Brooks innovates with the Energize shoe trio

Brooks Running, expert in running shoe technology, innovates with its popular Energize shoe category. Levitate, Bedlam and Ricochet are the running shoes that give runners the power to run further and go faster. The shoes all feature Brooks’ innovative DNA AMP midsole technology, which was first introduced in fall 2017. Now, the most energizing midsole technology is reformulated, resulting into a DNA AMP midsole that is 20% lighter than the predecessor. Brooks reduced the density of the foam without sacrificing energy return. The new Energize 4 has the most energy return of leading performance running shoes.  

“Again, we’re pushing the limits of energy return, this time with the lighter side of DNA AMP,” says Hugo Chouissa, EMEA Footwear Merchandiser. “We are excited to unveil three new power-packed shoes: the super springy and lightweight Levitate 4 and Bedlam 3, and the extra lightweight Ricochet 2.” 

DNA AMP is a polyurethane-(PU)-based cushioning system engineered to provide unparalleled energy return. The foundation of DNA AMP is a PU foam that naturally expands, returning energy as force is applied. The reformulated DNA AMP is 20% lighter than before, covered with the same thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) skin, that resists horizontal expansion to deliver energy directly back to the runner.  

Levitate 4 – The best energy return, super springy  

The new Levitate 4 let’s runners enjoy the same incredible energy return, but with 20% less weight. The outside of the sole has an updated arrow-point pattern to move the foot from heel to toe quickly, enhancing the shoe’s springy feel. The shoe weighs 261 grams (W) and 292 grams (M) and has a midsole drop of 8 mm. 

Bedlam 3 – Springy and supportive 

The Bedlam gets even better with the new DNA AMP cushioning ánd GuideRails support to keep runners in their stride. The Fit Knit Upper provides a close-to-foot fit that’s lighter, softer, and more breathable than before. The shoe weighs 269 grams (W) and 306 grams (M) and has a midsole drop of 8 mm. 

Ricochet 2 – Springy and super light 

The second version of Ricochet is designed to kick runs into overdrive. This shoe combines BioMoGo DNA and DNA AMP cushioning to provide an even lighter, responsive ride to give the energy back to the runner. A hidden heel wrap, sueded heel tab and integrated collar guarantee a comfortable and sock-like fit. The shoe weighs 238 grams (W) and 275 grams (M)and has a midsole drop of 6 mm.  

Pricing and availability 

Levitate 4 is priced at £140.The shoes are available from June 1st at selected retailers and on www.brooksrunning.eu. 

CES 2013 | Best Lifestyle Product

CES 2013 has certainly given us a look into the future, with some products a year or more off being in our hands, but others just around the corner. There have been plenty of highlights in each section, but in the Lifestyle category, one product stood head & shoulders above the rest.

With many of us sitting in front of a desk, hour after hour, five or six days a week, it is important to get in some serious activity. There are plenty of products that try to encourage this, with FitBit being one that caught my attention early last year.

FitBit make these little sensors … think of them as high tech pedometers if you will, but then look at how much more information they actually offer. They track your activity, steps taken etc, with some models even tracking floors climbed and sleep patterns too.

Their newest product, the FitBit Flex moves away from their other clip-style trackers and puts the technology onto your wrist. The 'Flex' also adds the ability to sync your data with various devices (iOS and some Android) via Bluetooth 4.0, as well as talking nicely with Mac & Windows PCs. Once the sync has completed, you get a very nice user interface in your browser to help you analyse your progress. The Flex is due out soon and available to pre-order now on the FitBit website. I am looking forward to bringing you some video coverage very soon.