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6 TRAINERS THAT GO THE DISTANCE

For those putting in the miles training for 10ks, triathlons, half marathons and more (NYC Marathon for this SOS Editor!), a cushioned running shoe with good stability and durability is essential. This season’s crop have all that, plus a whole lot of style, and now are lighter than ever as well. Check out these 6 picks for the top trainers that go the distance!

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BROOKS GHOST 6 $110. Winner of the Runners World Editors choice award 3 years in a row for its balance of cushioning, comfort and durability, the Ghost 6 is its lightest model to date. With full ground contact and segmentation of the sole, the shoe rolls with ease from heel-strike to toe-off, providing a soft and flexible ride. The unique offset lace loop keeps the tongue in place for a snug and comfortable fit.

SAUCONY KINVARA 5 $100. Another Runners World award winner, the fifth edition of the ever popular Kinvara, now weighs in at 7.7 ounces. Made with PowerGrid, this lightweight, ultra-premium cushioning foam maximizes rebound and flexibility for a smoother ride. The 4mm heel-to-toe offset allows for a more natural gait, giving the foot greater range of motion, and providing a more powerful running stride.

NEW BALANCE 890V4 $110. This lightweight trainer has been recognized for its responsive REVlite cushioning, but now offers more flexibility as well. The new sole configuration, with its deep grooves and rubber pods, give the forefoot more pliability, while the ABZORB® crash pad cradles the heel both medially and laterally for added stability.

NEWTON ENERGY NR $119. For those heel strikers who have wanted to experience the unique technology and ride found in Newton Running shoes, the EnergyNR facilitates the transition from a traditional running shoe to a more natural design. This is the second Newton model to incorporate their newer 5-lug sole design, which mirrors the structure of ball of the foot. With a more neutral heel drop than other Newton models, it offers more cushioning in the heel as well. Lightweight and bouncy, this is a fun and responsive shoe to work into the rotation.

NIKE FLYKNIT LUNAR2 $150. The Nike Flyknit Lunar2 delivers the ideal blend of support, comfort and style. The soft and responsive Lunarlon cushioning, combined with the ultralight and strong Flyknit upper, delivers a plush ride with a supportive fit. The one-piece Flyknit layer is a formfitting and virtually seamless upper. It is woven more openly in areas that need greater flexibility and tighter in areas that demand more support.

ADIDAS ENERGY BOOST 2 $160. BOOST™ foam is proven to provide one of the highest energy returns of any cushioning material in the running industry. It is temperature-resistant to keep the spring in your step regardless of weather conditions. Light and fast, these shoes offer a soft and bouncy responsiveness combined with a seamless, sock-like fit that stretches and flexes as you run for added comfort and support.

 

Summer Sneaker News: Plush & Superflex

 
LEFT SOLE: NEW BALANCE MINIMUS HI-REZ; RIGHT SOLE: ADIDAS CLIMACOOL AERATE 2.0; TOP RIGHT: SAUCONY VIRRATA (SHOWN IN FLEX); BOTTOM RIGHT: NIKE FREE 5.0 (SHOWN IN FLEX)

 

The word in running and training shoes this summer is FLEX, with soles that are cut, sliced and grooved to allow the foot to move the way nature intended. Inspired by the minimalist and barefoot running movement, these shoes take those principles but add the cushioning that has proven to be more of a necessity since the trend started.

Besides the comfort and ride, what we love are all the bright and poppy colors in which to go for a run or to the gym this summer. After all, fun shoes are half the reason to train! Above and below are a few of our season’s best picks. No need to change shoes when the workout is done.

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NEW BALANCE MINIMUS HI-REZ. New Balance has been one of the industry leaders in the minimal running movement, and the newest addition to the Minimus collection is the Hi-Rez. It is the most minimal of their running and training shoes with an 00mm drop from heel to toe. Somewhat amphibian like, 42 independent cushioned pods move naturally with the foot to deliver unparalleled flexibility and underfoot sensation.

ADIDAS CLIMACOOL AERATE 2.0. Very flexible and extra cool for summer is the Climacool Aerate with its anatomically shaped perforated footbed and articulated midsole for increased airflow and movement. The OrthoLite sockliner provides long-lasting cushioning, excellent moisture management and breathable comfort. Socks are optional.

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