When it comes to running shoes, one model does not fit all. This review covers my favorites: the Salomon Techamphibian, a simple shoe with no Space Age shock absorbers or springs.
Living in Florida, where it's summery for most of the year, I need a running shoe that is extremely well ventilated. The best shoe I've ever found is Salomon's line of Techamphibian water shoes. The shoes are meant for use in marine environments, but they perform great on the road.
The latest incarnation, the Salomon Techamphibian 2, sports a mesh upper that vents heat and humidity away from my feet, keeping them from becoming steaming hot potatoes when I'm running. They also have narrow bands of synthetic material and rugged plastic laces, that tighten with the tug of a plastic mechanism, to hold my feet firmly in place. There's a quick release button on the mechanism that allows me to kick them off fast if I want to take a swim after my run. Another appreciated innovation is a strap by the Achilles tendon that can be adjusted to keep my heel in the shoe.
The Techamphibian's interior pad and soles provide plenty of shock absorption. I did, however, have to buy arch inserts. I have very high arches and have had to install inserts in most of the running shoes I've ever owned. (Footsmart Arch Inserts work great for me.)
Salomon says Techamphibian Water Shoes are made to be soaked and that they dry quickly. Truth be told, mine have taken at least a day to dry after a rainy run. If they get salt water or dirty water on them, you absolutely have to rinse them in fresh water or they'll smell like a wet dog by the next day. Also, because the shoes have mesh uppers, they're prone to fill with sand, dirt and mud when running on beaches, dusty trails or creek beds. That's why I would only use them to run on a solid road surface or to putter around a boat in a clean marine environment.
I consider running shoes a very personal decision. Make sure you pick a model that meets the unique demands of your environment. If you live in an area that gets plenty of heat and humidity, you should give Salomon Techamphibians a try.
My Salomon Techamphibian 2 Water Shoes are perfect running shoes for warm to hot conditions. The mesh uppers vent heat and humidity, keeping my feet cool and comfortable.
With all that mesh, you'd think your feet would shift around too much. But Salomon designed the Techamphibian with strips of reinforcing synthetic material, tight plastic shoe laces, and an adjustable strap on back to keep feet firmly in place.
The Techamphibian rubber soles grip the road and provide plenty of cushioning.
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