The Running Shoe Guru

Kenenisa Bekela after 10k win at Pre Classic

2013-06-01T10:38:00.000+01:00

http://youtu.be/wGwMfa4TxFs

Saucony – Progrid Guide 6

2013-05-09T15:50:00.001+01:00

Saucony – Progrid Guide 6 - £99.99

Testers commented that this shoe felt very light given the amount of support it provides and weighing in at just 280g it is lighter than many competitors. The lightweight doesn’t mean it performs any less well than others, in fact the support is superb and complimented by the lower, 8mm heel height heel cushioning and new mid-foot support straps. This updated model feels racier too thanks to improved flexibility in the forefoot that allows you to push the pace as you would in a race shoe. It’s a shoe ideally suited to runners looking for a high mileage trainer with support that favour lighter more responsive shoes.

Adidas – Supernova Sequence 5

2013-05-08T15:50:00.000+01:00

Adidas – Supernova Sequence 5 - £90.00

As the brands best selling support shoe this model offers a very smooth ride courtesy of the large adiprene+ forefoot that testers found soaked up the miles without any problem. The support is excellent for mild to moderate over pronators and most importantly works without any intrusion into the arch, meaning subtle yet highly effective control. A nice feature is the ‘Continental’ rubber sections of the outsole that provide excellent traction and give added confidence to the wear particularly on usually slippy wet pavements.

Puma – FAAS 800s

2013-05-07T15:51:00.000+01:00

Puma – FAAS 800s - £90.00

With the absence of an obvious medial post this shoe works remarkably well for over pronators. Its the geometry of the one piece midsole that creates the support, being slightly higher on the medial side and beveled in the heel around the crash pad area to create a shoe that holds the foot firmly in place throughout the gait cycle. It’s a smooth riding construction that surprised our testers by its effectiveness. The upper is seam free and simple yet comfortable. It’s a shoe that performs very well despite is unassumingly simple look.

Brooks – Ghost 5

2013-05-06T12:49:00.000+01:00

Brooks – Ghost 5 - £100.00

This shoe has a fit and feel that despite the three figures price tag makes it great value. A tester said, “from pulling it one it holds the foot superbly, and feels so luxurious when I’m wearing it, its like I’m floating down the road!” The midsole construction, with grooves running its entire length means the shoe rolls through the gait cycle in a smooth natural feeling motion. Upper construction is typical of the brand and provides an exception fit.

Scott – eRide Trainer2

2013-05-05T12:49:00.000+01:00

Scott – eRide Trainer2 - £90.00

This second generation high mileage training shoe sees changes to the upper and outsole whilst the midsole retains the features that testers have previously enjoyed. Again our test runners liked the transition from heel to forefoot when running and they did also report that the eRide system encouraged the foot to land a little more towards the midfoot. The upper uses a textured mesh that is breathable and supportive. Traction is excellent and runners said they felt confident in the wet in the shoe thanks to the injected TPU forefoot section of the outsole

Mizuno – Wave Rider 16

2013-05-04T12:48:00.000+01:00

Mizuno – Wave Rider 16 - £100.00

As the brands most iconic model this years version sees it get a reduction in weight of around 10%, down to just 280g. This shoe has always had a smooth riding feel about it and the weight reduction only adds to this, which together with a new ‘SmoothRide’ midsole creates a stable neutral shoe ideal for high mileage training. Some off our heavier test runners also like to use this shoe as a racing shoe, such is its responsiveness.

New Balance – M1080v3

2013-05-03T12:47:00.000+01:00

New Balance – M1080v3 - £99.99

Like many other brands lowering the heel height of their shoes, New Balance has joined the party with this third generation premium cushioned model. Like many other shoes the lower ride works very well giving a smooth efficient feel to the shoe. The soft blown rubber outsole in the forefoot compliments the feel of the shoe perfectly and with deep flex grooves provides a responsive feel. The seam free upper provided a fit that all testers praised, feeling soft and luxurious.

Bolton 10k - 2013

2013-05-02T15:27:00.002+01:00

Saucony Progrid Ride 5

2013-05-02T12:46:00.000+01:00

Saucony Progrid Ride 5 - £95.00

The 8mm heel height difference in this shoe is a little lower than the usual of 12mm in most brands but testers commented on the fit and ride of the shoe rather than noticing any great difference. The shoes really do give a great ride, encouraging an ever so slightly more midfoot strike as a result of the reduction in heel height. The upper fit, like many of the brands shoes this season is superb, with all testers making positive comments about construction, support and comfort. The shoe is a little lighter than previously at just 278g and along with effective forefoot grooves feels responsive and at home whatever speed you choose to run at.

