I find this turbo-charged tangerine explosively responsive once I put some momentum behind it at a faster pace than 4.30/km. When I increase my speed to between three and four minutes a kay that the Next% comes into its own – that is when I shave five to ten
seconds off my usual pace per kilometre. The propulsive toe-off is due to a full-length plate in the midsole that also helps stabilise the soft, responsive Zoom Air pods in the forefoot.
Other notable features include its lightweight, breathable, Flyknit upper. It is sock-like and comfortable enough to allow my foot to move naturally, without compromising on fit – its heel is reinforced, which is handy if you tend to overpronate as I do. Although wear-testers commented it is reasonably tight in the toe box, so if you have wide feet, it may be worth going half a size up. It has a durable outsole, and it is grippy.
If you are planning on running further than 15km at six minutes a kay, the Next% may feel clunky due to its stack height and firmness – R3,599.95 is a lot of money to spend on a shoe better suited to tempo runs and faster. As for me, I am confident this speedy satsuma will help me smash my next PB – and have loads of fun doing it.
-Lisa Abdellah
