Running...one of my favorite exercises. But it's more than just exercise, it's an integral part of my life. I especially love trail running. But road running is important for training purposes.


Nike

Nike's line of running shoes no longer includes the Ekiden Extra. It is an older shoe model. New shoe lines include the Nike Shox series for runners and the Zoom Elite. Of course, everyone knows Nike is one of the largest and most successful shoe manufacturers in the world. Steve Prefontaine wore the first pair of shoes with the Nike Swoosh logo on it. Great shoes for great runners.

www.nike.com


The Ekiden Extra

Extra? Yeah, extra stability support. The Ekiden is for those that have pronation/supination problems. The Ekiden is designed for road races from 5k all the up to the marathon level. I wouldn't recommend using them past half-marathon distance. They are good shoes and serve their purpose well. The mesh upper has a reflective coating on it, it's comfortable and provides good fit. This shoe is about the minimum needed to get by, since it's a racing shoe. The midsole is made of low-profile Phylon, it also includes Nike Air in the heel for cushioning. There's a midfoot shank that resists torsion, making the shoe more rigid and providing arch support. The very durable outsole is made of BRS 1000 carbon rubber. The outsole has great traction. There are enough flex zones to provide great flexibility, just enough for racing.

Don't use this shoe for training. Since it's a racing shoe they don't provide very good protection. You'll be more likely to injure yourself running in these shoes often. I really don't like the colors the Ekiden comes in.

Fun Fact: The Streak Ekiden was used by Paula Radcliffe in her 2002 Flora London Marathon winning run.

Rating:
Upper: 8
Midsole: 8
Outsole: 8
Comfort: 7
Style: 6
Overall: 8


Final Say

Nike shoes are a bit pricier than most other brands. But the Ekiden Extra is a great shoe. If you decide to purchase it you won't regret it. Enjoy!

www.nikerunning.com



Keep Running, So You Don't End Up Like Vice-President Dick Cheney!




-- Stop Word Count --

Words: 357
Visit: Sleeper54
W/O Page: Lean-N-Mean-2 W/O
My Other Entries: WSU Cougars Fleece Blanket, Fitness Quest Total Gym 1500



Recommended: Yes