Loop-lacing lockThis is a great way to create a secure, tight fit. Just put each lace end back into the same hole it just exited, leaving a small loop on the top side of the shoe; now thread each loose end through the loop on the opposite side

. The midsole ride is soft, smooth and similar to that of the Concerto, with the addition of a rearfoot Adiprene cushioning insert, but the main difference is in the upper. This is like a mesh sock held snug in the midfoot and forefoot by a clever lacing system

. The lacing system has mercifully reverted to a normal one for a snugger fit, but you should replace the shoe’s cheap, extra-padded insole with a normal, more responsive one. Even then, its heel sits fairly high off the ground – good for rearfoot cushioning

Feet feeling fragile? Flick fast forthwith...Feet, in our Best of Heath & Injury forumFeet, in our Injuries A-Z sectionFeet, in our Q&A sectionOur shoe section, including...How to find the right shoe, andHow to lace your shoes properly

's certainly one of the most stable performance shoes available. The post is helped by a low-profile heel and NB's N-Lock lacing system - the N on the side locks the arch in through the laces for a tighter fit. The midsole is made from the firm's new

strap, which integrates into the laces.

Experian Robin Hood Marathon, Nottingham: Sunday, September 15WHY RUN IT?Speed, atmosphere, sights, lace panel mementoThe 22nd running of this reasonably quick two-lap route from the Victoria Embankment (with a different, flatter second lap

Stability Web in the midfoot, the 750 is one of the most supportive racers available. The shoe also utilises New Balance's N-Lock lacing system, so the upper can be pulled snugly around your midfoot for extra support. Of course, we aren't talking motion

popularity with triathletes by fitting a continuous loop lace with a built-in lace lock for speed (which frankly is too long and best cut down). It’s certainly a decent fast-paced marathon racer for efficient Ironman athletes, though it would be too heavy

’s typically wide base, the new Stabil has an extremely broad fit in the upper. That makes the feel of the shoe slightly unbalanced. The loop lacing system doesn’t allow runners with moderate-width feet to pull the laces really close together; but on the other