bimai 21k lite running shoes will make you want to run
I saw the notification for the review of the Bmai 21k Lite 'Light as a Leaf' in the Codoon group. As someone who combines running and writing, I couldn't resist applying for this review. Luckily, I received the review notification during my Virgo month, making it a small birthday gift. This is the second pair of shoes I've received after the 2017 Chengdu Double Heritage Marathon official rabbit shoes. Thanks to Codoon and Bmai for this opportunity. This article is written by the genuine 'Running to The Hague,' remember that.
Unboxing and Inspection
The packaging is unique, with an air cushion soft pack to ensure no deformation due to pressure during transportation, affecting wear and actual performance. Thumbs up for this! Additionally, it can be used to store other fragile items, making it a travel essential.
Details Explanation
Honestly, I'm neither a manufacturer nor a professional, so I don't really understand the technical terms. I can only explain my real experience in the article, making it easier for those who get confused by English terms (including myself) to understand and use.
From the picture, you can see the structure of the '3D printed jacquard mesh' on the front of the shoe. Experience introduction: The breathable holes, which are the 3D jacquard mesh, provide a layered feel. When facing a breeze, you can feel the wind entering your feet, providing a cooling effect. The ventilation of the feet can offer durability and comfort during running, especially noticeable in windy conditions.
The midsole uses 85-degree hard EVA. Experience introduction: During running, you can clearly feel the durability from the support, which is this midsole. The transition between the feet is smooth, reducing the load on the calves and soles. If you are a fast runner, it's a good choice for training, maintaining a relatively good speed without causing injuries due to excessive speed. If you are a slow runner, it can be used for marathon races.
The official introduction mentions a pace greater than 5.30. I don't quite understand what greater than 5.30 means, and I couldn't find any results online. So, I'll explain my personal opinion here. After running 5km and 21km, with paces around 4.24 and 5.43, I can't determine if greater than 5.30 means faster or slower. Personally, I think the pace depends on the runner. For a half marathon, a pace around 5.30 is better.
The toe cap has built-in 3M reflective strips. From the picture, you can clearly see the white lines as reflective decorations. The white part shines under streetlights.
Running Test
A total of 6 test runs were conducted: 10km, 10km, 15km, 21km, 5km, and 5km.
(1) First 10km run:
On the first day of the review, on a plastic track, the new shoes didn't cause severe chafing, no blisters, average support, slight foot fatigue after running, possibly due to the new shoes. In terms of pace, it was possible to run in the 4-minute range, showing progress compared to the set pace of over 5.30. During the run, there was a slight shock-absorbing effect, suitable for medium to fast runners. The reflective markers in the second picture are suitable for night running. Overall, the first 10km run with new shoes was above average. The only complaint is that the Codoon app, with the phone on the waist, had inaccurate step frequency and stride data, and some step data was lost.
(2) 15km road run:
Road run, cloudy weather, preparing and adjusting for the subsequent 21km. 15km pace was 6.00, step frequency 178, stride 93, slow run. Due to not running long distances for a long time, I felt a bit tired after the run, a personal reason.
(3) Half marathon 21km:
Half marathon 21km, 16km road run, 5km plastic track, the fourth test run. The purpose of this run was to test the design intent of these shoes and understand their positioning. Completed with a pace of 5.43, just finished in 2 hours. After the run, there was no significant pain or discomfort in the feet, indicating good support and shock absorption. For runners aiming to break 2 hours, it's a good choice.
(4) Progression:
The last 5km run, light rain, plastic track. Initially planned to finish early and go home, but accidentally set a personal best. This also expanded the usage range of these shoes, and my running performance progressed. Pace was 4.24, 5km in 22 minutes and 02 seconds, tied the shoelaces once midway, otherwise, it would have been 21 minutes. From this test, the lightweight running shoes can achieve good results. However, compared to my Nike and green shoes, they are slightly heavier, and the sole is a bit thicker. This thickness provides more stability and support, making the speed comparable to Nike and green shoes' racing standards. The sole is much lighter than the GT2000-4, with slightly less support, but the positioning is different.
(5) Other 10km runs:
Two 10km runs, both maintained at 49 minutes, with good comfort after running.
Summary
These shoes are positioned as lightweight running shoes for half-marathon distances. In reality, they far exceed their positioning, especially in terms of pace.
First, these shoes do not have obvious signs of chafing, and new shoes are very comfortable to run in.
Second, they are suitable for medium to slow runners who want to achieve good results.
Third, they are suitable for speed training, providing foot care and speed intervals.
If you want a pair of shoes that can improve performance without hurting your feet, these are a good choice.
Suggestions: 1. The color options are limited, currently only black and blue, and the style could be enhanced.
2. The second and third generations of these shoes can be more refined in terms of positioning, especially in terms of pace.