The timing of this particular review could not have been any better. My Nike Lunarglides were on the way out so I was desperately looking for a replacement. Thank-you Newton Running and arise Sir Issac!
I had decided to take a little break from running after my 50th parkrun. I felt like I’d been neglecting my weight training for some time so I concentrated on that for a few weeks. Now I’m currently gym-less because of our house extension, I’ve been back running regularly for the past few weeks.
Newton sent me their Sir Isaac running shoe and from my very first run, it didn’t disappoint. Before I go into my review, here are some pictures I took when they were nice and clean!
Newton Running inspire the World to run better. They’re runners, teachers, philanthropists and more. The Sir Isaac is targeted as a guidance running shoe. Designed for runners of all levels and ideal for runners transitioning from heel striking to a comfortable midfoot landing position.
The pictures above display close-ups of the Sir Issac and it’s technical benefits. It’s probably easier if I just bullet point them below in the order of the photos taken:
- Slip-proof laces with heel-securing double eyelets
- Highly-breathable closed mesh
- Pronounced heel rocker
- Second generation Action/Reaction technology in the midfoot and heel
- Midfoot support chassis for added stability
- Met-flex enhanced midfoot flexibility
I was pleased to see that the Sir Issac fit me perfectly. I’m naturally a UK nine but I’m always a little nervous about receiving trainers when I haven’t tested them for size first. Standing with your heels at the back of your trainers, you should have a thumb’s width in front of your longest toe.
The first thing I noticed was that the Sir Issac was incredibly light. It was like pulling on a pair of socks and then going running. I’m talking about the weight not the feel! My first run out was only a mile, I wanted to break them in gently. Focus on good form and then gradually increase your time and distance only when you and your body is ready. As with any sport, too much too fast can cause injury.
My second run was a 5k near to where I live. There was a mixture of terrain including grass, pavement, tarmac, mud and trail. I thought the Sir Issac performed really well on all of those surfaces. I did not feel uncomfortable at any point and like my Nike Lunarglides, I found the Sir Issac running shoe to be extremely well cushioned.
The most notable feature for me was the midfoot flex. A little strange at first as it felt like I was rocking back and forth. This flexing provides two things. To learn from your shoes and to reduce friction. Let me explain a little bit more…
This is a pet hate of Ross’ and it’s about landing heavy. If you break on your heels, bound on your forefoot and push off too hard with your toes, this all creates friction. Excessive friction creates more shock to your muscles, tendons and more importantly, your bones. Try landing lighter and running more smoothly and efficiently. Newton Running and the midfoot flex help with all of those things. Newtons also work like tyres and act like a running coach. By studying the friction patterns on the sole, you can learn how to adjust and improve your running form. A brilliant idea if you ask me.
I’m really looking forward to the coming weeks and to see how my Sir Issac shoes perform in the Winter months!
Thanks for reading and if you’re looking for a new shoe, I’d highly recommend Newton Running.
Sounds like a great pair of trainers Paul. I’ll certainly checkout Newton when I come to replace my current running shoes. Thanks for a great read