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- The local running shoe industry is growing fast with modern designs often compared by netizens to various global brands.
- Visual similarities occur due to global industry trends leaning toward thick midsoles and uniform futuristic looks.
- Differences in foam technology, weight, and stability make the feel of local shoes distinct from international running shoe brands.
The world of running shoes has developed very rapidly in recent years. Designs are becoming more modern, technology is getting serious, and appearances are bolder.
But amidst this growth, a common comment often heard on social media is whether they look like foreign brands.
Some compare the midsole shape, others highlight the upper silhouette, and even the color combinations are considered to have the same vibe as famous global running shoes.
Nevertheless, many local runners see this as natural. This is because global running shoe design trends are now moving in a similar direction: thick cushioning, aggressive shapes, and futuristic looks.
So, are local shoes often said to resemble foreign brands truly similar, or do they have different characteristics when worn?
Here are five models most frequently compared by netizens.
1. Ortuseight Hyperblast vs Hoka Clifton
The Ortuseight Hyperblast is often said to have a design vibe similar to Hoka, especially from the thick midsole shape and modern sporty silhouette.
At a glance, there is indeed a visual similarity.
However, when worn, the feel of both is quite different. Hoka focuses more on a super soft cushion sensation for long runs, while the Hyperblast feels lighter and more flexible for daily runs or easy runs.
So, although their outer appearance is sometimes compared, their running character still has its own identity.
2. 910 Nineten Haze Vision vs ASICS Superblast
The 910 Nineten Haze Vision has been widely discussed because its design is considered to have a vibe similar to the ASICS Superblast, especially in the outsole shape and aggressive upper.
But after trying it, the feel turns out to be quite different. The Superblast feels more premium and responsive for high mileage, while the Haze Vision is more relaxed and comfortable for urban daily running.
3. Specs Coanda vs adidas Adizero
The Specs Coanda is often compared to the adidas Adizero line because of its slim and fast-looking shape.
Moreover, some of its colorways have a modern race shoe vibe.
However, the Coanda is actually aimed more at daily runners looking for a balance between lightness and comfort, not a fully aggressive race shoe like the Adizero.
4. League Kumo Racer vs Nike Vaporfly
The League Kumo Racer was widely discussed because its silhouette is considered reminiscent of the Nike Vaporfly, especially from the high midsole shape and race-oriented design.
Nevertheless, its performance character is still far different. The Vaporfly is indeed made for elite marathon performance, while the Kumo Racer is more suitable for runners wanting to try a lightweight shoe without an extreme price.
5. Eagle Running Series vs New Balance Fresh Foam
Several of Eagle’s latest models have also been said to have a vibe similar to New Balance Fresh Foam because their design is cleaner compared to previous generations.
However, Eagle still plays in the casual runner segment, focusing on daily comfort and affordable prices.
Why Do Many Running Shoe Designs Now Look Similar?
Actually, it is not just local brands that have similar designs to each other. In the modern running world, many global brands are also starting to use almost identical design patterns: thick midsoles, rocker shapes, minimalist uppers, aggressive silhouettes, and futuristic vibes.
Because the industry trend is moving in that direction, it is natural that some shoes end up looking like they have a similar vibe.
Similar Design Does Not Mean Similar Feel
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