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Created page with "{{DISPLAYTITLE:Brooks PureConnect 3 Review}} The PureConnect is the thinnest and lightest of the road shoes in the Pure range, though the difference between it and the Brook..."
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Brooks PureConnect 3 Review}}
The PureConnect is the thinnest and lightest of the road shoes in the Pure range, though the difference between it and the [[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] is relatively minor. The PureConnect is part way between a true minimalist shoe and the massively cushioned [[Minimax]] shoes. I found the PureConnect to have less cushioning than I expected given its weight, and I found that the cut outs in the midsole made the shoe feel a little lumpy. The PureConnect is not a bad shoe, but you can get the same cushioning with less weight, or the same weight with more cushioning, and either would be better. Like other shoes in the Pure range, foam breaks down more quickly than I expected, becoming softer. I generally found the shoe better once it had started to wear, but of course it continues to degrade. I found no significant problems with the PureConnect , though I'd advise cutting away the 'Nav Band' that puts pressure on the top of your foot. {{H:WhatToLookForInShoes}}
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|}
=Characteristics=
* {{H:WhyBuy}}. The PureConnect could make a good shoe for someone looking to transition from a more traditional shoe, though I prefer the [[Saucony Kinvara]] as it's lighter and more softly cushioned. I'd also suggest looking at the [[Hoka Clifton]] is lighter and much better cushioned, or the [[Altra One2| Altra One<sup>2</sup>]] which is lot lighter and more softly cushioned. For a faster shoe, try the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] which provides similar cushioning at a much lower weight.
* {{H:cushioning}}. The PureConnect is reasonably cushioned, but I've been surprised how rapidly the midsole became softer. Overall the PureConnect is a little on the firm side given its weight; you can get the same cushioning with less weight, or the same weight with much better cushioning. I also found that the gaps in the outsole could be felt when running, creating a slightly lumpy sensation. I don't think it's enough to cause much of a problem, but it's something to consider.
* {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect has 3mm of drop, but this becomes zero-drop once you're in it.
* {{H:structure}}. The PureConnect uses a single density of foam with some slight grooves to improve flexibility. The area under the arch is slightly raised, which could put pressure on the arch and cause problems as arches are strong when loaded from above, but can be broken easily by pressure from below. The Pure range of shoes includes a "Toe Flex" which is a thinning of the midsole at the front that Brooks claim "allows the big toe to function independently", though I couldn't nice any effect. The heel of the Pure shoes is more rounded than most traditional shoes, which is a good thing.
* {{H:flexibility}}. The PureConnect is nicely flexible due to the midsole groves and the gaps in the outsole.
* {{H:outsole}}. The hard rubber outsole covers most of the underside of the shoe. This outsole improves longevity and grip, but adds to the weight. As you can see from the pictures, the outsole is in patches which help keep the shoe flexible. The outsole rubber used here is a nice combination of hard wearing and grippy, and is fairly thick. This outsole increases the weight of the shoe, and the longevity it brings probably won't help much given the way the foam midsole breaks down.
* {{H:shape}}. The shoe of the shoe is closer to the human foot than many designs, but it's not right and I'd recommend [[Shoe Modifications| cutting open the toe box for comfort]].
* {{H:upper}}. The upper is inflexible and there are seams that could rub and create issues for some runners. The ankle opening is well padded, but the rest is thin and breathes reasonably well. The PureConnect has Brooks' "Nav Band" which is an elasticated band over the middle of the shoe, going from where the upper meets the arch of the foot, over the top and down to the outside edge of the midsole. This elasticated band is intended to keep the shoe secure, but it just puts extra pressure on the top of the foot. I didn't like this band at all, but it's easy to cut it open where it crosses the tongue. Overall the shoe is slightly less comfortable than average.
* {{H:tongue}}. The PureConnect has a tongue that is attached to the inside of the upper, with the outside free, a combination that I like. It keeps the tongue in place without the problems of a sock style upper. The tongue has a slight degree of soft padding which should be enough for most runners.
* {{H:lacing}}. The laces are bumpy, which helps them stay tied, but also makes it trickier to get the tension right when tying the shoe. The laces also have an asymmetric pattern, which I didn't find made any difference when compared with other shoes.
* {{H:heelcounter}}. The heel counter is quite solid, with hard edges that might cause some people problems. I think it could dig in quite badly if you twisted your ankle.
