Shoes Of The Day

Trick or Sweet?  Newton’s Gravitas: The Running Shoe that Will Keep You Going!

If you ask me, running shoes often get a bad rap. They’re seen as one-hit wonders, as specialty shoes, and certainly not shoes you’ll want to take to formal occasions. But these are the shoes that we wear out the most often, provided we actually stick to those New Year’s resolutions, and they will certainly take the greatest beating. So why is a great pair of running shoes so low on the list of stylish or important clothing options?

Well, because they look like Newton’s Gravitas, a pair of running shoes that offers high-level functionality for the 2011-2020 decade but look like they’ve been plucked out of the 1980’s. Not that there’s anything wrong with a little retro-style, especially when it comes to the timeless exercise classics that came with the rise of brands like Nike.

If you’re a runner, of course, you couldn’t care less. Shoes like the gravitas are why you run – you want to customize your own level of endurance, and you need a shoe that can take you ten miles a day just as easily as it can take you a mile. That’s what the Gravitas provides with extended heel durability, excellent fit and plenty of flexibility. There are some shoes that would seek to change you with all that they do to your foot – the Gravitas is not one of those shoes.

At $175, these shoes do come down on the pricy side, which can be especially tricky if you’re a college student and need the exercise but also need the money. Die-hard runners might – forgive the pun – gravitate to a shoe like the Gravitas more readily, especially if those runners are the ones who have been around a while, have some money, and need a shoe that reduces stress on their feet and legs.  Looking to build your calf muscles?  These are the shoes.  These shoes will keep you on your toes – literally.  I asked a triathlon expert “what do you think about the newton shoe experience?  He responded, “I wont run in anything thing else.”  Take it from us and a tri-expert and try a pair for yourself.  No trick, they’re sweet!

Should you get a pair? It’s certainly worth a look if you want a quality running shoe. And, heck, if you were looking for stylish shoes in the first place, you wouldn’t have finished this article because you’d already be reading GQ.  Or, you’re still staring and the shorts and not the shoes.

The What:
This trail running shoe is called: Newton’s Gravitas.
Color tested: Blue. Orange. White. Sliver.

The Why:
Buy them if: your calves need some serious toning, and your running form needs honing.
Forget them if: you already have perfect running form.
Tested on: asphalt of the blackest pigment.
Highest and best use: for the shoes?  Running.  For the Shorts?  Halloween.

Tip: If this is your first pair of Newtons, work them in slowly to you run.  These shoes will keep you on your toes!  (The shorts probably will too.)

newtonrunning.com

(Model and shorts not included with the purchase!  However, both the shoes and model were used with permission)

*Disclosure: shoes provided by Newton Running MSRP $175).  If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity Pro HPi Review

Looking for a light-weight, high-tech shoe with a fancy name?  The Hi-Tec V-lite Infinity Pro HPi may be your next trail running shoe.  Hi-Tec’s newest running shoe was a pleasant, light-weight and comfortable surprise.  Hi-Tec has come a long way, and these shoes offer right-out-of-the-box comfort.  My test included a 5 mile, 1,000 foot climb, single track trail run.  The terrain was muddy and wet, and these shoes handled every step of the trail.

A few notes from the field.  These shoes run big – as in long.  Typically, with a trail running shoe you want at least a ½ size larger than you normally wear.  With the Hi-Tec V-Lite, you will be happy staying true to your size.  These shoes are also narrow.  If you have a wide foot, you may want to select another pair of trail running shoes.  These shoes aren’t completely water-proof.  The Ion Mask is a “hydrophobic, breathable, lightweight, stay clean, quick dry” material that will keep your shoes clean and your feet happily breathing, but not 100% dry.  The design and color selection make them easy to look at.  You will also be seen with the reflective safety accents.

We loved the Vibram sole, which offers plenty of traction, even on a wet trail.  We also really liked the molded toe-cap, all ten of my toes appreciated the extra protection from the rock-kicking on the ascent.

This trail shoe is called: Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity Pro HPi.
Color tested: Black/Silver/Cobalt.
Buy them if: you want a really light-weight, high-comfort trail runner.
Forget them if: your foot width is best compared to the grade you got in your 7th grade biology class.
Tested on: a muddy, rocky, single-track trail.
Highest and best use: broad mix of mountain trail terrain.

