I personally test every product featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training gear. I buy the gear I test and may earn commissions on sales made through links on my site.
In the world of endurance training and sports, TYR is a well-established company. However, when you think of TYR, your mind likely doesn’t go to performance-focused shoes, which is what the TYR RD-1 Runner is.
Over the last year, TYR has built a small collection of shoes for training. For example, we have the TYR CXT-1 Trainer for CrossFit and cross-training and the TYR L-1 Lifter weightlifting shoes. As a fan of these shoes, I was excited to test the RD-1 Runner.
For my weekly 5k runs and my speed-focused run training, I’ve found the TYR RD-1 Runner to be a pretty strong performer. There are a couple of areas where I think this can be improved upon, though, and I’ll discuss those below.
In this TYR RD-1 Runner review, I’ll cover multiple topics that you should know before investing in these shoes.
Contents
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Who Should Invest In the TYR RD-1 Runner?
The TYR RD-1 Runner is a fairly well-rounded running shoe for tackling various distance runs. Thus far, I’ve used the RD-1 Runners to tackle multiple 5k runs, faster mile-focused training, and a few 5-mile runs.
This model’s Surge NRG Foam midsole has a nice level of responsiveness and I think if you like running shoes with thicker midsoles, then you’ll enjoy this shoe. When I first ran in these shoes, they reminded me of a blend of a pair of HOKA Shoes and the Nike Pegasus 39.
In addition, the TYR RD-1 Runner has a good level of breathability through its forefoot, so I could also see them being a good running shoe for those who plan to use them primarily for warm outdoor runs and treadmill runs.
For context, I’m primarily a strength athlete that blends athletic training and running into my weekly training. I think if you’re similar and you’re wanting a running shoe for recreational running indoors and outdoors, then you’ll enjoy the TYR RD-1 Runner.
TYR RD-1 Runner
$129.99
Best For
- Short to Mid-Range Runs
- Longer Distance Runs
- Narrow and Neutral-Width Feet
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Winter Runs
Who Shouldn’t Invest In the TYR RD-1 Runner?
That being said, I do think there are a few areas where the RD-1 Runner will fall short. First, if you have wide feet, then I think you’ll want to steer clear of this model. I found the toe box to be a little snug at times and I have a neutral-width foot.
Second, I’m not the biggest fan of this shoe for colder weather runs. I ran with these shoes the other day outside when it was 25 degrees and even with warmer socks my feet were getting a little cool. The breathability in this shoe works, but that comes at a cost for certain climates.
TYR RD-1 Runner Pros
Over the course of my runs and review process with the TYR RD-1 Runner, I’ve found multiple pros to like about this shoe.
- Easy Running Shoe Choice for Casual Runs
- Surge NRG Foam Midsole Is Responsive
- Upper Is Comfortable and Breathable
The first thing I like about the TYR RD-1 Runner is that I find it a good running shoe option for casual runs. It feels like an easy shoe to grab and put on for a variety of distances, especially for more recreational running.
I’ve enjoyed the performance of this shoe for my slower and faster runs, and even for my mile training where I was pushing sub-6 times, I found this shoe to be light enough to work for faster-paced and pick-up style running.
For recreational running, I think the TYR RD-1 Runner can be a good shoe to add to your line-up. On top of this, if you wear the TYR CXT-1 Trainer and enjoy its fit, then you’ll also resonate with this model’s fit and construction.
Another thing to like about the TYR RD-1 Runner is its midsole construction. This model features TYR’s signature Surge NRG Foam and I found it to have a nice responsiveness and bounce to it.
Whether I was focusing on a forefoot or midfoot bias while running faster or running with a slower pace and longer stride with a little heel strike, I thought the midsole did a good job accommodating all of these running styles.
I also like the 10mm heel-to-toe drop for this varied running context and if you enjoy higher drops in your running shoes, I think you’ll resonate with this model’s drop and midsole. The midsole was also comfortable for longer dog walks when I wanted a more cushioned shoe.
