Who knew that trail running could feel like flying?
The Overview:
Newton Running has made a name for itself as the newest, coolest thing in running. Their running shoe designs are focused on recreating how we run. Rather, “re-doing,” if you will, how we run. It’s a throwback concept.
Without the interference of modern running sneakers, humans were naturally meant to run with our weight forward, propelling off the ball of the foot, rather than the heel, and with a lighter, quicker step. To address this natural motion, Newton Running shoes are designed with a minimal height difference between the toes and heel. Protective, responsive cushioning materials in the ball of the foot encourage lighter landing and a quicker cadence.
The Test
When I first laced up the Terra Momentus, they felt quite different from a traditional running shoe. The toe area almost felt like it was above the heel, which I can now account to my familiarity with a highly cushioned heel.
I tested these sneaks out on Lost Man trail, a technical, loose, rocky eight mile loop on Independence Pass, just outside of my home base of Aspen, Colo. Although these shoes are extremely lightweight, they are extremely supportive in variable, uneven terrain. The non-stretch upper webbing and closed mesh and support frame prevented lateral ankle rolling. The high-traction rubber sole allowed me to grip and quickly navigate rocky sections, while the reinforced toe-cap stopped any noticeable stubbing. My favorite feature was the ultra responsive cushioning in the ball of the foot area made me feel like I was lightly bouncing step to step.
The experience was highly enjoyable, which is saying a lot for someone who isn’t quite sold on running. I felt as if I could keep running for much longer since I wasn’t experiencing any of my typical knee or hip pain.
Cons
Mud, snow, rain and river crossings are an inevitable aspect of trail running, and as far as I could tell these sneaks aren’t waterproof, or even water resistent.. This is an issue for someone who runs on trails, especially in high alpine areas where snow comes early and Spring is a particularly sloppy affair.
Rating
4.75
Design: Top points in this category. These shoes are made to enhance your body’s natural movement. +1
Style: Neon is here to stay whether you like it or not, and I like it! +1
Durability: Despite being featherlike, these shoes can take stubs and scuffs without any damage to the shoe or your foot. +1
Performance: This innovative design improves your running efficiency, thus you can run longer, but they won’t keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Points docked here. -.25
Comfort: Your body gets what it’s asking for with these shoes, what can be comfier than that? +1
Note: Some people may have a problem shelling out $150 for a pair of running shoes, but these are well worth it. In fact, I personally believe insurance companies should subsidize this product; it decreases running injuries, it increases performance and efficiency, plus, it makes running fun in a day and age when obesity is our largest national health concern.