Saturday, December 21, 2024
Nike Men's LunarGlide+ 4 Review
Best Feature:
Lightweight & flexible with excellent cushioning & stability
Worst Feature:
Some people feel the Flywire support system is uncomfortable
Best Uses:
Support for men with mild/moderate over-pronation
Pricing:
$110 (2-yr warranty & 30-day satisfaction guarantee)
Overview
The Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Men's Running Shoe was introduced in June 2012 as the fourth model in the popular LunarGlide+ series, and, within three months, it had already won its first award - "Best Update" by Runner's World. Contrary to its predecessors that were geared more towards neutral runners, the design of the LunarGlide+ 4, or LG4, falls more within the motion control category and is best for men with normal arches and slight to moderate over-pronation issues. The LG4 design features three major improvements that differentiate it from previous models. First, Nike engineers incorporated "reinvented" Dynamic Flywire technology in the uppers to offer a more customized fit and added support. Secondly, they crafted the midsole with Dynamic Support technology, a cutting-edge responsive cushioning and stabilizing system that showcases Lunarlon foam. Finally, Nike was able to shave almost an ounce off the LG3's weight (LG4 size 10 is now 10 ounces) thanks to the use of lighter upper materials and less rubber in the outsole.
The LG4 still has a single-layer engineered mesh upper for breathability and a padded tongue and collar for additional comfort. For pronation control, the heel counter is specially designed with a floating heel-support clip that is attached to the platform and moves with the foot to help maintain stability. The outsole is built with exceptionally durable rubber and has deep flex grooves carved into it to enhance the shoe's flexibility. The LG4 also has impressive style with a super sleek design that comes in 13 different color combinations. If you want to design your own, you also have the option to customize your shoes using Nike's iD program on their website. Tech-saavy and/or avid runners will appreciate that the LG4 is Nike+ ready. Nike+ makes it easy to monitor, share and compare your running stats on nikeplus.com using a Nike+ SportWatch, Nike+ SportBand, your iPod nano with Nike+ or through the Nike+ smartphone app.
You can purchase Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Men's Running Shoes online for about $110. If you want additional reflectors for more visibility in low light, you should purchase the Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Premium, which retail for $120. If you want to customize your shoes, it will cost around $145.
Product Report Card Grade
We give Nike Men's LunarGlide+ 4 running shoes an A- because they provide great support and cushioning for men with mild to moderate over-pronation issues, but they are still remarkably lightweight and flexible. We also love that they are built to be compatible with Nike+ Sensor technology and that Nike offers the shoes in numerous color/design options or allows you to customize them. While the LunarGlide+ 4s are an excellent running shoe, we had to deduct just a few points because some runners 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)
10 (size 10)
9.2 (size 9)
8.2 (size 8)
Uppers
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.
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.
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 13 different color combinations.
It is available in 7 different color combinations.
It is available in 12 different color combinations.
Sizes
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.
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 5 to 12. All styles are available in a normal width (B), but there are other widths available for customized shoes.
Runs True to Size?
Yes, Nike says the LG4 fits true to size for men's athletic shoes
Yes, New Balance says the shoes run true to size for athletic shoes.
Yes, Nike says the shoe fits true to size for women's athletic shoes
ProductReportCard Editors' In-Depth Review
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Good stability and control for runners with mild to moderate over-pronation
- Lunarlon provides good responsive cushioning (one reviewer thought it was more "springy" than "plush" when compared to the LG3)
- Sleek, stylish design with lots of great color combinations and the ability to customize
- Nike+ ready
- Mesh provides excellent ventilation
Cons
- Some may find the cords in the Flywire support system put too much pressure on the top of the foot and are uncomfortable
Key Features
Manufacturer's Category
Support (primarily for runners with mild to moderate over-pronation, but the LG4 might also work for neutral runners)
Arch Type
Normal arches (Dynamic Support system should also work for high and low arches as well)
Weight
10 ounces (men's size 10)
Height
The heel is 36.5 mm, and the forefoot is 22.9 mm.
Uppers
- The LG4s have a single-layer engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and support.
- The uppers also feature lightweight Flywire technology, which helps to customize the fit of the shoe, add more support and improve the user's overall comfort. Flywire is placed between the mesh upper and the shoe's inner sleeve, and it is essentially a series of cords that embraces the midfoot and arch area. The cords are secured to the platform and are adjustable through the lacing system, so you have ultimate control over how snug you want the fit and how much support you need.
- The tongue and collar of the LG4s are padded for additional comfort.
- The heel counter has a floating heel-support clip to control over-pronation. The clip stretches down under your foot, and, unlike traditional stiff heel counters, it actually moves with you to secure your heel and prevent excessive pronation when your foot hits the ground.
- If you customize your LG4s, you will have the option to add reflective materials to the uppers for increased visibility in low light. In the Premium version, the LG4s come with a "pearlized" midsole and additional reflectors.
