Nike Free Run+

Nike Free Run+ Shoes - Forefoot Strike Running Shoes

My Nike Free Run Shoes :)

Bear in mind that this nike free run+ shoes review is written by amateur runner not from your running star. Thus, expect a down to earth story from a person about his new running shoes and his run not of technical analysis. I bought this Nike Free Run + shoes in September 2010 for RM359, quite expensive but its all worth it.

To slip in foot in this shoes not as easy as your ordinary shoes because of no tongue /lid design to ensure proper fit. Inner sleeve design is for a snug barefoot like fit, one-piece, patterned overlay for support and flexibility that what this Nike Free Run+ shoes is for, "Barefoot Running Feel!!. with or without socks. Extensive, breathable mesh on the upper enhances the barefoot-like fit and feel.


Nike Free Run+ is so flexible

First time to have my feet in this shoes, what I notice most is its rolling effect is so real. Nike Free Run+ running shoes is like urging you to move.. or simply Run. Secondly it feel so flexible, may be because of deep cut into the outer sole known as "sipes". This enable greater flexibility and movement of the foot than a traditional running shoes design. Nike Free Run+ running shoes offer the same range of motion as barefoot running, but with added protection. Thirdly it feel so comfortable. Your feet would simply feel pampered in this shoes, so minimal restriction and so comfortable.. 

The "Fit" design may not be suitable for wide feet like me. Do not simply wear this Nike Free Run+ shoes straight from Nike Store into your running competition. My small toes suffer with blister on my first training run and end up with both side in 65+ km run in 12hour rogaining competition. But I believe you need to give it a few warm up run then it will naturally stretch into your feet shape.  Fabric material around ankle may look too soft but it wrap tight, hold and fit nicely, and give excellent support thus give you sense of stability.

I would category this Nike Free Run+ shoes as "flat racing shoes" just like Adidas Adizero Mana and Adizero Ace. Racing? because it is so light - lightness is for racing isn't?. Flat? because the sole design is flat, you may see that it have a slight higher heel but the insole design have curve with higher arch support but almost same level of heel and forefoot and with help of good flexibility which I believe that give "the rolling effect". The insole height drop from heel to forefoot is kept at minimun mm. This Nike Free Run+ flat running shoes is for forefoot strike runner. For each step you will not feel the heel touching the road which will not interfere with your forefoot strike rythm. If you are believer of forefoot strike / barefoot runner (because by running barefoot you naturally strike with your forefoot not with your heel)  or just start to practice this running technique then this Nike Free Run+ running shoes is for you.

Nike Free Run+ cushion may look so slim but I do feel the cushioning effect. The cushioning should be good enough for a half marathon for average person and may be enough for a marathon but my forefoot aching and sore after 65+ km and 12hour in this shoes. I think the need for cushioning is vary for different person, I may need additional cushion at forefoot area but there are others who complete Marathon barefoot.

Indeed this Nike Free Run+ shoes look so good too and so comfortable, I end up wear this shoes more to shopping complex than to my weekly run :).

Nike Free Run+ Men's Running Shoe was created for those who love the feel of barefoot running, yet need the cushioning, traction and underfoot protection of a shoe.

Nike Free Run series of 3.0, 5.0, and 7.0 have variation of  improved fit, cushioning and support.

Details of this Nike Free Run Plus Shoes from http://nikerunning.nike.com/
Flex grooves for flexibility and stability
Weight: 238 grams (men’s size 10)

Flexibility
Deep Nike Free flex grooves along the length and width of the midsole (which doubles as an outsole) allow your foot to more naturally while adding stability. The Nike Free Run + is even more flexible and “Free-like” than the Nike Free 5.0.

Cushioning
The Nike Free Run+ is more cushioned and supportive than the Nike Free 3.0. A new heel design enhances cushioning when your foot first hits the ground, without compromising flexibility.

Additional Details
Rubber in key wear zones for traction and durability
Waffle pistons in the outsole for shock absorption and responsiveness
Nike+ ready

Nike has introduce new replacement for Nike Free Run+ = Nike Free Run+ 2! Check it Out Here!


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