Adizero Mana 5 Adidas 7.7oz $80 • Testers enjoyed the Mana’s lightweight performance and cushioning. Recommended for racing, speed sessions and minimalist training, even for mid- and rearfoot strikers. Runs narrow.
AT THE RACES
Tip #1 Adizero Rocket Adidas 7oz $85 • Best for runners who like to race and train without socks. “They almost mold to your foot and you forget they are there,” one tester said. The curved shape, flexibility, firm midsole and sparse cushioning accommodate a fasterpaced forefoot strike. Not a shoe for joggers or over pronators.
BEST VALUE
Gel-Speedstar 5 Asics 8.6oz $90 • Although it’s not the lightest shoe we tested, the Speedstar had the highest praise-per-dollar ratio. It fits snug around the mid-foot, making it very responsive. The midsole was cushy but firm enough for long runs— we’d even consider it for a marathon. Too snug for wide feet.
>> Doubleknot your shoes. That’s right, the simple act of doubleknotting your shoes can prevent the annoying, potentially podium-killing, inconvenience of having to burn 30 seconds re-tying a flailing lace.
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