The shoe was a revelation: It was the first to use ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam padding, which was lighter and softer than other midsole materials used at the time. Q+A With Running Shoe Expert Michael Charboneauīrooks has been around for over 100 years, but its story as a running company began in 1974, when the brand released its first running shoe, the Villanova.How We Selected The Best Brooks Running Shoes.What to Consider With Brooks Running Shoes.