These shoes are great I got them but the front tore off. But I recommend these for parkour. Because there great for it!I'm loving my new sneakers. I'm lucky to be able to wear children's size. I've received lots of compliments on just 2 times of wearing them. Yay / oh, super fast shipping too!
Showing posts with label black running shoes women. Show all posts
Showing posts with label black running shoes women. Show all posts
Adidas CF232 Men's Terrex Fast X Mid GTX Boot Reviews
Maybe after trying this style on in the store I ordered a half-size bigger, but these are very comfortable
hiking boots! I mostly used them this winter for getting around in the snow. They're waterproof so my
feet stayed dry and warm. I like the styling and the neat lace up mechanism. No laces dragging around
to get muddy or wet!
At that point I wrote to adidas customer service and explained the trouble I was having. I pointed out that, as I was hundreds of miles from home in the middle of an 800 mile trek I would be in huge trouble if these boots gave out. The useless response from adidas advised me to try to return the bots to the original retailer (Amazon) and said if I had trouble there adidas would provide an RMA for a return and credit. The clerk obviously never read the pertinent information in my email.
At any rate, a few days later when I arrived in Soledad and removed my boots one of the laces snapped. Since this is a closed-loop fast-lace system, replacement is impossible. I just had time to go online to Amazon and order a new pair of New Balance Dunham boots for next-day delivery to Greenfield, my next stop. I cut off the shredded portion of the broken lace, backed it off a couple of eyelets and tied an old-fashioned knot, which surprised me by holding out for the 14 mile walk. Before leaving Greenfield for King City I mailed the adidas boots home so that I could deal with returning them to Amazon/adidas when I returned home in another month plus. To Amazon's credit when I contacted Customer Service they waived the usual return period and accepted my return for a full refund.
I do have to give the adidas Terrex credit for holding up well other than the lacing system. The soles and uppers look like new and they were fairly comfortable, although they did pinch my little pinkies badly enough to turn both toenails black. I must say the Dunham by New Balance Men's MCR6630G Cloud Mid Cut Boot surpassed the adidas Terrex in comfort, having a much wider toe box that no longer tortured my little toes. I did have to go back to actually lacing and tying my boots again, but I finished the remaining 500+ miles without further boot-related incident.
So, if you want a comfortable, GoreTex lined, lightweight boot and don't mind a narrow toe box, you could do a lot worse than these adidas so long as you get the ones with normal laces.
hiking boots! I mostly used them this winter for getting around in the snow. They're waterproof so my
feet stayed dry and warm. I like the styling and the neat lace up mechanism. No laces dragging around
to get muddy or wet!
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I live in Washington and I walk my dogs everyday no matter what the weather is so these shoes are perfect. I now have 3 pairs of them. They are very comfrontable and water tight!Best Deals on Adidas CF232 Men's Terrex Fast X Mid GTX Boot
great shoe! I had to take their laces out and put some new ones in. Once I did that the shoe is way more comfortable...I love themHonest reviews on Adidas CF232 Men's Terrex Fast X Mid GTX Boot
I bought these (adidas Terrex Fast X Mid GTX) in January for a planned 800 mile hike of the El Camino Real in California. I was skeptical of the fast-lace system but adidas has always done well by me so I trusted them. After wearing the bots on local hikes for four months I set off on my big journey in May. By the time I had walked from Sonoma to Salinas there was trouble with the laces not releasing from the little "dongles" that clamp them. A few times I thought I would have to cut the laces to get the boots off but with a great deal of effort they eventually came free.At that point I wrote to adidas customer service and explained the trouble I was having. I pointed out that, as I was hundreds of miles from home in the middle of an 800 mile trek I would be in huge trouble if these boots gave out. The useless response from adidas advised me to try to return the bots to the original retailer (Amazon) and said if I had trouble there adidas would provide an RMA for a return and credit. The clerk obviously never read the pertinent information in my email.
At any rate, a few days later when I arrived in Soledad and removed my boots one of the laces snapped. Since this is a closed-loop fast-lace system, replacement is impossible. I just had time to go online to Amazon and order a new pair of New Balance Dunham boots for next-day delivery to Greenfield, my next stop. I cut off the shredded portion of the broken lace, backed it off a couple of eyelets and tied an old-fashioned knot, which surprised me by holding out for the 14 mile walk. Before leaving Greenfield for King City I mailed the adidas boots home so that I could deal with returning them to Amazon/adidas when I returned home in another month plus. To Amazon's credit when I contacted Customer Service they waived the usual return period and accepted my return for a full refund.
