Run Moore
Run Moore has reviewed 94 shoes in the Next Pair catalog. Below: their verdict on each, with a source link to the full review on their own channel.
Daily training 55
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"so comfortable" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Escalante 5 trades some of its old zero-drop minimalism for real cushioning via a new CM EVA midsole, becoming a more cushioned, slightly heavier everyday zero-drop trainer while retaining strong value and improved durability at $140.
Best for: Everyday wear and easy-to-moderate zero-drop running for people who liked the Escalante's rounded toe box but want more cushion than the original
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"tremendous value in this shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Escalante 5's new CM EVA midsole makes it noticeably more cushioned than the 4 despite an identical stack height, with improved durability, for $10 more at $140.
Best for: Everyday wear and easy zero-drop running for people who want more cushion than the original Escalante
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"it just fits a little bit better" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A rebrand and fit refresh of the Altra Paradigm — same zero-drop, 30mm max-cushion stability platform, but with a better-fitting, more forgiving upper, a reworked heel cup, and a $10 price cut to $160.
Best for: Runners who want a zero-drop stability shoe with guide-rail support on both sides of the foot
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"it just fits a little bit better" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Condensed recap of the Torin ST as a rebrand of the Altra Paradigm — same zero-drop, 30mm max-cushion stability platform, with a better-fitting upper and a $10 price cut to $160.
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"little pogo stick on your forefoot" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Run Moore considers the Novablast 6 an improvement over the widely loved v5, citing a bouncier, more responsive forefoot, a roomier and more forgiving wide-friendly upper, and dependable outsole grip, all while staying good value despite a small $5 price bump.
Best for: Everyday training that can also handle speedwork and racing (5K up through marathon-day speed), especially for runners with wider, deeper feet.
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"forefoot launch pad" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Moore sees the Novablast 6 as a clear step up from the well-liked v5, with a bouncier, more responsive forefoot and a wider, lighter upper, making it a versatile everyday trainer that's still a great value despite a small price increase.
Best for: An everyday trainer versatile enough for easy days, faster efforts, and racing.
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"very similar to the 10" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A safe, comfortable update that performs very similarly to the Clifton 10, but the reviewer feels the Clifton line has drifted into more of an everyday/walking/lifestyle shoe and would steer a runner toward the new Clifton Pro instead for about $10 more.
Best for: Everyday comfort, walking, and casual all-day wear, or existing Clifton 10 owners who want a very similar, low-risk update.
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"run fast in it" — Run Moore
Best for: Runners who want a Clifton-family shoe that can also handle tempo runs, track work, and racing up to the half marathon distance.
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"much more elevated version" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A meaningfully more 'runnable' evolution of the Clifton line, with a bouncier, glidier supercritical EVA midsole and running-focused aesthetics, though it runs a bit large/bulky and could use more outsole grip in wet conditions.
Best for: Daily training and tempo runs for runners who want the Clifton platform to feel like a genuine performance running shoe again (e.g. training for a 10K or half marathon).
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"looks like a fast shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A solid update that keeps what made the Hyperion Max 3 great, though the more traditional, slightly heavier upper makes it feel less like a race shoe and more like an everyday tempo performance trainer.
Best for: Tempo and fast training days, doubling as an everyday trainer for putzing-around miles.
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"totally locked in and feel totally secure" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The reviewer, who logged more miles in the Hyperion Max 3 than any other shoe last year, finds v4 preserves the standout lockdown and dual-density ride, with the main change being a heavier, more traditional, more padded upper that trades some of v3's racy feel for everyday comfort.
Best for: Runners who loved the Hyperion Max 3 and want a versatile tempo/super-trainer for everyday miles, tempo work, and marathon racing.
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"more universally stable" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Kayano 33 successfully updates the heritage stability formula with a more universal fluid support structure and a wider, more comfortable fit than the 32, while adding forefoot pop and bringing weight down to 10.5 oz — making it a credible everyday trainer and marathon option for stability-seeking runners.
Best for: Overpronators and stability seekers who want a durable, cushioned daily trainer or marathon shoe that remains runnable and lighter than legacy Kayanos.
