It’s as if they heard us! Nike launches it’s Considered Design Initiative 
By Carl | November 18, 2008
After moaning about the lack of manufacturers willing to follow the excellent example set by Brooks and their MoGo sole, Nike have launched; Nike Considered Design. Through which Nike aims to combine sustainability principles with the newest innovations for running shoes.
For example, Nike’s best selling running shoe, the Pegasus, celebrating its 25th anniversary, is the first pinnacle running shoe to be Nike Considered Design.
“As we look at how we design and develop products and run our global business, it’s not enough to be solving the challenges of today,” said President and CEO Mark Parker. “We are designing for the sustainable economy of tomorrow, and for us that means using fewer resources, more sustainable materials and renewable energy to produce new products.”
The goal of Nike Considered Design is to create performance innovation running shoes that minimize environmental impact by reducing waste throughout the design and development process, use environmentally preferred materials, and eliminate toxics. Nike designers are now expected to make smart, sustainable design choices at the start of their creative process which has led to Nike’s most extensive Considered Design range of product to date.
Since Nike introduced its footwear recycling program, Reuse-A-Shoe in 1990, sustainability has been a key area of development for the company. Over this past year alone, Nike introduced the Considered Air Jordan XX3, as well as a complete line of apparel for athletes in Beijing that was made from 100 percent recycled polyester.
Public Targets
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Nike has set public targets for its Considered goals: We aim to have 100 percent of Nike running shoes meet baseline Considered standards by 2011, all apparel by 2015, and all equipment by 2020. Achievement of these goals would mean would mean waste in Nike’s supply chain will be reduced by 17 percent and the use of environmentally-preferred materials will be increased by 20 percent.
“It all begins with design and engineering, and Nike designers will lead the Considered Design process to create more sustainable products with no compromise to consumers,” said Lorrie Vogel, Nike Considered GM. “We’re proud of our accomplishments, and they represent a significant step toward making all Nike brand footwear, apparel and equipment Considered.”
Nike’s long-term vision for Considered is to design products that are fully closed loop: produced using the fewest possible materials, designed for easy disassembly while allowing them to be recycled into new product or safely returned to nature at the end of their life.
Natural Step
Nike understands this work can’t be done alone and places importance on the value of collaboration. Nike turned to The Natural Step, an international not-for-profit organization dedicated to education and research in sustainable development, to help create its future vision.
“The Natural Step and Nike have been working together to create a more sustainable future for 10 years. Nike’s progress has been tremendous. We are proud to be partners in their journey,” said The Natural Step founder, Dr. Karl-Henrik Robèrt.
If you have a few minutes to spare (6min&55sec to be precise) then you may want to watch this video featuring the boffins at Nike discussing the Considered Design initiative. Thankfully their products are more exciting than they are!
Tags: Add new tag, Nike Considered Design, Nike sustainability, Nike+ Running ShoesTopics: Discussions, Goings On, Running | No Comments »
Shoe Focus - Nike LunarTrainer
By James | November 14, 2008
Typically, if a runner wants to log a lot of mileage training, they’d expect footwear with extra cushioning and support to handle the demand of the road. The LunarTrainer set out to overturn those expectations-and did it using Nike’s revolutionary new cushioning system, Lunarlite foam. Nike’s lightest weight and most responsive cushioning material to date, Lunarlite foam is 30% lighter than Nike Phylon, our next lightest performance foam, and works to distribute force across the foot. With each footfall, pressure is dispersed-protecting the foot from injury as well as pain and fatigue-a huge benefit in a shoe meant for mileage.
Lunarlite Foam - revolutionary cushioning.
Developed by the aerospace industry, Lunarlite foam was adapted by Nike for running. The process took more than four years, but you could easily say the LunarTrainer was more than 30 years in the making. Lunarlite foam got its start when Nike designer Kevin Hoffer wanted to create a cushioning system as revolutionary as Bill Bowerman’s original Waffle sole. Geoff Hollister, one of Bowerman’s runners as well as one of Nike’s first employees, first tried a Waffle prototype in 1971 and likened it to “running on pillows.” This very quote inspired Hoffer’s search for cushioning that recreated that sensation-a nearly impossible order. Foam is rarely responsive and soft. Soft cushioning is frequently deadening, meaning it absorbs energy rather than returning it to the runner for the toe off.
