Doctors of Running Podcast

David and Andrea run through a new round of This or That, They weigh the Sonicblast 2 against the SC Rebel, debate non-plated versus plated performance trainers, and take sides on specific-task versus versatile footwear. Also, what's better: recovery runs or long walks? Liquids or gels during long runs? And much more. Want your ideas on the next This or That? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORSEPT10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:04 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 15:52 - This or That? Sonicblast 2 or SC Rebel? 23:00 - Non-plated or plated 2026 performance trainers? 32:00 - Specific-task shoes or versatile shoes? 41:10 - Recovery run or long walk? 52:48 - More outsole for durability or less outsole for less weight? 57:14 - Liquids or gels during long runs? 59:30 - Cucumber lime or watermelon Skratch? 1:02:54 - Soft or firm midsoles for long runs? 1:09:30 - Wrap-up

Matt sits down with Stephan Scholten, adidas' Global Vice President of Product, for an inside look at the development of the Adios Pro 5. Scholten walks through what's new in Adidas's popular racer — from the Energy Rim and updated geometry to changes in the Lightstrike Pro midsole, outsole traction, and upper. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORSEPT10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 0:50 - Overview of the new elements of the Adios Pro 5 3:14 - What does the new energy rim bring to the shoe? 6:14 - How has the geometry changed? 7:48 - How has the midsole changed? 11:24 - How they improved the outsole traction 15:48 - Durability testing 20:32 - How have Adidas athletes responded to the shoe? 22:12 - Upper changes 25:28 - Big lessons Adidas has learned from their new racing shoes 30:22 - The future of the Adizero line 31:14 - Wrap-up

David and Matt dig into the mailbag, covering whether there are any drawbacks to running in just one shoe, advice on managing ligament injuries, and how height and weight influence the way runners interact with their footwear. They also field questions on shoe choices for HIIT and hybrid training, whether high-drop shoes still have a place, and recommendations for replacing the Saucony Tempus 2. Want your mailbag question on the next episode? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORSEPT10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:44 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 22:08 - Are there any drawbacks to only running in one shoe? 26:32 - Any advice on managing ligament injuries? 29:12 - How does our height and weight impact how we interact with shoes? 34:48 - What shoes should I use for HIIT/hybrid training? 39:16 - Are high (8-12mm) drop shoes still ok? 44:08 - Recommendations for replacing the Saucony Tempus 2 50:04 - Wrap-up

What's more important: fit or performance? Nathan, Matt, and David rank five performance trainers based on fit, then weight in on how fit and performance work together to better help you figure out what shoes work best for you. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORSEPT10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 6:58 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 37:58 - Ranking five shoes by fit 39:46 - #5 44:18 - #4 45:58 - #3 50:34 - #2 55:06 - #1 58:10 - How do fit and performance work together? 1:05:24 - Wrap-up

Join David and Matt as they go on a free-wheeling conversation on where running is headed. They discuss whether Asian shoe brands are poised for a bigger presence in the US market, whether the trend of new-age foams making their way into daily trainers is a net positive, and which shoe has surprised them most in 2026. They close things out with a debate on where Yomif Kejelcha ranks among the greatest distance runners of all time. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORSEPT10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 0:43 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 32:24 - Are we going to start seeing more Asian shoes in the US? 43:03 - Is the trend of new-age foams in daily trainers a good thing? 51:59 - What shoe has surprised you in 2026? 58:23 - Where does Yomif Kejelcha stand in the greatest distance runners of all time? 1:09:01 - Wrap-up

Nathan, Matt, & David are here for our latest mailbag round. Matt shares some early thoughts on the Altra Vanish Carbon 3 and runs through more shoes currently in testing before diving into the mailbag. They tackle questions on how to actually sense your own running mechanics, what it means for your form to be "right," road shoe recommendations for knee pain while returning to running, and how to find new shoes after coming back from a long injury layoff. Want your mailbag question on the next episode? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code AUGDOR10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:48 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 17:00 - Altra Vanish Carbon 3 first thoughts 21:18 - More testing shoes 35:42 - How to sense your mechanics? 42:10 - How can you know if your form is "right"? 50:34 - Road shoes to help with knee pain while returning to running 56:40 - Finding new shoes after a long injury break 1:02:36 - Wrap-up

Andrea and Matt kick things off with early impressions of the Nike Pegasus Plus 2 before diving into another round of Buy or Sell. They debate whether the New Balance SC Elite v6 is the best super shoe the brand has ever made, whether the Clifton Pro deserves the title of best Clifton, and if the Topo Specter 3 stands as the brand's best shoe yet. Want your buy/sell take on the next episode? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code AUGDOR10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:14 - Nike Pegasus Plus 2 first thoughts 7:22 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 21:10 - Buy or Sell: the SC Elite v6 is the best super shoe New Balance has ever made 30:28 - The Clifton Pro is the best Clifton 35:20 - The Specter 3 is Topo's best shoe 41:46 - The Specter Elite is better than the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper for the marathon 45:14 - ATPU is better than PEBA 49:30 - Rockers are specific to certain foot strikes 1:02:16 - The SC Rebel should replace the Rebel 1:10:08 - Wrap-up

