Saucony Kinvara 4 Women's Shoe

Since its introduction in 2010, there have been few running shoes that have received the attention and buzz to match that of Saucony’s Kinvara. Part of Saucony’s Natural Series, the Kinvara’s legacy continues with the release of it’s fourth iteration in 2013.

Don’t expect any huge departures from the hugely popular Kinvara 3. The 4 retains many of the design elements of its successful predecessor, though a few tweaks (such as an improved upper and the addition of a PowerGrid heel insert) should make for a more enjoyable running experience. Saucony claims weights of 7.7 oz in a Men’s size 9 and 6.7 oz for a Women’s size 8.

What to Watch For

• Revisited Upper: Overlays around the forefoot have been stripped down to increase breathability without sacrificing security, and a redesigned heel collar should reduce rubbing on the Achilles.
• Upgraded Cushioning: We expect that the switch from ProGrid to PowerGrid in the heel will deliver a smoother and more plush transition from heel to toe.
• Color Variety: The May 2013 release will consist of five colorways on both the Men’s and Women’s sides, so there should be something to suit everyone’s tastes.

MSRP
$100.00

Launch Date
May 2013

Men’s Colors
Citron/Black/Green Kinvara 4
White/Navy/Orange Kinvara 4
Blue/Black/Slime Kinvara 4
Red/Black/Citron Kinvara 4
Grey/Yellow/Black Kinvara 4

Women’s Colors
Purple/Pink/Citron Kinvara 4
White/Grey/Vizipro Coral Kinvara 4
Citron/Black/Pink Kinvara 4
Blue/Orange Kinvara 4
Black/Pink Kinvara 4

Saucony Kinvara 4 Men's Shoe

Taro Running Shoes, Sneak Peeks kinvara 4, kinvara 4 preview, saucony kinvara 4, saucony natural series

Nike Free 3.0 v4, Free 4.0 v2, and Free Run 3

In the world of athletic footwear, there have been few models in recent years as iconic as the Nike Free. The first mainstream running shoe built around the idea of allowing the foot to move freely, the Nike Free was a precursor to the “minimalist” movement (it’s development got a shout out in Born to Run). The Free line also has been influential in the design of many footwear offerings today, while remaining a staple training tool for countless athletes.

What Makes the Nike Free Different?
A cornerstone of the Nike Free running shoe concept is the deep cuts (known as “sipes”) covering a grid-like pattern throughout the sole of the shoe. These sipes allow for flexible movement in almost any direction, while the platform still provides some underfoot protection. To encourage a mid- to forefoot strike, the Nike Free platforms have lower heel-to-toe offsets compared to traditional running shoes.

In the upper, the focus is on keeping structure to a minimum. A Nike Free shoe fits closer to the foot compared to a traditional running shoe, but still allows the foot to flex naturally throughout the gait cycle. Lightweight construction keeps runners from feeling weighted down.

Nike’s design intent with the Free collection is to encourage greater activation of the muscles of the foot. This in turn, according to Nike’s research, should result in a stronger and healthier foot.

What Do the Numbers Mean?
Nike Free models are delineated by numbers following the name. Somewhat confusingly, the numbers can mean one of two things – the version number of the shoe or the shoe’s position in the Free family. Bear with us a second here and all will become clear.

Any number with a decimal (x.0) in the shoe’s name is a rating of the shoe’s structure and flexibility. A 10.0 would be a traditional running shoe, and on the other end of the spectrum, 0.0 is completely barefoot. A model’s rating is stamped on the lateral rear of the platform for easy reference. A number without a decimal or with a “v” in front of it is the version number of the shoe. Here are some examples:

• The Free 3.0 v4 is as near barefoot as the Free running collection gets, since there are no Free shoes with a 1.0 or 2.0 rating. The v4 indicates that there were three prior versions of this shoe.
• The Free Run 3 is the third version of the Free Run model. It’s not stated in the name, but this shoe is rated as a 5.0, making it more like a traditional running shoe than the Free 3.0.

