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Brooks Ravenna 2

*Est. $100

Reviewed

July 2011

by ConsumerSearch

Pros

Fantastic fit
Fast feel
Scaled flexibility according to gender and size
Low profile

Cons

Exposed torsion bar
Poor ride with forefoot strike
Less stability than comparable models

Where to Buy

for $99.95

Our Analysis
Specs
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18 Amazon Reviews

Mild overpronators who are looking for a lightweight shoe with plenty of cushioning and support should consider the Brooks Ravenna 2. Released in February 2011 and slated to be replaced by the Brooks Ravenna 3 in February 2012, the Ravenna 2 earned the highest honor of Editor's Choice in the Runner's World Summer Shoe Guide published in June 2011. Experts say an incredible fit sets the Ravenna 2 apart from other running shoes. The 3D adjustable arch saddle that allows the shoe to hug the foot is a particularly loved feature. This could be because the shoe's flexibility is scaled to the gender and size of the wearer, which helps the shoe fit perfectly. A low-to-the-ground profile and light 10.8-ounce weight give the shoe a fast feel that's appreciated by serious runners. Despite the accolades, some reviewers don't like the exposed torsion bar, saying it makes the shoe ride poorly for those who run with forefoot strike. In addition, the stability features on this shoe aren't as great as those offered in other Brooks models.

The Brooks Ravenna 2 has also earned praise from the U.K.-based Runner's World, Women's Running Magazine and Outside magazine. While these publications often supply only limited information, blogs such as ActiveGearReview.com provide more reviews.

Our Sources

1. Runner's World

In the June 2011 issue of Runner's World, editors review 20 new running shoes and single out three as top performers. The Brooks Ravenna 2 earns the Editor's Choice award for its fantastic fit. A lower profile and minimal design give the shoe a fast, racing feel, and it provides good support and stability. Runner's World's quarterly running-shoe guides are the industry standard. Shoes are wear-tested by several runners, and editors Warren Greene and Martyn Shorten are widely considered to be some of the most knowledgeable experts on running shoes.

Review: Shoe Lab, Editors of Runner's World, June 2011

2. Runner's World U.K.

The U.K. edition of Runner's World features an online guide to 32 of the newest running shoes. For each, editors provide a detailed review and technical information. Shoes are tested by real-world runners and two running teams. The Brooks Ravenna 2 receives high praise from editors who say the update from the previous model is so improved that it's nearly a new shoe. While the review is detailed and helpful, it's only available online to subscribers.

Review: Spring/Summer Shoe Guide 2011, Kerry McCarthy, Andy Dixon, Ruth Emmett, Feb. 24, 2011

3. Women's Running Magazine

Sixteen wear-tested winners are picked in this Spring 2011 shoe review from Women's Running Magazine. Each model was tested by several runners, and the Brooks Ravenna 2 is selected as an Editor's Choice. Sebor says the shoe delivers "mild stability in a racing-weight package," and praises it for the blend of speed and support.

Review: Spring 2011 Shoe Review, Jessica Sebor, Spring 2011

4. ActiveGearReview.com

ActiveGearReview.com provides more than 100 wear-tested reviews of popular road-running shoes. Even though the comments are relatively brief, the site does provide valuable information on some of the newer, top-rated styles. The Brooks Ravenna 2 receives 4 out of 5 stars, and ZRod finds the shoe both comfortable and durable. He says, however, that the Ravenna 2 is better suited for those with heel strike and doesn't ride well for those with a forefoot strike due to the exposed torsion bar. Still, for those with mild overpronation, this is a good pick.

Review: Brooks Ravenna 2 Review, Zach Rod aka ZRod, March 13, 2011

5. Outside

In Outside magazine's 2011 Summer Buyer's Guide, editors select eight shoes as top picks for road-running shoes. The Brooks Ravenna 2 is one of the models chosen. Unfortunately, the site gives no details as to why these shoes are awarded such high marks or how each shoe is tested.

Review: Summer Buyer's Guide, Editors of Outside, May 2011

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