However, once Hoffer found his material with Lunarlite foam, it had to be tamed. The compound had to be reformulated for manufacturing, and Lunarlite foam itself can’t be exposed to water-or to air or even sunlight-without degrading. The design team had to create an entire system-a carrier that could contain the Lunarlite foam material. Once it had been perfected, the designers set out to design a training shoe that paid homage to its original inspiration.
The Waffle’s first incarnation was the Moon Shoe, which debuted at the 1972 marathon trials. The design team kept the iconic look and lightweight simplicity of the Moon Shoe’s upper but updated it with a single-layer mesh. As Brian Stewart, one of the designers who worked on the project, explains, “We wanted to create a really simple upper, because the whole idea about the LunarTrainer is that it’s light and uncomplicated, and at the same time it’s a shoe you can run in big miles, but it’s way lighter than most shoes that people would think about doing that with.”
Perfecting the outsole required many iterations to work out the proper balance with the Lunarlite foam material. The initial outsole and midsole systems were wide, almost exaggerated to compensate for people’s perceptions of cushioning that light. The design team narrowed it down until they found the perfect ratio of size and stability. Wear-testers of even the earliest prototypes came back with rave reviews. They said in the LunarTrainer they felt less beat up after long runs. They reported that they wanted to run longer, and after long training runs their legs didn’t feel as beat up. Now in keeping with its original inspiration, the LunarTrainer has a rubber Waffle outsole for increased durability, and at just over 9 ounces, the shoe is nearly 4 ounces lighter than most training footwear.
What we think:
Out of the box the ride in the Nike LunarTrainer is very smooth and soft. You can feel the air between your toes due to the breathable upper and the responsive Lunarlite foam reduces shock impact. In terms of cushioning it is comparable to the Asics Nimbus 10 but around 30% lighter. However due to the reduced weight you also have reduced support and protection. The LunarTrainer is ideal for a medium built neutral runner.
Save £10.00
The Nike LunarTrainer has an RRP of £84.99 however we have found it from just £74.99. Click on this link to find out where!
If you want to see what the designer of the LunarTrainer thinks take a look at this video.
Tags: nike luna trainer, nike lunar running shoe, Nike Lunar trainer, nike lunarlite, Nike lunartrainer
Topics: Discussions, Running | No Comments »
As seen here second - Preview of next years running shoes!
By Carl | November 13, 2008
Unfortunately we are but a mere tick on the back of the behemoth that is Runnersworld USA. Otherwise this may have been a Ransacker exclusive - one day may be!
Anyway, luckily for us once a year our trans Atlantic cousins get treated to an exclusive preview of next year’s running shoes by the manufacturers. It’s not 100% guaranteed that we will see these running shoes on our shores next year but it is more than likely, judging by previous years.
Below is what Warren Greene (the RW Brand Editor) discovered.
Brooks Ravenna - Set to replace the impressive Brooks Axiom
- Softer than the Axiom
- BioMoGo midsole
- New Last with a Snug fit
- Extra 5mm of cushioning
- Unique customisation of lace positioning
- Available in the USA from July
Saucony Echelon - brand new shoe for bigger runners
- Widened last for authotics
- No Motion Control features
- Unique archlock feature - secures the foot
- Available from Jan in the USA
Mizuno Wave Creation 10 - a welcomed update.
- Softer than the Mizuno Creation 9
- Women’s specific gender engeneered shoe
- Slightly wider last for Men
- Available in the USA from Jan
Topics: Discussions, Goings On, Running | No Comments »
Shoe Focus: Nike Air Zoom Equalon+ 3
By Angus | November 12, 2008
In this new feature we will delve into the “Science behind the Shoe” and explore what makes a running shoe creat. The first running shoe on our list is the ever impressive Nike Air Zoom Equalon+ 3.