Another Naming Wrinkle
Just when you thought you were starting to figure it out, Nike wants to throw you for one more loop. The shoe currently called the Free Run was previously known as the Free 5.0. It went through four versions before the name change. The latest version of the Free Run, the Free Run 3, is being updated in April 2013. So it will be the Free Run 4, right?

Nope. Nike has decided to return to the Free 5.0 name for this shoe. And as we said, there were four prior versions of the Free 5.0. So, you’re thinking, that would make this upcoming model the Free 5.0 v5. Nice try, but wrong again. To avoid the confusion of having two fives in the name, Nike is simply calling this new model the Free 5.0, with no version number.

Summing Up
Here’s where we stand right now with the Nike Free running collection:

• The Free Run 3 (Men’s Free Run 3 / Women’s Free Run 3) is the most traditional of the Free line. It has an 8mm heel-to-toe offset, along with a higher stack height and more structured upper compared to either of the other Free running models.
• The Free 4.0 v2 (Men’s Free 4.0 v2 / Women’s Free 4.0 v2) is the middle child of the Free family, offering a 6mm heel-to-toe offset.
• The Free 3.0 v4 (Men’s Free 3.0 v4 / Women’s Free 3.0 v4) is the most minimal of the shoes in the Free collection. It offers a 4mm heel-to-toe differential and a light, snug-fitting upper.

Which Nike Free Is Best for Me?
This depends on the type of footwear you are accustomed to and the type of running experience you want. For runners currently in a conventional shoe, the Nike Free Run 3 offers the easiest transition into the Free lineup. For runners with more experience in lower profile shoes, the Free 4.0 v2 offers a nice balance of protection and ground feel. Those seeking the lightest weight, lowest to the ground experience of the Free collection will appreciate the Free 3.0 v4, with its sock-like fit and extreme flexibility.

Taro Running Shoes Nike Free, nike free run, nike free running, nike free running shoes, nike free shoes

When it comes to lightweight support, the Asics Gel DS Trainer has quite a pedigree and a pretty substantial cult following. The DS Trainer was the frontrunner in the evolution of lightweight trainers and their explosion in popularity during recent years. To this day, the DS Trainer remains a staple for many runners. Use the scroller below to follow the history of this iconic shoe.

Which DS Trainer was your favorite? Share your comments below.

Images courtesy of Asics America.

Taro Running Shoes, Running Sport Asics Ds Trainer, asics gel ds trainer, asics history, ds trainer history, running shoe history

At some point (some more than others), every runner will encounter a rainy day. While any ordinary being will opt out of outdoor activity when the storm clouds loom overhead, us runners have a different agenda, and it’s likely to include getting a little wet.

A regular question we receive here at the ‘house is what shoes are best for when the sky intends on dumping rain or snow upon us. In most cases, the shoes you already have and love will suffice. Stuffing your shoes full of newspaper following your run can help them dry, and a second pair could come in handy here if your shoes just don’t dry quickly enough.

That said, there are a few considerations that you might not want to overlook when running in not-so-dry conditions in order to ensure a safer and more pleasurable run.

Traction

It’s no secret that rain brings slick surfaces. Fortunately, many shoes provide ample traction even on wet roads. When selecting a shoe for rainy conditions, look for a combination of sticky carbon and blown rubber in the outsole to help prevent your run from turning into a slip and slide.

In colder climates, wet conditions can include snow and ice, which should be considered when choosing a shoe. Shoes with a lugged sticky rubber outsole such as the Salomon XT S-Lab 5 Softground will provide traction in most snowy runs. For more extreme conditions, a spiked shoe such as the Salomon Spikecross CS can provide the grip you need on snow and ice.

Waterproofing/Water Resistance

For runners who prefer to keep their feet dry, water resistant or waterproof upper technologies are available on special versions of many of your already-faved shoe models. Nike’s Shield collection (view Men’s and Women’s) takes several popular offerings and applies a DWR  (Durable Water Repellent) coating, designed to slow the rate of water entering the shoe. In addition, many companies offer Gore-Tex versions of their most popular shoes, like the Asics GT-2000 GTX (view Men’s and Women’s) or the Brooks Ghost GTX (view Men’s and Women’s). It should be noted that though water resistant or waterproof technologies such as DWR or Gore-Tex are marketed as breathable, they do tend to hold heat, and are therefore not ideal for use in warmer climates.

