Back in January 2010 we posted, Newton Almost Defies Gravity, where we highlighted one unique shoe from the Boulder based company Newton Running; but it seems that they have one-upped themselves with a new shoe. The 5.8-ounce MV2 (pronounced ‘M V squared’) is Newton’s current answer to the other natural running shoes that are appearing on the market.
The new MV2, which will hit the ground running later this month, is super lightweight, zero-drop shoe that encourages a natural-running posture, provides protection and energy return. They are being advertised as “a unique solution for runners who want to run faster, perform better and avoid injury by adopting a natural running stride, but not sacrifice protection.” Typical ‘barefoot’ running shoes do offer some protection from road debris, but the MV2 is a little thicker giving even better protection while still not raising the heel.
Along with just protection, the MV2 employs Newton’s second-generation Action/Reaction mid-sole technology in this new shoe. The five low-profile articulating lugs are aligned with the foot’s five metatarsal heads not only offer protect, but the lugs depress into a chamber and rebound quickly with the aid of a highly resilient membrane.
“While all Newton Running shoes feature a low heel-to-toe ramp angle to support natural-running posture, the next logical addition to our line was a shoe that was completely parallel to the ground,” says Newton Running co-founder Danny Abshire. “The MV2 facilitates landing on your midfoot instead of the heel, which supports proper biomechanical alignment, faster turnover rate and greater running efficiency. This means you run faster with less effort.”
Mated to this unique sole in the Newton MV2 is a highly breathable mesh upper that is reinforced with a durable micro screen which helps keep out dirt and debris.
Not only does this shoe offer a more ‘natural’ running position, but you can also feel a little greener inside know that the new MV2 contains 100-percent recycled laces, webbing and insole topcover; plus each pair of MV2 shoes are shipped in a 100-percent recycled box.
The MV 2 is available in men’s sizes 6 to 14 and women’s sizes 4.5 to 12 and will retail for $125. Included with every pair of the MV 2 are instructions for adjusting to a zero-drop shoe. You still may not be able to defy gravity, but the MV2 might just get you one step closer.