Tempo

Diadora Atomo V7000-2

Diadora's hand-built Italian trainer — 275 g on a firm, low-drop Anima midsole, for tempo work and long-distance races.

The Atomo V7000-2 is the running shoe Diadora assembles by hand in Italy, and it runs firmer and livelier than the rest of its road line. The Anima midsole gives 35 mm at the heel with a low 5 mm drop, and Diadora rates its own cushioning a step below the Nucleo 2's while rating its responsiveness a step above — which is the whole point of it.

It suits you if you like a low, connected ride and want one shoe for tempo work, long efforts and a half marathon. The Duratech 5000 outsole is built to outlast the foam above it.

It is not a soft daily trainer, and there is no plate to do the work for you. If you want something to absorb tired legs on an easy day, buy something taller.