Karhu is one of the older brands in running, stretching back to 1916, and the beginnings of Finland’s golden era of distance running. The Flow 6 IRE is an update to the Flow series, which is essentially a design reset, in the brand’s centennial year. The upper is a closed mesh with rebranded graphics of no-sew, fused overlays, with a bit of traditional stitched support at the heel. The midsole is a new setup of three densities; softest in the heel, a very firm Fulcrum in the middle to roll the foot forward to a livelier density in the forefoot. The sensation of the ride will feel familiar, but the ride itself is improved, thanks to reshaping of the Fulcrum element, a broader full contact bottom, and the new foam densities in the heel and forefoot. The outersole features full-length compressed rubber, where possible, the rubber eliminated where possible to reduce weight. The resulting amalgam is a step up in quality and performance.
Testers:”Nice improvement on the shoe overall. Fits well, handles the miles, good ride, and look cool”
Price: $120
Sizes: Men 6–13; Women 6–11
Weight: 9.6 oz. (men’s 11); 7.6 oz. (women’s 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, perforated EVA Strobel board
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild pronation