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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Mizuno Wave Universe 5 Review}}
 
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Mizuno Wave Universe 5 Review}}
−
The Mizuno Wave Universe‏‎ is one of the lightest running shoes available, and it's surprisingly comfortable. The Universe is a great minimalist shoe, and I use it to provide strength training for my feet and ankle muscles. It's rare that I find a shoe in which there's so little I'd change. As long as you accept it for an ultra-lightweight minimalist shoe, it's wonderful.  Of course, being a minimalist shoe it lacks the cushioning that would improve your [[Running Economy]], so it's slower than you might expect. When I want to go faster, I'd rather put on the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]. Some runners have had problems with the upper of the Wave Universe tearing, so be extra careful of getting the right fit. {{H:WhatToLookForInShoes}}
+
The Mizuno Wave Universe is one of the lightest running shoes available, and it's surprisingly comfortable. The Universe is a great minimalist shoe, and I use it to provide strength training for my feet and ankle muscles. It's rare that I find a shoe in which there's so little I'd change. As long as you accept it for an ultra-lightweight minimalist shoe, it's wonderful.  Of course, being a minimalist shoe it lacks the cushioning that would improve your [[Running Economy]], so it's slower than you might expect. When I want to go faster, I'd rather put on the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]. Some runners have had problems with the upper of the Wave Universe tearing, so be extra careful of getting the right fit. The lack of outsole in the rear of the shoe means it doesn't last long unless you're a forefoot runner that never touches down with your heel. I've rated it as "Highly Recommended."  {{H:WhatToLookForInShoes}}
 
{| class="wikitable"  
 
{| class="wikitable"  
 
|- valign="top"
 
|- valign="top"
Line 12: Line 12:
 
=Characteristics=
 
=Characteristics=
 
* {{H:WhyBuy}}. The Wave Universe is the best option for someone wanting the lightest shoe available. On the other hand, if you're after something for running fast, then the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] is heavier, but offers more cushioning. The extra cushioning probably gives an improvement in Running Economy that will make you faster in the Hyper Speed than the Wave Universe.  
 
* {{H:WhyBuy}}. The Wave Universe is the best option for someone wanting the lightest shoe available. On the other hand, if you're after something for running fast, then the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] is heavier, but offers more cushioning. The extra cushioning probably gives an improvement in Running Economy that will make you faster in the Hyper Speed than the Wave Universe.  
−
* {{H:cushioning}}.  The Wave Universe‏‎ only has 9-12mm of quite firm foam, so it provides only the most minimal level of cushioning. This level of cushioning is not enough to provide the full improvement in [[Running Economy]] you'd get with a more cushioned shoe.  
+
* {{H:cushioning}}.  The Wave Universe only has 9-12mm of quite firm foam, so it provides only the most minimal level of cushioning. This level of cushioning is not enough to provide the full improvement in [[Running Economy]] you'd get with a more cushioned shoe.  
−
* {{H:drop}}. The Wave Universe‏‎ is only a 3mm of drop, which is not ideal, but does not make a noticeable difference to my foot strike. With a shoe this thin, the main issue with the drop is that I'd like the same level of cushioning at both ends of the shoe.  
+
* {{H:drop}}. The Wave Universe is only a 3mm of drop, which is not ideal, but does not make a noticeable difference to my foot strike. With a shoe this thin, the main issue with the drop is that I'd like the same level of cushioning at both ends of the shoe.  
 
* {{H:structure}}. The Wave Universe looks like it's made of two different foams, with Mizuno's Wave Plate between them. However, both types of foam have the same density, and there's no plastic plate involved. This appears to be an illusion to justify the 'wave' that's in the name. I think this is a good thing, as the simplicity of a single density foam works better than multiple densities in most cases. A wave plate might improve cushioning, but it's doubtful it would justify its weight.  
 
