The shoes are constructed with Nike’s Flywire technology, which the company says helps create more support without the bulk. The shoe is an Air Max 360 shoe, which means that the air pockets go completely around the shoe. The sole also is not flat like most shoes. Instead, it features strategically-placed lugs and a Waffle outsole that Nike says allows for optimal traction, durability and cushioning.

“We often say at Nike, the consumer decides,” said Nike spokesman Derek Kent. “The consumer response to the Nike Air Max 2009+ has been phenomenal.”

For my entire life, I’ve run in Saucony shoes and never even considered Nikes. After three test runs in the Air Max 2009, I came away with the thought that I've never been in shoes that made it so easy for me to hit the pavement. I’d definitely think about switching. And that’s a good sign for the Swoosh