A Sneak Peek At 2012 Running Footwear, Part II

The Kinvara's lightweight, flexible midsole provides an incredible amount of protection between your foot and the road. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Here's an early look at the Kinvara 3, slated to hit stores in 2012. It comes in a minimal package (under 8 oz, 4mm heel-toe drop) that offers maximum comfort and protection. Photo: Mario Fraioli

The TT has a low-profile midsole that features a good amount of protection in the midsole while still maintaining a fast, responsive ride. Photo: Mario Fraioli

The Ultra TT 5.0 is a triathlon-specific race shoe that weighs in under 9.0 oz and features a speed-lacing system for fast transitions. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Prominent lugs on the outsole of the Vertical K provide stability and grip on icy, muddy or snowy terrain. Photo: Mario Fraioli

The Vertical K is a lightweight trail shoe with a one-piece upper that wraps the foot nicely. It's flexible enough to run fast but protective enough to handle even the trickiest terrain. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Got lugs? The C-Lite does, and enough to ensure that you stay on two feet over the wettest and wildest terrain. Photo: Mario Fraioli

A stalwart in the La Sportiva line, the snug fitting C-Lite 2.0 is built to go up and down. It's one-piece upper is lightweight and provides a feeling of stability across the top of the foot. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Featuring Newton's trademark lugs in the forefoot of the shoe, the Gravity promotes a forefoot strike and fast transition. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Lightweight and featuring a low, 3mm drop from heel to toe, the Gravity is an everyday trainer with a breathable, flexible upper. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Five forefoot lugs encourage an efficient mid to forefoot landing. Photo: Mario Fraioli

A color update to the lightweight racing flat that launched in 2011, the MV2 weighs in at under 6 ounces, has zero drop from heel to toe, and is all about speed. A great option for efficient runners competing at distances ranging from 5K to 1/2 marathon. Photo: Mario Fraioli

A completely flat Vibram outsole allows the foot to move naturally while offering protection from road hazards. Photo: Mario Fraioli

A new addition to Merrell's barefoot lineup in 2012, the no-drop Road Glove is made for road runners who want to run as naturally and unimpeded as possible over asphalt. It features a sockless liner, breathable upper and wide toe box. Photo: Mario Fraioli

Minimalist road runners rejoice: no drop from heel to tow, Vibram outsole and a wide platform. Photo: Mario Fraioli

The ladies' version of the Road Glove, the Dash Glove is made for a woman's foot. It features the same breathable upper and generous toe box which allows the foot to move without restriction. Photo: Mario Fraioli