The Distance slots into Newton’s line as their answer to the needs of the ultra triathlete, but they also happen to be pretty special performance running shoes, what Newton calls their “Speed Trainer.” The Distance reaches its third round with some changes overall, still sharing some genetic similarity to the Gravity and Motion. The upper has been overhauled significantly, retaining some of the open mesh as before, but welded suede replaces the traditional overlays, and minimesh at the sides of the vamp offers a bit more support, though still in a stretch mesh to move well with the foot. The midsole is similar to the tooling of the Gravity (like the Distance S is to the Motion), but with 2 millimeter geometry. Instead of the Gravity’s full-length action/reaction membrane, the rear foot is just lightweight foam, the POP1 platform centered under the metatarsals. Sort of a best of both worlds – Newton’s rebound while shaving almost 8 percent of the weight between the two. The outersole is completely updated, and beefier with a touch of carbon rubber in the heel and under the lugs. Speaking of the lugs, there are now 5 instead of 4, so the ride is more stable and a little more responsive as well. The verdict on the Distance III is that the performance is preserved while improving the durability and stability of the shoe.
Testers: “Roomy in the toes and snug from the mid foot back, that was plusher than expected. Unique forefoot spring makes them ride fast.”
Price: $155
Sizes: Men: 6-13, 14, 15; Women: 5–12
Weight: 8.4 oz. (men’s size 11); 6.7 oz. (women’s size 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics