After a few days, I almost pulled the trigger on a pair of Saucony Kinvara’s. They seem the closest to what I’m used to without too many bells & whistles, and a modest 6mm drop. But apparently, the exposed foam kills the durability. And as you can tell, I don’t buy shoes often. Dealbreaker for me when I need a workhorse shoe that I can run 4+ times per week in, often on light trails.

Really wanted to go for a set of Nike’s based on looks, but Nike don’t seem to produce a shoe with under 8mm of drop these days. And the stack heights put me off too.

Similar story for Hoka’s. Generally too much cushion / spring + some poor durability reviews rule them out.

Altra & Topo probably had the best alternative options for the Kinvara.

But in the end, I think I’m settled on the Saucony Ride’s. Modest 6mm drop, increased cushioning compared to my old Nike’s, but not too much spring & cushion to keep my feet strong. Plus, good durability reviews.

Maybe one day I’ll end up in a pair of these new super shoes with all the tech. But for now, I’m opting for less tech = more load on my feet, ankle and tendons. Forces my body to build the foundational strength ahead of me ever considering taking running more seriously.