1:53:31
The Best Chinese Running Shoes in 2026 (feat. Jack Crago of JOGONCRAGO)
Yowana
Overview
This episode of the Mileage Podcast features an in-depth discussion with running shoe reviewer Jack Crago, also known as JOGONCRAGO. Crago, based in Perth, Australia, shares his expertise on the burgeoning Chinese running shoe market, highlighting its affordability and innovative technology. The conversation delves into specific shoe recommendations, the unique challenges and advantages of training in Australia's climate, and Crago's journey into shoe reviewing. He contrasts Chinese brands with Western counterparts, emphasizing the value and performance offered by Asian manufacturers, and discusses his academic pursuits in podiatry.
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Chapters
- Jack Crago, known as JOGONCRAGO, is a highly regarded and technically proficient running shoe reviewer from Perth, Australia.
- He is praised for his independent reviews, straightforward approach, and dedication to providing insightful analysis.
- Crago balances his passion for running and shoe reviewing with work on his family's farm and studies in podiatry.
- The podcast experienced technical difficulties, requiring a restart and a reduction in recording quality.
Understanding the reviewer's background and credibility is crucial for evaluating the subsequent shoe recommendations and insights.
The host compares Jack Crago to Boston Celtics player Derek White, citing his hard work, technical skill, and no-nonsense approach.
- Crago's interest began with his first running shoe, the Asics Novablast, which made running feel enjoyable.
- He was inspired by other prominent YouTube reviewers like Kofuzi and Ed Bud.
- Initially acquiring shoes through secondhand marketplaces due to budget constraints, he later expanded to reviewing.
- Reviewing Chinese running shoes became a focus due to their affordability, allowing him to review multiple pairs for the cost of one Western brand shoe.
Learning about Crago's path provides context for his analytical approach and highlights the accessibility of shoe reviewing as a hobby.
Crago mentions acquiring shoes through 'Marketplace' and doing swaps within the Perth region to manage costs.
- Perth, located on Australia's west coast, has a close-knit running community.
- The climate is extreme, with summers often reaching 30-40°C (86-104°F) and occasionally higher, while winters are mild (15-20°C or 59-68°F).
- Australia's vast size is comparable to the continental US, with most of the population concentrated along the coastlines.
- Crago is pursuing a degree in podiatry, which he believes will complement his understanding of running shoe technology.
Understanding the environmental and geographical context helps appreciate the unique demands placed on runners and the potential influences on shoe preferences.
Geraldton, north of Perth, once recorded 50°C (122°F), illustrating the extreme heat experienced in Western Australia.
- Chinese running shoes offer significant value, with super shoes costing a fraction of their Western counterparts (e.g., $60 USD vs. $150+ USD).
- Brands like Leinuo and Anta are emerging as dominant players with advanced technology.
- Chinese manufacturers are quicker to implement new foam technologies (like PEBA and ATPU) across various shoe models, including daily trainers.
- While Western brands often 'drip-feed' new tech, Chinese brands integrate it rapidly, offering better performance-to-price ratios.
This section reveals how the Chinese market provides accessible, high-performance running gear, challenging the dominance of established Western brands.
A shoe resembling the Adidas Adios Pro 4, featuring PEBA foam and a rocker, was purchased for approximately $90 AUD (around $63 USD).
- The Dinafish Xiaan (also referred to as Shiaan) is highly recommended as a lightweight, cushioned, and protective daily trainer, superior to the Asics Superblast for many paces.
- The Anta Shock Wave 2.0 (Zone 2) is a lighter, more nimble option, akin to a Nike Invincible Run, but suffers from rapid outsole wear.
- The Leinuo Fading Challenger 5 is considered the 'goat' of the Chinese speed training market, offering a blend of cushioning, protection, and a flexible carbon plate.
- The Fading Elite 6 provides a soft, bouncy, and potentially marathon-worthy experience, though its stability is a point of consideration.
These specific shoe recommendations provide actionable insights for runners looking to explore the Chinese market for performance and value.
The Dinafish Xiaan is praised for its smooth heel-to-toe transition and a unique neoprene expansion joint in the toe box for a comfortable fit.
- Several Chinese brands utilize the same foam suppliers, such as Shinsel, leading to similar midsole technologies across different brands.
- There's a theory that some Chinese brands operate out of the same factories as Western brands, allowing for comparable quality.
- Chinese brands are often more willing to release aggressive, performance-oriented shoes without the perceived 'softening' or 'sanding off rough edges' seen in some Western market adaptations.
- Consistency is a strength; if one shoe from a Chinese brand is good, others from that brand are often reliable performers.
Understanding the manufacturing and technological landscape explains the rapid innovation and competitive pricing within the Chinese running shoe industry.
The midsole foam in the Dowin PB Pro feels very similar to the Adidas Adios Pro 1's foam, suggesting shared technology or manufacturing processes.
- Crago currently favors stiffer, lower-stack shoes for training to build strength and elasticity in his lower legs.
- He notes a potential correlation between faster running times and a preference for firmer, more responsive shoes.
- While softer, max-cushioned shoes are beneficial for high mileage and comfort, Crago leans towards more aggressive options for speed work.
- The choice between shoe types can depend on training cycles, personal preference, and the specific demands of a race or workout.
This discussion highlights how individual training goals and progression influence shoe selection, offering a nuanced perspective beyond simple brand loyalty.
Crago uses the Leinuo Fading Elite 5, an earlier version of a shoe with a sharp, responsive foam, for his speed sessions to generate force through his hamstrings, calves, and Achilles.
Key takeaways
- The Chinese running shoe market offers exceptional value and cutting-edge technology, making high-performance footwear accessible to a wider audience.
- Jack Crago's expertise provides a reliable guide to navigating the diverse and rapidly evolving landscape of Chinese running shoes.
- Affordability does not equate to lower quality; many Chinese shoes rival or surpass Western counterparts in performance and innovation.
- Understanding midsole foams (PEBA, TPE, ATPU) and construction techniques is key to appreciating the technology in modern running shoes.
- Individual shoe preferences evolve with training experience, fitness levels, and specific performance goals.
- The climate in Western Australia presents unique challenges for runners, influencing training strategies and shoe choices.
- Pursuing a career in podiatry offers a scientific foundation for understanding biomechanics and footwear.
Key terms
PEBA FoamTPU ShankCarbon PlateMidsoleOutsoleRocker GeometryStack HeightDrop (Heel-to-Toe)Super ShoesDaily TrainersSpeed TrainersPodiatry
Test your understanding
- What are the primary advantages of Chinese running shoes compared to Western brands, according to Jack Crago?
- How does the climate in Perth, Australia, influence the running experience and potentially shoe selection?
- Describe the key characteristics that make the Dinafish Xiaan a highly recommended daily trainer.
- Explain the concept of 'drip feeding' technology in Western running shoe markets and how Chinese brands differ.
- Why might a runner's preference for shoe firmness change as they become faster or increase their mileage?