5 Minute Review – adidas adizero Takumi Ren 2

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The Takumi series of shoes is designed with direct input from Master Craftsman, Hitoshi Mimura.

The original Takumi Ren boasted the use of premium materials in the upper (a different suede from all other adizero shoes) with adidas’ Torsion & Sprintframe systems blended into an outsole with a (claimed) 4mm heel drop.

205g for a US 8.5
205g for a US 8.5

The new version of the Takumi Ren comes in at the same weight as it’s predecessor.  My size US 8.5 weighed 205g, a little lighter than many of the other lightweight trainers from other brands.  And yes, the Takumi Ren 2 remains the ‘training’ model of the Takumi series.

Similar outsole to the first generation Takumi Ren. Minor difference in the tread pattern
Similar outsole to the first generation Takumi Ren. Minor difference in the tread pattern

With little to no information on the Takumi Ren (in English, anyway) available, I’m going to guess that they retained the same heel drop for the Ren 2.  I tried both pairs on and it’s hard to tell them apart.  That having been said, it seems that the outsole unit has remained fairly unchanged – the Takumi Ren 2 are close to ground, responsive and lightly cushioned.  While the Ren 2 are no where near as stiff as the adios 2, you get plenty of return from them and you’ll definitely be trotting along with a spring in your step.

Lightweight mesh upper is thinner than on the original
Lightweight mesh upper is thinner than on the original

The biggest difference in the new Takumi Ren seems to be in the upper.  The lightweight mesh is thinner and more breathable than before.  In fact, it is reminiscent of the Takumi Sen.  The upper has taken on a bit more seamless technology especially around the toe box, so leaving your socks at home when you’re running in these will not be a problem.  The more minimalist upper does have a trade off though.  Compared to the original, the Ren 2 feel more comfortable with it’s soft, supple upper.  However, even with what looks like a similar heel cup, the Ren 2 does not lock the foot in as securely.  I experienced a small amount of heel lift in the Ren 2 where there was none before.  This was not a big deal as I appreciated the additional comfort and a simple re-lacing of the shoe got the job done.

IMG_0926
Pretty Sweet.

The Takumi Ren 2 feels like a good update.  Personally, I am glad they went for a slightly more minimalist feel with this one.  It makes the Takumi Ren 2 feel like a faster shoe that you would be happy to race in, but still has a bit more cushioning than a real racing flat.  The Ren 2 is true to size and has a generous amount of space in the toe box.  Experienced runners will like the Ren 2 for their faster sessions and tempo runs especially.

The Takumi Ren 2 retails for $199 and is available now in sizes US 6.5 – 10.5.

This is a limited release so please email us at info@wemakerunningcool.com or call 64567868 to reserve a pair.

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Fitbar Your Way to Better Performance

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If you aren’t using a foam roller as part of your regular training regime, it’s not too late to start now!

Self myofascial release is an athlete’s best friend and helps keep your body in tiptop condition.

Use the Fitbar before your workouts to get the muscles warmed up or post-workout to jump start your recovery.

Low Density bars
Ironbar – Medium Density
Rawbar – High Density

The complete range of Fitbar rollers is available now!

Deal of the Week

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Deal of the Week 

Cervelo S2 (2014)

Now: $3850 (Usual Price: $4400)

Size: 48cm

Qty: Only 1 pc available

S2 105 10spd
Get to the finish faster!
  • Fork
    Cervélo All-Carbon, Tapered S2 Fork
  • Headset
    FSA IS2 1-1/8 x 1-3/8
  • Seatpost
    Cervélo Carbon, Aero
  • Rear Derailleur
    Shimano 105 5700 10 spd
  • Front Derailleur
    Shimano 105 5700 10 spd
  • Shifters
    Shimano 105 5700 10 spd
  • Brake Calipers
    FSA Gossamer Pro
  • Bottom Bracket
    BBright™ PF-30
  • Crankset
    FSA Gossamer BBright™ 50/34
  • Handlebar
    3T Ergonova
  • Stem
    3T ARX
  • Saddle
    Selle Royal Seta
  • Cassette
    Shimano Tiagra 4600 10 spd 11-25
  • Chain
    Shimano Tiagra 4600 10 spd
  • Wheels
    Shimano R501
  • Tires
    Vittoria Rubino Pro 150 tpi 700x23c

To reserve or enquire, please email info@wemakerunningcool.com or give us a ring at 64567868.

New Stuff Update

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We finally received the new shoes for Fall/Winter 2014!

