Josh ran a 1K treadmill time trial in his 5 best daily trainers and captured performance data using @strydrunning power pods
To keep it simple:
- Lower Power = more efficient effort
- Lower Impact (ILR) = softer on the legs
- Lower GCT = quicker, snappier ride
Results by Shoe:
Mizuno Neo Zen 2
- Power: 234W
- Impact (ILR): 63
- GCT: 218ms
- Smooth and controlled cruiser
- Best for: easy daily miles
Nike Vomero Plus
- Power: 236W
- Impact (ILR): 64
- GCT: 216ms
- Reliable cushion, slightly less efficient here
- Best for: comfort-focused training
New Balance 880 v15
- Power: 234W
- Impact (ILR): 57 (softest landing)
- GCT: 211ms
- Protective workhorse built for consistency
- Best for: high-mileage weeks
adidas Evo SL
- Power: 237W (highest effort)
- Impact (ILR): 71 (harshest impact)
- GCT: 209ms (snappiest ride)
- Fast and aggressive, but least forgiving
- Best for: speed sessions
HOKA Mach 6
- Power: 234W
- Impact (ILR): 57 (soft + efficient)
- GCT: 212ms
- Best balance of protection + responsiveness
- Best for: daily training with tempo potential
The Mach 6 delivered the most complete mix of efficiency + comfort.
The 880 v15 stood out as the most protective workhorse.
And the Evo SL felt the quickest, but also the toughest on the legs.
Which daily trainer are your favourites at the moment, and which shoe should we test next? 👇