Friday, November 22, 2024
Nike Women's LunarGlide+ 4 Review
Best Feature:
Offers great cushioning & stability but is light & flexible
Worst Feature:
Dynamic Flywire support may be uncomfortable for some
Best Uses:
Women with slight/moderate over-pronation issues
Pricing:
$110 (2-yr warranty & 30-day satisfaction guarantee)
Overview
Introduced in June 2012, the Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Women's Running Shoe is the fourth iteration in LunarGlide+ series, and, like previous models, it has quickly gained popularity. In September 2012, Runner's World reviewed it as part of their Fall 2012 Shoe Guide, and the LunarGlide+ 4, or LG4, received the distinction of being the "Best Update" among the group. While the LunarGlide+ series has previously been categorized as a neutral trainer, the enhancements made to the LG4 have now made it more of a stability shoe for ladies with normal arches and mild to moderate over-pronation issues. To improve fit and support in the LG4, Nike engineers added a "reinvented" Flywire saddle that attaches to the midsole and is adjustable through the laces, so you can customize the fit and ensure that your foot is securely locked into place. To enhance the shoe's comfort and stability, the LG4's midsole now features Nike's innovative Dynamic Support technology with Lunarlon foam. The Dynamic Support system combines softer and firmer foam to prevent excessive pronation and provide responsive cushioning for smooth and powerful transitions in the gait cycle. Finally, to decrease the LG4's weight by almost 1 ounce to 8.2 ounces (size 8), Nike engineers used lighter upper materials and less rubber in the outsole.
The LG4's uppers are constructed with a single-layer engineered mesh for excellent ventilation, and they also have soft padding around the tongue and collar for additional comfort. Instead of a stiff, traditional heel counter, the LG4 has a floating heel-support clip that is anchored in the midsole and moves with the foot to control over-pronation. For durability without compromising flexibility, the outsole is crafted from BRS 1,000 carbon rubber with deep flex grooves carved into it that allows the foot to move more naturally (Nike Natural Motion Engineering). The fashion-conscious runners will be happy to know that the LG4's sleek design is available in 12 stylish color combinations. You can also customize your LG4s on Nike's website if you want something more unique or flashy. Finally, the LG4s are equipped with a Nike+ Sensor pocket below the insole on the left shoe if you want to be able to track, share and compare your runs on nikeplus.com.
You can purchase Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Women's Running Shoes online for about $110. LunarGlide+ 4 Premium shoes have additional reflectors and cost around $120. For customized LG4s, it will cost around $145.
Product Report Card Grade
We give Nike Women’s LunarGlide+ 4 running shoes an A- because they are great stability shoes for runners with mild to moderate over-pronation issues. Even combined with an excellent responsive cushioning system, the LG4s are still exceptionally lightweight and flexible. We also love that the LG4s come in a variety of fun colors and that Nike allows you to customize your own pair online. While the LG4s are well-designed running shoes, we had to deduct just a few points because some customers felt the reinvented Flywire support system put uncomfortable pressure on the top of their foot.
Date Reviewed
April 2013
March 2013
April 2013
Pros
Lightweight and comfortable; Dynamic Support system provides good stability and control for women with over-pronation issues; Lunarlon provides good responsive cushioning (one reviewer called it more "springy" than the LG3); sleek design with lots of cool off-the-shelf styles and ability to customize; Nike+ ready
Comfortable; lightweight (even lighter than the original 890s); durable; good stability for a shoe that is advertised as neutral; good responsive cushioning; REVlite is exceptionally resilient and maintains springy feel even after extended use
Lightweight and comfortable; Dynamic Support system provides good stability and control for women with over-pronation issues; Lunarlon provides good responsive cushioning (one reviewer called it more "springy" than the LG3); sleek design with lots of cool off-the-shelf styles and ability to customize; Nike+ ready
Cons
Dynamic Flywire support may be uncomfortable for some users if the cords are putting too much pressure on top of the foot.
Many complaints about the 890v2's toe box being more narrow/shallow than the original 890s; some complaints regarding discomfort at the top of foot that could be caused by the lacing system or the design of the overlay.
Dynamic Flywire support may be uncomfortable for some users if the cords are putting too much pressure on top of the foot.
Type of Running Shoe
Stability
Neutral Cushioning
Stability
Price (MSRP)
$110 (or $145 if you customize)
$110
$110 (or $145 if you customize)
Warranty
2-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects and 30-day satisfaction guarantee
30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee
2-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects and 30-day satisfaction guarantee
Weight (ounces)
8.2 (size 8)
9.2 (size 9)
10 (size 10)
Uppers
LG4s have a single-layer engineered mesh upper for improved breathability. For a secure and supportive fit, the uppers also feature Flywire saddle technology, which is basically a series of cables between the mesh and inner sleeve that are attached to the midsole and lacing system around the midfoot and arch area. Additionally, the uppers have some reflective materials to provide enhanced visibility in low light conditions.
