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Now that we are well into 2024 I can say Asics has a great lineup of core shoes to be taken a look at. With many changes and updates on design and function Asics has four very solid models to choose from. Hint…there is a 5th model I will mention. Let's start with the shoe models focused on cushioning which would be the Gel-Cumulus 26 and the Gel-Nimbus 26. For this article I’ll be dropping the Gel part of the names as all the models have Gel.  Starting with the Cumulus 26 (see image) which is the more price friendly of the two neutral stability models at $140 has been very much updated for this year. I personally liked version 25, but this update really enhances the cushioning and it is very easy to notice as soon as you put it on. Asics usually fits well and the Cumulus 26 so far looks to fit very well with an accommodating upper which comes in a multitude of widths except for women’s narrow at least at the time of writing this. Note that the previous model did come in women’s narrow so I would imagine at some time so will this updated version. This is a soft and cushioned shoe and as a result of that it is less stable than the other models in the core lineup. If you think you may need more stability I recommend heading to your local running store to confirm and most likely look at one of the other models which offers more stability. If you do not need a shoe with more stability which you just really may not need then this looks to be a fantastic update and would highly recommend checking it out.  Next is the bigger sibling of the Cumulus, the Nimbus 26 (see image) . This is in no way just a more expensive version of the Cumulus 26, it is an entirely different shoe at $160. Other than both providing neutral stability these shoes fit, feel and ride very differently. The Nimbus 26 for me fits wider and with more volume, the cushioning is nothing short of being in your face. It is very cushioned with an average stack height of 37mm (women’s model) compared to the 33.5mm’s (women’s model) of the Cumulus 26 which is still pretty high. In my opinion the Nimbus 26 feels noticeably higher than the Cumulus 26 does and it is most likely because the Nimbus 26 has a much more pronounced drop or rocker at the toe box. So if you do not like shoes with a rocking forward feel I would stick with the Cumulus. Both models are much lighter than they look and feel surprisingly responsive for having such a cushioned ride. Although I do find the Nimbus 26 to be more stable than the Cumulus 26 it is still not a stability focused shoe. Just as I mentioned for the Cumulus 26 if you need more stability I first recommend heading to your local running shoe store to confirm you actually need more stability and trying a model that offers that. If you are looking for a highly cushioned shoe for walking and running I highly recommend taking a good look into the Asics Nimbus 26 as it offers very good cushioning with moderate level of neutral stability. When it comes to medial stability shoe models the core GT-2000 12 and the Kayano 30 are taking a different approach by leaving out a hard medial posted foam like previous versions have for the last 20+ years. This is to offer a more comfortable, lighter weight and smoother feel compared to the previous version. Honestly when Asics removed the big plastic pieces in their medial stability shoes I did really notice it and for the better. Although I do like the new design language on these newer versions I think it is an odd choice to change both top core models at the same time which might leave old customers wondering what to do. Does the new design provide a more smoother feel? I think that is still up for debate, but I can say they are more versatile for a bigger array of foot gait patterns and I think they do feel lighter weight and responsive than previous versions.  Starting with the GT-2000 version 12 (see image) I think is an overall good update. It fits well, comes in widths including women’s narrow. It is noticeably firmer than say the Cumulus which it should, but to control pronation it is much more stiff torsionally which is how the new design is meant to work. There is also some geometry sculpted into the shape of the foam on the outside heel to further the rate of pronation. By my observation it seems to work well enough and only time will say how the new design is accepted by runners, walkers and really by the medical podiatry professionals. I am personally neutral “pun intended” on the new design language. I think where the new design language has its challenge will be that when previous models had two different densities of foam this allowed one foam to be softer and the second foam to be firmer both being strategy placed where needed. So, now with one density of foam doing both jobs I can’t say this vision feels as soft as prior versions did. It is like it’s not as soft in the location where the old versions were softer and it’s not as firm where the previous versions were either. I hope that makes sense. I might have to make a video to more easily explain that. What I can say is that the new single density foam design is certainly smoother from heel to toe and lighter weight feeling. Overall I think the new GT-2000 v12 is stable, lightweight and fits well.  