The Brooks Ghost 5 is so supremely smooth and impeccably balanced, it’s scary. Brooks took the best of the award-winning Ghost 3 and 4 designs, built in new innovations, and then merged it all with striking colors and patterns.  To get an inside look at the inspiration and design of the new Ghost, we caught up with Brooks Sports Footwear Product Line Manager Jon Teipen.

Q.  The Ghost is a shoe that’s gathered a huge following with runners;  what do you think makes the Ghost unique and stand apart from the competition?

A.  “What makes the Ghost unique and standard apart is that it delivers on so many levels and hits the sweet spot on the benefits runners crave.  It has Brooks’ signature fit that just works for a lot of different feet.  Great forefoot capture and midfoot wrap that secures the foot in place.  It provides an amazing combination of cushioning and energy return creating the desired protection with the right amount of spring that keep the legs fresh.  The heel to toe transition is smooth and effortless and provides a balanced ride that sets the foot up for a very efficient toe-off.  While we don’t categorize the Ghost as a lightweight shoe, the perception is that it does feel light on the foot.  Finally, I’d be lying if I only mentioned the performance qualities of the shoe…we also want this shoe to look great!  From the meshes, to the chevron treatment, to the effects on the materials, to the colors we want to deliver a beautiful shoe that people want to wear.”

Q.  Knowing that the Ghost has a loyal following, what aspects of the design & performance were you looking to keep intact, and what were you looking to change?

A.  “When updating product such as the Ghost, we have a philosophy we call ‘evolution not revolution.’  We want to continually improve each shoe from one season to the next, but we don’t believe in making dramatic changes just for the sake of it.  If the shoe is working and has a loyal following, we want to be loyal to that runner and continue to deliver what they want.  We are constantly looking for new technologies, materials and processes that can be implemented to advance a shoe.  Can we create a closer to foot fit?  Can we make the shoe ride smoother?  Can we improve cushioning? These and other questions we are constantly asking ourselves.  However, if you’ve worn the Ghost before, when you try the updated version, our goal is for it feel and be recognizable as part of the Ghost franchise but even better than its predecessor.”

Q.  Talk about some of the key changes that will be found in the Ghost 5….

A.  “We focused on three attributes to improve the Ghost 5 compared the Ghost 4:  smoother ride, better forefoot flex, and a more adaptable fit.  The biggest change we made was removing the lateral midfoot shank (plastic piece under the midfoot on the outside).  We filled this in with midsole foam and outsole rubber creating consistent ground contact along the entire bottom of the shoe allowing for a smoother transition and more consistent ride.  The next change was putting multi-directional grooves in the forefoot rubber (we call them Omni Grooves) improving forefoot flexibility and promoting a natural forefoot motion.  Finally, we incorporated some stretch into the eyestay creating an adaptable fit that accommodates more foot shapes.”

Q.  Barefoot/Minimalism has been a hot-button topic in running footwear over the last several years; how has that affected how you approach footwear design, both in terms of minimalist product and ‘traditional’ styles like the Ghost?

A.  “We believe the best way to create product is by talking to runners.  When this whole barefoot/minimal trend bubbled up, we wanted to make sure we answered it in a thoughtful way.  So, we went out and spent a lot of time talking to runners about this topic.  There were a ton of take aways and learning’s, but the big revelation was that it is all about the running experience each runner wants his/her shoe to deliver.  Do you prefer to not feel the ground, to have more cushioning and protection, and let the shoe guide your foot or do you want to be closer to the ground, have a lightweight shoe and empower/activate your muscles?  The overarching concept we came away with was Float and Feel.  Neither is right or wrong, but it empowers to the runner to decide what’s preferred and most comfortable.  As a result, we created our PureProject line of shoes which is a collection of lightweight shoes that deliver on the ‘Feel’ experience and we have our Core line of traditional shoes that deliver on the ‘Float’ experience.  These lines aren’t mutually exclusive as many choose to alternate day to day depending on how they feel.”

Q.  How is the process different when you’re updating a franchise style as opposed to designing a brand new style from the ground up?