If you've been with us for a while, you know we're big fans of Topo Athletic. They're new releases: Specter 3 and Specter Elite have gotten some big acclaim, and for good reason. But, you might not know about their full line of shoes. Matt, David, and Nathan are here to break down their lineup, from daily trainers, to max cushion shoes, to minimalist options. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code AUGDOR10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 2:04 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 20:50 - A history of Topo Athletic 30:22 - Topo Phantom 4 & Atmos 2 34:36 - Ultrafly 6 & Aura 44:34 - Cyclone 2, Specter 3, Specter Elite 56:40 - Trail models 1:10:44 - Minimalist shoes 1:13:22 - Wrap-up

Our social algorithms are full of quick-fix suggestions from "experts" telling us how this one change to foot strike (or cadence or form, etc) will fix all our pain! But they're often too good to be true. Matt, David, and Nathan do some footstrike mythbusting, starting with a primer on what footstrike actually is and how it factors into injury risk. They work through several persistent myths such as that most elite runners are mid/forefoot strikers, that forefoot striking is inherently more efficient, that changing footstrike is an easy fix for pain and more. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code AUGDOR10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:01 - Reacting to Josh Kerr's new mile world record 11:32 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 25:20 - A primer on footstrike 35:30 - How footstrike influences injury risk 39:36 - Myth: most/all elite runners are mid/forefoot strikers 42:20 - Myth: forefoot strike is more efficient 47:38 - Myth: changing your footstrike is an easy fix for pain reduction 52:04 - Myth: footstrike never changes 55:40 - How footstrike can influence shoe choice 1:06:30 - Wrap-up

Nathan and Matt dig into the mailbag after sharing early thoughts on the New Balance SC Rebel and SC Elite v6 in this week's In For Testing. They cover a wide range of your questions, including whether unworn shoes age in storage, what makes a good all-terrain "safe" shoe, the biomechanical differences between forefoot rockers and toe-spring, and whether it's worth rotating flexible shoes with stiffer, rockered ones, and much more. Want your mailbag question on the next episode? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SUMMERDOCS (for July) and AUGDOR10 (for August) to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:46 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 9:54 - Thoughts on the New Balance SC Rebel 15:32 - New Balance SC Elite v6 21:32 - Do shoes age when stored without being worn? 24:00 - Good all-around, all-terrain "safe" shoes 26:34 - The difference between forefoot rockers and toe-spring, and their biomechanical effects 34:50 - Is it helpful to rotate flexible shoes with stiff, rockered shoes? 40:34 - Does everyone with low arches need stability shoes? 44:46 - Can big toe stiffness cause arch pain? 48:24 - Is there a shoe similar to the New Balance 860? 50:20 - Super shoes with some stability 53:04 - Best shoes with arch support 56:14 - Wrap-up

Matt, David, and Nathan bring bracket-style competition to the podcast, seeding a 16-team field of flagship daily trainers — one from each brand — in an homage to the World Cup that just wrapped up. Tune in to listen to them pit these shoes head-to-head and see who's crowned the champion! We want to know who'd be in your bracket or who your champion would be. Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SUMMERDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:42 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 22:14 - Daily trainers: a bracket face-off 24:40 - #1 Asics Novablast vs. #16 Diadora Cellula 28:30 - #2 Hoka Clifton vs. #15 Mount to Coast R1 33:00 - #3 Saucony Ride vs. #14 Altra Experience Flow 37:16 - #4 New Balance 1080 vs. #13 Topo Phantom 4 41:56 - #5 Nike Pegasus vs. #12 Adidas Supernova Rise 47:50 - #6 Brooks Ghost vs. #11 Skechers AeroBurst 53:12 - #7 Mizuno Waverider vs. #10 Puma Velocity Nitro 56:30 - #8 On Cloudsurfer vs. #9 Salomon Aeroglide 1:01:11 - Quarterfinals 1:07:54 - Semifinals 1:12:44 - The Final 1:18:52 - Wrap-up

Matt and David take on another round of Buy or Sell! They debate whether brands should be creating multiple variants of the same shoe, adding specialty uppers to existing models, spinning off new lines from popular shoes, and making dramatic changes to long-standing favorites. They also weigh in on whether uppers matter more than midsoles before closing out with a couple bonus mailbag questions. Want your buy/sell proposition or mailbag question on the next episode? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SUMMERDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 3:50 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 21:50 - Buy or Sell: Making multiple variants of the same shoe 28:18 - Specialty uppers on existing shoes 33:15 - Uppers are more important than midsoles 36:16 - Creating new shoe models out of popular shoe lines 44:47 - Dramatically changing a long-standing shoe 51:08 - Mailbag: what causes black toenails? 56:14 - Racing shoes to help with SI joint pain 1:06:22 - Wrap-up

