TYR RD-1X DS Runner Review: A Runner, But Also Not

Introduction to the TYR RD-1X DS Runner

KALEB: What makes a running shoe? Sorry, not trying to get all Plato here, but when I first saw the TYR RD-1X DS, I was a bit confused. My first thought was, “I roasted the original RD-1X about looking like a grandpa shoe. Now they’re doing it on purpose?”

The R2D2, er, the Nintendo 3DS, er, the TYR RD-1X DS (nailed it) is a continuation/parallel to the RD-1X, TYR’s standard daily trainer that Michael and I reviewed about a year ago. Presumably, the DS stands for “Dad Shoe” because while the midsole remains identical, the upper has been entirely redone to fit the modern-day fashion standard of trying to look as old as humanly possible. Plasticky overlays, big midsole wraps, everything you’d expect minus velcro straps. Despite looking far better suited for form than function, TYR claims that the WD-40 — ahem, the RD-1X DS — is “your ultimate go-to runner.”

So, grab your suspenders and hike your waistband up around your ribcage because this grandpa is apparently ready to hit the road.

What we like about the TYR RD-1X DS Runner

KALEB:  Unfortunately, from a running perspective, I don’t have a whole lot to put here. The TYR RD-1X DS builds on the existing RD-1X model, and that shoe is a really solid daily trainer. All the midsole components that Michael and I liked about that shoe apply to this one. TYR’s SURGE NRG midsole compound is firm but reliable with a slight bounce, and the 4 mm sheet of rubber on the outsole will make sure the RD-1X DS lasts as long as any grandpa rightfully should. The overlays make for a really stable experience, and I’d honestly consider this shoe for casual pickup court sports.

What we don’t like about the TYR RD-1X DS Runner

KALEB: Okay, I’ll be honest, this isn’t really a running shoe, in my opinion. It’s stylish, sure, if you’re into that aesthetic. It’s stable and firm underfoot, and honestly, it’s a solid shoe to run five miles to the gym and then lift in if you’re the kind of lifter that likes shoes with a drop, but full disclosure: I only ran once or twice in the RD-1X DS because it really doesn’t belong on the long haul.

I mean, this thing is 12 ounces flat, and while it doesn’t feel like a rock because most of that weight is distributed above your foot in the upper, it’s still a hunk of a shoe that doesn’t give much back in the way of energy return, cushion, or overall comfort. The lacing system is pretty clunky with all those overlays, and it’s not particularly flexible, which makes the midsole feel stiff as well. The tongue tends to rub and bite into my feet for the first mile or so of a run, and on top of all that, the RD-1X DS runs about a half-size short, which makes it look and feel a little childish.

Even from a style perspective, the mesh of the upper looks a little bit cheap. Plus, the stark black-and-white colorway that makes the rest of the TYR line look so sleek makes the RD-1X DS a little hard to pair with the right outfit since it’s going to automatically become the statement piece.

Final thoughts on the TYR RD-1X DS Runner

KALEB: The TYR RD-1X DS confused me a little, to be sure, but it didn’t disappoint me all that much. I’ve come to expect some really solid things from TYR, but seeing this shoe on paper, I wasn’t hyping myself up for the next great daily trainer. If you’re curious about what TYR’s all about, snag yourself the true daily trainer version of this shoe, the RD-1X. Better yet, try out the Valkyrie Speedworks for a really nice tempo shoe with a dialed fit.

TYR has just dropped the price on many of its running shoes, so now’s a good time to try them out before the next versions are released. As for the RD-1X DS, unless your name is Joe and your grandson just found the last golden ticket, maybe keep this one on the shelf, paired with a nice set of suspenders.

You can pick up the TYR RD-1X DS Runner on sale for $113 at TYR using the buttons below.