{{BuyShoes|RW=T|RRS=T|AZ=T}}
{{ShoeGraphs}}
=Comparisons=
Here are some direct comparisons with its potential competition.
==PureCadence, PureConnect, & PureFlow==
The Brooks Pure range of shoes is intended to be more minimalist, but they're only minimal when compared to a traditional shoe like the Asics GT 2000. I would consider Pure shoes as in the "balanced" category that is part way between minimalist and the massively cushioned Minimax style of shoes. The Pure range all have some over engineering, with pointless features such as the "Nav Band" that puts extra pressure on the top of the foot. It seems that most shoe manufacturers feel the need to justify their prices with some type of gimmick rather than producing simple, effective shoes, which is a shame. To evaluate the three shoes, it's best to look at how they compare to the PureFlow, which is the middle ground.
* '''[[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] and [[Brooks PureCadence| PureCadence]]'''. The PureCadence has a slightly thicker midsole than the PureFlow, but it's also a little firmer. The PureCadence also adds a Medial Post which makes the shoe a little firmer, but this breaks down remarkably quickly.
* '''[[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] and [[Brooks PureConnect| PureConnect]]'''. The PureConnect has a little less cushioning than the PureFlow, though they are remarkably similar, even when wearing one on each foot. I did notice that the gaps in the midsole of the PureFlow do create a slightly uneven, "lumpy" feel underfoot.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|}
==PureConnect and Hoka Clifton==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Hoka Clifton]], the Clifton wins out due to its lightness and cushioning.
* Similarities
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:flexibility}}. The PureConnect is more flexible.
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has slightly more grip.
** {{H:price}}. The PureConnect is cheaper.
** {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect is effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:availability}}. The PureConnect is more widely stocked.
* Advantage Hoka Clifton
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Clifton has far thicker, softer cushioning and does not have any problems with the lumpy feel that the PureConnect suffers from.
** {{H:weight}}. The Clifton is lighter.
** {{H:trails}}. The Clifton has a little more protection on rocky trails.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton top]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton bottom]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton inside]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Altra One2 ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Altra One2| Altra One<sup>2</sup>]], the Altra wins on weight and cushioning, but the PureConnect will last longer:
* Similarities
** {{H:drop}}. Both shoes are effectively zero-drop.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:price}}. The PureConnect is cheaper, especially when longevity is considered.
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has more grip.
** {{H:availability}}. The PureConnect is widely stocked.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
** {{H:longevity}}. The PureConnect lasts longer. (The Altra wears out distressingly quickly.)
* Advantage [[Altra One2| Altra One2]]
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Altra is a lot more softly cushioned.
** {{H:weight}}. The Altra is a lot lighter.
** {{H:shape}}. The Altra has a much better toe box.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Altra is more flexible.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Altra-One2-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 top]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 bottom]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 inside]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Saucony Virrata ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Saucony Virrata]], the Virrata has similar cushioning with less weight:
* Similarities
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
** {{H:drop}}. Both shoes are effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:cushioning}}. The PureConnect and the Virrata are similarly cushioned.
** {{H:availability}}. The both are reasonably easy to find.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has more grip.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
* Advantage [[Saucony Virrata]]
** {{H:weight}}. The Virrata is a lot lighter.
** {{H:price}}. The Virrata is a little cheaper.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Virrata is more flexible.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata top]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata bottom]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata inside]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Asics Gel Hyper Speed ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] the Hyper Speed has similar cushioning but is vastly lighter:
* Similarities
** {{H:cushioning}}. Cushioning is similar, though the PureConnect is thicker and firmer.
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:availability}}. The both are reasonably easy to find.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has slightly more grip, though it's close.
