Adidas Adizero Ace and New Balance MR890. I would be buying them through the mail so I don't have a change to try them on.
I like the Launch alot and looking for a shoe similar to them. They have just the right amount of cushion for longer runs and they're light enough to notice a difference. I thought the kinvara would be similar but found them not to be.
Don't know anything about the Adidas, but I've run in both Launch and 890. Certainly not identical but similar is a good word. I liked them both and would run in either again. As a matter of fact I'm trying to decide which I might get again next.
I have run in both, and I prefer the Brooks launch. They seem to have a little more forefoot cushioning. I need that, and the NB feels a little lighter.
The Ace is much firmer underfoot and tighter fitting over the arch. (If you order the Ace, you might want to order .5 size smaller than your Launch.) I heel strike a bit and the heel of the Ace wore away more quickly than the Launch. I love the forefoot feel of the Ace, but overall I found the Launch more comfortable.
thanks for the suggestions..bump for any more comments.
Personally, I found the MR890 to lack cushioning, at least enough to do consistent mileage in (70-80mpw). I prefer the MR880 over the 890s, but this is a rather personal opinion, as your form/style/economy may be much different than mine.
Karhu Flow
To piggy-back on the OP.... how is the Launch compared to Asics Speedstars? I've ran in the Speedstars for the past 2 years, but I've been out for about 3 months. I generally like Brooks shoes to race in, but haven't found a decent training shoe. Any input on the similarities, differences?
I have tried all of these and they are all similar shoes. Use to Shoefitr guide for sizes. It has been very accurate for me. I think it told me 890 9 (smaller than I wear in NB usually), Launch 9.5, Ace 10 (typical for Adidas). I like them all.
I wear a men's 7.5 so I can't wear the Launch because it starts at size 8. Was considering these other options though, what do you guys think of these shoes as an alternative?
1. Asics Skyspeed
2. Saucony Mirage
3. New Balance 890