Details
Brand
Newton
Heel To Toe Drop
3mm
Breathability
7.9/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Racing
Key Features
• 5 evenly-spaced lugs distribute weight to the entire foot• Enhanced medial midsole platform increases running efficiency• Super High Abrasion Rubber Compound (SHARC) ensures shock absorption and durability• Mesh fabric construction for the upper section• Lugs have fallen off soles in the past• Slightly heavier than previous Newton models• Reasonably priced, with women’s versions costing less on average• Metatarsal sensor plate allows runners to accurately feel the ground they run on• 3.0 mm drop favors midsole strikes, natural running habits
Upper
The upper section of these running shoes mostly consists of a very lightweight mesh fabric. In addition to reducing the weight of these shoes, this material is very well ventilated, meaning your foot will still receive adequate airflow. For long distance running, this level of breathing ability is essential in order to prevent smelly or swampy feet. Newton recognizes this, and the Gravity III’s design accommodates this concern, while still featuring a slick design and a low profile. In addition to offering terrific durability and ventilation, the upper portion of these shoes is visually appealing.
Midsole
The Newton Gravity III has an enhanced medial midsole platform. The purpose of this is to improve efficiency with each foot movement, favoring strikes to the midsole while still compensating for the rogue heel strike. In addition to this, it also provides cushion and shock absorption, thanks to the extra material used over previous Newton running shoes. The enhanced midsole also serves as a stylistic statement, differentiating these shoes from similar products on the market. The end result is a running shoe with form and function: looking good and feeling good.
Outsole
The Gravity III’s outsole has a very high density, higher than previous models of running shoes. This allows them to better absorb shock when impacting the ground. Its symmetrical design ensures even weight distribution with proper foot strikes, and the five lugs on its forefoot provide a more natural feel than its predecessors. Newton proudly states that their forefoot is made of a Super High Abrasion Rubber Compound, or SHARC. As a result, these shoes are comfortable and shock-absorbent over multiple types of terrain, as well as being very durable.
Breathability
As previously mentioned, the upper portion of this shoe is designed to allow for superior airflow. It is mainly constructed with a mesh fabric, and the numerous small holes allow for the flow of air and the prevention of sweat. In addition, the tongue, heel tab, and heel counter are all designed to provide excellent ventilation for the ankle and lower leg, while still offering superior support and a low profile. If breathability is an important factor for your ideal running shoe, the Newton Gravity III is a terrific pick, thanks to its mesh fabric and low profile.
Comfort
Since these shoes are designed to be worn for long running sessions, comfort is a top priority for Newton. The shock absorbing capabilities in the midsole and outsole of the Gravity III contributes greatly to this, but there are also other factors at play. Inside the shoe is a “Bio-mechanical Metatarsal Sensor Plate,” which is meant to help you feel the road at your feet. This makes it feel more natural when running with these shoes, almost as if you aren’t wearing shoes at all! In addition, the mesh material forming the upper offers cushion as well as ventilation, so there are additional benefits to its design.
Style
Color choices for the Newton Gravity III are limited, with only one possible color scheme for each gender. Men’s version has a yellow and red palette, while the women’s model has a pink and yellow style. The look isn’t very different from other bright neon running shoes available, but a wider selection of colors would have been nice. Aside from the color, the shape and form of the Gravity III’s are sleek and aerodynamic, being functional as well as fashionable. While style is not the main focus of these running shoes, the Newton Gravity III is still a presentable shoe.
Durability
Some customers have complained that the lugs on the outsole of these shoes have a tendency to fall off after extended use. This is a rare occurrence and these can be reattached with little fuss. However, some customers may still find this as a cause for concern. Other than that, these shoes offer terrific durability over long distances, making them great for marathons and triathlons. The extra cushion on the midsole and the metatarsal sensor plate provide exceptional comfort for your foot, and they will last longer under extended contact with the ground.
Protection
The even distribution of weight from the 5 lugs on the outsole provide protection from strains and aches overextended running periods. In addition, the metatarsal sensor will help you get a better feel for the ground, allowing you to avoid any bumps or rocks that can cause foot pain. Finally, the enhanced medial midsole, in addition to increased running efficiency, offers more shock absorption that protects you from shin splints or other debilitating stress injuries. In essence, protection from the elements, poor running form, and excessive sweating can be expected with the Newton Gravity III.
