ASICS 33-M 2 Review

This shoe has a great look and the first time I put them on I thought, “Wow! These shoes are comfortable and so soft”! I couldn’t wait to see how they felt on the road.

On the road, sidewalk, track, & trails, this shoe feels great. It lives up to the ‘M’ in its name for maximal as it provides maximum cushioning very well.

ASICS 33-M 2 General Info

ASICS 33-M 2 – Lateral Side

The Asics 33-M 2 comes from Asics Natural33 Collection. This collection of shoes is inspired from the 33 joints of the foot. Three models were introduced in the collection in 2015, the 33-M, the 33-FA, & the 33-DFA.

Each of these shoes shares a last that follows the natural contours of the foot designed to work naturally with all 33 joints.

Featuring the brands innovative AmpliFoam cushioning and Solyte midsole, this shoe is designed to provide enhanced cushioning combined with durability.

This particular model gives the most cushioning and is also the most expensive in the collection with a price point of $140. The other models, the FA and the DFA, are designed to give more flexibility and ground feel.

The 33-M 2 is the updated version released for 2016 improved to provide even more cushion than its predecessor. With a low 4 mm heel to toe offset, it provides a more natural transition compared to traditional trainers.

While providing lots of cushion, it remains lightweight weighing 9.1 oz. This caters to the runner looking for a shoe that can provide superior impact protection without feeling clunky.

With a seamless construct, the 33-M 2 provides a secure and comfortable fit, also running true to size.

ASICS 33-M 2 Sole Unit

ASICS 33-M 2 – Pair

The Asics 33-M 2 is designed with Asics AmpliFoam midsole technology. Amplifoam provides enhanced and consistent cushioning offering a resilient ride.

The material also has the benefit of being very durable thus able to withstand the mileage. The midsole is also constructed using Solyte.

This allows the shoe to maintain its light weight also sharing the features of providing extra cushioning and durability.

According to ASICS, the softer midsoles allow for better flexibility, comfort, & platform adaptability allowing for a more natural running experience. These materials give this shoe that “wow this is soft!” reaction.

This shoe consistently delivers the soft feel throughout each run. I took this shoe on all surfaces and it felt great. I wouldn’t say it’s excellent for track workouts or up tempo runs as it lacks ground responsiveness.

Keep in mind this shoe is not designed for speed work though I had no problems running 100 meter strides in them. Focusing on cushion, I found this shoe to be excellent for maintenance runs, recovery runs and long runs.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 12 Review

For 12 years the Wave Inspire has catered to the runner who needs extra support underfoot. For many years, the line offered a snappier, faster feeling shoe than rival entries.

Now the Wave Inspire has abandoned the shoe weight loss wars and weighs in beefier than perhaps ever before. This year’s model gets a redesigned midsole and upper.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 12 General Info

When I unboxed my test pair of Wave Inspire 12s, I immediately could tell that this shoe felt heavy in the hand. My suspicions were confirmed when I tried one on alongsidelast year’s Wave Inspire 11.

My shoe scale only put a figure to what I already knew; this shoe has put on some weight! My pair arrived in the bright blue and lime color scheme regularly found on Mizuno shoes.

The Wave Inspire 12 gets a new upper and midsole as well as some interior changes. The fit is still classic Mizuno; fitted in the heel and mid foot with an open toe box.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 12 Sole Unit

Mizuno Wave Inspire 12 – Sole

As always, the core of any Mizuno shoe is the wave plate. This is a plastic plate that works like the suspension system in an automobile.

It gives the shoe rigidity, shock dispersion and a measure of torque resistance that other shoe designs struggle to equal. It also contributes to the characteristic firm ride that Mizuno shoes are known for.

The Wave Inspire 12 features a carryover wave plate from last year but the rest of the midsole is updated.

It seems that Mizuno has changed the heel geometry in the Wave Inspire 12, deleting the SR Touch foam wedge and replacing it with a new compound called U4ic X.

This ties in with the rest of the midsole build which is comprised of Mizuno’s U4ic foam. The overall result is that the Wave Inspire 12 leans out a bit more laterally than the 11 did.

Essentially this means that the shoe will provide a greater wedging effect, or stability, than before. Mizuno has also added an additional layer of foam under the sock liner.

I’ve only seen this once before in a Mizuno; the Wave Nirvana 4, I believe. Even then, it was only found in the heel portion. Now, in the Wave Inspire 12, Mizuno has given the shoe the full length cushioned last treatment.

I’m guessing it’s a 65 durometer foam but I can’t be sure as it isn’t marked in any way. You might think of it as a memory foam top liner that you can place above the mattress in a bed. Same principle.

The outsole still features Mizuno’s X10 carbon rubber heel for abrasion resistance while the balance of the outsole gets a softer blown rubber. The outsole is also slightly less curved than the Wave Inspire 11.

