2013 Minimal and Barefoot Style Running Shoe Sneak Peek

I gave away shoes in the past few weeks to make room,
It is getting out of hand in my closet.

Well, mine won't be the first or the most heavily viewed 2013 running shoe preview blog post, I will leave that the the big boys like my friend, Pete, over at Runblogger.  So, why even do a 2013 running shoe preview post?  Well, in my case I work with fewer companies than some of the really big blogs, so I like to think I can offer a more detailed look at those products that I do review.  So, this is my own way of teasing what you will probably see here at Average Guy. Not that the big guys don't do a great job at what they do, they just have a lot going on! In 2013, my reviews of these shoes and more will be more detailed, more illustrated, and better than ever!

So far this season, we have received products from 4 companies.  As I mentioned in my last post about the Saucony Triumph 10, I actually get sort of choosy about what stuff I look at now because I am a dad, have a full-time gig at the Conservancy, and I am just an average mid-pack runner.  In short, I can only run so much and review only so many shoes to give them an honest shakeout!

So, what am I looking forward to, and what will you be hearing about from me in the next few months?  Here is a short list. Some of these I already have and am in the process of reviewing, some are still in the mail. Keep in mind this is a just a sneak peak post...subscribe to my blog or my Facebook page for he detailed reviews.  In fact, coming out shortly, you'll see some new Saucony stuff, and a comprehensive guide to to full 2013 Merrell M-Connect Series (including apparel...Merrell apparel, ha!)

Here are the shoes I am excited about for 2013.  I am particularly interested in the trail stuff, as I start deciding what I will wear for my August 50 miler.

Saucony Virrata, photo from Running Warehouse

Saucony Virrata: A zero-drop road shoe, which seems to essentially be a zero-drop, lighter Kinvara. Sounds fantastic.

Saucony Peregrine 3,
photo from Running Warehouse

Saucony Peregrine 3: The first real set of updates to this very capable and popular shoe.  I used a pair of original Peregrines for all my trail running, including a marathon and the Stumpjump 50k in Tennessee, in 2011. Peregrine is truly in my hall of fame and I believe this update will be a killer.

Saucony Kinvara 4: What can you say?  Further evolution of the "People's Shoe!" Photos available HERE

Leading the charge in my closet right now is this...
MixMaster Move from Merrell.

Merrell MixMaster Move: I have been wearing this shoe daily for about two months. A firm, 4mm-drop shoe with light trail cred and road manners.  The original MixMaster has a rock plate, but this slightly different version is more road-friendly.

Merrell Road Glove 2, very promising!

Merrell Road Glove 2: I have a pair, but I only just received them.  I am impressed on handling them, they are like a slightly firmer, lower Bare Access 2.  It is almost like the Bare Access 2 and Road Glove 2 are just a "firm" and "cushioned" version of the same shoe.  That is a good thing, they both fit well, are well updated in terms of durability and comfort, and they look great in person.

Merrell Trail Glove 2: Finally!  I love the TG.  My all-time favorite minimal shoe outsole is the original Trail Glove.  The photos are still in the bag on this one, but stay tuned...it is coming! (No photos available at this time!)

You might be able to wear Vapor Gloves
inside another pair of shoes.

Merrell Vapor Glove: The only people who will buy Vibram Five Fingers from here on out in my opinion will be the people who just really want to make a fashion statement with toe shoes, and those who have not tried on the Merrell Vapor Glove.  This shoe is basically the most minimal, barefoot-style non-VFF I have run in, and I run in lots of shoes.

Patagonia EVERmore...will this be
Patagonia's big breakthrough?

Patagonia EVERmore: Patagonia is trying to make waves with shoes as good as their clothes for trail runners, and the EVERmore is going to be a contender.  In characteristic Patagonia style, they are simple and understated, well-made, colorful, and eco-savvy.  Also Patagonia shoes are manufactured by Wolverine Worldwide...the same company that owns Merrell and Saucony.  Stay tuned to Patagonia trail running shoes in 2013, give them a chance.

Skora Phase: I loved the Skora FORM, but did not get along at all with the Skora BASE.  The PHASE looks great, so I am eager to try a pair. Characteristic Skora style!

Altra One: A lightweight Instinct-like shoe with the awesome Altra fit and very hip, current 2013 design? This will be a smash for Altra, like everything this sweet up-and-coming company does.

So yeah, unless some new stuff pops up, you can look for my input on these and more in 2013 if I can get my hands on them all.  Also, I will be talking about ultra marathon training, apparel and other kit, and posting some reviews of products I have been spending time with this winter from Merrell and Saucony, like the Saucony Adventerra GTX.  Stay tuned folks!