The Beacon has been a versatile shoe, managing high mileage, faster runs, daily training, or recovery runs with equal effectiveness. As shoes update, their characteristics adjust and the Beacon has morphed a little, now leaning more towards a well cushioned, long tempo shoe. That said, some of our testers found it protective for their recovery runs. The upper looks similar to version 2, but the 3D knit has been refined, with a more supportive saddle and focused ankle collar providing its excellent fit. The midsole is a newly contoured Fresh Foam which has a firm, responsive feel. The outersole is toughened foam with solid rubber chicklets at the toe and lateral heel to accommodate the high wear areas of the sole. The result is a durable, lightweight, responsively cushioned shoe which could become the go-to shoe in your rotation.
Testers: “Firm feel with good protection. Great midfoot and heel fit with room in the toes. A well crafted shoe for a good range of distances.”
Price: $120 • Sizes: Men 7-13, 14, 15, 16; Women 5-11, 12 • Weight: 8.8 oz. (men’s size 11); 6.9 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board •
Geometry: Full contact