As a forefront in the running world, Nike is constantly improving the sport. By consistently coming up with new and innovative running shoe designs. Nike’s latest improvements to the Zoom Equalon+ 3 for both men and women are a clear indication of this. The Equalon+ 3 is perfect for those runners who need support and stability in a shoe, but aren’t willing to sacrifice cushioning and comfort. They are now much lighter, more cushioned and are the perfect solution for the runner who tends to overpronate in their stride.
What else has done to make this shoe even better? Check out the diagrams below to learn about all the improvements made to both the men’s and women’s shoes. The areas highlighted in red indicate the feature being discussed.
WOMEN’S
- The specific QE-17 “Pegasus Fit” insures that every shoe has a comfortable fit that’s neither too loose nor too tight.
- Refined Cushlon ST foam gives runners plush and resilient cushioning and support.
- A raised midsole side-wall adds even more support.
- A larger panel of Duralon blown rubber has been added to the bottom of the shoe. This helps to provide even more cushioning and a more efficient neutral toe-off.
- A more segmented medial post reduces pronation.
- A greater medial arch support provides more arch-hugging support.
MEN’S
- The QMR-1 last fit has a roomier forefoot, making it a great option for the runner who tends to overpronate.
- Refined Cushlon ST foam gives runners plush and resilient cushioning and support.
- A raised midsole side-wall adds even more support.
- A larger panel of Duralon blown rubber has been added to the bottom of the shoe. This helps provide even more cushioning and a more efficient neutral toe-off.
- A more segmented medial post reduces pronation.
- A greater medial arch support provides more arch-hugging support.
To find the Cheapest Price for the Nike Air Equalon+ 3 please click on this link.
Tags: Nike Air Equalon+ 3, nike equalon running shoes, Nike+ Running Shoes, running shoe focus, support running shoes
Topics: Discussions, Latest News, Latest News (Running), Running | No Comments »
Beginning trail running; or hills like white elephants
By Sidewinder | November 8, 2008
For me, there is no greater pleasure than being defeated by the hill. At a distance of 7.8 km across country, and involving an ascent of 440 metres, it measures out its victories in bee stings, bloodied knees, and blisters. But its margin of victory is less than it was a year ago, and now, like the boxer who takes the bout when his opponent retires with sore fists, I stay on my feet.
Let me explain. The hill in question is Dumyat (pronounced Dum-eye-at), the highest of the Ochil range that overlooks Stirling University, and (according to the Scottish Hill Running Calendar) “probably the most scenic and least boggy of the Bog and Burn races”. For on a Wednesday evening early in May each year, 200 or so runners take up arms and legs against its slopes; a tradition that began in 1971, when (explains the Stirling University website) a member of the Psychology Department staked one pound on a bet that no member of the University could, without mechanical assistance, do the return trip from the university to Dumyat in less than an hour. In 1971 the bet was lost by 3 minutes. Today, the record stands at 0:32:52. The times they are a-changing then, even if the psychology department continues to justify its existence one pistole at a time.
As some of you may know, the allusion in the title to this piece refers to the King of Siam who is reputed to have made a gift of a white elephant (a notoriously difficult creature, if it exists at all) to courtiers whom he wished to ruin, and which is rather the effect my brother first achieved when he suggested that we enter the race in 2007. In the event, I withdrew through injury (there are no such things as accidents, said Freud), while Ken finished the race in a downpour, developed a chest infection - he says - from breathing in leaf mould along the route, and has referred ever since to his nostrils as being the keyholes of infection. Next year would be different, we said. And to a degree, it has been.
For what I have discovered is that inside every thin young man there exists an even thinner trail runner, his calves scraped tight against the horizon, ready to whip up the nearest watery ravine. And this year, upon ebb of the winter rains which render Dumyat impassable to all but the most soon-to-be-committed, this blade has slipped his traces. My devil, let me tell you, had been long caged; he came out roaring! So, having been training regularly on the hill since February, as well as having completed the race proper, I wonder if I can impart the following sparse scraps of uncertain observation for consideration in relation to your own beginning trail running.
