Newton Gravity Plus Generation 2 Review: A Softer, Faster Renewable Running Shoe

Introduction

The Newton Gravity Plus Generation 2 is the follow-up to last year’s first version, which already marked a big departure for a brand typically known for low-drop, aggressive running shoes. The original was snappy but with a slightly softer sole, and it simply felt more fun to run in.

Generation 2 takes that direction further and adds something new: a midsole material called Hytril, paired with Newton’s Energy foam. The result is a shoe that feels softer and even more responsive than before.

Who This Shoe Is For

Newton shoes are traditionally low drop and aggressive, but the Gravity Plus Gen 2 does not feel that aggressive at all. That makes it a genuine option for runners who want a lightweight trainer that can still handle faster work.

At 8.6 ounces for a men’s size 9 and 7.2 ounces for a women’s size 8, it sits firmly in lightweight trainer territory, with a 3-millimeter drop. Where it shines is workouts: there is a lot of bounce, and the softer feel makes tempo sessions genuinely enjoyable.

Sustainability: Recycled, Renewable, Biodegradable

One of the biggest stories here is that Newton is moving toward making totally renewable shoes, and Generation 2 pushes further in that direction.

The upper is fully recycled mesh and includes a marker showing the shoe is partially made from four water bottles. The outsole is biodegradable, and the midsole is made from renewed materials. For runners who care about the environmental footprint of their gear, this is one of the more committed efforts in the category.

Ride and Performance

The combination of the new Hytril foam and the Energy midsole foam has made the shoe feel softer and even more responsive. Where the first version sat closer to the trainer edge, this one is getting faster for workouts.

The softness also changes how the shoe feels underfoot: it lets the lugs compress more, which is why the 3-millimeter drop does not feel as low as the numbers suggest. There is plenty of cushioning for the mileage, but the bounce is what makes faster sessions fun.

Fit and Comfort

The fit is one of the strong points. The recycled upper material sits really comfortably against the skin, and the shoe offers a wider fit than you might expect.

It is also super comfortable sockless, which is a nice bonus for runners who prefer to go without socks in warmer weather.

Things to Consider Before Buying

If you have never run in a lugged Newton shoe before, this is a reasonable one to start with, since the softer ride takes the edge off the traditionally aggressive feel. Runners who liked the first Gravity Plus will find more of the same character, just softer and quicker.

Buying Advice

If you want a lightweight trainer with plenty of cushioning that doubles as a genuinely fun workout shoe, the Gravity Plus Gen 2 deserves a look. The sustainability credentials are a genuine differentiator rather than a marketing afterthought.

Conclusion

The Newton Gravity Plus Generation 2 refines a formula that already worked: a snappy, lugged trainer made softer and faster with new Hytril and Energy foam, wrapped in recycled, renewable, and biodegradable materials. For runners curious about Newton, this might be one to check out.