50 Game-Changing Performance Sneakers to Watch for in 2013

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2.

No. 50 - Brooks PureFlow 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The PureFlow 2 comes with a BioMoGo midsole that gives your feet a cushy feel without requiring thick padding.

3.

No. 49 - On Running Cloudsurfer

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Running in the Cloudsurfer is like running on clouds, or so we've heard. On Running is a relatively new player in the running world, but one that is gaining traction amongst runners looking to increase their performance.

4.

No. 48 - Puma King

Sport: Soccer
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The legendary Puma King is back in 2013 and it looks to be better than ever. Puma once more uses its AptoLast technology system which helps the boot conform to the natural shape of the foot for a snug fit.

5.

No. 47 - Brooks Ravenna 4

Sport: Running
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: This season, this shoe is bringing a little more cushion, a bit more flex, and a whole lot of swagger with sleek design lines and fast colors. Brooks has also honed in on midfoot capture and engineered a saddle that envelopes the foot with an adjustable band.

6.

No. 46 - DC Mike Mo S

Sport: Skateboarding
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: Inspired by the super-light Unilite technology DC uses in its Unilite Trainer, the Mike Mo S is one of the lightest skate shoes around—something Capaldi certainly wanted to be incorporated into his skate shoe.

7.

No. 45 - Brooks GTS 13

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Continuing with the tradition of a tailored fit, stretch eyelets lock into the medial side to capture the foot better and technologies like Flextra and anatomical Brooks DNA deliver customized stability and cushion.

8.

No. 44 - Nike LunarSpeed+

Sport: Running
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: Combining two of Nike’s most popular technologies in recent memory, Hyperfuse and Lunarlon, the LunarSpeed+ is expected to give runners the perfect balance of support and cushioning.

9.

No. 43 - Asics GEL-Resolution 5

Sport: Tennis
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Featuring an improved Flexion Fit upper, the updated GEL-Resolution 5 provides a one-of-a-kind fit for maximum comfort on the tennis court. The shoe also has a re-designed PGuard in the upper for greater flexibility.

10.

No. 42 - Brooks Cascadia 8

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The Cascadia 8 was designed from the gritty, wet, and uneven ground up. Engineered to adapt to the surface and your foot, this versatile piece of equipment runs an ultramarathon and then asks for more.

11.

No. 41 - Mizuno Wave Evo Levitas

Sport: Running
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: Mizuno has always been known for its high-performance running sneakers that provide ample support and cushioning thanks to some ingenious midsole and outsole designs. Now, the brand is using that same technology in its latest zero-drop minimalist shoe, the Evo Levitas. We expect big things.

12.

No. 40 - Puma BioWeb Elite Fire & Ice Pack

Sport: Running
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: The vibrant and lightweight Puma BioWeb features WebCage technology on the upper, which provides both support and breathability during long runs. The shoe will be available in a Fire & Ice Pack.

13.

No. 39 - Nike LunarEclipse+ 3

Sport: Running
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: Thanks to a Dynamic Flywire construction, the LunarEclipse+ 3 is set to be one of the more comfortable Nike running shoes to date.

14.

No. 38 - New Balance 890v3

Sport: Running
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: I, personally, wasn't a huge fan of running in the New Balance 890v2s, but it seems like im the only one. Other runners swear by the ultra-lightweight shoe so it goes without saying that the anticipation for the next edition is building quick.

15.

No. 37 - Nike LunarRacer+

Sport: Running
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: Touted by Nike as being incredibly lightweight, breathable, and flexible, Engineered Mesh seems like the perfect fit for a running shoe. Also present is the Flywire upper and a Lunarlon midsole.

16.

No. 36 - UA Spine Blur Carbon III

Sport: Soccer
Release Date: January 2013
The Hype: The third generation soccer cleat from Under Armour will aim to make the American brand a serious contender in the international sport that is fútbol. The Spine Blur Carbon III uses carbon fiber in the outsole, as well as the lateral side of the boot--a feature that is designed to eliminate foot roll.

17.

No. 35 - Brooks PureCadence 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Features like the internal PDRB help prevent overpronation without added parts and the wide Nav Band holds your foot like an endless hug. With a new wrap tongue, the feel of this lovable shoe just gets better. Add a fresh look and some street cred, and this featherweight friend will run footloose and fancy-free with you.

18.

No. 34 - Mizuno Wave Ronin 5

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: To give the Wave Ronin a more natural fit, Mizuno has removed overlays on the upper for increased flexibility. The sneaker still has the same durable midsole/outsole as the Ronin 4.

