HOW FAST?! LI-NING FEIDIAN CHALLENGER 6 FIRST RUN REVIEW

Summary

The video reviews the Leaning Challenger 6, providing first impressions after testing it during a 10xK workout. The reviewer compares it to the Challenger 5, noting that the new version feels firmer, smoother, and more stable, with a less lively, snappy feel. While the Challenger 5 is great for faster workouts, the Challenger 6 is positioned as a more steady option for longer runs and tempo efforts. Technical details include a dual-density midsole, a carbon plate, and improved rubber coverage for better durability. Overall, the Challenger 6 impresses with its comfort, fit, and performance, especially for longer intervals.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Leaning Challenger 6 is an upgrade from the Challenger 5, focusing on a smoother and more stable ride.
• 😀 The reviewer ran a 10 x 1K workout in the Challenger 6 and achieved faster-than-expected paces, showing strong performance.
• 😀 The shoe is slightly heavier than the previous version, weighing 271 g (9.6 oz), with minimal impact on performance.
• 😀 The upper features a lightweight, breathable fiber material with added overlays for heel structure and a slightly wider fit.
• 😀 The midsole uses a dual-density setup: Super Boom for lightness and bounce, Boom Tech for stability, plus a full-length carbon plate.
• 😀 The Challenger 6 provides a smoother transition and firmer ride compared to the snappier, lively Challenger 5.
• 😀 It is better suited for longer intervals, tempo runs, and half-marathon efforts, while the previous model excels at shorter, faster intervals.
• 😀 Outsole has full rubber coverage for durability and grip, with cutouts that can trap small debris like pine cones.
• 😀 The shoe fits true to size and offers excellent lockdown and overall comfort, making it accessible to more runners due to added width.
• 😀 The reviewer emphasizes the independent nature of the review, noting Leaning had no control over content or opinions.
• 😀 Future content is planned, including detailed comparisons with the Challenger 5 and additional long-term testing updates.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the review?

The main focus of the review is the transition from the Leaning Challenger 5 to the Challenger 6, with a focus on performance, design changes, comfort, and fit after the initial test run.

How did the reviewer test the Leaning Challenger 6?

The reviewer tested the Leaning Challenger 6 by using it in a 10 x 1K interval session as part of their marathon training, pushing the shoe to handle speed work right from the start.

What improvements were noted in the Challenger 6 compared to the Challenger 5?

The Challenger 6 is firmer, more stable, and offers a smoother but less snappy transition compared to the Challenger 5. It’s also designed for more stability and durability, particularly for longer runs and tempo workouts.

Did the reviewer experience any discomfort while using the Challenger 6?

No, the reviewer noted that the Challenger 6 was comfortable throughout the run, with no discomfort from the shoe, even after completing a half marathon distance.

What does the reviewer say about the fit and sizing of the shoe?

The reviewer found the fit of the Challenger 6 to be perfect, as they went true to size (EU 49, UK 13) just like with other Leaning shoes. The shoe provided a good lock-down, and the upper was described as lightweight and breathable.

What changes were made to the shoe's design and materials?

The Challenger 6 has a wider base for added stability, a slightly firmer midsole, and a dual-density setup with Super Boom midsole and Boom Tech for stabilization. The upper is lightweight and breathable with more overlays for structure, and the tongue is gusseted for a secure fit.

How did the reviewer find the shoe's performance during the workout?

The reviewer was pleasantly surprised by the shoe's performance, managing to hit some of their fastest paces during the workout, even exceeding their expectations with consistent times around the low 320s per km, finishing at a 317 pace.

What did the reviewer mean by the Challenger 6 feeling like a 'buttery smooth' ride?

The reviewer described the Challenger 6 as offering a smoother, more controlled ride compared to the Challenger 5. This smoothness was attributed to the firmer transition and added stability, which provided a comfortable and steady run, especially for longer efforts.

What are the differences between the Challenger 5 and the Challenger 6 in terms of their intended use?

The Challenger 5 is more suited for faster, snappier runs and speed work, while the Challenger 6 is aimed more at longer, steady tempo runs and half-marathon efforts, offering better stability and smoothness.

What did the reviewer say about the durability of the Challenger 6's outsole?

The reviewer noted that the full coverage of the GCU lock rubber outsole provides great durability and grip. They were impressed by the coverage in Chinese shoes and felt confident in the durability of the Challenger 6's outsole for long-term use.