* {{H:structure}}. The Wave Universe looks like it's made of two different foams, with Mizuno's Wave Plate between them. However, both types of foam have the same density, and there's no plastic plate involved. This appears to be an illusion to justify the 'wave' that's in the name. I think this is a good thing, as the simplicity of a single density foam works better than multiple densities in most cases. A wave plate might improve cushioning, but it's doubtful it would justify its weight.  
−
* {{H:flexibility}}. The Wave Universe‏‎ is even more flexible than you'd expect given its thinness.
+
* {{H:flexibility}}. The Wave Universe is even more flexible than you'd expect given its thinness.
−
* {{H:outsole}}. There are patches of outsole made of a high grip, durable material. As you can see from the pictures, these patches are well placed on the forefoot, but the rear patch will only help someone who has an extreme heal strike.  
+
* {{H:outsole}}. There are patches of outsole made of a high grip, durable material. As you can see from the pictures, these patches are well placed on the forefoot, but the rear patch will only help someone who has an extreme heel strike. In practice the rear of the foot wears even faster than you'd expect due to the cutout (seen as a black oval in the images).  
−
* {{H:shape}}. The shoe of the shoe is closer to the human foot than many designs, and I didn't need to to [[Shoe Dissection| cut open the toe box for comfort]].
+
* {{H:shape}}. The shape of the Wave Universe is closer to the human foot than many designs, and I didn't need to [[Shoe Modifications| cut open the toe box for comfort]]. {{H:TryCuttingShoes}}
 
* {{H:upper}}. The upper is extremely thin and slightly stretchy, with no seams. It's a remarkably comfortable upper that does better than many far heavier shoes.  There is only a small amount of padding around the ankle opening, but it's sufficient. I've heard of some runners having problems with the upper tearing, which they think might be due to extra pressure they put in some areas. This means that getting the right fit is especially important with this shoe.  
 
* {{H:upper}}. The upper is extremely thin and slightly stretchy, with no seams. It's a remarkably comfortable upper that does better than many far heavier shoes.  There is only a small amount of padding around the ankle opening, but it's sufficient. I've heard of some runners having problems with the upper tearing, which they think might be due to extra pressure they put in some areas. This means that getting the right fit is especially important with this shoe.  
 
* {{H:tongue}}. The Wave Universe a thin, traditional tongue that is held in places by a tab for the laces. There is no padding, but I found it comfortable.  
 
* {{H:tongue}}. The Wave Universe a thin, traditional tongue that is held in places by a tab for the laces. There is no padding, but I found it comfortable.  
 
* {{H:lacing}}. The thin flat laces worked well, and I had no problems with the laces coming undone while running.  
 
* {{H:lacing}}. The thin flat laces worked well, and I had no problems with the laces coming undone while running.  
−
* {{H:heelcounter}}. There's a tiny tab in the rear of the shoe that's kind of like a heel counter, but even more pointless than most. I realize that it probably only adds a tiny bit of weight, but the shoe would be better without it.
+
* {{H:heelcounter}}. There's a tiny tab in the rear of the shoe that's kind of like a [[Heel Counter]], but even more pointless than most. I realize that it probably only adds a tiny bit of weight, but the shoe would be better without it.
 
{{BuyShoes|RW=T|RRS=T|AZ=T}}
 
{{BuyShoes|RW=T|RRS=T|AZ=T}}
 +
{{ShoeGraphs}}
 
=Comparisons=
 
=Comparisons=
 
Here are some direct comparisons with its potential competition.
 
Here are some direct comparisons with its potential competition.
−
==Wave Universe‏‎ and Asics Gel Hyper Speed==
+
==Wave Universe and Asics Gel Hyper Speed==
−
Comparing the Wave Universe‏‎ and the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]], the Hyper Speed is nearly twice as heavy, but offers a lot more cushioning and the hyper speed is likely to be the faster shoe.   
+
Comparing the Wave Universe and the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]], the Hyper Speed is nearly twice as heavy, but offers a lot more cushioning and the hyper speed is likely to be the faster shoe.   
 
* Similarities
 
* Similarities
 
** {{H:flexibility}}. Both shoes are remarkably flexible.
 
** {{H:flexibility}}. Both shoes are remarkably flexible.
−
* Advantage Wave Universe‏‎
+
* Advantage Wave Universe
−
** {{H:drop}}. The Wave Universe is 3mm drop, the Hyper Speed ‎is 6mm.  
+
** {{H:drop}}. The Wave Universe is 3mm drop, the Hyper Speed is 6mm.  
−
** {{H:grip}}. The Universe‏‎ has more grip in the forefoot.
+
** {{H:grip}}. The Universe has more grip in the forefoot.
 
** {{H:shape}}. The Wave Universe has a better toe box.
 
** {{H:shape}}. The Wave Universe has a better toe box.
 
* Advantage [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]
 
* Advantage [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]
−
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Hyper Speed‏‎ is a lot more softly cushioned.
+
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Hyper Speed is a lot more softly cushioned.
 
