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From Fellrnr.com, Running tips
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* {{H:flexibility}}. The 980 has little flexibility. The combination of the hard foam and the outsole the covers the entire surface severely reduces flexibility.
* {{H:outsole}}. The 980 has a continuous layer of hard rubber outsole that covers the entire lower surface of the shoe. This approach has become a little unusual in modern running shoes as it reduces flexibility and increases weight. Modern manufacturing techniques make it quite practical to put the outsole over just of the areas that have the highest abrasion. The texture on the outsole means it has relatively little grip on soft surfaces, or on asphalt that is slightly muddy or has loose gravel.
* {{H:shape}}. The 980 is the classic shoe shape that does not match the human foot, and narrows excessively in the toe box. I'd recommend [[Shoe Modifications| cutting open the toe box open]] to prevent toe problems.{{H:TryCuttingShoes}}
* {{H:upper}}. The upper is inflexible and mostly seamless other than the transition from the unpadded forefoot to the padded rear foot. The ankle opening is nicely padded, and other than the poor shape on the forefoot the 980 is a comfortable shoe.
* {{H:tongue}}. The 980 has a traditional tongue that is has a tab to attach it to the laces. The tongue is well-padded and comfortable.
