Uyn shoes review: a sock-like feel for asphalt runners
11-12-2025
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Pictures: Siri Schubert
Italian brand Uyn has launched new road running shoes. The shoes are unlike any I’ve worn before – and surprisingly good.
The Alacrify from Italian brand Uyn turns heads with its looks alone. These shoes don’t hold back, but make a bold statement. They’re also different to pretty much any other running shoes I’ve worn to date.
Uyn (Unleash Your Nature) are made for fast running on asphalt. That’s exactly what I need right now, as I want to work on my speed and incorporate some intervals and tempo runs into my running as the new year approaches. That’s why I’ve switched from trails to flat terrain for at least part of my training. If the pink’s a little too flashy for your taste, you can also go for the black and green model.
Innovative material and sock-like feel
Many shoe manufacturers claim the upper material of their shoes feels like a sock. With Uyn, this is truly the case. No wonder, after all, the Italian brand made a name for itself with its socks and skiwear. The company equips several ski teams, including the Italian and French teams, with socks and functional underwear.
The upper feels very soft and light. It’s made from eucalyptus fibres, which is a renewable raw material that helps make the shoe more eco-friendly. The lacing’s slightly diagonal and short – as is the case with many shoes these days. That should also be enough, as the upper keeps the foot in position.
Solid sole with specially shaped plate
Even in times of extremely cushioned shoes, this midsole stands out. It looks solid with its rounded heel and curved midfoot and forefoot section. According to our own measurements, the heel is 44 millimetres thick (the manufacturer has no information on this), the forefoot 30 millimetres, which means an enormous pitch of 14 millimetres.
The midsole is made of EVA foam with various densities. What is known as Propulsyon Foam is used in the forefoot, while the sole is made of firmer and more stable Freebound material. The aim is to achieve a balance between damping and springback.
Source: Uyn
The power chassis in the sole is also unusual: it’s continuous at the front and splits at the back, enclosing the heel like a pair of pliers. Unlike many state-of-the-art running shoes, it’s not made of carbon, but of softer, more flexible plastic. This puts less strain on bones and tendons than shoes with hard carbon plates.
The outsole is divided into two parts. At the back, it looks like a horseshoe, which allows the heel to sink in. The front is said to have been inspired by the hooves of an ibex.
The test
High time to take my hooves, erm, feet, out for a run in the Alacrify shoes. According to the manufacturer, they’re best suited for runs up to half marathon distance.
My first run is a relaxed eight-kilometre recovery run, but even then I notice that my shoes are dying to go faster. Their high pitch and unusual shape almost automatically make me run on my forefoot. My cadence is also higher than usual. This is good news because a higher cadence almost always means more efficient running.
Next, I test the shoes at 90-second intervals, which goes surprisingly well. Running feels fast and light, the foot position provides propulsion.
At first, I was worried I’d slide back and forth too much in the soft upper material. In combination with the high sole, I was afraid of twisting my ankle.
Fortunately, this didn’t happen. The heel’s enclosed by the midsole and the two-part plastic chassis and is surprisingly stable.
Later on that day, I wore the Alacrify on a tempo run. Here, too, I was pleasantly surprised by the great running experience. Even on a dirt track and on uneven asphalt paths, I never even got close to twisting my ankle.
In a nutshell
A specialised shoe for fast runners
The Alacrify shoes from Uyn are special in many ways. Their look, material and sole construction make them stand out from the crowd. But that doesn’t mean they’re the perfect choice for everyone. Joggers who prefer a relaxed trot probably won’t particularly appreciate these shoes.
Instead, this road running shoe is more suitable for runners who want to add something new to their running game – provided they have a forefoot running style.
Personally, I wouldn’t use it for daily training. But on days when I’m doing fast runs on paved paths or intervals, I like to wear them. Why? Because the unfamiliar running sensation makes me focus on my running style and gives me a boost of motivation. They also increase my pace. However, I can’t say for sure if this is really down to the shoes. It could also be because I’m well rested and have been doing more speed sessions. Plus, the test situation may have pushed me to run fastere.
Pro
- Sole construction designed for forefoot running
- Good heel stabilisation
- Supports fast running styles
- Low-rigidity power chassis
- Upper is soft and comfortable
Contra
- Not suitable for beginner runners
- Upper provides little support
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