The 890v2s have lightweight mesh uppers with a welded synthetic overlay, which enhance the shoes' breathability, support and fit. They also have an eyelet lacing system with flat laces and flat lacing holes that provide a snug, comfortable and secure fit.
The LG4s have a single-layer engineered mesh upper for improved breathability. For a secure and supportive fit, the uppers also feature Flywire saddle technology, which is basically a series of cables between the mesh and inner sleeve that are attached to the midsole and lacing system around the midfoot and arch area. Additionally, the uppers have some reflective materials to provide enhanced visibility in low light conditions.
Lining
The tongue and collar are padded for added comfort and to prevent the heel from slipping. There is also a floating heel-support clip in the heel counter to control over-pronation.
The heel and tongue are padded with dual density foam for a secure and comfortable fit.
The tongue and collar are padded for added comfort and to prevent the heel from slipping. There is also a floating heel-support clip in the heel counter to control over-pronation.
Insole/Midsole Technology
The LG4s have a foam insole that provides lightweight cushioning, but, if you customize your shoes, you can opt for a responsive or cushioned sockliner. The Nike+ Sensor fits underneath the sockliner in the left shoe in all models. The LG4's midsole features the Dynamic Support system, which is made up of Lunarlon and a firmer carrier foam, to provide additional stability, cushioning and comfort during the gait cycle. Lunarlon foam is 30% lighter than traditional Phylon and offers responsive cushioning that exceptionally resilient even after long runs. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the LG4's Lunarlon component is now independent from the firmer carrier foam and much more substantial.
The 890v2s have New Balance's PL-1 Natural Last and a full-length ABZORB® cushioning insert for added comfort. The insert is removable if you want to use custom orthotics or arch support inserts instead. The midsole also features ABZORB® cushioning technology, as well as innovative REVlite technology, which offers exceptional support and responsiveness. In addition to being extremely durable, REVlite is also lightweight and New Balance claims it is 30% lighter than other foams with a comparable performance in underfoot cushioning and stability.
The LG4s have a foam insole that provides lightweight cushioning, but, if you customize your shoes, you can opt for a responsive or cushioned sockliner. The Nike+ Sensor fits underneath the sockliner in the left shoe in all models. The LG4's midsole features the Dynamic Support system, which is made up of Lunarlon and a firmer carrier foam, to provide additional stability, cushioning and comfort during the gait cycle. Lunarlon foam is 30% lighter than traditional Phylon and offers responsive cushioning that exceptionally resilient even after long runs. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the LG4's Lunarlon component is now independent from the firmer carrier foam and much more substantial.
Last
Unknown
PL-1 Natural
Unknown
Outsole Technology
The heel of the LG4's outsole is designed with BRS 1,000 carbon rubber for durability. It also has Nike Natural Motion Engineering flex grooves carved alongside the length of the outsole and across the forefoot. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the flex grooves on the LG4 are deeper, which allow your foot to move naturally and more efficiently.
The 890v2's outsole is designed with Ndurance®, a durable rubber compound, in the heel, and it also has blown rubber around the forefoot that provides additional lightweight comfort and flexibility.
The heel of the LG4's outsole is designed with BRS 1,000 carbon rubber for durability. It also has Nike Natural Motion Engineering flex grooves carved alongside the length of the outsole and across the forefoot. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the flex grooves on the LG4 are deeper, which allow your foot to move naturally and more efficiently.
Style
It is available in 12 different color combinations.
It is available in 7 different color combinations.
It is available in 13 different color combinations.
Sizes
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 5 to 12. All styles are available in a normal width (B), but there are other widths available for customized shoes.
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 7 to 15 and all styles are available in a normal width (D). The black/white and black/cherry tomato styles also come in a 2E and 4E width.
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 6 to 15. It is available in a normal width (D), but there are other widths available for customized shoes.
Runs True to Size?
Yes, Nike says the shoe fits true to size for women's athletic shoes
Yes, New Balance says the shoes run true to size for athletic shoes.
Yes, Nike says the LG4 fits true to size for men's athletic shoes
ProductReportCard Editors' In-Depth Review
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable running shoes with excellent breathability
- Dynamic Support system provides good stability and control for women with over-pronation issues
- LG4 provides good responsive cushioning (one reviewer called it more "springy" than the LG3)
- Fashionable design with lots of cool off-the-shelf styles and ability to customize
- Nike+ ready
Cons
- Dynamic Flywire support may be uncomfortable for some users if the cords are putting too much pressure on top of the foot.
Key Features
Manufacturer's Category
Support (designed more for women with slight to moderate over-pronation issues but also good for neutral runners)
Arch Type
Normal arches (may also work for high/low arch types)
Weight
8.2 ounces (women's size 8)
Height
The heel is 36.5 mm, and the forefoot is 22.9 mm.
Uppers
- A single-layer engineered mesh upper provides improved breathability to keep feet cool and dry.
