Brooks PureConnect
In addition to my compression socks I bought this weekend, I also bought a new pair of shoes. Originally when I went into the store, I was planning on buying another pair of New Balance Minimus. However, I had been considering a minimalist shoe with just a little more cushion. I decided to buy the Brooks PureConnect on a whim (again, it was tax free weekend and I had a coupon), and so far so good.
I’m not going to go into a detailed shoe review. Sometimes I find that to be a little too technical and overwhemling. Instead, I just want to give a little background on the Brooks PureProject and give my overall thoughts of the shoe.
The PureProject collection is a tribute to runners with a sense of adventure and a craving to grab their run by the horns. Radically lightweight, flexible materials merge with smart design to naturally align your stride and empower every push-off. Unleash your feet; experience the PureProject by Brooks with four unique shoes in vibrant colors.
There are four shoes that make up the PureProject. They are the PureConnect, the PureFlow, the PureCadence, and the PureGrit. PureConnect is the lightest, and most flexible shoe. PureFlow has a little more cushion but still with the lightweight, free feel. PureCadence has more stability and a “reinforced heel that cradles the foot.” Finally, the PureGrit is more suited for the trails and it was created with the help of Scott Jurek himself.
I went for a recovery run Sunday after my long run on Saturday. Saturday’s run was tough – hilly and super humid. (So humid I actually weighed my clothes once I got home and wasn’t too surprised when the scale said 2.4 pounds. ) For my recovery run, I wanted to go easy and I didn’t have high expectations. I put on my PureConnects and headed out the door. I went out focusing on effort – go easy and do NOT injure yourself. My initial thoughts – oh my this shoe is amazing! It is super light which is what I’m use to, but it has just the right amount of cushion. Exactly what I was looking for. Sometimes my feet need a break from pounding the pavement in the Minimus and this shoe was perfect. It is extremely breathable and it fits my foot like a glove. I don’t like for shoes to be too loose. I prefer the snug feeling and this shoe has it. This morning I went out for an 8 miler and wore the PureConnects again. My initial thoughts were reaffirmed – minimal, breathable, and just a little cushion. If you want to read all the specs of the shoe, go here.
Right now I have 11 miles on the shoes. Therefore I can’t comment on the durability and my mind might change about the awesomeness of the shoes in a few weeks. Only time and mileage will tell. But I appreciate what Brooks is doing with the PureProject, and I look forward to running in the PureConnects while here in Miami. The nice flat roads will certainly be a change from Raleigh.
My super bright PureConnects
Happy Trails and Happy Running,
Tracie