On to the last of the core models and it is the Kayano 30. Probably the biggest design change of all of them. No more does it have a traditional medial posting for pronation like the GT-2000 v12, both got rid of that. The Kayano 30 (see image) now sports a pretty wide footprint and a much higher feeling stack height than prior versions at 34mm average (women’s model) compared to the GT-2000 v12 at 31mm (women’s model). I think I recall the Kayano 29’s stack height was 30mm compared to the 34mm of this new version. I notice every bit of those additional 4mm’s of stack height as with the Kayano 30’s 10mm higher rear end. Yep, the Kayano continues its 10mm heel lift from prior versions. What makes it unique is that of these core 4 models it is the only model that retains the 10mm heel lift from its older previous versions. The GT-2000 as with the Nimbus and Cumulus all get the lower 8mm heel lift and have been for several updates now. Perhaps this is to please the podiatry and medical professionals who have in my experience typically preferred shoes with higher heel lifts to address common foot ailments like plantar fasciitis and torn achilles.  Even though I don’t notice much more cushioning from the GT-2000 v12 to the Kayano 30 I do notice the Kayano 30 to be much more solid, stable and wider fitting, although not much wider. It is noticeably more shoe and in my opinion it is because of the wider footprint (see image) higher heel lift. Either way I personally have the new Kayano 30 and really like the solidness, yet lightweight nature it. I do prefer it for walking more than for running as it is pretty stiff. So, if a stiff, stable and solid shoe with ample cushioning is your jam I highly recommend checking out the new Kayano 30.  All in all I think Asics has a great line up here of four solid models to choose from with cushy to stabile models you should be well covered here. Not any reason to mention any other models. Yep, these cover all the bases. And, although that is true there is one other model that tends to get overlooked. What could this possibly be you ask. If you were thinking of the GT-1000 v12 (see image) you would be incorrect. That model although seems to have the older design language I am not convinced it has it nor has the same feel or ride. No, the model I am referring to is the GT-4000. Yep, the Kayano and GT-2000’s middle sibling. What makes this model different is two things really. For one it is less expensive than even the GT-2000’s $140 price tag and second it’s got an actual dual density foam “medial posting” design to control pronation from years past on both older versions of the GT-2000 and Kayano. Now I am not saying it’s better or worse, but if you 're hoping for something more similar to your older version of those models this GT-4000 may and I mean may hit the mark for you.  Please note I personally only recommend this model if you have had prior Asics in the past and really want to stick with that older design language otherwise I would lean towards the GT-2000 v12 and Kayano 30 as they are great shoes and most likely offer the design language Asics will continue with in the future. In other words I expect the GT-4000 (see image) to follow the other models design language at some point. The GT-4000 although it has been around for some time it has always been the model that we never really know if it is going bye bye. Not to mention the new non-medial posted design has been adopted by many brands now and looks to be the way of the future, so as they say in running “don’t get left behind”. Either way if you have been wearing the older Asics for awhile and have tried the newer design and want to hold onto that older Asics shoe feel and design language you might want to give the GT-4000 a solid try.  JR from Runnergy (see image) Thanks for reading this overview of the core models from Asics. This does not include performance, speed, or trail shoes. As I always say KEEP ON MOVIN!