Nathan and David team up for a new round of Fact or Fiction, playing myth busters with your latest questions. They weigh in on questions about drop adjustment, cooldowns, gait analysis, training frequency and mileage, whether running builds muscle, and how walk/run intervals stack up against continuous shorter efforts. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SUMMERDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:56 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 19:52 - Fact or Fiction: You can adjust to running in a shoe with an uncomfortable drop 25:34 - Having a cooldown is important 30:28 - Gait analysis is key to becoming a better athlete 34:28 - You need to run at least twice a week to see a benefit 37:44 - You should re-tie your shoes after every run 40:52 - Running builds muscle 42:32 - You need to run at least 40mi per week to finish a marathon 49:06 - Shorter runs where you don't stop are better than walk/run intervals 52:18 - Wrap-up

Episode 300 is here! And Matt, David, and Andrea mark the milestone by taking stock of the best running shoes of 2026 so far. They work through their top picks across every major category — daily trainers, stability and stable neutral shoes, performance trainers, racing shoes, and strength training and trail shoes. We want to hear from you! What are your favorite shoes of the year so far? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SUMMERDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:19 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 15:52 - Categorizing our top shoes of 2026 so far 19:36 - Top Daily Trainer 29:02 - Top stability/stable neutral 40:52 - Top performance trainers 53:20 - Top racing shoes 1:06:56 - Top strength training & trail shoes 1:14:32 - Wrap-up

David, Matt, and Nathan dig into the mailbag, fielding questions on stable neutral shoe picks, footwear options for runners dealing with bunions, trail stability shoes, and what the evidence says about compression for tendinopathies. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORJUNE10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:30 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 22:18 - Current favorite stable neutral shoes 30:22 - Running & walking shoes for dealing with bunions 41:12 - Trail stability shoes 49:52 - Does compression help tendinopathies? 1:00:32 - Wrap-up

David and BJ count down their top five max cushion shoes of all time, breaking down what earns a shoe a spot on the list and what sets the top pick apart from the rest of the field, including some deep cuts and new favorites. What are your favorite max cushion shoes? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! We're thrilled to announce our apparel collaboration with Rabbit! The collection includes the EZ Tee SS, EZ Tee LS, and a unisex Go-to Hoodie. Pre-sale is open June 3–June 17th, with gear shipping the week of July 6th. Check it out at https://www.runinrabbit.com/collections/doctors-of-running. Note that the monthly discount code cannot be applied to collab items. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORJUNE10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:42 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 17:39 - #5 Max Cushion Shoe 24:02 - #4 29:43 - #3 36:10 - #2 42:48 - #1 Max Cushion Shoe of all time 49:10 - Wrap-up

Nathan, Matt, and David play a round of This or That, pitting mainline trainers against their premium counterparts to decide which they'd actually pick. They work through head-to-head matchups across several major brands — Asics, Brooks, Saucony, Hoka, Puma, and On — weighing the real-world differences in ride, value, and who each shoe is really for. We're thrilled to announce our apparel collaboration with Rabbit! The collection includes the EZ Tee SS, EZ Tee LS, and a unisex Go-to Hoodie. Pre-sale is open thru June 17th, with gear shipping the week of July 6th. Check it out at https://www.runinrabbit.com/collections/doctors-of-running. Note that the monthly discount code cannot be applied to collab items. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORJUNE10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 0:31 - Rabbit X DOR gear! 3:29 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 23:24 - This or That: Asics Novablast 6 or Superblast 3? 34:12 - Brooks Glycerin 23 or Glycerin Max 2 39:06 - Saucony Ride 19 or Paramount Max 44:36 - Triumph 24 or Paramount Max 48:40 - Hoka Clifton 10 or Hoka Skyward X 2 51:24 - Puma Velocity Nitro 4 or Magmax 2 54:30 - On Cloudmonster 3 or Cloudmonster 3 Hyper 1:00:08 - Wrap-up

Nathan, Matt, and David open with an update on David's post-Boston rehab before diving into the mailbag. They field a range of footwear and injury questions, covering shoe options for Achilles tendinopathy and medial knee OA, alternatives to high-drop shoes, road-to-trail crossover picks, and lightweight daily trainer recommendations. They also help a listener find a replacement for the Brooks Hyperion 2. We're thrilled to announce our apparel collaboration with Rabbit! The collection includes the EZ Tee SS, EZ Tee LS, and a unisex Go-to Hoodie. Pre-sale is open June 3–June 17th, with gear shipping the week of July 6th. Check it out at https://www.runinrabbit.com/collections/doctors-of-running. Note that the monthly discount code cannot be applied to collab items. Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code DORJUNE10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:16 - David's rehab after Boston 12:04 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 27:46 - Replacements for the Brooks Hyperion 2 33:50 - Shoe suggestions for dealing with Achilles Tendinopathy 38:34 - Alternatives to high-drop shoes 45:42 - Favorite road-to-trail shoes 49:26 - Dealing with medial knee OA 54:48 - Lightweight daily trainer/non-plated super shoes suggestions 1:02:06 - Wrap-up