Alan Mead - Belgrave Harriers

2013-05-02T11:24:00.003+01:00

www.runnerslife.co.uk/support-team/coaching/road-relays-alan-mead

Nike – Air Pegasus+ 29

2013-05-01T12:45:00.000+01:00

Nike – Air Pegasus+ 29 - £85.00

As an undeniable classic in the running world, this version of the brands best selling shoe is its 29^th, which should tell you something about its popularity. The upper features a knitted construction which testers found snug, cosseting and easily adaptable to the foots movements. Cushioning comes by way of ‘zoom air’ a slim air pocket in the midsole that absorbs shock well and retains good levels of shock absorbency throughout the shoes life. As usual the outsole features the famous ‘waffle’ pattern that is probably the most versatile outsole design on the market.

Manchester Marathon 2013

2013-04-28T12:13:00.001+01:00

Brooks - Trance 12

2013-04-27T16:00:00.000+01:00

Brooks - Trance 12 - £120.00

As the brands range topping support shoe its feature packed and feels great. Whilst providing highly effective support for over pronators its more the luxurious cushioning that you are aware of while running in the shoe. Testers said “It feels great, it just soaks up the miles, supports superbly and leaves my feet feeling fresh even after a 20 miler!” The upper uses high quality materials and features great attention to detail for a fantastic fit.

Mo Farah and Galen Rupp training video

2013-04-27T12:34:00.001+01:00

http://video-embed.oregonlive.com/services/player/bcpid1949055967001?bctid=2321989701001&bckey=AQ~~,AAAAPLpuSqE~,a1DdoZJH5WQo4iWaJj1w_CktvJfhQVVG

Brooks – Beast

2013-04-26T15:58:00.000+01:00

Brooks – Beast - £110.00

In terms of control for over pronators you can’t get much more than this! It really is a beast of a shoe providing support by the bucket load that is capable of resisting pronation from even the most excessive runner. From the point of initial impact on the lateral side of the shoe through to the medial arch the shoe is constructed of five different levels of cushioning and support which means pronation is smoothed out as the foot rolls forward. The shoe is remarkably flexible for one so supportive and testers felt happy in the shoe even at faster paces. The upper uses premium fabrics, fits well and feels as supportive as you’d expect from a shoe in this category.

Brooks – Adrenaline GTS13

2013-04-25T15:57:00.000+01:00

Brooks – Adrenaline GTS13 - £100.00

The build quality of this shoe, like all of the brands range really stands out from competitor models of similar or even much higher prices. Small details such as the elasticated lace holes to ensure a snug, even fit and the small loop on the tongue that holds it in place contribute to a superb fit. The medial post to prevent over pronation is made up of two different densities of material to ensure a smooth uninstrusive correction of the foot’s inward roll. Testers always like this shoe and again this season was no exception!

Asics – Gel Kayano 19

2013-04-24T15:56:00.000+01:00

Asics – Gel Kayano 19 - £140.00

As you would expect of a shoe of this price, the highest priced we tried, it has a very luxurious fit and feel to it. The soft mesh and suede like upper along with individually placed lace loops provide a fit the hugs and moves with the foot perfectly. With an abundance of the brand’s famous Gel cushioning strategically placed throughout the length of the shoes midsole, cushioning is great and feels like it will last and last. It terms of pronation control, its not the most supportive we tried, being better suited to mild over pronators, but it runs smoothly and all testers enjoyed the performance, fit and feel of this premium model.

Mizuno – Inspire 9

2013-04-23T15:54:00.000+01:00

Mizuno – Inspire 9 - £100.00

This popular support shoe dips under the 300g-weight barrier this season to create a very responsive yet supportive shoe. The ‘double-fan wave’ technology works well to absorb shock and provide good stability for over pronators. Improvements in the upper construction create a snug yet extremely comfortable fit. In all a great choice for those needing support but wanting a light, flexible shoe that doesn’t feel out of place on faster runs.

Nike – Lunar Eclipse+ 3

2013-04-22T15:54:00.000+01:00

Nike – Lunar Eclipse+ 3 - £100.00

Testers that had previously worn this shoe found this update to be an improvement of previous models both in support and fit. The heel counter is a little stiffer, which in conjunction with the dynamic support provides excellent control for over pronators. The knitted upper now uses the flywire asymmetrical lacing system to cradle and support the foot giving a supportive yet comfortable fit.