A.  “On established styles, consistency is critical.  Once a franchise is established it’s all about thoughtful updates while staying true to what made the shoe successful.  With a new model, there’s a blank canvas.  There are no preconceived notions or expectations on what they should be or look like.  In a lot of ways, it’s more challenging to update an established franchise than introduce a new model because there is a lot more scrutiny placed on it.  With that being said, we approach new and existing shoes the same.  We identify the consumer and business opportunity.  Define how it needs to function and look aesthetically.  Then we go through necessary steps to create it and take it to market.”

Q.  Brooks has developed some standout footwear technologies in recent years; can you talk about how this has changed the product from, say, five or ten years ago?

A.  “The R&D team does an amazing job creating new materials and processes that improve our shoes and our designers always come up with creative ways to incorporate these materials or alter the geometries on shoes to make them better.  One of the most notable technology breakthroughs in the past few years is Brooks DNA.  It’s an adaptable cushioning system that customizes the ride to each runner’s individual needs.  A larger runner’s cushioning needs are different than a smaller runner as they apply different amounts of force to the shoe.  The DNA technology instantaneously reacts to different forces in order to optimize the cushioning accordingly.  This technology is found in the heel and forefoot of the Ghost 5 as well as most every other shoe in our line.”

Q.  With the Ghost 5 just released, can you give us a hint at what to expect for the Ghost 6 or Brooks Running in general in the near future?

A.  “All I can say is we are working on the Ghost 6 now and I am excited about it!  I can’t be too specific, but are going to really raise the bar in a couple areas on this shoe while staying true to the Ghost’s heritage.”

The Brooks Ghost 5 is available at all City Sports store locations and online with Free Shipping.  Get yours today!

City Sports is now open in Burlington, VT! Click here to see photos of the store.

Join us this Sunday for the Grand Opening party of the new City Sports Burlington location at 35 Church Street!

WHEN:
Sunday, May 6th from 10AM – 2PM

WHERE:
City Sports Burlington
35 Church Street
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: 802.861.6300

EVENT DETAILS:

• First 100 customers through the door at 10am this Sunday, will receive a FREE gift bag and then chance to win FREE shoes for an ENTIRE YEAR!
• Enter to win raffles worth of $1,000 of in-store merchandise
• Spend $50 or more this Sunday and get 2 FREE vouchers to a Lake Monsters game this summer
• Meet the Lake Monsters mascot Champ!
• Enter to win an entry into the 2013 Key Bank Vermont City Marathon!
• Enjoy music from a local DJ
• For every transaction made 5/5 through 5/13, City Sports will donate $1 to the Greater Burlington YMCA

SEE YOU THERE!

We caught up with Chris Mahoney, the Sr. Footwear Designer for Saucony, to get a closer look at the latest updates and design strategy of the new Saucony Kinvara 3.

Q. The Kinvara 3 is on its third rendition for 2012; what have you learned with the first two Kinvaras that’s incorporated into the 3?

A. “One of the main things we’ve learned as the Kinvara franchise has grown is how passionate runners are about it. When we first started the Kinvara there were no expectations: it was carte blanche during the design and development process, but since the original launch it’s really taken on a life of its own. When we updated from the Kinvara 1 to the 2, we decided to do a subtle update for 2 reasons. First, we wanted all the people that missed out on the Kinvara 1 to be able to try the Kinvara 2 and experience all the great aspects of the first generation. And secondly, we wanted all the Kinvara 1 loyalists to take comfort in knowing we didn’t screw around too much with a good thing. But going into the Kinvara 3, we definitely had more feedback and testimonials that allowed us to really target and identify areas to improve and adjust.”

Q. The Kinvara has spanned a good stretch of a sea change in running footwear that’s been influenced by minimalism;  where do you think things currently stand, and what do you foresee for the future?

