running shoes

Venturing into the zero drop shoe world with Xero HFS II

Are zero drop shoes for you?

Trying out Xero’s HFS II shoe was my first foray into the barefoot shoe movement. Barefoot shoes are characterized by minimalist design and a zero heel drop. This means there’s no difference in the sole height between the heel and forefoot, which simulates running barefoot.

The average heel drop for a running shoe is 10mm, with the heel being higher than the forefoot. These may sound like running nerd details, but if you try zero heel drop shoes, you will immediately become more aware of the ground beneath your feet.

Xero has patented a sole called FeelTrue, which “lets you safely Feel The World, protecting your foot while giving your brain the feedback and stimulation your brain wants,” according to its website. The idea is that you’ll have a more natural running gait and strengthen your feet, which makes you less prone to running injuries.

A black zero drop running shoe, the Xero HFS II. — *Photo courtesy of Xero*

Xero materials and fit

The first thing I noticed about the Xero HFS II was its cuteness. I tried the ombre green and blue Reflecting Pool color. I like the shoe’s flat silhouette, without a big cushy wedge.

Next, I noticed it was the lightest weight running shoe I’ve ever tried. Without that padding, it weighs almost nothing. The sole is also extremely flexible. A wide toe box lets your toes splay out naturally — like running barefoot. The grippy soles are based on tire treads. And many of Xero’s running shoes are made from vegan materials.

The HFS II were comfortable as soon as I put them on. My first time out in the HFS II, I ran three miles. Yes, I could really feel the ground. Maybe more than I wanted.

A blue and green zero drop running shoe, the Xero HFS II. — *Photo courtesy of Xero*

Transition period

After my first run in the HFS II, I researched zero drop shoes and learned that running experts advise a transition period. People are split on the pros and cons of zero drop shoes. Depending on who you ask, this type of shoe can be life-changing. Read more about the pros and cons here.

If you decide to try zero drop shoes, experts say you should start with a very short run (about half a mile) and slowly work up. Since I am training for longer runs, I wasn’t willing to do this right now. Apparently, this is a common problem with changing over to zero drop.

According to fitness trainer Eric Plevin of Fulcrum Fitness in Portland, Oregon, “Given the need for a phased adaptation period, individuals unwilling to patiently revise their training regimen may encounter discomfort or injury risks.” So you’ll have the most success if you patiently increase your distance little by little.

A person wearing Xero zero drop shoes while jumping in the air above grass. — *Photo courtesy of Xero*

Other uses of Xero HFS II

Despite my unwillingness to commit to being a zero drop runner, at least for now, I’ve been wearing the HFS II a lot for other activities. They’ve become my favorite shoes for the gym. Without all the padding, they make me feel nimbler for doing lateral moves, agility ladders, and box jumps. I also liked them for my first try at pickleball.

Overall, the Xero HFS II is a very attractive and comfortable shoe. If you’re ready to venture into the zero drop world, these are a good place to start. And they come with a 5,000-mile sole warranty!

A black and gray zero drop running shoe, the Xero HFS II. — *Photo courtesy of Xero*

Writer received a free sample from Xero for review.

Let’s test out NORTIV 8’s Cloud Harmony Athleisure Sneakers

See how they run.

The Cloud Harmony Women’s Athleisure sneakers have a sleeker profile than the other NORTIV 8 shoe I tried out, the Cloud Walk. NORTIV 8 describes the Cloud Harmony as “tennis sneakers” and recommends them for walking, commuting, light workouts, running, and going to the gym. So, I treated the Cloud Harmony as more of an all-around shoe rather than a serious running shoe. Here’s how they held up.

I first tried out the Cloud Harmony at the gym. Less bulky than many running shoes, these sneakers were good for boot camp classes and activities like box jumps and agility ladders. For workouts like these, bigger shoes can become a tripping hazard. Thankfully, the Cloud Harmony sneakers keep you nimble while still providing enough cushioning for jumps.

A black and white sneaker. — *Photo courtesy of NORTIV 8*

How do they handle a run? For me, the shoes performed well on a four-mile park excursion, even with some wet pavement and a little mud. Still, the treads are a bit shallow, so these probably won’t be 400-mile shoes. On longer runs, I’d opt for something more substantial.