Moisture Management

If it isn’t cold enough to run in a water resistant or waterproof shoe, as counter-intuitive as it may sound, a shoe with an thin and airy, open mesh upper material may be your best bet. The open mesh of shoes like the Mizuno Wave Rider 16 (view Men’s and Women’s) or the Saucony Triumph 10 (view Men’s and Women’s) will hold less water and allow for moisture to drain out of the shoe, resulting in a less slushy experience and a more enjoyable run.

Taro Running Shoes asics gt-2000 gtx, Brooks Ghost GTX, GORE-TEX, mizuno wave rider 16, Nike Shield, salomon xt-5, saucony triumph 10, shoes for rain, shoes for snow

It’s no surprise that no two runners run with the same impact on the ground. Body weight, running mechanics, and pace are only several of the many factors that affect the amount and distribution of force applied with each step. So, how can a shoe be designed to work well for a broad range of runners? Brooks’ answer: DNA.

DNA is the cushioning gel Brooks includes in the midsole of many of their shoes. The DNA gel is adaptive to the force applied to it, meaning that the higher the force, the stiffer it becomes. This way, the cushioning becomes firmer for heavier runners or more responsive when running at a quicker pace.

Brooks DNA uses a non-Newtonian fluid, or a fluid whose viscosity is dependent on the stress applied on it. At lower impacts, loose interactions between the polymers of the DNA material make it flexible and soft. When impact is increased, the interactions strengthen, making the material harder and firmer. For an extreme example, check out this video of people running across a pool of non-Newtonian fluid – they can cross it when running, but when standing still they sink.

Brooks offers its DNA in several configurations in its current footwear lineup.

• Anatomical DNA is the most common application in current Brooks shoes. It is comprised of two discrete inserts in the heel and the ball of the foot for adaptive cushioning upon footstrike.
• Full-length DNA, found in premium trainers, features a single insert spanning the length of the foot, providing adaptive cushioning in key areas from heel strike to toe-off.
• BioMogo DNA does not use a gel insert. Instead, the DNA material is blended with Brooks’ BioMogo midsole compound for adaptive cushioning throughout the platform. This eliminates waste through the removal of insert cutouts, but has the drawback of limiting the ability to target the DNA material to particular high impact points in the shoe. BioMogo DNA is available in all Brooks PureProject shoes, as well as in the Cascadia.

Taro Running Shoes brooks cushioning technology, Brooks DNA

Hey, Northern Hemisphere runners, notice that it’s getting colder? Your favorite split shorts just aren’t going to cut it anymore. It’s time to call in the heavy artillery of lower-body running clothing: Tights.

We’ve put together a list of five tights to keep you running warm this winter. Don’t worry – these aren’t the tights your girlfriend wears to yoga class. These high-tech running tights provide the best protection from winter that science currently offers.

2XU Sub Zero Run Tight

The name of the 2XU Sub Zero Run Tight pretty much speaks for itself. In case you don’t get it, these tights were made for sub zero (a.k.a. freezing) conditions. You know the scene in the movie Titanic where everyone is cold and frozen while sitting in lifeboats/lying on floating doors waiting to be rescued? You won’t feel like those people while running in these tights, thanks to a brushed interior and a front wind-proof panel.

New Balance NBx WindBlocker Tight

Ever notice how wind can have a funny way of taking a mildly cold day and making it feel downright frigid? Probably not, because you’re too busy rocking the New Balance NBx WindBlocker Tight. Thermal fleece lining throughout and front wind blocking panels will keep you running even when the cold and heavy winds try to say no. And who wouldn’t like the stretch mesh panels on the back to keep you super mobile?

Pearl Izumi Ultra Windblocking Tight

This winter, don’t let the cold hold you down. It’s time to make a stand against the oppression of low air temps and run a free man! The Pearl Izumi Ultra Windblocking Tight is the perfect weapon to rebel against winter conditions, with warm thermal lining and wind-resistant paneling. Waterproofing treatment on the lower legs guards from puddle splashing, and side holster pockets provide quick and easy access to your pistols energy gels.

