Weight 220gEvaluation The Sock Flame is so cushioned and – relatively – stable that it could just about pass for a performance trainer. That’s because it uses a one-piece midsole/outsole unit that eliminates the need for heavy outsole rubber

Weight 209gEvaluation Think of the Speed Racer as the more basic alternative to Nike’s Air Sock Flame – which is a brutal thing to say, as Reebok perfected the outsole-free technology that both shoes use years ago. Both shoes have cushioning that

Weight 315gEvaluation When the Presto was first introduced more than a year ago, it was a natural partner to the Air Kukini, another sock-like shoe. The Kukini was discontinued, but Nike combined the best of both shoes into a new one, the Presto

the rearfoot into the front of the shoe as well. It also has a one-piece stretch-fit upper with an inner sock, which some weartesters found slightly restrictive. Although the shoe is roughly the same weight (360g) as before, it does feel more cushioned

Weight 401gEvaluation There are so many good motion control shoes from the big brands that smaller running companies like Fila are reallyhaving to carve their own niche. The challenge is to make shoes that are different but still highly functional

. 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

Weight 155gEvaluation We bet you didn’t know you needed a pair of these beauties. (We also bet you won’t be able to find them in many running shops near you.) They’re sprinters’ training shoes, for those days when you need to do 8 x 200m on a track

We've reviewed a newer version since we published this.Weight 304gEvaluation The Salomon XA Series is a racing flat for the trail market. Instead of a heavy, element-protected upper, you get a lightweight, highly-breathable, sock-like affair

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for a smooth ride, and there’s little midfoot stability in the upper. As for training in the wet: forget it. Unless you want your socks to be instantly soaked, this is a dry-weather shoe only. In short Full marks to Adidas for innovation