A pair of purple and pink sneakers. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

As for aesthetics, the Cloud Harmony comes in four colors: black, white, mint green, and purple. The latter two are good choices if you like a sneaker rainbow in your closet. The mint design has a purple heel and white sole. I have the purple design, which features a hot pink sole. Perfect for spring, as I feel like an Easter egg when I wear them.

Side and back views on a pair of mint, white, and purple sneakers. — *Photo courtesy of NORTIV 8*

Animal lovers will appreciate that this sneaker is made from all vegan materials. It uses an EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) midsole, a common midsole material. Mesh uppers let your feet breathe, and the rubber outsole helps these shoes grip the pavement. The Cloud Harmony also boasts a supportive insole and a reinforced heel for added protection and stability.

A purple and pink NORTIV 8 Cloud Harmony Athleisure Sneaker. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

NORTIV 8 is based in New Jersey and prides itself on making quality gear at reasonable prices. At $59.99, these sneakers aren’t super cheap, but they are less costly than many running brands.

Writer received a free sample from NORTIV 8 for review.

Reviewing Diadora’s new comfy, vegan running shoe

Here’s the rundown.

The new Mythos Blushield Volo 4 W 2030 is currently my favorite running shoe. When I first put them on, they felt cushier than my regular shoes and a bit too big. They also featured a wider toe box. For a minute, I was worried I might trip. But I didn’t. Instead, the shoes felt broken in immediately. No sore soles with these comfy shoes.

Diadora describes the Mythos Blushield Volo 4 W 2030 as “the ideal choice for quick sprints over short distances or extended low-intensity workouts.” See what goes into making these running shoes in the breakdown below, and research other shoe options in this gear guide.

A white running shoe. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Materials

Mythos Blushield Volo 4 W 2030 is part of the Diadora 2030 project, a series of goals the company is working toward for a greener future. The shoe uses only vegan materials. The upper is made from recycled polyester mesh and virgin polyester. The midsole is 40% EVA, partially biosynthesized from by-products of sugar cane processing. The laces are 100% recycled polyester.

While I like to buy used clothing, I avoid used running shoes because of the worn-down treads. You can feel good about buying new shoes from a manufacturer working so hard to protect the environment.

A pair of white running shoes. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Aesthetics and design

The women’s Mythos Blushield Volo 2030 comes in white with purple trim. The men’s is white with black and cayenne accents. I’m not a fan of white shoes, so I wish this design came in more colors. But aside from that, it’s a cute design. I especially like the diagonal stripe of cork inset and the angular purple zigzags around the laces.

You can tell the design team took their time plotting out every detail. The loop on the heel is handy for pulling the shoes on. The tongue is also noticeably thin.

White running shoes in a brown box. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

About Diadora

An Italian brand, Diadora was founded in 1948 with global headquarters in Caerano di San Marco in northern Italy. Diadora’s North American headquarters is in Philadelphia. While the company started as an artisan hiking boot brand, it now manufactures clothing, running shoes, accessories like visors, and even specialized pickleball shoes.

Bryan Poerner, CEO of Diadora USA, is a long-time vegan. But he doesn’t take credit for the brand using many sustainable and vegan materials. “In general, all companies are always going to look for sustainable alternatives when they make sense,” he said. “And we’re no different. The company is led by people who believe in that sort of thing. But I don’t think it’s an anomaly. I think it’s the way of the future.”

Writer received a free sample from Diadora for review.

Let’s put GORUCK’s Rough Runners to the test

Time for a test run.

When GORUCK began in 2008, Jason McCarthy was in the Special Forces and Emily McCarthy was in the CIA. The two co-founders started their gear company out of Emily’s house in West Africa. Their goal was to build an indestructible rucksack. Now, GORUCK offers several types of bags, plus shoes and apparel. All are backed by the Scars Lifetime Guarantee. If there’s a defect or if you manage to wear something out, GORUCK will fix or replace it. This is a hardcore brand for hardcore people.