Sugoi SubZero Zap Tight

Look outside. See that? That’s snow on the ground. Good thing you’ve got the Sugoi SubZero Zap Tight for this run you’re about to go on. This tight features a thick, thermal inner lining to protect you from the biting cold, and with a weather-resistant DWR coating, you won’t have to worry about kicking up snow all over your legs. Don’t waste your time sitting by the fireplace – you’ve got a run to tackle.

Salomon EXO III Tight

Think we can put together a blog post on high tech running apparel without mentioning Salomon? Puh-lease. Salomon is the frontrunner in futuristic, ultra-functional apparel for the serious athlete. The Salomon EXO III Tight does more than just keep you warm in cold conditions; EXO Sensifit Agility technology provides muscle and postural support to keep you upright and running, long after fatigue arrived thinking it could slow you down.

Taro Running Apparel 2XU Sub Zero Run Tight, men's running tights, New Balance NBx WindBlocker Tight, Pearl Izumi Ultra Windblocking Tight, Salomon EXO III Tight, Sugoi SubZero Zap Tight

The past month has been a busy one here at Running Warehouse, with many new footwear models arriving just in time for the impending madness that is the holiday season (and yes, we realize its only early November). For those of you spending more time running than constantly checking our inventory, here’s a brief overview of some of the more popular kicks that have recently appeared at our doorstep.

Asics Gel Kayano 19

Asics Gel Kayano 19 Men's Shoe

The latest Kayano treats fans to a lighter package, dropping half an ounce in both the Men’s and Women’s versions. It continues to provide plenty of overpronation support as well as plush cushioning for runners looking for a premium ride.
(Shop Men’s Kayano 19 and Women’s Kayano 19)

Read more…

Taro Running Shoes asics gel kayano 19, brooks adrenaline gts 13, Mizuno Wave Inspire 9, mizuno wave rider 16, saucony guide 6, saucony triumph 10

Chances are high that you’ve either had shin splints sometime during your running career or know someone who has. “Shin splints” is an umbrella term for several different ailments affecting the lower leg, including tibial stress fractures and compartment syndrome. In this post, we’re focusing on the most common form of shin pain, medial tibial stress syndrome (or MTSS).

What Is MTSS?
An inflammation of the tendons along the shin, MTSS results in pain along the medial side of the lower leg. The pain is most severe in the morning after waking up, or during the beginning of a run. Pressing around the affected area will also result in increased pain.

How’d I Get It?
A number of factors can lead to the onset of MTSS. Many beginners get shin splints due to the lack of muscular acclimation to the stress of repeated impact on hard surfaces. Advanced runners who increase mileage or intensity too quickly are also at risk. Excessive overpronation can contribute to the development of shin splints, as can tight and inflexible lower leg muscles.

Should I Stop Running?
Generally, it is best to stop running or to decrease mileage while experiencing MTSS. If you do continue running, do so with caution – avoid hills and harder surfaces if possible. Using a shin splint-specific compression sleeve such as the Cho-Pat Shin Splint Compression Sleeve will support the inflamed tendons and may provide relief from pain.

For advanced runners experiencing mild shin pain during the beginning of a season, running limited mileage may help the body to acclimate to the stresses of increased training, though if the problem is persistent it is best to allow the injury to heal.

How Can I Treat It?
For an at-home remedy, you can begin by icing the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day. To make icing a bit easier and get the added benefit of compression, you may want a product such as the Runner’s Remedy Cold Compression Shin Wrap or the 110% Double-Life Shin/Calf Sleeves.

MTSS also can be treated by stretching the muscles of the lower leg to keep them loose and flexible. Massage can help as well. You can roll out the muscles of the lower legs with products such as the Trigger Point Performance Foot and Lower Leg Kit.

There are a few exercises you can do to strengthen muscles around the shin. From a sitting position, try tracing the alphabet with your big toe. If you have access to resistance bands, loop one end around a stationary object and the other around your foot, then while sitting, repeatedly dorsiflex your foot against the resistance of the band.

