Saucony S20551-25: Men's Kinvara 11 Blue/White Running Shoe (8.5 D(M) US Men)

I have run exclusively in the Ride series since taking up the sport in 2016. I've got a pair of Ride 9s, Ride 10s, and Ride ISO 2s in my lineup, along with Mad River TRs for trail. The Kinvara was something I debated for a long time, not sure how I'd fare with the change in drop from 8mm to 4mm, but the Mad Rivers alleviated that concern (they're also amazing shoes by the way). I use the Kinvara for my 2 speedwork sessions per week, which is typically a run with shorter intervals and then a longer sustained effort like a tempo run. I am currently training for an aggressive HM goal, and these will definitely be my race day (time trial) shoe. Shoe is suitable for road, groomed path, track, or treadmill. They are snug, but not too tight, though I admit I was slightly concerned when I first put them on. But, once you get moving along you realize the fit is exactly what you want when running fast, and it is definitely not too tight, or uncomfortable in any way. The exposed midsole will pick up small bits of dirt or tiny pebbles, but no more than any other shoe, and nothing large enough to be noticeable while running. The ride is springy yet firm (in a good way) and you feel in control of the effort while getting decent energy return. Without outsole rubber, durability would normally be a concern for me, but I've got plenty of friends who get 400-500 miles on their Kinvaras, so I'm not really worried about it. If there was any possible drawback for me, it would be that the laces seemed a bit short, but that's easily remedied by swapping laces if you really need a good-sized bow. The laces have not come undone during any of my runs though, so it isn't really an issue at all. Fit: 9.5/10 (snug but efficient) Comfort: 9/10 (surprisingly easy on the feet even with a lower-end stack height; would probably cap usage at half marathon distance) Price: 9.5/10 (very quality shoe for the purchase price; no outsole rubber may affect durability but it is the correct construction for the purpose of this shoe. Style: 10/10 (there is a colourway for everyone which is great; the yellow pair I got is exciting, and the more muted black or grey options are very nice-looking as well)