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"more universally stable" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Kayano 33 transitions to a more universal stability system that wraps the entire foot, resulting in a shoe that is stable, bouncy, and supportive enough for everyday running or longer efforts like marathons.
Best for: Daily training and long runs for overpronators seeking a stable, cushioned shoe; suitable for marathon runners
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"it just runs so much wider now" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A major overhaul of the heritage Rider line that surprised the reviewer with its light, flowy, and fast ride — feeling nothing like the stiff, narrow Riders of old and now competing with top mid-cushion daily trainers.
Best for: Mid-cushion daily training for neutral runners seeking a versatile, fast-feeling shoe at $150
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"it feels fast, it feels light, it feels glidy" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Wave Rider 30 is a significant improvement over previous versions, feeling fast, light, and smooth in a way that surprised the reviewer — competitive with top mid-cushion daily trainers like the Ghost, Clifton, and 880 at the same price point.
Best for: Mid-cushion daily training for neutral runners seeking a versatile shoe at $150
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"it wanted to go" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A bouncy, non-carbon performance trainer that delivers a fast, energized ride on flat terrain, serving as Adidas's answer to the ASICS Megablast in the super trainer category.
Best for: Tempo runs and up-tempo efforts for runners wanting a non-carbon plated super trainer
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"it wanted to go" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Adidas delivers a capable performance trainer with a fun, bouncy pelletized midsole that feels fast and eager to move, though the first step-in feel is a minor drawback for a $200 shoe.
Best for: Runners seeking a performance daily trainer with a bouncy, fast-feeling ride on flat terrain
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"most durable out-sole" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Torin 9 is the biggest update to the line in many generations, delivering a more durable Vibram road outsole, a bouncier and more plush dual-density midsole, and a slightly roomier fit — all at a modest $10 price increase.
Best for: Zero-drop Altra loyalists wanting a more plush, durable, and lively daily trainer; also approachable for runners transitioning from 4mm drop Altra models
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"a little bit lighter, a little bit bouncier" — Run Moore
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"the best Vista I've run in" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The reviewer says this is the best Vista he's run in; subtle plate and outsole tweaks make it a fun, glidey high-cushion cruiser, though he wishes it were $180 rather than $200 and wouldn't race in it.
Best for: High-cushion cruising and long runs of 8-10 miles at a relaxed clip
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"a great all-around trainer from Hoka" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A modest but welcome update to a fan-favorite — minor lacing tweak fixed a forefoot pressure issue some had with the Mach 6, while preserving the all-around versatility that has long made the Mach a workhorse. Good $145 value.
Best for: Runners who want a Hoka that doesn't look or feel like a typical Hoka — slighter frames, gym/treadmill use, beginners, high school/college runners getting into speed work, everyday training that can pick up the pace for tempo or a 5K.
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"stable companion to the Clifton" — Run Moore
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"everyday lightweight trainer" — Run Moore
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"stiffer high cushion shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A high-cushion performance trainer that outperforms expectations — the reviewer's favorite shoe so far this year thanks to its stiff, snappy feel with genuine long-run protection.
Best for: Runners who want a stiffer, high-cushion performance trainer that handles long easy days and track work alike; especially good for returning from minor injuries thanks to the stable ride.
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"hugs the line between neutral and stable" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve is pleasantly surprised: the Supernova Rise 3 punches above its $140 price in the mid-cushion everyday category, feels substantial and runnable, and straddles the neutral/stable line well enough to serve a broad range of daily trainer buyers.
Best for: Runners looking for an elevated everyday trainer from Adidas that blends fashion and function, including those with mild pronation.
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Run Moore notes: At $145, the Flow 3 is a steal in the daily trainer category — a soft-yet-poppy neutral 4mm drop everyday trainer with an improved snugger heel and Altra's roomy foot-shaped fit.
Best for: Runners getting into running or transitioning from a high drop to a low (4mm) drop who want an everyday mid-cushion neutral daily trainer with a foot-shaped toe box.