New Balance – 860v3

2013-04-21T15:52:00.000+01:00

New Balance – 860v3 - £90.00

This model is the brands most popular shoe for over pronators providing a good mix of cushioning and support. This season the crash pad area has been increased to allow a softer action, while the medial post has been increase slightly to provide a little more support. The combination works well and feels good. In their standard width the shoes feel snug and very comfortable with the almost stretch like upper wrapping over the foot for a close comfortable fit.

Virgin London Marathon 2013

2013-04-20T12:57:00.001+01:00

Nike – Lunar Flyknit Lunar1+

2013-04-19T16:05:00.002+01:00

Nike – Lunar Flyknit Lunar1+ - £130.00 (240g Men’s UK9)

Strictly speaking this is the brands lightweight trainer as there is also a ‘Flyknit racer’ available but we’ve included it here as its so light and has a very ‘racer-like’ feel about it. The upper is knitted from a single yarn and feels great immediately. This feeling can be customized by ‘steaming’ it, creating the most close fitting, yet comfortable fit any off our testers had ever experienced. The shoe really does become an extension of the foot providing unparalleled levels of response and comfort. It’s an expensive shoe, but every tester was amazed by its fit and feel.

Adidas – Adizero Hagio 2

2013-04-19T16:04:00.003+01:00

Adidas – Adizero Hagio 2 - £75.00 (180g Men’s UK8.5)

This racer is a real speed demon, testers saying ‘It actually feels lighter than it is, it’s like you have nothing on your feet!’ That pays testament to its minimalist, seamless upper and slim fitting construction. Its very responsive, thanks to the ‘torsion’ system running through the midfoot and certainly best suited to mid to forefoot striking fast athletes. It is a no nonsense performance racer you are seeking this is certainly one for consideration.

Marathon Shoes - the best racing shoes for marathon runners - Virgin London Marathon 2013

2013-04-19T12:24:00.003+01:00

RACING SHOES - 2013

Brooks – T7 Racer - £65.00 (200g Men’s UK9.5)

Ultra light and ultra responsive, our testers liked the ‘feel of the road’ that the low profile and very flexible midsole forefoot offered. The off centre lacing and closely knitted mesh upper allows the shoe to wrap around and really hug the foot. Testers said its fit was akin to a sock.

Brooks – Racer ST5 - £75.00 (278g Men’s UK9.5)

Of the two racer shoes from the brand this model offers a little more support and it perhaps has a wider appeal in that it feels light enough for fast 5k’s but also supportive enough to offer protection for a marathon. Our testers found it provided a security often only found in heavier training shoes. The soft fabric mesh upper remains breathable and flexible through the longest of runs.

More Mile – London Pro-Strike - £40.00 (305g Men’s UK10)

The least expensive shoe we tried and heaviest, but that said, it still feels light on the foot and it offers high levels of cushioning for the neutral runner. It’s perhaps more of a lightweight trainer than an out and out racing shoe, so in that respect it represents good value. The fit is relatively slim and snug and we’d advise perhaps going a half a size larger than most other brands. It has a responsive feel and testers felt able to push the pace without the shoe feeling bulky. It’s a good value choice for those wanting a light training shoe or perhaps heavier runners looking for something a little lighter than usual whilst still offering some protection from impact.

Anatom – N1 Natural Motion - £60.00 (180g Men’s UK9)

A new brand to the running market and another ‘natural running’ shoe! This model, although offering the benefits of the barefoot experience offers surprising amounts of cushioning in key areas – including the heel should you fall into a heel striking gait as apposed to forefoot landing. The fit is snug, sock like and closer fitting around the toes than many shoes of this type, feeling more like traditional running styles, something that all our testers preferred to many ‘barefoot’ models. A good value option for light efficient runners wanting to try a minimalist shoe with reasonable cushioning.

New Balance – MRC5000 - £89.99 (93g Men’s UK9) LIGHTEST ON TEST

Many ultra light shoes offer very little in terms of cushioning and support, being minimalist and often sock like. This model bucks the trend in that it offers reasonable cushioning and a supportive fit in a sub 100g offering. The shoe belies its lightweight, feeling a lot more substantial and capable of longer distances. Testers loved ultra responsive feedback, excellent traction and close fitting seamless upper.

