Product Review- Spira Stinger Elite

SPIRA Stinger Elite-  The ‘Banned’ Shoe that should be in any serious runners race day bag

http://www.spirafootwear.com/products_running_mens_StingerSRR103.php

The Spira Stinger Elite is not really banned and it is under debate whether it was actually really banned or not… The point of this review is not to delve into this issue but more importantly, to give a resounding “Heck Yeah this is a GREAT Shoe” review.  I admit, I was somewhat hesitant to switch from my normal training and race day shoes (Asics Gel Kayano and Asics Gel Bandito for 6+ years) but I was intrigued by this shoe and the technology behind it.  So, how did it fare:

 

The Test(s):  I ran in this shoe a total of 6 times with a combination of track workouts, street tempo runs and a Half Marathon which was 8 miles of some very extreme trail running and 5+ miles of pavement.  You ask, why run with this shoe on a trail run marathon… well- I was testing the shoe in all conditions.  Here’s how it performed:

 

On the road and track, the shoe is a gem, super lightweight (not the lightest in the bag but one of the lightest in it’s category), supportive and no blisters without socks.  I opted to replace the laces with lace locks and was happy with my decision.  The cushioning is much more then what you would expect in a lightweight trainer but I still would not use it as my everyday training shoe- nor is it intended to do so.  The shoe is very comfortable and the inside upper almost felt like a skateboard shoe when I first put it on(the old airwalk style).

 

On the trail- the shoe performed equally as well. I found my foot slipping from time to time where I was worried about coming through the front of the shoe (the trail running was very hilly with some narly descents) but the shoe held up great and provided all of the support I needed- Disclaimer: I had the laces yanked down pretty tight.   Unlike other lightweight trainers, I did not miss the extra cushioning or motion stability on the trails, ascents or descents.  

 Verdict- Great Race Day Shoe from everything from a 5k to a Half Marathon.  I am sure it would hold up great and provide great cushioning in a full marathon but I can not comment as of yet as it is not part of my experience.

•  Fit: True to Size
• Cushioning- Best out of the lightweight trainer / race day shoes I have used
• Socks or No Socks: Either way
• Support- No Motion control support but the shoe holds up well
• Distance:  Up to Half Marathon