** {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect is effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
* Advantage [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]
** {{H:weight}}. The Hyper Speed is a lot lighter.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Hyper Speed is more flexible.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 top]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 bottom]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 inside]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 outside]]
|}
=A Comparison with other Recommended Shoes=
{{:Shoes-include}}
The PureConnect is the thinnest and lightest of the road shoes in the Pure range, though the difference between it and the [[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] is relatively minor. The PureConnect is part way between a true minimalist shoe and the massively cushioned [[Minimax]] shoes. I found the PureConnect to have less cushioning than I expected given its weight, and I found that the cut outs in the midsole made the shoe feel a little lumpy. The PureConnect is not a bad shoe, but you can get the same cushioning with less weight, or the same weight with more cushioning, and either would be better. Like other shoes in the Pure range, foam breaks down more quickly than I expected, becoming softer. I generally found the shoe better once it had started to wear, but of course it continues to degrade. I found no significant problems with the PureConnect , though I'd advise cutting away the 'Nav Band' that puts pressure on the top of your foot. {{H:WhatToLookForInShoes}}
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|250px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|}
=Characteristics=
* {{H:WhyBuy}}. The PureConnect could make a good shoe for someone looking to transition from a more traditional shoe, though I prefer the [[Saucony Kinvara]] as it's lighter and more softly cushioned. I'd also suggest looking at the [[Hoka Clifton]] is lighter and much better cushioned, or the [[Altra One2| Altra One<sup>2</sup>]] which is lot lighter and more softly cushioned. For a faster shoe, try the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] which provides similar cushioning at a much lower weight.
* {{H:cushioning}}. The PureConnect is reasonably cushioned, but I've been surprised how rapidly the midsole became softer. Overall the PureConnect is a little on the firm side given its weight; you can get the same cushioning with less weight, or the same weight with much better cushioning. I also found that the gaps in the outsole could be felt when running, creating a slightly lumpy sensation. I don't think it's enough to cause much of a problem, but it's something to consider.
* {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect has 3mm of drop, but this becomes zero-drop once you're in it.
* {{H:structure}}. The PureConnect uses a single density of foam with some slight grooves to improve flexibility. The area under the arch is slightly raised, which could put pressure on the arch and cause problems as arches are strong when loaded from above, but can be broken easily by pressure from below. The Pure range of shoes includes a "Toe Flex" which is a thinning of the midsole at the front that Brooks claim "allows the big toe to function independently", though I couldn't nice any effect. The heel of the Pure shoes is more rounded than most traditional shoes, which is a good thing.
* {{H:flexibility}}. The PureConnect is nicely flexible due to the midsole groves and the gaps in the outsole.
* {{H:outsole}}. The hard rubber outsole covers most of the underside of the shoe. This outsole improves longevity and grip, but adds to the weight. As you can see from the pictures, the outsole is in patches which help keep the shoe flexible. The outsole rubber used here is a nice combination of hard wearing and grippy, and is fairly thick. This outsole increases the weight of the shoe, and the longevity it brings probably won't help much given the way the foam midsole breaks down.
* {{H:shape}}. The shoe of the shoe is closer to the human foot than many designs, but it's not right and I'd recommend [[Shoe Modifications| cutting open the toe box for comfort]].
* {{H:upper}}. The upper is inflexible and there are seams that could rub and create issues for some runners. The ankle opening is well padded, but the rest is thin and breathes reasonably well. The PureConnect has Brooks' "Nav Band" which is an elasticated band over the middle of the shoe, going from where the upper meets the arch of the foot, over the top and down to the outside edge of the midsole. This elasticated band is intended to keep the shoe secure, but it just puts extra pressure on the top of the foot. I didn't like this band at all, but it's easy to cut it open where it crosses the tongue. Overall the shoe is slightly less comfortable than average.
* {{H:tongue}}. The PureConnect has a tongue that is attached to the inside of the upper, with the outside free, a combination that I like. It keeps the tongue in place without the problems of a sock style upper. The tongue has a slight degree of soft padding which should be enough for most runners.
* {{H:lacing}}. The laces are bumpy, which helps them stay tied, but also makes it trickier to get the tension right when tying the shoe. The laces also have an asymmetric pattern, which I didn't find made any difference when compared with other shoes.
* {{H:heelcounter}}. The heel counter is quite solid, with hard edges that might cause some people problems. I think it could dig in quite badly if you twisted your ankle.
{{BuyShoes|RW=T|RRS=T|AZ=T}}
{{ShoeGraphs}}
=Comparisons=
Here are some direct comparisons with its potential competition.
==PureCadence, PureConnect, & PureFlow==
The Brooks Pure range of shoes is intended to be more minimalist, but they're only minimal when compared to a traditional shoe like the Asics GT 2000. I would consider Pure shoes as in the "balanced" category that is part way between minimalist and the massively cushioned Minimax style of shoes. The Pure range all have some over engineering, with pointless features such as the "Nav Band" that puts extra pressure on the top of the foot. It seems that most shoe manufacturers feel the need to justify their prices with some type of gimmick rather than producing simple, effective shoes, which is a shame. To evaluate the three shoes, it's best to look at how they compare to the PureFlow, which is the middle ground.
