Newton Running Motion III Review

May 12, 2014
Newton Running Motion III
Newton-Motion-3-profile
Newton-Motion-3-profile2
Newton-Motion-3
Newton Running Motion III Newton-Motion-3-profile Newton-Motion-3-profile2 Newton-Motion-3
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
83
Security of Fit
8
Stability (on impact)
8
Smoothness (while striding)
9
Comfort
8
Speed & Agility
5
Value
5

The Good

  • Forefoot lugs anatomically aligned
  • Wider base of support on landing for improved stability
  • Comfortable, breathable upper

The Bad

  • High stack height
  • Heavy weight in natural running category
THE VERDICT

The new five-lug technology on the Newton Running Motion III represents a major upgrade from past models. With the new design, the contact area is spread wider across the forefoot, making for more stable landings via increased surface area contact. Runners who have loved Newton trainers in the past will be extremely happy with the updated Motion III.

FULL REVIEW

Security of fit
The Newton Running Motion III wrapped my foot effectively from the heel through the forefoot, with synthetic overlays that span from the heel to the laces. Shape-wise, the platform of the Motion III mirrors that of past Newton models, with nice room in the toe box for natural foot splay on landing. Newton sticks with a traditional lacing system that allows customized tension with very little slippage of the foot inside the shoe during testing. 

Stability on impact
Herein lies the key update to Newton Running’s 2014 models: an evolution from four forefoot outsole lugs to five. In addition to being the point of energy return (or, as Newton describes it, Point of Power), the lugs are the main landing area for true forefoot runners. With five lugs, the contact area is spread wider across the forefoot, making for more stable landings via increased surface area contact. The difference is noticeable compared to the old four-lug design, especially on uneven road surfaces or off-road detours.

The Motion III also utilizes an extended medial bridge in the midsole, which creates increased surface area and functional support through the midsole area. This feature is targeted at runners who pronate or have flat arches – but natural running purists would certainly dispute the necessity of this design.

Stability (flexibility)
The essence of action-reaction technology remains the same, and the Motion III provides a very responsive ride for mid-foot and forefoot strikers. The high-rebound EVA material flows smoothly from heel or mid-foot strike, and the entire shoe has moderate anterior-posterior flexibility for natural foot flexion. Anatomic alignment of the five lugs further improves smoothness and natural movement.

Comfort
Thin-but-plush padding provides a soft and comfortable interior surface, suitable for socks or bare skin. The properly spacious toe box prevents hot spots or chafing, and the lightweight mesh breathes and dries very effectively as needed.

Speed and agility
While its midsole design and material construction are built for optimal energy return, the weight of the Motion III ensures that it should be utilized as a trainer rather than a race-day model.&

 


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