GORUCK sent me a pair of its Rough Runner shoes to try out. Out of the box, they felt stiffer and tighter than other shoes I’ve reviewed recently. The last few pairs of running shoes I’ve reviewed have been wider and maybe even a little longer in the toe box, making me wonder if my feet are shrinking with age. Not these. I could feel the fronts and tops of my toes and heel as they made contact with the outside of the shoe. Here’s how they held up on a test run.

Two people rucking through a suburban neighborhood. — *Photo courtesy of GORUCK*

Testing the Rough Runners

As I set off for a three-mile run, I had my doubts. I wondered if I’d get blisters on my toes and heels and have to pack it in after a few blocks. I was more conscious of my feet than usual for the first mile or so. After a while, my feet and the Rough Runners got used to each other, and I stopped thinking about it. I ran farther than I planned and went faster than usual. Was it because of the shoes? Or maybe because it was one of my first sunny, pleasant runs of the year? Either way, everything was working fine.

Then, when I walked for my cooldown, I became more conscious of the shoes feeling tight again. These were more comfortable for me to run in than to walk. After trying out these shoes for three runs and a trip to the gym, I looked up some other reviews. There weren’t many mentions of the Rough Runners run small. Still, if you have a wider foot, I recommend ordering the wide shoe to avoid smooshing your toes into the regular.

GORUCK tried to solve two problems with these shoes. First, they built them for lateral stability. They are designed for weight training and rucking, as well as running. Second, the company claims to include “0% marshmallow foam for better support.” That’s why the Rough Runners feel built up through the midsole without being cushy. The GORUCK website describes typical running shoe foam as “squishy and soft. Like a waterbed, it might feel good for a bit, but it’s terrible for your body.”

A person from the knees down running on pavement. — *Photo courtesy of GORUCK*

Rough Runner aesthetics

As for the aesthetics, the Rough Runners come mostly in serious colors like black, olive, gray, and white, sometimes with more colorful trim. I requested the flashiest pair, an electric blue with white trim and a bright orange sole. They have clean, unfussy lines. The most fun thing about them is the placement of the brand’s horizontal spearhead logo. It’s a Special Forces symbol inspired by Native American spearheads. A spearhead decorates the side of the shoe towards the heel. If you look closely, you can also find spearheads on the tongue, in the footbed, and, my favorite, a little one hidden in the tread of the sole.

A pair of GORUCK Rough Runner rucking and running shoes in blue and orange. — Rough Runners in electric blue. / *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Giving back

In line with the McCarthys’ Special Forces past, GORUCK donates 1% of its gross sales to non-profit partners that support the military. From 2015 to 2020, GORUCK donated almost a million dollars to organizations serving veterans, first responders, military spouses, and other related communities.

Rucking for tough people

GORUCK leads the rucking trend. If you’re not familiar with rucking, it means walking (or running) with weight on your back. The more, the better. GORUCK leads regular challenges in different cities to give average people the experience of a day in the life of Special Forces training. What started as a quality control program to test out gear has developed into a way for people with relatively cushy lives to test their mettle.

After watching GORUCK videos of people running on the crowded streets of New York, crawling through mud, and dipping into frigid water — all while wearing brick-filled backpacks, I felt a little inspired. I wasn’t ready for that much weight, so instead I ran to Doe Donuts, Portland’s finest vegan donut shop. I rucked my way home in my Rough Runners (also made of vegan materials) with a box of donuts beneath one arm. This might not win me praise from CrossFit (a GORUCK partner), but the shoes worked pretty well for me. I’m not sure if I’m ready to give up my life of marshmallow foam and donuts, but I’ll keep alternating between Rough Runners and other running shoes while I think it over.

A person rucking on the beach. — *Photo courtesy of GORUCK*

Writer received a free sample from GORUCK for review.

The 14 best trail running shoes recommended by pros

Find your new faves.

If you’re new to trail running, you might wonder why you can’t just wear your regular running shoes. You can — they just won’t work as well. Trail running shoes are designed to handle wilder conditions than asphalt, such as steep inclines, patches of mud and snow, and areas full of roots and rocks.

Great as trail running shoes are, you’ll still want to wear your regular running shoes on roads. Abrasive pavement can wear down rubber lugs on trail running shoes.