I do have to give the adidas Terrex credit for holding up well other than the lacing system. The soles and uppers look like new and they were fairly comfortable, although they did pinch my little pinkies badly enough to turn both toenails black. I must say the Dunham by New Balance Men's MCR6630G Cloud Mid Cut Boot surpassed the adidas Terrex in comfort, having a much wider toe box that no longer tortured my little toes. I did have to go back to actually lacing and tying my boots again, but I finished the remaining 500+ miles without further boot-related incident.
So, if you want a comfortable, GoreTex lined, lightweight boot and don't mind a narrow toe box, you could do a lot worse than these adidas so long as you get the ones with normal laces.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Adidas CF232 Men's Terrex Fast X Mid GTX Boot
I love these shoes. They are easy to get on and are fairly comfortable. The one foot was a little uncomfortable at first but is starting to fit better. All in all they are good shoes.
Cheap Nike Dual Fusion Run Running Shoes
I purchased these shoes for my son last year and he has worn them everyday around campus and loves them. These shoes are comfortable, excellent quality and easy to keep clean. There is currently minimum wear and tear and a great investment. This Nike shoes was worth the investment. We only wish we could have bought two pair as they are no longer available today for purchase.THIS SHOES ARE FANTASTIC I LOVE IT IS VERY COMFORTABLE AND EXCELLENT FOR RUNNING AND THE COLOR IS BEATIFUL,THANK YOU.
Buy Shimano SH-WR35 Road Cycling Shoe - Women's
After spinning several times a week for 10 months, i decided to break down and get a pair of spin shoes. The only thing that had really been holding me back before was the price, but that's why we all love Amazon right? This shoe is very comfortable and provides excellent support.
Sizing: My only suggestion before buying this shoe is to look up the Shimano shoe sizing. The European shoe sizes differ alot from US sizes. I wear an 8.5 and ordered size 41. The 41 is a bit big but I think the 40 would be too small.
Putting the cleats on: You have to buy the SPD cleats separately. Just a bit of advice: when you put the cleats on, make sure you put then on really really tight! I watched a youtube video on how to install and they said not to tighten them too much. I took that advice and the cleat came off on the bike pedal when i went to unclip. Learned the hard way!
Sizing: My only suggestion before buying this shoe is to look up the Shimano shoe sizing. The European shoe sizes differ alot from US sizes. I wear an 8.5 and ordered size 41. The 41 is a bit big but I think the 40 would be too small.
Putting the cleats on: You have to buy the SPD cleats separately. Just a bit of advice: when you put the cleats on, make sure you put then on really really tight! I watched a youtube video on how to install and they said not to tighten them too much. I took that advice and the cleat came off on the bike pedal when i went to unclip. Learned the hard way!
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As soon as I put these shoes on I was in love. They are so lightweight, comfortable, and not to mention stylish. They definitely helped me kick up my spinning routine.Best Deals on Shimano SH-WR35 Road Cycling Shoe - Women's
I go to spin class 4x a week and finally decided to just invest in my own shoes instead of renting every time. This style of cycling shoe is the same brand and similar style as the ones they use at where I take classes so I knew what to expect. I wear a size 8.5 or 9 in normal shoes and the size 41 fits perfectly. I did have some numbness in my midfoot during class while breaking the shoes in but they are great now. Most cycling shoes don't come with the cleats so you have to buy those separately but they are fairly easy to install and you can find videos online to help show you what to do. A tip though. Really tighten the cleats onto your shoes! My first class with my shoes my cleats weren't tight enough and my shoe got stuck in the pedal! We were able to pry the shoe off and without damaging the cleat but but get those things as tight as you can when you put them on!!Honest reviews on Shimano SH-WR35 Road Cycling Shoe - Women's
i usually wear a size 7 and this fits perfectly. very comfortable and easy on/off. i use this for spin class and i really have enjoyed them. great price. i saw it priced $25 more at sport chalet.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Shimano SH-WR35 Road Cycling Shoe - Women's
I have wide feet and this shoe fits great. Big enough toe box. No pinching or pain. Very very comfortable. I recommend.
Mens Adidas Classic Originals Samoa Sneakers Review
these shoes are stylish, well made, use quality materials, and are by far the most comfortable shoes i have ever purchased. I love these so much i own them in 2 other colors and constantly visit adidas' website as well as my local adidas outlet store looking for new colors. be sure to check out their site, they have lots more colors available then you see here for the same price as amazon.
Best PUMA Men's Cell Gen Blkot Running Shoe Deals
don't know if it is the fashionable style of the shoelaces, but these shoelaces are really flat yarns. sometimes when i tying my shoes, it feels like i'm about to break the shoelaces. they are flat yarns. no inner core. might get some $2 replacement shoelaces. also, it doesn't come in a shoebox, it comes in a red recycled bag from puma.