A. “I think ‘minimalism’ or ‘natural movement’ is a very viable category, but it comes in shades of grey. There are some products that are extremely minimal and others that just embrace the minimal philosophy of ‘less is more’. Either way, there’s a great variety of product for runners to choose from. The Kinvara happens to be a shoe that embraces both. It has great cushioning to protect your feet from the pounding, but a soft and flexible upper that feels like a slipper on your foot. Combine that with our 4mm heel-to-toe geometry and you have a well-balanced product, which is why I think so many runners have become Kinvara fans. 

I do think the future of running can be found in the philosophy of minimalism. The advancements in materials and foams have allowed us to create highly cushioned and supportive footwear, but do so with fewer layers and less weight. So whether you believe in barefoot running or pronation control, the products in the running market today have all benefited from the advancements in technology that came about because of the minimalist footwear movement.”

Q. The FLEXFILM on the upper gives it a very distinct look; can you talk about this technology and how it functions?

A. “FlexFilm™ is a material that we originally developed for our elite athletes. We initially used it on our high-end distance and middle distance spikes because it reduced weight, layers, and seams, but what we started to realize was how incredibly strong it was. It provided great lock-down and support for the foot while still allowing optimal flexibility. So naturally we started to experiment with it on our running prototypes, which led to using it on the Hattori and Kinvara 3. 

For reference, traditional materials are usually 1.0 – 1.2mm thick, but our FlexFilm™ is only 0.3-0.5mm thick, so right away we’re cutting the weight and thickness in half. Also because of the way it’s bonded to the upper mesh we can create more precise designs that would not be possible using a traditional cut-n-sew technique.”

Q. What are the main features of the Kinvara you’ve kept relatively intact, and what are the major changes?

A. “We definitely wanted to maintain the great fit, feel, and ride of the Kinvara, but we realized the need to improve the shoe’s durability. So on the Kinvara 3 we addressed this issue in the upper by utilizing our FlexFilm™ material. It not only provides a thin, flexible, and supportive design, but it also helps protect the base layer mesh from abrasion.  In the sole unit, we re-allocated the rubber to provide more durability along the lateral edge, which is where we saw the most wear on the Kinvara 1 and 2. Additionally, we beveled and decoupled the heel, to allow for a smoother transition from heel to toe.

BUT, even with all these improvements to the durability, we didn’t have to budge on the weight. So the Kinvara 3 weighs exactly the same as the 1 and 2, at 7.7 oz. (men’s size 9).”

Q. How has the success of the Kinvara influenced the rest of the product line, and vice versa?

A. “It made us do a complete audit of our product line. We looked into all of our existing franchise models to see how we could improve them. So starting with some of our key products like the Triumph 9, Guide 5, and Hurricane 14, we changed from the traditional 12mm heel-to-toe drop to an 8mm one. It was an aggressive move on our part, but through a lot of testing we realized it was the right move to make. We wanted to transition people from the traditional heights to something a little lower, and 8mm was a great halfway point between traditional footwear and products like the Kinvara. Additionally, we looked into improving our foams and compounds so that we could reduce stiffness/firmness and replace it with materials that were lighter, more cushioned, and more responsive.  The results have been really positive so far.”

Q. There’s also a Trail version of the Kinvara due later in 2012;  can you talk some to that style?

A. “The Kinvara Trail is a new product for us that’s based on the Kinvara 3. So we’ve applied our FlexFilm™ technology to the upper, and used a breathable mesh to help not only keep debris out, but still allow the shoe to dry properly between runs. So while we’ve mirrored the same great fit of the Kinvara 3 in the upper, we’ve also made the platform more trail specific by lowering the overall heights of the midsole to make it closer to the ground. We are also using a high traction rubber outsole to provide great grip, and a full forefoot rock plate to give more underfoot protection but still maintain ideal flexibility. So ultimately we created a lightweight and nimble trail shoe that serves as a great sidekick to the road version.”

Q. The Kinvara 3 has arrived…which can only mean the Kinvara 4 is on the drawing board at Saucony; can you give us any insight or hints as to the direction you’ll be heading for 2013?

A. “I wish I could, but that one’s under lock-n-key. There are a lot of people in our own building that haven’t seen it yet either. But good things are in the works, I promise!”