- For a customized fit and support structure, the LG4 utilizes Flywire saddle technology. Flywire is basically a series of cables between the mesh and inner sleeve that are attached to the midsole and lacing system around the midfoot and arch area. As you lace your shoes, the Flywire will help you achieve a more secure and supportive fit.
- The tongue and collar of the LG4s are padded for added comfort and to prevent the heel from slipping. The heel counter also has a floating heel-support clip to control over-pronation.
- Most uppers have some reflective materials, but, if you want more reflectors for better visibility in low light, you should consider purchasing the Premiums or customizing your shoes.
Insole Technology
- There is a foam insert for lightweight cushioning. If you customize your shoes, you have a choice between two sockliner options. You can pick a responsive sockliner if you want more bounce, or you can choose a cushioned one if you want a cushier ride.
- If you are interested in Nike+, the LG4 has a shoe pocket for the Nike+ Sensor in the left shoe under the sockliner.
Midsole Technology
- The Dynamic Support midsole can stabilize almost any gait pattern and help you achieve a smooth, powerful and efficient stride. The design is lighter and more flexible than traditional medial posts. Basically, a wedge of soft Lunarlon foam controls the lateral side of the midsole, while an opposing wedge of firmer carrier foam underneath dominates on the medial side. The two-part midsole cushions the foot as the heel lands, and, as the foot flexes down, it provides progressively firmer support to prevent the foot from rolling too far inwards.
- Invented by Nike, Lunarlon foam is 30% lighter than traditional Phylon and is also exceptionally responsive cushioning and resilient. Unlike previous models in the series, the LG4's Lunarlon component in the midsole is now independent from the firmer carrier foam and much more substantial.
Outsole Technology
- BRS 1,000 carbon rubber in the heel of the outsole provides exceptional durability
- Nike Natural Motion Engineering flex grooves are carved along the length of the outsole and forefoot/width of midsole. They are deeper than on previous models to let your foot move naturally and more efficiently.
Style
The Women's LunarGlide+4 is available in 12 color combinations or you can customize the style of your running shoes on Nike's website. Either way, Nike offers an impressive number of color options to make your shoes as traditional or flashy as you want.
- 12 available color combinations:
- Summit White mesh with Reflective Silver, Volt and Barley Volt detailing
- Night Blue mesh with Reflective Silver and Purple detailing
- Fireberry (pink) mesh with Reflective Silver and Pearl Pink detailing
- Black mesh with Reflective Silver, Dark Grey and Wolf Grey detailing
- Blue Glow mesh with Reflective Silver detailing
- Light Charcoal mesh with Reflective Silver, Volt and Barley Volt detailing
- Volt (neon yellow) mesh with Reflective Silver and Barley Volt detailing
- Wolf Grey mesh with Reflective Silver and Blue Glow detailing
- Black mesh with Reflective Silver, Fireberry and Pearl Pink detailing
- Pro Platinum mesh with Reflective Silver and Fireberry detailing
- Pro Platinum mesh with Metallic Silver and Total Orange detailing
- Reflective Silver mesh with Bright Crimson detailing
- If you choose to customize, you'll get to pick between a NikeiD-exclusive fade or solid color blocking style for the mesh uppers, between a solid color or a reflective material (metallic silver) for the inner sleeve, and between a variety of solid colors for the Flywire, Swoosh, laces, midsole and outsole. Lastly, you can put the Nike logo or your own iD on the tongue. Delivery takes about 5 weeks.
Sizes
The LG4 fits true to size for women's athletic shoes and comes in half sizes ranging from 5 to 12. It is available in a normal width (B), but it is also available in alternate widths if you customize it. Nike has an online fit guide on their website, but they recommended getting fitted with a Nike professional if possible.
Warranty
If you aren't satisfied with your Nike shoes, you can return them within thirty days for a full refund. For material or manufacturing defects, Nike offers a two-year warranty from the date the product was manufactured.
Reputation
Even though they have only been on the market for a few months, the Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Women's Running Shoe is already earning positive press and great feedback from a few customers online. It received a 4.5/5 on Nike.com (5 reviews), and, as mentioned, it also won "Best Update" in Runner's World (9/12). Runner's World noted that it is exceptionally difficult to craft a shoe that is not only lightweight and flexible, but also that provides excellent cushioning and stability. While the LG4s haven't gotten that many customer reviews yet, the only complaint I really saw was around discomfort on the top of the foot due to the Flywire system. One reviewer was able to unhook the cords from the lacing system, which provided some relief, but you are probably better off just returning the shoes to Nike within the 30-day window if you experience this problem. Despite being marketed as a motion control shoe, the LG4 apparently also works well for neutral runners given the adaptability of the Dynamic Support system. You should try to get fitted by a professional before buying any running shoe, but, if you can't, Nike offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee so you can still try them out. Technical specs aside, I personally love that function doesn't have to trump style and fashion in this running shoe. My Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11s are great shoes, but they are looking pretty boring compared to the LG4s. Overall, the LG4s are amazing, stylish running shoes that are sure to only grow in popularity this year.
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