The Nike Zoom Structure +16
NIKE ZOOM STRUCTURE +16 FEATURES
WEIGHT: Men’s 10 – 10.5 oz; Women’s 8 – 8.7 oz
CONSTRUCTION:?Co-molded Phylon and Cushlon?dual-density foams;
Lateral side cuts provide targeted?compression; All sew seams on outside
STABILITY: Extended lateral crashpad
FOREFOOT: Zoom Air Unit provides responsive cushioning
AVAILABLE: Only at specialty running stores authorized?by Nike
Finding the right running shoe can be a pain. That’s why a recent run was such a feel-good experience thanks to the Nike Zoom Structure +16
The latest version of the popular running shoe is one that I would recommend to runners looking for a good high mileage stability shoe with light support. It is available exclusively at Santa Barbara Running Company, which has been recognized by Nike as a trusted specialty running store.
With a 15% weight decrease from the Structure +15, I was initially deceived by the Structure +16?s light weight in hand (8.7 oz in women?s size 8 and 10.5 oz in men?s size 10). Unsure whether it would provide the stability high mileage runners need across varying terrain because of its light weight, I tested it out in a workout along Santa Barbara?s coastline through Shoreline Park.
With a new construction approach for this latest Structure called co-molding, Nike created dynamic support that is lighter and smoother in transition, which I clearly felt in the shoes smooth transitions and stability while running. Instead of using the heavier method of gluing stiff stock-fit medial posts to the midsole, the Structure +16 was made by fusing two compression-molded foams with heat to create a dual-density system.
Frances Chase-Dunn
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Frances
Chase-Dunn is a former NCAA track &
field athlete at UC Santa Barbara and
has coached hurdles at San Marcos
High School. Having dealt with
injuries throughout her career,
Chase-Dunn stayed busy testing out
different types of running equipment
with the goal of preventing injury and
improving performance. Chase-Dunn
loves offering advice on the
latest running products available.
Through varying uphill, downhill, flat and grassy surfaces I ran in the shoe at different speeds and completed different warm-up drills. I noticed traction and good grip immediately in my drills, but altogether the best way to describe my experience was smooth, stable and light.
Running downhill I felt clear support in the heel and a light cushioning throughout the shoe that helped protect my feet and shins from impact. However, the light support didn?t feel overbearing, stiff or heavy like many other shoes have a tendency do and I felt very fluid, smooth contact transitions. This light cushioning provided protection for my feet, but didn?t allow my feet to sink in too much. I felt quick and light in my contacts to the ground.
Especially with my uphill sprints, I felt really great with this product’s ability to provide support while keeping me light on my feet. I was stable on my toes and wasn?t weighed down by the heel and other support. My feet didn?t feel heavy in my uphill movement as many shoes have a tendency to make me feel and I was able to make quick contacts off the ground on my toes, especially at speed.
For this reason, I think the Structure +16 would be great for not only high mileage distance runners, but also for track athletes and sprinters completing sprint and mid-distance workouts. With slight arch support it is a good choice for those who have a tendency to pronate in as well.
With so many running shoes in stores that are heavy, bulky and stiff, this new specialty Structure +16 is for anyone who wants stable support in a running shoe that doesn?t take away from its lightness and smooth transitions. The Nike Zoom Structure +16?s lime green, purple and black accents help make it stand out from other shoes as well, making it a fun choice with its cool, snazzy look.
