Doctors of Running Podcast

Dive into a discussion about the most underrated running shoes of 2024, highlighting hidden gems like Hoka Skyflow and ASICS Novablast 4. The hosts share their personal running experiences and compare various models based on comfort and support. They also explore the best footwear for everyday adventures, balancing style and practicality. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the most valuable shoes for those seeking bang-for-buck performance, perfect for both seasoned runners and casual wearers.

If you've been following Doctors of Running for a while, you know we love a good heel bevel. For many of us (especially Matt), it can make or break the experience of a shoe. Matt & David get together to take a deep dive on heel bevels. They look at what it is, how it effects motion and mechanics, and explore some specific examples (everything from the Brooks Ghost Max 2 to the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2). Check out our friends at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Skratch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:47 - What is a heel bevel? 9:16 - How do heel bevels influence motion? 16:05 - Some examples of shoes with differeing bevels 24:31 - How foam properties influence bevels 26:07 - Some extreme bevel examples 29:46 - Designing the ideal heel bevel 36:58 - Wrap-up

On this special edition of the podcast, Matt & Nathan get together to discuss dad & family life. They share their daily routines, family rhythms, and how running fits into it all, especially in the face of big recent life changes. As always, there's a little shoe-talk thrown in as they discuss New Balance's latest update to the venerable 860 and Nathan's recent experiences sizing up in a few shoes. Check out our friends at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Skratch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:44 - New stability methods and the New Balance 860 9:41 - When it's branching out from your normal shoe size 13:59 - Matt's new life changes 23:36 - Nathan's work/life routines 28:16 - The benefits & challenges of fitting running into family life 35:42 - Finding your priorities as life stages shift 45:47 - Wrap-up

Mailbag–time for more of your questions! On this episode, Andrea tackles a bunch of footwear and training queries. Learn more about heel bevels, the effect of soft shoes on hip mechanics, shoes after ACL surgery, adapting to the heat. and more. Plus, she shares her unique experience as a former professional cyclist and current bike-fitter on how to replace or supplement easy running with bike rides. Want your question answered? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Check out our friends at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Skratch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:56 - Andrea's current favorite shoes 9:16 - The effect of heel bevels on stability 14:24 - Shoe suggestions for Hyrox 19:08 - Shoes for metatarsalgia 23:30 - Trail shoes with no heel counter 25:15 - Shoe suggestions while coming back from ACL surgery 31:04 - Can softer/bouncier shoes cause hip pain? 35:48 - Heat adaptations as you age 42:07 - Replacing easy runs with cycling 47:29 - Wrap-up

Dive into lively debates on super trainers versus training companions, exploring their performance and comfort. The hosts tackle 2023 vs. 2024 shoes, identify top beginner options, and weigh the joys of 5Ks against marathons. They share personal anecdotes about running in extreme temperatures and even debate California's geography. Foam rolling and percussion massage get pitted against each other, while Olympic medal significance sparks spirited discussions. Get ready for needlessly hot takes and a playful mix of insights!

Join Nathan and Matt as they delve into the fascinating world of stable neutral shoes. They define what stable neutral means and share tips on assessing your own needs for stability. Discover comparisons between popular models like the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and ASICS Superblast 2, analyzing crucial features such as midsole stiffness and foam technology. They also highlight the innovative designs of shoes like the Hoka Skyward X, exploring how modern footwear balances support and comfort for all types of runners.

Explore the critical role of long runs in building endurance and the balance between benefits and injury risks. Discover personalized strategies to gradually increase mileage and select the right shoes for your feet. Learn practical tips for adapting runs in extreme weather and hear insights on navigating long runs after injury. This lively discussion highlights how to thrive in long-distance running while maintaining a healthy training regimen.

Between super racing shoes and super trainers, it seems like half the shoes on the market have super foams and/or carbon plates. But, what if spending too much time in these maximally performing, fun shoes, might be doing us a disservice? Matt and David look into the research and share anecdotes from their own training on how super shoes have affected them. Then they take a look at some of the excellent non-plated, lightweight trainer options like the New Balance Rebel v4, Topo Cyclone 2, and more. Check out our friends at ⁠⁠⁠Skratch⁠⁠⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:04 - The pros/cons of training in plated & super shoes 14:14 - Topo Cyclone 2 16:52 - Kinvara 15 19:36 - ASICS Tri Noosa 16 22:51 - New Balance Rebel v4 24:37 - Hoka Mach 6 26:52 - Brooks Hyperion 30:50 - Saucony Ride 17 33:56 - Wrap-up

This episode is all about uppers. Often the more overlooked part of running shoes, uppers can make or break the running experience. Nathan and David get together to rank ten shoes from Hoka, Altra, Saucony, ASICS, Topo, and more from 10-1 on upper fit for them. They also explore what components make an upper and how to find the best fit for you. Check out our friends at ⁠⁠Skratch⁠⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:47 - What is a shoe's upper? 6:05 - Tier 4 uppers 14:53 - Tier 3 uppers 22:32 - Tier 2 uppers 27:34 - Tier 1 uppers 34:04 - Wrap-up

On this episode, Andrea is joined by long time friend of the pod, Tina Danforth, Footwear Product Line Manager for Brooks Running. They take a deep dive into Brooks's latest updates to their Hyperion line, specifically the Hyperion 2, Hyperion Max 2, and Hyperion Elite 4. Tina breaks down the specific science of their foams (DNA Flash & DNA Loft) and how they formulate them for different uses. They also take a look at the upcoming Ghost Max 2, an update to the massively popular debut. Check out our friends at ⁠Skratch⁠ and save 25% on your first order with code DOR24! Chapters 0:00 - Intro 4:12 - Big updates in the Hyperion line of shoes 6:14 - The difference between DNA Flash & DNA Loft foams 8:16 - How DNA Flash has evolved 10:51 - Geometry & design updates on the Hyperion Max 2 15:30 - The new Hyperion Elite 4 18:33 - What's new for the Hyperion 2 29:52 - Building stability into the Hyperion line 32:14 - What's coming from Brooks in 2025 35:48 - How Brooks creates its foams 42:30 - Updates to the Ghost Max 2 48:04 - Brooks' approach to stability 52:56 - How Brooks' design philosophy has evolved over the years 54:40 - Wrap-up