Altra Instinct 1.5 - New Fall 2012

The award-winning Instinct from Altra Zero Drop Footwear will be seeing an upgrade this fall. Altra Instinct 1.5 continues the marriage between zero drop minimalism with support and cushioning. A wide toe box throughout the forefoot allows for natural foot splay, while the Zero Drop Platform allows runners to maintain proper running technique. The midsole of the Instict 1.5 contains 12mm of dual layer EVA with A-Bound cushioning on top. The road running outsole is designed with a 4.5 mm Footpod rubber and harriers will find an improved upper mesh. Additionally, the Instinct 1.5 will offer a full length seamless inner lining with wicking properties. Altra Instinct 1.5 weighs 8.9 oz and can be found this fall Fall for $94.

Mizuno Wave Creation 14 - Spring 2013

The fourteenth iteration of the Mizuno Wave Creation will be releasing in Spring ‘13. Little changes have been made to the Creation’s midsole and outsole, as it continues to feature Mizuno’s Wave technology. Main changes occur in the uppers design as the Wave Creation 14 will give runners a streamline design that is much lighter weight. This neutral cushioned shoe has a 12mm heel-to-toe drop and weighs 11.0 oz.

Source: Running Village

Salomon S-Lab Sense - Color Update

With years of innovation and the guidance Ultra Marathoner and 2011 Western States Champion Killian Jornet, Salomon released the minimal S-Lab Sense in 2012. As Killian continues to dominate the Ultra distances, Salomon will be introducing a color update for Spring 2013. The technical aspects of the S-Lab Sense remain the same, weighing 7.4 oz and 4mm heel-to-toe drop. $180  

Source: Alpenglow Sports

Salomon XR Crossmax 2 - Spring 2013

After three strong years of trail performance, Salomon will be updating the XR Crossmax for 2013. The neutral XR Crossmax 2 offers trail junkies an updated outsole, toe box and midsole composition. A segmented EVA midsole increases flexibility for a quicker transition, while the OS Tendon technology gives runners stability and energy transfer. Overall outsole lug depths have been scaled down and Salomon utilizes duel-density Contragrip rubber. The XR Crossmax 2 offers a wider toe box then its predecessor and Salomon’s SensiFlex technology has been streamlined to reduce metatarsal irritation. This ideal training hybrid weighs 11.3 oz and has an 11 mm heel-to-toe drop (20mm-9mm). Look for the XR Crossmax in Spring 2013 for $140.  

Source: Alpenglow Sports

Dave Wottle - 1972 Olympic 800m

As the torch ignites for the London Olympic games, one50South reminisce about some of the great races we have seen throughout 112 year history of the games. The Munich games in 1972 brought many great performances from the likes of Lasse Verin, Frank Shorter and Steve Prefontaine. Above we see Dave Wottle and his infamous ball cap in the 800m final.

Zoot Ultra Race 4.0 - Spring 2013

For Spring 2013, Zoot will be unveiling the Ultra Race 4.0. Coupling Zoot’s Ultra Fit upper and BOA’s dynamic lacing system, the Ultra Race 4.0 gives runners a speedy, custom fit. Boa’s steel lace system is quickly secured with a simple turn of a knob. This means a smoother transition and secure fit for triathletes. The Zoot Ultra Race 4.0 will release Spring 2013 for $180.      

Adidas Primeknit Upper Technology

The battle of one-piece upper running shoes seems to be shaping up nicely. Today, Adidas countered Nike’s Flyknit technology with a launch of their own minimal upper. Remarkably similar to the Flyknit, Adidas’ Primeknit will be released tomorrow and should be seen in many Adidas models to come. “This revolutionary design will forever change the way we engineer shoes, combining both premium innovation and maximum performance benefits,” says James Carnes, head of design for Adidas sport performance. The Primeknit upper, which is pictured above, offers runners a fused yarn upper which is digitally knitted to give athletes a sock like feel. Shoes using Adidas Primeknit utilized this unique seamless engineering that wraps the foot for a comfortable fit. This shoe will be available tomorrow at Adidas’ temporary store in London for the Olympic Games.

