Recommended Neutral Shoes in PH (2016)

You don't know the latest running shoes that will drop in the Philippines this year? Are you looking for a cushioned neutral trainer this 2016 but clueless on where to find one? Here are some recommendations that might interest you.

TOP Running Shoes under the NEUTRAL CATEGORY (Premium and Performance)

1.) NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM 1080v6

Taken from Google Images

The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 is considered as one of the first rate performance running shoes of the brand this year. Adding the Fresh Foam sole technology and a soft engineered mesh, New Balance “Always in Beta” reinvented the 1080 version into a pair that offers runners more flexibility, while enjoying a smooth and highly cushioned ride similar to a maximalist shoe. The outsole features hexagonal patterns that supplement the responsiveness of the Fresh Foam 1080 during speedy runs. This update is a great treat for the fans of the NB 1080.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Premium

Offset: 7- 8mm Weight: 10.3 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 29mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 21mm

2.) ASICS NIMBUS 18

Taken from Google Images

On to its 18^th iteration, the well-known Japanese sports brand continues its tradition of providing long lasting neutral trainers; fused with materials developed from the latest running technologies available. ASICS’ premium material ASICS Gel was added to the heel pad to create a better and supportive underfoot sole. Along with an improved Guidance Line technology, runners can expect a more luxurious and comfortable ride as they go the distance with the “cloud runners”.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Premium

Offset: 9-10mm Weight: 11.3 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 29mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 19mm

3.) SAUCONY KINVARA 7

Taken from Google Images

Hailed as one of the top neutral running shoes under the lightweight category, Saucony’s Kinvara 7 comes back with a brand new feature. The EVERUN sole, an expanded TPU material cushioning system that boasts an 83% energy return, replaces the PowerGrid in this update. The EVERUN will give runners an even better combination of responsiveness and cushioning that made the Kinvara series a top pick among seasoned runners.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Performance

Offset: 4mm Weight: 7.7 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 22mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 18mm

4.) BROOKS PURE FLOW 5

Taken from Google Images

Brooks made major updates on the Pureflow 5 by integrating a midsole called DNA LT. It is a lightweight material that adjusts to every stride of the runner.The DNA LT is 10% lighter than the BioMoGo DNA midsole applied in its previous version and to other Brooks shoes as well. Runners can also expect a greater fit because of the no-sew overlays provided by the new 3D Fit Print. When it comes to quality performance, the Brooks Pureflow 5 is a strong competitor in the Neutral category.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Performance

Offset: 3-4mm Weight: 9.3 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 24mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 20mm

5.) NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM ZANTE V2

Taken from Google Images

The Zante became a favorite among thousands of runners after its release. Now on its 2^ndversion, New Balance made small but noticeable changes on the Zante v2. Aside from the improved upper overlays, the outsole features a hexagonal pattern that aims to give a firmer (or snappier) ride to its runner while maintaining the buttery-like feel of the Fresh Foam.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Performance

Offset: 5-6mm Weight: 8.7 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 23mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 17mm

6.) SAUCONY TRIUMPH ISO 2

Taken from Google Images

Bagging the Runner’ World Editor’s Choice last year, the Saucony Triumph ISO 2 brings major updates this 2016. The Triumph ISO 2 provides a more responsive cushioning than its predecessors’, with the combined features of the EVERUN sole and an EVERUN Landing Zone within the heel area. The ISOFIT upper was also improved for a more glove-like fit on your feet. Expect plushier rides with the new TRI-FLEX outsole as you enter a whole new level of “WOAH”.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Premium

Offset: 7-8mm Weight: 10.2 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 31mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 23mm

7.) BROOKS LAUNCH 3

The Brooks Launch 3 returns with a new 3D Fit Print upper that provides structure and flawless fit around your foot and a redesigned mesh fabric for more breathability. The Launch 3 offers a smooth and responsive ride as it dynamically adapts to your stride using its BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning system. With a updated rubber outsole in the forefoot area that promotes efficient to-off transition, the Brooks Launch 3 will definitely launch your steps as you go for the long haul.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Performance

Offset: 10 mm Weight: 9.1 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 27mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 17mm

8. ASICS CUMULUS 18

The ASICS Gel Cumulus 18 features a strategically placed Gel unit on its heel area that further optimizes its shock absorption capability. Maintaining its Trusstic System and Impact Guidance Line, this daily neutral trainer promotes midfoot integrity and efficient heel-to-toe transition as you reach for the miles ahead. The Cumulus 18 presents a seamless upper mesh that provides a comfortable fit and breathability. If you want a premium trainer that is both comfortable and responsive, this might be the pair for you.

Shoe Category: Neutral Shoe Type: Premium

Offset: 10 mm Weight: 11.1 oz (size 9)

Heel Stack Height: 30mm

Forefoot Stack Height: 20mm

(DISCLAIMER: All featured shoes are from established brands in the Philippines. The selection was made based on the preference and experience of the writer and the most common running shoes recommended and rated by fellow runners.)