Saucony ProGrid Kinvara — ($90)

2010 Summer Shoe Guide Homepage

The Kinvara is a show stopper with its new take on minimalist running. Our test team was duly impressed with the comfort and performance of a shoe that initially struck them as somewhat bare bones. This neutral training shoe encourages mid- or forefoot running and is light enough for racing but offers resilient cushioning and protection for solid training sessions. The fit is a close one, except for the roomy forefoot, and this isn’t the easiest shoe to get into. But once on foot, the Kinvara pulls an impressive disappearing act: It goes away so you run as though you are barefoot, allowing your foot to go where it might. Accordingly, we don’t recommend these for runners who feel they need motion control. saucony.com