I'm looking for a new neutral trainer. I really like the flexibility, simplicity, and lightweight aspects of the NB 890 line but they are a little softer/thinner in the forefoot than I like and they wear out quickly (about 350-400 miles for me).
Anyone have good recommendations for a similar shoe that's more durable/responsive?
Folks running here really like the new Hoka Clifton lightweight shoe. If you want zero drop, get Altra Instinct 2.0 or the Paradigm for most cushion.
People love to flame me on this but I'll continue: your shoes are completely worn out at 400 miles, unless you weigh less than 120 lbs. Get new shoes. Most shoes lose half of their absorption capability after about 150 miles. No physiologist would recommend that you run in the same pair of shoes for more than 400 miles.
Try the Nike Elite, Zoom air unit in forefoot. Also, have you ever considered Newton? That is the way to go for forefoot cushioning. Look into the Gravity.
Other Choices: Adidas Energy Boost, Brooks Launch, Mizuno Sayonara or HItogami, Saucony Ride 7.
These all have a 8mm to 10mm drop similar to your 890's (Gravity has a 3mm drop)
Try the 980 Freshfoam. Just make sure you try it on first before buying it. I have a normal width foot, but I could not keep running in them because they became tight in my pinky and big toe. If your local store has a wide you should try it and compare it to the regular width. I had ~250 miles in them at that point and the mid-sole looked as if I had just pulled it out of the box brand new. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the advice. After reading up on it a bit I went with Saucony Mirage. Apparently the shoe is much more responsive in the forefoot. I'll give them a shot and see.