Trail shoes of the day:  Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity Pro HPi.  Now, go run on water – but be safe!  For more shoes and gear visit Hi Tec.com

Disclosure: We received these shoes complementary from Hi Tec.  If we didn’t like them, we wouldn’t have written about them.

New Year +  New Shoes = New You.

All of us set goals.  Most of us make it through the first couple of weeks.  Some of us make it months and few of us make it throughout the year.  We have some advice:  make resolutions a pursuit not a one-time event!  Goals should look like this picture of all these marathon shoes in circle:

Image courtesy Nike

Start at the top, and don’t give up half way around, see your goals all the way through.  Be specific and make them attainable.  Too often, we set a goal “I want to lose weight.”  That is a noble goal.  However, it isn’t specific enough.  The goal should be I want to lose 10 pounds by the end of March.  Give yourself a specific goal and a deadline.  Tell other people.   You will be surprised how some will take an interest and help cheer you along.  When you reach your goal, take time to celebrate your success and then pat yourself on the back.

This month we will be providing reviews on running shoes, not just any running shoes – but the best running shoes for 2011.   We want to help you keep your New “Shoe” Years resolutions.  Stay tuned.  Daily.

Here is what we recommended in years past:

For 2010 you needed New Nike Training Shoes For 2010

In 2009 we thought that You Need A Diet Packed With SHOES!

We wish you all a healthy and prosperous 2011 – thanks to all of you who visit shoesoftheday.com!

Leave your thoughts on New Year’s goals below!

Nike Free Run+ Men’s Running Shoe Review

Not quite ready to run barefoot?  Nike has a solution for all those who desire to join the minimalist running revolution but aren’t quite ready to toss out shoes altogether.  The Free Series by Nike combines the concepts of improving foot strength and emphasizing toe and mid-foot contact over heel contact. Unlike other minimalistic shoe designs, the Nike Free Series look just like regular sneakers and the magic is in their structure and design.

Nike released their first “Free Series” shoe in 2005.  Since then, the new models released each year have been refined and improved versions of the original.  The first model closely resembled a real bare feet feel and more recent models have added arch support to prevent injury and strain.  The shoe’s overall goal is to support and strengthen your entire foot (Yes, even shoes set goals now days.)   Asymmetrical laces relieve pressure on the top of your foot and grooved soles to encourage you to incorporate your toes in each stride, encouraging you to put less pressure on your heel.  Notice the laces?  Look a little closer.  See the text?   The “lace up and save lives” campaign is geared towards helping to fight AIDS in Africa.

Back to the shoes.  Every runner knows that heel stomping is a no-no, but that doesn’t make it any easier to avoid – after all your brain is a long way from your feet.  Another one of Nike’s aims with the Free Series was to build a shoe that actively encourages runners to use their metatarsals, toes and arch, while minimizing heel stomping when running. The shoes achieve this by simply decreasing the amount of rubber in the heel of the shoes.  Genius.

The Nike Free Run+ is a particularly lightweight and flexible.  Your feet will immediately feel at home in the cozy, yet firm and comfortable fit.  Nike has also made a point of increasing mid-foot support in particular to decrease the soreness many barefoot runners experience.

Come on, set your feet free with these shoes!  The shoes of the day:  Nike – Free Run+ (Neutral Grey/Black-Sport Red-White) – Footwear

Nike Free Run+ Men's Running Shoe

Pros: Light. Weight-less. Nike. Always a plus.
Cons: Everyone’s got ‘em.
Buy them if: You want the feeling of running  barefoot, but your feet still need some convincing.
Forget about them if: You’ve had enough, and just want to go barefoot.

Oh, and Dallin, thanks for allowing us to take a picture of your foot.

Keen Shoes Review
Before I share my candid shoe review, first let me say that I am pretty keen on Keen shoes.  In fact I currently own 3 pair.  Late last year, I purchased the Keen Shellrock WP for winter trail running.  The WP – it stands for waterproof, “KEEN.DRY” style.   The Keen “right-out-of-the-box” comfort was there, but the promised Keen performance was missing.

Pros:  The water-proof works and I put the KEEN.DRY to the test.  I ran until the snow got too deep, then strapped on snow shoes and kept running.  My feet remained dry.  I would be remiss if I didn’t give a little credit to my wool socks.  These are great everyday shoes during the rainy season or when you want to keep your feet dry.  The ubiquitous keen toe protection really does what it says.