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this is a very very comfortable shoe its very classy and simple great quality as well didnt regret the purchaseBest Deals on PUMA Men's Cell Gen Blkot Running Shoe
These shoes fit great and were extremely comfortable. But only after a couple of days of hard wear, the right shoe must have gotten a hole in it. I say this bc the right shoe was not nearly as supportive as the left and the air cell squished down a lot.
New Balance Men's M1260v3 Running Shoe Reviews
Not as clunky as the other NB shoes I have had. Overall very satisfied I run about 20 miles per week and had no discomfort when making the switch to these shoes. I use the ASICS Gel Kayano series as much as possible (I need a 2E and a "Stability+" shoe...they can be tough to come by) but like to change things up every so often. Now that I've broken these in they feel as good or better than the Kayano's.
i use them for walking long distance & jogging.
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Apparently my feet were in process of growing when I bought 1260v2's back in early 2011. The size 12's were a bit too snug, but I chalked it up to warm temperatures & fully expected them to work well soon. I was very wrong. They continued to hurt, eventually causing my two big toenails to turn black & come off. Not fun. Long story short, I soon-after began buying size 13 NB shoes with much better results. Now I own 5 different NB models, and they all work splendidly. I gave the 12's away to a needy person and we are both the happier. Thus far, I'm truly enjoying these Blue/Green 1260v3's & may buy another pair in my not-too-distant future.Best Deals on New Balance Men's M1260v3 Running Shoe
i wear size 104e and this pair of sneakers are the most comfortable shoes i have ever put on my feet.i use them for walking long distance & jogging.
Honest reviews on New Balance Men's M1260v3 Running Shoe
The shoes are great -light and wide and a perfect fit. They are also really durable in the soles, and mitigate the over-pronation that I'm prone to. My heel is still sometimes a bit sore, but with these and night-splints I should be able to keep putting the miles on. GREAT SHOES!Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for New Balance Men's M1260v3 Running Shoe
Great lightweight shoe with a strong stability core to help with pronation. Love them. I use them for jogging/walking on pavement daily.
PUMA Voltaic 3 NM Running Shoe Review
I bought these mainly as a casual shoe, but also to be used for some 3-4 mi jogs. I like the appearance and the fit over the top of my foot, but the sole leaves a lot to be desired. I have an average to high arch and there's not much arch support, and I also like some cushion which there's very little of.
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They are comfortable and my feet did not hurt after running a 5K. Perfect running shoes whether your a first time runner or a long time runnerBest Deals on PUMA Voltaic 3 NM Running Shoe
have 2 pairs of these and 2 pairs of the 4s. like both styles. fit is snug to start and streches out with use.Honest reviews on PUMA Voltaic 3 NM Running Shoe
I love the Puma brand & these shoes fit really well. my feet are a little narrow but these work out very well.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for PUMA Voltaic 3 NM Running Shoe
I purchased these Puma's at at well known outlet (FF). I paid $70.00 for them. You can about imagine the frustration I felt when I could've boughten the same tennis shoes here, at a greatly reduced price! I'm glad I bought them though, they're the most comfortable tennis shoes I've purchased so far. Light on the feet and comfortable walking. You can't go wrong with this shoe, both comfort and cost effective.
Cheap Adidas Men's ADIDAS MAD HANDLE BASKETBALL SHOES
these shoes are amazing they have so much comfort and protection for your ankles and feet, pretty good traction on the court and they make you wanna jump, so springy and awesome ill recommend these or nikes anyday
NIKE Men's Lunar Trainer 1 Men's Training Shoe-Black/Blue/Silver Reviews
Very high quality shoe for the price. Unbelievably cushy sole that makes it very comfortable to walk in, great for weightlifting or cross training.
It will be better if it includes the nike plus chip in the shoe box
About average weight for a cross-training shoe, not as light as the Nike Free TR's but about in-line with other Lunar's. Seems okay so far.
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I love these shoes they fit great and look awesome i am so glad i bought these no problems at all.Best Deals on NIKE Men's Lunar Trainer 1 Men's Training Shoe-Black/Blue/Silver
Perfectly fit on my feet!It will be better if it includes the nike plus chip in the shoe box
Honest reviews on NIKE Men's Lunar Trainer 1 Men's Training Shoe-Black/Blue/Silver
Fits as expected-other reviews had warned it's a tad small, but not by much-maybe a quarter size.About average weight for a cross-training shoe, not as light as the Nike Free TR's but about in-line with other Lunar's. Seems okay so far.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for NIKE Men's Lunar Trainer 1 Men's Training Shoe-Black/Blue/Silver
I have a narrow foot so these are a little wide but overall fit is fine. I use them for everyday wear and it took about a week to break them into my foot pattern and gate, but now them are extremely comfortable, love Lunarlon sole.
