Category: Running
Best For: The competitive runner looking to compete a wide range of distances
Star Feature: HydroFlow fluid units in heel and forefoot
Weight: 6.4 oz
If the Brooks Running T7 racer looks familiar, then you may have seen them on British Triathlete and four-time Ironman Champion, Chrissie Wellington. This racer has been known to be her favorite flat to compete in, here's why.
When the shoe is on your foot, you quickly realize that this shoe has a lot to offer. For example, the shoe has excellent arch support for a minimalist racing flat, a plus for runners who suffer from low arches but love to compete in a neutral runner. The asymmetrical lace design features a nubuck arch saddle to lift and support your arches throughout a run. As you pull the laces, the saddle tightens and lifts the arch of your foot. That being said, the shoe itself is very narrow. T
A great fit in terms of length but these tend to fit a little snug, therefore going a half size up is recommended. Super lightweight thanks to Brook's strategically placed materials, the asymmetrical arch saddle and breathable mesh pairs these down to a mere 6.4 ounces. This allows for the shoe to move really easily with the natural motion of your foot, which is what we all want, right?
Where the T7 shines in style, it excels in support. Both the heel and forefoot are equipped with HydroFlow fluid units to help absorb the shock felt on impact. The T7 has a 12mm midsole drop so you're close to the ground. Without great support, running wouldn't be as much fun. The shoe feels awesome on flat paths or roads, but if you begin to veer off the beaten path, you may begin to feel the elements more than you'd like.
This is NOT an everyday runner and I also wouldn't recommend these shoes for a beginner, or to someone early on in training. These are a competition racing flat designed to go fast. These are your ideal interval training shoes, or tempo run shoes. I would compare the T7 racer to a sprint spike, because they give you that same snug and fast feel. You warm up in your supportive, responsive trainers, and you lace these up when you’re ready to be fast.
Bottom Line: The Brooks T7 competition shoe is lightweight, flashy, and very fast. If you’re looking for a pair of flats just to train in, then this is not the shoe for you. But, if you’re looking to compete and set some new times, then look no further than the Brooks T7 racer.
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