The following review was written by Anita Ortiz and features the KURU Atom 2 athletic sneaker. Anita has been running on trails for over 40 years and her race resume spans from 5k trails to 100 mile ultras and includes numerous USATF championship titles and team USA medals.
I’ve been wearing the KURU Atom 2 athletic sneaker for about two months. This second iteration of the KURU Atom has been a real treat for the feet. I’m a 70-90 mile a week trail runner who has seriously bad feet. My feet have gone through years of running abuse. In addition to some structural issues that I’m stuck with, there are always bouts of plantar fasciitis, sore achilles, and just plain aches and pains. Yet, the KURU Atom 2, gave me a smile the moment I put them on.
This shoe is now my ‘go to’ shoe whenever I have any foot ache or pain. It seemingly erases all soreness like magic. Now, of course, shoes are not magic. But there are some very specific things KURU did to the Atom 2, which give it a splendid ride.
KURU – Let’s work from the ground up:
The KURUCLOUD+ shock-absorbing cushion has been upgraded from the previous Atom shoe. This crazy comfy sole has a heel cushion height of 28mm while the toe height is 18mm. Thus, the heel drop is 10mm. For individuals with sore heels, plantar fasciitis, or achy achilles, this offset can greatly reduce foot pain. In addition, with 10mm underfoot, at the minimum, you never feel pokes or jabs from rocks on the trail.
The next comfort technology KURU has included is the KURUSOLE, which is designed to hug and protect your heel. The curved heel design literally wraps your heel in support. It resembles a custom fit heel insert with the added ability to flex as your feet move across the terrain. The heel cup reduces plantar strain, thanks to the snug yet flexible wrap up around the heel.
Finally, in immediate contact with your foot, is KURU’s arch-supporting ULTIMATE INSOLE. This insole provides just the right amount of support without the arch feeling pumped up or stiff. The Atom 2 insole is supportive without losing the cushion KURU successfully achieves. Further, after 8 weeks of wear, the arch does not seem to be breaking down. They feel the same as they did the first day out of the box.
I also greatly appreciate the wider toe box allowing my toes to spread. This seems to prevent blisters and reduce my toe pain. In addition the tongue is not attached to the shoe up along the eyelets. I know that a gusseted tongue is loved by some. I however appreciate that I can adjust mine for comfort and to reduce pressure points.
Overall, I have to say that if you have feet that snarl at you, or if you are on your feet all day, consider a pair of the KURU Atom 2. Happy feet can make the day better!
KURU Atom 2 MSRP: $175