The Saucony Kinvara 3 is available at all City Sports store locations and online with Free Shipping.  Shop Now.

City Sports is only a few days away from joining the historic and lively Church Street community in the hub of Burlington, Vermont.  While we are looking forward to welcoming the passionate and outgoing Vermonters to join our team, we are also happy to be bringing some of our best to you.  Introducing the City Sports Burlington store manager, Heather Babin.

Where are you from originally?

“I spent my first 18 years in Salem, MA – home of the Witches…and yes, that was my high school mascot…and yes again, all the boys teams were also the Witches.”

How long have you been with City Sports and what is your current role?

“I started at the City Sports store on Comm Ave in Boston – August 2009, as part-time sales associate. Currently I am the Store Manager of the new Burlington, VT store..opening May 5th!”

Heather Babin

What inspires you to stay active?

“Stress relief – being active is by far the most rewarding of all the vices out there. Being active in any capacity is a great way to clear your head, let off some steam, and come back with a refreshed outlook on things.”

What is your favorite sport?

“Basketball – hands down, no questions asked…and not just because I’m tall and got sick of people asking me if I was a basketball player. I’ve played at almost every level and have coached collegiately. I believe I owe all of my successes (personally, professionally, academically) to the lessons I’ve learned and experiences I’ve had throughout my years of involvement. It truly is my passion, and I miss competing at a high level/being a part of a committed team, pretty much every day. So (hint hint) if anyone knows of I place I can get involved here in Burlington please help me out!”

What was your first pair of athletic shoes?

“Other than my coveted pair of Sheryl Swoopes basketball sneakers back in the day (no one has any idea what I’m referring to here, and if you do you’re pretty much my new best friend), I did have a pretty sweet pair of low level Nike running shoes my freshman year of high school cross country. They were cool because they were orange, not cool once I ended up with stress fractures in my lower back…perfect example of how important it is to get someone in the right pair of running shoes!”

If you could run a mile with anyone in the world, past or present, who would it be?

“My grandmother. She had pretty severe arthritis for as far back as I can remember. The opportunity to have seen her as physically active as her spirit always was would have been a remarkable experience.”

Do you train with music, and if so, what’s your favorite track?

“I like to put on my Kelly Clarkson Pandora station and see what happens. Don’t judge me – she’s much more edgy and rock than her girl next door, ballad singing, and American Idol days. I love it. Try it sometime; I doubt you’ll be disappointed.”

What is your favorite “cheat-food”?

“Oh Easter candy, Cadbury mini eggs in particular, you are my Kryptonite.”

What inspired you to make the move to Burlington and take on the position of Store Manager?

“I love new challenges, and new places. I’ve made my tour of Boston stores, working my way up through 4 of them in the past few years, so it was time to explore something different. Opening a new store in a new market is pretty much uncharted territory for us these days, and I’m thrilled with the unpredictability that each day is bringing. The opportunity to hire and train a brand new staff, set up and organize a store from scratch, and pave the way for our brand in Vermont was something that was way too good to pass up!”

What part of Burlington are you most excited about?  Are there any trails or restaurants that you have on your to-do list?

“I can’t say that I’ve ever been much of a cyclist, but this scenery is really inspiring me to get out and explore. The waterfront and endless bike trails around here are definitely going to win me over soon and get me out there.

As far as restaurants are concerned, I haven’t done too much research yet but I am always looking for some good Thai food!”

Cycling has seen historic rise in the last few years leading the way for more and better bike paths, especially in places like Boston, NYC and Washington DC.  With that, the relevant product innovation and style trends have moved at a brisk pace as well too.  Cycling apparel, equipment and footwear are getting lighter, stronger and better looking all at the same time.

The Pedal Pushers Club is keeping up with the pace.  With designs that speak to the benefits of cycling and location specific branding, their line of t-shirts speaks to anyone that takes to two wheels with a soft spot for home.  For more on The Pedal Pushers Club t-shirt line, we caught up with their “presedente” Brett Novick.

What is your role at The Pedal Pushers Club?

