A GOOD set of running shoes are essential for running, even if you’re only just starting out your jogging journey with couch to 5k.
Unlike a normal pair of trainers, running shoes have been designed with pounding the pavement in mind, and offer your body the support it needs to help avoid injuries.
Most running shoes will look like a normal sports shoe, but with a thicker sole.
This is designed to be able to absorb and take the brunt of the impact when your foot strikes the ground.
Some shoes even claim to give you an extra spring to propel you forward too.
Before buying your first set of running shoes, it’s a good idea to get your running gait assessed by a specialist (most shops offer this as a service where you can go and test running shoes on a treadmill).
If your knee rolls in too much (pronate) or not enough (overpronates), you’ll be advised to get a shoe with the relevant support, as this can help prevent injuries down the road.
Even if you’ve already got a pair of running trainers, it might be time to replace them.
Most shoes only last between 300-500 miles (depending on how heavy you land when running), so it’s worth bearing this in mind if you’ve been doing a lot of training and have a big race coming up.
Ultimately, the best running shoe for you is down to personal preference.
If unsure what to look out for though, the below is a good place to start.
The Ultraboost from Adidas are a great pair of running shoes that combine comfort with a spring in their step.
The knitted uppers make it feel like you’re just wearing a sock, and the woven fabric helps to get air to your feet.
The sole may look like it is made from little polystyrene balls, but it manages to provide ample support regardless of the distance run.
Adidas also claims that this latest model gives you 20 per cent more propulsion than the previous iteration.
Developed as part of Nike’s ‘Breaking 2’ attempt (where an elite runner tried to complete a marathon in sub-2 hours), the Zoom Pegasus Turbo is built for going places, fast.
Unlike the knitted Adidas offering above, the Zoom Pegasus Turbo’s upper is made from an extremely lightweight synthetic material, but its fit is both secure and supportive.
Although the extended heel might look a bit odd, it is designed to help with the transition of movement from your heel landing to your toe taking off again.
And, if it’s used by some of the fastest athletes on the planet, the Zoom Pegasus Turbo must be doing something right.
If taking on a long-distance event such as a half or full marathon, you’re going to want a running shoe that offers comfort and support mile after mile. Enter Saucony’s Triumph.
The fourth version of American brand’s Triumph model is a little heavier than the others featured so far, but only an elite runner would be able to notice the difference.
What you’re left with is an upper that fits like a glove, and a sole that cushions every stride, even deep into a race.
The American manufacturer Brooks is well renowned in running circles for creating solid running shoes that don’t have to rely on flashy marketing gimmicks like some of the other brands previously mentioned.
The Glycerin is its flagship shoe, and the brand is now on its 16th iteration.
New for this release is a redesigned mesh upper that boosts the shoe’s breathability and flexibility, while the midsole has also been upgraded to improve cushioning and transition.
The resulting shoe is a firm favourite of many a club and amateur runner, and it could soon be yours too.
It’s fair to say that if you’re willing to splash more than £200 on a pair of running shoes, you’re going to want something pretty special. The Metarun from Asics is that shoe.
Designed for long distance road running, the Metarun uses the Japanese company’s specially designed foam (which it claims is 55% lighter than the industry standard) in its midsole to offer you a springy ride without the bulk usually associated with it.
Other highlights include a gel cushioning system in the heel and toes, and the same level of support on every stride of your run.
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