I tested my first pair of K-Swiss racing flats, K-Ruuz, about a year ago. The K-RUUZ has a 10mm differential and a narrow toe box. Although not a minimal shoe, it was a great start for K-Swiss. But now, K-Swiss has launched their first true minimalist running shoe, the Blade Foot Run, a zero drop lightweight running shoe.
The Blade Foot Run weights in at 9.2 ounces (US men’s 10.5) and has a stack height of 20mm. The uppers are made of a lightweight air mesh.
The midsole uses Superfoam, an energy return foam that resists compression thus lasting longer. It also has K-EVA cushioning, a special K-Swiss EVA to provide maximized cushioning and enhanced durability. Additionally, the midsole is constructed of GuideGlide, a unique midsole construction that centers the foot from heel-to-toe ensuring a more comfortable and stable ride.
The outsole is made of AOSTA II rubber, a high-density outsole providing unsurpassed durability.
You will also notice the K-Swiss Flow Cool System which enhances breathability and manages moisture from heel-to-toe to keep your feet cool and dry. This would work great in hot weather but when running in cold weather testing this shoe, my toes were cold (and of course running sockless)!
The toe box is a little narrower than I personally desire (I have wide feet) but would work well for most runners with less than 2E wide feet. I did not get any blisters or hot spots running long distances in the Blade Foot Run.
The lacing system is standard but it also come with a small loop on the tongue for easy on-off.
Running on asphalt, you can feel the cushioning, a little less than the Saucony Kinvara 2 or Nike Free Run+ 2 or Skechers GOrun but more than the Altra Instinct or Merrell Road Glove or VIVOBAREFOOT Aqua Lite. It also has great traction on wet or oily asphalt. Even though it is a road shoe, the Blade Foot Run performed wonderfully on non-technical trails. Little pebbles did get stuck on the grooves in the outsole.
What a difference a zero drop lightweight shoe can do to make running fun. Running sockless, the footbed is smooth and comfortable. If K-Swiss can come out with width sizing or make the toe box about a quarter inch wider, this will make a superb minimalist road training shoe for ALL. It also makes a great casual shoe with the stylish design.
The K-Swiss Blade Foot Run is available in 2 colorways (Silver with White, Black with Charcoal) for Men’s and one colorway (Silver with White) for Women’s.
The K-Swiss Blade Foot Run is available in January at K-Swiss and Road Runner Sports.
*Product provided by K-Swiss (MSRP $90). CMP.LY/1 Review
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