** {{H:weight}}. The Wave Universe is a lighter, but the extra cushioning makes the Hyper Speed faster.
 
** {{H:weight}}. The Wave Universe is a lighter, but the extra cushioning makes the Hyper Speed faster.
−
** {{H:longevity}}. The Hyper Speed‏‎ lasts longer.
+
** {{H:longevity}}. The Hyper Speed lasts longer.
 
{| class="wikitable"  
 
{| class="wikitable"  
 
|- valign="top"
 
|- valign="top"
Line 49: Line 50:
 
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 outside]]  
 
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 outside]]  
 
|}
 
|}
−
==Wave Universe‏‎ and Altra One2 ==
+
==Mizuno Wave Universe and Merrell Trail Glove==
−
Comparing the Wave Universe‏‎ and the [[Altra One2| Altra One<sup>2</sup>]], the Altra wins on cushioning and comfort, but the Wave Universe‏‎ is a lot lighter. The two are not direct competition, but if you want something lighter than your current shoes, the Altra is well worth considering.  
+
The Universe and the [[Merrell Trail Glove]] are both minimalist shoes, but they approach minimalism in different ways. The Wave Universe is extremely light weight, and less than half the weight of the Trail Glove. However, the Trail Glove will last far, far longer than the Wave Universe.
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|- valign="top"
 +
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 top]]
 +
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 bottom]]
 +
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 inside]]
 +
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside]]
 +
|- valign="top"
 +
|[[File:Merrell-Trail-Glove-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Merrell Trail Glove 3 top]]
 +
|[[File:Merrell-Trail-Glove-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Merrell Trail Glove 3 bottom]]
 +
|[[File:Merrell-Trail-Glove-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Merrell Trail Glove 3 inside]]
 +
|[[File:Merrell-Trail-Glove-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Merrell Trail Glove 3 outside]]
 +
|}
 +
==Wave Universe and Altra One==
 +
Comparing the Wave Universe and the [[Altra One]], the Altra wins on cushioning and comfort, but the Wave Universe is a lot lighter. The two are not direct competition, but if you want something lighter than your current shoes, the Altra is well worth considering.  
 
* Similarities
 
* Similarities
 
** {{H:grip}}. Neither has much grip.
 
** {{H:grip}}. Neither has much grip.
 
** {{H:availability}}. Neither is widely stocked.
 
** {{H:availability}}. Neither is widely stocked.
−
* Advantage Wave Universe‏‎
+
* Advantage Wave Universe
 
** {{H:weight}}. The Wave Universe is a lot lighter (the lack of cushioning means that the Altra is not much slower.)
 
** {{H:weight}}. The Wave Universe is a lot lighter (the lack of cushioning means that the Altra is not much slower.)
 
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Wave Universe is a bit more flexible.
 
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Wave Universe is a bit more flexible.
−
** {{H:longevity}}. The Wave Universe‏‎ lasts longer.
+
** {{H:longevity}}. The Wave Universe lasts longer.
−
* Advantage [[Altra One2| Altra One2]]
+
* Advantage [[Altra One]]
 
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Altra is a lot more softly cushioned.
 
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Altra is a lot more softly cushioned.
 
** {{H:drop}}. The Universe is 3mm drop, the Altra is zero-drop.
 
** {{H:drop}}. The Universe is 3mm drop, the Altra is zero-drop.
Line 69: Line 84:
 
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside]]
 
|[[File:Mizuno-Wave-Universe-5-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside]]
 
|- valign="top"
 
|- valign="top"
−
|[[File:Altra-One2-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 top]]
+
|[[File:Altra The One 2.5-top.JPG|none|thumb|200px|Altra The One 2.5 top]]
−
|[[File:Altra-One2-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 bottom]]
+
|[[File:Altra The One 2.5-bottom.JPG|none|thumb|200px|Altra The One 2.5 bottom]]
−
|[[File:Altra-One2-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 inside]]
+
|[[File:Altra The One 2.5-inside.JPG|none|thumb|200px|Altra The One 2.5 inside]]
−
|[[File:Altra-One2-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 outside]]
+
|[[File:Altra The One 2.5-outside.JPG|none|thumb|200px|Altra The One 2.5 outside]]
 