How Can I Prevent It From Happening Again?

• Keep your training consistent. Avoid sudden spikes in mileage or intensity. If increasing mileage, do so by no more than 10% per week.
• Keep the muscles of the lower leg loose and limber by incorporating regular stretching or massaging routines.
• If you overpronate, wear a support or motion control shoe that will supply an adequate amount of stability. Replace shoes as they wear out.
• Get your gait analyzed. You may be overpronating without realizing it. Running Warehouse offers a free gait analysis service – just send us a video of you running on a treadmill to info@runningwarehouse.com.
• Avoid overstriding, which places additional strain on the lower leg and increases the likelihood of injury.

Taro Running Sport prevent shin splints, running shin splints, shin splints treatment, shin splits, stop shin splints, treat shin splints

Saucony Triumph 10 Women's Shoe

Our Tweet

Though the Saucony Triumph 10 sports a clean new look and a more flexible ride, it continues to pack plenty of cushioning into a premium trainer.
(View Men’s Triumph 10 and Women’s Triumph 10)

Big Updates

• Redesigned Upper: A new overlay pattern sits below the open mesh for increased support and a refined fit.
• Tweaked Platform: Minimal changes to the midsole/outsole include increased segmentation in the crash pad for a smoother landing and an added flex groove in the forefoot.

Road Test

Now in its 10^th edition, the Saucony Triumph continues to serve neutral runners plenty of cushioning in a premium package. Though the Triumph 9 was a vast departure from its predecessor, introducing an 8mm offset and a significant decrease in weight, Saucony kept the changes to a minimum in this update to the 10.

The Triumph 10 sports a clean new upper design, with many of the overlays switched to underlays – underneath the open mesh layer. Though this may seem like a recipe for blisters, a soft and seamless layer protects the foot, and the entire upper remains flexible and pliable, keeping the foot irritation-free. We did notice a closer fit through the midfoot over the 9, though the toebox remains open and accommodating.

Our testers reported an increase in midsole flexibility in comparison to the Triumph 9, thanks to the deep flex grooves in the forefoot. In combination with a three-part decoupled crash pad for impact dispersion, we found the ride to benefit with a smoother transition from landing to toe-off.

Don’t expect a huge departure in the feel of the cushioning in this update. We found the Triumph 10 to deliver the same softness and rebound as its predecessor, treating runners to a protective, yet lively run. For those who loved the cushioning of the Triumph 9, the 10 should not disappoint.

Runners Say

“The midfoot of the Triumph 10 felt a bit too snug for me at first, but loosening up the laces made it comfortable. Other than that I didn’t feel a huge difference between it and the Triumph 9.” – Matt

“The cushioning is soft, but don’t confuse that with spongy. I felt a good amount of rebound and bounce in the ride of the Triumph 10.” – Joanna

“I have a little more room up front in the 10 compared to the 9, both length and width-wise.” – Larry

Saucony Triumph 10 Men's Shoe

Taro Running Shoes saucony triumph 10, saucony triumph review, saucony triumph shoe test, update to saucony triumph 9

The first track spikes date back to the 1850′s. They were made by runners looking to increase traction on dirt tracks. The first ‘spikes’ consisted of little more than nails driven through the sole of the shoe. Kangaroo leather, touted for its strength and low weight, found its way into the uppers of early spikes. This leather would continue to see widespread use in the uppers of competition shoes until the 1970′s. The pair above, belonging to Earl Spencer of Wimbledon during the 1860′s, more closely resembles a traditional dress oxford than a running shoe.

The time: Early 1900′s. The place: a rural Bavarian town called Herzogenaurach. The story: A cobbler by the name of Adi Dassler begins handcrafting sports shoes, including track spikes. His shoes become known for their build quality, and with the money he earns he goes on to found Adidas, today one of the largest sportswear companies in the world. The pair shown above was one of Dassler’s early spikes, dating back to 1930. For the full story on Adi and his brother Rudi (founder of Puma), we highly recommend Sneaker Wars, by Barbara Smit. Read more…

Taro Running Shoes, Running Sport history of track spikes, Nike Victory Elite, old track spike photos, track spike history