Latest technologies are dropping in and running shoes are getting better than ever. With every other brand upping their game, it looks like running shoe pioneer Brooks is not one to be left behind. Brooks just released the Levitate which not only looks good, but also delivers superb performance as it promises to deliver maximum comfort while increasing running speed.
Latest Drop by Brooks
Brooks has always been a household name and has consistently been one of the best running shoe brands. Recently, they just upped their game by releasing the Levitate, which deals for $150. This latest running shoe is designed to be responsive and springy so that it might add an extra lift to your stride, which will make you run faster. The folks at Brooks also say that their latest design was built on seven long years of diligent research.
This might not be the kind of shoe that you would love at first run. The design looks too pretty for a running shoe so you would not hesitate to wear it while going around and not running. The knitted upper is also great since it hugs your foot without restricting it too much.
New Midsole Technology
One of the best features of the Brooks Levitate is its DNA Amp midsole. The DNA AMP is a new polyurethane-based cushioning system delivered by brooks in collaboration with BASF so that they can provide maximum energy return. This DNA AMP is what delivers a bouncy but stable run. This could also be why the shoes are a little bit heavier than most trainers as it weighs in at about 11.3oz
The base of this DNA AMP is a polyurethane foam that expands naturally. This returns energy as force is applied to it. This foam is encased in a thermoplastic polyurethane skin which resists horizontal expansion which transfers the energy back to the user.
Knitted Upper Conforms to Foot Better
The shoes feature an integrated fit knit upper which firmly puts the runner’s foot in place while the show moves and expands while being used. This shoe also has an arrow-shaped outsole which works perfectly with the upper DNA AMP midsole so that it could deliver precise movement accuracy. This circular knit design expands while running to snugly fit the foot and provide great levels of breathability.
Infinite Energy
This shoe was built based on the premise of having as much energy return as possible. Many might be skeptical at first especially that Nike has apparently gone head to head with the release of its Vapor Fly 4%. However, you have to note that the Levitate has been designed for the beginner runner while the Vapor Fly was for elite marathoners who run for hours.
While a lot of other shoes already incorporate the same TPU technology in the midsole, the Levitate promises to deliver the most energy return mile after mile. Energy return is actually more than just a marketing phrase as it can actually be measured. EVA foams return 5- to 60% while newer foams return 70%.
Is This New Shoe for You?
This shoe is not exactly designed for long distance runners. They would be great if all you need is a comfortable and good looking shoe which hugs your foot and feels soft on the heel which you can jog for every morning. If however, you are an elite marathoner, you might want something more than this. It is pretty heavy compared to other trainers too, and that might be extra baggage for you if you go for longer runs.
Some veterans runners also do not buy its energy return claims. However, this might be because these experts have already adjusted to running fully, or they might just be looking for something else.
With a lot of brands introducing something new, it really is getting harder to pick what the right shoe might be for you. For this latest drop by Brooks, it looks like it would be best for those who want a shoe that looks good, fits the foot snuggly and which you can comfortably wear during morning or evening runs. What do you think of this new shoe by brooks? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below