Vibram FiveFingers Classic Women's Running Shoes Minimalist Sneakers Review
I bought these on a bit of a whim, because I get bad ankles and planter fasciitis when I run and the research around barefoot running looked good enough for me to give them a go.
I love them! I have experienced initial muscle tiredness in my feet and ankles, but that just proves I'm using different muscles when I use them. When I'm wearing them I want to bounce and run. I'd far rather wear them than my running shoes. I even have arches now. I'm not yet at the stage where I can do all my running in them, but I want to be. I think I'll be buying a pair of KSOs or Flows for the winter too.
No issue with the vendor. The box they arrive in is really quite small. My only advice would be to measure your feet carefully. I did it approximately and they are slightly too big. They stay on, it's not a problem, just a note. I did go up a size after reading a couple of reviews saying they were tight. I think careful measuring may be the answer.
I love them. The first day I had them, I had to struggle for a few minutes to get my pinkie toe into the right spot but after that it got much easier. It truly is a liberating feeling, walking around outside, feeling somewhat barefoot but with the feet protected. I have read that people report improved posture and better arch-health (arch/foot pain diminishing, knee pain diminishing) with these shoes and I didn't believe it until i tried them. It's true, at least for me. I plan to start running in them soonI use the ChiRunning method/POSE running so I already strike midfoot to forefoot and for that running style they seem to be pretty good. I'm not saying they are for everyone, but they've been great for me. I'd say that if you enjoy going barefoot and don't like wearing "flip flops" then definitely try them. If you prefer to walk in shoes, you may find them strange.
7 Month Update: Still loving them. I've increased my running mileage from 4 miles to 8 miles, with no loss in "per mile time" and no injuries, except for a small, slight stress fracture that I was working on anyway before I got the V5F's. I do recommend that you also buy some Injinji socks to wear with your V5F's, because those socks make the shoes fit that much snugger and so there's less chance of a hotspot developing on your foot. Still highly recommended.
Overall, I think they are a great product that is fun to wear, at least for people who enjoy going barefoot anyway. The $80 price tag seems fair to me as well, since I've spent that much or more on every pair of running shoes I've ever had. The only reason I didn't rate them 5/5 stars is because of the colors. Simple as that. Shallow I know, but there it is.
I love them! I have experienced initial muscle tiredness in my feet and ankles, but that just proves I'm using different muscles when I use them. When I'm wearing them I want to bounce and run. I'd far rather wear them than my running shoes. I even have arches now. I'm not yet at the stage where I can do all my running in them, but I want to be. I think I'll be buying a pair of KSOs or Flows for the winter too.
No issue with the vendor. The box they arrive in is really quite small. My only advice would be to measure your feet carefully. I did it approximately and they are slightly too big. They stay on, it's not a problem, just a note. I did go up a size after reading a couple of reviews saying they were tight. I think careful measuring may be the answer.
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Basically I like to go barefoot, but cannot do so living in an urban environment. Obviously it hurts if you step on a sharp rock, especially on the heel, and can be dangerous if there is broken glass about. Also, you can't very well just waltz into any and all stores if you are barefoot because they don't seem to like it and have signs posted (No Shoes No Shirt No Service)... so I tried these shoes. I was lucky enough to live near a retailer so I was able to try on a few different sizes, which was great since my measurements put me between two sizes.I love them. The first day I had them, I had to struggle for a few minutes to get my pinkie toe into the right spot but after that it got much easier. It truly is a liberating feeling, walking around outside, feeling somewhat barefoot but with the feet protected. I have read that people report improved posture and better arch-health (arch/foot pain diminishing, knee pain diminishing) with these shoes and I didn't believe it until i tried them. It's true, at least for me. I plan to start running in them soonI use the ChiRunning method/POSE running so I already strike midfoot to forefoot and for that running style they seem to be pretty good. I'm not saying they are for everyone, but they've been great for me. I'd say that if you enjoy going barefoot and don't like wearing "flip flops" then definitely try them. If you prefer to walk in shoes, you may find them strange.
7 Month Update: Still loving them. I've increased my running mileage from 4 miles to 8 miles, with no loss in "per mile time" and no injuries, except for a small, slight stress fracture that I was working on anyway before I got the V5F's. I do recommend that you also buy some Injinji socks to wear with your V5F's, because those socks make the shoes fit that much snugger and so there's less chance of a hotspot developing on your foot. Still highly recommended.
