New Balance 1260v6
$150 1 of 10
New Balance has pulled out all the stops for the sixth edition of its premium stability series, the 1260. A combination of ABZORB, N2 and REVlite foams cushion each step, and we felt a marked improvement over the previous model.
But stability is where the 1260v6 really shines. The T-BEAM support and a dual density post increase midfoot stability--although we enjoyed the shock absorption and torsional stability when heel-striking, too.
While not the lightest pair on this list, we'll take the couple extra grams for the more supportive and durable ride. And despite lacking a heel loop, we found the 1260v6 was easy to take on and off in a mock transition.
Specs:
Weight: 11.5 oz (Men's Model)
Drop: 8 mm
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TriathlonMizuno Wave Sayonara 4
$110 2 of 10
If shoe weight and responsiveness are high on your list of features, the Wave Sayonara 4 will not disappoint. The low-profile midsole and mesh upper keep weight down and the U4ic midsole is firm and snappy.
The 10 mm offset promotes a quick heel-toe transition, and overall the shoe encourages quick pace changes.
While not the plushest on this list, the Sayonara 4 is designed for runners and triathletes who are looking for a lightweight neutral trainer with great foot protection and responsiveness.
Specs:
Weight: 9 oz (Men's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 28 mm / 18 mm
Drop: 10 mm
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TriathlonSkechers GoMeb Strada 2
$129 3 of 10
Seen on the feet of multiple IRONMAN champion Lionel Sanders, the GOmeb Strada 2 is a neutral trainer designed for high-mileage wear. The Resalyte midsole cushioning and M-Strike Technology promotes a natural midfoot strike, and we noticed the shoe begged for a quicker cadence.
Together, the molded heel counter and Tri-Ply mesh upper securely holds the foot in place, with no hotspots or slippage. The Strada 2 has a roomy toebox and the Passive Stability Support Pillars adds just the right amount of support.
Don't let the brand name fool you, the Strada 2 is a performance-oriented shoe that can compete with others at a similar price point.
Note: Size up half a size for a better fit.
Specs:
Weight: 9.6 oz (Men's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 25 mm / 17 mm
Drop: 8 mm
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TriathlonBrooks Glycerin 14
$150 4 of 10
You don't get to your 14th model by accident. This classic shoe is one of Brooks' signature products, thanks to its ultra-cushioned design that will make pavement pounding feel like a walk in the park.
The newer model carries over many of the same likeable features from the previous shoe (such as the smooth midsole), but Brooks has tweaked the 3D Stretch Print design for a better fitting, more customizable upper. Pair that with the sole's renowned cushion, and the Glycerin 14 is the perfect IRONMAN marathon shoe all long-distance triathletes hope for.
Specs:
Weight: 10.6 oz (Men's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 29 mm / 19 mm
Drop: 10 mm
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TriathlonAsics Gel-Kayano 23
$160 5 of 10
The latest in ASICS' well-regarded GEL-Kayano line, the 23rd iteration of this staple that dates back to 1993 is a welcomed addition to the catalogue.
New, vibrant uppers aside, this update physically bears a resemblance to the Kayano 22. However, the addition of the FlyteFoam midsole cuts weight while adding a cushioned feel to the heel and midfoot. And the FluidFit upper, which is completely seamless, provides a highly adjustable yet supportive fit.
We also found the fit around the heel far improved from the 22's, which were a little too wobbly for our taste.
Ultimately, the shoe performed exceptionally well, providing plenty of comfort, traction and support on longer runs and through whatever terrain we threw its way.
Specs:
Weight: 11.5 oz (Men's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 22 mm / 12 mm
Drop: 10 mm
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TriathlonHoka One One Clifton 3
$130 6 of 10
Super popular in the IRONMAN triathlon scene, this update of Hoka One One's popular Clifton addresses a longstanding complaint: shoe width. A wider forefoot now allows toes to splay naturally, ultimately increasing comfort on long runs.
For a shoe with a 29 mm sole, the Clifton 3 is impressively light thanks in part to its new SeamlessSpeed frame upper. Paired with the wider toebox, previous hotspots with the Clifton 2 were a nonissue on this model update.
The Meta-Rocker Geometry helped compensate for the added volume of the shoe, and we never felt limited by the excess EVA midsole cushioning. If you are a high-volume runner, the Clifton 3 remains the gold standard.
Specs:
Weight: 7.4 oz (Women's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 28 mm / 23 mm
Drop: 5 mm
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TriathlonSaucony Omni 15
$130 7 of 10
Stability and versatility are usually mutually exclusive, but the redesigned Omni 15 combines support, cushioning and flexibility together in one highly runnable package.
The tri-flex outsole does a great job neutralizing the impact throughout the heel-midfoot transition, and the wide toebox has the right amount of room for toes to naturally splay. The overhauled upper was hotspot-free as well, and the Flexfilm material was both supportive and breathable.
A surprisingly well-rounded shoe, the Omni 15 is a supportive trainer that can excel at any distance you throw at it.
Specs:
Weight: 9.1 oz (Women's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 27 mm / 19 mm
Drop: 8 mm
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TriathlonUnder Armour Speedform Slingride
$100 8 of 10
New for 2016, the Speedform Slingride is a flexible, neutral running shoe designed for short, quick efforts.
The upper is the shoe's biggest draw--the woven Dyneema fabric is surprisingly durable and breathable, and it conforms to the foot for a soft, sock-like feel. Its low profile construction has a stylish and fast look that we're fond of, too.
The sole combines a soft and hard layer of foam to increase both cushion and support, and we found it to be unexpectedly quick and agile. Perfect for sprint and Olympic-distance triathlons, the Speedform Slingride looks great and performs excitingly well.
Specs:
Weight: 7.45 oz (Women's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 22 mm / 14 mm
Drop: 6 mm
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TriathlonOn Running Cloudventure
$150 9 of 10
Engineered in Switzerland and tested in the Swiss Alps, the On Cloudventure is a lightweight trail shoe with some standout features.
The unconventional shoe features a built-in booty-style "sock" that is surrounded by a layer of engineered protective mesh. While we were able to cinch the upper down appropriately with the progressive closing system, it is obvious that thicker feet are more appropriate for this shoe.
The sole is where the Cloudventure really shines. Made up of 11 pods that compress upon impact, the sole feels surprisingly supple and stable--even during quick lateral movements dodging rocks out on the trail. If you're a triathlete who trains on the trails or indulges in off-road triathlons, this may be your new favorite pair of running shoes.
Specs:
Weight: 10.1 oz (Men's Model)
Profile (Heel/Forefoot): 20 mm / 14 mm
Drop: 6 mm
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