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 Gaviota 5 is kinda a big deal because not only is it a great update, but it’s a totally different type of shoe. In one key way that is. Let me explain. The Gaviota falls into a category called “Motion Control” which is a subdivision of a main category I refer to as a “Medial Stability” shoe. This is when a running/walking shoe has more stability on the medial side of the shoe to control excessive pronation, aka rolling inward. A “Motion Control” version of a “Medial Stability” shoe does this to the max and this is what is so crazy about the new Gaviota 5. It is still a “Motion Control”, but it’s no longer in the “Medial Stability” category. That’s right it’s in what I refer to as a “Neutral Control” category. So, does it still control excessive pronation? You betcha! Not only does it control pronation it controls all kinds of motion. Imagine a “H” shaped plastic frame inside this shoe that reduces excessive twisting caused by an unstable foot and ankle. The new Gaviota 5 has this “H” shaped frame in it and it’s awesome. In fact compared to the older design which used two different densities of foam to control motion this does it better because the older design only works for excessive pronation, aka rolling inward. It doesn't do well for rolling outward, aka supination. This is important as many, including myself, do both. One of my feet rolls inward and the other rolls outward. Also, the older design almost always over-corrects the pronation as the shoes age, functionally making the person who is wearing them supinate which can lead to injury.  Wide platform + H-Frame = enhanced stability  Anyway, the very new Hoka Gaviota 5 is an awesome new “Motion Control” with better than average cushioning. It’s not as cushy as Hoka’s neutral shoe models like the Bondi or Clifton, but they also don’t offer the same level of stability. I also really like the fit of the Gaviota 5. The toe box is a bit rounder in shape allowing the toes to spread out. I am so happy to report zero arch issues. Thank goodness! So far no uncomfortable arch to report here. Thank you Hoka!!! The Gaviota 5 retains its 5mm drop thickness difference from heel to toe and its extra wide platform which most Hoka’s have and contribute to their stability.  To sum it up, if you need a really stable shoe with great cushioning in a fairly lightweight package you should for sure have the new Gaviota 5 on your list to check out. Again this is if you really need, not want a ton of stability otherwise there are many less bulky options out there in the world of shoes. If you're not sure, head to your local running/walking shoe store to find out what kind of stability your feet might need.
 If you haven’t noticed cushioning is big in today’s running shoes, really big. This is thanks to the rise of the brand Hoka. Many may have thought this rebound reaction from the minimal and barefoot shoes of years ago which are still around by the way was just another shoe fad. Well, this doesn’t seem to be the case with more and more brands including Asics jumping onto the cushion band wagon. The all new Asics Nimbus 25 is another example of big brands adding highly cushioned models to their line up. To make such a legacy model like the Nimbus is quite the risk with such a long history of users. Yes, the Nimbus has always been a cushioned focus model, but this latest model has a lot more cushioning by its much higher stack height. And that’s kinda the story here with this update.
So, who is the Nimbus 25 for? I think the better question is “who is it not for?”. I would say this may not be the best option for someone who heavily heel strikes with an unstable foot and ankle. Although adding an insole like a Cur-Ex or Superfeet can greatly improve the arch support. Previous owners of the Nimbus line need to know that his version has been fitting a half size bigger and noticeably wider. This is one of those updates I have to highly recommend going to a specialty running shop to get fitted at to ensure it fits well and that it offers enough stability for your needs. Most who *over-pronote from heel to toe might require or be better off with a more stable shoe. What’s great about the Nimbus 25? I think this shoe is all about cushioning. I think Asics wanted to show the running industry that they too can make an amazingly cushioned shoe as well. And I think they did just that. The cushioning reminds me of the Hoka Clifton 5’s & 6’s and honestly the new current version 9’s. It’s really plush! The Nimbus 25 also has a widened platform/ footprint which is fantastic, again similar to the Hoka Clifton. This helps add some much needed stability and also offers a nice place for an insole to sit atop. Let’s talk about the upper and the fit. It is noticeably wider than previous models. It still has that funny, but comfy stretchy tongue which never moves around on my pair. My only found issue is that the upper at the base of the laces can get a bit blousy and wrinkly. Not a big deal if you don’t feel it, but I have had some customers feel it as it can crease in due to the extra volume in the toe box area. Just something to be aware of. As with the odd tongue it has an equally odd collar around the ankle, both might be different compared to other shoes, but I have found both of the tongue and the ankle collar very comfortable. Same with 98% of my customers. Other notable things with the Asics Nimbus 25 is just how lightweight it is and responsive it is. Did I mention how amazing the cushioning is? Well, it is really noticeable for walking and this is by far one of my favorite shoes for long distance walking. Aside from preferring an extra insole the Nimbus 25 offers a fun combo of lightweight, responsiveness and just enough stability for walking and running being that you don't heavily heel strike and *over-pronate. *Over-pronation = A foot strike from outside of the heel followed by excessive inward movement towards the inside or arch/big toe side of the foot resulting in excessive torquing of the foot/ankle. This is best observed by a shoe fitting expert like those found at a running specialty shop or medically trained professional.  