Saucony Omni 14 Review

I have really grown to like Saucony’s line of shoes. They give a great fit and smooth ride throughout. I had huge success with races using the Mirage, so when I saw I was getting to test the Omni’s I was excited.

Not much has changed with the last incarnation of the Omni line. It’s a shoe that is rather unique, giving a high amount of support with a ride more reminiscent of a motion control shoe thanks to the 8mm drop.

I wish the drop was a little higher though as this gave me issues. I am used to running in shoes with either much lower drops or ones higher than this.

The fact that it was in the middle of the line altered my running form to the point of having soreness issues with my calves.

I had issues on my longer runs after I would hit 8 miles as I became more fatigued due to not being used to the ride.

Saucony Omni 14 General Info

Saucony Omni 14 – Medial Side

As the name suggests, this is the 14th shoe in Saucony’s every growing popular Omni line. It sits high on the podium of the moderate stability shoes that Saucony offers. While not a flagship, it is definitely a staple in Saucony’s arsenal.

First impression when unboxing was opposite of how my first run in these were. What stood out to me first was the high amount of foam on the inner portion of the shoe.

I was expecting this to be a shoe more similar to Asics’ Kayano line because of this.

When I first laced them up and ran in them I was pleasantly surprised. The shoes were very flexible and I was able to rebound fast off the ground thanks to the powergrid system on the sole unit.

Style wise, colors are somewhat neutral but bold. I received the black color way and this is a shoe I can wear with regular clothes.

Saucony Omni 14 Sole Unit

Saucony Omni 14 – Heel

Saucony’s trademark powergrid is present on the sole of the shoe. The sole is covered in soft foam throughout with a high layer of tread.

This translates into a very smooth ride throughout. The foam is soft, which allows my feet to bounce quickly.

I had zero issues in inclement weather which included heavy rain and snow. I always felt in control and only had to somewhat adapt, but this was because I was going through patches of ice the rear of the heel promotes an 8mm drop.

Most stability shoes that I’ve ran in, have a higher drop in the double digits. This is where the Omni’s unique ride comes into play.

It pushed me forward to use more midfoot striking. I was not expecting this with such a large amount of support.

This did come with some difficulties however, as I was finding myself sore in my calves and longer runs were difficult once I passed into double digits.

You definitely want to ease into these shoes if you are used to running in middle spectrum stability shoes like the Brooks Ravenna or GT2000 line.

PAOLO SCAFORA DOING THINGS WAY DIFFERENT!!!

Paolo Scafora

I just touched down back in London and am quickly trying to get you all a taste of Pitti before my dormant weekend comes along. I saw a lot of interesting things out there and have a lot of pictures to share with you. I wanted to do more posting and IG while there but I would have spent a fortune and would have killed my battery too quickly. So expect heay stuff this coming week.

Here is a snippet of Paolo Scafora’s, of Napoli, new collection which is something that I have never seen before. Those bits are suede, cut in between the leather . Get ready for more come Monday.

So I touched down in Florence yesterday and am now getting poured in 15 degree weather (which is really strange for this time of year, the common trend this Winter). Pitti starts tomorrow and it should be interesting. Will do my best to keep up with social media and whatnot and take pics of the latest trends. So stay tuned!!

For those that ordered toe taps on your shoes during our Winter Sale, which is still on at www.jfitzpatrickfootwear.com, we are just getting through them as fast as possible. More of you did so than did not so the cobbler can only do so many at a time. Thanks for all of your patience.

Enjoy this picture of two extremely beautiful shoes by Corthay.

HIKING BOOT STYLE GOES STRONG WITH SPERRY

                                                                   Sperry A/W2016

When I went to Pitti this time around, I saw a good amount of the classic alpine boot done in all kinds of variations. I even saw some really great ones by one Italian brands but they had never heard of The Shoe Snob (or even what a blog was, in 2016 go figure) and wouldn’t let me take pictures as they are still in the archaic mentality that someone will steal from them. It was a shame as they were really cool. Oh well. But I was quite impressed with these Sperry low boots as I used to wear a lot of Sperry boat shoes back in my day but had never seen something so far from being nautical coming out of their collection.

While these are still about 8 months from being released it was nice to see them. I might even have to pick up one myself. Hope that they end up doing something in blue/navy. That would be great!!

Get ready for loads of Pitti posts in the coming weeks!

J.FITZPATRICK WINTER SALE 2ND MARKDOWN – 50% OFF & MORE!!

We have just reached the two week mark since starting our Winter Sale and with that are further reducing our discount in the hopes to flush out the rest of our stock and thus make room for our heavy order of S/S2016 stock.

