Buying trainers can be as time consuming as finding that perfect-fit bra or pair of flattering jeans. With rows of running shoes lining the walls of most sport stores it can be intimidating to find the right style for you. MC health and copy editor Kate Mason has trialled the latest running shoes in stores now and paired them with the best running apparel, so you don’t have to…
What: Adidas Ultra Boost.
Best for: Long-distance road races.
Why: Adidas has unveiled its ‘greatest running shoe ever’ – a bold claim that’s hard to refute. If slipping your feet into these trainers is like sinking into a luxurious king size bed – comfortable, snug and cushioned – then running in them is like jumping on its mattress – firm, supportive and bouncy. The midsole is comprised entirely of Adidas’s signature Boost foam technology, which gives it bounce and an endless supply of light, fast energy. Training for a half marathon in these felt as if I was gliding on soft grass.
Price: R2 499.
Wear with: The urban-cool Supernova ¾ Tights (R799) and Short Sleeve Tee (R499), featuring ClimaCool venting for temperature control and superior ClimaLite fabric for moisture management.
Adidas.co.za
What: Puma Ignite.
Best for: Long-lasting performance.
Why: Ignite is Puma’s most responsive performance running shoe yet, claiming that if you put maximum energy in you’ll get maximum energy out. Over a few weeks, I noticed the immediate step-in comfort and spring to my step, thanks to the innovative ForEverFoam technology used for high-rebound cushioning and durability. If it’s good enough for The World’s Fastest Man, Usain Bolt, then it’s good enough for us!
Price: R1 699.
Wear with: The Ignite Short-Sleeved Tee (R549) and 3/4 Tights (R599) use Puma’s CoolCell materials to draw sweat away from the skin and jacquard mesh to improve air circulation when running.
Puma.com
What: New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Lite.
Best for: A smoother ride.
Why: (Reviewed by Wardah Hartley) New Balance claims that, with its 6mm midsole and a more aggressive toe spring, you can enjoy a smoother ride with this latest addition to the Fresh Foam family. At just under 180g, the shoe is incredibly light and, once on, it seems to become a part of your foot! The brand’s technical advancements and innovative materials have resulted in a flexible, lightweight and performance-focused trainer that offers enough cushioning and stability for high-mileage training.
Price: R1 500.
Wear with: New Balance’s Ice Graphic Tunic (R400) uses sweat-activated technology to help keep you cool and dry, and has reflective logos and a hidden path for your headphone cords. Pair with the polyester/Spandex Accelerate Printed Capri Pants (R550), which also have reflective logos and an internal back pocket for your valuables.
Newbalance.co.za
What: Puma Pulse XT.
Best for: High-intensity workouts, such as CrossFit or S.W.E.A.T.1000.
Why: Not only does this lightweight trainer have a sleek and sexy design (great if you’re not keen on the neon footwear trends), it’s ideal for high-intensity cross-training workouts, both indoors and outdoors, thanks to its responsive EverTrain Footbed technology that provides breathability, resilience and support for any workout.
Price: R1 199. (Available in-store from 1 May at selected retailers.)
Wear with: Puma’s Clash Top (R599) provides the correct support for your chest and has a nifty open-front pocket for storing belongings, so your hands are free to move. Pair with Puma’s Clash Long Tights (R799), both made with Puma’s dryCELL material to draw sweat away from the skin.
Puma.com
What: Reebok ZPump Fusion.
Best for: A shoe you can mould to your foot’s shape.
Why: The ZPump Fusion features a customisable air-filled cage that pumps up and wraps around the shape and contour of your foot for a custom, locked-in fit. Running shoes are typically developed in a rigid, factory-developed shape with up to 40 individual parts but the ZPump Fusion comprises just three key parts for freedom of movement. The ZPump design has edges and grooves that increase handling and control and offers great high-speed performance overall.
Price: R1 800.
Wear with: Reebok’s C Mesh Tee (R500) is made from lightweight PlayDry fabric to draw moisture away from the body for a cool, comfortable run. Pair with the urban-inspired One Series Running Shorts (R700) – which also come in black – with elastic at the waist for added comfort.
Reebok.co.za
What: Saucony Peregrine 5.
Best for: Trail runners who require confidence when taking on uneven ground.
Why: The comfortable and lightweight Peregrine 5 trail running shoe has all the features required to protect you as you zoom across mountain terrain. It’s light, flexible and provides optimal traction and balance underfoot. There’s a new rubberised toe tip, which enhances durability and protection and rock plates in the midfoot and forefoot for protection from rocks and thorns without rigidity.
Price: R1 850.
Wear with: Saucony’s reversible slim-fit Swift Long Sleeve top (R749), made of four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you warm and dry whatever the weather, and the Exo FlexShell Ultra jacket (R2 199), which is wind- and waterproof, with a runner-specific fit, high collar and hood, and reflective trim for added visibility in low light – genius. (Available in store from 1 May at selected retailers.)
Saucony.com
What: Puma Ignite PWRCool.
Best for: Keeping you cool in warm conditions.
Why: Puma Ignite PWRCool combines the superior cushioning of Puma Ignite foam (see previous), for step-in comfort and long-lasting performance, with the cooling thermo technology of PWRCool, developed to keep your feet extra cool when running in order to preserve energy. This shoe also features a ComfortTemp tongue liner that controls your body temperature by triggering a cooling mechanism that’s activated when it comes into contact with moisture.
Price: R1 799.
Wear with: PWRCool Tank W (R499) and Women’s PWRCool ¾ Tights (R649) features PWRCool all-over cooling print that activates with moisture to cool and reduce body temperature – genius.
Puma.com
The post Tried And Tested: 6 Of The Best New Running Shoes And Outfits appeared first on Marie Claire - South Africa.