Source: Allan Brettman (The Oregonian)

 

Merrell Bare Access 2 - Spring 2013

Running Warehouse recently posted the above video on Merrell’s Bare Access 2 that will be available this Fall 2012. Jon, from Merrell, discusses the updates Merrell has made to this minimalist road runner since the original Bare Access 1. The Bare Access 2 offers runners a 00mm heel-to-toe drop and a 15mm stack height. Merrell has updated the upper as well as the outsole giving runners a full length Vibram outsole. The Bare Access 2 weighs in at 7oz and cost $90. Men’s and Women’s styles can be seen below.

Nike Flyknit Trainer+ 10 Colorways

Coming Fall Nike will be releasing 10 colorways of the Nike Flyknit Trainer+. Unlike traditional stitching and welding, FlyKnit is entirely made within a machine that was previously used to knit sweaters and socks. Through this process, Nike has essential built a sock like upper that gives runners superior fit, breathability and is feather light.

Source: CounterKicks

La Sportiva Helios - Spring 2013

The Helios from La Sportiva is another minimalist trail runner releasing in Spring 2013.Weight has been significantly reduced thanks to a deconstructed upper design that utilizes minimal overlays, a “sock like” liner and increased breathability. Weighing 16.2 oz, the Helios has a 4mm heel-to-toe differential and uses La Sportiva’s MorphoDynamic technology throughout the midsole. Found in many other models, MorphoDynoamic allows the shoe to adapt to varying roughness of terrain and increases traction. Added protection can be found in the midfoot from a 2mm anti-shock plate. Look for the La Sportiva Helios in 2013.  

Pearl Izumi Project EMotion

Pearl Izumi Project EMotion: Chapter 1 from Genesis Inc. on Vimeo.

Pearl Izumi will be unveiling it Project E:Motion line this coming season. The new collection will offer minimal shoes that give runners a smooth ride and quick transition. Pearl be joining the minimal shoe movement with a line dedicated to smooth quick transition. Watch at Pearl Izumi designers discuss how they came up with the concept behind the E:Motion line.

Asics GEL- Kayano 19 Spring 2013

Asics will update the GEL-Kayano in Spring 2013 introducing the GEL-Kayano 19. Asics flagship high mileage trainer has gain significant following since its introduction in 1993. Look for the GEL-Kayano 19 next Spring for $150. GEL-Kayano iterations 1 and 18 can be seen below:

La Sportiva Anakonda - Spring 2013

Perfect for soft, muddy ground this mountain runner is brought to you by La Sportiva. The 2013 Anakonda uses a double mesh upper with added durability and protection in the heel and toe. This model is also designed to rapidly dry when encountering wet conditions. Also used in the upper is La Sportiva’s double grid thermo-adhesive “Skin-Grid”, which gives the upper structure only where it’s needed. A FriXion XF outsole provides maximum grip on wet surfaces. Weighing 9.5 ounces, the Anakonda will get trail runners lost for hours in Spring 2013.

New Balance Minimus 10v2 - Spring 2013

Updating its successful Minimus running collection, the New Balance Minimus 10v2 will be hitting stores in 2013. Minimus 10v2 offers a 4mm drop and is designed for road runners looking for a balance between ground feel and protection. Changes from the original Minimus include a redesigned upper, new Vibram Road Lite outsole, New Balance’s RevLite cushioning foam and increased flexibility. Much like the Minimus Zero, the 10v2 will feature a mono-tongue construction that securely wraps athlete’s instep. This finely tuned revamp has also been lowered by 2mm, bring road runners closer to the ground. The Minimus 10v2 will launch in March 2013 for $109.95.  

Merrell Vapor Glove Barefoot Running Shoe

Available in February 2013, Merrell will be pushing the limits with their super minimal Vapor Glove. With a zero heel-to-toe drop and a mere 6mm of underfoot foot, barefoot runners will maximize their ground feel. As seen in the image above, the model is one of the most flexible barefoot shoes for 2013. Like the entire Merrell Barefoot line, the Vapor Glove has a full Vibram rubber outsole and a durable mesh upper. This barefoot runner retails for $80 and offers a wide range of colors in Men’s and Women’s. See one users thoughts on the fit and feel at Frunning. 

Evan Jagar American Record: 8:06:81

Following his recent victory at the U.S. Olympic Trails, Evan Jagar is shooting to the top of the Track and Field Community. Friday’s Diamond League Meet in Monte Carlo, Monaco brought an extraordinary performance from the young Steeplechaser. Walking off the track last night, Evan had broken the American Record by 2.1 seconds in he’s fifth steeplechase all time. Look for Evan’s next race on August 3^rd at the London Olympics.  