That being we have made a 2nd markdown on all shoes, now going to 50% off and our boots to around 40%-45% off full retail price. Not only have we reduced price but have also added two new products to the sale, one being the Holman in tan scotch grainthat you see above and the other being the Montlake in Snuff Suede (which would make for a terrific addition to your wardrobe for the upcoming in S/S season), of which you can see directly below.

And driving loafers have been reduced to £90, so get them while you can!

Remember that most of what you see on sale will not be coming back and if it does (in the case of our core products in Antique Brown leather), it will be in the case of having a new leather (i.e. Museum Calf) and will be back at full price, not to get discounted again. So now is your chance to snap up some lovely shoes at an incredible price.

As always, we appreciate everyone’s support in our brand and vision and wish you all a great rest of your week!

BACK TO WORK FLATS

There's no better way to start the year afresh than with a pair of brand new work flats. New shoes put a spring in our step - and if we've decided to forgo drinking, sugar or start a new exercise regime for January, it's a nice way to reward ourselves for all our hard work.

If your office allows smart trainers - or you want something comfortable to walk to work in before switching to your office heels - the below EDGWARE mixed-material round toe trainers will keep you stylish and comfy all day long.



Or if you're after something a little glitzier, the below BEAUX pointed flats are practical for everyday but elegant too.



If you're wondering what to pair with opaque tights and an oversized sweater dress, our HEANDA square toe bow trim ballerina pumps and FAWNE lace up leather brogues are both a good bet.



Otherwise you can't go wrong with a pair of flat, pointed toe boots such as our PEARCE leather Chelsea boots.



If you're a fan of tomboy style, these FABIA fringe detail buckle brogues are just the ticket - perfect with turn-up jeans or a 60s-style shift dress.

BLOGGER STYLE: MEN'S FORMALS

It's not just the female bloggers who are lusting after our snappy soles. The chaps are rather partial too. On both sides of the Atlantic, many famous boys of the blogosphere have snapped themselves in our shoes, here's a quick recap of some of them...

First up is Ali Gordon who popped on a pair of our REFLEX suede and patent leather lace ups with a smart-casual ensemble.




Perfect for the upcoming wedding season, if you like this style check out our brand new ROWER lace ups too.



Across the pond, Christian Blanchett also chose a pair of our party shoes, namely our RAPHAELL patent Derby lace ups.

 

Christian paired them with a gorgeous plum-hued suit - it makes for a more eyecatching alternative to black don't you think?

 

Last but not least, stylist John Jarrett for online style bible Individualism singled out our MANHATTEN brogue boots for a stylish, urban ensemble.

 

A brogue boot provides an interesting twist on the traditional men's lace-up shoe. Perfect for the office and to wear on weekends. Check out more of our smart men's boots here. 

 

And if the above styles float your boat, we've got some more gorgeous men's styles just in, like these dapper REDCOATburnished leather Oxford shoes.



And if you're fond of a brogue (characterised by its punchhole detail) check out our RIO lace up Derby brogues which come in a number of styles and textures to choose from.

TO THE MANOR BORN

There's something timelessly appealing about an English country gent - to the Americans anyway it seems. New Yorker Mustafa Kacar is the author of men's style blog Astute Attire who decided to adopt some classic country chic and deck himself out in a flat cap and three-piece tweed suit, complete with our BRIGADIER suede double buckle monk shoe.



We love the multi-coloured socks Mustafa has paired them with too. This BRIGADIER style makes for a great smart-casual work shoe  - a fun alternative to the traditional black lace up.

 

This style makes for a great smart-casual work shoe

 

And of course no dapper gent's ensemble is complete without a snazzy pocket square.



Take a look at Mustafa's Instagram snaps too here. 

3 Shoes for Your Beach Vacation Packing List

1. Rubber Flip-Flops

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This one’s an obvious no-brainer when thinking about what to pack for a beach vacation! That being said, there are often flip-flops (or “thong sandals” if you prefer) that aren’t quite as practical for the beach as we’d think. So when taking flip-flop sandals to the beach, you may want to take the following tips into consideration:

• Bring a simple thong or slide that can be fully immersed into water & doesn’t have any loose baubles, glitter or ornaments that may wash or loosen off
• Make sure the upper is snug on the foot & has a bit of outsole traction to allow you to easily walk on sandy & wet slippery areas
• Bring a pair made of non-absorbing materials. Let me explain: I have flip-flop sandals that I absolutely love to wear in & around Toronto, but the top is made of terry cloth. When I’ve brought them to the beach or pool, the upper part absorbed the water & took forever to dry. So annoying!
• These are the shoes you will likely wear the most on your beach vacay, so make sure they can take a good beating. Sand is known to be “rough” for a reason!
• Always pack an extra pair too, so if one craps out, or you lose one to the wind, you have a back-up plan! Also good to have an extra to use as slippers in your hotel room.