Which shoes are the best for trails? “There is no one-size-fits-all trail shoe,” said Steve Moore, owner of Run Moore, a specialty shoe store in Maryland. “The best trail shoe for you depends on factors such as foot shape, injury history, and the types of trails you run on.”

So, to find some of the best trail running shoes, we surveyed avid trail runners to get their opinions. Here’s what they had to say.

Here’s what runners can expect from NORTIV 8’s Cloud Walk sneakers

It’s time for a test run.

NORTIV 8 advertises the Cloud Walk as an athleisure sneaker suitable for road running, dog walking, gym going, bike commuting, or just wearing around town. I tried out a pair, and here’s what I found.

First, the basics. The Cloud Walk comes in three colors for men and six for women. Most are in the black/white/gray family, except for the women’s choices of pink and mint green-pink. I requested a pair in the striking and unusual mint green-pink color option. The shoes are pink in the front and ombre their way to mint green in the back, with matching green laces.

A pair of pink and mint green running shoes. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

At the gym, my trainer said it looked like I’d stepped in bubble gum. I interpreted this as a good thing; I’m not a fan of boring workout shoes. The sneakers also feature toes and heels reinforced with metallic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film for added durability. It adds an aesthetically pleasing touch, making the toes glow like rose gold. People who avoid products with animal ingredients will be happy to know that the Cloud Walk sneakers are made from synthetic materials.

So, how do the Cloud Walk sneakers perform? The shoes manage to be pretty lightweight while remaining cushy and supportive. The midsole has more than an inch of shock absorption. They also have breathable mesh uppers and well-padded heels for those of us prone to heel striking. I took them running in the park on a rainy day, and they performed well as far as traction.

A pair of Nortiv8 Cloud Walk sneakers in black and blue. — Cloud Walk sneakers in the more restrained but still attractive black/blue combination. / *Photo courtesy of Nortiv 8*

NORTIV 8 describes itself as an outdoorsy brand making quality gear at a low price point. The U.S.-based company offers hiking boots, sneakers, military tactical boots, sandals, and water shoes, all at reasonable prices. At $45.99, the Cloud Walk is a lower-priced running shoe than many leading brands. For runners on a budget, NORTIV 8 is a brand to keep in mind. Plus, the company offers a student discount, making vegan-friendly running shoes even more accessible.

Nortiv 8 provided Outdoors Wire with a product sample for review.

Your essential running gear guide, from shoes to workout clothes

Gear up.

Take your running game to the next level. With the right gear, you can optimize your performance and make running more enjoyable. After all, running is always easier when you’re not getting blisters from bad shoes.

Still, it can be difficult to find gear that suits you. Do you need workout clothes with compression and support? Are your running shoes making you overpronate? Can’t find socks that feel comfortable? We get it. The running experience can be frustrating when you don’t have the right tools. Make it easier with this compilation of the best runner gear for all your needs.

Find everything from running shoes, workout clothes, socks, running belts, and more here.

Running socks

Workout clothes

Other running gear

The best running shoes of 2024

Start off on the right foot.

Just as beauty is subjectively in the eye of the beholder, the best shoe is on the foot of the runner. Most long-term runners have their go-to brands. For me, it’s usually Nike or Saucony. But what are other runners loving in 2024? This round-up of promising running shoes includes tried and true brands, plus one just entering the sneaker game. I called on a group of runners from Portland, Oregon, to weigh in on their favorite shoes. See what they had to say with this list of the year’s best running shoes, sneakers, and trainers.

Need some seriously good socks to pair with your shoes? Check out this list of the best running sock brands.

Are Hoka running shoes worth the hype?

Find out here.

Hoka emerged in 2009 and hit U.S. stores a year later. It’s known for kicking off the maximal cushioning trend. This cushioning supposedly makes the shoes especially comfortable for long distances. They were originally designed in France for running down steep mountains like the Pyrenees, Dolomites, and Alps.

The brand’s full name is Hoka One One, which comes from the Maori language and means “to fly over the earth.” And people do seem to fly in their Hokas, judging from athletes like Karl “Speedgoat” Meltzer winning many 100-mile races in the Hoka shoe named after him. Both trail and road racers favor Hokas. Most of the brand’s shoes cost between $125-$250. Not cheap, but in a normal range for high-quality running shoes.

