Getting new running shoes is always exciting, especially if you have an interest in the constantly-emerging shoe technologies available on the market. At the top of my most recent wish list was a pair of Newton Running shoes. Fortunately, they were kind enough to send us a pair to review. The shoes came in a cool mesh bag along with a free pair of socks and a DVD. Good first impression: check.
Here's the story behind this eco-friendly and innovative company based in Boulder, Colorado. Founded by a group of lifelong runners, Newton Running decided to develop a shoe specifically made to reinforce proper running technique - that is running with a forefoot/midfoot strike while maintaining a quick cadence and a slight forward lean. As the name implies, this company has embraced Isaac Newton's Third Law which states that every action has an equal reaction. After 15 years of research, Newton decided to put this Law to the test via its Active Membrane Technology. By placing three highly flexible red lugs, also known as actuators, on the midfoot region of the sole, the efficiency with which a runner can now move forward has been dramatically improved. Suffice it to say, Newton's Third Law still stands.
After several months of training and racing in my pair of Cushioned Racers, I dare say that I have found my running shoes for life! After converting over to a midfoot strike a few years back, I became increasingly frustrated by the lack of running shoes available that actually reinforce what industry experts and coaches alike proclaim to be correct running form. The door was wide open for Newton Running to meet this demand and they have delivered! The ride in these feather-light shoes is truly something to experience and I assure you that the action-reaction concept is no marketing ploy. Newtons require almost no break-in period, they're well-ventilated, and don't necessarily require one to wear socks. That should be good new for you triathletes out there.
Newton Running shoes come in a variety of bold and attractive colors, which is all the more reason to focus on running with proper form as admirers look on. For more information about Newton Running shoes, check out their very slick website at www.newtonrunning.com.
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sillycat
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... Over the course of the past year, I have had ongoing knee issues from running as a heel striker. I learned of Newtons a couple months ago, and I haven't had any issues since. Yes, I did have some calf pain in the beginning while I changed my running technique. I LOVE my Newton Lady Isac S. Just bought the trail guidance trainers; get them next week. I'm so excited. I reduced my first 5K run time by 4 minutes. Ran my 2nd 5K this morning, and dropped my run time by another 4 minutes. I give lots of credit to the shoes for helping my running form, and allowing my to run without pain. |
sara
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... i tried these on in the store and it was like foot nirvana!!!! i still have life in my running shoes now but newton will be my next and forever running shoes (unless someone makes a cheaper shoe that is as incredible, lol, 'wow' to the price). it's the shoe i've been waiting for as a forefoot striker who overpronates. if you 'run on your toes' naturally then these are the shoes for you!!!!! i can't wait to get a pair, hopefully on sale :-) |
Luana
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... Hey guys reviews are great! I just got some, loved them but noticed my mid/fore-foot goes numb as it's not used to the thicker tread on the bottom of the shoe...love how it changes my form as I very much needed it...but don't need the foot numbness and pain?? Anyone else have this issue? HELP |
TheEnginist
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... I don't like my Newtons. I think that the lugs make the shoes unstable. They make my feet and ankles hurt. Still using a forefoot strike, I went back to regular running shoes and the pain went away. |
jake freeman
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... this has been the greatest shoe i have ever used. ive ran marathons and ironmans in them they are really a work of science and i havent been more comfortable in any other shoe i will buy many many more to come in the future years.. only thing is price but its worth it i think for me |
George Vraniak
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... Up to about 5 weeks ago, I didn't know much about Newton's except for they "looked differently". I've experience IT Band problems for about 16 months now, fought through several physical therapy sessions, deep tissue massage, acupuncture...you name it. When I came out to Phoenix for ASTYM treatment, I went to Roadrunner Sports, tried on about 5 pairs of shoes and still felt the impact on the band...except for the Newtons I tried. I bought a pair, and 5 weeks later, the IT Band is feeling a lot better due to the combination of ASTYM and the Newton running shoes. I had to force myself to get away from heal striking and it has made a huge difference. The Newtons definitely force you to not strike on the heal and for that, I won't go back to another running shoe. Today was the first day in about a year that I've been able to do a 45 minute run...PAIN FREE! |
Alex
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... Great review, Thys! Are you still wearing Newtons? I got into them in June '08 and haven't run in another sneaker since (well, I've gone through five pairs of Newtons!) The only comment I can make for those interested in a running shoe that promotes forefoot running is that Newtons don't take long to break in (5-15 miles and they'll feel like the most comfortable thing you've ever put on your foot) but your calves will take a little while to "break in." Due to the nature of forefoot running, those converting from a heel-strike (ouch!) to the more efficient and injury-free style (ChiRunning, POSE, whatever...) will experience soreness in their calves from the forward lean until your body gets used to it. I suggest easing into Newtons, a few short runs a week for a couple of weeks. If you've got a long run scheduled, either put it off or run close to home so you can swap out of the Newtons for your old, poor form promoting sneakers. Whatever you do, don't put Newtons on and go run 26.2 your first time out. As with any equipment change, ease into it and you'll be rewarded. The price is worth it if you run faster, farther, and without injury. Plus, these tend to last a bit longer than the old 993 New Balance sneakers I ran in. Go Newton! |
Art Robidoux
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... Just purchased my first newtons, training version.I switch to Chi running method 2 years ago,need shoe to complament that style.Need shoe for first marathon.The reviews look good except the price.Hope they are as good as they say. |
Matt
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... Hi world,I just got these shoes and I love them. The only few things I didn't like is they are a bit over priced, also the they gave me blisters when I first got them. Did that happen to any one else? Any way these are great shoes and I can never go back to the normal shoe.IDK I guess I have to deal with the price from now on. Oh ya before I forget, I've been doing three a day work outs morning run, after noon abs/easy run, and end of day work out. Does any one think thats too much for the shoes? and can I wair them for cross training. |
sandi
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... I just got my first pair of Newtons as well...the Gravitas and I LOVE them. I switched to the POSE Method (forefoot strike) of running at the beginning of this year and have tried various shoes since then. The Newtons far excel anything else I've tried. Your review is spot-on! |
Tony Rosen
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... I bought a pair of Newtons about two months ago - and, have not looked back. This shoe is incredible. Since switching to Newtons, I have had ZERO leg issues/pain - and, I've taken 40 seconds off my pace/mile. |
Steve Lackey
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... Awesome! (nice review, Thys) Now all I need to do is learn to run properly and I can be as fast as you! |
