The original Nike Free shifted the paradigm away from conventional running shoe thinking. This update attempts to solidify that intent: strengthen your foot and you’ll run better. The midsole is unchanged and there have been only minor tweaks to the outersole for improved durability. The upper has less synthetic suede and more mesh and stretch polyester to hug the foot, while allowing the foot’s motion to go where it will. The original’s caveat— use the Free as a training aid—still holds true, though many runners who have run in it frequently have found it useful for faster-paced running or races, as well as some longer runs. Our weartesters were pleased, saying, “Sweet! Very well cushioned, and maintained its cushion for the life of the shoe. For a person with good biome- chanics, these can be a great shoe for daily training. The new design makes the shoe grip your whole foot” and “Not for everyone—this shoe takes a much-needed place between racing flats and big-mileage, control shoes.”
Updates the Free 5.0 • Price $85 • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: Men 9.5 oz. (size 11); Women 7.7 oz. (size 8) • Upper: mesh, synthetic suede • Midsole: Phylite (Nike proprietary EVA) • Outersole: BRS 1000, Phylite • Innersole: CM-EVA • Shape: semi- curved • Construction: Strobel slip lasted • Recommended for: all foot types, as a strengthening and training aid