Over the years, the running shoe industry has continued to use modern science and technology to introduce new categories of shoes to the running world. We have minimalist shoes, maximum cushion shoes, shoes with rocker soles, carbon plated “super shoes” for racing, and even plated “super trainers” for racing or speed days.
A new category which I like to refer to as “responsive trainers” is a little more subtle. These shoes look and have a lot of similarities to regular neutral trainers in their look, weight, and price point. However, unlike the regular neutral trainers that are a great option for running, walking, or being on your feet all day, these shoes are designed specifically for running and have enhanced features making them best for running. Lets compare some of the new styles with their traditional counterparts within their respective brands.
– Clifton Pro: The Clifton Pro is a brand new shoe for Hoka. While it shares an identical heel to toe drop and almost identical weight to the Clifton 11, the Clifton Pro has a much more responsive super critical foam, and a much more aggressive rocker. You will feel more spring while running with the Clifton Pro. The Clifton 11 is still great for easy paces or walking, making them both great shoes that offer and huge variety of color choices.
-Ghost Amp: The Ghost Amp is the newest model from Brooks that features a lighter, faster feel than the Ghost 18, with a higher energy return. It uses PEBA foam infused with their standard DNA foam and a lower heel to toe drop of 6mm versus the Ghost 18 at 10mm. The Ghost 18 is definitely more stable and still an excellent choice for easy running and walking, and currently has many more color options.
– Saucony Azura: The Saucony Azura combines a higher stack height with a high energy foam to give it a bouncy ride while running faster paces. It’s comparison shoe would be the Ride 19, which has a more stable and grounded feel for easier running and walking.
– Asics Novablast 6: The Asics Novablast series has been out for several years now but definitely fits into this category very well. It has a very lightweight, springy foam with a high stack height, making it a great option for fast running and a great feel for any type running. The Cumulus is another Asics shoe with a similar price point, like several of the other shoes I’ve mentioned, has a more stable and grounded feel, making it a good choice for easy running and walking.
The concept of neutral running shoes with more energy return is nothing new. Shoes like the Hoka Mach series and Brooks Hyperion series have been around for a while. However, these models typically are significantly lighter and run more narrow and have much lower stack heights. The mileage life expectancy of running in these is usually lower and they sometimes feel like “less shoe,” which also makes them an excellent choice for gym shoes and casual wear as well, which is why I see them as a different category.
Although I can’t say I’ve had a chance to run in all of these new styles yet, I have tried all of them on and can definitely say the hype is real! I love the spring and bounce of the Clifton Pro and the Azura, and can tell the Ghost Amp is definitely fast! The Novablast is one of my most favorite models and I’ve owned previous models. So, if you’re a runner looking for a little more spring in your stride, stop in the store and try one of these new styles today. I guarantee they will make a great addition to your running shoe rotation!
About the author: A.J. is the Store Manager at AppRunCo – Altoona. He lives in Altoona and has been a competitive runner for over 20 years.
