A major upgrade from the T4 Racer, Brooks Running’s latest elite lightweight racing shoe features an eye-catching design and updated fit for workouts, or races up to a half marathon. One early adopter of the T5 Racer, RunTex founder Paul Carrozza described the shoe as the best available for people who are able to run in a neutral performance running shoe.
Fit
The Brooks T5 Racer has a comfortable sock-like feel based on its construction from upper down to midsole. The flexible mesh upper with its distinct styling hugs the foot. Integrating form and function, synthetic overlays hold the foot in place while still allowing for a great degree of breathability. Like many racing shoes, however, it is a bit narrow but is flexible enough to accommodate slightly wider feet. As Carozza commented, ““It has the best combination of lightweight cushioning and freedom of the foot. It is better than the Nike Free because the upper is more conventional [and provides more support].”
The T5 Racer has a forward angling that emphasizes the toe-off phase of the gait. Despite a thin midsole which really allows the foot to “feel” the road, the shoe feels durable and protective. A combination of a substantial EVA sockliner and fluid Hydroflow cushioning in the heel makes the shoe comfortable from heel to toe.
Technical Features
The T5 Racer achieves its lightweight, durable and comfortable fit due to Brooks’ high-end technical construction:
- Lightweight and flexible EVA midsole
- Hydroflow ST in the heel, providing lightweight shock absorption and cushioning
- Hyper-Pod configuration to set the foot up in an efficient, balanced position from heel strike to toe-off
- HPR durable rubber outsole and high abrasion EVA in the forefoot
- Breathable air mesh upper with micro suede and synthetic overlay
- Molded EVA sockliner
While the T5 Racer only comes in men’s sizes, it will fit many women at 1.5 sizes smaller than what you usually wear.
For more technical information, see the Brooks technical chart: http://www.brooksrunning.com/simg/184401.pdf