Matt and Andrea work through a range of shoes they've been testing, sharing thoughts on the direction Saucony and Brooks are heading, Andrea's track spike adventures, and a mix of recent pickups including the Asics Kayano 33 and On Cloudmonster Hyper LS. The conversation then shifts to a broader question: whether the way we currently categorize running shoes has gotten overcomplicated, using the Brooks Hyperion Max 4, Mizuno Hyperwarp Pro, Saucony Endorphin Pro 5, Endorphin Azura, and more as jumping-off points for discussion. What do you think? How do you categorize shoes? We'd love feedback! Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code MAYDOCS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 6:18 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 10:34 - Thoughts on Saucony's new shoes 16:42 - Thoughts on the direction Brooks is going 23:36 - Andrea's track spike adventures 26:31 - Asics Kayano 33, On Cloudmonster Hyper LS, and others 36:00 - Rethinking how we categorize shoes 40:54 - Where does the Brooks Hyperion Max 4 fit? 47:16 - Mizuno Hyperwarp Pro 50:02 - Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 54:02 - Endorphin Azura 59:08 - Brooks Hyperion Max v1 1:01:04 - Wrap-up

Nathan, Matt, and David put a series of common running beliefs to the test in a round of Fact or Fiction. They dig into questions about training, biomechanics, and gear — weighing the evidence on everything from compression socks and treadmill incline settings to warmup routines, arch support, and what the research actually says about running efficiency and injury risk. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code MAYDOCS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:14 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 13:00 - Thoughts on Brooks shoes & perceived midsole softness 25:08 - Fact or Fiction? You should stretch before running 31:00 - Compression socks are good for foot movement and muscles 33:18 - Putting a treadmill at 1% incline will emulate road running 39:16 - Most overtraining injuries come down to nutrition 45:56 - Speedwork is still good to do for senior runners 47:40 - Having high arches means you need arch support & people with flat feet need barefoot shoes 53:44 - Skipping warmup & cooldown increases injury risk 58:14 - Running with a soft landing makes you more efficient & reduces injury risk

Matt and David work through a packed shoe rotation before David shares a detailed account of his Boston Marathon experience. On the footwear side, they cover the Brooks Hyperion Max 4, Saucony Triumph 24, Saucony Hurricane 26, Under Armour Velocity Distance, Brooks Ghost 18, a race review of the Saucony Endorphin Elite 3, and more. Then David takes listeners through the full Boston weekend — from the days leading up to the race through race day and the aftermath. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code MAYDOCS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 4:18 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 9:42 - Brooks Hyperion Max 4 13:28 - Saucony Triumph 24 21:16 - Saucony Hurricane 26 24:58 - Upcoming trail shoes 28:28 - Under Armour Velocity Distance 30:52 - Brooks Ghost 18 34:00 - Should new runners start with budget shoes? 39:40 - Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 race review 46:14 - Adidas Terrex Agravic 4 49:08 - David's Boston recap: weekend leading to the race 1:07:44 - Boston Marathon Monday 1:21:42 - Post-race 1:28:22 - Wrap-up

Matt and Andrea are back for another Between Two Feet episode, comparing notes on a trio of high-performance shoes. They work through the ASICS Superblast 3, the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4, and the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, sharing how each shoe performs across different foot types and running styles. Along the way they dig into the nuances of foam softness and sole flare, how mechanics & foot strike change how you might perceive a shoe, and make the case for why brands diversifying their racing shoe lineups is a win for runners. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code MAYDOCS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 18:14 - ASICS Superblast 3 26:44 - Foam softness & sole flare 37:42 - Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4 45:58 - The benefit of brands diversifying their racing shoe lineups 55:41 - On Cloudmoster 3 Hyper 1:04:02 - Wrap-up

Nathan, Matt, and David open with their reactions to the London Marathon before diving into the mailbag. They field questions on finding the right walking shoes for knee pain, navigating how to get get into physical therapy specializing in runners, balancing strength training alongside a running schedule and more. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code MAYDOCS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:52 - London Marathon reaction 13:30 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 28:12 - Ideal walking shoes for knee pain 36:28 - How to get into PT for runners 43:24 - Favorite fun easy day shoes 49:34 - Balancing strength training & running 58:18 - Wrap-up

