Details
Brand
Newton
Heel To Toe Drop
5 mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• An excellent stability shoe that still retains some drop without going full-on minimalist• Loaded with proprietary technology that enhances performance• Breathable upper and thin EVA midsole keeps the foot dry and cool and the weight down• Excellent traction thanks to the foot-shaped lugs on the outsole• Sturdy Sharc rubber outsole is highly durable
Upper
The Kismet 3’s upper is made of open mesh that provides an excellent amount of ventilation to keep the foot cool and dry throughout a run. With overlays that criss-cross the upper to give it structure and allow for maximum breathability, the Kismet 3’s upper is light while also protecting the runner’s foot. Its traditional lace -up closure secures the foot for a snug but comfortable fit.
Midsole
One reason Newton is so distinct compared to other running shoes is the large amount of proprietary technology they use. Case in point is the midsole of the Kismet 3: outfitted with Newton’s P.O.P. 2 (Point of Power 2) technology, which delivers a bounce back with each step, the Kismet 3’s midsole is built with comfort and performance in mind. A thin slice of EVA foam adds to this cushioning, and the Action/Reaction technology, in which the midsole works in conjunction with the outsole’s lugs during compression and flexing, absorbs the shock of each impact, providing a great amount of energy release with each step. A metatarsal plate in the forefoot also aids in overall control and further protects the foot.
Outsole
A signature of Newton’s brand is their Action/Reaction technology, much of which is found in their unique outsole configuration. The Kismet 3 features this tech, which can be seen in the beveled lugs (which are tapered to provide a smoother ride) in the forefoot of the outsole. Working as a responsive cushioning system, these lugs provide quicker bounce-back with each strike, resulting in less lost energy than with traditional running shoe outsole configurations. Made of durable Sharc rubber compound, the traction found on the outsole is noticeable, and runners will feel the difference once they hit the road in the Kismet 3.
Breathability
As every runner knows, a shoe that lacks ventilation can affect performance and all-around enjoyment of the pursuit of running. Thanks to the Kismet 3’s upper mesh, runners won’t have to worry about this: its open mesh weave allows for air to enter the foot chamber without restriction, which will keep the foot cool and dry on a run.
Comfort
Learning from its mistakes from the Newton Kismet and the Kismet 2, which were somewhat uncomfortable and slightly tight, respectively, the Kismet 3 made comfort one of its priorities in the redesign. Utilizing Newton’s P.O.P. 2 technology that adds a bit of spring to each step, its thin EVA midsole provides a great amount of comfort without adding bulk to the shoe. The Action/Reaction technology in the shoe also helps release energy with each step, working with the lugs on the bottom to absorb each footfall’s impact. In addition, a metatarsal plate in the forefoot provides comfort and support. Thanks to its relatively low drop, the Kismet 3 is also a stability shoe, which will help for those with overpronation.
Style
One thing Newton Running does well is designing a shoe that is unmistakably Newtons. Brightly colored for high 360° visibility in low-light conditions. Similar in some ways to Asics in looks, with contrasting overlays on the upper that integrates subtle “N” trademark, the Kismet 3 is a difficult shoe to miss. However, some of the most distinctive stylistic elements are on the outsole, where few people would ever see. Which is a shame, since their outsole is where Newton’s craftsmanship really shines, particularly the lined lugs that match up with your toes. Not that anyone will miss these shoes anyway: bright, light, and out of sight, the Newton Kismet 3 is as kinetic in design as the heavy activity it hopes to inspire and facilitate.
Durability
Newton builds running shoes to last, which is an important factor for serious runners that will be putting a lot of wear on their trainers. Following this, the Kismet 3 is solidly constructed of durable materials. Its Sharc rubber outsole is made of high abrasion rubber that’s resistant to wear and the heavy impact that retains its traction long into the Kismet 3’s active life. Its EVA midsole is also highly durable and will retain its springiness and cushioning even after heavy use and remain responsive. With a synth mesh comprising the upper, overall the Kismet 3 is a shoe that runners can depend on even after many miles have passed since first step-in.
Protection
The Kismet 3’s sturdy Sharc rubber outsole is both resistant to wear and very durable. Covered with tenacious lugs, it will protect your underfoot from potential hazards found on most outdoor running surfaces. However, this is a trainer with a thin upper mesh and as such will not provide much in the way of protection to harsher elements, don’t go running through the snow or rain in these shoes. But for your daily running regimen in fair conditions, the Kismet 3 will provide the protection you need.
Responsiveness
Thanks to its thin EVA midsole and the Action/Reaction technology–in which the energy from the lugs being compressed during impact and then released through the midsole for great energy return–runners will find the responsiveness of the Kismet 3 impressive. Providing a snug fit with the foot wrapped naturally in the foot chamber, runners will appreciate its natural feel on the foot as they transition through the gait cycle.
Support
The Kismet 3 is a stability shoe, which aims to correct overpronation. Its lower drop may necessitate some adjustment, but once this is achieved, those who require a stability shoe will appreciate the support it provides. In addition, it features neutral arch support and a metatarsal plate in the forefoot for additional support.
Terrain
Made for traditional running surfaces, runners will find the Kismet 3 boosts their performance on asphalt, pavement, and on the track. Its Action/Reaction technology and tenacious lugs on the outsole provide great energy return with each lift-off on these traditional running surfaces. However, it is not meant for the trail or more extreme conditions.
Price
There are many distinct things about Newton shoes, and price is one of them: some runners may experience some sticker shock when they price a pair of Kismet 3’s (or any other Newton shoe), but with the unique technology involved, excellent quality, and craftsmanship with each pair, a serious runner will find a pair of Newtons well worth the price.
Drop
The Kismet 3 boasts of a drop of just 4.5mm, which is lower by more than half from the standard 10mm drop of most trainers. This is to help with stability and aid in correcting overpronation in one’s running style. Some runners unaccustomed to this lower drop may want to transition over a few weeks to this shoe, which is neither minimalist nor zero-drop.
Stability
The Kismet 3 is a stability shoe, which means its drop is lower by more than half from regular trainers. Those who suffer from overpronation while running will be relieved by the Kismet 3’s smart support and construction.
Flexibility
Like many of Newton’s shoes, the Kismet 3 is a highly flexible shoe. Its mesh upper and sturdy but flexible outsole provides the runner with a great amount of surface control, while its solid but thin midsole similarly provides support without ever feeling too stiff.
Traction
One look at the outsole of the Kismet 3 and runners can tell it has some serious traction. With uniquely shaped lugs that are placed and shaped just like a foot that is beveled to provide a smooth ride, runners will find a great boost in their performance thanks to the Kismet 3’s lugs.
Bottom Line
The Newton Kismet 3 is a high-end stability for serious runners that suffer from overpronation. While its price may be a little high, those who know their brands will recognize the Newton brand as one of the best smaller shoe companies on the market today. With Newton’s trademark Action/Reaction technology, serious traction thanks to its tenacious beveled lugs, and boosting one’s performance when on a run, the Newton Kismet 3 is a serious contender for one of the best stability shoes on the market. And it’s an improvement on the first two editions: with extra cushioning in the forefoot and heel for better responsiveness, a smooth ride thanks to the beveled lugs on the outsole, and an overall better fit that got rid of the tightness some of complained about from its earlier editions, it shows that Newton learns something new with each edition of a line.
