Nike has been in the headlines for their focus on the Zoom Vaporfly range and the effects they are proving to have on race times (not to mention that 2:25 marathon dash by Eliud Kipchoge). Running shoes are becoming more and more technical, and the cost is increasing to match the specs. Enter Nike React running shoe. Billed as a more ‘democratic’ shoe, the React is being pitched as a reliable running shoe for so-called everyday runners.
What’s the difference between the Zoom range and the Nike React running shoe, then? The stable of Zoom racers are designed for propulsion, and wearers reliably report feeling faster and lighter while wearing them. They are designed for elite marathon runners – racers looking for speed and reduced energy cost over long distances. That’s a very specific design brief. The React steps in to fill the gap for everyone else. The key selling point of the React shoe is that it has an entirely new synthetic rubber foam base that’s billed as being longer-wearing that the more commonly used EVA material. EVA is used because it gives support without being too soft, although there’s arguments that it has an unreasonably short lifespan.
For the Nike React running shoe to gain traction with the mass market, it needed to have materials that are going to literally go the distance. Blind tests are showing that runners can’t feel any difference between a new pair and a set of soles that’s already covered 300 miles. That’s a good sign for those who like to head out for a run regularly for the fun of it, rather than training for a competitive race time. These may be the casual parkrunner’s dream.
The Nike React running shoe is being marketed at £130-£150, which is comparable to other running shoes on the market. A slightly cheaper alternative is priced at £100-£120, but uses the same synthetic rubber, so the difference may largely be aesthetic.
It certainly sounds like the React wants to become a running shoe with mass appeal. Early reports are indicating that the shoes are popular – now it’s time to see how they truly hold out over time and miles.
About Enertor Advanced Technology Insoles – Enertor insoles are designed to prevent a number of common running injuries and provide more comfort. Designed by leading podiatrists to reduce your risk of injury, the unique design features support your foot throughout training. Enertor insoles are enhanced by D3O impact protection technology, which means they can provide more shock absorption than any other insole. Our expertise, combined with the patented D3O shock absorption technology, enables Enertor to deliver the most advanced injury prevention insoles on the market today.
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