NEUTRAL ASICS Gel-Cumulus 13 $105
The 13th round of the Cumulus is a reinvention of a sort, as a significant weight reduction now places the shoe squarely into the mid- weight range, and tweaks to the upper and midsole/outersole improve the articulation with the foot. The upper is still an open mesh with a bit of give to allow it to move with the foot. The addition of Discrete Eyelets, here as three separate pairs of linked eyelets, allows the lacing both to better wrap the contours of the foot and to match its movement. The midsole is SoLyte, ASICS’ high-end foam compound, slightly adjusted in size for better flexibility. An additional, softer layer tops the midsole in the women’s model. The outersole is the same AHAR carbon rubber heel and blown-rubber forefoot as before, but with the addition of Guidance Line, a longitudinal flex groove that gives the shoe a better feel as the toes splay before toe-off.
“This is a very solid shoe [that] feels good for all types of runs. These shoes transition nicely from landing through toe-off with none of the ‘slapping’ or folding that some shoes get. They follow what my feet seem to want to do.”
Updates the Gel-Cumulus 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: men 6–13, 14, 15 (D) and 7–13, 14, 15 (2E, 4E); women 5–13 (2A, B) and 6–13 (D) • Weight: men 12.4 oz. (size 11); women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, SoLyte Strobel board
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 13 $130
The Nimbus is ASICS’ deluxe neutral shoe whose first and last names could well be “Cushioning.” The upper continues its pursuit of refined fit and comfort with BioMorphic Fit panels in the midfoot (medially) and more forward (laterally) to stretch better with the foot’s movement throughout the footstrike. The fit is also aided by independent Discrete Eyelets, aligned asymmetrically for secure lacing. A new external heel support is lighter than ever without sacrificing stability. The midsole is sculpted and contoured for better performance, and a new full-length Guidance Line improves flexion to the well-articulated sole, easing the foot toward toe-off. The outersole features a new, lighter rubber compound with a familiar name, AHAR+ (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber), here used in a full-length configuration. The result is comfort, durability and performance.
“This is a shoe you can run in every day, whether your run is short or long. They hold my feet just right, and the cushioning is top-notch.”
Updates the Gel-Nimbus 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: men 6–14, 15, 16 (D) and 7–14, 15, 16 (2E, 4E); women 5–13 (B) and 6–13 (AA, D) • Weight: men 12.5 oz. (size 11); women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, SoLyte Strobel board
Brooks Ghost 4 $100
The Ghost has evolved significantly from its introduction as a performance shoe to today’s well-cushioned performer. The midsole has been resculpted, but offers a generous slab of EVA and cushioning elements. The incorporation of Brooks’ DNA has improved the ride by making it a little more responsive while providing better protection. The outersole provides the expected traction; the minor adjustments to the lug patterns look different but perform similarly. The heel is more articulated, which makes the transition from heel to toe a bit better. The upper continues to fit well. Substituting suede overlays makes the bunion window friendlier since the hard edges are eliminated. The addition of a lacing loop on the tongue (cleverly called Tongue Tied) prevents uncomfortable creeping. Attention to detail has added value to the Ghost, securing its place in Brooks’ lineup.
“Secure fit. I found the cushioning in my comfort zone, not overly squishy or spongy for my taste. Nice medium weight, but beefy enough to feel good on a long run. Brooks continues to produce quality running shoes.”
Updates the Ghost 3 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: men 7–13, 14, 15 (D) and 8–13, 14, 15 (B, 2E); women 5–12 (B) and 6–12 (2A, D) • Weight: men 12.6 oz. (size 11); women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board
Brooks Glycerin 9 $130
The Glycerin continues as the flagship of Brooks’ neutral shoe line, with significant weight loss aiding performance. The upper sports thinner overlays throughout the forefoot, softening the feel without compromising support. The midfoot has a more pliable TPU saddle, which makes the eyestay conform better to the foot’s contours. The midsole continues with the two-piece cushy foam, and a new full-length layer of DNA adds its resilient, shock-absorbing qualities. The ride is quite responsive, with good flexibility. The outersole adds to the flexibility with new flex grooves and four small, separate pods that open up the entire forefoot. The heel geometry is reshaped, adding lateral mobility for the crashpad. It decouples better and moves more naturally, aiding the articulation of the shoe’s heel in response to and for the foot. The result is a well-cushioned, high-mileage trainer.
“The Glycerins have a supportive feel, yet are soft and bouncy. I’m recovering from surgery and the shoes are comfortable. Toe flexion was not stiff; no fit issues or otherwise. I wore other shoes, but always returned to the Brooks for the best comfort. I would recommend these shoes.”
Updates the Glycerin 8 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: men 7–13, 14, 15 (D) and 8–13, 14, 15 (B, 2E); women 5–12 (B) and 6–12 (2A, D) • Weight: men 12.5 oz. (size 11); women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board
Brooks Summon 3 $85
The Summon continues to offer performance at an economical price. The effective midsole/outersole combination of rear and forefoot Hydroflow within Bio S-257 (a biodegradable version of Brooks’ S-257 foam) is “chromatically enhanced” (it’s a new color), but the performance remains as good as ever. So good, in fact, that its reliable performance has birthed a new trail shoe built on the same platform. The upper is a new design of pliable mesh with synthetic leather overlays and the usual minor adjustments. One of them, a new full rand, adds a bit more support than the Summon 2 had. With its standout combination of moderate weight, responsive cushioning and reasonable price, the Summon 3 again earned honors as our Best Value.
“Fit nicely through the arch with plenty of room up front. Good layer of cushioning, with a good amount of responsiveness. Not mushy or with a ‘slappy’ transition. I was more than adequately impressed with the shoe. It fared a little better than its top-of- the-line sibling — except in plushness. Quite a good value.”
Updates the Summon 2 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13, 14, 15 (B, D); Women 6–12 (B, D) • Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.2 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board
GET ACTIVE! 29
BEST VALUE FALL 2011
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