1. The mud will eat themselves. It’s the vegetation, rocks, streams, wasps’ nests, ankle-deep mud, and occasional furtive couple that make it special. Although such varied and sometimes tricky terrain may induce a spill or two, with due care and attention it’s actually somewhat gentler on your legs than the remorseless open road. Your mind too will come to crave the shifting scenic vista as a distraction from the effort. And while the introduction of an ascent into your route might leave you asking if your body is about to rebel, tip all those pasta meals, vitamins, and aerobic sessions into a thicket of ferns whose shape resembles Boston Harbour, the chances are you’ll simply be left sucking breath through a wound of a mouth.
2. Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stranger. While it might appear from out of the corner of your eye that the regular trail runner has changed out of his epidermis as well as his tracksuit, the resemblance to pages nine and ten of the pop-up Grey’s Anatomy is entirely explicable to the demands of their chosen discipline. None of them play the banjo, and for the love of god don’t try to keep up with any one of them. Also, don’t stare; in twenty years time, and with the right amount of application and no sunscreen whatsoever, this could be you. Ah, yes: the more white hair, the more likely it is they’ll stitch you into a hole in their chaps.
3. Trampling on an enemy who is helpless. Orwell was wrong in picturing the future as an “image of a boot stamping on a human face - for ever”. To be fair to the great man however, trail running shoes were probably unknown at the time of writing Nineteen Eighty-Four. If trail running is for you, then I suggest investing in your choice of shoe the same amount of diligence that you would your selection of a pair for the road. Also, keep them in the garage; that leaf mould will kill you. If you want to take a look at Ransacker’s choice of Trail Running Shoes then please click here.
4. Lessons learned from the Rocky IV training montage. Every generation gets the Rocky it deserves. My own was the Urals-busting, West is best mountain man, who took to running through the Russian snow in order to defeat the Red Army’s steroidal boxing weapon. Stranger things have happened, at roughly the same time too, the covert supply of guided missiles to Soviet occupied Afghanistan by the States for example, or the fact that Russian soldiers of the Cold War era could probably have beaten the combined might of the West to death with their mess tins. Still, irony isn’t everyone’s slug of Vodka. But the lesson is, incorporate some uphill trails into your otherwise flat training programme, and your opponents will fall back into your clutches come that next 10k. Eye of the tiger, my friends, eye of the tiger.
So there it is. See you at the sticking post, compadres; time now to head for the hill in a pair of too-tight ASICS Gel Enduros, bursting with anger. Cry havoc, you might say, and let slip the bogs of war.
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Our Blogger
This post was kindly written by The Sidewider Speaks Tonite a.k.a Allan. In case you were wondering what Allan’s writing alias refers to it’s one of his favorite REM songs, and “tonite”, it turns out, is not a misspelling of “tonight”, but is actually a form of dynamite, hence the odd explosive rant.
Somewhat faster and more cheerful than in his youth, Allan is an educational researcher living and working in Central Scotland. Although most of his writing is today directed towards academic ends, he has in the past reviewed popular fiction and interviewed best-selling authors for The Express newspaper and Bookseller magazine. He is pleased now to be able combine whatever penmanship he can be said to possess with the pastime of running, and thus make various and contrary contributions to Ransacker.
Tags: asics gel enduros, running blog, the sidewinder speaks tonite, trail running advice, trail running lessons, trail running shoes, trail runninng, train running shoesTopics: Discussions, Running, The Sidewinder Speaks Tonite | No Comments »
Runners World Shoe Awards
By Carl | November 7, 2008
It’s that time of year again when the boffins at Runners World Magazine announce their “Shoes Of The Year“. Every November the editors from 14 international editions of RW magazine congregate in NY to decipher their favorite shoes. Here are the results, our opinions and the best prices for the winning shoes.