Okay, so if you’re wondering what the heck Craft running shoes are, you are probably not alone. Although I have known of the brand for many years I was recently surprised to see Craft release actual running shoes and even more surprised that they were of promising design and function. There are basically two models of the CTM Ultra. You have the carbon plated version and the other version without the carbon plate. Pretty simple, right? Otherwise they both share basically the same design, fit and feel. Although the “feel” isn’t exactly the same for both. Let me explain. Craft has released the road shoe models called CTM Ultra which come in two flavors. A version with a custom designed carbon plate and a CTM Ultra “2” that is a less pricey option without it. Both are built on the same fit geometry which fit surprisingly well. Both are very energetic to run in, yet the carbon version has a noticeably more aggressive feeling of rolling forward. This is great for walkers as well or if you simply want your feet to turn over more quickly. I would say the carbon version is the fastest “feeling” shoe I have tried to date. Both versions of the CTM Ultra have great cushioning. For me the carbon felt more responsive, but the non carbon CTM Ultra 2 felt more cushioned. Not sure why perhaps not having the carbon plate or possibly it just has softer foam. Speaking of the foam, these Craft shoes use in house Craft custom designed UD Foam Pro foam that provides a midsole with fantastic cushioning feel, energetic ride and durability that is…well, I have no idea as I haven’t had a pair long enough to give an honest opinion on it. Honestly, these models are both too new for probably anyone to tell you how the durability is, but my impression is that the foam is not low grade foam. Not at all, on the contrary the foam feels extremely high end. In fact the whole shoe has a very premium feel in hand and on the foot. One thing I can tell you is that the midsole is providing a very lightweight shoe. All the CTM Ultra’s that I see are well below 9 oz’s at what I believe is a men’s size 9. That’s very lightweight for a well cushioned training shoe.  Let’s talk about a very important POINT. The point of contact, that is. Let’s talk about the outsole that provides the grip you need for running and walking. And, these shoes do not disappoint unless you're on certain trails. The CTM Ultra’s have an outsole which provides great grip for most runs or walks from road surfaces, treadmill and even some trails. I say some trails because they don’t have the deepest lugs. So, if you are in my area of SoCal or somewhere which has desert dry dirt trails and not muddy, sloppy and slippery trails you should be just fine. I would be on the fence for the ladder though. Good thing Craft has other more trail focused running shoes available. I’ll be reviewing those in the future. Okay, so we got carbon plates, we got an awesome responsive cushioned midsole and grip hungry outsole. How is the upper? How does the CTM Ultra 2 & Carbon fit? Well, it fits well. At first glance I’ll admit I did not think they were gonna fit well at all. The upper is super thin to the point you can see through it. Yet, it doesn’t feel cheap, as mentioned nothing about this shoe does. The upper has a high instep cut to it, but somehow and meaning seriously somehow it manages to fit well across the top of the foot. In fact the upper in most cases fit surprisingly well holding the foot in place as if there was some kind of voodoo magic going on. I can't tell you how many people I had tried on the Craft CTM Ultra’s that truly did not think they would fit well (including myself) only to be completely in shock by how well they fit. Now some didn’t like the fit and yes there were some that the upper was flat out too wide or deep for their feet, but that has been the lesser of my experience.  “For the walkers” I think by now you can tell I really like the Craft CTM Ultra’s for running. But, how are they for walking? As someone who walks and runs I think walkers will notice the above average cushioning and the lightweight experience that these models offer. Some walkers will also really appreciate the rocker that the carbon plate offers. What I am not so sure of and is my least favorite design choice of the CTM’s which is the typical high heel height difference from the forefoot. This is probably my only real disappointment with them. They have a 10mm offset heel to toe. Now I will say Craft spent an insane amount of R & D (research & development) on the design of these shoes so I am sure they have their reasons for this, but it still pains me that it is so high. 6-8mm’s would have been okay with me, but 10mm’s is out of the ballpark for myself. Keep in mind 10mm’s is the industry standard so you are most likely wearing shoes that already have this design and it totally doesn’t mean you should avoid them if you're walking, but just good information to know. And to be honest I actually did not even notice the heel height at first. I was taken by surprise when I was told they are 10mm’s. Again, Craft has done some kind of voodoo magic with the design of these CTM’s. It’s actually kinda creepy. So, for walking I would say give them a solid try, especially the carbon version as the roll over at the ball of foot is exceptional for walking. If you need more cushioning than the rocker design of the carbon version then the non-carbon may be more your jam. Either way I think the CTM’s are a solid go for walkers who don’t need above average support and stability. This goes for you runners out there too. Make sure they provide adequate support and stability for yah. These are for the most part neutral support shoes and not in my opinion for someone with more than moderately unstable feet and ankles. “Conclusion” Let’s wrap this review up. The Craft CTM Ultra’s are without a doubt a nice surprise from this fairly unknown brand in the running shoe market. From the fun, super cushioned CTM Ultra 2 to the more stiff competitive CTM Ultra “CARBON” verison Craft has engineered a refreshing new take on premium running shoe design. Like I said, voodoo magic. I would say if you get the chance to try them on, do it! They fit well and run fast. Runner’s I think will enjoy their responsive feel and walkers will appreciate the cushioned midsole and everyone will love the lightweight feel. As always. Run well, live well…..and walk well too! Published by Jeff Robins, aka JR. This review is solely written for www.runnergy.com and unauthorized use is prohibited. The thoughts and opinions are of Jeff Robins and do not reflect or guarantee your experience will be the same. Jeff Robins was not paid or provided any compensation in exchange for this review nor has anyone approved this review prior to its release.
