So if you saw my earlier post, I gave in.  After 7 years and at least 14-15 pairs of the Brooks Dyad, I bought a pair of Nike Free.  I was skeptical and had heard mixed reviews on them, but wanted to be my own judge.  

They supposedly run small, so I bought a size 8, but ended up exchanging it for a 7.5, so I would say true to size.  When I jogged around the store a few times (yes, I’m that person) they felt different, but it was hard to tell.

So earlier today, I went on my first run with them and I have to say, I do like them.  They are significantly less clunky than the Dyads (I mean let’s be honest, those sorta look like orthopedic sneakers).  The flexibility in the sole made it easier for me to run up those pesky SF hills.  Going downhill was a bit of an awkward feeling since you’re not supposed to run on your heel (neutral step!), but I think I was getting used to it towards the end.  My time was about average (although my running partner made us walk for a bit…so perhaps on track for slightly faster?) 

The final verdict is that I’m pretty happy with my new purchase, although now I’m wondering if alternating two different types of sneakers is bad for you? (I always had at least 2 pairs of the Dyads in rotation at once)