|}
 
|}
 
=A Comparison with other Recommended Shoes=
 
=A Comparison with other Recommended Shoes=
 
{{:Shoes-include}}
 
{{:Shoes-include}}

Latest revision as of 06:52, 4 January 2017

The Mizuno Wave Universe is one of the lightest running shoes available, and it's surprisingly comfortable. The Universe is a great minimalist shoe, and I use it to provide strength training for my feet and ankle muscles. It's rare that I find a shoe in which there's so little I'd change. As long as you accept it for an ultra-lightweight minimalist shoe, it's wonderful. Of course, being a minimalist shoe it lacks the cushioning that would improve your Running Economy, so it's slower than you might expect. When I want to go faster, I'd rather put on the Asics Gel Hyper Speed. Some runners have had problems with the upper of the Wave Universe tearing, so be extra careful of getting the right fit. The lack of outsole in the rear of the shoe means it doesn't last long unless you're a forefoot runner that never touches down with your heel. I've rated it as "Highly Recommended." (I use The Science of Running Shoes as the basis of how I test running shoes and what you should look for in a running shoe.)

Mizuno Wave Universe 5 top
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 bottom
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 inside
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside

1 Cushioning, Running Economy, & Performance

The Science of Running Shoes indicates that some cushioning improves Running Economy, which will reduce the effort required to run. I found that the lack of cushioning in the Wave Universe clearly changes my running stride, and even though it's amazingly light, I was slower than I would be is a slightly heavier, but better cushioned shoe like the Asics Gel Hyper Speed.

2 Characteristics

  • Why you’d buy it. The Wave Universe is the best option for someone wanting the lightest shoe available. On the other hand, if you're after something for running fast, then the Asics Gel Hyper Speed is heavier, but offers more cushioning. The extra cushioning probably gives an improvement in Running Economy that will make you faster in the Hyper Speed than the Wave Universe.
  • Cushioning . The Wave Universe only has 9-12mm of quite firm foam, so it provides only the most minimal level of cushioning. This level of cushioning is not enough to provide the full improvement in Running Economy you'd get with a more cushioned shoe.
  • Drop. The Wave Universe is only a 3mm of drop, which is not ideal, but does not make a noticeable difference to my foot strike. With a shoe this thin, the main issue with the drop is that I'd like the same level of cushioning at both ends of the shoe.
  • Structure. The Wave Universe looks like it's made of two different foams, with Mizuno's Wave Plate between them. However, both types of foam have the same density, and there's no plastic plate involved. This appears to be an illusion to justify the 'wave' that's in the name. I think this is a good thing, as the simplicity of a single density foam works better than multiple densities in most cases. A wave plate might improve cushioning, but it's doubtful it would justify its weight.
  • Flexibility. The Wave Universe is even more flexible than you'd expect given its thinness.
  • Outsole. There are patches of outsole made of a high grip, durable material. As you can see from the pictures, these patches are well placed on the forefoot, but the rear patch will only help someone who has an extreme heel strike. In practice the rear of the foot wears even faster than you'd expect due to the cutout (seen as a black oval in the images).
  • Shape. The shape of the Wave Universe is closer to the human foot than many designs, and I didn't need to cut open the toe box for comfort. (I recommend cutting open the toe box of virtually all running shoes, with the exception of a few shoes like some Altra shoes. When you have some worn out shoes, you should try cutting open the toe box. I've found that it's a big improvement, allowing my toes to move naturally and engage for toe off, as well as reducing the possibility of blisters.)
  • Upper. The upper is extremely thin and slightly stretchy, with no seams. It's a remarkably comfortable upper that does better than many far heavier shoes. There is only a small amount of padding around the ankle opening, but it's sufficient. I've heard of some runners having problems with the upper tearing, which they think might be due to extra pressure they put in some areas. This means that getting the right fit is especially important with this shoe.
  • Tongue. The Wave Universe a thin, traditional tongue that is held in places by a tab for the laces. There is no padding, but I found it comfortable.
  • Lacing. The thin flat laces worked well, and I had no problems with the laces coming undone while running.
  • Heel Counter. There's a tiny tab in the rear of the shoe that's kind of like a Heel Counter, but even more pointless than most. I realize that it probably only adds a tiny bit of weight, but the shoe would be better without it.
helping-hand.jpg
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This review was made possible by readers like you buying products via my links. I buy all the products I review through normal retail channels, which allows me to create unbiased reviews free from the influence of reciprocity, or the need to keep vendors happy. It also ensures I don't get "reviewer specials" that are better than the retail versions.


