Ena Athletics Proto Runner 1 review

Proto’ means ‘first’ or ‘foremost,’ emphasizing the surprising fact that, despite Greece’s deep connection to the Olympics and the marathon, the ENA Athletics Proto Runner 1 running shoe is “the first premium athletic brand born from the heart of Greece.”

Its inaugural shoe, the Runner 1, certainly comes at a premium price. But does it fulfill expectations of a premium runner shoe? Our expert tester James Witts finds out…

Ena Athletics Proto Runner 1 design

A key factor in its steep RRP is the carbon-fiber ‘propulsion plate’ integrated into the midsole. Carbon-plate shoes remain popular among both users and manufacturers, with a report by Business Research Insights stating that the global carbon-plate running shoe market was valued at $12.19 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to around $17 billion by 2032.

These are huge numbers, especially considering that this sector only emerged in 2017 as part of Nike’s Breaking2 project. The growth is largely driven by studies like one published in 2021 in the Journal of Applied Physiology, which found that male and female runners in several high-profile marathons were approximately 2% and 2.6% faster when wearing carbon-plated shoes.

The increased speed comes from the greater energy return and propulsion provided by the carbon plate, which is why it’s featured in this shoe.

Ena Athletics Proto Runner 1 performance

But is it noticeable? Not really. That’s because the most dominant feature of this shoe is the large cutout between the heel and forefoot, connected by a tendon-like core—what ENA calls ‘Axicore.’

At first, this design felt unstable, an effect heightened by the thick Silphion double-density midsole. (Credit to ENA, as 35% of its composition comes from bio-based materials.) However, this feeling settled over time, though there was still a bit more lateral movement than I’m used to on the road.

Comfort is impressive, thanks not only to the thick midsole but also to a foam strip around the foot entry. I’ve never seen this before, but it created a cradling sensation that was especially appreciated on longer runs—where this shoe really shines.

It also seems well-suited for heavier triathletes. For faster interval training, though, it feels a little lacking, possibly due to its weight, which approaches 300g for a UK 10.5. That’s not excessively heavy, but it’s not exactly lightweight either.

Some thoughtful design details stand out, including a 3D knitted fabric upper that incorporates nylon for durability and has a medieval chainmail-like appearance—though it’s much more comfortable.

The tongue is equally well-cushioned, and the knotted laces provide extra grip, preventing them from coming undone mid-run.

Overall, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, but I’m excited to see what comes next from this innovative Greek brand.

Price:	£220/€230 (Europe only)
Sizes:	Men’s UK 5.5-11 / Women’s UK 3-8
Stack height:	33.5mm/25.5mm
Drop:	8mm
Midsole:	Silphion bio-based foam, carbon-fibre plate
Weight:	300g (UK 10.5)

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