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"tall skyscraper like shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A great update that streamlines the Gaviota silhouette without sacrificing cushion or stability, and finally adds a 4E width option — Run Moore expects it to convert from a primarily walker-bought shoe to a genuine runner's stability trainer.
Best for: Runners and walkers who need maximum cushion plus motion-control stability, especially flat-footed runners, overpronators, or wide-footed runners who previously couldn't find a stable shoe in 4E width.
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"midcushion stability shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A big leap forward for the Inspire line — the new Energy NXT midsole and lower 10mm drop deliver a much softer, livelier ride while keeping the stability the line is known for. Price bump to $150 and reused midsole name are minor gripes.
Best for: Newer runners or anyone wanting a stability daily trainer that's fun to run in, not just protective.
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Run Moore notes: The most popular everyday Altra road shoe — zero drop with the highest cushion in Altra's road lineup, forgiving toe box, and available in standard and wide. The latest version is the best Torin in recent memory.
Best for: Zero-drop loyalists who want high cushion for longer road runs, half and full marathons
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"for me, it's almost too bouncy" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve finds the Megablast extraordinarily bouncy and light with the most cushion of the family, best for easy/long runs but almost too bouncy to control at faster paces.
Best for: Easy long runs where you want maximum cushion and softness
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"one of the best in that category" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve considers the Novablast 5 one of the best everyday trainers at its $150 price point, with a fun, light, bouncy ride and the forefoot launchpad.
Best for: Everyday training at a $150 price point; one of the best daily trainers in its category
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"the most versatile of all of them" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve calls the Superblast 2 the most versatile shoe in the Blast family, combining elements of every other Blast shoe into a balanced, fast, cushioned unisex trainer.
Best for: The most versatile of the Blast family — long runs, short fast stuff, even lifting/gym use
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"the softest one to date" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The softest and most successful FWD Via to date — finally hits the soft max-cushion brief Altra has been chasing across Duo/Via/FWD Via iterations, though it weighs more than its predecessor.
Best for: Runners specifically looking for a max-cushion neutral 4mm drop trainer — not classic Altra fans who want firmer, more responsive feel
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"wild how light" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A plush, ultralight unplated max-cushion trainer that's almost too bouncy — fun for long runs but Steve reaches for it when he wants a cushioned experience rather than speed.
Best for: Runners who want a plush, fun, high-cushion long-distance go-fast shoe where feeling-the-ground isn't the point.
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"lightweight performance trainer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A great-value lightweight performance trainer that's bouncier, more stable, and more controlled than the prior version — the closest Brooks has come to the old Pure Flow feel.
Best for: Lightweight performance trainer for workouts, fast days, track mix-ups, and high school cross country summer road miles.
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"it's narrower than it was" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A well-judged update that trades a bit of the original Rebel's bounce for a more plush, flowy, supportive ride with a better-for-most fit and improved outsole durability, all while holding the $140 price.
Best for: Half-marathon training — 8–10 mile daily miles, tempo runs, and track work for runners wanting a poppy, responsive daily trainer held at $140
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"a midcushion stability shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A solid upgrade over the v7 — wider, more stable via the H-frame, and more comfortable; doesn't address wishes for a faster or more fun midsole, but sells well out of the gate.
Best for: Runners needing support or coming off injuries (plantar fasciitis, pronation); an entry-level Hoka for people wanting stability and cushioning
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"much more runnable shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve calls this the best Ghost in years — subtle updates (more plush feel, lower 10mm drop, a bit of added stability, more breathable upper) make it noticeably more runnable while keeping the Ghost's heritage intact.
Best for: Runners wanting a plush daily trainer with a hint of stability
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"step-in feel was excellent" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A meaningfully improved mid-cushion neutral daily trainer — softer, more stable, and more runnable than its predecessor, now capable of handling long miles and competing well against pricier max-cushion options.
Best for: Everyday daily training and long runs for neutral runners or those with mild overpronation looking for a plush, stable mid-cushion trainer.
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"it's a little bit softer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve gives the Clifton 10 a solid two thumbs up — the bumped heel drop, slightly softer feel, and added lateral stability make it feel like a genuine new Clifton rather than a repackaged old one.