The last that I enjoy about the TYR RD-1 Runner is its upper construction. This model’s engineered mesh provides a nice level of breathability through the forefoot and midfoot.
Outside of its breathability, I also like the comfort that comes along with this mesh. I mentioned it above, but one of the other reasons outside of performance for why I find this shoe to be so easy to wear is that the upper is form-fitting and feels easy to wear for long durations.
TYR RD-1 Runner Cons
For the most part, the TYR RD-1 Runner has been a strong performer in my workouts. However, there are a couple of cons that I have with this model.
- Not Great for Wide Feet
- May Not Be the Best for Winter Runs
The first drawback with the TYR RD-1 Runner is that it’s not going to be the best running shoe for those with feet. I have a neutral-width feet and I found these shoes to be a little snug at times.
For example, I like the toe guard in this shoe for its support, but I found it to dig into my big toe at times when I was really focusing on faster-paced forefoot running. I’m hoping this breaks in over time, however, it’s definitely worth noting if you typically feel constricted in your toe boxes.
If you have a narrower foot-width or even a neutral-width foot, then you should resonate with the fit of these shoes for the most part. They somewhat remind me of the fit of the Pegasus running shoe line. This would be a good running shoe to wear toe separators after.
Another drawback that I found with the TYR RD-1 Runner is that it’s not going to be the best winter-friendly running shoe. If you invest in this model, then I’d suggest using them for summer, spring, fall, warmer winter days, and treadmill running.
Any time you have a running or training shoe with a high level of breathability, there’s always the drawback of its performance in cold weather. This shoe is no different so I’d suggest understanding where this model’s limitations lie to make sure they work for you.
Performance Breakdown
To assess the TYR RD-1 Runner’s performance, I put them through a variety of tests to assess their ability to perform in different contexts. I tested this model for short runs (3 miles and below), and mid-range runs (5 miles), and used them for light track workouts.
Keep in mind, I’m not an athlete only focused on endurance and add runs into my weekly training consisting of lifting and cross-training. If you’re a marathon runner, for example, then my review may have some limitations for your running needs.
Testing the TYR RD-1 Runner for Short Runs
For short runs, I really enjoy the performance of the TYR RD-1 Runner. I don’t always enjoy thicker running shoes for faster runs, but I found this model to be somewhat of an exception. Note, it can feel a little clunky at times, so if you’re not a fan of thicker shoes, keep that in mind.
I’ve used this model for a few fast miles and they’ve delivered a nice level of responsiveness. I also like the level of tread that the 4mm grooved rubber outsole delivered for these faster runs.
For 5k runs, I also thought the RD-1 Runner delivered a strong performance and see them as a good model for the casual runner. If you generally like thicker running shoes like HOKA models, then you should resonate with the TYR model as well.
I also like the upper construction for short runs, especially indoor treadmill runs. This model’s breathability was nice for post-workout runs where I was tackling slow runs and training in Zone 2 for some engine-building work.
Testing the TYR RD-1 Runner for Mid-Range Runs
For mid-range runs, the EVA Surge NRG Foam is definitely the star player for the RD-1 Runner. I found this midsole to have a nice level of “pop” and I found them to be more responsive than other thicker models like the Adidas Adizero Boston 10.
I also like the overall tread on these shoes for slightly longer runs outdoors. I never had issues with traction in these shoes and I think the outsole does a pretty good job of protecting the midsole of this shoe from breakdown caused by ground friction.
My only complaint with this model for runs exceeding four miles is that the toe box can feel a little snug at times. You may want to explore running shoes from companies like Altra if you’re worried about the width of these shoes limiting your running performance.
Once again, I didn’t test these shoes for long-distance runs because I don’t have them programmed in my current training blocks. For distances longer than five miles, you’ll want to explore other reviews for feedback.
Testing the TYR RD-1 Runner for Cross-Training and Walking
When it comes to light cross-training sessions or bodyweight workouts, the TYR RD-1 Runner does a pretty good job. The performance of this model feels pretty standard compared to other running shoes in this context.
