Gear Review -- Brooks T5 Racer :: July 12, 2007

I run most nights of the week, from three to seven miles, my 90-pound Weimaraner tethered to my waist, always pushing me to sprint faster and further. Indeed, he’s sort of the ultimate training partner, silent, swift and tireless, only occasionally giving a sharp tug when a bunny or squirrel darts across the trail ahead.

In an attempt to run as unencumbered as possible, and to keep up with my dog’s pace, I’ve been testing a pair of Brooks’ T5 Racers as of late.

These flyweight road runners are nearly unnoticeable on the foot, essentially a soft shell with an EVA midsole, though very little support.

They tip the scale at a matter-defying 5.9 ounces per shoe, making them literally half the weight of what some of my other running shoes go at.

You feel faster on your feet in the T5s, and over some distance, you are faster: The ounce savings is noticeable after even 15 or 20 minutes of constant pavement pounding.

All that said, these are not shoes to train in for the average runner. They lack the support for day-after-day use. As the name implies, these shoes are made for competition, from 5Ks on up.

Brooks recommends the T5s for distances of up to a half marathon.

These unisex shoes are available in men’s sizes only, starting at size 5.

Price: $80.00

www.brooksrunning.com