text: I am a casual runner, logging about 15-25 miles a week. My favorite shoe of the last decade was the Brooks Green Silence. The fit, toe box, zero drop and cushioning were just right for me and my larger-than-it-should-be frame. Since Brooks stopped making the Green Silence I hunted different shoes, different philosophies of design, and nothing ever worked quite right. Everything Brooks recommended was a compromise.<br /><br />Then I decided to try Altra. I was sold after the first 100 yards. The Instinct actually feels like the next generation of the Green Silence. Everything about Instinct is what I want in a running shoe. The fit, the weight, the open toe box, the bit of cushion when I need it, the zero drop (and Altra's fantastic customer service), it's all there. For a casual runner, someone who wants a bit of cushion, this is a great shoe.