RunTex has recently added a new brand, UK Gear Running Shoes, to our in-store and online store line-up. In order to give you a virtual “feel” for the new product, we lined up the UK Gear PT-03 SC (Structured Cushioning) with another one of our mild stability shoes, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS-7 for a comparison.
Appearance
The UK Gear PT-03 SC’s design reflects UK Gear’s background in physical training for military and first response with its modern styling. Most of the upper is a light gray color, but the area around the midsole and the midsole itself is a darker color. Similar to the Adrenaline, the PT-03 has bright colored highlights in the upper and outsole. The PT-03 SC also highlights its medial posting with a darker color than the rest of the midsole.
This Brooks Adrenaline (along with most color variations) features a traditional running shoe look. It has a light colored midsole and upper with bright colored highlights in the Brooks logo, around the heel and the outsole. In the medial side, the denser material used for stability is indicated with a darker color.
Technology
Both Brooks and UK Gear tout a number of technologies used in these shoes to ensure a good fit, responsiveness, and durability.
UK Gear PT-03 SC
- Luxury Fully Padded Tongue: A thick padded tongue with laces loops that ensure the tongue remains in place.
- Skeletal Support Struts: Upper attachments which enhance upper stability and fit.
- U-Heel: Tightly shaped heel which protects the Achilles and stabilizes the heel.
- Solite EVA Midsole: An advanced EVA midsole material which allows for a very stable and durable midsole too much weight.
- Duo Mass Compound: A second density EVA compound to provide medial stability and correct overpronation.
- S&S Plates: Strengthening and stabilizing polyurethane medial support plates which add torsional support and durability to the medial EVA midsole.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS-7
- Comfort Collar Design: Snug ankle cushioning which provides molded support.
- Element: Lightweight upper material with microfiber construction to provide weather protection without sacrificing breathability, durability or comfort.
- Hydroflow: Fluid units in the heel and forefoot to enhance midsole shock-absorption and cushioning.
- MoGo: A new midsole compound with a dramatic increase in cushioning and durability.
- Progressive Diagonal Rollbar: A dual-density medial post to control overpronation and provide a smooth transition from heel to forefoot.
Fit
While both the Brooks Adrenaline GTS-7 and UK Gear PT-03 SC are moderate stability shoes they target runners with different needs.
The Adrenaline is targeted exclusively at runners with mild overpronation, and as a result has a lightweight and flexible feel of a traditional running shoe with medial midsole support. It is exceptional in this regard providing a good balance of cushioning and support, and as a result is one of the most popular shoes in this category.
The PT-03, on the other hand, is very well suited for mixed running activities such as running with circuits or calisthenics and aggressive trail running, or for people who need support and durablility. Starting from a deep heel and supportive heel your foot will be held tight even with lateral movement or uneven terrain.
Other Information
UK Gear is a British company that is beginning to spread roots in the American market. Originally focused on providing athletic solutions to military and first responders, and the company is the chosen supplier of performance footwear to the UK, US and German militaries.
For more technical information on the PT-03 SC, see UK Gear’s tech specs (339 kb PDF) http://ukgear.com/products/pdf/TechZone-PT03SC-eng.pdf.
Brooks is a running-dedicated shoe, clothing and accessory company. With the assistance of biomechanics professionals, engineers, industry scientists and runners of all abilities, Brooks ensures the creation of products to assist people in all of their running aspirations.
For more technical information on the Adrenaline GTS-7, see Brooks’ tech specs [link] (501 kb PDF) http://www.brooksrunning.com/simg/230570.pdf.
