First impressions of the Nike LunarElite+? To be honest, my first impression was “YIKES!”. Neon green trim. I had to look away briefly to check I wasn’t back in the 80s. But then I remembered that I am a runner and therefore don’t care what my shoes look like, its all about the performance. In fact, recent trend suggests that the more garish the better. If that’s the case, then this colour combo on the new Nike LunarElite+ is very much on trend 
And surprisingly I quite like it.
Putting them on, the first thing you notice is that they are lighter than they appear. They weigh in at at just 274g for a size 9. And the inners are remarkably comfortable, thanks to the foam of the LunarLight system. What Nike call their ‘dynamic support system’ includes some medial support, but its so minimal as to be barely noticeable – these are shoes for near-neutral runners who just want a hint of medial support. The fairly low heel height belies the fact that these are designed for mid / fore-foot runners, and from the first outing in them they do this nicely.
The Nike LunarElite+ also boasts a seamless upper. I’m not quite sure if this is supposed to save on weight or just for looks, but hey, it sounds like it was a task to achieve. The outsole is sturdy which lends the shoe to a good bit of training as well as race use, and should give it good durability.
All in all, first impression is that Nike has achieved a good midfoot lightweight tempo trainer which is both comfortable and responsive. And I like the neon green. Over the next few weeks I will be putting the Nike LunarElite+ through some serious mileage as I continue to build for the 2010 season. Please come back soon to read my full review.
RRP : £85.00
Ransacker Price (04/03/10) : £74.99
Weight : 274gm
Predecessor : Zoom Elite
Features : Gender Specific, Nike +, LunarLite system, Dynamic Support, Flywire, Microfiber Synthetic overlays, Dual-layer Ortholite sockliner, Phylon Strobel Last, BRS 1000 carbon rubber, Waffle outsole
Other Recommended Reading
- Nike LunarElite+ Video
- Brooks Green Silence: Initial Impressions
- Nike Lunar Running Shoe Range 2010
- Nike Total90 (T90) Laser III – first impressions!
- Newton Motion & Newton Gravity – Initial Impressions
About the author
I am a professional long-course triathlete for Team Timex - I've a few years of hard work and fun coming up! Here's to the long-game as I work my way up the professional ranks!
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These are the best shoes that I have worn in years. They surpass the LunarGlides IMHO. Your feet feel free and I have not had any problems with blisters or my knees. Would definitely recommend them.