![]() ![]() I did try out the previous iteration of the Saucony Grid Type line, and it was not a positive experience. Simply put, the Grid Type A5 has exceeded my expectations in nearly every possible way and has earned a spot on my feet for my Fall A-race – the Smuttynose Half-Marathon on September 30. I recently reviewed the adidas Gazelle, which is a truly awesome shoe, and next up is the A5, which I’ve managed to log 70+ miles in so far (including speedwork and several 13 mile plus long runs). It’s pretty rare for me to put more than 50 miles on a single shoe in one month given the number of reviews that I’m working on at any given time, but since mid-August I’ve run almost exclusively in two shoes: the adidas Gazelle and the Saucony Grid Type A5. There are no stitching seams in the shoe whatsoever, so wearing it barefoot is easy, and at 6.5 ounces, you might as well be wearing clouds.I think I’m in love. Obviously, whoever designed this shoe designed it with a barefoot runner in mind, as the tongue tag is embossed flush with the fabric, the tongue itself has elastic bands on either side to move up and down with the foot, and two very cool hydro-pockets on either side of the heel at the achilles tendon make for a snugger fit (which is good b/c this shoe runs about half a size large). ![]() Ridiculously cool shoe to run in ~ like someone turned on the AC ~ and I wear this shoe barefoot. The breathability is unmatched, with mesh in the uppers and perforated holes in the sole, heel, and toe box. After trying on 5 or 6 other pairs, the A4 stood out from the crowd. I’ve been a barefoot (Vibram) trail runner for over a year now but needed something a tad less minimalist for hard pavement street running, but which nonetheless gave me a similar Vibram feel. After 215 miles, this is what the sole of his shoe looks like: Update : A reader (thanks Gilbert!) indicated that he has some concerns with durability on the Grid Type A4. Compared to the Kinvara’s, I think these might be a better choice for someone really trying to run more forefoot and really feel the ground to gain feedback and stay on top of their form.” The A4’s, while they have a very similar heel/forefoot differential to the Kinvara’s, (4mm), are a little closer to the ground and have a little less cushioning but it seems just cushy enough to be very comfortable. ![]() Getting rid of a big heel allowed me to start running in a more natural barefoot-like” form. Along the way I learned that for me the biggest obstacle was the raised heel that most running shoes seem to have. I’ve gone through countless sneakers (Brooks Launch, Nike Free Run+, Saucony Kinvara, and Newtons, most recently) in an effort to find the right shoe for me. “I just got back from my first run in them and although it’s a little early to give a thorough review, I must say that if they continue to feel/perform like they did today, they will definitely be my primary running shoe for a long time to come. Update 6/7/10: Below are some initial thoughts that a reader, Todd L., sent to me regarding his experience with the Grid Type A4. Sole of the Saucony Grid Type A4 – Note the drainage holes.ĭon’t know much else about this shoe (other than that it seems overpriced for a flat at an MSRP of $95.00 – Update: thanks to Lisa in the comments for pointing out that it’s selling for $79.95 at Running Warehouse), but it looks like it has the potential to be another strong offering from Saucony – if you’ve tried it and have thoughts, feel free to leave a comment. ![]()
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