New Balance – MR1400 - £79.99 (210g Men’s UK9.5)

Designed as a racing model based around the brands best selling training shoe this model immediately feels great, probably in most part thanks to its soft seamless upper. It’s a relatively slim fitting shoe, but that also gives it a performance feel – very much like a track spike. The cushioning is perfect for a range of distances and could even handle a marathon. Outsole traction is excellent, even of wet surfaces.

Puma – FAAS 300v2 - £60.00 (235g Men’s UK10)GREAT VALUE

This shoe may be part of the brands ‘FAAS’ but it heralds back to old school racing shoe designs and our testers loved it! “It feels like racing shoes of old and that’s a good thing, nothing fancy, just light and fast!” testers said. It’s a simply design, but its responsive, fits well and offers good traction.

Nike – Lunar Flyknit Lunar1+ - £130.00 (240g Men’s UK9)

Adidas – Adizero Mana 7 - £75.00 (190g Ladies UK5.5)

Testers were particularly impressed with the traction this shoe provided, as many tried it on a 5K course with mixed surfaces of tarmac and gravel. The combination of ‘sticky rubber’ and plastic-like elements of the forefoot’s outsole handled everything brilliantly. The shoe is responsive with good cushioning and while the small medial post isn’t going to control over pronation it does make an otherwise flimsy shoe pretty stable.

Adidas – Adizero Hagio 2 - £75.00 (180g Men’s UK8.5)

Scott – T2C Evo - £115.00 (250g Men’s UK9.5)

This is certainly a very capable long distance racer. The cushioning is superb and provides a great blend of shock absorption and feedback from the road. The midsoles ‘rocker’ shape encourages a faster pace, rolling the foot forward on impact. The outsole is a combination of several materials and configurations, which together provided great traction on any surface we encountered. It’s a great racing shoe to try if you are looking for something outside of the mainstream brands.

Scott – eRide AF Trainer - £115.00 (255g Men’s UK9.5)

Very similar to its ‘out and out racing’ brother, this model adds a little extra cushioning without adding very much at all in the way of weight. The upper is cosmetically different to the T2C as is the outsole, but in way of performance it’s the same forward rolling feel and responsive toe off that impressed our testers. It’s a great lightweight shoe for heavier runners or those seeking great cushioning for longer distances.

Mizuno – Wave Ronin 5 - £84.99 (210g Men’s UK9)

Many brands are quick to replace racing shoe models but this shoe continues and its many fans will be happy to see it retains all the features that have kept it so popular. The Wave midsole provides great cushioning and stability without adding bulk or weight to the shoe, making it as happy at short as at long distances. The upper mesh is very soft and conforms to the foots contour for a great fit while outsole traction is superb.

Saucony – Fastwitch 6 - £80.00 (220g Men’s UK9.5)GREAT ALLROUNDER

This popular model is one of the few lightweight shoes that features a medial support that actually provides control rather than just making an otherwise flimsy shoe stiffer! Ok, it’s not a shoe for severe over pronators, but for those that require a little support and want a lighter shoe for race day it fits the bill perfectly. The upper is now lighter than previous models and hugs the foot well with a soft seamless construction. Cushioning is adequate for anything including the marathon distance and many testers found themselves wearing the shoe as a daily trainer! Light, responsive and great cushioning, it’s the perfect lightweight all-rounder!

Saucony – Type A5 - £85.00 (180g Men’s UK9.5)

The brands lightest shoe is even lighter this season thanks to a new upper construction. It’s still a great, close fit, very much like that of a track spike and traction is similar thanks to the outsole construction. Cushioning is low profile but very flexible and responsive. Probably best suited for distances up to half marathon unless you’re the lightest and most efficient in the pack.

Under Armour – Charge RC 2 - £110.00 (255g Men’s Uk9.5)

Another light weight trainer rather than out and out racer, this model provides enough support that makes it great for mild to moderate over pronators. The upper is constructed in two sections to provide a great fit that moves with your foot. It’s an unusual construction but works well and feels great once you get used to the close stretch fit of the forefoot. The shoe is responsive given the amount of cushioning and handles longer distances in its stride.

*Weights quoted are actually weights of the shoes we tried in the UK size shown.

All models available in both men’s and ladies sizes with some models in gender specific fit, check websites for more details.

WEB

Adidas.co.uk/running

Scott-Sports.com

Puma.com/running

Nike.com

Brooksrunning.co.uk

Mizuno.co.uk

En.Saucony.co.uk

Newbalance.co.uk

Underarmour.com

Moremile.co.uk

Anatomfootwear.co.uk