Newton Kismet

Review Score
83%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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Newton Kismet: Review

β€œA stability shoe that offers a unique and responsive ride for daily runners.”

Overview


The Newton Kismet is a stability running shoe designed for those who seek a responsive and supportive ride. This shoe is part of the Newton Kismet family and stands out with its distinctive forefoot technology.

Key Features:

  • Responsive Ride: The shoe's sole features unique raised lugs that promote a high energy return and encourage a fore/midfoot strike.
  • Stability Support: A firm post on the medial side provides stability for runners who overpronate.
  • Lightweight and Breathable Upper: The seamless upper construction offers comfort and breathability, suitable for various weather conditions.

The Newton Kismet is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a responsive ride and stability for their daily training. Its unique sole design offers a distinct running experience, making it suitable for those looking to improve their running technique with a focus on midfoot striking.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 83%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Newton Kismet


The Newton Kismet is recognized for its unique and responsive ride, making it a favorite among runners who appreciate a shoe that supports a fore/midfoot strike. The shoe's raised lugs are a defining feature, providing a high energy return that encourages an efficient running form. While the Kismet offers stability, it may not be the most supportive option for those with significant overpronation or who require a lot of cushioning. The breathable and lightweight upper is a plus, offering comfort during runs in various conditions. However, the shoe does have a longer break-in period, especially for those new to the brand, and the laces may require attention as they tend to stretch and come untied. Overall, the Newton Kismet is a solid choice for advanced runners seeking a fast trainer with a touch of stability, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. For those in search of a shoe with a distinctive design and moderate stability, the Kismet is worth considering.

Updates to Newton Kismet


The Newton Kismet continues to evolve within the Newton Kismet line, maintaining its commitment to providing a responsive and stable running experience. The latest updates focus on enhancing the shoe's comfort and performance, with improvements to the upper's breathability and the midsole's cushioning. Runners familiar with previous models will appreciate the refinements that keep the Kismet at the forefront of Newton's offerings.

Comparable Shoes


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The ASICS GT 2000 11 is a stability shoe that offers a more traditional ride compared to the Newton Kismet. It provides ample cushioning and support for overpronators, making it a good alternative for those who find the Kismet's unique lugs and midsole design to be too drastic a departure from conventional running shoes.

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The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is another popular stability shoe that runners might compare with the Newton Kismet. The Adrenaline GTS 21 features a more traditional cushioning system and does not have the forefoot lugs that characterize the Kismet. It's a suitable option for runners seeking a softer ride and more robust stability features.

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The Saucony Guide 14 is a competitor in the stability shoe category, offering a balance of cushioning and support. While it lacks the distinctive lugs of the Newton Kismet, the Guide 14 provides a smooth and stable ride for runners who prefer a more conventional shoe design.

5 Newton Kismet Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Offers a unique and responsive ride with raised lugs for energy return.
Provides stability support with a firm medial post for mild overpronation.
Features a breathable and lightweight upper for comfort in various conditions.

2 Cons

Has a longer break-in period, especially for newcomers to Newton's technology.
Laces may stretch and come untied, potentially requiring replacement.

In Depth


Upper

The Newton Kismet's upper is designed with breathability and comfort in mind. The seamless construction ensures a smooth fit, reducing the risk of irritation during long runs. The upper material is lightweight and handles moisture well, making it suitable for hot and humid conditions. While the fit is somewhat snug, the toe box provides ample room, and the heel counter offers a secure lock-in, preventing slippage. However, the laces may require replacement as they have a tendency to stretch and come undone.

Midsole

At the heart of the Newton Kismet's midsole is the brand's signature lug system, which promotes a responsive and energetic ride. The POP2 (Point of Power) lugs are designed to be less rigid, making them more accessible to those new to Newton's technology. A firm medial post provides stability for runners who experience mild overpronation. The midsole's design encourages runners to land on their forefoot, which can lead to a period of adjustment for those accustomed to traditional running shoes.

Outsole

The outsole of the Newton Kismet features durable materials that offer reliable traction on road surfaces. The arrangement of the lugs aligns with the metatarsals, supporting the natural anatomy of the foot. This design contributes to the shoe's unique ride, focusing on forefoot striking and propulsion. While the outsole is built to last, runners should note that the lugs may require a break-in period to fully appreciate their benefits.

Size/fit

The Newton Kismet offers a fit that is true to size, with a snug midfoot and a roomy toe box. The upper adapts well to the shape of the foot, providing a secure and comfortable fit. Runners with wider feet may find the fit a bit tight, so trying on the shoe before purchasing is recommended. The heel counter ensures a locked-in feel, reducing the chances of heel slippage during runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a key aspect of the Newton Kismet, with a breathable and seamless upper that conforms to the foot. The shoe's cushioning is balanced, offering enough protection without compromising the responsive feel of the ride. The wide tongue helps distribute pressure evenly when lacing up, adding to the overall comfort. However, the break-in period can be a challenge for some, as the unique sole design may initially cause discomfort in the calves and hamstrings.