“My business card reads “presidente” which means that I am pretty much involved in everything except the actual screen printing.  Owning a small business can of course be a challenge, but in reality I very much enjoy being able to have a hand in a lot of different projects at the same time. Over the last few years I have learned a tremendous amount about a lot of different topics.  I’d say I spend the majority of my working time on marketing and trying to create new partnerships for the business. For example, I am incredibly excited to now be in City Sports because I think we cater to a lot of the same people and have very similar corporate vibes (if that makes sense).”

What was the inspiration behind starting The Pedal Pushers Club?

“To me the Pedal Pushers Club is about making unpretentious clothing for people who like riding bicycles. The industry has become way too flashy by focusing exclusively on the high-performance segment of the sport and forgetting about the everyday cyclist who isn’t counting grams on their commuter bike. The people that ride their beater bikes to work or to the grocery store everyday are just as much cyclists as anyone else.  We decided to call the brand a “Club” because as far as I am concerned if you like to ride a bike than that’s all I really need to know, you’re in the Club. Consider us the everyman of cycling t-shirt companies. “

Shop the Pedal Pushers tees at citysports.com

There has been a steady increase in cycling popularity over the past few years, what do you think is the primary cause?

“I think for a long time Americans were stubborn about cycling, relegating it is a fringe activity that was only good for children or the real enthusiasts. It is great to see cycling growing so much both as a sport and as a culture. On the fitness side, I think Lance Armstrong brought a lot of attention to the sport, because even if you didn’t know anything about cycling, his story was truly inspiring to a lot of people.  Additionally, regardless what you think of Livestrong as a charity, it is responsible for a lot of new people getting on bicycles.

On the transportation side, I think there have been a lot of factors that have made people realize that riding a bicycle is sometimes simply the most practical way to get around a city.  When gas prices started going up, a lot of people really reevaluated the value of driving everywhere they went.  Not only can cycling save commuters money, but it is certainly a more enjoyable way to start your day than sitting in traffic.  At the same time I think the industry and advocacy groups finally got their act together and started getting cycling issues on the political agenda with local government. Mayors like Menino (Boston), Bloomberg (NYC), and previously Fenty (DC) have really helped by embracing the idea that getting more people on bicycles is good for everyone’s quality of life. 

The combination more people riding bikes for sport combined with better advocacy efforts has really led to a broad cultural change in the way people see cycling in this country.”

What is your all-time favorite cycling route?

“That is too hard. I will give a quick top 3.

1. Western Massachusetts. I went to Umass Amherst, and the cycling out there really can’t be beat. I am a New Englander at heart so to me there is nothing better than a ride out to Sugarloaf in Deerfield.  You can see the whole valley from the top and the view makes the climb almost seem worthwhile. 

2. The C&O Canal path in DC.  For those that have not experienced it, the C&O is a crushed gravel trail that goes from here to basically Pittsburgh without any road crossings.  It runs along the Potomac river and it is remarkably beautiful, especially because you can leave from the heart of DC and be in what feels like the middle of nowhere in only a few miles.  On the weekends it gets pretty crowded, but most weeknights during the summer you can find me out there on my cross bike, and there is nobody else out there. 

3. Chugiak in Alaska. I lived in Wasilla for a little while (right up the road from Sarah Palin) and used to love riding up there. I had a few close calls with some wildlife, but Alaska might be the most serene place on earth.  Plus it was cool to be able to get out of work at 8 or 9 pm and still have a few hours of daylight to ride. The roads are pretty lousy up there, so another good choice for a cross bike.”

Your clothing line features a lot of market specific details.  Can you talk about some of the current designs and how they speak to certain cities?

“It seems obvious, but most people are proud of where they come from and we try to pick symbolic elements to represent that pride.  I have lived all over the place, but to me basically the 95 corridor is home pretty much anywhere from DC to Boston.  As a brand we try to make location based shirts only about places that one of us has lived or knows well. People always suggest making shirts for this place or that, but if we don’t know anything about the city or have never been there than it probably isn’t going to be an authentic expression of the place.”

