Weaknesses: Could be difficult to stop a loose heel rubbing. I previously used ASICS 2110 and 2140. On trying new pair of these, I had blisters starting on both lower outer heels in 7 km. I had to take them back and change them for trusty 2140s.
Overall: A good shoe, but be careful about assuming that because you've done well in some ASICS that another model will be OK. Why change something that works?
Strengths: Very good fit (for me) coming from Asics 2130. Better cushioning than Nike Air Goretex trail shoes that I also used previously. The grip structure is shallow and does not waste too much energy on asphalt.
Weaknesses: Not waterproof or water-resistant - step in a puddle off-road and water comes straight in through the sides. The grip or lugs are not deep. Laces rather short if you want to use the loop system for the final holes to make the heel snugger.
Overall: Good shoe, good cushioning though reasonably neutral. Note that the outer has many surfaces (the coloured bits) that can easily be wiped clean after a run, but this does not mean it is water-resistant.
'MORE STYLISH THAN PREV GEN, BUT IN SOME WAYS WORSE'
Strengths: Good looks Comfort Improved "SiRF" satellite chip gives much improved bootup and lock during runs in trees etc.
Weaknesses: Zapped my laptop PSU when I connected to USB!!!! Total blackout :O Strap not as easy to extend as prev gen Contacts more prone to sweat corrosion than prev gen Bleeps not so audible as prev gen. Hard to fit under some cuffs Temptation to over-complicated training and logging with both speed zones and heart zones
[Update 13/08/07] The clip for connecting to the laptop is not as firm as previous gen - this is how I suspect I zapped a laptop previously - either that or it drew too much current when new and not charged
Overall: Were it not for the fact that it totally zapped my laptop on connection to USB for the first time, I would find no serious problems. Now I'm waiting to see whether I need a new motherboard. (Ratings exclude this problem.)
[Update 13/08/07] I recently took my heart in my hands and reconnected to a new laptop. This time, I made sure it was fully charged from the mains before connecting; secondly, I made sure that the clip/holder was not disturbed during connection. Success!
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