Due out in October, Brooks Running's new PureProject line isn't exactly a minimalist shoe. Instead of forcing a natural gait by eliminating cushioning, it uses a series of features like the Ideal Heel that moves the landing zone 3mm forward to encourage less heelstomp and a more forefoot-centric gait and the Toe Flex sole, a split-toed sole that cuts weight and allows the big toe more flexibility.
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| The Toe Flex sole frees up the big toe and cuts weight. |
I just got an early release of the Pure Connect, the PureProject's lightweight road runner. After a few initial runs, my first impression is that it really does encourage a more natural footstrike. Rather than bludgeon your foot into submission with a lack of cushioning, the aforementioned features enable your feet to run naturally. I dig the extra cushioning and the 4mm heel drop, particularly when running on artificial surfaces like concrete.
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| The IDEAL Heel is designed to move the striking point further forward. |
I'll be giving a much more detailed review after I put more miles on it. So far, it looks like these shoes are going to be a very welcome, very comfortable entry in the minimalist market.
