Saucony Kinvara 3 Running Shoes

www.saucony.com, 7.7 ounces
Running footwear is personal, but here’s some straight talk. The minimalist craze is not for everybody; most people will find those shoes uncomfortable once the initial glow wears off. The Kinvara 3 is still extremely light (just under eight ounces per pair), but also boasts a supportive sole with excellent flex pattern that makes running relatively effortless. The original Kinvara was one of the first natural-motion running shoes; this upgrade maintains the four mm heel-to-toe offset that positions the runner’s foot during impact to create a greater range of motion than traditional running shoes (most have a 12 mm heel-to-toe offset). Basically, this allows your foot to flex more, creating a more powerful running stride. For people who’ve never worn these ultralight marvels, the difference is astounding. The upper is made of the company’s proprietary FlexFilm—basically a lightweight, highly dynamic flexible film that’s welded onto the breathable mesh upper to stabilize the foot. Additional security is provided by a memory foam heel pod and exposed EVA foam midsole that maximizes rebound and flexibility. Under the protective outsole are strategically-placed XT-900 carbon rubber pods that increase durability without increasing weight. Our testers, who have logged literally hundreds of miles in the Kinvara 1 and 2 applauded the new, reengineered outsole, with its beveled heel that improves the shoe’s natural rolling motion from heel to toe.