At the end of 2019, R2 released the latest R2 Infinite Integrated Flyknit Professional Running Shoes, which feature a minimalist design paired with extreme professional performance, aiming to provide runners with an experience that breaks free from constraints and challenges limits. I have previously worn two models from the R2 series, namely the R2 Cloud Run and the R2 Equator. This time, I am excited to introduce the new R2 Infinite, making it the third model I've tried. As far as I know, the first running shoe R2 launched in the market was the R2 Pressure-Sensitive Smart Running Shoes, so R2 has released a total of four running shoes to date.

The brand R2 is still relatively unknown, with not many people aware of it, so let me introduce it briefly. R2 is an emerging running gear brand and a pioneer in pressure-sensitive smart running shoes. The core team members have over twenty years of experience serving frontline sports brands and are also avid runners. They are dedicated to developing and applying emerging technologies, meticulously designing and manufacturing performance running gear, and enhancing runners' performance, allowing every runner who desires to surpass themselves to experience unprecedented running joy.

The packaging of the R2 Infinite running shoes this time does not use the traditional outer box but adopts a drawer-style combination paper box, making it very convenient to open and take out the shoes.

The center of the box features the brand's English logo in silver hot stamping.

The side of the packaging box is labeled with the brand tag and detailed product information.

Opening the shoe box, you can see that the shoes are entirely black, from the upper to the midsole to the outsole, giving a low-key feel and showcasing the integrated nature of the 'one-piece knit running shoes.'

The upper uses a one-piece flyknit mesh, which fits the foot without any extra uncomfortable areas. The R2 Infinite flyknit upper is softer and more elastic. The breathable mesh area at the toe allows sweat and moisture inside the shoe to be expelled in time, keeping the feet dry while running.

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The toe part extends from the big toe area, providing collision protection for runners. Most running shoes nowadays use this design. The main function of the collision toe is also to support the shaping of the upper, working together with the internal patch at the shoe tip to ensure the upper is firm and does not press on the toes.

The shape of the Infinite's last makes it look slimmer than previous models, with more streamlined lines, especially at the toe. Unlike the slightly clumsy R2 Cloud Run and R2 Equator, the R2 Infinite has a noticeable foot-shaping effect when worn, making it look clean and neat.

Since it features an elastic sock-like design at the shoe opening, the tongue and opening are seamlessly connected. The flat lace system allows the laces to fit well on the upper without appearing abrupt.

The sock-like tongue is a very popular design in current running shoes, loved by runners for its practicality, comfort, and aesthetics. Many brands, such as Nike, Bmai, Li-Ning, and Codoon, use this design. It has two main benefits: first, you can put on and take off the shoes without untying the laces, allowing for a 'slip-on' experience; second, it comfortably wraps around the foot, preventing discomfort from frequent tongue movement during exercise.

The R2 Infinite's heel also uses a comfortable one-piece knit design, but the heel is thicker than the forefoot. This boat-shaped rolling geometric structure with different thicknesses at the heel and forefoot provides forward rolling propulsion for runners. The heel is tightly wrapped, with a significant anti-slip effect. The heel has an internal layer of three-dimensional foam, making it more stable and ensuring the heel is securely wrapped and stable during running.

The R2 Infinite has the Infinite logo and English text printed on the heel pull tab, both using 3M reflective material. The brand thoughtfully considers night runners, adding reflective material to enhance safety during night runs.

The craftsmanship inside the running shoes is also very meticulous, with tight stitching throughout.

The insoles of the shoes are made of Ortholite, which performs well in breathability, sweat resistance, odor resistance, and cushioning. This is why many running shoe brands choose this insole.

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The midsole of the R2 Infinite running shoes still uses R2's independently developed OUNDFOAM core technology, which is the soul of R2. Compared to traditional EVA, it offers stronger cushioning and lighter weight. The thick yet lightweight midsole provides long-lasting cushioning performance while reducing the shoe's weight. Previously, R2 running shoes were often perceived as 'platform shoes.'

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The outsole of the shoes still uses the familiar full-length EVA outsole, with added wear-resistant and anti-slip patches at the forefoot and heel, providing better anti-slip and wear-resistant performance during exercise, ensuring runner safety and extending the shoe's lifespan. Since the bottom of the R2 Infinite is entirely black, it's hard to see the specific distribution of the wear-resistant rubber. Fortunately, as a fan of R2 running shoes, I compared it with the R2 Cloud Run and R2 Equator, and the outsole structure and pattern are identical.

The R2 Infinite running shoes weigh only 228 grams for a single shoe in size 41.5, much lighter than previous models. The previous models often gave the illusion of being heavy, associating the Infinite with lightweight running shoes. Now, it seems the R2 Infinite running shoes have successfully slimmed down, officially becoming a standard 'stylish shoe.'

