I got my 1st gen Kinvaras just when they came out but at the time I simply couldn’t run in them, a 10K in those things was almost crippling so they went collecting dust in a closet. A few months ago I decided to give them another try and absolutely love them. I’ve been logging 30+ miles per week without any pain at all. Unfortunately they are due for a replacement. Since I am going to be in a running shoe store I thought I’d check out some similar shoes since it seems that quite a bit of progress has been made since the original Kinvaras came out. Which ones should I check out?
The new balance 1400 is nice. I also like the Brooks pure connect, but its a bit more of a flat rather than an every day shoe.
Why not just go with the current gen Kinvara 3? They’ve fixed some of the longevity complaints without affecting the overall shoe. I think they’re a fantastic upgrade over the previous versions. I do have to also give a thumbs up to the Brooks Pure Connect. They’re terrific.
I went from kinvaras to brooks pure flow (much wider than the connects, but same 4mm drop). Love the pure flows, have 3 pair now.
Another vote for Brooks…I tried the Kinvaras a year ago and they only lasted 100 miles and were too wide in the toe box.
Kinvara 2s are on sale
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+1
$68 for Kinvara 2’s on saucony.com.
I’m a big fan of the Brooks Pure Connect. I would definately give them a try.
Have you tried the Saucony MIrage? I use both the Kinvara and Mirage, I love both, and use the Mirage when I want a little support on longer runs.
I ended up with New Balance 1600. They didn’t really feel any more cushy than 1400 but felt quite a bit more stable.
altras insticts, 0 drop, wide toe box, very comfy
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I personally find the wide toe box to be horrid.