I
nternational Editor’s Choice: Asics Gel Kayano 14
The overall Editor’s Choice award is given to a shoe introduced in the last year that has impressed testers at the RW shoe lab, the editors and wear-testers from our 14 international editions.
The Gel Kayano 14 has a firmly established reputation as one of the best stability shoes on the market, successfully combining the highest quality design and technology. Testers loved the fit and feel of the shoe: changes to the upper from the previous edition made it more comfortable than ever, while a new lighter midsole foam designed to bounce back more quickly helped make it a pleasure to run in.
What we think: You can’t really fault the Asics Kayano 14 but equally it does not excite. Asics stuck to a winning model and made minor tweaks rather than wholesale changes. For that exact reason the same shoes seem to pick up this award year after year; Asics Nimbus, Nike Air Pegasus…
In our opinion the winner should have gone to a shoe that has still retained its best features but innovated to improve performance and attract a wider user base.
The Men’s Asics Kayano 14 S/S 2008 is available from £74.99.
The Womens Asics Kayano 14 S/S 2008 is available from just £64.95
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International Best Update: Adidas Supernova Cushion 7
The best update awards goes to a shoe that features a significant improvement in fit and feel, materials or technology. The Supernova Cushion 7 is the latest in a line of hugely improved shoes from adidas which won praise from testers worldwide: it’s built on a new, wider last to give a better fit that suits more runners. It also has a new heel-cushioning unit that slows the side-to-side movement of the foot just after impact, giving a more stable, smoother ride.
What we think: There are several great running shoes that could have picked up this award; Asics Nimbus 10, Asics Cumulus 10, New Balance 757, Saucony ProGrid Triumph 5, adidas Response Cushion 17 & the Nike Air Pegasus 25. However the adidas Supernova Cushion 7 has improved in all facets so we can not really object to this choice.
The Mens Adidas Supernova Cushion 7 S/S 2008 is fantastic value at just £49.99.
The Women’s Adidas Supernova Cushion 7 S/S 2008 costs £59.98.
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International Green Award: Brooks Bio MoGo
Sustainability is a tough issue to address in shoe manufacturing, but as more of us become aware of our impact in the environment, brands are more aware of the need to make more ‘green’ shoes. This award is given to the company or technology that best addresses the environmental impact of running.
Brooks BioMoGo is a new midsole foam giving the plush cushioning of Brooks’ top-end MoGo technology, but with a difference. BioMoGo breaks down 50 times faster than conventional foam, saving an estimated 29.9 million pounds of landfill waste over a 20-year period. The material was introduced in 2008 in the Trance 8 (which also featured 100% recycled polyester laces) and will be used in more of Brooks top-selling models next year.
What we think: Brooks must have sponsored this category - what kind of award is the “International Green Award”?!! Take nothing away from Brooks we admire what they have developed with the introduction of the Bio MoGo midsole and their ethical recycling policy. However judging by the competition this really was a one horse race. Perhaps it will inspire the other manufacturers to take a similar stance. We would also like to see Brooks incorporate the BioMoGo into more of their shoes.
The Men’s Brooks Trance 8 costs £98.99
The Women’s Brooks Trance 8 also costs £98.99
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Best Looking Shoe Award: Adidas Response Cushion 17
Following one too many comments about less-than-fashionable running shoes, we decided to have a bit of fun with this new category. The award for Best Looking Shoe is slightly different to the other categories in that it was voted for by Runner’s World website users from around the world, from a shortlist nominated by the RW shoe editors.
What we think? Thank god Gock Wan isn’t a runner, otherwise he’d be horrified at our lack of taste! Surely 4,200 people did not vote for this shoe?! There must be someone at adidas now suffering from severe R.S.I! Ok, we know runnning shoes aren’t neccessarily the most stylish pieces of footwear but RW could have offered their readers a better choice. Below is our alternative selection, all of which are better looking (in our opinion). Just remember though, beauty is only skin deep, if they give you blisters you will soon run out of love for them!
The Men’s adidas Response Cushion 17 costs £58.99
The Women’s adidas Response Cushion 17 also costs £58.99
Our suggestions for the best looking running shoes of 2008.