City Sports was born and raised in Boston.  It all started back in November of 1983 when Mike Kennedy and Eric Martin opened the first City Sports location on Mass Ave in the Fenway area.  We now own and operate 20 locations along the East Coast, including one of our most recent stores in Wellesley (right near the halfway mark of the race) and our flagship store in Back Bay (at the finish line), so it should come as no surprise that one of our favorite annual events is the Marathon.

Whether you are true Bostonian or a tourist from far away, there is no denying the Marathon’s rich history and the amazing runners who participate year after year.  That is why we are proud to offer the following events for you to enjoy while you are catching all the action leading up to and during the big race:

BOSTON MARATHON EXPO – FRIDAY 4.13 to SUNDAY 4.15

City Sports is partnering with Nike during the Boston Marathon Expo at the Seaport World Trade Center!  Shop the latest Nike running gear including their exclusive Boston edition apparel and footwear.  Free trolleys will be provided during expo hours and will be running between the Seaport Expo Center and the City Sports and Niketown locations.  Exclusive City Sports coupons will be handed out to all visitors of the Nike expo booth.

When: Friday April 13th to Sunday April 15th (Click here to view the expo hours)
Where: Seaport World Trade Center

MARATHON VIEWING PARTY AT WELLESLEY – MONDAY 4.16

Join City Sports and adidas in Wellesley to cheer along 26,000 runners as they take on 26.2 Miles!

• Create cheer signs to root for friends, family and anyone else you may know running the race
• Free City Sports tee for the first 100 attendees
• Capture the moment with our free photo booth
• Free bleacher seating open to the public

When: Marathon Monday – April 16th from 10AM to 3PM
Where: City Sports Wellesley

MARATHON VIEWING PARTY AT MCGREEVY’S BAR – MONDAY 4.16

Join City Sports, adidas, Oakley and Social Boston Sports in the Back Bay as we celebrate the runners as they near the finish line!

• Entry not guaranteed.  Must be 21 years old or over

When: Marathon Monday – April 16th from 9AM to 5PM
Where: McGreevy’s Bar in the Back Bay

GET YOUR MEDAL ENGRAVED AT CITY SPORTS – MONDAY 4.16 to TUESDAY 4.17

Get your medal engraved after you cross the finish line at the City Sports on Boylston Street ($20).

When: Marathon Monday, April 16th from 12PM to 9PM and Tuesday, April 17th from 9AM to 9PM
Where: City Sports Back Bay

Whether you are competing in the big race or just a super fan, we got the gear for you.

Click here to shop all of the Official BAA Boston Marathon from adidas and all other limited edition Boston Marathon gear.

New Balance is proud to be from The Hub, which is why the special edition Boston 890 features custom iconography along the heel and insole that represent Boston’s best.   This limited edition version of their lightest neutral running shoe is here to commemorate the big race.  Just pick up the Boston 890 and you’ll feel it right away: the potential to move with a lightness you’ve never experienced before. It is incredibly light, yet it’s not a stripped-down racing flat reserved for speedsters — it’s a neutral running designed for everybody.  For an inside look at the inspiration of this shoe and how it can perform, we caught up with Claire Wood, New Balance’s Running Product Manager.

This is a very unique shoe; where did the inspiration for the 890V2 BOS come from?

“Inspiration from the Boston version of the 890V2 came from a combination of things. The specific color was inspired by the extremely rare, blue lobster, and we wanted to combine that with bold color pops of the bright green and orange so that it stood out even further on our already bold lineup of the 890v2. The details found on and inside the shoe were inspired by our desire to allow visiting runners to leave with little pieces of our amazing city. There is so much history, charm, and character to Boston, and we wanted to celebrate that,  as well as all sorts of scenery a runner would encounter here…. Not to mention a fun reminder to Run Fastah, as we may or may not mention on the tips of their shoelace…”

What are some of the unique ‘nods’ to Boston found in this shoe?