Cons: They are extremely heavy.  They have zero traction for trail running and  I like meaty traction.  The S3 heel support structure is alright, but the low cut heel leaves your heel slipping and sliding on every ascent.  Also, if you suffer from the “my-second-toe-is-longer-than-my-big-toe-coolness” like I do, then you will want to find another shoe too.

Buy them if: they are on sale, they are not worth $120.
Forget about them if: you want real trail running shoes.

Happy Valentines Shoes Of The Day.

Maybe next year you’ll buy her the heels she wanted instead of the running shoes you thought she’d love.

Thanks for the priceless picture Dan – today was awesome!

If you want our take on running shoes – read our running shoe reviews

Just in time for your “shoe years” resolutions, Nike has introduced three new training shoes to help you with your 2010 weight training program. Whether you are trying to loose or gain weight, these will look great on your feet.  The name of the new Nike training shoes are: Nike Lunar Kayoss, Nike Trainer1 Low, Nike SC2010. Each of these shoes are designed to provide a durable and lightweight shoe for your New Year. That’s right, shoesoftheday is committed to helping you achieve your athletic goals, one shoe at a time.  Go ahead and click on the links below – come on start clicking, your fingers need exercise too!

Nike Lunar Kayoss

Nike Trainer 1 Low

Nike Trainer SC 2010 

Images courtesy of Nike Media

Enjoy the Nike training shoes of the day for your 2010.

We have done a Vibram Five Fingers review but, we continue to hear about them. My aunt sent me an email, “hey, you should review these shoes.”  Next, a good friend; “you’ve got to review these again.” Finally, when I saw Sergey Brin wearing them comfortably in a directors chair, I had to write about them again.  After all, if these shoes are good enough for the co-founder of Google, they deserve a second review.

image courtesy John Biggs crunchgear.com

VibramFiveFingers.com “recommend(s) wearing FiveFingers for exercise, for play, and for fun. Stimulating muscles in your feet and lower legs will not only make you stronger and healthier, it improves your balance, agility and proprioception.”

Do I own a pair? No.  Remember, I suffer from “the-my-second-toe-is-longer-than-my-big-toe-coolness.”  Perhaps Vibram will make a custom pair for me with an extended cab!  If you are done with socks and your toes are tired of co-habitation, get them their own space with the Vibram Five Fingers “Floves.”

New England Footwear recently sent me a pair of GoLite “Fire” shoes to test and review.  Today I completed my final trail test-run with the recently released shoes.   This shoe review will contain mostly pictures and some commentary, in an effort to show you how these shoes performed in each circumstance; from packed trails, to slick sandstone and hard mountain rock.  We reviewed several other pairs of trail running shoes, but only one pair was chosen for an all-expenses paid road trip trail shoe review.

Let’s begin the review at Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.  Ranger Bill at Arches told us that you must stay on the marked trails, otherwise you are “busting the crust.”  We assure you and Ranger Bill that there was no busted crust while at the park.  The GoLite Fires handled the slick rock, dirt and red sand without any slips.

Next we go to Goblin Valley, Utah.  This State Park is an incredible scene to behold.  The entire park is covered with small sandstone structures that look like thousands of aliens who set up shop in the middle of Utah for a family reunion.  You can’t help but run from structure to structure, scaling the dusty sandstone just to see if you can identify any of your relatives.

Next we go to the Manti LaSal National Forrest.  Three pictures show the topography that was thrown at the shoes this time.  The shoe proved to have incredible stability on the uneven surfaces, and yes, they handled the plain old packed trail just fine.

Next, Rock Canyon.  This canyon is well, rocky.  The shoes handled the uneven, rocky terrain with ease.

The final trail run was Grove Creek Canyon.  Every kind of terrain imaginable is on this trail: gravel, dirt, rocks and shale.  Of all the trail runs, this had the steepest terrain and the most rugged off-road conditions.  The shoes exceeded our expectations here, too.

Miles driven for this review: 880 miles.

National Parks: Three. (Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef.)

State Parks: Two.  (Dead Horse Point and Goblin Valley)

Shoe Test Miles: 29 total miles running, walking, scrambling and just looking good.