2. Light Sneakers

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Sneakers might not be your first shoe choice when organizing what to pack for a beach vacation, but they’re always and I mean always a good idea. Why? Because when travelling, it’s always bring one closed toe shoe. Even when packing for the beach! You never know what the weather will be like or what your actual needs will be when you get to your destination, so it’s always good to keep your options open. Other reasons you may need running shoes on your feet:

• One word: Travel. Light, breathable sneakers are a sheer necessity for the actual travel portion of your trip, in my books. 3 reasons.
  1. Not only might you be leaving from a snowy, cold place (like Canada, yay) & don’t want to freeze your toes off. 2: planes, trains & automobiles themselves can be cold. Like, really cold! And 3? Sneakers will prevent you from seriously hurting your feet or toes during potential travel mishaps, such as luggage/cart toe rolling & foot stomping by other, unaware passengers (let’s blame children primarily for this one shall we? 
• Fitness: yes stylish running shoe are not just a great idea for the actual travel portion of your, well,travel, but they’ll come in handy during related activities. This is obvious if you’re wanting to hit the gym. Maybe most of us get too lazy & would rather lounge on the beach all day, but wouldn’t it be nice if we had the option if the mood swung in that direction (or we felt mighty guilty of those 3 servings of chocolate cake the night before!?). And let’s not forget about those rainy days that might keep you off the beach for hours at a time & into the weight training rooms.
• Excursions: But maybe there’s an excursion you didn’t think about going on that will require you to wear comfortable/closed toe shoes for long treks? Or you didn’t realize rock climbing/tennis/other was available (free of charge!) & you wanted to play? All the reasons you should definitely pack some running shoes for your next beach vacation!

3. Wedge Sandals

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Of course, no leisure vacation, no matter what the location should omit a fashionable & fun pair of high heel shoes. Unless you’re going on a safari or climbing Machu Picchu, of course!

Packing a walkable high heel with a wedge for your next beach vacation is a great idea, because they’re an easy way to chic up even the most simple outfit, so you’ll be easily prepared for romantic dinner or fun night dancing, to show your legs off! Not to mention with the 70s trend in full force, they’re an easy way to keep your look updated & stylish.

But because of the nature of a beach vacation & the variety of “grounds” you’ll be stomping on, I’d recommend a sandal with a wedge & even some sort of platform, preferably in a woven, breathable material such as canvas or raffia (better for breathability in tropical climates). I’m partial to cork & weave heeled wedges, which are more resistant to scrapes & scratches. If you’re keen on leather or suede, choose smaller the straps, so your feet won’t get too hot & sweaty. High heeled espadrilles are a great choice too!

Add These 5 Shoes to Your Beach Vacation Packing List

What to Pack for a Beach Vacation? These 5 Shoes!

So winter is in full swing & you’re itching to take a relaxing holiday, preferably somewhere warm, on a beach. I feel your winter blues pain, as I’ve been scouring for good deals to the Caribbean myself! But what to pack, especially which shoes to pack for the beach has many of us scratching our heads. Hence, the need for a shoe-related beach vacation packing list! Trust me, I was the first to require sorting one out, so I thought I’d share a few tips on the shoe blog from past lessons learned 

Why do we worry about what shoes to pack when you’re going to the beach? Because we don’t want to pack too few, but don’t want to pack too many pairs either. Especially because shoes, unlike summer clothes & those itty bitty bikinis, take up loads of space & are often heavy. What can I say; travel brings out the worst qualities in our shoes! And not to mention, most of us have to take those pesky baggage allowances into account, right!? So for you, here’s a straightforward, no-nonsense shoe packing list with the top 5 shoes to pack for your next beach vacation that’s helped me save a ton of time in the beach footwear sorting department. So happy reading & more importantly, happy packing!

FASHIONISTA'S 25 FAVORITE SHOES FROM SPRING 2016

A shoe from the Dolce and Gabbana spring 2016 collection. Photo: Imaxtree

Another season of Fashion Month is behind us, which basically means that we at Fashionista have been busy building our spring shopping lists (and, of course, covering the actual shows and biggest trends). One of our favorite categories to browse after all of the collections have walked is footwear, and for spring 2016, designers from New York to Paris decided to get a little wild with their shoes — and we're pumped. Pun intended.

If you take a minimal, practical approach to your footwear, there were plenty of sporty sneakers, flat sandals and simple boots on the runways in all four cities. However, an impressive number of labels went for a "statement" shoe this season, and those are the pairs that really stole our attention. From the metallic, mixed-media rocker boots at Rodarte and Miu Miu to the intricately embellished options shown at Gucci, Alexander McQueen and Dolce and Gabbana, spring's most memorable shoes are certainly not for the faint of heart.

After much consideration, we've rounded up our 25 favorite pairs of shoes from the spring 2016 shows — or, your cheat sheet to what the fashion pack's boldest women will be wearing on their feet in six months.