Newton Distance IV Review

June 7, 2015
Newton Distance IV
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
89
Fit
8
Comfort
8
Stability
5
Smoothness
9
Speed and Agility
9

The Good

  • Very lightweight
  • Strong midsole responsiveness
  • Low heel-toe drop

The Bad

  • Poor traction for wet conditions or venturing off-road
  • EVA outsole wears down quickly
THE VERDICT

The Newton Distance IV is built for speed, and is ideal for midfoot strikers on fast training or race days. The outsole durability and midsole responsiveness will be an issue if you’re not a consistent midfoot striker. Among other shoes in this category, the Distance IV is one of the lightest and fastest on the road. 

FULL REVIEW

Fit
The fit of the Distance IV is very similar to the Distance III, with perhaps a little more space in the midfoot area. The heel area cups the foot securely, if somewhat stiffly. The toe box is wide enough for full toe splay without being excessively roomy. A traditional lacing system holds the midfoot area very secure.

Comfort
Material construction throughout the upper is soft, thin, and breathable. The toe box has a wide open mesh that ventilates and dries effectively, but also lets in the cold on chilly mornings. Lightweight padding around the heel collar is comfortable against the ankle, and the tongue is very thin but doesn’t allow too much pressure from the laces. The anatomic toe box prevents chafing or hot spots on high mileage days.    

Stability
Newton’s recent addition of the fifth action-reaction lug to its midsoles marked a huge improvement in ground contact stability compared to earlier models. The Distance IV lacks any outsole rubber aside from the midfoot region, so traction in the rearfoot area is lacking in wet conditions or on gravel.

Smoothness
The action-reaction lugs are wonderful for transferring energy from midfoot strike through toe-off—but if you get sloppy and start heel striking, they’re less effective. The great EVA midsole flexibility contributes to a smoother ride as well. 

Speed and Agility
A super lightweight build and snappy action-reaction technology makes the Distance IV a top choice for speed training or racing.

 


Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
USER REVIEWS

No reviews have been posted for this product.

Related posts
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x