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Topics: Discussions, Goings On, Latest News, Latest News (Running), Running | 1 Comment »
New Asics Running Shoes: Asics 1140 and Asics 2140
By Carl | November 7, 2008
The most significant development with the release of the new Asics 2009 Spring Summer running shoe range is the launch of the Asics Gel 1140 and the Asics Gel 2140 running shoes.
Asics Gel 1140
The Asics Gel 1140 is the newest edition to the 1000 series which has just gone lighter. The Asics Gel 1140 has been design for mild over-pronators who run long distances, particularly 10k and marathon as well as roads and treadmills.
What’s New? The major difference between the Asics Gel 1140 and the Asics Gel 2140 is the level of DuoMax whereby it contains a smaller segment in the midsole delivering a milder support. The Space Trusstic has been newly engineered in the midfoot to ensure better midfoot stability. The midsole of the Asics Gel 1140 has also been softened as well as the weight of the shoe reducing to a very minimal 328g, the lightest of the series yet.
The most noticeable feature by far on the new Asics Gel 1140 would be the new fit around the heel collar where it has reduced in circumference allowing a better fit around the ankle. The more open toe-box allows the foot to spread out more in propulsion.
What we think: With the subtle but beneficial updates such as a new, roomier fit, added midfoot support, and an improved heel collar the Asics Gel 1140 will continue to challenge the competition for providing the best overall value in a performance running shoe.
The Men’s Asics Gel 1140 costs just £56.00 from Newitts - click on this link for more info.
The Women’s Asics Gel 1140 costs just £59.99 from Millet Sports - click on this link for more info.
Asics Gel 2140
The Asics GT 2140 is the newest addition to the Asics 2000 range of running shoe, evolving from the 2100, 2110, 2120 and the 2130 models. The Asics Gel 2140 running shoe has been design for moderate over-pronators who run long distances, particularly 10k and marathon as well as roads and treadmills.
Although the DuoMax Support System that ensures proper support has remained the same in the Asics Gel 2140, the stability has been enhanced through the midsole tooling and the space trusstic system has been lengthened slightly and more pronounced on the medial side offering more rigidity and preventing over-pronation. The AHAR heel maintains durability at the back of the shoe and helps the Durasponge rubber forefront in cushioning the foot throughout the running motion.
The EVA sockliner in the Asics Gel 2140 has been replaced with a 5.5mm Ortholite ComforDry sockliner, comprising of one-density memory foam material providing a cushioned platform feel and reforms itself after every run.
We Say: As one of the worlds most popular running shoes for 15 years the men’s Asics GT 2140 now features improved stability and upgraded cushioning that feels softer and more comfortable. It is an improvement on the hugely popular 2130 and looks set to become one of the fastest selling shoes of 2009.
The Men’s Asics Gel 2140 costs £75.65 from On the Run - click here for more info.
The Women’s Asics Gel 2140 costs £68.00 from Newitts - click here for more info.
Tags: asics 2140, asics gel 1140, asics gel 2140, asics running shoes, asics running shoes 2009, new asics running shoesTopics: Discussions, Latest News, Latest News (Running), Running | No Comments »
Lament of a Laid-up Runner
By LauraLou | November 6, 2008
I realise my love of running has become more like an addiction when I am unable to run. I find myself daydreaming about running and waking each morning wondering if today might be the day I can run again. I have been sick for several days, with fever and a bad cold and have been lying on the sofa watching depressing TV, but what makes me feel most miserable is that I have missed a couple of important training sessions in my marathon schedule. I feel jealous when I see runners pass by my window, even though it’s icy and their bright red noses should make me feel glad to be snuggled up indoors.
There is a rule of thumb amongst athletes that says if there is something wrong above the neck you needn’t stop training but fever or symptoms affecting lower regions mean exercises such as running are a no-no. However this rule is not always easy to apply, especially when you are anxious about sticking to a training plan.