19.

No. 33 - Nike Lunar Control

Sport: Golf
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Along with the TW '13, the Lunar Control is one of the better shoe options from Nike Golf. The latest version of the Lunar Control spring Lunarlon cushioning, as well as Nike power transfer zone technology, which promotes a smoother backswing.

20.

No. 32 - Under Armour Cam Highlight Trainer

Sport: Training
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The high-top Cam Highlight Trainer, with its Compfit compression sleeve, is designed for optimal ankle support during intense training. The shoe comes with the same Micro G cushioning UA has been implementing in its basketball and running sneakers, providing versatility and responsiveness regardless of your workout.

21.

No. 31 - Brooks PureDrift

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: As the newest addition to Brooks’ popular PureProject series, the PureDrift is designed to align your stride for a more natural ride. Much like the PureConnect and PureFlow models, the PureDrift features a unique two-split groove for greater flexibility in the forefoot.

22.

No. 30 - Puma evoSpeed 1 Graphic FG

Sport: Soccer
Release Date: January 14, 2012
The Hype: Puma is set to roll out the latest version of its popular evoSPEED cleat,the evoSPEED 1 Graphic FG. Cloaked in a vibrant yellow colorway, the Graphic FG gets its name due to a unique hexagonal-textured synthetic upper—an upgrade from the dotted pattern on the current evoSPEED 1.

23.

No. 29 - Babolat Propulse 4

Sport: Tennis
Release Date: February 2013
The Hype: The new and improved Propulse 4 is an all-court tennis shoe that features a Michelin (yes, the same Michelin that makes your car tires) OCS2 high-abrasion outsole for optimal grip on any surface.

24.

No. 28 - Mizuno Wave Elixir 8

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Making the switch from the tiger stripe patter to the checkered one was a questionable move by Mizuno, but under the hood, the Wave Elixir 8 promises to be a lean mean running machine. We can't wait to try this one out.

25.

No. 27 - Nike Alpha Pro

Sport: Football
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: Thanks to the Oregon Ducks, we got a glimpse at the newest football cleat from Nike, the Alpha Pro. There haven't been any details released about the performance specs of the cleat, but you can bet we're anxious to take a peek under the hood.

26.

No. 26 - Li-Ning Way of Wade

Sport: Basketball
Release Date: TBD
The Hype: Chinese brand Li-Ning became a serious contender in the hoops world this past year by signing NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade to its roster. It's time to see what the brand has up its sleeve.

27.

No. 25 - adidas CrazyQuick Mid

Sport: Football
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: The cleat is constructed from a Quickskin upper, which combines adidas’ springskin and springweb materials fused together to create a classic silhouette. While adidas released a special "Trophy Edition" of the cleat last month, the standard CrazyQuick won't launch until later this year.

28.

No. 24 - Brooks PureGrit 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Its concave shape delivers better balance by splaying out upon impact and creating more surface area for ground contact.

29.

No. 23 - Zoot Ultra Race 4.0

Sport: Running
Release Date: February 2013
The Hype: A first for running shoes, the Zoot will introduce the BOA lacing system in the Ultra Race 4.0 minimal sneaker. Usually found in cycling footwear, the BOA system uses adjustable wires running along the midfoot that hold the foot firmly in place.

30.

No. 22 - Mizuno Wave Ekiden

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: This traditional Japanese sneaker from Mizuno is a low and lean running machine. It weighs an encredible 4.6 ounces and features a 5mm heel-to-toe drop.

31.

No. 21 - Brooks PureConnect 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: With new upper mesh, this slim and nimble turn-hugger is for runners who crave less shoe and more freedom. A split toe groove extends toward midfoot, engaging the natural movement of the forefoot and creating a greater sense of feel.

32.

No. 20 - Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 8

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The Gel-Noosa Tri isn't just visually impressive, the shoe packs a mean punch on the road. We're curious to see what updates Asics has made in the 8.

33.

No. 19 - Nike Hyperdunk 2013

Sport: Basketball
Release Date: TBD
The Hype: Nike's non-signature flagship basketball sneaker, the Hyperdunk, is back for another round in 2013. Much of the shoe's technology seems to be the same as the 2012 model, including the Flywire upper. More details to come.

34.

No. 18 - Asics Gel-Excel33 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Lance Armstrong's rebound sneaker features our beloved Solyte technology, enough said, we're in.

35.

No. 17 - Skora Form

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The Skora Form is unlike any shoe you've ever run in. Its unique Goatskin leather construction makes it one of the softest and most comfortable shoes on the market. The Form is our darkhorse running sneaker for 2013.

