Start with the ten superb road-running models we tested, and you'll be out of that store and on the run in no time. A plastic plate resembling a sine curve from the side is sandwiched into the midsole EVA, running from the back to the arch. Despite carrying a smidge of extra weight, the Wave Rider feels zippy because the tread combines solid rubber with carbon rubber, and the upper consists of airy, fishnet mesh. Underpronators and runners without many biomechanical shortcomings will be in heaven wearing this shoe, though some will find the toe-box a bit cramped. Pinch together a malleable stainless steel band built into the cuff at the Achilles tendon for a custom fit a truly innovative feature and enjoy the secure ride.
Air pockets front and rear provide ample cushioning, and the carbon-rubber tread ensures durability.
The stretchy upper starts to feel a little sloppy an hour into a run, meaning the Gauntlet isn't a marathoner, but it's perfect for middle-distance outings. Instead of gluing a rubber tread to a foam midsole, Reebok mixed the two materials together before pouring them into a mold. The result is a white-soled sprite of a sneaker. One drawback to its design is that the Renascent's sole tends to bend at the middle rather than the ball, which will quickly tire the arches of heel strikers and overpronators. Pure speedsters who run on their forefeet, however, will have found their shoe.