According to the Hoka website, “HOKA was born out of the unwavering belief that if you ignored the doubters, brushed off the critics and poured your heart into a wild idea, it was possible to create a shoe that let people fly down mountains.”

While Hoka has a base of brand loyalists, it also has its doubters and haters. So, you may ask, are Hoka shoes worth it? Let’s discuss.

A red, gray, orange, and blue Hoka shoe. — Hoka Tecton X 2 Trail Running Shoe (Backcountry)

What people really think about Hoka shoes

“I have a love-hate relationship with them,” Chris Pruitt, certified personal trainer and CEO of Workout Healthy, said. He likens the cushioning of Hoka’s Speedgoat model to running on clouds. “So they’re extremely comfortable and great for those long runs. But durability? That’s where I’m torn. Sure, they’re comfortable, but they don’t always last as long as I’d like. I’ve noticed the initial cushioning gets less “cushiony” after about 3 months. But yes, I’m a fan of the comfort Hoka brings to the table, but I wish they’d hold up a bit better over time.”

Aashish Rrastogi, CEO of SportsUncle, agrees that Hokas are comfortable. “Hoka shoes are renowned for their exceptional cushioning, a boon for long-distance runners,” he said. “It helps in reducing impact stress on joints,” Rrastogi adds. “They offer excellent arch support and a comfortable fit to prevent foot fatigue during prolonged runs.”

But he also shares Pruitt’s durability concerns. “In some models, the outsole may wear down faster than expected, especially for heavy runners or those running on rough terrain,” Rrastogi said.

Rrastogi also diplomatically criticizes these shoes’ beauty. “Some runners might find the bulky appearance less appealing. The design, focused on function, sometimes overlooks fashion-forward elements.”

Are Hoka shoes right for you? Well, Rrastogi recommends them for runners seeking maximum cushioning and support, especially those prone to joint pains or recovering from injuries. Long-distance runners who need shoes that minimize impact over miles may also enjoy Hokas.

A green and blue Hoka shoe. — Hoka Tecton X 2 Trail Running Shoe (Backcountry)

Hoka haters

Some people unequivocally fall into the anti-Hoka camp. Joel Hereth, a marketing professional who raises money for charity by running his age in mileage every year on his birthday, is not a Hoka fan.

“Hoka shoes in my opinion are overrated,” he said. “I’ve tried all the different running shoes and Hoka are one of the worst. They’re comfy for the first few miles, but if you’re doing any real distance training, they’re too heavy and will ultimately hurt your knees more than help.”

Hereth isn’t the only one to take issue with Hokas. One-star reviews on some of the brand’s shoes include complaints about discomfort and “rips in the fabric.”

A black, gray, yellow, and blue Hoka shoe. — Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail Running Shoe (Backcountry)

Benefits for non-runners

In Oregon, Original Goat Yoga founder Lainey Morse has a different use for her Hokas. “I used to be a runner, but now I just do guided tours,” Morse explains. She switched from boots to Hokas due to blisters. “I have arthritis and I’m telling you….they are AMAZING! I haven’t had any problems since I switched.”

So, there you have it. You might be a runner who wants to race down a mountain with the massive cushioning of your Hoka Speedgoats. Or maybe you just want to walk with goats in comfort. Either way, these accounts should help you determine if Hoka shoes are right for you.

Spring running essentials 2023: Everything you need to start running outdoors… again

Celebrate the start of spring with our list of best running gear. From compression shorts to running shoes, we’ve got you covered.

At long last, spring is here. The weather is getting warmer, the flowers are finally blooming, and it’s time for your outdoor running program to begin again.

No matter if you’re a successful sprinter, journeyman jogger, or have been dreading this moment for months, FTW has all the gear you need in order to make the most of the spring season.

Everybody knows the importance of good running shoes, but don’t forget about other important elements of a successful run including comfort, flexibility, and recovery.

Whether it’s your first time jogging or you’re in it for the literal long run, we’ve got you covered with running essentials your outdoor season.