* '''[[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] and [[Brooks PureCadence| PureCadence]]'''. The PureCadence has a slightly thicker midsole than the PureFlow, but it's also a little firmer. The PureCadence also adds a Medial Post which makes the shoe a little firmer, but this breaks down remarkably quickly.
* '''[[Brooks PureFlow| PureFlow]] and [[Brooks PureConnect| PureConnect]]'''. The PureConnect has a little less cushioning than the PureFlow, though they are remarkably similar, even when wearing one on each foot. I did notice that the gaps in the midsole of the PureFlow do create a slightly uneven, "lumpy" feel underfoot.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureCadence-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureCadence 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-Pure-Flow-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks Pure Flow 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|}
==PureConnect and Hoka Clifton==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Hoka Clifton]], the Clifton wins out due to its lightness and cushioning.
* Similarities
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:flexibility}}. The PureConnect is more flexible.
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has slightly more grip.
** {{H:price}}. The PureConnect is cheaper.
** {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect is effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:availability}}. The PureConnect is more widely stocked.
* Advantage Hoka Clifton
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Clifton has far thicker, softer cushioning and does not have any problems with the lumpy feel that the PureConnect suffers from.
** {{H:weight}}. The Clifton is lighter.
** {{H:trails}}. The Clifton has a little more protection on rocky trails.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton top]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton bottom]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton inside]]
|[[File:Hoka-OneOne-Clifton-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Hoka OneOne Clifton outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Altra One2 ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Altra One2| Altra One<sup>2</sup>]], the Altra wins on weight and cushioning, but the PureConnect will last longer:
* Similarities
** {{H:drop}}. Both shoes are effectively zero-drop.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:price}}. The PureConnect is cheaper, especially when longevity is considered.
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has more grip.
** {{H:availability}}. The PureConnect is widely stocked.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
** {{H:longevity}}. The PureConnect lasts longer. (The Altra wears out distressingly quickly.)
* Advantage [[Altra One2| Altra One2]]
** {{H:cushioning}}. The Altra is a lot more softly cushioned.
** {{H:weight}}. The Altra is a lot lighter.
** {{H:shape}}. The Altra has a much better toe box.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Altra is more flexible.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Altra-One2-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 top]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 bottom]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 inside]]
|[[File:Altra-One2-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Altra One2 outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Saucony Virrata ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Saucony Virrata]], the Virrata has similar cushioning with less weight:
* Similarities
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
** {{H:drop}}. Both shoes are effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:cushioning}}. The PureConnect and the Virrata are similarly cushioned.
** {{H:availability}}. The both are reasonably easy to find.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has more grip.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
* Advantage [[Saucony Virrata]]
** {{H:weight}}. The Virrata is a lot lighter.
** {{H:price}}. The Virrata is a little cheaper.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Virrata is more flexible.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata top]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata bottom]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata inside]]
|[[File:Saucony-Virrata-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Saucony Virrata outside]]
|}
==PureConnect and Asics Gel Hyper Speed ==
Comparing the PureConnect and the [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]] the Hyper Speed has similar cushioning but is vastly lighter:
* Similarities
** {{H:cushioning}}. Cushioning is similar, though the PureConnect is thicker and firmer.
** {{H:shape}}. Neither has a good toe box.
** {{H:availability}}. The both are reasonably easy to find.
* Advantage PureConnect
** {{H:grip}}. The PureConnect has slightly more grip, though it's close.
** {{H:drop}}. The PureConnect is effectively zero-drop.
** {{H:trails}}. The PureConnect has more protection from rocks.
* Advantage [[Asics Gel Hyper Speed]]
** {{H:weight}}. The Hyper Speed is a lot lighter.
** {{H:flexibility}}. The Hyper Speed is more flexible.
** {{H:longevity}}. The extra outsole on the PureConnect improves longevity, but its foam breaks down more quickly.
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 top]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 bottom]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 inside]]
|[[File:Brooks-PureConnect-3-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Brooks PureConnect 3 outside]]
|- valign="top"
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-top.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 top]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-bottom.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 bottom]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-inside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 inside]]
|[[File:Asics-Gel-Hyper-Speed-6-outside.jpg|none|thumb|150px|Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6 outside]]
|}
=A Comparison with other Recommended Shoes=
{{:Shoes-include}}