As a fairly experienced runner, my favorite shoes are now “barefoot-style” models like the BIOM A. ECCO offers an interesting new take in this genre. The BIOM A, which weigh 11.9 ounces per foot in my size 12 shoe, are a couple ounces heavier than other similar models I wear.
But with yak leather uppers and a substantial build, the ECCO A will undoubtedly last longer than other barefoot-style shoes. The leather is tough and thin. It breathes adequately and sheds moisture. The shoes’ sole and overall construction is stout, though still flexible and good-fitting on the run.
Are they worth $220? To me, the answer is no. The shoes are nice, to be sure. But despite the special design and the fancy features, the BIOM A shoes run like many others I have worn — many which cost half as much or even less.
Affluent shoe geeks might get a kick out of the BIOM A. If durability is a concern, the yak-leather runners are built to last for hundreds of miles on the road. If you can, try the ECCO shoes on and see for yourself. If nothing else, the white leather shoes with neon-green accents are a fun ride underfoot.
—Stephen Regenold is founder and editor of www.gearjunkie.com.