Cushioning

The Newton Kismet provides a level of cushioning that balances responsiveness with protection. The midsole's POP2 lugs contribute to the shoe's energetic feel, while the stability features ensure that cushioning does not come at the expense of support. Runners looking for a plush, highly cushioned experience may find the Kismet's cushioning to be on the firmer side, but it is adequate for daily training and longer runs.

Breathability

With a focus on keeping feet cool and dry, the Newton Kismet's upper is made from a breathable mesh that allows for ample airflow. This makes the shoe a good option for running in warmer weather or for runners whose feet tend to overheat. The materials used in the upper also dry quickly, which is beneficial for those who run in damp conditions or get caught in the rain.

Stability

Stability is one of the Newton Kismet's strong suits, thanks to the medial post that provides support for overpronators. The shoe's design encourages a natural running gait, with a focus on midfoot striking. While the stability features are present, they are not overly intrusive, making the Kismet suitable for runners who need a moderate level of support without the bulk of traditional stability shoes.

Durability

Durability is a hallmark of the Newton Kismet, with a robust outsole that withstands the wear and tear of daily running. The quality of the materials used in the upper and the construction of the shoe contribute to its longevity. Runners can expect the Kismet to hold up well over many miles, maintaining its performance and comfort over time.

Grip

The Newton Kismet's outsole provides a reliable grip on road surfaces, ensuring confidence during runs. The lugs not only contribute to the shoe's unique ride but also offer traction that performs well in various conditions. Whether running on dry pavement or wet roads, the Kismet's grip helps maintain stability and control.

Who should buy the Newton Kismet?


The Newton Kismet is best suited for runners who are looking for a shoe that offers both responsiveness and stability. It's particularly beneficial for those interested in improving their running technique, with a focus on midfoot striking. The shoe's unique lug system and firm medial post make it a good option for runners with mild overpronation or those who want to transition to a more natural running form. Advanced runners who need a fast trainer with a dash of stability will find value in the Kismet.

Who should not buy the Newton Kismet?


Runners who require a highly cushioned shoe with maximum support for severe overpronation may not find the Newton Kismet to be the best fit. Those who prefer a traditional running shoe without the unique forefoot lugs or who are not interested in adjusting their running form should consider other options. Additionally, runners with very wide feet might find the Kismet's snug fit to be restrictive.

Newton Kismet: What's it good for?


The Newton Kismet is well-suited for road running and is an excellent choice for daily training. Its stability features and responsive cushioning make it a strong contender for runners who engage in speed workouts and longer runs. The shoe's design encourages a midfoot strike, which can be beneficial for those looking to improve their running form.

4 Newton Kismet FAQs


How does the Newton Kismet's lug system affect the running experience?

The Newton Kismet's lug system is designed to enhance the running experience by promoting a fore/midfoot strike and providing a high energy return. This encourages a more efficient running form and can lead to improvements in running technique over time.

Is the Newton Kismet suitable for runners with wide feet?

The Newton Kismet offers a snug fit that may not be ideal for runners with very wide feet. It's recommended to try on the shoe before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.

Can the Newton Kismet be used for long-distance running?

Yes, the Newton Kismet is suitable for long-distance running, thanks to its balance of responsiveness and stability. However, runners should be aware of the break-in period and ensure they are comfortable with the shoe's unique design before embarking on longer runs.

How durable is the Newton Kismet?

The Newton Kismet is built with durability in mind, featuring a robust outsole and high-quality materials in the upper. Runners can expect the shoe to withstand the demands of daily training over many miles.

Newton Kismet alternatives

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Released
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productAthletes
Pro athlete users
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Rebecca Mehra
Weight
Weight
M: 275 g
W: 232 g
M: 298 g
W: 244 g
M: 269 g
W: 224 g
M: 227 g
W: 193 g
M: 275 g
W: 235 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
M: 24 mm
W: 23 mm
28 mm
28 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
5 mm
3 mm
5 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
M: 29 mm
W: 28 mm
33 mm
36 mm
Brand
Brand
Newton
HokaNewtonNew BalanceHokaASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Low dropMaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalistComfortable
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
OrthoLite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
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Newton Kismet: what the experts say (1 review)

Newton Kismet characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNewton (+16)
Support TypeStability (+209)
Pronation TypeOverpronation (+195)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)
Arch TypeLow arch (+201)
ColorwaysBlack, Blue, Blue / Orange, Blue / Yellow, Green, Green / Yellow, Red
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Jun 2018
Measurements
Weight
M: 275 g
W: 232 g
Heel to toe drop
5 mm

Evolution of the Newton Kismet product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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