Somnio Pacemaker Running Shoes Review

As I trained for the Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay this Spring, I ventured onto the road much more than in any time in recent memory. In fact, I hadn’t run this much on the road since High School — preferring instead the solitude and challenge that the many nearby singletrack trails provide. To get me back on the road took a near act of God and a little help from the Somnio Pacemaker shoes.

Somnio Pacemaker Features:

• Lightweight, neutral platform
• Custom fit options with three different footbeds, varus wedges and cushioning inserts (F.E.A.T.System)
• 2-step dual-density midsole for pronation control
• ACT midfoot bridge for support and gait alignment
• Stretch mesh forefoot for extra room and breathability
• Lace keeper system to keep the laces tied and out of the way
• Slightly curved last for mid to high arches (worked great for my flat feet though)
• MSRP: $135

Somnio Pacemaker Running Shoes Review

I totally dig these shoes and feel they are absolutely worth every penny. Succinct and to the point… if you read nothing more, that should be well enough to get you to give these shoes a shot. If you want more details, read on.

Somnio’s philosophy is to build shoes that are adaptable enough to provide a near-custom fit for every runner. In conjunction with the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine and the renowned Dr Andy Pruitt (the mind behind Specialized’s Body Geometry products), Somnio’s shoes feature custom inserts to correct common problems and help runners of all types feel more comfortable and achieve higher performance.

My local running store, Runner’s Corner of Orem, Utah dialed me in with just the right combination of varus wedges and footbeds to correct my biomechanics (particularly my left foot). My right knee has been reconstructed (torn ACL in 1996) and appears to track better than my left. So, I ended up with the 3+ insoles for my flat arches and the largest varus wedge in my left shoe and no wedge in my right — everything aligned perfectly. In about 45 minutes I was properly fit and ready to hit the road.

The comfort provided by the Pacemaker’s is truly superb. My feet were cradled in 360-degree comfort at various paces and distances. I feel like my stride is smoother and my pace is quickened due to the biomechanic improvements provided by these shoes.

Looking at the Pacemaker’s, they are arguably the best looking of the entire Somnio shoe line, but are still lacking in style, in my opinion. Luckily, function always wins out over form in my book, so the lackluster styling is quickly forgotten once you are miles into a run.

As I mentioned, these were used as my training shoes and race-day shoes for the Wasatch Back Relay. I will go so far as to say that these shoes were one of the most critical factors in the race. I truly depended on these shoes and they never let me down — even after 18+ miles on the pavement. I can run longer distances than ever before yet never once have I experienced the typical ankle, knee and hip pain as I have with other shoes. After experiencing the Somnio difference, I’m not sure I can ever go back to a traditional shoe.

Good Pacemaker

• The first running shoes I’ve been able to wear without aftermarket insoles
• Adjustable fit dials these shoes in for your foot type and stride
• Comfortable for long miles
• Breathable
• Feels very light weight
• Custom wedges, supports, etc. don’t feel bulky or awkward

Bad Pacemaker

• Styling leaves something to be desired
• Forefoot rubber seems to be wearing quickly

The Bottom Line: Somnio Pacemaker Running Shoes

With the Somnio Pacemaker running shoes, I have logged more pain-free road miles than ever before. While I typically loathe running on the road, the Pacemaker’s have re-opened my eyes to the miles of asphalt just outside my door. This Spring, I’ve now logged the most road miles ever and I owe much of it to these shoes.

Buy Now: Visit SomnioRunning.com