Monday 4 June 2012

Review: Newton Distance Running Shoes

A present to myself after the inaugural first Marathon completion which qualified me for Boston 2013, I decided to treat myself to the up and coming shoe-makers - Newton.  My first pair of Newtons are the "Distance" and I do not foresee them being my last.

Brief History


Newton shoes was founded by Russell, an inventor situated in Colorado.  He was puzzled by the way shoes had been crafted for the last century, and realized the biomechanical imperfections placed by modern footwear.     His invention allowed for a more natural footstrike and he attempted to sell his product to the likes of NIke and Adidas, with no success.

Russell eventually signed the rights of his product over to Danny Abshire and Jerry Lee, a specialist in orthopedics and real estate businessman, respectfully.  These two men shaped the future of Newton Shoes and have built a strong reputation in the running and triathlon world with there fairly pricey product.

Newton Distance


As per their website - this is their description of the Distance 2012 runner:


The Distance neutral light weight trainer is engineered for the Natural Running gait with a level-to-the-ground profile and our Action/Reaction Technology™ (in the forefoot only). This high-mileage, light weight trainer is perfect for everyday training, or racing any distance, from a 5k to the ultra marathon.
Sizing: For customers who are new to Newton Running, this shoe runs true to size. Current Newton Running customers may wish to go down a half size from your current Newton Running size.
UPPER
  • Highly breathable, fast-drying, open screen mesh
  • Minimal anatomical support strapping
  • Metatarsal stretch panels
  • Variable fit
  • Slip-proof laces with heel-securing double eyelets
  • Reflective heel logo
MIDSOLE
  • Action/Reaction Technology™ in forefoot
  • Biomechanical metatarsal sensor plate
  • High rebound EVA
  • Met-flex enhanced forefoot flexibility
  • ETC anti-friction, anti-bacterial sockliner
  • Accommodates orthotics
OUTSOLE
  • High-density rubber
  • Exposed EVA foam heel
  • Minimal surface contact area
GREEN FEATURES
  • 100% recycled laces, webbing, insole topcover
  • 100% recycled box, packaging

Review

These shoes do exactly what they say.  I have done 3 runs (approximately 45 minutes in duration) with these shoes and they truly do promote a midfoot to forefoot strike.  Furthermore, I even beat my personal best on one of my routes by 30 seconds, which was a lot considering I was not attempting any race pace run.  I feel quite comfortable in recommending these shoes to experienced runners who have a great base of strength.  They do take a considerable amount of time to break in as the feeling will provoke strain to new muscles.  I felt some strain in my calves after the first outing - however it has subsided after the third run.

I love the Newton Distance 2012.  They have a roomy toe box which allows for considerable splaying of toes.  The heel support is unparalleled to other offerings in this weight category.  The colors are vibrant and I will definitely be a returning customer!

Check them out here to find the nearest retailer for you.

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