Brooks T7

Started running in this shoe originally for track workouts and road 5ks. Then read Born to Run and decided it was time to make the switch to minimalist running and transitioned to the racer over the course of about 6 months til I was using it full time. Took a lot of aches and pains along the way but I feel like I'm a better runner for it, dropping nearly a minute off my collegiate 8k time. Love the shoe and will continue to run in it as long as I can as well as future models of the T series.

Consistent with the line, the odd-numbered versions (in this case the 7) take a step back from the previous, even ones. Toe box is a little more roomy than past versions, though the stiff portion of the upper extends too far forward on the lateral side, cutting into the top of the foot/toe. Midsole/outsole remains pretty much the same as previous versions, which is a good thing (though, again, placement of an extra patch of the more rugged rubber material under the balls of the feet would improve the shoe).

Great shoe; lightweight and fast, I can wear this from 5ks to marathons.

Only downside - they wear out really fast - worst 200 miles - best 400 miles

I've been running in the T since the T4. The changes have been largely to the upper configuration. The T4/6 were great - comfortable and properly constructed. The upper of the T5 allowed too much medial/lateral rolling, while inhibiting dorsal/plantar flexion. The offset laces of the T7 could be problematic, but cease to be distracting after a couple pair. The reshaped heel counter reduces irritation, but prevents a truly snug fit, allowing a very little (though noticeable) medial/lateral slippage.

This is my sixth pair of this shoe and it's not going away anytime soon. It is a racing flat but I use it primarily for running on the golf course, only on the track or roads for workouts. It fits extremely nicely, has a very strong heel cup, is very light, and doesn't have a huge heel drop.