Wednesday, March 9, 2011

I love you Pearl iZUMi Streak II ...

A few weeks back, the nice people at Outside PR gave me the opportunity to test some of the new product line from their client, Pearl iZUMi. When the package arrived, I was in heaven. Because inside was the Infinity IN-R-COOL LS, the Infinity LD Short (more on those pieces in another post) and the Streak II ...

Ah. The Streak II. I was so very hesitant to try them at first. My current shoes have treated me so well. But look at the Streak II. They are beautiful.

And the specs were appealing.
  • 1:1 Seamless Upper creates an unparalleled fit with a seam-free interior
  • 1:1 360° Lacing anatomically conforms to the foot for a tailored fit regardless of foot shape
  • NEW 1:1 Energy Foam cushions the forefoot upon impact and then returns energy back to the runner
  • Outsole-grade EVA and blown rubber outsole combines for great cushioning and weight savings
  • Segmented forefoot for a smooth, efficient ride
  • NEW Ortholite® sockliner for amazing step-in comfort and long-lasting cushioning
  • NEW 100% recycled lace webbing and laces
  • Heel/Toe offset: 19.0mm/10.0mm
And Pearl iZUMi says that "This is your go to PR shoe."

But, was it all true. I had to see for myself. So, that's what I did. Remember that 22 miler I ran last week? Well, the first seven miles of that long run were logged in these shoes. And from step number one, I WAS IN LOVE. And here's why.

The Streak II, which retail for $110, are perhaps the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. (Note: I needed to size up one full size from my normal running shoes.) Lightweight and minimalistic, with a large toe box, these trainers reminded me of running in slippers. I could feel my foot hitting the treadmill bed, without feeling unsupported. I instantly became more aware of my form and foot strike and was running with ease. I have no doubt that the Streak II will become my new race day shoe.

With that said, I do have one concern with the Streak II. As a larger runner (150+ lbs), I tend to burn through my shoes rather quickly (250-300 miles). I fear that although Pearl iZUMi says that you can train in these shoes, I would not be able to get as much mileage out of them due to the minimalist design. Obviously, I won't know for another 200+ miles or so, but I am interested to find out. But for now, the Streak II get my seal of approval ...

Note: I was sent these items free of charge to review. However, the opinions are solely mine.

24 comments:

Running Ricig said...

so awesome! I love the top!

are you planning another long run for today? just need to know if I need to keep up ;)

Lisa said...

I run in Pearl Izumi Floats. They definitely aren't comfortable but they have completely fixed my shin splints and knee pain. I'm a VERY big runner and they don't last nearly as long as other brands of shoes.

The Streak's ARE beautiful!!!

KovasP said...

The men's is a cool fluorescent green and like you, I had to go up a size. Love them so far!

Unknown said...

I guess, technically, you are a larger runner. I just laughed when you typed that, I don't see you that way at all!

Carly said...

I really like the color. :-) I think I would have similar concerns with those shoes.

Rachel said...

Oohh.. they are so pretty!!! I am needing some new shoes. Maybe I should check these out.. can you get them in a running store?

AbigailRuns said...

Those are so nice! I'm so jealous!

Anonymous said...

Wow those are PURTTEEE!!!

Stefanie D. said...

Ooooh! They are so pretty!! They look really lightweight.

BigHappyFamily said...

Pretty shoes... great opportunity. I am never a risk taker with shoes. I always just rebuy the same ones that I know work for me.

Stephanie F said...

These look heavenly.

Kurt @ Becoming An Ironman said...

I've got so much Pearl Izumi gear and I love it all, but I had no idea they made shoes! Looks like I've got some research to do.

Glad to hear they worked well. I'd be concerned about the same issue though. I run a lot of pavement this time of year while the trails and grass is covered with snow, so I have to keep an eye on how fast shoes wear down.

I'll check them out though - thanks for the review!!

Leah F said...

I'm mostly a Brooks girl, but nothing can make me give up my Pearl Izumi vest. It's one of my favorite pieces.

Runners Fuel said...

Nice!

Unknown said...

I likee!

Marlene said...

Those are awesome kicks! Hope they don't wear out too fast on you!

Rose @ Eat, Drink, and Be Meiri said...

Those shoes are CUTE!

Jess @ Blonde Ponytail said...

Nice haul!! I saw your awesome tweet about the 22 miler!

I think we need a pic of you in the gear though!! ;)

Shellyrm ~ just a country runner said...

Looks like some great gear.

I don't know about you but I always feel like treadmills eat my shoes faster than the road. I usually use older shoes on the mill and save newer ones for the trail and road. I will be interested to see how they hold up for you.

Shellyrm ~ just a country runner said...

Any reason you switched shoes after the first 7 miles? Because they were new?

SupermomE13 said...

Glad you like them! I have been contemplating getting a more minimal shoe for racing, but then worry about the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" and don't know if I want to mess with things since I have been doing lots of miles and have been injury free (I run in brooks ravenna 2's, a fairly light, slightly supportive shoe)
Hope these work for you, and you certainly are NOT a large runner!!! :)

Laurie said...

Great looking shoes. Glad they felt good for you.

Unknown said...

I've seen those shoes and I love them! :) So lucky to get the free gear to try!

Courtney @ I CAN DO THIS said...

The shoes sound awesome! Do you think one could train for a marathon in them?