Motion Control Shoe Trends
The combination of better engineering and lighter materials means that motion control shoes are also able to slim down. The use of EVA midsoles with polyurethane sockliners (innersoles) has provided the protection while lightening the overall weight of many motion control shoes.
Weaknesses: No significant weaknesses for recommended users.
Recommended for: Medium- to low-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation.
The Peerless, while not their first motion control shoe, is a turning point. The motion control is right down the middle of the road, which provides good performance with the cushioning of the Cell technology.
Weaknesses: No significant weaknesses for recommended users.
Recommended for: Medium- to low-arched feet with moderate overpronation.
The update to the Tyranny follows with adidas' pattern for dramatic visual change. The motion controlling technology is effective, relying on lateral and medial support of a large Torsion dam to curb overpronation. The cushioning offers the smooth transition expected of adidas, with a large Ultrastrike heel pad and very good forefoot flexibility.
ASICS Gel MC Plus V
ASICS Gel MC Plus V $100
Sizes: Men 8-13,14,15,16 D,4E widths; Women 7-12.
Weight: Men 13 oz. (size 9); Women 11 oz. (size 7).
Weaknesses: No significant weaknesses for recommended users.
Recommended for: Medium- to low-arched feet with moderate to excessive overpronation.
All areas needing attention have been addressed: cushioning, forefoot flexibility, and widths. The cushioning has been accomplished with the use of SpEVA and DuraSole in the forefoot, turning an adequate ride into cushioned comfort. Adjustments in the upper and forefoot design and fiddling with the flex-grooves has greatly improved the forefoot flexion. A redesign in lasts has developed true width sizing to better accommodate squarish feet.
Brooks Beast
Brooks Beast $110
Sizes: Men 8-13,14,15,16 D,2E widths; Women 6-11,12,13 B,D widths.
Weight: Men 14.3 oz. (size 9) Women 12.4 oz. (size 7).
Weaknesses: No significant weaknesses for recommended users.
Recommended for: Medium- to low-arched feet with moderate to excessive overpronation.
Of course, taming the overpronating foot is the forte of the Beast and the current version continues that role. The technology is still in there, but perhaps the least-expected feature is the polyurethane sockliner, which provides durable comfort.
