For FW24, 361° launched a number of new running footwear models, spanning road and trail. As the years have progressed, 361°’s product range has gone from strength to strength, ushering in a new era of design identity for the brand. With the introduction of new foaming technology, plus a primary focus on serving independent running specialists first and foremost, 361° stands to make big gains in the UK going forward.
The two key standouts, Meraki 6 and Phoenix, are proving to be great additions to the run-specialty scene for this season.
The journey of how both of these models began starts separately. Meraki has long been one of 361°’s best-selling neutral options. However, with how rapidly the industry has progressed over the last number of years, Meraki felt like a shoe needing a large-scale update, whilst retaining the core ideas that made Meraki a winner.
Since its inception, Meraki has been a responsive neutral daily trainer option featuring a two-piece platform design. With any update to the line, it felt important to continue this story, but whilst also satisfying the newer demands of consumers of softer, more cushioned running experiences, plus bring other aspects, such as the geometry and last shape in line with other key shoes in the 361° range.
Using these learnings, a brief of adding softness and comfort with a faster feel underfoot was produced.
KEY INGREDIENTS – MERAKI 6
Midsole:
- As seen in other models such as Centauri and Futura, the introduction of supercritical foaming can transform the liveliness of a running shoe. Whereas in the past, traditional EVA is combined with a chemical foaming agent to “blow” the midsole foam to the correct shape, supercritical foams (SCF) are “blown” by an inert gas (CO2 in the case of 361° shoes) being injected directly into the melted polymer. This gives SCFs a light, airy feel, whilst also eliminating harmful chemical used in the traditional midsole production process.
- For Meraki 6, two midsole elements are utilsed; Primo, a PEBA/EVA blend supercritical foam, provides the chassis element of the midsole. Primo is an ultra-soft, premium-feeling foam with class-leading rebound for a daily-trainer compound. Sitting on top of the Primo chassis is a thin layer of ENGAGE foam, a beaded eTPE foam. Used here as a slightly firmer, full-length layer, ENGAGE helps to provide stability and excellent bounce back.
Geometry
- For Meraki 6, the geometry setup massively contributes to the smooth feel. Rockered from heel to toe, plus set up with a wider and straighter last than previous generations, Meraki 6 is ideal for neutral runners looking for a smooth, soft and stable ride.
Outsole
- Meraki 6 also introduces GEKKO Grip in the forefoot, providing excellent traction, assisting the foot to grip the ground and propel forward on toe-off.
Upper
- A soft, airy engineered mesh featuring 50% recycled materials provides premium comfort and breathability, whilst retaining great structure and support which fans of the Meraki line have come to expect.
Overall, Meraki 6 is designed to allow its users to switch off and enjoy the ride!
361° PHOENIX: STABILITY REBORN
Alongside the development of the updated Meraki, also came the idea of a sister shoe, using the same midsole elements in combination to instead provide a stable, but still cushioned platform. With 361° Kairos 2, the brand already has a great contender for a stability model. With this in mind, Phoenix, 361°’s latest stability offering, was designed to sit as a more premium stability shoe.
Rising from the ashes of previous stability models, Phoenix promises to deliver softness and rebound whilst providing guidance for runners who need it.
Midsole and Geometry
- Engage° is housed within a full-length layer of PRIMO foam technology, a lighter and plush max-cushioning foam, which provides the perfect combination of max-comfort, excellent support and protection.
- Engage° foam in the heel geometry, has a specific and firmer density extended forward to the mid foot, to assist and guide specific gaits.
- These two foams, when combined, give the feeling of a well-balanced, protective and supportive cushioned platform. With its non-traditional setup the 361° Phoenix is designed to serve those runners seeking a smooth, balanced and stable running experience.
To find out more about either model, check out 361° here.