Best for: Clifton fans who want a soft, stable daily trainer and aren't looking for a performance shoe.
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"much more lateral support" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve thinks the Clifton 10 finds a good middle ground — durable, slightly softer once broken in, with added lateral support and a new 8mm drop that nicely differentiates it from competitors copying Hoka's formula.
Best for: Middle-paced cruising, junk miles, and recovery days; good for supinators who want cushion with lateral support.
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"ride or die zero drop option" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Run Moore calls the Torin 8 a meaningful step forward and the closest Altra has come to the beloved older Torins, with a better upper, straighter last, more secure heel, and held-the-line $150 price.
Best for: Zero-drop loyalists who want a plush mid-cushion neutral daily trainer for longer easy miles or walking; runners with wide feet or bunion issues; people who liked the older Torin 4-era ride and have been waiting for Altra to get back to it.
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"best 880 I've had" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The best 880 yet — meaningfully more plush, stable and better-fitting than v14, though the added weight and maximal feel make it more of a comfort/walk-around trainer than a go-to running shoe.
Best for: Everyday cushioned daily wear and easy mileage for neutral runners or mild pronators who want a stable-neutral cushioned trainer.
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"the little brother to the super blast" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve sees the Novablast 5 as the best mid-cushion performance trainer on the market — bouncy, wide-fitting, and great value at $140.
Best for: Everyday running, 10K to half marathon distances for runners wanting a fun, bouncy mid-cushion performance trainer
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"a more premium midsole" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve calls the Superblast 2 the industry standard among max-cushion plateless performance trainers — fast, premium, and widely beloved.
Best for: Marathon racing, tempo workouts, or higher-mileage days for runners wanting a premium max-cushion performance trainer
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"performance mid cushion trainer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve thinks the Novablast 5 leads the mid-cushion performance trainer category with great width, bounce, pop, and an improved depth/fit over the v4.
Best for: Mid-cushion performance daily trainer for most runners — 10 miles or less is the sweet spot, but capable of 15-20 mile runs
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Run Moore notes: A meaningfully better update than the 860 v13 — wider fit, lower drop, smoother ride, and a more aggressive medial plate make this the Cadillac of New Balance stability cushion shoes for committed overpronators, while costing the same $140.
Best for: Late-stage overpronators who want stability and cushion in a daily trainer that doubles as an all-day walking/work shoe. Not for neutral or supinating runners — the slanted medial plate will push them further to the outside.
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"sleeper hit" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Run Moore's sleeper-hit pick of the year — a stable-leaning Fresh Foam daily trainer that holds up over long miles for runners who break down toward the medial side.
Best for: Half-marathon and marathon training for runners who need a touch of stability while still wanting Fresh Foam softness
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"great performance feel for a shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A pleasantly surprising everyday daily trainer that delivers strong value and performance feel for $140 against stiff competition.
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"softer than what we felt in version two" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Softer, more cushioned, slightly taller super trainer that trades some of v2's snappiness for plush long-run comfort.
Best for: Long, easy, comfort-focused daily miles and marathon training.
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"a tennis shoe feel" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A genuinely unique max-cushion trainer with a traditional drop and flexible midsole; didn't jive with the reviewer's supinating gait but may work for more neutral runners seeking flexibility.
Best for: Neutral runners wanting a cushioned but freely flexing trainer that can double for gym work.
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"a little bit of pronation control" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Moore's shop stocks the GTS 3:1 or 4:1 over the neutral version; it offers light stability in the same cushioned Glycerin package and is Moore's go-to recommendation for most walk-in customers.
Best for: Newer, older, or higher-arch-support-seeking runners who want a touch of pronation control in a max-cushion daily trainer.
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"It is still a bouncy trainer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Zen 2 tones down v1's untamed bounce with a new super critical EVA midsole and improves the upper, resulting in a more plush, controlled, and versatile daily trainer.
Best for: A more versatile, well-rounded daily trainer that can handle slower miles as well as faster efforts.
