Basic Parameters:
• Weight (size 42 2/3): 271 g
• Drop: 8.5 mm
• Type: Training/racing
Upper and Comfort
At first glance, the Boston 11 stands out from its predecessor with a thinner but stiffer upper. On hot days, breathability is definitely better, but on colder mornings, your feet quickly lose warmth. Additionally, the tongue tends to fold and press down on the toes, which required my own modification to run without pain. The redesigned heel counter is stiffer and features an extra layer of material, the purpose of which is unclear to me. What’s more, the heel counter caused significant rubbing around my Achilles area, which greatly reduced running comfort.
Cushioning and Responsiveness
In terms of cushioning and responsiveness, the Boston 11 does not disappoint—the sole still provides good support and bounce, although the overall feel is even stiffer than the Boston 10. The shoe needs some breaking in—only after several dozen kilometers does it become more flexible. It performs well on faster workouts, but the comfort for daily use is lower than its predecessor.
Grip and Durability
The Continental rubber outsole provides very good grip on different surfaces. Unfortunately, the durability of the upper is noticeably lower than in the Boston 10—tears appeared even with normal use.
Summary
The Boston 11 features a thinner, more breathable, but stiffer and less durable upper. It works well in warm weather, but comfort and durability are lower than before. The problematic tongue also negatively affects the overall user experience. Still, it remains a dynamic shoe for fast running.
Final Ratings:
• Comfort: 3/10
• Cushioning: 6/10
• Responsiveness: 8/10
• Grip: 9/10
• Durability: 6/10
Want to know my thoughts on other models?
Check out the section called Running Shoe Reviews, where I regularly publish detailed evaluations of running shoes.
