The Nike Shox R4 Men's Shoe has been called a lot of things-springy, resilient, bouncy. But to a runner, the Nike Shox R4 means one thing-responsive cushioning. Top plate distributes impact forces from the heel to the columns. Bottom plate produces a secure base for heel-to-toe transition. The columns control impact by collapsing quickly at first, and then slowly returning to their original height. Transition wedge allows for a smooth ride.