Overall, I think they are a great product that is fun to wear, at least for people who enjoy going barefoot anyway. The $80 price tag seems fair to me as well, since I've spent that much or more on every pair of running shoes I've ever had. The only reason I didn't rate them 5/5 stars is because of the colors. Simple as that. Shallow I know, but there it is.
Best Deals on Vibram FiveFingers Classic Women's Running Shoes Minimalist Sneakers
These shoes are cool and I've been getting non-stop attention regarding them since I've gotten them. However DO NOT pay the $120-something that this seller is asking for. That's highway robbery. You can get the exact same shoes and a larger variety on the Vibram Five Fingers website for just $75. That seller should be ashamed of himself/herself. Crook.Honest reviews on Vibram FiveFingers Classic Women's Running Shoes Minimalist Sneakers
We saw something like these in an airport and they looked cool. It was a great birthday gift and everyone has asked about them. If you like being barefoot but like to have something on your feet these are great. She loves them!! Great product.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Vibram FiveFingers Classic Women's Running Shoes Minimalist Sneakers
wow you can find these for $70 to $80. This price is stupid, don't pay $122
Buy Adidas Men's Adizero Feather 2 Running Shoes-Black/Coral/White
These running shoes are great. I have wide feet and I find that Adidas shoes are much more forgiving than those by Nike, and exude a cleaner and more classically stylish look than those from Asics, New Balance, or others. Still, I recommend going a half size up. The fit will still be a little snug at first, but will conform quite nicely once you break them in. The one quibble I have is that the pair that I received in the mail have an unsightly crease or dent at the toe of the each shoe right by the big toe. There is nothing I can do to "pound out" those two dents. Perhaps no one will notice, but I know that they're there, and that's a little irksome. But given the lightness of the sneaker, the style and color (collegiate navy/running white), the miCoach compatibility, and the price, I have to say that I'm still very pleased.
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They look great, are very light, and are a good price. However, they lose one star because they seem to have a problem around the arch (not enough support maybe?) that gives bad blisters. I bought new insoles for them and they improved, but not drastically. Gradually ive grown a very tough patch of skin behind the ball of my foot, so its not really a major issue any more. I think that adidas was so occupied with making them light, they forgot to put enough cusioning, but maybe i just have soft feet!Best Deals on Adidas Men's Adizero Feather 2 Running Shoes-Black/Coral/White
I totally recommend theses shoes. Adidas shoes are usually light and really well built but these ones really surpassed my expectations. They are so confortable you don`t even fell them on, jet they provide really good stability while giving you a bit of push off the ground on every step. Plus, they look awesome.Honest reviews on Adidas Men's Adizero Feather 2 Running Shoes-Black/Coral/White
shoes totally fit and designed with nice and cheap good category for the occasion .. 100% totally recommended trusted store fineFind helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Adidas Men's Adizero Feather 2 Running Shoes-Black/Coral/White
it was a git! I was afraid, when II ordered , but he loves it. he is a gymslover.... he said he want another one
Inov-8 F-lite 195 Shoe Review
I had seen the inov-8 brand in reviews previously and that it was well regarded. I found a pair of 195's on clearance and decided to give them a try.
My quandary was what size to get. I had seen some sites and reviews saying to order a 1/2 size down. I wear a 12 in most running shoes and have never had an issue with that size. I decided to go with the 12's in the Inov-8's and feel they fit just fine. The toe is more pointed than most shoes and maybe seems a bit longer but I put these side be side (and bottom to bottom)with several of my 12's including my Kinvara 2's and to me they all seem like the same length.Width is a little narrower compared to some of my other shoes but I wear a D width and the upper material is "stretchy" and I didn't notice any ill effects nor was I uncomfortable. In fact I was very comfortable in the shoe. The heel cup area is a bit lower than most running shoes but the heel stays locked in very well.
The upper graphics and toe bumper is some kind of spray on rubber type material, kind of like a bedliner. I looks good and works fine, and I am guessing it keeps the weight down. The sole is an injected mold EVA foam and a bit denser in feel to most EVA on other shoes. The colors on the EVA are painted on with some sort of rubber paint. Over all the shoe looks very good in person. There are a lot of color choices out there as well to pretty much match anyone's desire ranging from the very bold to the plainer solid colors. It is very light as well.
Feelwise I like low drop shoes but at 6'3" 205 some of them like the vibram's, merrell's, and minimus line pound me when I run as they just don't give me enough cushion. The 195's denser foam combined with a pretty good insert, actually do very well. I think the insert will compress over time so will have to see how long it lasts. The cusioning is better than the really minimal stuff but the ground feel is still very good and the sole low to the ground. Feel wise these remind me of my NEw Balance 730's but I give the comfort edge while running to the 195's. For a light 3mm drop low sole shoe, these are very runable for me on a cushioned surface like a treadmill or trail.