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"feels like a max cushion neutral shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A major overhaul that moves the Rider from a tired mid-cushion trainer to a soft, lively max-cushion neutral daily trainer, putting Mizuno back with the top brands.
Best for: Neutral runners wanting a max-cushion daily trainer with a plush, full foot-wrap fit.
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"fits way wider and way longer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve calls the Rebel v4 a massive update he personally loves — wider and longer fit, more cushion, better support, and enough rubber this time around to fix the old durability complaints.
Best for: A do-everything neutral daily trainer for easy runs, long runs, tempo and even racing up to a marathon
Easy / recovery 18
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"pitter-patter shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Skyward X 2 is an improved recovery and junk-mileage shoe that addresses v1's upper and forefoot comfort issues while feeling slightly snappier, but it remains a hyper-niche max-cushion option best suited for very specific low-intensity training days.
Best for: High-mileage runners looking for a Sunday morning cleanup shoe or ultra back-to-back long run recovery. Not for speed or racing.
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"a high cushion stability model" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Cloudrunner 3 is a meaningful upgrade over v2 with significantly improved medial stability and a surprisingly roomy fit, making it excellent value at $160; the added weight nudges it toward a stability walking shoe as much as a running shoe.
Best for: Overpronators and flat-footed runners needing a high-cushion stability shoe for running, walking, or everyday wear
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"shocking how light this Bondi is" — Run Moore
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"feels the most dense" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The least exciting of Brooks's three Max shoes — heavy, dense, more walking-shoe than runner. Ghost Max 1 fans (like the reviewer) will find it disappointing.
Best for: Plodding, walking, every-day low-mileage use; mild pronators seeking inherent stability. Not for marathon-training long runs.
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"much more plush, bouncy feel" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A big leap forward for the Wave Sky line — brand-new midsole, wider base, and better upper finally make it competitive in the max-cushion neutral category.
Best for: Recovery and easy days when you want a soft, bouncy, plush shoe; can stretch to long runs at easy pace.
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"narrower than I wanted it to be" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Disappointing third iteration that prioritizes durability over the light, flowy ride that made the original Ghost Max appealing; better as an all-day walking shoe than a marathon-training trainer.
Best for: Walking, all-day wear, durability-first runners who don't need an energetic ride.
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"much more glidey feel to it" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Addresses v1's problems — better upper, stabler midsole, and a calmer, more usable ride; solid value at $190.
Best for: Higher-cushion everyday trainer for long runs, tempo work, and even marathon racing for runners moving up from the Neo Zen
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"it runs narrow" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A heritage stability shoe that has evolved into a genuinely runnable daily trainer with strong durability and support, though it runs narrow and shallow so buyers should size up in width.
Best for: Heavier runners or overpronators wanting a durable, stable daily trainer that can actually be run in, not just walked in.
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"high cushion shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A substantial upgrade over v1 — better upper, stabler midsole, and a more usable ride that fills the high-cushion slot above the Neo Zen in Mizuno's lineup.
Best for: Higher-cushion everyday trainer for easy runs, long runs, and tempo work up to about half-marathon pace
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"much more runnable" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A well-updated Bondi that finally modernizes into a bouncier, much more runnable max-cushion option thanks to the super critical EVA, best suited to neutral runners.
Best for: Neutral runners who want a max-cushion shoe that's genuinely runnable, including longer easy and recovery days
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"much softer feel" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A softer, more versatile update that sits between the old GlideRide and the Nimbus — less aggressively rockered but more runnable and wearable all day, making it a nice bridge shoe in the ASICS lineup.
Best for: Runnable max-cushion daily trainer for neutral runners; could even work as a non-plated marathon option.
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"just too much all over" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A cool-looking max-cushion trainer that the reviewer liked aesthetically, but it felt heavier and like a little too much compared to the 28.
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"the most runnable Nimbus" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The most runnable Nimbus in many years — lighter, lower-drop, and roomier than recent versions, and reviewer rates it at the top of the max-cushion neutral category.