Now for the shoe highlights for all the non-visual people:

• We loved the customizable antimicrobial footbed, it provided the precise fit for my narrow foot.  The insole design allows for perfect customization for narrow, medium and wide feet.
• The all new “glove fit” integrated with the tongue and laces made my foot feel secure and snug.  At first, there’s a feeling to adjust your socks when you slide your foot in the shoe, but when you tie the laces, you’re glad it’s there.
• The shoe offers optimal balance of cushion and torsion.  GoLite’s trademark “NeoFoam” wraps around the entire shoe and offers protection and support.  It also cleans up nicely.
• The best “Trail Claws” and “Paw Pads” provide more surface contact with the ground.
• Gripstick™ rubber is an exclusive high-grip compound that offers extra traction on slick surfaces.
• The heel cradle keeps your heel right where it belongs.
• Ample toe protection – see the pictures!
• It has incredible light-weight performance: the shoe is true to the brand, weighing in at only 14.00 oz.

Shoes of the day: GoLite’s Fire.  We think even Smokey the Bear would like these Fires!  But don’t Go-lite any fires without his permission.

Happy Labor Day from Shoes Of The Day.  There isn’t a better time to get out and trail run – the leaves are changing, the air is perfectly crisp, and soon there will be snow.  This September we are going to exclusively review trail running shoes, and we wanted to share 10 tips for finding the perfect trail running shoe for you and your feet.

1. Breatheability.  Let’s be honest, your feet are already pretty cool – that’s why you’re here.  No need for your feet to heat up on your trail runs.  Look for a lightweight mesh or some other breathable material in an upper.  Not only will your shoes be cooler for you when you run, but when you step in water, they will dry out much quicker.  Get breatheability.  If you can’t stay out of the water, abandon this bullet-point altogether and get something that’s stuffy and waterproof.

2. Integrated tongue. If you like dirt, rocks and other debris snuggled up with your feet, stick your tongue out.  For those who don’t, make sure your next trail running shoe has an integrated tongue.  Extra padding in the tongue will make the top of your foot happy.

3. Toe protection.  No steel toe is required, just some nice tough rubber, urethane or other material to protect your toes.  When trail running, chances are you will kick some rocks or tree stumps.  To reduce the risk of angry toes, keep them happy and protected with extra on the front of the toebox.

4. Cushion.  Nothing more, nothing less.  Find the right amount of cushion for you depending on the terrain that you run on.

5. Traction.  Bowling shoes are meant to slide.  Your trail shoes shouldn’t.   Remember pavement is flat, the trail isn’t.  Look for an outsole with climbing and descending traction. You need something that has some “meat on the bone” and offers durability in the high wear areas – look for meaty lugs!  Also, consider the variety of surfaces that you will encounter – rocks, mud, grass and dirt.  You never know what mother nature will toss your way – make sure your shoes are ready with adequate traction.

6. Light-weight.  You’re carrying enough, that might be why you’re running.  The last thing you want is clunky heavy shoes to add weight to your ascent or descent.  Lighten up, and you can start with your shoes.  Most good light-weight trail running shoes are between 11-15 ounces.

7.  Notice the laces.  Think seatbelt.  Right, I didn’t wear one in the 70′s either.  But think how nice it would have been to stay in one place when that vinyl seat heated up in the Chevelle and you started to slip.  The same goes for your feet; you don’t want your feet moving around without your permission.  Look for integrated lacing for your foot’s safety and security.  Buckle up, it’s also the law.

8. Leave some room for the toes.  Think first-class in an airplane – make them comfortable and they’ll become frequent fliers.  Remember, when you run, your feet will swell and when it heats up in the toebox, its like flying coach…you didn’t claim the armrests and it’s a 4-hour flight.  Typically you want a trail shoe that is 1/2 size larger than you normally wear.

9.  Gotta have the look.  Pick the right color, even if you have to pay a little more.  Guys, those hot pink shoes are probably on sale for a reason.  You need to like to look at them on the shelf and especially when you’re running.

10. Above all, gotta love the way they fit and feel.  Try a pair on.  Get the right fit.  Buy Shoes at Zappos.com and take advantage of Free Overnight Shipping – you like ‘em, keep ‘em – you don’t, send them back.

Now go put them to use and Happy Trails.