As a general workout shoe these are great. Fairly flat sole, locked in foot, low to the ground for stability, good cushioning. As I can run in them, moving from treadmill to free weights is no problem. At MSRP they are a bit spendy but if you look around you can usually find them in older colors on clearance somewhere.
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Shoes really matter, but not for the reasons most weekend warriors think. For example, if you spend a lot of time looking for high cushioning and support, or if you buy shoes because a sales guy at the running store put you on a treadmill and video your feet to show you how a certain shoe "corrects" your stride, you might be caught off-guard by the Inov-8 approach.
Here's why:
During recent decades, running shoes have been designed to help initially prevent injuries in poorly conditioned legs and feet by building shoes that replace natural body functions with artificial stabilization and extra cushioning. The resulting problem is that the person using those shoes initially becomes more aerobically fit and starts running faster and longer... without their feet and legs being structurally strengthened to handle the increased demand. Before long, the shoes can't continue to compensate for the fact that the person's feet and legs' inner structures simply aren't trained to handle the running. It's too-much too-soon meets too-little too-late. Consequently, painful "overuse" injuries (shinsplints, knee pain, back pain, stress fractures, tendonitis, fasciitis, etc.) are practically an inevitability for many well-intentioned and dedicated aspiring runners who take up jogging or join a cross country or track team.
A very large number of "overuse" injuries in otherwise healthy people result from a combination of two factors. 1) Weak/underused feet and leg structures, as described above; & 2) Bad running form it doesn't immediately hurt to run improperly on 2" of cushioning, but bad form will catch up to you as you increase mileage. Really, the problem isn't "overuse" so much as "use" when, thanks to laziness and bad shoes, critical parts of our bodies are only conditioned to "under-use".
The solution is to make the following transition: Stop running in shoes that put us on a cushy path to a painful destination and carefully learn to run in shoes that enable our bodies to run the way we were actually built to run. Most people are completely capable of much more running than you might think, but it takes a little work to correct years of under-use. This transition will require a little patience as you build the strength in your legs and feet to avoid injuries. It will also require learning to run with healthier running form, which is a lot easier on your body as well as more efficient for long distance.
Inov-8 shoes are designed to enable your foot, not to support it to the extent of replacing natural foot functions. In other words, if you are out of shape and decide to start running 20+ miles per week exclusively in this shoe, you are taking a risk. The shoes are designed for the runner who is making or has already made the transition as described above. Inov-8's entire product line is built on a minimalist philosophy. More and more runners and fitness buffs are realizing that the Inov-8 approach is, indeed, a better approach. (Not to mention a darned good shoe in terms of materials and quality as well as design.)
If you have not carefully transitioned to a minimalist running style and built up strong feet and legs for this type of shoe, a sudden switch could injure you. Take the transition slowly because your feet and legs need to get strong enough to actually do what they are built to do.
Inov-8 shoes are generally comfortable, very well built, and perfectly able to carry a fit runner through many hundreds, and even a thousand, happy miles. However, they do not replace under-used arches or compensate for pounding, heel-striking strides. (Contrary to popular myth, flat-footed runners can run just fine in these shoes if they get their feet and legs in shape. Flat feet are not the running liability many have been lead to believe. Ever watch world-class runner Haille Gebrselassie's stride? Talk about overpronation!)
How can I say all this? I have flat feet, terrible pronation, and am 6'3" tall. I ran four years of cross country in high school and was on the varsity squad for a state-championship team. The whole time, I fought miserable shinsplints, knee pain, and back pain. I popped Advil like tic-tacs. I loved the sport and ran relatively good 5K times but my chronic pain was bad enough to sideline me for all of track season senior year. Any time I increased my intensity or mileage, the problems got worse. Doctors were talking about "scar tissue" and "surgery". Well-meaning doctors told me to stop running. They said my body just wasn't made for it. Shoe-store employees continued to put me into higher support, more motion control, more cushioning to try and "correct" my feet and legs.
It wasn't until college that a former teammate (who is now a professional runner partially sponsored by Inov-8) explained the concept of minimalist running to me. Although I was in good aerobic condition, I spent a month resting and then the better part of three months carefully re-training from scratch, patiently overhauling my form to be more efficient, working my way into exclusively running in racing flats (Inov-8 wasn't available yet), and allowing my feet and legs to get much stronger and more flexible.
