I am a casual runner in my early 30's training for my first half-marathon.  I have previously run primarily in Nike Pegasus, Asics Nimbus, and New Balance Fresh Foam 980, which are neutral cushioned shoes. But this shoe by Pearl Izumi has made me a life-time buyer.  The shoes does a fantastic job in the upper - it fits like a sock, no rubs, no blisters.  Although not as plush in the cushioning, the EM design is lightweight, allows for good feel of the road, and most importantly helps propel you forward with their shoes design. For days when my legs no longer wanted to move, I'd always lace up in these and hit the road. First time wearing them was on a 9-mile run.  Fantastic shoe.  My favorite of all running shoes.