36.

No. 16 - Jordan Melo M9

Sport: Basketball
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: Carmelo Anthony's latest signature shoe from Jordan promises to ball up a storm this year. The shoe features Dynamic Fit technology that uses Flywire straps to integrate with the laces and wrap the foot for support.

37.

No. 15 - Asics BlazingFast

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: This racing sneaker is built for speed, but not necessarily the long haul. We'll be testing the durability on these kicks, stay tuned.

38.

No. 14 - adidas FreeFootball X-Pro Soccer Shoes

Sport: Indoor Soccer
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: This latest indoor soccer shoe from adidas features Touch compound grid with a 'free-kick' synthetic leather upper for better feel and cushioning. We're diggin' the mean design of the upper on this one.

39.

No. 13 - Saucony Virrata 2013

Sport: Running
Release Date: February 2013
The Hype: The Virrata will be a great addition to the series, which, as of now, only consists of the highly acclaimed Kinvara 3. Weighing in at 6.5 ounces, the featherweight neutral runner will feature a 0mm heel-to-forefoot offset, promoting a natural stride.

40.

No. 12 - Asics Gel-Lyte33 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype:The GEL-Lyte33 is designed to be as lightweight and flexible as possible. Specialized for underpronators to neutral runners.

41.

No. 11 - Nike FlyKnit One+

Sport: Running
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype:The Nike Flyknit One features a similar sole to the LunarGlide+ 4, providing additional comfort and support. The double-stacked Lunarlon sole means the next evolution of the FlyKnit will be equipped for everyday runs, a departure for the former racing model.

42.

No. 10 - adiZero Tour

Sport: Golf
Release Date: January 24, 2012
The Hype: The SPRINTFRAME outsole, SPRINTWEB TPU layer, and new SPRINTSKIN designed with microfiber leather team up to deliver and incredibly lightweight and stable sneaker.

43.

No. 9 - AJ XX8

Sport: Basketball
Release Date: TBD
The Hype: You may not like the way the AJ XX8 looks (and we don't blame you). However, we still want to see how the show performs on the court.

44.

No. 8 - Saucony Mirage 3

Sport: Running
Release Date: February 2013
The Hype: The third edition of the Saucony Mirage series is weights in at about an ounce lighter than the Mirage 2. In terms of design, the MIrage 3 looks more like the Saucony Kinvara, which is due to the introduction of similar FlexFilm technology in the upper.

45.

No. 7 - Nike Free Trainer 3.0

Sport: Training/Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: With reduced weight and increased flexibility, the Free Trainer 3.0 has an upper that features strategically placed polyurethane lines for support and durability. The sneaker’s 3.0 rating on the Nike Free scale means it has a low-to-the-ground feel that mimics barefoot running.

46.

No. 6 - Mizuno Wave Prophecy 2

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The Mizuno Wave Prophecy 2 features a finely tuned midsole that propels you forward while working in perfect harmony with your foot and stride.


No. 5 - Saucony Kinvara 4

Sport: Running
Release Date: May 1, 2012
The Hype: We don't believe there's a single runner out there who isn't excited about the release of the next edition of the Kinvara. In the 4, runners will see an upgraded PowerGrid heel insert for improved cushioning. The The FlexFlim overlays on the upper of the shoe have been adjusted for increased breathability and an even more streamlined fit.

47.

No. 4 - NB Minimus Hi-Rez

Sport: Running
Release Date: April 2013
The Hype: Weighing in at just 4.3 ounces (for a men’s size 9), the ultra-light runner features 42 independent midsole pods that are mechanically bonded to a flexible foundation, allowing the shoe to move in a synchronized rhythm with the foot.

48.

49.

No. 3 - New Balance CT891

Sport: Skateboarding
Release Date: Spring 2013
The Hype: If you didn't know that New Balance made skate shoes, it's because they don't (until now). The CT891 is the brand's first attempt at entering the skate market, so naturally we're curious to see how it performs.

50.

No. 2 - Nike Air Max+ 2013

Sport: Running
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: A Nike Hyperfuse construction gives the sneaker a lighter, more breathable upper, while still retaining the extraordinary comfort that we’ve become familiar with over the years. And of course no modern Nike shoe would be complete without the addition of Flywire technology, which bring support and security to your feet.

51.

No. 1 - Nike GS 2

Sport: Soccer
Release Date: Available Now
The Hype: The second generation of the Nike GS cleat is an improvement in every major category. It’s lighter, faster, and even more environmentally friendly than any other boot ever built by the Swoosh.

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