Since then, I run further and faster than ever before, with no more "overuse injury" bullcrap. My training mileage has at one point been greater than 90 miles per week. I have competed in a major marathon and placed in the top 4 in my age group. I have won a handful of smaller races. Better yet, I have not been injured or hurt ONCE since I made that transition to minimalist shoes and better running form. I haven't even owned a pair of traditional "trainer" shoes in over 9 years. (Much of my training is in an old pair of trashed racing flats with at least 1,500 miles on them. I prefer to use Inov-8 for more rugged terrain and tougher trails, where they excel, but they have models that make good trainers on almost any terrain. When my beloved racing flats finally die, I'll replace them with an Inov-8 racing model.)
I consider myself a "weekend warrior" and I am a far cry from an "elite" runner. Had I listened to the well-meaning doctors who told me I just wasn't built to run and should give it up, I would have stopped years ago. Inov-8 understands that we humans are literally built to be running machines. Their shoes don't get in the way of that. Run happy!
My quandary was what size to get. I had seen some sites and reviews saying to order a 1/2 size down. I wear a 12 in most running shoes and have never had an issue with that size. I decided to go with the 12's in the Inov-8's and feel they fit just fine. The toe is more pointed than most shoes and maybe seems a bit longer but I put these side be side (and bottom to bottom)with several of my 12's including my Kinvara 2's and to me they all seem like the same length.Width is a little narrower compared to some of my other shoes but I wear a D width and the upper material is "stretchy" and I didn't notice any ill effects nor was I uncomfortable. In fact I was very comfortable in the shoe. The heel cup area is a bit lower than most running shoes but the heel stays locked in very well.
The upper graphics and toe bumper is some kind of spray on rubber type material, kind of like a bedliner. I looks good and works fine, and I am guessing it keeps the weight down. The sole is an injected mold EVA foam and a bit denser in feel to most EVA on other shoes. The colors on the EVA are painted on with some sort of rubber paint. Over all the shoe looks very good in person. There are a lot of color choices out there as well to pretty much match anyone's desire ranging from the very bold to the plainer solid colors. It is very light as well.
Feelwise I like low drop shoes but at 6'3" 205 some of them like the vibram's, merrell's, and minimus line pound me when I run as they just don't give me enough cushion. The 195's denser foam combined with a pretty good insert, actually do very well. I think the insert will compress over time so will have to see how long it lasts. The cusioning is better than the really minimal stuff but the ground feel is still very good and the sole low to the ground. Feel wise these remind me of my NEw Balance 730's but I give the comfort edge while running to the 195's. For a light 3mm drop low sole shoe, these are very runable for me on a cushioned surface like a treadmill or trail.
As a general workout shoe these are great. Fairly flat sole, locked in foot, low to the ground for stability, good cushioning. As I can run in them, moving from treadmill to free weights is no problem. At MSRP they are a bit spendy but if you look around you can usually find them in older colors on clearance somewhere.
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UPDATE: I have written extensive reviews on some Inov-8 shoes and received a lot of feedback that the reviews were helpful (no, I am not sponsored or paid by Inov-8). As much of my summer running has taken place on roads, paths, and trails in Inov-8 shoes, I can say that my past reviews still apply. I've pasted one below for whomever might find it helpful:==================
Shoes really matter, but not for the reasons most weekend warriors think. For example, if you spend a lot of time looking for high cushioning and support, or if you buy shoes because a sales guy at the running store put you on a treadmill and video your feet to show you how a certain shoe "corrects" your stride, you might be caught off-guard by the Inov-8 approach.
Here's why:
During recent decades, running shoes have been designed to help initially prevent injuries in poorly conditioned legs and feet by building shoes that replace natural body functions with artificial stabilization and extra cushioning. The resulting problem is that the person using those shoes initially becomes more aerobically fit and starts running faster and longer... without their feet and legs being structurally strengthened to handle the increased demand. Before long, the shoes can't continue to compensate for the fact that the person's feet and legs' inner structures simply aren't trained to handle the running. It's too-much too-soon meets too-little too-late. Consequently, painful "overuse" injuries (shinsplints, knee pain, back pain, stress fractures, tendonitis, fasciitis, etc.) are practically an inevitability for many well-intentioned and dedicated aspiring runners who take up jogging or join a cross country or track team.
A very large number of "overuse" injuries in otherwise healthy people result from a combination of two factors. 1) Weak/underused feet and leg structures, as described above; & 2) Bad running form it doesn't immediately hurt to run improperly on 2" of cushioning, but bad form will catch up to you as you increase mileage. Really, the problem isn't "overuse" so much as "use" when, thanks to laziness and bad shoes, critical parts of our bodies are only conditioned to "under-use".
The solution is to make the following transition: Stop running in shoes that put us on a cushy path to a painful destination and carefully learn to run in shoes that enable our bodies to run the way we were actually built to run. Most people are completely capable of much more running than you might think, but it takes a little work to correct years of under-use. This transition will require a little patience as you build the strength in your legs and feet to avoid injuries. It will also require learning to run with healthier running form, which is a lot easier on your body as well as more efficient for long distance.
