Marathon Flat comparison:Hitogami, 1400v2, adios boost 2

I'm an elite half marathoner, working for New Balance and I've worn all three shoes before.

The Hitogami is a racing flat that saw the Musha and Ronin combine together. Mizuno uses a wave plate technology to help absorb energy and propel you forward. In comparison to the 1400 and adios boost, I found this shoe to provide the least amount of cushion and it fits loose in the forefoot. The drop (according to Runners World) is 9mm.

The 1400v2 is New Balance's premium marathon shoe. NB uses a RevLite technology to make the shoe as light as possible without sacrificing cushion. The upper will fit snug as it's performance based but it's extremely breathable, keeping you cool and dry from mile 1 to mile 26.2. The drop on this shoe is 8mm.

The Adios Boost 2 is an upgrade from version one. The fit has changed and the technology remains the same. Adidas uses a boost technology to give you maximum energy return and maximum cushioning. I found this shoe to feel soft due to their midsole material and the upper isn't as comfortable as the Hitogami or 1400v2. The drop is 9mm.

Overall, all three shoes are a great choice (I'm obligated to say NB is the best choice, but I won't be that guy). They all provide a similar amount of cushion but it comes down to the fit and what shoe will feel the most comfortable from beginning to end. All three shoes will last just as long, depending on your gait, it could be 400+km's.

Thank you for the thorough, unbiased reply.

I am not the OP but have myself been considering the boost or hitogami. Given the price difference (boost is way overpriced) sounds like the hitogami is the way to go.

That said, I recently spotted the boost (original) on sale for

I tried the Hitogami and did not like them.Had trouble with some hot spots, like my foot was skidding inside the shoe. The 1400V2 works for me. I like the close fitting upper.

I've owned the 1400v2 and the Adios Boost 2.

I'm actually spending a few minutes of my day to write this post because I flipping love them both.

The 1400v2 is my all-time favourite shoe. As another poster said, light but without compromising the cushion. It just feels beautiful to run on the forefoot with this shoe. The only bad thing about 1400v2 is that they don't last forever! The durability was average, but if you're buying for a specific event, this won't be an issue.

The Adios Boost 2 is great too. Similar fit to the 1400v2. Maybe a little bit more cushion which has a great energy return. The durability is a exceptional due to the high grade rubber and other materials. I got twice as many miles out of these than any other shoe I ever had.

You should own both!

I have the Hitogami and the Adios Boost 2 - I considered using one of the two for my marathon, but decided to go with the Boston Boost instead - both the Hitogami and the Adios Boost 2 were just a bit light for me for the marathon (I'm about 20 minutes slower than you).

I think that the Adios is overall more cushioned than the Hitogami, but most of that cushioning is in the heel. The Hitogami also has a slightly wider toe box than the Adios Boost 2. (interestingly, the original Adios Boost had a wider toe box than either). The Hitogami also has ever so slightly more cushioning in the forefoot.

I do find the Hitogami much more flexible than the Adios. But it may be that those heavier than I don't notice a difference - I'm about 30-35 pounds lighter than you.

I would definitely try both the Hitogami and Adios Boost 2 on your long runs, and see which one you prefer (I'm sure you'll do this anyway). If you decide you want a bit more shoe, the next step up from the Hitogami is the Sayonara; the next step from the Adios is the Boston.

BTW, I've found the listed weights for each shoe to be a bit deceptive - the Boston Boost is supposedly heavier than any of the other three, but rides VERY VERY light.

No insights on the 1400, since I don't wear New Balance (their last doesn't match my foot shape)

I work for adidas and unfortunately I am biased...

I would recommend adios Boost if you want to run quicker.

Why?

http://runblogger.com/2013/08/adidas-boost-some-actual-running.html

Aside from that it's extremely comfortable and the fit has been improved for adios boost 2.

I would also point out that boost is different. Give yourself time to get used to the feeling of the shoes and let your body adapt.

the 1400v2 is my favorite shoe of all time, also. perfect for tempo, track work, and races of 10k or longer.