Shoe Scoring System Overview
To simplify and summarize our thoughts on shoes, we thought it would be helpful to develop a system that displays a quick snapshot of our reviews to our followers. Some people do this with a 10-point scale, others do it with colors, we do it with pigeons (i.e. robots).
Over the course of much discussion and debate, we decided to roll with a 15-point system, divided into three categories: form, fit, and function. We’ll break down what each of those means in the section below, but we wanted this to encompass all aspects of the shoe with equal measure. We also wanted to make sure that we use the scale appropriately. Meaning, if a shoe has a terrible fit, it will actually get a low score. Too many shoe reviewers, pizza reviewers (looking at you, Mr. Portnoy), and other reviewers use a 10-point scale but rarely or never go below a 5. What’s the point of having the lower half of a scale?
In our opinion, a low score is bad, a middle score is average, and a high score is great. And that’s how we rate our shoes. So if you see something below a 5, you’ll know we don’t like it. If it’s between a 6-10, it’s fine. And if it’s between 11-15, it’s one of the better or best shoes we’ve tested in recent memory.
When it comes to multiple reviewers on a review, we’ll average out the scores but list each reviewers total in the conclusion of the review.
Check out the category breakdown below.
A total of 15 points, five for each category
This includes the design of the shoe, including weight, geometry, platform width, overlays/tech components, overall aesthetic
If the weight is 12 ounces and it’s ugly as hell and just seems like a throwaway design without any creativity, just to sell a shoe, then we’d give it a 1. If it’s a sub-9 ounce shoe that offers a smooth transition and looks great, utilizing some of their best run tech, then we’ll probably give it a 4 or 5.
The Adidas Adizero EVO SL gets a 5 on our form scale
This includes the fit of the upper, length, volume, lace fit, tongue, heel slip, hot spots, etc.
If the fit is off or sizing is off and we’re getting hot spots or rubbing and the laces suck and it’s hard to get a lockdown, then we’ll give it a 1. If it hugs the foot perfectly and there’s no heel slippage or tongue movement and it feels like we’re harnessed above the midsole throughout the run, then we’ll give it a 5.
The upper on all Brooks Hyperion models is exceptional in every way
This includes overall performance, ride, stability, value vs. output, durability, breathability, outsole grip, versatility, etc.
So, for instance, in the function category, if you really loved the ride but the outsole grip wasn’t great, then you could ding a point and give a 4. If it’s a $200 shoe that feels like a $140 shoe and the ride is flat and only good for runs of 5 miles and less, then we’d give it a 2 or maybe even a 1 in the function department.
The Asics Superblast 2 is one of the best all-around shoes and a 5 on the function scale
That about sums up our scoring process for our reviews. If you have any questions or comments or suggestions, let us know by reaching out to us at the link below!
Wanna collaborate, air your grievance about a shoe, or just say hi? Drop us a line.
