok Floatride Run Fast shoe review

Conclusion:

Reebok is definitely back in the running game with their shoes. The Run Fast is a great option for speed work and faster runs. For me, it won’t be an easy run or recovery shoe because I need more cushion.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Mach 2, Brooks Glycerin 17

Speed Work: Reebok Float Ride Runfast Pro, Nike Streak Lt,

Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2

Races: Nike Fly, 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. This week I talked about the differences between social media runners and running specialty.  In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. There are often giveaways as well as discount codes.

Questions for you:

What is your favorite shoe in the rain?

What shoe are you racing in right now? 

 

 

Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

April 24, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , , , 6 Comments
Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

I’ve been looking for a new hiking shoe for the 2019 season. As most people know, I like running but also appreciate and like hiking just as much. I like a good hike as much as a good run and just enjoying being outside.

I have tried a few shoes including the Brooks Cascadia as well as Under Armour BPF.  Both were good, but I’m always looking to try something new.

I’ve also wanted to try something a little higher cut shoe so when I noticed Hoka had a midlevel version of the Speedgoat I knew I wanted to try it.

Technically the Hoka Speedgoat Midi could be considered a running shoe or hiking shoe.  A boot and shoe that does it all! I will personally use it as a hiking boot since I don’t live in an area that needs this aggressive of a trail shoe.

The original Speedgoat has won several awards as a top trail shoe, so I thought why not try it. For the Speedgoat, Hoka combines their famous sole with Vibram.  Plus, it’s waterproof, so if you step in puddles (which I have), you’re fine. I’ve come to realize waterproof trail shoes are essential to me, especially when hiking.Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

Upper:

The upper varies from a traditional shoe as it’s a boot. It’s water resistant, so when it’s wet, your feet stay relatively dry. I typically wear a women’s size 10-11 wide. I found the men’s size 9 to be a good fit and truthfully I liked the color of the mens better.

Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

Traction

With trail shoes, traction is significant. You don’t want a trail shoe that you’re sliding around in.

The major difference between road and trail shoes is trail shoes have a more aggressive bottom.

 

Hoka has partnered with Vibram for the entire bottom of their shoe.  While hiking, I had no issue taking them through mud, dirt, washed out, or dry trails. Most people don’t realize how rocky the Appalachian Trail can be, but they have gripped well.  I haven’t had an issue where I’m like, oh that could use more traction.

Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

Water Resistance

One of the significant draws (for me) is the water resistance. As I hiked through muddy and wet terrain, I didn’t have any issues with my feet being wet. Sometimes you might worry a waterproof shoe is too hot (and think lack of breathability) but the Hoka Speedgoat has a wrap-around liner.  This means it keeps water out but also allows your feet to breathe.

Hoka One One Speedgoat Midi Shoe Review

Conclusion

As someone who loves both running and hiking, I believe this shoe can do both. For avid trail runners, it’s a lightweight boot that you can put miles in a while still staying comfortable. For the casual hiker (like me), it a good boot with plenty of traction to keep you stable. Plus unlike many hiking boots, it’s not heavy. I run any trail races this summer; this is one I’ll keep in mind.

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It’s hiking szn.

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Current Shoe Rotation:

Easy Runs: Brooks Glycerin 17, New Balance 1080, Hoka Mach 2

Speed Work: Reebok Float ride Runfast Pro, Nike Fly

Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2

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. There are giveaways, coupon codes, and more.

Races: Nike Fly, Reebok Floatride

Questions for you:

Do you have a favorite trail shoe? What is your current favorite shoe? 

 

Reebok Floatride Run Fast Pro

April 10, 2019 By in Gear Review, Running Tags: , , , , , 5 Comments
Reebok Floatride Run Fast Pro

This is the first Reebok shoe I’ve ever tried. I needed a new workout flat, so I decided to try it out. The Reebok Flotride Run Fast Pro was designed as a racing shoe.  To my knowledge, it’s the lightest racing flat on the market weight just 3.5 ounces.

It’s more designed for a 5k but could you run a half or maybe (maybe!), a full marathon, sure.  Most of the weight is taken out of the upper material. There is a ton of cushion in the shoe for the weight, which is why the price point is $250.

Reebok Floatride Run Fast Pro Shoe Review

Fit:

Like most flats, they fit narrow. I usually wear between a women’s 10-11 wide. I found the unisex/9 to fit the best since it’s a bit wider.

The upper is very thin engineered mesh.  The thin mesh takes off a few ounces (which is a lot in the racing flat world). There aren’t any seams or overlays that would cause blisters. For a racing flat, it fits fairly average, and I’ve come to wear unisex 9.5 in most. I’ve done a few workouts in it, and haven’t had any issues with any irritation.

Reebok Floatride Run Fast Pro Shoe Review

Ride:

This is the first Reebok shoe I’ve tried and a different feel altogether. It’s much softer and with more cushion than a traditional flat like the Nike Streak, yet doesn’t have the weight.

Reebok uses an entirely different material than the traditional EVA.  The cushion they use it called “Pebax.” Why should you care about Pebax

Pebax is lighter and doesn’t compress as regular EVA foams. It’s softer and similar to the Vapor Fly. So yes, this shoe feels similar to the Nike Vaporfly but lacks the carbon plate.  The new types of foam brands are incorporating are expensive which is why they are costly to the consumer. You do feel as though your foot springs forward with every step.

One interesting thing is how much rubber there is despite how light they are.  For a racing flat, they have the most traction of any shoe I’ve seen. I haven’t run on a rainy day, but I don’t foresee it being a problem either. In fact, this will probably be my rainy day staple.  The entire sole of the shoe has traction.

I like running in them, and I feel fast when I do. They’ve become my staple speed shoe, and I think they’ll be a better 5k shoe than the Nike Vaporfly. Reebok Floatride Run Fast Pro Shoe Review

Conclusion:

I do believe this is a good flat and has become my favorite workout flat.  If you had asked me two months ago, would I like Reebok, I would have LOLed. It’s not a shoe you “go for an easy run in,” but it’s a great workout and racing shoe. To me, it feels the most like the Nike 4%, but I think the durability will be better than the Vaporfly. Plus, the traction responds much better in a rainy day.

To me, this is a very strong competitor to VP and would probably win for a better racing shoe for the 5k or in rainy/poor weather conditions.

Current Rotation:

Easy Runs: New Balance 1080, Brooks Glycerin 17, Hoka Mach 2

Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2,, Nike Pegasus Turbo

Workouts: Nike LT Streak 4, Reebok Floatride Fast

Races: Reebok Floatride Fast, Nike Fly

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:

What is your favorite racing shoe right now?

Have you run in Reebok?

 

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