Details
Brand
Newton
Heel To Toe Drop
4 mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Carbon Rubber in the outsole adds a high level of durability• The Action/Reaction Technology promotes energy return and reduces premature fatigue• Traditional EVA midsole foam provides a springy ride• Enhanced sockliner adds an extra layer of cushioning and extra comfort for the runner
Upper
The closed mesh of the Newton Sir Isaac offers some pros and cons to the runner. The downside is that, because it is a closed mesh, it doesn’t offer breathability that is as good as some other models. However, the material is lightweight and does allow some airflow to keep the foot cool and dry. The upside is that the closed mesh protects the runner from road debris that can get into the shoe and create discomfort and distractions. In addition, the upper comes with an Enhanced Sock Liner. This sockliner adds extra cushioning and comfort and adds more spring to each step. There is also added stitched overlays on the upper to create a customizable fit that can be loosed or tightened through the lacing system.
Midsole
This shoe features a more traditional EVA midsole foam. This provides a springy feeling, and runners reported that they loved the high responsiveness that this single layer of EVA foam provided them. This shoe also offers a higher level of support through the midfoot. It keeps the foot stable and reduces unwanted movement, allowing one to focus on improving their form and gait.
Outsole
The Sir Isaac has Carbon rubber in its outsole. Carbon rubber is the same material used in racecar tires, so it is extremely durable and designed to protect the rest of the shoe from wear and tear. The Carbon rubber outsole also gives the shoe a high level of traction that other shoes in this category don’t provide. In addition to the high durability of the carbon rubber, the underfoot design of this shoe offers beveled lugs and Newton’s patented Action/Reaction technology. These features create superior grip and promote forward movement. Runners reported that these features helped them reduce fatigue and the outsole actually returns energy to the runner.
Breathability
Runners commented that the breathability of these shoes is not as good as some others in this same category. The upper of the shoe uses a closed mesh construction. This is good because it keeps the runner safe from debris on the road, but in terms of breathability, it does limit the airflow. This doesn’t mean that these shoes offer no ventilation. They do offer the runner some temperature control and runners reported that their feet did not feel too hot or uncomfortable on longer runs.
Comfort
This shoe receives high marks from runners for its added cushioning features. The upper of the shoe is made using a closed mesh which protects the foot from debris from the road. This keeps the runner comfortable and safe from unwanted debris. The midsole is made from a traditional EVA foam that adds cushion and spring to each step. Finally, the enhanced sockliner wraps the foot, creating a glove-like feeling. It also features stitched overlays that allow the runner to customize their fit.
Style
Newton shoes are known for their stylish aesthetics, but the Sir Isaacs fall short of the signature look of their brand. Runners reported that the shoe lacked the flair that they have come to expect from the Newton line, and while most of their shoes are brightly colored, the Sir Isaac’s primary color is white.
Durability
The outsole of this shoe features Carbon rubber, which is an extremely durable material. This rubber prevents wear and tear and protects the rest of the shoe by absorbing shock and deflecting road debris. Additionally, the outsole features a unique beveled lug system that protects the rest of the shoe from breaking down too quickly. The traditional EVA foam is known to stand up against long, tough miles. The closed mesh of the upper is also more durable than some other materials and runners reported that it helped the upper of the shoe stay newer looking longer. All in all, runners were happy with the durability offered in this shoe.
Protection
These shoes are best at protecting runners from injury inducing gaits. The shoe is designed to help runners who struggle with pronation issues. If a foot is turning inward too much, it can cause discomfort and pain over time. In addition, the upper of the shoe is made from a closed mesh and includes stitched overlays. Both of these provide protection to the runner from the elements of the road. The upper of the shoe is also water resistant. Between the water-resistant upper and the added traction in the outsole, runners liked this shoe for adventure in the rain or snow.
Responsiveness
Newton prides themselves on creating ultra responsive shoes. The midsole and outsole are cushioned enough so that they are very comfortable, but they are not so plush that it feels like running on s squishy pillow. Runners used the words “springy” and “bouncy” to describe the fit of the Sir Isaac. The forefoot Action/Reaction Technology absorbs energy from the road and sends it back into the foot. Runners reported feeling very connected to the road, and because of the flex grooves of the outsole, the shoe is also quite flexible.
Support
Runners reported that this is a very supportive shoe. The traditional EVA midsole foam is firm with comfortable cushioning. It also comes with a forefoot Action/Reaction Technology that provides pronation support to the runner. The shoe limits the inward rolling of the foot to improve a runner’s overall gait and reduce the potential for long-term injury. In addition to the supportive midsole, the upper of the shoe features stitched overlays to keep the foot in place and provide a snug, comfortable, and customizable fit for the runner.
Terrain
This is a shoe that is suggested for road running. while there are many great trail shoes out there, this shoe is not a shoe for your extreme off-road adventures. The underfoot does come with flex grooves and added traction, so a groomed trail wouldn’t be an impossible option, but overall, this shoe excels on roads so you’ll want to stick with that.
Price
Every runner has a budget, and it is important to find a shoe that you and your budget are comfortable with. There are lots of great shoes on the market that are very affordable, but the Sir Isaac falls at the higher end some runner’s budgets. With an MSRP of $150, this shoe is about thirty dollars higher than the average price for a quality running shoe. It is worth noting, however, that runners did comments on the durability of these shoes. They do last longer than some of their less expensive counterparts, so they can be seen as an investment.
Drop
Something that sets the Sir Issac apart from other shoes is that it is both supportive and offers a low heel drop. At 4 mm, the heel drop of this shoe places it in the minimalist category. With enough weight and cushioning to support the runner, but a lower drop to promote a natural gait, this shoe is certainly unique in its design.
Stability
For the runner in search of a good stability shoe, the Sir Isaac might be a great choice. From the upper to the outsole, the shoe offers a variety of stability features to help keep the runner’s foot secure and free from unwanted movement. The upper features stitched overlays that hug the foot and secure it in place. The midsole features a midfoot technology called Action/Reaction that responds to movements in the foot, but also helps the runner maintain correct form. The outsole of the shoe is flexible, but the low drop keeps the foot close to the road. The lugs that are spread through the forefoot and midfoot offer a more stable landing space, too. Another unique feature of the midsole of the shoe is the Chassis/Shank material that adds additional stability for the runner.
Flexibility
The deep flex grooves found in the outsole of these shoes make this a very flexible shoe. The flexibility adds to the amazing all-around responsiveness of the shoe and also promotes a natural gait.
Traction
The carbon rubber outsole isn’t only durable, it also offers a higher level of traction to runners. Runners reported feeling protected and confident regardless of the road conditions because of the gripping underfoot of the Sir Isaac. Some runners even commented that they felt safe running in the rain or snow in these shoes.
Bottom Line
The Sir Isaac is a neutral running shoe that offers extra stability and support. It is cushioned through the midsole and runners love the responsive, energy returning features that help stave off fatigue. Although the upper is made from a solid mesh, it still provides enough breathability to keep the runner comfortable on their long runs. Due to the weight and added support, this has not been reviewed as a fast shoe. The look of these shoes is more classically appealing, rather than being highly trendy or flashy. With impressive main features like the Action/Reaction Technology and a highly responsive midsole, to small details like a highly secure lacing system, the Sir Isaac is a top quality, supportive shoe.