3 Cushioning and Shoes

It's intuitively obvious that the cushioning in a shoe will reduce the impact on your body when running. However, The Science of Running Shoes indicates that the reality is rather more complex. While slight cushioning may reduce the effort needed to run by improving your Running Economy, most scientific research indicates that more cushioning does further improve Running Economy. In addition, cushioning does not generally reduce impact and may actually increase it. This is counterintuitive, but is likely to be due to the way a runners mind and body adapts to softer cushioning. Unfortunately, the scientific evidence is far from complete and it's hard to give clear recommendations. I believe that some runners will prefer more cushioning, while others prefer less, and typically those running further have a fondness for greater cushioning. I also believe that a shoe should be as light as possible, and a shoe should justify its weight with the cushioning it provides. My advice is to decide what level of cushioning you're looking for, and then find the lightest shoes that also fit well and are comfortable.

4 Visualizing the Attributes of the Mizuno Wave Universe

How Mizuno Wave Universe compares showing rearfoot cushioning against the performance penalty of its weight. Upper right is better.
How Mizuno Wave Universe compares showing forefoot cushioning against the performance penalty of its weight. Upper right is better.
How Mizuno Wave Universe compares showing the price against the benefit (cushioning/performance penalty). Upper left is better.
How Mizuno Wave Universe compares showing the loaded drop against the benefit (cushioning/performance penalty). Upper left is better.

5 Comparisons

Here are some direct comparisons with its potential competition.

5.1 Wave Universe and Asics Gel Hyper Speed

Comparing the Wave Universe and the Asics Gel Hyper Speed, the Hyper Speed is nearly twice as heavy, but offers a lot more cushioning and the hyper speed is likely to be the faster shoe.

  • Similarities
    • Flexibility. Both shoes are remarkably flexible.
  • Advantage Wave Universe
    • Drop. The Wave Universe is 3mm drop, the Hyper Speed is 6mm.
    • Grip. The Universe has more grip in the forefoot.
    • Shape. The Wave Universe has a better toe box.
  • Advantage Asics Gel Hyper Speed
    • Cushioning . The Hyper Speed is a lot more softly cushioned.
    • Weight. The Wave Universe is a lighter, but the extra cushioning makes the Hyper Speed faster.
    • Longevity. The Hyper Speed lasts longer.
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 top
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 bottom
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 inside
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside
Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 top
Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 bottom
Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 inside
Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 outside

5.2 Mizuno Wave Universe and Merrell Trail Glove

The Universe and the Merrell Trail Glove are both minimalist shoes, but they approach minimalism in different ways. The Wave Universe is extremely light weight, and less than half the weight of the Trail Glove. However, the Trail Glove will last far, far longer than the Wave Universe.

Mizuno Wave Universe 5 top
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 bottom
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 inside
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside
Merrell Trail Glove 3 top
Merrell Trail Glove 3 bottom
Merrell Trail Glove 3 inside
Merrell Trail Glove 3 outside

5.3 Wave Universe and Altra One

Comparing the Wave Universe and the Altra One, the Altra wins on cushioning and comfort, but the Wave Universe is a lot lighter. The two are not direct competition, but if you want something lighter than your current shoes, the Altra is well worth considering.

  • Similarities
    • Grip. Neither has much grip.
    • Availability. Neither is widely stocked.
  • Advantage Wave Universe
    • Weight. The Wave Universe is a lot lighter (the lack of cushioning means that the Altra is not much slower.)
    • Flexibility. The Wave Universe is a bit more flexible.
    • Longevity. The Wave Universe lasts longer.
  • Advantage Altra One
    • Cushioning . The Altra is a lot more softly cushioned.
    • Drop. The Universe is 3mm drop, the Altra is zero-drop.
    • Shape. The Altra has a slightly better toe box, though it's close.
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 top
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 bottom
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 inside
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 outside
Altra The One 2.5 top
Altra The One 2.5 bottom
Altra The One 2.5 inside
Altra The One 2.5 outside

6 A Comparison with other Recommended Shoes

trophy-winner.jpg

If you're looking for "the best of the best" running shoe, here are my top picks. Of course, the answer will depend a little on what you're looking for, so I have recommendations for various categories.