Jeff Robins is an employee of Fleet Feet in Agoura and is happy to provide any assistance or answers to questions on this or any other running/walking shoe. If you are in or near the Agoura, Ca area and need shoe fitting I am happy to assist you. For further information regarding training, gear and shoes please check out the www.runnergy.com website. Thanks for reading.  Today’s footwear pick is the Karhu Ikoni HIVO 2021, a surprisingly lightweight trainer. With it’s shortened Fulcrum + Propulsion unit is designed to encourage a quicker turn over and a weight of just 9.6 oz in men’s size 9 & 8 oz in women’s size 8 the Karhu Ikoni HIVO 2021
should be a nice responsive shoe for daily runs. I want to mention there is the non HIVO version which offers a more standard fit compared to the HIVO version which is wider. Let’s talk fit. The forefoot has been specifically designed to fit on the wider side and with the absence of any annoying stitching the Karhu Ikoni HIVO 2021 should accommodate wider feet with ease, especially those feet with higher insteps aka, “the bridge across the top of the foot”. From my experience Karhi’s heels have fit very well and are snug and I don't see any reason why these would be any different. What do I like? I’ll start with that 8mm drop from ball of foot to heel which is the most I think any shoes should really have. Many running shoes have a rather high 10 to 12 mm’s. Really nice to see a slightly lower heel to toe drop here. Although I would like to see it go 6mm in the future as I think that would compliment the “Fulcrum + Propulsion” unit better. The toebox with zero stitching and wider foot is great to see from this brand. For the amount of cushioning and rubber here 9.6 oz (8oz women’s) is not bad and that Karhu “Fulcrum + Propulsion” unit is very helpful at providing a platform designed to encourage a quicker turnover is all good stuff. Quick point, In the Wide fit option titled “HIVO” there is the black/white color and one other unlike the standard width that comes in a few more colorways. Also, the naming is a bit confusing with the wide being called HIVO, yet on the Fleet Feet website it is called “D” width and no mention of HIVO. What could be better? To be honest not much. I personally would like to see the heel drop go to a lower 6mm drop and possibly sizing down to a men’s size 7, but that’s not limited to just this model. Other than that the Karhu Ikoni HIVO 2021 is a really nice lightweight trainer with good cushioning and stability with a relatively fast responsiveness ride. Lastly, a more straightforward naming system, just leave it as a “D” width. Lastly, my final score. At a msrp $140 I think with all its features it is priced well and competes with similar shoes in its respective category. Based on my findings the cushioning is moderate lending itself to a more responsive and stable ride. The leading feature is clearly the “Fulcrum + Propulsion” unit which I find is usually a love it or hate it. I like anything that helps improve turnover speed. And so I give the Karhu Ikoni HIVO 2021 a score of 7 out of 10. Available at your local Fleet Feet running shoe shop. Available online here Men’s https://us.karhu.com/.../mens-ikoni-ortix-hivo-jet-black..., Women’s https://us.karhu.com/.../womens-ikoni-ortix-hivo-jet... Click below to watch the debut of the all new Coros watch and biggest software update to date! We’re introducing you to new best in class hardware and training features Tuesday, August 25th at 1pm EDT, 10am PDT, 7pm CET  Join COROS employees and athletes live on our YouTube channel on August 25th, at 10am PDT for the unveiling of a HUGE new software update and hardware launch. Members of the team, COROS Pro Athletes and an industry partner will train you on the exciting new features and answer your COROS tech questions. It's an event you're not going to want to miss!