Best for: Runners who want a max-cushion neutral trainer that is actually runnable for long distance, not just a walk-around shoe
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"that smooth efficiency" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A firmer, lighter, slightly poppier update to the Glideride Max that remains the best in its smooth high-cushion rocker category at a strong $170 price point, though still feels far from the original Glideride.
Best for: Smooth, efficient max-cushion daily training and marathon-distance running for runners wanting a glidey 6mm-drop rocker trainer
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"this shoe will get the job done" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A reliable, high-cushion workhorse that Moore would pick as his one Brooks shoe for most runners, despite a heavier upper and a notable price jump to $175.
Best for: A do-it-all workhorse daily trainer for newer runners or those building toward a first half marathon.
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"huge oversized midsole" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: If you liked version one you'll like version two, as it's largely the same DNA Tuned midsole with a new upper; the range is narrow and competitors like the Superblast do the bouncy non-plated super trainer better.
Best for: Fans of the Glycerin Max 1 wanting a heavily cushioned, non-plated max-stack shoe for easy comfort wear; same DNA and fit as v1 with a new upper.
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Run Moore notes: Steve Moore calls the Kipride Max a standout value in the max cushion category, saying at $160 it punches well above its weight and feels comparable to $170-$190 name-brand trainers.
Best for: Max cushion daily wear and training at an accessible price point
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"Max Cushion stability shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve calls the Horizon 9 his shop's most-pulled Mizuno and a tank-like problem-solver whose wide stable base, soft heel, and legendary durability make it an underrated go-to for foot-health and stability needs.
Best for: Walkers and runners needing a durable max-cushion stability shoe for plantar fasciitis, Achilles issues, severe overpronation or supination, and all-day standing or work use.
Long run 8
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Run Moore notes: Reviewer's favorite of the three Brooks Max shoes — bridges Brooks into the high-performance non-plated conversation alongside the Mizuno Neo Vista and HOKA Mach X.
Best for: Fall marathon training and racing; runners wanting a non-carbon-plated alternative to a race-day shoe.
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"a big beefy boy" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A soft-yet-fast $200 super trainer that fixes the Max 2's firmness and fit issues — great for performance-oriented long runs and tempo work.
Best for: Marathon-pace long runs, tempo work, workouts within long runs, or easing the perceived effort of long training miles; also race-capable.
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"had to go up a half size" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Cloudsurfer Max successfully straddles high cushion and performance feel, making it a better long-run option than the Cloudmonster for runners who want to push pace rather than just log easy miles. The reviewer was pleasantly surprised by the fit, smoothness, and quieter ride compared to older On models.
Best for: Runners who want a high-cushion long-run shoe that still feels runnable and allows some pace pushing mid-run
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Run Moore notes: Steve Moore says the Paradigm 8 is a clear improvement on v7, with a softer, more runnable EgoMax midsole and nicer upper details. Still heavy at 10.8 oz but now genuinely runnable, not just a walking-around shoe.
Best for: Zero-drop wearers who want max-cushion stability for daily training, long runs, walking, or all-day comfort.
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Run Moore notes: Reviewer would reach for the R1 over the S1 every time — the wider, slightly bouncier, glidier feel makes it the more enjoyable long-distance option, comfortable enough for marathon racing though not necessarily a 100-mile shoe.
Best for: Long-distance road trainer or marathon racer for runners who want a wide, comfortable, quiet, slightly bouncy ride; great for those preparing for ultra-marathon distances
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Run Moore notes: A genuine love-hate relationship after 266 miles and a marathon — Steve calls it one of his top 2-3 favorites of 2024 for effortless long miles, but the narrow stiff toe box hurts his feet and the outsole has worn faster than peers at the price point.
Best for: Marathon training, back-to-back long runs, and runners who work on their feet all day and need a shoe that does the work on the run.
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Run Moore notes: The best of the SC Trainer lineage and the best $170-$190 plated high-cushion trainer Steve has run in — clean upper-fit, stable cruising rhythm once you warm up, and the strongest version of New Balance's good/better/best fuel-cell tiering this year.
Best for: Plated high-cushion trainer for daily training and long marathon training runs at steady cruising paces — best value in the $170-$190 plated trainer category for Steve.
