What do you get when you give some knowledgable industry veterans a free hand, so to speak… Skechers has a “secret dream team” of footwear veterans, previously with other brands, who appreciate the California Dream of Manhattan Beach. The Speed Elite Hyper is the product of imagination, technology, and experience. The upper is a gauzy mesh, that is tough, breathable, and supportive. The midsole is a new kind of magic, as the process uses the same kind of plastic block, but the foaming action is created by a supercritical process that is between a gas and a liquid. This process makes a much more resilient foam which is also more durable. The plate also differs from others in the industry, as it is shaped like an “H” when viewed through the sole (with your X-Ray vision), with two rails creating the rocker, allowing the first metatarsal to better engage at toe-off. The outersole is a thin layer of tough rubber, grooved and positioned for traction. The product is aptly named, for both its purpose, and its audience, though you can benefit as well, if your goal is optimized performance.
Testers: “Snappy, light, and performance oriented. I’m a Skechers convert!”
Price: $180 • Sizes: Men 7-12,13; Women 5-10,11 • Weight: 6.1 oz. (men’s size 11); 5 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, carbon plated • Geometry: Full contact