  • Best All Round Shoe. The Altra Escalante is my current all-round favorite. It has plenty of cushioning for its weight, it has a very springy midsole, it lasts well, and it has a shape that's closer to the shape of a human foot than most shoes. It's a great shoe for any runner, including those Starting to run. It's also a fairly easy shoe to find due to its popularity.
  • Best Maximalist Shoe: If you want something massively cushioned, then I'd recommend the Saucony Kinvara 8. It's remarkably light and remarkably cushioned, beating Hoka at their own game.
  • Best Optimal Shoe: For those looking to trade cushioning for speed, the Nike Zoom Streak LT 3 was my top pick, but the latest version (LT 4) falls short of it's predecessor. There are lots of great optimal running shoes, which provide just enough cushioning with light weight and minimal frills, but all have their weak spots. Probably the best option at the moment is the Altra Vanish-R, which offers great cushioning for just over 5oz/150g.
  • Fastest Shoe: If you really want speed, then check out the Nike Vaporfly 4%. It's light, massively cushioned, and has a carbon fiber plate. Nothing comes close, not even the now defunct New Balance RC5000‏‎ or New Balance RC5000v2‏‎. There are a number of caveats; it's really expensive, it's really hard to find, and there's a significant injury risk.
  • Best Minimalist Shoe: Merrell Trail Glove. I recommend the trail glove for road running in spite of the 'trail' moniker. It's not a fast shoe by any means, but it's comfortable and will last well.
  • All Terrain Shoe. For trail running, I've become a fan of Altra, and I think their best shoe is the the Altra Timp, though the Altra Lone Peak is really close.
  • Honorable Mention: It's not really a running shoe, but the Vivobarefoot Ra is comfortable, minimalist and can more or less pass as a dress shoe. I've worn mine to weddings with a suit and they've not looked out of place. You can run in the Ra, but the leather means it doesn't breathe well.

For a more detailed on running shoes see the Recommendations for Best Running Shoes. This table lists the key attributes of What to Look for in Running Shoes. For more detailed information, on the shoes see detailed shoe comparison.