I know that running when I can barely breathe and have to stop for coughing fits is unlikely to do much for my timimg or improve my fitness, but I can’t help craving to get back out there. As I start to get well there is a little voice inside me which wonders if just maybe a run would do me good, to blow the cobwebs away and make me feel better, just as running does when I have a headache or a bad day at the office. But this little voice must be ignored. I have made the mistake before of going out before I was fully recovered and immediately turned back into a shivering, sneezing wreck, putting my training on hold for even longer.
So I am hiding my running shoes out of sight under the bed, nibbling on kiwi-fruit skins (full of vitamin C, FYI) and channeling my energy into healing thoughts in the hope that this will encourage my body to get well as fast as possible. The good thing is this hiatus has reminded me how lucky I am to be able to run and what’s more, to actually enjoy doing it! Perhaps this will make me appreciate running even more, and make my first post-illness jaunt extra special.
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Our Blogger
This blog post was kindly written by Laura Lou who also has her own running blog called the Running Explorer. We would definitely recommend that you visit Laura’s blog and share your thoughts with her. Her work has been published on websites and in print, covering topics from medicine to yoga and dance. Laura is currently training for the Athens Marathon (this weekend, yikes!), and writes a blog about running as a way of exploring her new surroundings.
Topics: Discussions, Running | No Comments »
New Asics Running Shoes Compared: Asics Nimbus 10 2008 vs Asics Nimbus 10 2009
By Carl | November 6, 2008
The Asics Nimbus 10 A/W 2008 managed to improve on the previous model whilst retaining its time-honoured attributes (and qualities of fit). On the upper, the most obvious innovation was the Asymmetrical Lacing System that follows the curve of the foot and New GEL elements in the forefoot and rearfoot. So far the Asics Nimbus 10 has been a huge success and one of our most popular sellers. Hence we were pretty sure that the Asics Nimbus 10 S/S 2009 would show little, if any alterations, besides color!
Asics Nimbus 10 A/W 2009 vs Asics Nimbus 10 S/S 2009
What a surprise (detect a hint of sarcasm)! Besides the bold choice of color there is very little difference between the 2009 and 2008 models.
Price 2008 vs 2009
Here are the best prices on the Asics Nimbus 10 2008 and the Asics Nimbus 10 2009 as from today (06/11/08)
Men’s Asics Nimbus 10 A/W 2008 - £74.95 from Sportsshoes
Men’s Asics Nimbus 10 S/S 2009 - £84.99 from Millets
Women’s Asics Nimbus 10 A/W 2008 - £69.99 from Startfitness
Women’s Asics Nimbus 10 S/S 2009 - £84.99 from Millets
What do we think? If it ain’t broke why fix it?!
We are massive fans (Angus especially) of the Asics Nimbus 10. Asics have created one of the best cushioned running shoes and loyal fans have just got used to the existing model. So it was probably a wise decision by Asics to only change the color. Is the new model worth the extra £10.00? Probably, if for nothing else than a change of scenery when you take a look down!
For those that are interested the Asics Nimbus 10 S/S 2009 possesses the following features:
- Biomorphic Fit - Biomorphic technology is incorporated into the upper where the areas of highest deformation are found. This ensures a better fit, improved comfort, less risk of injury and enhanced performance.
- Personal Heel Fit - A special foam heel construction that guarantees a perfect fit around the wearer’s heel.
- 3M Reflective - 3M Reflective- Improved footwear visibility when running in low level light
- A-Symmetric Lacing - A new lacing system that acknowledges the a-symmetry of the foot, following an anatomical profile of the foot providing excellent fit
- I.G.S - ASICS Impact Guidance System or I.G.S is a technical shoe design philosophy that allows the athlete’s foot to perform in a more natural manner. ASICS high-tech I.G.S shoes are constructed in a way that enhances natural “gait”.
- Solyte Midsole - Proprietary cushioning material that provides an exceptionally lightweight midsole with excellent bounce-back and durability.