La Sportiva - Quantum 2.0 Spring 2013

La Sportiva will release the Quantum 2.0 in Spring 2013. This mountain runner offers the same rippled rubber sole found in the original Quantum. The new model offers a Vibram outsole below its airy PU midsole. Trail runners will find the Quantum 2.0 has an improved ergonomic fit system across the instep and weighs 16.2 ounces. Making the Quantym 2.0 almost 10 ounces lighter than its predecessor.Look for the Quantym 2.0 from La Sportiva in 2013.

Inov-8 Trailroc 150

Inov-8 will be expanding its Trailroc series in Spring 2013 with the addition of the Trailroc 150(see the Trialroc 235, 245 and 255 at iRunFar). The new Trailrock 150 is much lighter weight at 5.3 oz and extremely minimal. A zero-drop differential will give users a barefoot running experience with maximum traction. Inov-8 uses its Tri-C outsole, using three different rubber compounds throughout the outsole. In areas that typically experience the most wear, larger cleats and enhance rubber is used. The outer section of the outsole provides hard rubber that gives stability; while a third soft and sticky rubber can be found near the toe and inner arch. Anatomical fit and Met-Cradle lacing system is used in the upper giving runners a secure glove like fit. Video: See Max Delacy of BarefootincNZ thoughts on the Trairoc 150.

The North Face - Ultra Guide

  

The North Face continues to push its way into the trail running market. 2012 brought trail runners the light and flexible Single Track runner. The year 2013 will bring a new addition to the TNF footwear family with the Ultra Guide. Weighing 9.6 oz. this off-road shoe has an 8mm heel-to-toe drop. The midsole contains a TPU rock plate in the forefoot and an aggressive, multidirectional lugged outsole. Ultra Guide’s upper provides a scree collar on the tongue, close-weaved mesh and enhanced toe protection. Retails for $110 and more info can be found at RunningWarehouse.  

U.K. Brand: Anatom Footwear Minimalist Running Shoe

U.K. hiking company Anatom Footwear will be joining the ever expanding minimalist running shoe market. Anatom’s 2013 minimalist running shoe will be a transitional shoe for “barefoot” runners, offering a 5mm heel-to-toe drop (9mm/4mm). Like most minimal products, runners will find a snug fit in the heel and a roomy toe box. The unnamed style has a removable footbed and EVA for some underfoot cushion. Mesh gives plenty of breathability throughout the upper, while the outsole is a high grade grippy rubber. What are your thoughts on Anatom's running shoe?

Salomon XT Wings 3

Just last month Salomon released the latest update to their XT Wings series. Salomon’s XT Wings 3 has three key updates that will significantly benefit trail runners. The new design of Salomon’s Contragrip outsole gives the XT Wings 3 enhanced traction on wet surfaces and increased durability. Salomon’s design team improved the geometry of the ACS chassis throughout the midsole. The ACS chassis still provides the stability benefits but offers more flexibility during transition. The upper of the XT Wings 3 is also less bulky and nearly seamless. Salomon uses a welted upper design, reducing weight while adding in protection with a rubber toe cap. Jeff from Salomon discusses the XT Wing 3 with RunningShoes. Below are spec differences between the XT Wings 2 and XT Wings 3:

	Salomon XT Wing 2	Salomon XT Wing 3
Weight	11.5 oz.	13.9 oz.
Heel-to-Toe Offset	10.5 (22.5/12mm)	10.5(22.5/12mm)
Midsole	Triple Density EVA	Triple Density EVA
Retail		$140

 Here’s an early review: http://www.photographyontherun.com/SalomonXTWings3TrailRunningShoeFirstImpressions.aspx

Montrail FluidFlex

Montrail’s Fluidflex ($90) will be release in January 2013 according to Running Warehouse. This flexible, yet beefy trail runner offers a FluidFoam midsole with a minimal 4mm offset. The full-length compression-molded foam (11mm forefoot and 15mm heel) is engineered with flex grooves for natural motion. The upper looks very clean with minimal overlays. The Fluidflex is part of Montrail’s new Fluid line which also includes the FluidFeel (a hypbird shoe focused on road duty) and the FluidBalance (a stability road/trail shoe).