Full Review

Brand Name Rating Recommended
price 		Benefit Weight
(oz) 		Penalty
(sec/mile) 		Forefoot
Thickness 		Heel
Thickness 		Loaded Drop
mm 		Cushioning Flexibility
Saucony Type A Review Saucony A/A7 Recommended $100 6.4 6.7 12.1 19 22 1 4.3 7
Saucony Type A6 Review Saucony A6 Highly Recommended $100 8.2 6.1 9.5 17 21 4 5.0 7
Saucony Type A8 Review Saucony A8 Highly Recommended $90 7.5 6.2 9.7 19 20 -1 4.7 7
Adidas Adios Boost 2 Review Adidas Adios Worth considering $140 4.7 8.6 13.4 17 27 11 4.0 6
Hoka Bondi 5 Review Hoka Bondi Recommended $150 6.1 11.6 18.1 38 42 5 7.1 2
Hoka Clayton 2 Review Hoka Clayton2 Highly Recommended $150 9.1 8.3 12.9 23 28 1 7.5 5
Hoka Clifton 4 Review Hoka Clifton4 Worth considering $130 7.7 9.3 14.5 30 35 10 7.2 3
ON Cloudflash Review On Cloud Cloudflash Worth considering $180 4.4 8.3 14.6 19 26 7 3.7 6
On Cloudracer Review On Cloud Cloudracer Worth considering $130 5.7 8.2 12.8 19 27 5 4.7 7
ON Cloud X Review On Cloud CloudX Not recommended $140 4.5 8.3 16.3 21 27 7 3.8 7
Mizuno Wave Cruise Review Mizuno Cruise Worth considering $120 6.6 5.9 12.5 17 20 7 3.9 6
Newton Distance IV Review Newton Distance Worth considering $155 7.5 9.1 14.2 26 31 3 6.8 5
Asics Gel DS Racer 10 Review Asics DS Racer Worth considering $110 8.2 7.0 10.9 21 26 6 5.8 5
Altra Duo Review Altra Duo Recommended $130 6.0 8.4 13.1 29 29 1 5.0 5
Mizuno Wave Ekiden 8 Review Mizuno Ekiden Worth considering $115 5.7 5.7 14.6 13 18 6 3.2 8
Saucony Endorphin 2 Review Saucony Endorphin 2 Worth considering $115 8.0 5.1 9.6 15 13 -1 4.1 8
Adidas Energy Boost Review Adidas Energy Worth considering $160 7.2 10.0 15.6 20 30 7 7.2 5
Altra Escalante Review Altra Escalante Best of the Best $130 9.1 8.7 13.5 28 25 -1 7.9 6
Altra Escalante 1.5 Review Altra Escalante 1.5 Best of the Best $130 8.2 9.0 14.0 26 27 -1 7.4 7
Saucony Fastwitch Review Saucony Fastwitch Highly Recommended $90 9.5 7.1 11.1 20 22 4 6.8 7
Topo Fli-Lyte 2 Review Topo Fli-Lyte2 Highly Recommended $100 6.7 9.1 14.2 24 26 3 6.1 5
Reebok Floatride Run Review Reebok Floatride Worth considering $150 7.7 9.6 14.9 28 34 10 7.4 5
Saucony Freedom Review Saucony Freedom Recommended $160 5.4 10.7 16.6 25 29 3 5.8 6
Skechers GORun 4 Review Skechers GORun Not recommended $100 6.1 7.5 11.7 15 23 3 4.5 7
Skechers GOrun Ultra 2 Review Skechers GRU Worth considering $90 7.5 10.0 15.6 28 34 8 7.5 4
Asics GT 2000 Review Asics GT 2000 Not recommended $120 4.8 11.2 17.4 28 35 5 5.4 2
New Balance Hanzo S Review New Balance Hanzo Worth considering $110 7.6 6.9 10.7 21 19 2 5.2 5
Hoka Hupana Review Hoka Hupana Recommended $115 6.1 8.9 13.9 31 36 7 5.4 4
Asics Gel Hyper Speed 7 Review Asics Hyper Speed Highly Recommended $75 10.9 6.3 9.8 22 26 5 6.8 6
Altra Instinct 4.0 Review Altra Instinct 4.0 Worth considering $120 6.0 9.8 15.3 29 25 -1 5.9 5
Asics Tarther Kainos 3 Review Asics Kainos Worth considering $130 10.0 6.9 10.7 17 27 9 6.8 6
Altra King MT 1.5 Review Altra King MT Recommended $140 7.5 10.7 16.7 19 21 3 8.0 5
Saucony Kinvara 8 Review Saucony Kinvara 8 Best of the Best $110 9.3 8.6 13.4 26 31 3 8.0 5
Altra Lone Peak 3.5 Review Altra Lone Peak Highly Recommended $120 4.2 11.4 17.7 24 25 4 4.8 5
Nike Zoom Streak LT 3 Review Nike LT3 Best of the Best $80 9.8 5.4 8.4 16 21 5 5.3 7
Nike Zoom Streak LT 4 Review Nike LT4 Recommended $90 8.5 5.5 8.5 15 21 3 4.6 6
Nike LunarSpider R5 Review Nike LunarSpider Recommended $125 6.9 6.7 10.4 17 21 3 4.6 6
Hoka Mafate Speed Review Hoka Mafate Best of the Best $170 7.6 11.9 18.5 39 40 4 9.0 1
Pearl Izumi EM Road N0 v2 Review Pearl N0 Highly Recommended $100 7.9 6.5 10.1 14 20 4 5.2 8
Saucony Nomad Review Saucony Nomad Worth considering $110 4.3 10.5 17.2 25 27 2 4.5 4
Hoka Odyssey Review Hoka Odyssey Highly Recommended $130 8.5 9.4 14.6 37 45 5 8.0 3
