Brooks Vapor

A versatile and comfortable shoe, like the Brooks Vapor, should be on top of your running must- haves if you are just a beginner of the sport. Inspired by one of the award- winning stability shoes from the same brand, it aspires to provide a balance of responsive support and plush cushioning for new and young runners. The wonders of the Brooks Vapor are found in the midsole, wherein the cushioning provides bounce- back properties for a boost in your running efficiency for daily training. If you suffer from mild to moderate over pronation, then this is also a shoe for you. Despite the circumstances, the optimal support and comfort offered by the shoe will not let you down.

Arch support and pronation control

The Brooks Vapor is considered to be a stability or support- specific shoe because of the cushioning technologies incorporated in it. It has the DRB Accel and the Diagonal Rollbar in the midsole, specifically in the mid-foot to improve heel to toe transition and decelerate pronation. It results in better medial support to help runners with mild to moderate over pronation reduce the risk of injury or pain while running.

Terrain                                 

The Brooks Vapor is built for both track and trail. It is not recommended for technical runs because of its lack of trail- specific or track- specific technologies. However, the shoe could be used in any climate because of its moisture- managing element linings and HPR Plus outsole, which provides durable traction and grip on dry and wet surfaces.

Use

The Brooks Vapor is designed for daily training. Its stability technologies keep the weight of the shoe high, so it could not be used for speed work or racing. The shoe is a great go-to shoe for fitness activities, like endurance training, and casual activities (walking, travelling).

Durability

The Brooks Vapor has a high durability threshold, which is the result of a high stiffness rating. As compared  to other stability shoes, it is more durable even when used in different weather conditions. Its high wear- resistant outsole prolongs the shoe’s traction and grip for a long time, even with excessive use.

Outsole

When it comes to running on the track, beginners need to have a responsive support and stable cushioning to enjoy a smooth ride. The outer sole of the Brooks Vapor contributes to these aspects, thanks to the technical features and technologies incorporated in the under surface. The shoe has the HPR Plus, one of the best outsole technologies that are known for durable traction and high wear resistance. It also features the Forefoot Stable Pod Construction, which is part of the Podular Technology (PodTech). In the front, there are the omega flex grooves to improve flexibility and facilitate more dynamic toe- off phases without compromising support.

Midsole

The midsole of the Brooks Vapor is expected to house cushioning technologies since it is known to be a stability shoe. The latest update of the shoe features the Brooks DNA Circular, a newly- patented technology from Brooks that offers a customized shock absorption profile based on the runner’s speed, weight and unique biomechanics. Its main midsole materials are the Bio- EVA foam, a biodegradable compound, and the S-257 Cushsole. To enhance the stability and pronation control of the shoe, Brooks incorporated the DRB Accel and the Diagonal Rollbar (DRB) in the mid-foot. Lastly, there is the Caterpillar Crash Pad in the heel area, which is segmented for better heel striking.

Upper

The upper of the Brooks Vapor has been just like most of its siblings under the stability category. It is made of air mesh to increase the standard of breathability and flexibility at the top. Synthetic overlays provide lateral support for the foot when it tackles uphill or downhill routes. Inside of the shoe, there are moisture- managing element linings. The shoe can be used in different climates because the linings ensure a comfortable and dry environment for the foot. The heel collar and tongue are also padded for easy entry and exit. Easy adjustment could be accomplished with the traditional lacing system of Brooks.

Boost your running efficiency by relying on one of the best transition shoes in the market. The Brooks Vapor will surely present a great balance between the two aspects that you need for a stable and efficient run: responsive support and cushioning. With the shoe’s lineup of technologies and features, you are assured of an optimal energy return during your gait cycle. The innovations in the shoe also maintain a high standard of breathability, flexibility and durability. Beginners will make the most out of this investment, but advanced runners could also take advantage of the shoe’s stable cushioning and bounce- back properties for daily training. At the price of $90, it is quite a steal in the market.

Price

The Brooks Vapor originally retails at $90. This is already reasonable for running beginners. However, you can still get the shoe for a lower price by availing sale promotions and discounts at department stores, shoe retailers or web sellers.