Think of the Racer as a more responsive and faster version of the super comfy Escalante. Slightly firmer for better response and super breathable upper. I ran the Big Sur Marathon in this shoe last year on very little training and had a great day! My first choice for long mileage, but it performs amazingly well at all distances!
NorCalRunDudeThe racer also uses a less stretchy mesh for the upper which eliminates foot slide during cornering which, for me, is the biggest problem with the regular escalante.