Altra Olympus 2.5 Review Altra Olympus Highly Recommended $150 4.6 11.8 18.4 35 34 0 5.4 6
Altra One 3.0 Review Altra One Recommended $100 6.1 8.8 13.7 23 23 0 5.4 6
Altra Paradigm 4.0 Review Altra Paradigm Highly Recommended $150 5.3 11.0 17.1 28 30 5 5.8 8
Asics Piranha SP 5 Review Asics Piranha Recommended $100 10.1 4.2 6.5 11 15 3 4.2 9
Brooks PureFlow 5 Review Brooks PureFlow Worth considering $110 6.0 9.7 15.1 26 29 5 5.8 8
Salming Race Review Salming Race Worth considering $130 6.9 6.5 10.1 16 19 4 4.5 6
Altra Escalante Racer Review Altra Racer Highly Recommended $140 6.6 7.6 11.8 24 26 6 5.0 8
New Balance RC1600 v2 Review New Balance RC1600 Highly Recommended $110 8.8 5.6 8.7 15 21 5 4.9 8
New Balance RC5000v2 Review New Balance RC5000v2 Best of the Best $125 14.2 4.0 6.2 13 21 6 5.7 7
Skechers GoRun Ride 3 Review Skechers Ride Worth considering $85 5.9 8.5 13.2 18 28 6 5.0 8
Nike RN Distance 2 Review Nike RNDist2 Worth considering $120 8.0 9.2 14.3 25 28 4 7.4 7
Inov-8 RoadXTreme 220 Review Inov-8 RXT-220 Worth considering $120 5.2 8.0 18.2 14 17 3 4.2 8
Salomon Sense Ride Review Salomon Sense Worth considering $120 8.5 10.0 15.6 26 29 6 8.5 0
Altra Solstice Review Altra Solstice Highly Recommended $90 7.1 8.1 12.5 23 25 0 5.7 5
Topo ST-2 Review Topo ST-2 Highly Recommended $90 8.2 7.3 11.4 20 18 0 6.0 7
Hoka Stinson Lite Review Hoka Stinson Highly Recommended $160 7.3 11.6 18.1 35 40 6 8.5 0
Altra Superior Altra Superior Highly Recommended $110 5.6 9.9 15.5 21 25 -1 5.5 4
Adidas Takumi Sen 3 Review Adidas Takumi Sen 3 Highly Recommended $160 7.7 6.6 10.2 17 21 4 5.1 5
Topo Terraventure Topo Terraventure Review Pending $110 2.6 10.8 27.5 24 24 0 2.8 10
Altra Timp Review Altra Timp Best of the Best $130 3.7 11.6 18.1 30 31 -1 4.3 6
Altra Torin 2.0 Review Altra Torin Worth considering $125 3.4 9.6 20.7 30 25 1 3.3 9
Altra Torin 3.5 Review Altra Torin 3.5 Worth considering $125 5.8 9.3 14.5 27 28 0 5.4 8
Hoka Tracer Review Hoka Tracer Recommended $130 7.2 7.4 11.5 21 24 2 5.3 5
Merrell Trail Glove 4 Review Merrell Trail Glove 4 Best of the Best $100 3.4 8.4 23.8 13 13 0 2.8 10
Topo Tribute Review Topo Tribute Recommended $100 5.9 7.3 11.4 20 18 -1 4.3 6
Mizuno Wave Universe 5 Review Mizuno Universe Highly Recommended $125 10.7 3.1 10.6 9 12 1 3.3 9
Altra Vanish-R Review Altra Vanish-R Recommended $100 16.1 5.3 8.2 19 21 4 8.5 6
Merrell Vapor Glove 3 Review Merrell Vapor Glove 3 Highly Recommended $85 2.1 6.1 27.6 6 5 0 1.3 10
Nike Vaporfly 4% Review Nike Vaporfly Best of the Best $250 10.4 7.2 11.2 25 37 8 7.5 2
New Balance Vazee Pace Review New Balance Vazee Pace Worth considering $110 6.0 8.6 13.4 18 24 6 5.2 5
Asics TartherZeal 3 Review Asics Zeal Worth considering $140 10.9 6.3 9.8 17 27 9 6.8 6
Saucony Zealot 3 Review Saucony Zealot3 Recommended $130 8.9 9.5 14.8 29 32 4 8.5 6
Nike Zoom Fly Review Nike Zoom Fly Worth considering $150 8.3 8.7 13.5 29 36 8 7.2 3

It's not a running shoe, but I love the Hoka Tor Ultra hiking boot and I've tested the Altra Lone Peak Boot, the Hoka Tor Speed 2, and the Inov-8 Roclite 325 hiking boots
Older shoe reviews: Saucony Hattori Review, Mizuno Cursoris Review, Skechers GO Bionic 2 Review, Hoka Clifton Review, Saucony Virrata 2 Review, Brooks PureCadence 3 Review, Brooks PureConnect 3 Review, Brooks PureFlow 3 Review, Skechers GO Bionic 2 Review, New Balance 980 Review, Brooks Transcend 2 Review, Hoka Huaka Review, Patagonia EVERlong Review, Asics 33-DFA Review, Hoka Conquest Review, Saucony Cortana Review, Puma Faas 100 R Review, Saucony Fastwitch Review, Nike Free Review, Asics Gel Lyte 33 Review, Skechers GOmeb Speed Review, Skechers GOrun Ultra Road Review, Nike LunaRacer Review, Altra Paradigm Review.

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