Inov-8 shoes are designed to enable your foot, not to support it to the extent of replacing natural foot functions. In other words, if you are out of shape and decide to start running 20+ miles per week exclusively in this shoe, you are taking a risk. The shoes are designed for the runner who is making or has already made the transition as described above. Inov-8's entire product line is built on a minimalist philosophy. More and more runners and fitness buffs are realizing that the Inov-8 approach is, indeed, a better approach. (Not to mention a darned good shoe in terms of materials and quality as well as design.)
If you have not carefully transitioned to a minimalist running style and built up strong feet and legs for this type of shoe, a sudden switch could injure you. Take the transition slowly because your feet and legs need to get strong enough to actually do what they are built to do.
Inov-8 shoes are generally comfortable, very well built, and perfectly able to carry a fit runner through many hundreds, and even a thousand, happy miles. However, they do not replace under-used arches or compensate for pounding, heel-striking strides. (Contrary to popular myth, flat-footed runners can run just fine in these shoes if they get their feet and legs in shape. Flat feet are not the running liability many have been lead to believe. Ever watch world-class runner Haille Gebrselassie's stride? Talk about overpronation!)
How can I say all this? I have flat feet, terrible pronation, and am 6'3" tall. I ran four years of cross country in high school and was on the varsity squad for a state-championship team. The whole time, I fought miserable shinsplints, knee pain, and back pain. I popped Advil like tic-tacs. I loved the sport and ran relatively good 5K times but my chronic pain was bad enough to sideline me for all of track season senior year. Any time I increased my intensity or mileage, the problems got worse. Doctors were talking about "scar tissue" and "surgery". Well-meaning doctors told me to stop running. They said my body just wasn't made for it. Shoe-store employees continued to put me into higher support, more motion control, more cushioning to try and "correct" my feet and legs.
It wasn't until college that a former teammate (who is now a professional runner partially sponsored by Inov-8) explained the concept of minimalist running to me. Although I was in good aerobic condition, I spent a month resting and then the better part of three months carefully re-training from scratch, patiently overhauling my form to be more efficient, working my way into exclusively running in racing flats (Inov-8 wasn't available yet), and allowing my feet and legs to get much stronger and more flexible.
Since then, I run further and faster than ever before, with no more "overuse injury" bullcrap. My training mileage has at one point been greater than 90 miles per week. I have competed in a major marathon and placed in the top 4 in my age group. I have won a handful of smaller races. Better yet, I have not been injured or hurt ONCE since I made that transition to minimalist shoes and better running form. I haven't even owned a pair of traditional "trainer" shoes in over 9 years. (Much of my training is in an old pair of trashed racing flats with at least 1,500 miles on them. I prefer to use Inov-8 for more rugged terrain and tougher trails, where they excel, but they have models that make good trainers on almost any terrain. When my beloved racing flats finally die, I'll replace them with an Inov-8 racing model.)
I consider myself a "weekend warrior" and I am a far cry from an "elite" runner. Had I listened to the well-meaning doctors who told me I just wasn't built to run and should give it up, I would have stopped years ago. Inov-8 understands that we humans are literally built to be running machines. Their shoes don't get in the way of that. Run happy!
Best Deals on Inov-8 F-lite 195 Shoe
Very light and comfortable. I can wear them all day with no issues. Great for lifting, good for running. My feet stay stable, even with weight overhead or in the bottom of the squat. In my opinion, this shoe is the best for crossfit or similar activities.Honest reviews on Inov-8 F-lite 195 Shoe
All other athletic/running shoes I have are 7, so I thought I'd be fine ordering a 7 in this one. Well, it turns out they run narrow. Otherwise, the shoe feels good, with a snug heel cup and firm sole. I especially liked the Ropetec "thingy" between the heel and forefoot, there is a hard plastic/rubber piece that should keep the rope from burning into the sole on quick descents. I checked at a local store, and apparently there are a few generations of this shoe, as the other 195's they had did not have this feature.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Inov-8 F-lite 195 Shoe
I have used the F-lite 195 and 210's for my CrossFit workouts and like both but prefer the 195's. The toe wore out in my first pair after about 8 months use so they aren't terribly durable but to be expected with minimal weight shoes. I still bought two more pairs!
Octane 18X 100 oz Hydration Pack Review
The first time I pulled on one of the elastic band straps to tighten the bag it broke, I'm now afraid what else might break after further use. For over $100 the bag doesn't seem to be built to last. I hope I'm wrong