Before wearing them, I specifically took out the R2 Cloud Run and R2 Equator for comparison. The R2 Infinite is clearly no longer in the 'platform shoe' style but is a very standard running shoe.

After putting them on, my feet did not appear large or bulky. I only felt excellent wrapping and a lightweight feel. The knit upper takes the comfort level up a notch, with no discomfort in the forefoot. The on-foot feel is soft, like a tight-fitting garment. The three-dimensional foam inside the heel closely fits the heel, providing excellent wrapping. The shoes are more inclined towards slow-running type running shoes, focusing on rebound and cushioning. I think the R2 Infinite can also bring a lightweight feel for lightweight acceleration runs, achieving a 'foot-shoe unity' effect!

Since receiving the R2 Infinite running shoes, I have worn them for three training sessions: a half marathon, a 200×10 interval run, and a 10-kilometer New Year's Eve event. I tested them on both roads and rubber tracks. The one-piece upper firmly wrapped my feet, soft and comfortable, with no pressure and excellent breathability. They fit well and are very lightweight.

On the day I received the shoes, I got the package in the morning, had lunch, and couldn't wait to put on the shoes for a 21-kilometer half marathon at a nearby school track in the afternoon. Winter in Nantong, Jiangsu, is quite cold, with temperatures around 5-12 degrees Celsius. In such weather, I completed the 21km run. My feet clearly felt the elastic feedback from the R2 Infinite's midsole. Because of the upper, my feet were quite cold at the beginning, but this also proved the excellent breathability of the R2 Infinite. I can only say that testing shoes in winter is challenging. Most marathon running shoes have breathable uppers made of lightweight materials. Fortunately, I didn't feel any discomfort or soreness after the half marathon. They say new shoes need to be broken in, but it seems the R2 Infinite running shoes require zero break-in and can be worn for running right away. Since it had rained the night before, there was no slipping or skidding on the wet rubber track.

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A day later, I returned to the school track for an interval run with the R2 Infinite running shoes. Although they are not racing shoes, their 228-gram weight made me feel they could handle speed runs. After a 200×10 interval session, the feeling was similar to running in my usual 361°-BIO-SPEED racing shoes. The R2 Infinite running shoes successfully handled the speed run challenge, proving that these shoes are quite extraordinary.

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As 2019 is coming to an end, a brand new year is slowly approaching. Don't forget your dreams; everything will be better!

Goodbye 2019, Hello 2020!

On January 1st, my good friend, his uncle, and I signed up for the 'Nantong's Most Beautiful Track New Year's International Ride and Run.' We participated in the 10-kilometer running event. The purpose of this event was to welcome the new year, further test the running shoes, and accompany my good friend and help his uncle complete his first 10 kilometers. His uncle is 62 years old, and there aren't many people of his age who still love running. I believe his uncle's persistence and effort will surely lead to success.

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There was a small incident before the race. Originally, the three of us planned to go to the event site together. Unexpectedly, my careless friend had a dinner and drinking session with colleagues the day before the race. Drinking is fine, but he got very drunk, and the next day he was still asleep and not fully sober. I had to go to the event site alone. However, my friend, who loves running, is a true runner. He and his uncle managed to come. He told me that, first, he had promised to participate with me and couldn't break his word; second, he had promised his uncle to witness his 10-kilometer challenge and had to fulfill it. Although his spirit is commendable, remember that you shouldn't drink and run, and don't run after drinking. This is a wrong example. He forced himself to run a 'drunken run,' and in the end, he and his uncle successfully completed the 10 kilometers. The process is not worth detailing, but his uncle's post-race social media post is truly worth learning from for many young people.

Since it was a small event, there weren't any exciting moments captured of me wearing the R2 Infinite running shoes. Just a few simple photos will have to do. Running on the road with the R2 Infinite running shoes felt very lightweight. The shoes provided enough bounce without a sinking feeling, making them very comfortable. The difference in thickness between the forefoot and heel during running highlighted the shoe's drop advantage, optimizing our running posture. They can easily handle daily road surfaces, and running on cobblestone roads and uneven surfaces is also safe, thanks to the anti-slip rubber on the shoe's bottom.

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The R2 Infinite running shoes give me a feeling of comfort, lightness, fit, and breathability, making them versatile for various outfits. The cushioning of the sole and the wrapping of the upper are excellent. The upper is soft and lightweight, providing stable support during running and perfectly adapting to different road surfaces. Recommended for beginner and intermediate runners.

1. Currently, the R2 Infinite running shoes are only available in black for both men and women. I look forward to more attractive color options in the future, as the appearance of good running shoes is also an important aspect.

2. The current price is moderate, but the cost-performance ratio is not high enough.