newBalance

MD800 Evaluation Review

¥22,000(including tax)
  • A lightweight model for middle-distance spikes
    An ultra-lightweight model weighing 126g for 26cm (one foot)
  • A fit that feels like barefoot, similar to tabi shoes
    A soft and stretchy upper that fits the foot
  • Highly breathable upper
    Made with highly breathable materials that do not cause sweating in summer
  • Soft sole
    A soft sole plate and midsole like running shoes
  • Front-heavy design suitable for forefoot running
    A strong slope in the sole assists with a natural front-heavy position
Spike Name
MD800
Price
22,000 (including tax)
Weight
126g (26.0cm one foot)
Applicable events
800m, 1500m, 3000m
Compatible environment
All-weather specific
Spike Pins
7mm×6
Shoelace type
With string
Upper Material
Synthetic fiber
Sole Material
Synthetic resin sole
Size
22cm ~ 29cm
Competition level
intermediate
Recommended for such people
- For middle-distance runners from 800m to 3000m who seek lightweight and a fit that feels like barefoot running  
- For middle-distance runners from 800m to 3000m who are prone to calf tightness or hamstring tightness  
- For middle-distance runners from 800m to 3000m who have issues with slowing down in the latter half  
- For middle-distance runners from 800m to 3000m who are confident in their ankle and core stability upon landing  
- For middle-distance runners from 800m to 3000m who envision forefoot landing rather than flat landing  
- For athletes who tend to slow down significantly in the latter half and want to change their race plan to minimize this slowdown  
I recommend the New Balance MD800 for athletes fitting the above descriptions.

Features

Ultra-lightweight and highly breathable upper

The MD800 uses engineered mesh as the upper material, allowing for variations in knitting for different sections, which minimizes seams while maintaining lightweight, breathability, and hold in specific areas. However, it does not provide the ground stability of the COSMORACER MD 2, focusing instead on lightweight, breathability, and fit. Therefore, it is recommended for middle-distance runners who excel in maintaining balance during landing, core and ankle stability, and during curve running. The shoelaces are made from a highly elastic material, providing a fit that conforms to the shape of the foot.
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A fit that feels like barefoot, similar to tabi shoes

The design is slim from the heel to the area around the ball of the foot. The material is highly elastic, which may make it difficult for some to put on and take off in a snug fit like wearing tights, but it offers a very strong fit. A notable feature is the absence of a supporter at the ankle opening, with the stitching reinforced to support the ankle. This allows for a high degree of freedom of movement at the ankle, creating a truly barefoot-like sensation. While stability is not extremely high, there is a supporter at the bottom of the heel that aids in landing stability.
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Cushioning like running shoes

◆ About the pins  
There are 6 pins, with a distance between the pins on the ball of the foot and the two pins at the very front, allowing for a greater sense of weight transfer towards the toes.  

◆ About the sole  
The sole is very soft and excels in flexibility rather than rebound. It is ideal for athletes who focus on the time spent in contact with the ground and who engage their toes fully. Additionally, due to its good flexibility, it reduces muscle fatigue and is reassuring from an injury prevention perspective. The ultra-lightweight midsole, known as REV LITE, used in running shoes, is also employed, providing cushioning similar to that of running shoes. The fit is soft, and the insole also offers a soft feel.
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Sole incline designed for forefoot runners

The slope of the sole is somewhat steep. It has a slope similar to that of spikes used in short-distance events, making it easier for the center of gravity to gather towards the toes. Additionally, the structure around the ball of the foot protrudes, making the incline more noticeable. Therefore, it tends to be preferred by those who are more forefoot runners rather than those with a strong awareness of flat landing. Considering the tendency of pin placement, it is an excellent match for those envisioning a forefoot running style. If you want a slightly reduced slope and a more flat-oriented feel, models like the COSMORACER MD 2 or Chrono Dist 7 may be suitable, so it would be good to try those as well.
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