Matt and David are back with a new installment of Buy or Sell. They debate the merits of data versus hands-on testing in shoe reviews and make the case that the era of 35-39mm being considered max cushion is officially over. They also look ahead at where the industry is heading — from the coming wave of 50mm+ shoes to a future with three tiers of racing footwear and much more. Want your debate featured on the next Buy or Sell? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SPRINGDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:40 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 10:04 - Buy or sell: getting rid of water cups at races 14:28 - Using data over testing for reviews 21:18 - Squeezing midsoles & bending shoes to determine how they feel 25:04 - Using durometer to determine midsole performance 29:16 - 35-39mm is no longer max cushion 32:54 - We will have many 50mm+ shoes in the next two years 37:12 - Brands will start to have 3 tiers of racing shoes 44:22 - Super trainers are better than training companion shoes 50:54 - Super shoes decrease injury risk 53:19 - Super shoes are bad for the Achilles tendon 1:01:38 - Wrap-up

Matt, Nathan, and David lace up for a deep dive into the biomechanics of walking and what they mean for footwear. They break down how the foot moves through the gait cycle, what characteristics make a shoe well-suited for walking, and how details like heel bevel factor into the equation. The crew also rounds up their top brand picks for walking shoes and works through how to match common injuries with the right walking footwear. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Rabbit is the presenting partner of our podcast. You can use code SPRINGDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can't be combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:14 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 20:28 - An intro to the mechanics of walking 27:18 - How the foot moves while you walk 34:18 - Characteristics of shoes that are good for walking 47:48 - How does the heel bevel effect walking shoes 49:16 - Top 3 brands for good walking shoes 54:32 - Pairing common injuries with walking footwear 1:06:32 - Wrap-up

Nathan, David, and Matt dig into the mailbag to tackle your questions. They compare the On Cloudmonster Hyper 3 and Saucony Endorphin Azura and help a listener find a road shoe similar to the Puma Deviate Nitro Trail. They also get into the clinical side of things, offering shoe recommendations for ITB-related knee pain, upper-body strength training for runners, and how to navigate marathon training when illness gets in the way. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code SPRINGDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 3:24 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 24:16 - On Cloudmonster Hyper 3 vs. Saucony Endorphin Azura 30:08 - Shoe suggestion for ITB-related knee pain 38:10 - Upper-body strength training suggestions 43:08 - Brooks Adrenaline vs. ASICS Kayano vs. Mizuno Wave Inspire 50:12 - Similar road shoes to the Puma Deviate Nitro Trail 54:52 - Marathon training while fighting illnesses 1:02:10 - Wrap-up

Matt is joined by Dr. Iain Hunter of Brigham Young University's Exercise Science department for an evidence-based deep dive into the science of super shoes. Drawing on his own research, Dr. Hunter explores the wide variability in how runners respond to plated footwear and tackles the practical questions runners are asking — whether super shoes are right for everyone, how to find the right fit, and how to integrate them wisely into training. They also dig into what the research says about tendon health, trail super shoes, and maintaining foot and calf strength. Dr. Hunter completed a mathematics education degree with a coaching minor at BYU followed by a Master's of Education in coaching. His interests in biomechanics grew during his master's degree which led him to continue education with a PhD in Health and Human Performance at Oregon State University. He teaches biomechanics while working with USA Track and Field applying his research to elite distance runners. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code SPRINGDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:20 - Dr. Iain Hunter's background 6:48 - How the results of Iain's studies have impacted his training 11:20 - How do people's responses to super shoes vary? 21:54 - Does everyone need a super shoe? How should they find the right one for them? 25:48 - Advice on training in super shoes 30:42 - How super shoe effect tendon health 41:34 - What's the research on trail super shoes? 45:10 - How to maintain foot & calf strength 50:28 - What's coming next for Dr. Hunter's research? 53:02 - Adapting to super shoes 57:44 - Finding Dr. Hunter's work online 59:16 - Wrap-up

The beginning of 2026 has been absolutely loaded with new shoe releases, and David and Andrea are here to pick their Top 3 (plus a few honorable mentions) for the year so far, including picks from On, Saucony, Mizuno and more. Also, David's running Boston with Adidas in just a few short weeks! Tune in to hear about his training and mindset leading up to the big day. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORMARCH10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:26 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 13:56 - Our favorite shoes of 2026 so far: honorable mentions 22:34 - #3 31:52 - #2 36:30 - #1 41:14 - David's leadup to the Boston Marathon with Adidas 53:46 - David's current training routine 1:01:16 - Lessons learned with training changes 1:10:26 - The differences for Andrea between professional cycling and masters track 1:13:08 - Wrap-up

Weightlifting: runners know it has a myriad of benefits but it can be a struggle to fit it into already full training and life schedules. Matt & Nathan are here to help. They dive into the physiology of how weightlifting actually benefits runners, and how to maximize that benefit, with tips on how to fit it into your running schedule They also discuss their current weight routines and the why behind them. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORMARCH10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:06 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 27:06 - The role of weight lifting for runners 31:22 - Weightlifting myths 41:48 - Matt's routine 48:46 - Nathan's routine 55:34 - Wrap-up