The Mizuno Wave Hitogami has a new cool, blue colourway.  The Hitogami has been super popular this season.  It is a neutral lightweight trainer that offers a touch of support thanks to Mizuno’s proprietary Wave Plate in the outsole.  Enough cushioning for runners to easily tackle distances up to 21km (or further), but with the responsiveness that you would want in a race day shoe.

Sorry ladies, the local distributor for Mizuno dropped the women’s Wave Hitogami this season.  We’re still trying to get our hands on some, so fingers crossed!

The Wave Hitogami retails for $169.

The much anticipated Saucony Kinvara 5 also finally reaches our shores!  Well, the men’s model at least.  The ladies’ K5 is slated to be available in early October.

The K5 is latest iteration of Saucony’s beloved 4mm heel drop lightweight trainer.  The K5 sees a change in the upper from the K4 (cue the cheers & applause).  The K5 has a softer, breathable mesh that translates to a slightly wider fit in the toe box.  The outsole has seen the introduction of a few more spots of high durability rubber in those high wear areas for improved durability.  What might split the Kinvara lovers is the fact that the K5 seems a bit stiffer than the previous versions.  While runner’s that gravitate to the Kinvara for it’s ‘natural’ feel might be slightly disappointed, I think the perceived increase in support will encourage more runners to pick up the K5 for it’s increased versatility.

The K5 retails for $159.

Last but not least, the guys at Vamos have released another 3 models of their very eye-catching socks.

The “Maria”, right most in the picture, is women’s specific.

All products are available in store.  See you soon!

5 Minute Review – Saucony Kinvara 5

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Well, it’s been a a little quiet on shoe front these few months.  There haven’t been a lot of new releases, but with Fall/Winter, hopefully your feet will be in for a treat.

This afternoon, we received the new Saucony Kinvara 5 (K5)!  As you know, we’ve always been rather fond of the Kinvara series so it will be interesting to see how this new model stacks up against its predecessors.  

men's US 9 - 220g
men’s US 9 – 220g

Once you slip your foot into the K5, you can tell straight away that it is a comfortable shoe.  Though it is built on the same last as the K4, the K5 uses a more flexible mesh in the upper.  As a result, the toe box feels wider and much less restrictive.  The K5 sports a re-designed Flexfilm overlay and the new Pro Lock System that is supposed to help lock down your midfoot even more.  I don’t lace my shoes up that tight while running so admittedly, I didn’t feel the full benefit of the Pro Lock System.  I did experiment with the lacing after and if you did you laces up tight, the Pro Lock definitely holds your midfoot in place.  The heel counter has been redesigned and while it is reportedly a tad higher, the softer material around the collar felt super plush and I don’t see it being an issue in the long run.

Slightly re-designed outsole and perhaps more stability on the lateral side?
Slightly re-designed outsole and perhaps more stability on the lateral side?

The K5 has the same profile as the K4 but it does look slightly more built up than before, though the weight remains unchanged.  High wear areas have received a bit more attention but the grooves throughout the outsole don’t look as deep as before.  After a short gander on the treadmill, my initial feeling is that the K5 feels less flexible than the K4.  It’s not uncomfortable, but it does seem like a bit of a departure from the previous iterations.  While the runners that took to the Kinvara for it’s more minimalist appeal might be disappointed, I think this opens up the Kinvara to a much larger group of runners.  Slightly firmer but still smooth on transition, more runners will be tempted to slowly introduce the K5 as an alternative for their long runs.

A little reminiscent of the Nike's Dynamic Flywire system?
A little reminiscent of the Nike’s Dynamic Flywire system?

Overall, the K5 looks to have widened it’s appeal to the masses.  The more generous toe box, improved durability, cushier upper and perceived increase in stability make this an easy shoe for runners to transition to from their traditional daily trainers.  The blend of a low heel drop (for the midfoot strikers) with ample cushioning in a lightweight package is still very sought after.  There might be other competitors in this category nowadays, but with the Kinvara 5, Saucony continues to secure their position at the front of the pack.

Bright enough?
Bright enough?

The Saucony Kinvara 5 (men’s) is available now and retails for $159.  It is available in the above two colours.

Vamos – Embrace the Socks!

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We’re very happy that you can now get your Vamos socks here at TRG!  

Vamos performance socks are made by athletes for athletes. The perfect combination of Nylon, TECHNICOOL, and Spandex keep your active feet dry, and your friends at bay.

Best part is they are available in a range of awesome designs, with more to come!  The current models fit Men’s US 8-12 or Women’s US 9.5+

Callate
Callate
Estrella
Estrella
Tormenta
Tormenta

Time to turn on the style and embrace the socks!

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