Insole Technology
- The LG4s have a foam insole that provides lightweight cushioning under your foot.
- As part of the customization process, you can also choose one of two sockliners: responsive or cushioned. A responsive sockliner will put more of a spring in your step, while a cushioned sockliner will provide added comfort in the transitions.
- There is a shoe pocket in the left shoe under the sockliner that is engineered specifically for a Nike+ Sensor.
Midsole Technology
- The LG4 features a Dynamic Support system in the midsole for added stability, cushioning and comfort throughout the gait cycle regardless of an individual's footstrike pattern. Lighter and more flexible than traditional medial posts, the Dynamic Support system features opposing wedges of foam (Lunarlon and a firmer carrier foam) that provide progressively firmer support as you go from the lateral to medial side of the shoe. The innovation design cushions the foot as the heel lands and then stabilizes it to create a smoother transition as the foot flexes down.
- The softer foam, Lunarlon, was invented by Nike and is 30% lighter than traditional Phylon. It has responsive cushioning that distributes the force of impact throughout your foot and that is exceptionally resilient even after higher mileage runs. Contrary to previous models, the Lunarlon component of LG4's midsole is independent from the firmer carrier foam and is much more substantial.
Outsole Technology
- The outsole is built with BRS 1,000 carbon rubber in the heel for durability
- For improved flexibility, the LG4 has Nike Natural Motion Engineering flex grooves along the length of the outsole and across the forefoot. This helps your foot move naturally and efficiently through each stride.
Style
You can choose from one of Nike's 13 different color combinations for the LG4 or you can customize your running shoes on their website. Either way, there are numerous color options to make your shoes as traditional, flashy or fashion forward as you want.
- 13 different color combinations available on Nike's website:
- Sequoia (black) mesh with Reflective Silver, Electric Green and Liquid Lime detailing
- Black mesh with Reflective Silver, Dark Grey and Wolf Grey detailing
- Wolf Grey mesh with Reflective Silver and Midnight Navy detailing
- Midnight Navy mesh with Reflective Silver and Blue Glow detailing
- Stealth (silver) mesh with Reflective Silver and Electric Green detailing
- Volt (neon yellow) mesh with Reflective Silver and Barley Volt detailing
- Midnight Fog (blackish grey) mesh with Reflective Silver and Total Orange detailing
- Total Orange mesh with Reflective Silver and Barley Volt detailing
- Anthracite mesh with Reflective Silver and Volt detailing
- Granite mesh with Reflective Silver and Team Red detailing
- Pro Platinum mesh with Reflective Silver and Cool Grey detailing
- University Red mesh with Reflective Silver and Gym Red detailing
- Wolf Grey mesh with Reflective Silver and Team Orange detailing
- In the customization process, you choose between a NikeiD-exclusive fade or solid color blocking style for the uppers, between a solid color or 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 and comes in half sizes ranging from 6 to 15. It is available in a normal width (D), but there are other widths available for customized shoes. Nike recommends getting fitted by a Nike professional, but they also offer an online fit guide to help with sizing.
Warranty
Nike offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee with a full refund. For material or manufacturing defects, Nike offers a two-year warranty from the date the product was manufactured.
Reputation
Since the Nike LunarGlide+ 4 Men's Running Shoe was just released a few months ago, there aren't any online retailers that have enough consolidated reviews to get a good feeling for how these shoes are performing versus the LG3. However, it has received a 4.9/5 on Nike.com (19 reviews), and, as mentioned, it also won "Best Update" in Runner's World (9/12). Runner's World was impressed with the LG4's design and performance particularly because of how difficult it is to create a shoe that is lightweight and flexible, yet still provides excellent cushioning and stability. Although its marketed as a motion control shoe, it sounds like the LG4 could also work well for neutral runners given the Dynamic Support system. Before you buy any running shoe, however, it's a good idea to have a professional at a local running specialty store evaluate your feet/gait to make sure you are getting the best shoe for your needs. If you aren't able to get fitted in person, Nike has a great return policy and will refund you in full if you aren't satisfied with the shoes within thirty days. Overall, it sounds like the LG4s are an amazing running shoe and will only continue to grow in popularity as the year goes on.
Reviews
Customer Responses, Reviews, or Complaints
Username: Luvrofjc3
Location: Des Plaines, IL
Age: 45
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Nike is the shoe for me
Review submitted: 2013-08-08
Fitness is very important to me and having the right sneaker is key to a great workout. I have found whether I am doing circuit training with Insanity or running 5 miles Nike sneakers are the best fit for me. I often run outside in the mornings or evenings and they are great on all types of ground. Even when the weather isn't so great I find they also make for a smooth run on our treadmill. They have a variety of styles and versions of a workout sneaker so you can find something for every kind of use. They also have good taste in design and color combinations. Their quality also is worth the amount you pay because they last many miles.
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