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It’s not only crazy lightweight, but also strong and water-resistant. To get the best of both worlds, look for Nike’s VaporWeave material. However, those runners who train in very cold or wet conditions may need to have at least one pair of shoes that have a more protective upper to protect their feet from the elements. Your feet are likely to get sweaty on long runs, and increased airflow can help reduce the risk of chafing and blisters. Most distance runners will want to seek out a soft, breathable upper. Now used in the Nike ZoomX midsole, it delivers 85 percent energy return (the greatest of any Nike foam) to give you a propulsive feeling without the extra weight. So, look for high-tech materials such as Nike ZoomX, a foam that was traditionally used in aerospace innovation. You also want to be sure that the cushioning is durable and stays responsive mile after mile. Forefoot cushioning is often advised for those who land on the ball of the foot. Midfoot cushioning is often helpful for those who overpronate and need more stability. You may find cushioning features in different parts of the shoe. Reliable cushioning helps to absorb shock and keep your body bouncy when the miles start to take their toll. Runners who are heel strikers will want a little extra padding in this area. You want a heel cup that is deep enough to avoid slippage.
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A stable heel cup can help you maintain proper alignment. It is not uncommon for your form to deteriorate to some degree at the tail end of a longer run. A wider toe box can also facilitate better airflow around the toes and the ball of the foot to keep your feet cool on warm days, and it may help to accommodate a thicker sock if you run in cold weather. Many distance runners look for a wider toe box in their distance running shoes because a runner's foot can get wider after pounding the pavement mile after mile. So, it can be helpful to consider each element and decide which features are most important for you. The best features for a first-time marathoner will be different from the best features for a seasoned distance runner looking to crush a PR. Multi-directional lugs improve stability even on technical terrain.Įach part of a distance running shoe can be engineered differently to accommodate various gait patterns, weather conditions, running styles, and body weights. Nke React foam and a forefoot Air Zoom unit are an ideal balance of speed and comfort. It offers lightweight, responsive and rugged traction for speed to weave through the trails. Nike Kiger: Lighter than the Wildhorse, the Kiger has a great bounce to it. High energy return and durability mean you can train faster and more often.
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And the upper combines a comfortable sock-like fit and stable lockdown across the midfoot for chasing those times down. A Nike React midsole and carbon fiber plate supply a durable and fast ride to hit those training goals. Nike Zoom Fly: Faster training runs lead to better race times. Its reconstructed upper features a softer layered mesh, expanded toe box, and improved midfoot lockdown that combines with springy Nike React foam and Zoom Air units in the forefoot for durable performance. Nike Pegasus: This shoe is a workhorse with wings. Speedwork improves your cardiovascular health and helps you sustain a faster pace longer to get you ready for race day, or maybe even a personal record. Mixing speed runs - like fartleks, tempos, or repeats - into your training regimen requires the right shoes.
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