Time to open up our mailbox for your questions! Nathan, Matt, and David join up to tackle questions about recovery runs, compression gear, stable neutral long run shoes, and much more. Want your question answered? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORMARCH10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:04 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 22:46 - Hiking shoes for ankle pathologies 30:38 - The science behind recovery runs & recovery run shoes 41:32 - Are there any benefits to compression gear? 46:16 - Stable neutral long run shoes 52:18 - Lightweight or high cushion a priority? 1:00:18 - Is it possible to run a marathon and then run a half the next weekend? 1:06:18 - Wrap-up

Hoka's making big strides in 2026 with a big updated to their top-tier distance racing shoe: the Cielo X1 3.0. Matt is joined by Rebekah Broe, Senior Director of Product Performance Footwear at HOKA, to dive into every detail of the changes. They talk foam composition, midsole geometry, tweaks to the plate and much more! Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORMARCH10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:06 - The origin of the Cielo X1 line 5:26 - How long did development take? 8:26 - How has 3.0's geometry changed from the previous version? 14:34 - Why did the cutouts change? 19:14 - What Hoka sees as the ideal use for this shoe 22:18 - The role of the central groove 27:12 - How has the plate changed? 33:02 - The nature of the midsole foam 39:30 - Upper changes 45:18 - Who does Hoka think this shoe will/won't work for? 49:36 - Wrap-up

On this episode, Andrea is joined by Jennifer St. Jean, an incredibly accomplished masters track runner and high school & collegiate coach. Jen shares insights from her long and decorated masters track career on how to stay healthy, consistent, and competitive as you age. Jen is a mom of 3, she’s coached all ages including high school & college. She’s a researcher at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Her lifetime PRs 1500/800m 4:19/2:08. She runs for Central Park Track Club Tracksmith and is an Alum of UMass Amherst. She’s a multi-time masters national champion and World Indoor Masters Champ in the 1500m. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DOCTORS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:14 - Jenn's running background 8:16 - Tips for transferring from high school to collegiate training 11:32 - The post-collegiate transition 15:24 - Balancing racing and resting 18:44 - Becoming a competitive masters athlete 30:54 - Tips for getting into competitive masters track 36:20 - How has high school/collegiate coaching & training changed over the years? 43:18 - Jenn's biggest tip for the parents of high school runners 46:40 - How training changes over the years 51:04 - Jenn's shoe rotation 1:00:14 - Wrap-up

ASICS is coming in hot as we head into Spring with a big update to one of their most beloved models: the Superblast 3. Nathan and David are joined by Paul Lang (ASICS Global Footwear Senior Product Manager for Performance Running) to talk about all the changes. Version 3 introduces FF Leap, first seen in the Metaspeed series, a re-tooled upper, and much more. Tune in to hear the behind the scenes story of the Superblast 3! Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DOCTORS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 3:06 - What was the vision behind the Superblast 3 5:22 - How does Asics test their shoes? 11:34 - Midsole origins and design 15:48 - David's comparitive experiences between the Superblast 2 and 3 20:14 - Why no plate? Why the specific stack height? 25:12 - Upper design 33:44 - Changes to the outsole 35:02 - The "Blast" line as a whole 40:32 - If you could pick one "Blast" shoe, which one are you picking? 45:04 - What's coming next for the Blast line 47:22 - Wrap-up

If we have a favorite phrase, you know it's going to be "it depends." Well, not when we've got a round of "This or That"! Nathan, Matt, and David put themselves on the hot seat to tackle your This or That ideas. Super trainers or plated trainers? Hot weather or cold weather? Running in a blizzard or running in a hurricane?! Things get a little wild on this one, so tune in! Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DOCTORS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com. Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 3:20 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 21:00 - This or That: true easy day shoe or a do-it-all shoe? 27:16 - Running in frigid cold with shorts, or in heat with long pants? 36:00 - Super trainers or plated performance trainers? 41:02 - Donut mile or beer mile? 45:46 - More fun: 5K training or marathon training? 49:52 - Marathon race route: out & back or a loop? 51:26 - Achilles tear or ACL tear? 52:54 - Stability racing shoes or stability trainers? 55:36 - Run in a tropical storm or run in a blizzard? 1:01:34 - For long-term health: super shoes or no super shoes? 1:05:06 - Seattle Seahawks or New England Patriots? 1:06:20 - Wrap-up

