The Mirage follows in the footsteps of last season’s innovative Kinvara, so it shares more than a few similarities. Its weight belies its durable nature and it has a more traditional feel in both the upper and the outersole. The midsole shares the small heel-to-toe drop found in the Kinvara, but an EVA Strobel board adds a few millimeters of foam to up the ante on the cushioning. A TPU support shores up the medial side of the shoe, unobtrusively adding a touch of stability. The outersole is largely Neutral exposed midsole, but key wear areas are XT-900 in the heel, blown rubber in the forefoot. The upper has a familiar heel design and a well-padded ankle collar with an open airmesh for breathability and supportive midfoot welded overlays. The performance is unexpectedly good, whether for faster running or daily training. Its performance, versatility, and outstanding design earned the Mirage distinction as our Best Shoe in the Performance shoe category.
Testers: “Lightweight for a training shoe, and the heel-to-toe slope was really great. Worked well for training, long races, fast or easy—well done.”
Price: $100
Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12
Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s 11); 8.9 oz. (women’s 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation