Torin 9

Reviewers don't agree on this. One found it soft and lively. Most found it firm, planted and rather flat, and lab testing put its energy return well below average. One tester said the first few runs felt harsh and that it eased as the outsole broke in. The platform is level and low with a fairly flexible forefoot, so it suits a midfoot or forefoot landing and steady easy running more than pace changes. If you land hard on your heels, there's less between you and the road than in most daily trainers.

There's less foam than before and you'll notice it. Reviewers describe a softer core inside a firmer rim, which stops the shoe bottoming out but takes away some plushness. One lab review rated the cushioning low for the category and marked it down for half and full marathon distances. Another reviewer was happy taking it long and thought it protective enough for heavier runners. If softness was the reason you ran in the Torin 8, expect a different shoe.

This is where the Torin 9 has improved most. Lab testing scored it highly for stability, crediting the firm, low platform and broad forefoot, and two reviews found it steadier than the Torin 8. It's still a neutral shoe with a flexible heel counter, so it keeps you centred without trying to correct your stride. Runners who need proper overpronation support should look at a stability shoe, but on tired legs at the end of a run this one stays put.