Kwicky QT2
KSwiss is committed to getting triathletes out of T2 as quickly as possible and the release of the Kwicky QT2 (Quick Transition 2) is a testament to that. The shoe may be the fastest transition shoe on the market.
Asthetics
I have to admit that upon first look I felt like it looked a bit like a bed time slipper. As you can see there are no laces over the top like a traditional shoe. The few lace eye-holes it has can be found near the shoe’s opening. The upper is smooth and unstitched, giving it its’ slipper look. However, I got used to it pretty quickly and think it is a decent looking shoe.
When you break it down, the QT2 is simply the standard Kwicky with a different upper. So, if you care more about your performance, as you should be, then looks shouldn’t matter. These will slip on quick and comfortably.
Performance
Similar to standard Kwicky’s, as this pretty much is – you’ll find these to be light and comfortable. When you slip them on the first thing you will notice is that there is no tongue. Because it doesn’t have the standard lace design a tongue isn’t needed. This is not a feature they tout but I think it is worth mentioning. I wish shoe companies made more running shoes without the tongue. The feel on the top of my foot is seamless and smooth. You never have to worry about the tongue slipping around.
The quick transition system is for real. It really is a breeze to get in and out of the shoes. You can easily tighten down the shoe with a quick tug on the laces. A retention clip locks your fit into place. You’re good to go in the blink of an eye.
Another feature of the QT2 that is utilized in other KSwiss racing flats is a drainage system that allows water to flow through the shoe with ease, minimizing the swish of soggy shoes. Don’t hesitate to throw water all over yourself.
Give the KSwiss QT2 a try if you’re on the market for a performance racing shoe for triathlon. They are light and will give you a performance advantage you will need.
Check out KSwiss.com for more information on the Kwicky QT2.
Kruuz 1.5
Of all of the different shoes that KSwiss creates for the different niche markets, I have to say they really nailed it with running flats. Their second edition of the Kruuz line does not disappoint. In fact, they’ve gotten better than the originals.
Asthetics
The most obvious change to the K-Ruuz is the color. I honestly was not a fan of the two-toned blowing shoe look from the 1.0 version. They looked great on pro triathletes as they burned up the run course but these guys and girls would look good in clown shoes. So, to see the 1.5s in what they call “Fiery Red” was a great change. It certainly is fiery and stands out from the pack, but in a classy way. These will look good as a casual shoe after retirement from my fleet of running shoes.
Performance
This is all that really matters, right? First off, I have to say that the fit of the 1.5's is much better for me than the 1.0's, primarily in the heel, which was loose in the previous model. They are now snug and “just right.”
I didn’t take the shoes out for a test drive until two days before the Wildflower Long Course triathlon in May 2012. It was an easy 5k and was pretty eventful, which is good, especially when you plan on wearing a new shoe on race day.
Race came and went. My initial reaction was “A+.” I don’t know what else I’d need in a flat. It is comfortable, super light (5.5 oz) and looks good. However, considering the nature of the Wildflower course I’d say I may have been better off with something a little beefier. The majority of the Wildflower run is on a trail and there are rocky sections that beat up my feet. The Kruuz 1.5 handled it but I could be each bend of the shoe like it was a part of my foot. This is not good on the trails. I flew on the road sections.
Since Wildflower I’ve had numerous road runs in them and I have more coming in the near future. I love these shoes. If you’re looking for a flat you must consider these, whether you’re a pure runner or a triathlete.
Check them out online at KSwiss.com.