Responsiveness
One of the main things these running shoes were designed to enhance is the overall responsiveness. This can be seen most clearly with the metatarsal sensor, which is designed to give your feet increased awareness of the ground you run on. In addition, the extra cushion in the midsole and evenly distributed lugs ensure the Newton Gravity III responds effectively to your running movements, compensating for foot pressure on impact. For these reasons, Newton has designed some of the most responsive running shoes on the market!
Support
Another key aspect of these running shoes is their support. Nearly every design decision made for the Gravity III’s is in the interest of providing better support. The evenly-distributed lugs spread pressure across the whole foot, preventing focused strains on the heel or midsole. The enhanced medial midsole, in addition to shock absorption, provides heel and arch support. Finally, the upper shoe design makes for a tighter fit around the ankle, preventing the shoe from shifting and throwing off all these support benefits.
Terrain
As is to be expected, the same features that give the Newton Gravity III’s excellent support and responsiveness allow it to handle various levels of terrain when running. Of particular note is the metatarsal sensor plate, which makes it easier to get a feel for the surfaces you run on while wearing them. These are not the best shoes for rough terrain like dirt or wilderness, but asphalt, concrete, and running tracks are ideal for these shoes. Due to the extra sensitivity of the metatarsal sensor, rocks and cracks in the ground can cause pain in these shoes.
Price
Prices range depending on what size of shoe you plan on getting, whether you’re purchasing a men’s pair or a women’s pair, and what retailer you purchase from. For the most part, a new pair of the Gravity III’s will cost below $100, and women’s will cost a bit less than men’s. On average, prices for either gender are the same, but a marginal discount can be found if you’re looking for women’s sizes. Customers shouldn’t have to break the bank in order to obtain a pair of these shoes, although some shopping around may be necessary in order to get the best deal.
Drop
The Newton Gravity III has a 3.0 mm drop between the height of the heel and the forefoot. This is meant specifically to give a more natural feel and lends to the overall comfort. This relatively shallow drop favors the midsole when striking the ground, while still offering a bit of cushion in the event of an accidental heel strike. This is what makes these running shoes feel more natural to use, coupled with the metatarsal sensor plate in the insole. Runners prone to frequent heel strikes would benefit from a different shoe, but more natural runners will appreciate this design aspect of the Gravity III’s.
Stability
The design of these shoes is meant for even distribution of weight and impact across the entire foot. This adds to the overall stability of the shoe and can help maintain balance when running on uneven terrain. The construction of these running shoes is relatively stable, with the exception of the lugs on the outsole that tend to fall off. These are not the most stable running shoes on the market, but they are a far cry from the least stable. Proper balance, conditioning and running form are still required when using these running shoes stably.
Flexibility
An unfortunate tradeoff to the extra cushion and weight distribution of these shoes is a severely limited flexibility. With so much extra material in the midsole and outsole, not to mention the 5 separate lugs, the Gravity III’s are very rigid. Do not expect these shoes to bend when you run. They will protect your feet from extended abuse, but this comes at the cost of a flexible shoe. Some bend is still possible closer to the toes, but it will require extra force than other styles of running shoes. This is what makes the Newton Gravity III ideal for experienced runners: proper running form is necessary in order to get the most out of them.
Traction
Traction is not the main selling point of these shoes, as they are meant more for durability over long running periods. This means that the Newton Gravity III’s are only meant to be used in standard running environments, like roads and sidewalks. In these environments, they provide adequate traction, with the main focus being sensitivity and emphasizing proper running form. However, dirt paths and mountain trails are better suited for hiking boots or mountain boots. These shoes can be used in rougher environments, but the likelihood of strain or injury is higher than when used on smoother, man-made surfaces.
Bottom Line
The Newton Gravity III is a shoe designed for a specific kind of runner and is designed to be used in a specific kind of environment. If you’re looking for a pair of shoes to run a marathon in or to train for one, this is a terrific pair. If you’re an experienced runner, these shoes will enhance your natural running ability. If you’re a less experienced runner, or if you wish to run on rougher surfaces, these are not the ideal shoes for you. For the most part, the most passionate runners and athletes will get the most out of these shoes.
