It has been a long time since Newton Running came out with radical changes to their technology. The Newton MV3 with its 5 mini-lugs was a teaser and that model is still my one and only favorite Newton shoe that I still use today for speed work and competition in track & field. With the 2014 Spring and Summer collection, Newton introduces new models with their new 5 lug technology with their mileage trainers (Gravity III, Motion III) and speed trainers (Distance III, Distance S III). For this review, we wear tested the Newton Gravity III and Newton Distance III.
Visually, you can tell the new models from the previous in three different ways. First, there is a tonal icon in the midsole mold of each model that identifies its heel-to-forefoot drop.
Secondly, you can feel the POP with Newton’s true point of power that differentiates the shape, ride, and feel found in their Action/Reaction technology.
Lastly and the most important technology identifier, the 5 lug system:
- broader and more stable platform
- greater POP sensation
- feels faster and more efficient
- accommodates the splay of all 5 metatarsals
- increased responsiveness and ground feel
What more can you ask!
Newton Distance III
Newton’s neutral speed trainer offers a lightweight performance feel on the P.O.P.1 platform. Runners who have evolved their gait to a more midfoot and forefoot focus will feel like they have hit the sweet-spot jackpot in the Distance III. Efficient runners will enjoy these as a regular training shoe and as a racing shoe. The Distance III is a great choice for runners seeking a shoe for short or mid-distance racing and weekly speed workouts.
The uppers are made of a lightweight and breathable mesh with anatomical metatarsal stretch panels plus 360 degrees of reflectivity for low light and night running. The outsole and midsole has high-rebound EVA and midfoot Action/Reaction technology with a biomechanical metatarsal sensor plate.
Newton Gravity III
Newton’s neutral mileage trainer is built for runners wanting a daily training shoe that can also function brilliantly as a faster tempo pace run or a race shoe. Suitable for race distances ranging from one block to 100 miles. The Gravity III combines the highly responsive P.O.P.1 platform with enough structure for high mileage, creating an incredibly efficient shoe for all runners.
The uppers are made of a lightweight and breathable mesh with anatomical metatarsal stretch panels plus 360 degrees of reflectivity for low light and night running. The outsole and midsole has high-rebound EVA and midfoot Action/Reaction technology with a biomechanical metatarsal sensor plate.
Different than the Distance III, the Gravity III has added Action/Reaction technology in the heel and a high abrasion rubber outsole wedge on the lateral heel area.
So how did the Newton Gravity III and Distance III perform?
My pair (US Size 10.0) of Distance III weighs in at 7.8 ounces, has a 2mm drop, and stack height of about 20mm at midfoot (assuming lugs are flat on foot strike). As for the Gravity III (US Size 10.0), it weighs in at 9.0 ounces, has a 3mm drop, and stack height of about 21mm at midfoot (assuming lugs are flat on foot strike). Both have wide forefoot toe box, flexible outsole (slightly stiffer on the Gravity III), and decent stack height. Running in both sockless, it is really comfortable, highly breathable, and lightweight – no hot spots or blisters.
With the previous 4 lug system, it is very awkward to walk gracefully in a pair of Newtons – sort of like getting used to the initial Skechers GOrun midfoot rocker-like bump or On Running CloudRacer. The new 5 lug system allows better balance and distribution of weight. Obviously, it matches naturally with the 5 toes in our foot thus allowing full splaying of all our metatarsals resulting in maximal proprioception.
The Newton Gravity III is a mileage trainer thus have more cushioning than desired for my personal situation. But for those of you putting in long mileage on asphalt, you’ll appreciate the extra cushioning. I have added the Newton Distance III into my speed work rotation and will also try it for track and field events in the next two months. Time will tell if it will replace my Newton MV3 model. But my New Balance spikes (NB 400, NB 500v3, NB 5000) will still be used for the majority of my races.
I can honestly say that these new 2014 Newton models will now appeal to the masses of runners more than ever. Unfortunately, they might have to lower their prices a bit to make it more affordable…
The Newton Distance III is currently available a single colorway for men and also for women:
The Newton Gravity III is currently available a single colorway for men and also for women:
The Newton Distance III and Gravity III are now available for purchase at: Zappos
*Product provided by Newton. CMP.LY/1 Review
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