Nike LunarGlide+ Running Shoe Review
By: Christopher Najem (Budha9) Tags: nike, lunarglide, lunarglide+, nikeplus, nike+, shoes, review, running, feet
The new Nike LunarGlide+ running shoes are the definition of versatility. I was very pleasantly surprised with the feel and comfort of the shoe itself. The orange and black pattern design offers style without sacrifice as Nike has struck a winner with the new LunarGlide+.
The initial feedback has to be given to the shoes incredible versatility. I once thought it impossible to create a shoe that does everything. The LunarGlide is certainly the closest to this achievement. It is hard to believe a shoe can be designed for the underpronator, overpronator, high and low arched, and neutral arched runners in a single design. Nike assessed all different kinds of runners and created a shoe that adapts to anyone. This point cannot be overstressed because of the lack of knowledge in the “shoe fitting” area. We have all heard the claims that this shoe offers this and that shoe offers that. How many times have you been to the store and bought a shoe that just did not work out in the comfort department? Obviously, aches and pains lead to compensation in different joints, muscles, and tendons sometimes leading to serious injury; not to mention the extra energy expended. I personally overpronate with a high arch, and the LunarGlides adapted to my feet extremely quickly. After the first kilometer, I felt like I had put on hundreds already. I also felt the shoe was built perfectly for my feet. The amazing thing is it is built for any type of runner with any type of foot!
The cushioning is perfect for any surface. The Nike FlyWire technology provides superior cushioning without adding weight. The foam had a natural bounce to it thanks to the Nike Lunarlite foam, comparable to the New Balance Zip’s without the bulkiness. The cushioning was not on an Asiacs Gel type level either, which allows you to feel the surface and is much easier on the knees. I used three different terrains on three different runs to access the versatility of the shoe on different surfaces. I ran with them on a treadmill, through a nature path, and on the blacktop. The shoe provided my feet with the same feeling after each run.
The pavement run was overall the best surface for these shoes. The cushioning was there without overdoing it. I was able to run long despite extremely high temperatures. The quick dry system of the shoe should not be overlooked. If you wear the proper socks (Nike offers some good ones) along with the shoe, your feet stay comparably dry to most outdoor running shoes. This was one of the biggest pluses for me because lets face it; running in wet feet is a nightmare. I did not have to change my socks as I sometimes do.
The treadmill run was quick and smooth. I incorporated rolling hills into it so I could get a feel for its uphill capabilities. The shoe was great in high incline situations and my legs felt “lighter” than normal after climbing a hill. I even walked a little at the end of my treadmill run and the shoe adapted to that! The Lunarlite foam did not bounce, instead propelling me forward and allowing my arm swing motion to be more efficient.
I was hesitant to run a trail but decided it was necessary in the testing of the shoe. I did not want to get dirt on my brand new pair of kicks (thankfully, I went out in dry weather). The foam offered amazing comfort when hitting a small rock or pebble on the path allowing me to focus more on the scenery than having to have my head cocked down for the whole run. This is the main reason I do not like trail running, but the shoe does a decent job of adapting to mini hazards.
The aesthetics of the new lunarGlide appeal to all tastes as well. The specific shoe I tested was black and silhouetted with orange. The shoe is certainly an eye catcher, but does not provide overly noisy details. The Lunarglide looks and feels like a winner!
A quick mention of the heel cup is worth it. I wear low cut socks, and because of this the back of my heels are calloused to the point of having no feeling. I wish a heel cup as luxurious as this one came along a lot sooner. I still get to wear my low cut socks without having the chaffing problem I have had in the past with other shoes.
The shoe is designed to outlast its competitors. This is a major bonus for a high mile runner like myself. Sometimes I feel like I just got in a pair of shoes before i am tossing them because of wear and tear. It is not a professional opinion by any means, but I would say the shoe could withstand 200-300k more than most average running shoes.
A few minor drawbacks need mentioning. I jumped right into the shoe and started running. I recommend that you at least walk around for a day or two in the shoes before heavy use. The front of the inside is somewhat narrow. It creates a bit of pressing on the big toe (make sure you get the right size!). You have to be careful and not rely too much on the stability of the shoe because turning an ankle with these babies is certainly plausible. However, as with any running shoe getting to know how it moves is extremely important. The slot for the Nike sensor makes it easier to hide than on your shoelaces but it could be a bit tighter. Lastly, the shoe provides a snug fit. I have very skinny feet so this proved to be more of a plus than a minus; however, individuals with wider feet may take longer to break the LunarGlides in. I can certainly see how this shoe could create outside blisters on his/her feet if wider than most. Late in my trail run, it popped out from its holder while I was going downhill. Other than that, the shoe was awesome.
I can honestly recommend this shoe to all types of runners. I will certainly continue to use this shoe. It is very affordable, priced at $100. The bang for your buck is definitely there along with prolonged usage, which makes for a bargain at just one Ben Franklin! I was not disappointed!
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