“We’ve left it up to the runner to take a close look at the details the Boston 890v2, and discover the specialness that each icon represents. To mention a few (without spoiling!), runners will find icons that give a nod to the famous CITGO sign, a Dunkin Donuts up of coffee, a crisp Sam Adams brew, or even the famed golden ducklings found in the public garden. With icons ranging from crew boats one would run by on the Charles River, to feathered pens our founding fathers used to sign quite important declarations, we hope runners and wearers of the Boston 890V2 understand first-hand the memorability of what we’ve brought to life on our running shoe. I of course cannot leave out the celebration of a good Boston lobster (or “lobstah” as us Bostonians can be heard saying), easily spotted in reflective on the heel.”

Along with yourself, can you describe the creative team at New Balance who worked on this project?

“I have the great pleasure of working with some amazingly talented footwear designers who not only are masters of the industrial part of their craft, but also wildly creative.  Myself and Kyle Strek, senior footwear designer behind the 890v2, went offsite for a day to sit outside and just simply brainstorm on all things Boston. Areas special to us, landmarks, places, things we see – and we sat in the sun, had some lattes, and jotted things down. What I love most about working with someone as creative as Kyle is that ideas simply build, like the rare blue lobster . . . and we go on tangents from there that one can now find on the Boston 890V2.”

What are some of the technical updates to the 890V2 from last year’s edition?

“Compared to last years’ edition, the 890v2 boasts the same REVlite foam, lending itself to an incredibly light experience, but in an everyday training shoe.  What we wanted to offer this runner was a slightly more natural experience, therefore we engineered this shoe on our PL-1 Natural last. The 890v2 now positions the runners foot at an 8mm midsole offset, with heights of 19mm in the heel, and 11mm in the forefoot. Runners are still guaranteed the full ground contact through midstance, aiding in good cushioning at the midfoot area and also a smooth transition.  An upper comprised of soft, no-sew material through the vamp and thin TPU welds through the quarter hold the runner through the arch area. The iconic look of the original 890 comes to life in a fresh update.”

The NBx collection has experienced tremendous momentum over the last few seasons; can you tell us what’s new for 2012, and what’s to come in the future?

“The NBx collection is all about delivering relevant, performance products to the everyday runner, and we strive to add an exclamation point to that experience. Performance Developer Stephen Brown has taken our material packages, internal constructions and overall shoe-making best practices to another level. Working closely with all of our talented designers and engineers, we hope to continue to turn heads with our performance offerings throughout the entire range. 2012 will bring new offerings for the runner looking for REVlite + a little stability, racing comps in our Fantom Racing collection, and all sorts of careful updates to those go-to shoes runners swear by. The NBx collection offers a shoe for each and every runner and their own unique needs”

As a Boston-based company, what does New Balance have planned for this year’s Marathon, and what are some things that you think make this such a unique and special event for the City of Boston?

“As a Boston based company, New Balance plans to celebrate our amazing city and everyone who runs here with encouragement to runners and welcoming them here at this special time. Look out for T stations, taxi tops and trolley cars to find out what we’re saying to everyone as congratulations for making it here. One thing for sure when runners come to Boston over marathon weekend is that they will know New Balance is born and bred here, loud and proud of it, and injecting energy into all-things running that doesn’t stop.”

 Any ideas or early plans on what the 2013 890 BOS will be like?

“There will certainly be a celebration and a welcome to runners in 2013 through a Boston 890. What that is just yet, I’m not quite sure, but I do have a conference call with Paul Revere next week to discuss possible plans…”

THE NEW BALANCE 890V2 BOS IS AVAILABLE ONLINE WITH FREE SHIPPING AND AT ALL CITY SPORTS BOSTON LOCATIONS

JOIN US AT THE CITY SPORTS IN WELLESLEY AS WE WELCOME THE SAUCONY MOBILE TOUR!

EVENT DETAILS:

• Get your gait analyzed by running shoe experts
• Test the latest Saucony running shoes on a mobile treadmill
• Participate in fun and interactive games
• Prizes and other giveaways will also be available

This event is free and no registration or RSVP is required!

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 11th from 4pm-7pm

WHERE:
City Sports Wellesley
475 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 781-431-0010

See you then!