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Run Moore notes: A niche but effective performance-recovery long-distance trainer that excels when you're going slow, supports better than the NB SC Trainer, but is too narrow up front and too pace-restrictive at $225 to be an everyday option.
Best for: Slow recovery and long-mileage time-on-feet days for runners getting ready for ultra-distance or marathon-distance races.
Speed work 4
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"this is a performance everyday trainer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve's wheelhouse shoe — the one he was most excited about across 28 Kiprun models. Handles a full pace spectrum and is priced well below typical performance trainers.
Best for: A one-shoe-quiver performance daily trainer for runners who want to run easy, tempo, and even 200s in the same pair at a $170 price point.
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"the most unique and different" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve sees the Sonicblast as the most unique and controlled Blast shoe, fast and smooth with a plastic plate that makes it ideal for workouts and potentially marathon racing.
Best for: Workouts, intervals (200s/400s/800s), 5K/10K, and potentially marathon racing for those wanting a smoother, faster but not overly cushioned ride
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"a pinch firmer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Steve prefers the Sonicblast for its denser, plated, efficient ride — feels like the best of both worlds between a carbon racer and a daily trainer, and he's considering racing a marathon in it.
Best for: Runners who want a slightly firmer, plated uptempo trainer that can stand in as a non-carbon marathon option.
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"much more high cushion shoe" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: Hoka fixed the v2 heel-counter issue with a proper heel counter and a better wrap knit upper, making the Mach X3 a much more approachable and enjoyable plated performance trainer. Only real gripe is how loud the shoe is underfoot.
Best for: Versatile plated performance trainer — marathon racing, long tempo runs, track repeats, or everyday training for runners doing 20 miles across 3-4 days a week.
trail ultra 3
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"it's so light, it's so versatile" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The go-to pick of the pair for actual running — same cushioned, zero-drop platform as the Olympus 7 but noticeably lighter and more performance-oriented thanks to its matrix upper.
Best for: Runners wanting the Olympus cushioning platform in a lighter, more run-specific package
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Run Moore notes: The more run-focused sibling to the Olympus 7, with one of the best performance-oriented uppers in the lineup and the same EGO Max midsole.
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"performance was spectacular" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A premium carbon-plated trail shoe that exceeds the hype — light, bouncy, and capable enough to replace the reviewer's beloved Mafate Speed 4 as his go-to trail shoe, with the main drawbacks being sizing inconsistency and a $275 price.
Best for: Long-distance trail racing and ultra marathons, but premium enough that the reviewer plans to use it as a daily trail trainer.
Road racing 3
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Run Moore notes: A well-designed marathon racer — carbon plate, Pebax insert, and TPU shell deliver responsiveness without over-exaggerated geometry; Run Moore's fit was sloppy at true size and needed a half-size down.
Best for: Marathon racing for runners who want a lightweight plated shoe that works with a natural stride.
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Best for: Racing as the lighter companion to the Escalante 4 daily trainer.
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"I was just bounding" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A long-distance step up from v1: more stack, full-length carbon plate, lighter weight, and a more accommodating slim fit make it Steve's pick for half-marathon and marathon racing in the Altra lineup.
Best for: Half marathon and marathon racing for runners who like Altra's foot-shaped fit and zero-drop platform
trail light 3
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"It is so much softer" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: The Speedgoat 7 corrects the fit and midsole missteps of v5 and v6 with a plush super critical EVA midsole and a longer, more secure tongue, putting the franchise back on track as a versatile everyday trail shoe.
Best for: Everyday bread and butter trail running, including faster efforts and ultras
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"didn't love the new upper as much" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A solid, durable, and serviceable update to a fan-favorite trail shoe with great grip and nimble feel, held back by a fussy new upper/lacing and a non-premium midsole.
Best for: Everyday trail shoe for 2-3 hour training runs across varied terrain; a versatile one-shoe option for runners who only occasionally hit the trail.
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"So much more plush underfoot" — Run Moore
Run Moore notes: A major rebound from v6: supercritical EVA makes it plush, nimble, and a worthy mid-cushion trail option alongside the Mafate 5.