Time for a little DOR myth busting! Nathan, David, and Matt team up to take a look at some user-submitted running "truths", to shed some light on whether they're fact or fiction. Does your cadence need to be at least 180spm? Is it ok to run in super shoes if you're "slow"? How much cushion is too much? We'd love to do more of these, so hit us up with your running myths at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DOCTORS10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com/. Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:14 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 13:14 - Fact or Fiction? If you need orthotics once, you need them forever 25:00 - Most runs should be Zone 2 + 80/20 training 33:14 - Running cadence should be at least 180 steps per minute 38:50 - More cushion is better 44:04 - Running is bad for your knees 51:04 - Barefoot shoes cause injuries 57:30 - Super shoes don't work for slower runners 1:03:08 - Soft surfaces reduce injury risk 1:09:30 - All shoes can be trail shoes if you try hard enough 1:12:48 - Wrap-up

When we talk shoes it's almost always midsoles: foams, plates, geometries, hype. We often forget the uppers of our shoes, and problems with them can make or break the running experience. Matt, David, and Nathan get together to talk about their three biggest pet-peeves when it comes to shoe fit. Heel rubbing, too much padding, narrow forefoots, and more. What are your fit pet-peeves? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to introduce Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORJAN10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com/. Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:16 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 26:31 - What can make or break a shoe's upper 31:03 - Low forefoot volume and width 32:39 - Not enough room where the midfoot & forefoot transition 35:13 - Overly tapered toe boxes 41:25 - Too early of a taper 43:05 - Overly plush & padded uppers 46:37 - Tongues that are either too thick or too thin 51:37 - Not enough security in the midfoot 54:11 - Heel seams that cause rubbing 57:51 - Heel counters that angle into the Achilles 1:02:31 - Wrap-up

Our teams loves answering your questions, so here we are to dig into the mailbag! Nathan, Andrea, and David team up and talk to talk shoes, training, and injuries. They discuss advice for running with arthritis and neuromas, the best wet-weather shoes, non-plated speed-training shoes, and much more. Want your question on the next mailbag? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ We're thrilled to introduce Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORJAN10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com/. Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:48 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 16:26 - Advice for running degenerative joint disease and arthritis 25:00 - Good shoes for wet/muddy parkruns 30:34 - Does toe spring effect hyper extension? 40:06 - Brannock size vs. running shoe size 44:46 - Non-plated speed shoes 49:14 - Advice for children dealing with Sever's Disease 54:26 - Shoe options for training with a neuroma 1:00:46 - Wrap-up

We're heading into the new year with a new round of Buy or Sell, one of our favorite podcast games. If you don't know the drill, we force ourselves to decide whether we buy or sell an idea, shoe, treatment, etc. Today, Nathan, David, and Matt debate the Saucony Endorphin Azura (Shift 3 replacement??), the venerable ASICS Nimbus, whether runner's high really exists, and much more. Want your idea on the next edition of Buy or Sell? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com! We're thrilled to introduce Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code DORJAN10 to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com/. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 4:26 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 14:20 - Buy/sell: Saucony Endorphin Azura 24:34 - The Azura as a Shift 3 replacement 29:18 - ASICS Nimbus 28 is better than the 27 35:54 - The Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 is a super shoe 44:48 - Running a marathon or ultra in 2026 53:12 - Running doubles 1:01:50 - Runner's high is real 1:11:25 - Wrap-up

Nathan and Matt are joined by a very special guest, Dr. Karin Sibernagel, Professor at University of Delaware, to discuss the latest research about tendon anatomy, injury, and rehabilitation. Karin shares her extensive experience, both scientific and practical as a clinician, about everything tendon, especially the Achilles. They dive into the specific anatomy of tendons, why they so often get injured, and what you can do to rehabilitate on your own. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:32 - Karin's background & research 6:30 - An overview of the anatomy of tendons 10:40 - How the muscle, bone, & tendon work together when in movement 14:18 - How to analyze how ready the calf complex is for running 21:18 - They physiology of tendon pain 24:46 - Risk factors for tendon injuries 27:24 - Rehabbing tendon pain 31:08 - Why heavy loading rebuilds tendons 36:38 - Timelines for tendon healing 38:32 - The results of Karin's latest research 48:52 - How useful is shockwave therapy? 54:24 - The role of shoes in achilles tendon pain 59:28 - The effect of consistent super shoe use on tendon health 1:08:54 - Wrap-up

In this final part of our series meeting with brands to highlight their updates in the next year, Andrea is joined by Russ Stevens & Carolyn Todd from Topo Athletic. They highlight the big redesign to the Specter 3 featuring an all new A-TPU midsole. They'r also bringing updates to the Atmos, Ultrafly, trail favorites like the Terraventure, and many more. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:28 - What makes Topo tick 6:08 - Specter 3 10:47 - Atmos 2 15:34 - Ultrafly 6 19:12 - Aura 2 22:48 - Connect 28:28 - Ultraventure 5 31:18 - Terraventure 5 33:56 - Future Cyclone updates 38:45 - What the next couple years have in store for Topo 43:54 - Wrap-up