Howdy y'all. This is Jeff from Runnergy.com and I have been fitting people from doctor referrals to ultra marathons and triathletes for over 25 years. And normally I would suggest for you to run to your local running store to get professionally fitted, but as you know at this time that is most likely not doable. So I am going to try as quickly as possible some tips to purchasing walk/run shoes online as that may be your only option. Grab some water or sports drinks and let's get running here. Buy from a known online source that you can trust. Make sure you know the name or ask a fellow runner for a store referral near you. You can also contact me at [email protected] if you need assistance.
Hope that helps. You can reach me at [email protected] or write me in the comments.Be safe and stay healthy. Thank you!
Check out my youtube and website. Runnergy.com for more running tips! Well, I hope you all have enjoyed my online shoe shopping tips during this unusual time of COVID-19 Coronavirus making it impossible(for some runners) to shop at your local run/walk shoe shop. Now for online shoe shopping that should be fulfilled by your local Fleet Feet store you can clock here www.fleetfeet.com Now if your heel slips in the back of the shoe here is a lacing trick that may help lacing lock/loop to help heel slipping is here runners-loop-lacing.html Thanks for watching and be safe and healthy. Well, I gotta get running! Jeff R Runnergy.COM  As you know there is an abundance of insoles on the market making it impossible to decide on which one to get. Most have either great support and others have great cushioning, but pretty none of them have both. Or at least I haven’t seen one that does. Except for Cadence that is. Cadence insoles have a very solid yet flexible arch support and an excellent well cushioned PU layer on top for cushioning as well as a heel pocket to help take pressure off the heel area. Cadence insoles are only available at independent retailers and select medical doctors mainly podiatrist. And...apparently Amazon.
Also, the cushioning material being PU or polyurethane they are more durable than most if not all other support insoles, in fact the material reminds me of Sorbothane insoles which have fantastic cushioning, but not the support. So if you're looking for an insole with the best in my opinion cushioning and support you gotta try Cadence insoles.
Available at local running retailers, select podiatrist, Amazon and Cadence Insoles  Back in the early 80’s opened a landmark running store in Encino, Ca named Phidippides. This was when running was just starting to get recognition as a growing hobby for health and competitive people alike. Not knowing that by the mid 90’s running shoes would become a very big and competitive business. Phidippides which was owned by Ava, Charlie and Craig were known for their running and product expertise as well as for their amazing running abilities running up to 100+ miles consecutively also known as a century run. I had the pleasure of working at Phidippides for 8 years before opening my own store named Runnergy. If not 30 years it was pretty darn close Ava and Charlie made the move to sell the store to Fleet Feet, a very successful chain of well regarded running stores. Craig had sadly passed away in 2007. I mostly know Fleet Feet as a chain of franchises, but this was to a corporate store. At least until recently that is as it has now been taken over by Colin who has a franchise location in Burbank, Ca. and has been fitting customers for several years now. I recently visited the new Fleet Feet Encino and I must say Colin has done some fantastic remodeling to it and it looks great. I was also extremely happy to see that most of the employees were there, especially John who I had the pleasure to work with back when it was Phidipiddes. Jake, Darcy, Julie and manager Andrew were all at hand there as well. Very cool. Now with Encino tide in with Burbank inventories will link together.  I am thrilled that there will remain a running store in this location as it has had for 40 years now. I appreciate and thank Colin for saving this very important (in my opinion) running community in the Encino area. As of now the store is open and ready to fit incoming customers, but if you're not up to in person fitting you can still support this and other Fleet Feet locations by purchasing online at www.fleetfeet.com. Purchases online come from the closest location that currently has the product your buying. So, let's keep the local running stores running.
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