361 Flame Carbon Plate Running Shoe Review

Overview

• Reviewers: Tom and Nick from The Run Testers
• Price: £150 in the UK / $160 in the US
• Weight: 233g (8.2oz) for men's size 8
• Drop: 8mm
• Design: Lightweight carbon plate race shoe

Key Features

• Transition: Fast heel to toe transition
• Energy Return: High energy return for efficient running at speed
• Upper Material: Lightweight mono mesh with reinforced sections
  • Modest padding around ankle collar for comfort
  • Lean tongue design
  • Healthy outsole rubber for midsole foam protection

Fit and Comfort

• Fit: True to size, but narrow
  • Suggestion: Wear thicker socks to protect against upper fabric rubbing
• Ankle Collar: Modest padding for comfort
• Toe Box: Slightly longer with enough room for comfort during long runs
• Lacing: Requires adjustment for a good midfoot fit

Performance

• First Run: Tested at the Lisbon Half Marathon

  • Time: 1:45 (personal best is 1:27)
  • Good performance even when pacing conservatively due to recent injury

• Running Experience:

  • Liked the lightweight feel and energy return
  • Not as bouncy as some competitors (e.g., Vaporfly) but still enjoyable
  • Emphasis on a firm ride, similar to the Sockany Endorphin Pro 2 and Nike Zoomfly

Comparisons with Other Shoes

• Notable Comparisons:
  • Feels more like a Nike Zoomfly than a Vaporfly
  • Better than Hoka Carbon X2/X3 and Hoka Rocket X
• Current Market Position:
  • Solid option for those looking for a carbon plate shoe under £220
  • Suggested price: £140 would be better

Additional Observations

• Workout Test:

  • Completed a tough workout of 2 sets of 3K in 10 minutes + 5 hill reps
  • Impressive transition and lightweight feel
  • Not overly aggressive; comfortable over longer distances

• Sound:

  • Noted that the shoe is loud when running
  • Perceived as an advantage on suburban streets for visibility

Final Verdict

• Overall Impression:
  • Very good first impression, promising for future tests
  • Comfortable enough for 5K to marathon distances
  • Looking forward to further tests and potential races
• Recommendation:
  • A solid choice for carbon plate racing and speed work

Closing

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