For example, if you’re doing low-threshold plyometric work or bodyweight exercises, then you can definitely use the TYR RD-1 Runner without having to switch your shoes. These could be viable running shoes for track workouts.
For walking, I like the TYR RD-1 Runner and I think they’ll work well as a shoe for recreational running and long walks. This shoe’s heel-to-toe drop gives them a comfortable feel for walking and they deliver a nice level of comfort.
If you regularly wear running shoes for walking, I think you’ll enjoy the RD-1 Runner. I also think these shoes have a pretty simplistic and clean appearance to them which adds to their daily wear abilities.
Is the TYR RD-1 Runner Good for Beginners?
For beginner runners, I think the TYR RD-1 Runner could be a good running shoe to explore. This model’s midsole should accommodate most comfort preferences that beginners will have and I could see them as being a good shoe for anyone getting into running.
I also like the 10mm heel-to-toe drop on this shoe for beginner runners because it can serve as a great starting point for figuring out what drop works best with your running mechanics as you dial in your form.
Additionally, I could see the reinforced side support guards as being a nice construction feature for beginners who are trying to find their consistent stride and may have issues with a pronation or supination bias.
I think at the end of the day, if you’re a beginner wanting a running shoe for pre or post-workout runs or runs that range around 5k in distance, then you’ll be happy with the TYR RD-1 Runner.
TYR RD-1 Runner Sizing
For the TYR RD-1 Runner, I think most should be safe going true to size in this running shoe. The length runs true and this model has what I would describe as a neutral width.
If you wear Adidas Ultraboost or Nike Pegasus running shoes, I’d suggest sizing these the same as this model. In addition, if you wear the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, I’d also suggest going with the same size in the RD-1 Runner.
For wide feet, I’d suggest treading lightly before investing in this shoe. It definitely lacks width through the toe box so it may feel limiting for runners with feet widths that exceed a D-width.
- TYR RD-1 Runner Sizing Thoughts: Go true to size.
If you have additional sizing questions about the TYR RD-1 Runner or need help sizing them for you, drop a comment below and I can try to help out.
Price Assessment
For the TYR RD-1 Runner, you can expect to pay $129.99 USD. This price point is pretty similar to what you’ll pay for most mid-tier running shoes and I think it’s pretty fair for this model.
Overall, I think the build quality of this shoe is worth its price point and I like the features and materials used in this model. It feels decently durable and my model has yet to show any signs of breakdown after my running and walking assessments.
Note, there are more budget-friendly running shoes on the market, so if $129.99 USD is a little high for you, then I’d suggest looking into models like the Reebok Floatride Energy 4.
TYR RD-1 Runner
$129.99
Best For
- Short to Mid-Range Runs
- Longer Distance Runs
- Narrow and Neutral-Width Feet
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Winter Runs
Construction Details
The TYR RD-1 Runner features a few construction details that are worth knowing before investing in them. Below are some of the key features to note about the RD-1 Runner’s construction.
- Heel-to-toe Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 11.35 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Engineered Mesh Upper (100% polyester)
- 4mm Grooved Rubber Outsole
- Surge NRG Foam Midsole
- Beveled Heel
- Padded and Gusseted Tongue
- 2mm EVA Strobel
- 6 Core Eyelets With a 7th for Lace-Lock
If you have additional construction-related questions about the TYR RD-1 Runner, feel free to leave a comment below and I can hopefully clarify details for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Do the TYR RD-1 Runner fit true to size?
Q:How should I clean the TYR RD-1 Runner?
Takeaway Thoughts
The TYR RD-1 Runner has been a consistent running shoe across all of my running tests. This shoe is relatively no-frills in nature and I think it delivers a strong construction for recreational, semi-serious, and beginner runners.
As a first pass for a running shoe, I feel like TYR created a pretty strong model with the RD-1 Runner. There are certainly areas where this shoe could be improved, but it’s been a strong shoe for my running needs thus far.
If you have additional questions on the TYR RD-1 Runner and if it’s right for you, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).
