California Track & Running News Apr-June 2013, VOLUME 39 NUMBER 2 | Page 18

CTRN-APR-JUNE_2013--1_Layout 1 4/24/13 8:17 AM Page 18

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BEST
NEW SHOE
SPRING 2013

The Energy Boost has succeeded in firing up the imagination of runners, even though so far it’s those runners who happen to
own running specialty stores. The reason? The Energy Boost is light and really fun to run in. The upper is a sleek, black, stretchy
woven textile, with minimal, no-sew overlays that moves effectively with the foot. The innovative midsole employs a new foam
formulation (created in collaboration with chemical company BASF) that seems to last forever and provides surprising bounce
to the shoe (hence, the “Boost” in its name). Though the geometry is traditional, the shoe has a fast feel, even if it’s not exactly
outright performance oriented. The outersole is minimal with the extra material carved away, though not at the expense of
durability. The combination of innovation, ride, and “cool” factor earned the Energy Boost our award for Best New Shoe.
“The fit was a little tight in the toes, but secure overall. The cushioning is almost trampoline-like, but not out of control. The shaping of the
midsole makes it track pretty well.”
New • Sizes: Men 7–15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 10.2 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.8 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

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BEST SHOE

The Supernova Glide has been a comfortable cruiser
dating back to the earliest Supernova neutral offerings.
Though not as light as many other neutral shoes, it
provides a plush feel to its ride, something that’s
missing in some lighter shoes. The upper is a smallweave mesh that’s a touch more supportive while still
breathable. Effective overlays secure the midfoot while
opening up in the forefoot for a more comfortable and
accommodating fit. The toe bumper offers good
protection and adds durability. The midsole continues
with adiPrene handling extra cushioning, though with
different formulations in the heel and forefoot. The
ForMotion cassette stabilizes the foot while also
serving as an effective crashpad. The outersole continues
with Continental® rubber for durability and traction.
Runners should expect continued performance from
this proven high-mileage shoe.
“Snug heel and arch, roomy toes. Responsive and
stable cushioning. Durable high-mileage shoes—what
I’ve expected from the Supernova Glide.”
Updates the Supernova Glide 4 • Sizes: Men
6.5–15,16,17,18,19,20; Women 4.5–14 • Weight: 12.2 oz.
(men’s size 11); 9.6 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semicurved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel
board • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet
with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

NEUTRAL
SPRING 2013

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It’s hard to remember when Mizuno’s lineup didn’t
include the Wave Rider. That longevity is due to
Mizuno’s laser-like focus on providing both a great fit
and a great ride. In this round, the upper looks new
with a closed mesh that seems stiffer, enabling the
traditional midfoot overlays to be replaced with fewer
(and lighter) welded ones. Overlays at the heel and toe
continue to provide the same structure as before. The
shape of the midsole has been subtly altered, though
our weartesters confirm that it provides the same
performance as did the 15. The outersole is X-10
rubber with the SmoothRide hinged element in the
forefoot, encouraging a snappy toe-off. Fans won’t be
disappointed, and new users will likely join the ranks.
The triple threat of responsive ride, great fit, and highmileage durability earned the Wave Rider 16 our award
for Best Shoe in the Neutral category.
“Fit well; comfortable; no loose or tight spots. Nice
cushioning, not overly squishy, with a responsive feel.
They are comfortable, durable, light, and cute. Highly recommend!”
Updates the Wave Rider 15 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16
(D,2E); Women 6–12 (2A,B,D) • Weight: 11.7 oz. (men’s
size 11); 9.1 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for:
medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

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This time out, the Triumph joins Saucony’s 8mm parade, featuring the same performance geometry as many of its mainline
shoes and rounding out the Saucony performance lineup. The upper is wide-open air mesh with midfoot overlays sandwiched
between the mesh layers, and pared back to minimize weight. The overlays at the heel and toe feature a traditional construction
and are positioned to anchor the upper to the midsole. The midsole is a paradox—a generous stack height (read: well
cushioned) with a low profile feel, thanks to its 8mm heel-to-toe drop. The outersole is the proven carbon r X