bimai pace2.0 running shoes not just jogging mode
I am very honored to once again participate as a reviewer in the evaluation of Bmai's Pace 2.0 jogging shoes. Having previously worn Bmai's 10K first and second generations, as well as the 21K second generation, I am more inclined to understand these running shoes from my own perspective. Bmai defines these shoes as entry-level for 5K, but I prefer to see them as everyday wear rather than professional jogging shoes.
This is also the original intention of my application for these running shoes. Compared to professional jogging shoes, these shoes almost cover many characteristics of casual running shoes. The monochrome design, combined with streamlined design and a small drop between the front and rear midsoles (8mm drop), can meet the cushioning needs of daily walking. Therefore, my evaluation may not be from the perspective of an athlete but more focused on everyday wear.
Appearance
To be honest, the appearance might evoke different feelings for different people. This Pace 2.0 is actually the second generation. The first generation used a knitted upper (the earliest 10K first and second generations also had knitted uppers). This second generation returns to the traditional jacquard mesh upper (used in Bmai's 21K and 24K) possibly to make the running shoes more professional in protection, adding a collision-resistant toe cap. The monochrome design focuses more on everyday wear, unlike the darker knitted design of the first generation.
Regarding which is more breathable, the knitted upper or the jacquard mesh, I personally feel that the jacquard mesh of this Bmai shoe may not have reached the ideal state in terms of breathability. To enhance the protective performance of the upper, the two-layer design may not be particularly breathable for an athlete. However, for everyday wear without a lot of sweating, it is still acceptable.
From an appearance perspective, the first generation seems to be Bmai's attempt at a knitted upper. Upgrading to the second generation with a large amount of jacquard mesh and monochrome design makes these running shoes more suitable for everyday wear and more fashionable.
Fit
Since these running shoes are more inclined towards casual wear, they might be larger than typical professional running shoes (I wore size 44 for the 21K and 10K second generations, but size 43 fits just right for these). So, if you choose a pair of casual running shoes, you won't pursue the wrapping feeling of professional running shoes.
Honestly, without having worn the first generation, I can't analyze the difference in foot feel between the first and second generations. However, the midsole feel of Bmai's 10K first and second generations is different (the former is harder, the latter is softer). The 21K maintains a relatively hard feel, suggesting that long distances might require stronger support. I am very ashamed that I haven't experienced the 42K, so I can't judge its feel. However, the foot feel of this Pace 2.0 is very soft.
But I have to complain about the tongue part. The first generation used an integrated tongue design, while the second generation uses a separated tongue. The wearing experience is not particularly pleasant. This time, the tongue is made of a very thin layer (possibly for weight reduction and breathability). When I wear them, the tongue folds (possibly because of my high arch), causing discomfort on the instep after wearing them for a long time, requiring adjustment of the tongue.
Performance
For a pair of casual running shoes, cushioning support is not as important as imagined. Therefore, I prefer to comprehensively evaluate the performance of these shoes.
These running shoes are more suitable for everyday wear because the softer foot feel allows you to enjoy more comfortable cushioning while walking. The rebound performance may feel different depending on the scenario and intensity. For sports scenarios, this rebound might be more suitable for lighter individuals. For me, it is more inclined towards everyday wear.
Apart from the tongue, the overall protection and wrapping feel of the upper are quite good. Especially with the addition of a collision-resistant toe cap in the second generation, protection is further enhanced. Additionally, the extensive use of hot-pressed PU film in the second generation further increases the support performance of the shoes.
As for the wave-patterned outsole, it increases bending performance to a certain extent. The small particle design of the sole also increases friction with the ground to some extent. However, compared to the anti-slip and wear-resistant outsoles of professional jogging shoes, these shoes do not perform as well, especially on relatively slippery surfaces where you need to walk cautiously.
Overall Evaluation
These are casual jogging shoes. The fashionable appearance design and monochrome matching are more suitable for everyday wear and short-distance jogging. They are also more suitable for sportswear that does not have a strong demand for cushioning. Of course, I suggest using an integrated tongue design for better comfort in terms of details.
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