As we continue our in-depth looks at upcoming 2026 shoes with different brands, David is joined by Luca Ciccone, Cory Hoffman, and Katie Pyle of Saucony, who's coming up big in 2026 with updates and new releases. The Endorphin line gets a new member with the Azura, a plateless PWRRUN PB trainer, and updates to the Endorphin Pro and Elite. Looking for max cushion? The Triumph and Hurricane are getting big updates, and they'll be joined by the new Paramount Max. Listen in to hear about even more of what they have coming next year. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:50 - Endorphin Azura 8:20 - Endorphin Pro 5 14:42 - Endorphin Elite 3 20:56 - Paramount Max 29:32 - Triumph 24 35:02 - Hurricane 26 41:40 - Updates to the Ride & Guide 44:54 - A breakdown of all of Saucony’s foams 50:38 - Wrap-up

We're here with the second episode in a series of interviews with running shoe companies as they show off what they've got in store for 2026! Matt is joined by long time friends of the pod, Tina Danforth and Evan Day from Brooks. They give us a look into Brooks's unique approach to developing shoes for walkers, casual runners, elites, and everyone in between. They walk us through the new Glycerin FLex, Glycerin Max 2, Ghost Trail, Hyperion Elite 6, and many more. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com This episode is sponsored by RunDNA. We love the Certified Endurance Running Course, designed for anyone that wants to deepen their understanding of running and training. It’s not only deeply scientific, but also practical and applicable. Over 10,000 people around the world have enjoyed this course. If you want to check it out, go to ⁠RunDNA.com⁠ and use code DOR20 to get 20% off. Chapters 0:00 - Intro 4:38 - How Brooks approaches shoe "experiences" 12:24 - Glycerin Flex 18:52 - Updates the the rest of the Glycerin line 21:34 - The Ghost line updates 28:02 - Updates to the Beast 31:20 - Updates to the Hyperion Elite 36:50 - Hyperion Max 41:22 - Trail shoe updates 45:40 - The new Revel Max 58:16 - Wrap-up

With 2026 right around the corner, we've got a series of conversations with running brand to take a deep dive on the shoes they've got coming up next year. Andrea is joined by Mizuno's Shunsuke Aoi, Global Product Line Manager to take a look at their brand new Hyperwarp line of racing shoes (Pure, Pro, and Elite). They also discuss what we can expect to see in the updates to the fan-favorite Neo Zen and Neo Vista models. Read our Hyperwarp Pure review here, and keep an eye out for reviews of the Elite & Pro models: https://www.doctorsofrunning.com/2025/12/mizuno-hyperwarp-pure-review-2026.html Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:06 - An overview of Mizuno's new racing line 6:42 - The development of the Hyperwarp line 8:32 - Hyperwarp Pure 11:26 - Hyperwarp Elite 16:20 - Plate design 23:20 - Hyperwarp Pro 29:06 - The future of the Rebellion line 30:42 - What's next for the Neo line 38:28 - The future of the Wave Rider 41:16 - What 2026 holds for Mizuno 45:36 - Wrap-up

As we approach the end of 2025, we take some time to recap the year in running. David, Matt, and Nathan team up to talk about their favorite shoe brands, most innovative shoes, most disappointing shoes, what's on the horizon for 2026, and more. What do you think? What were your highlights and lowlights for 2025? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:51 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 21:48 - Top shoe brand of 2025 28:30 - Brand to look out for in 2026 32:34 - Best shoe updates of the year 37:38 - Most innovative shoe 44:52 - Biggest disappointment of the year 54:34 - Favorite racing moment of the year 1:01:47 - Wrap-up

It's time for a mailbag round where we dig through our emails and DMs to answer your questions! Matt & David team up to tackle questions about heel drop, stable-neutral speed shoes, treadmill shoes, how they'd build a rotation, and more. Want your question answered on the next mailbag? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com. Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/ Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com LEVER Movement⁠ is portable and effective body weight support systems. Our products, including the LEVER System that allow users to reduce their effective body weight during exercise ( from 0 to 45 pounds off). This reduction is achieved through our bungee system that redistribute a portion of the user’s body weight, making exercises less strenuous and more manageable. LEVER Movement is committed to revolutionizing the way you train and recover, providing you with the tools to achieve your fitness goals with greater confidence and reduced risk. Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:32 - In for Testing: Powered by Skratch Labs 8:40 - Is the stated heel drop the same no matter the size of the shoe? 12:00 - Shoe suggestions with a heel rocker, but mild forefoot rocker 17:30 - Shoe & exercise options for toe flexor pain 22:48 - Toe numbness in Vomero Plus 26:30 - Book recommendations 30:08 - Wide options similar to the original Saucony Tempus 36:16 - Choosing shoes for treadmill running 39:46 - How would you build a 3, 2 or 1 shoe rotation? 48:26 - Wrap-up