Immediately after crossing the start gate in a distance race is a bad time to realize you need to invest in new running shoes. Unfortunately, I came to this realization while running in the Red Bull Wings For Life World Race in Denver, Colorado earlier this year. I’m very happy to say that I accomplished my goal for the race, but my body paid the price.

A few weeks later, with the blisters on my feet still healing, I was given the opportunity to review some of the new men’s running shoes and apparel from Pearl Izumi. Needless to say, I could not wait for the opportunity to try some new gear. Some weeks later, I received the Men’s EM Road M2 running shoes, a Flash SS shirt, and the Fly Long Shorts.

I tested each of the items a few times a week for about six weeks and put more than 50 miles worth of effort into this review.

Men’s EM Road M2

My normal running route takes me past a football stadium with a surrounding track. This gives me a good excuse to run some stairs and do some cross-training exercises. The M2 running shoe is nimble enough for tempo workouts and well cushioned for long training runs. They deliver a smooth, race-ready running experience. They are designed for the mid-foot, over-pronator like myself. The shoes performed great fresh out of the box. My only issue through the break-in process was some friction around my ankles, which subsided after daily wear.

The Road M2 shoes feature a seamless upper with a lightweight TPU film and bonded synthetic, which cradles the mid-foot while allowing the forefoot to splay. The Transfer Dry spacer mesh keeps feet cool, comfortable, and is moderately water resistant. They also have a high-density post at medial mid-foot that is engineered for pronation control. The blown rubber in the forefoot and carbon rubber in the crash pad combine for great cushioning and abrasion resistance.

Coming from a flatter, free-form shoe, the M2 was a relief for performance and stability for me. With a dynamic offset of 4 mm at initial contact to 7.5 mm at mid-stance, the shock absorption made a noticeable difference in how I felt after a long run. However, if you prefer a flatter shoe, Pearl Izumi also offers the Road N0, which has a 1mm at initial contact to a 4.5 mm at mid-stance.

Both the M2 and the N0 are available in sizes seven through 13 and half sizes as well. A size 14 is also available. The Road M2 retails for $110, while the N0 will run you $100.

Flash SS

I was intrigued by the opportunity to test out the Flash SS running shirt because I would say I do not own a “training shirt” specifically designed for running. Typically, I do wear a “dry-fit” top, which at least gave me something to compare the user experience to.

The Flash SS, which retails for $40, features mesh panels and a moisture-wicking fabric with an asymmetrical, lined design made out of 100 percent polyester. My initial reaction was that the shirt felt a little tight across my chest, but I found it fit well and the fabric makes for a very lightweight feel.

These asymmetrical lines are undoubtedly noticeable, but undeniably effective. Having experienced training sessions that turn my “dry-fit” shirt into a wet rag, I can confidently say these lines up the cool factor. This combined with the lightweight, Transfer Dry fabric creates extreme breathability during a run.

There are four other new shirts in this line, including a long-sleeved version of the Flash with the same asymmetrical line design that goes for $45. The Fly singlet sells for $30 retail and for the cooler days or mornings, they have a Fly long-sleeve with a center front zipper for venting available for $45.

While the Flash tops are only available in White and Mykonos Blue, the Fly tops have four different color schemes, including Jelly Bean, which any Oregon Duck fan would approve of.

Fly Long Short

The Fly Long Short is one of seven new shorts and ¾ pants available in the Pearl Izumi running collection. My immediate thought was that even the long version, with a seven-inch inseam (size medium), would be too short for my liking. But, this thought quickly went away after trying them on.

The main body of the shorts is 100 percent polyester. The Transfer Dry liner is 88 percent polyester and 12 percent elastane, which made for a comfortable fit. At no point did I feel like the shorts were bunching up or sagging.

My favorite feature is the large zippered back pocket on these shorts. I could easily fit my cell phone, driver’s license, and keys in here with room to spare if needed. I really liked the screaming yellow trim on the shorts as well, which they also have available in Mykonos Blue or Black.

These shorts sell for $40 with the shorter five-inch inseam version selling for $38. The Flash ¾ tights are the priciest item of the new collection, available for $60. But, I think would be a great buy for the cooler months of the year. They also have a two-in-one short with built-in boxer briefs ($55), a Flash short (self proclaimed as “the most comfortable shorts in the world” for $50), short tights ($45), and a split short with a featherweight fabric for maximum mobility ($38).

Conclusion

Coming from a brand that I have primarily known as being part of the cycling industry, I think Pearl Izumi has definitely opened my eyes as a great option for training and my next road race. My feet and knees would have to agree. I received several comments from friends and colleagues just based on the style and I hope this piece is able to speak to the comfort. Check out the Pearl Izumi website for more information.

Images by Matt Korovesis