- Visible Rearfoot GEL - The ASICS GEL system is based on a special kind of silicon that enables optimal shock absorption. GEL units are strategically placed in the midsole and designed to enable specific functions and positions
- Visible Forefoot GEL - The ASICS GEL system is based on a special kind of silicon that enables optimal shock absorption. GEL units are strategically placed in the midsole and designed to enable specific functions and positions
- Space Trusstic - An advanced system that creates a pocket between the Trusstic system and the midsole, allowing for greater midsole deformation and more efficient foot function
- AHAR+ - This is a thinner and lighter version of ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. It is placed on heavy contact areas of the outsole to reduce excessive wear.
- Durasponge Rubber Forefoot - A blown AHAR rubber outsole material with high abrasion-resistant qualities for added durability, combined with a comfortable cushioned ride
- Solyte 45 lasted - Enhancing the cushioning and support by utilizing Solyte in the construction of the shoe between the midsole and the upper. Adjusted in density specific to the level of support required from the running shoe.
- Removable ComforDry sockliner - This insole provides the optimum cushioning performance system that creates a cooler, drier, healthier shoe environment
- Gender Specific Midfoot design - Incorporated within Space Trusstic a technology to provide for the different biomechanical function exhibited by the male and female midfoot
Topics: Discussions, Latest News, Latest News (Running), Running | No Comments »
New Asics Running Shoes Compared: Asics Kayano 15 vs Asics Kayano 14
By Carl | November 5, 2008
Asics has just launched their new Summer / Spring 2009 Running Shoe range. Over the next week we will be taking a look at the new models and seeing if there has been more than just a color change. The first model to be compared is the hugely popular Asics Kayano.
Asics Kayano 14 A/W vs Asics Kayano 15 A/W
The Asics Kayano 14 A/W was an impressive update. Several considerable developments were made such as a remodeled upper and a new midsole. Hence we presumed that the 2009 model would only be a change of colorway…..
How wrong could we be?! The new colorway change is unsurprising and a little dull however structurally is where the biggest changes have been made. The Asics Kayano S/S 2009 has taken inspiration from the Asics flagship running shoe the Asics Gel Kinsei 2 and now features the decoupled gel in the rear foot, which works independently to enhance shock absorption. In addition to this Asymmetric Lacing improves comfort as it follows the contours of the foot, as well as the Biomorphic technology in the upper ensures superior fit, greater comfort and a reduced injury risk. Furthermore, the Personal Heel Fit ensures perfect fit around the back of the foot.
Price 2008 vs 2009
Here are the best prices on the Asics Kayano 14’s and the Asics Kayano 15’s as from today (05/11/08)
Men’s Asics Kayano 14 A/W 2008 - £79.99 from Startfitness
Men’s Asics Kayano 15 S/S 2009 - £92.00 from Newitts
Women’s Asics Kayano 14 A/W 2008 - £79.99 from Startfitness
Women’s Asics KAyano 15 S/S 2009 - £92.00 from Newitts
What do we think?
Ok, so we know what you are thinking; is the Asics Kayano 15 worth the extra £12.00? In our opinion, yes. It’s good to see that Asics have made some bold improvements with the Asics Kayano 15. The successful decoupled gel system in the rear foot means that it’s far more efficient yet does not loose any of its support. The styling is a bit disapointing bearing in mind the bold developments of the Asics Nimbus 10 but that can be forgiven as the Asics Kayano 15 once again positions Asics at the top of the support running shoe category.
For those that are interested the Asics Kayano 15 also possesses the following new features:
- AHAR+ - This is a thinner and lighter version of ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. It is placed on heavy contact areas of the outsole to reduce excessive wear.
- Solyte 55 lasted - Enhancing the cushioning and support by utilizing Solyte in the construction of the shoe between the midsole and the upper. Adjusted in density specific to the level of support required from the running shoe.
- Gender Specific Midfoot design - Incorporated within Space Trusstic a technology to provide for the different biomechanical function exhibited by the male and female mid foot.
- Asymmetrical Lacing system - A lacing system the follows the natural curve of the foot to ensure a perfect fit and less friction.
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