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by Joe Brinkmann
Well don’t be. In this month’s issue, I will save you the time and effort, so give me 5-10 minutes and your questions will be answered.
First off, let’s start with what is the primary cushioning property of almost all running shoes – EVA, or Ethyl Vinyl Acetate, to be more precise. This is a petroleum based compound that has been found to be extremely shock absorbent as well as very durable. The EVA material makes up the mid-sole of the running shoe, therefore, it is what separates you from the ground. What manufacturers also found is that they could further improve the cushioning aspects of a running shoe by adding more technical pieces to this mid-sole construction. Examples of this are ADIPRENE (Adidas), ABZORB (New Balance), GEL (Asics), HYDRAFLOW (Brooks), WAVES (Mizuno), AIR units (Nike), GRID (Saucony), and so on. The typical locations of these materials are in the heel and forefoot areas that usually take the highest level of impact.
In addition, manufacturers use a removable sockliner in all quality models.This can easily be removed to accommodate an orthotic or higher cushioned insole. For higher-end models, they have replaced this base insole in favor of a plusher, more fitted version. This improvement has enhanced first-feel fit and adds a degree of cushioning not present in many introductory models.
These two pieces are only the first parts of the puzzle. Within each line there are subtle and major upgrades available. Read on to learn more…
So as we begin to take a closer look at the varieties of running shoes available, it only makes sense that the shoes that are designed with more technical enhancements tend to carry a bit higher price. Let’s use Asics as an example. First, Asics and every other manufacturer make lower-end models that are found at most “Big Box” chains. Though sometimes possessing some of the same components, these shoes usually are lacking the quality, support and cushioning found in most running shoes. Asics’ base shoe in our lineup is the Asics 1120 ($79.99). This shoe now has an upgraded level of EVA called SPEVA along with two modest GEL pads in the heel and forefoot. As we go to the 2120 ($94.99), we pick up Asics new SoLyte mid-sole as well as bigger GEL in both the heel and forefoot. To go a step further, we move into the Kayano ($134.99) which is designed with a Biomorphic fitting upper, full SoLyte mid-sole, and even bigger GEL units in the heel and forefoot. And, at the top of the list is the Kinsei 2 (just released at $179.99). The engineering behind this shoe is unparalleled with a unique blend of cushion, flexibility and support.
In a billion dollar industry that is constantly changing, there are teams of scientists and engineers spending countless hours trying to find the new shoe technology that will set their products apart. As for you, you simply are looking for what is the “BEST SHOE FOR YOU”, and that’s what you have to keep in mind. Not what is best for your friend, neighbor, sister, or father…but for you.
We are finding it more and more common for people to move up to a higher class of running shoe because it makes their time on the roads that much more enjoyable. Is it a necessity for every runner? Absolutely not. Can it make a difference in your running and is it worth some consideration? Absolutely yes.
So the next time you stop in the Running Spot, don’t be afraid to ask the
question. You might be glad you did.
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