After months of speculation, the TCS London Marathon has officially confirmed that its 2027 event will take place across two days for the first time in the race's history.

Dubbed the London Marathon Double, the event will be held on Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027, with organisers expecting a record-breaking 100,000 runners to cross the finish line over the weekend.

The move comes after a world-record-breaking race in 2026, and demand for places reached unprecedented levels.

More than 1.33 million people entered the ballot for 2027, smashing the previous world record for marathon applications and putting enormous pressure on organisers to find ways of accommodating more runners.

A one-off event designed to let more people run

London Marathon Events describes the Double as a "once-in-a-generation" reimagining of the event rather than a permanent change.

The current plan is for the race to return to its traditional one-day format in 2028.

Both days will feature the full 26.2-mile course, with runners assigned either Saturday or Sunday. Participants will only be able to run once during the weekend.

Elite women, female wheelchair athletes and women's championship runners will compete on one day, while the men's elite and championship races will take place on the other.

The expansion could have a huge impact beyond participation numbers.

Organisers believe the event could raise more than £150 million for charity and generate around £400 million in economic and social benefits for the UK.

For runners, though, the biggest takeaway is simply more places.

While securing a London Marathon spot is still likely to be highly competitive, the Double means that tens of thousands more people will have the chance to experience one of the world's most iconic races.

And if the 2027 experiment proves successful, don't be surprised if calls for a permanent two-day London Marathon grow even louder.

[via London Marathon Official website]

I was lucky enough to be in Chamonix last year for the UTMB, which also coincided with the launch of Hoka's then brand-new trail running shoes, the Rocket X Trail.

The trainers made a lasting impression on me, which is why I ended up using them afterwards. The combination of speed and cushioning makes the Rocket X Trail an excellent option for my local trails, which are pretty flat and less technical.

This is not to say Hoka's speedy trail runners are for training only. If anything, the Rocket X Trail is best for tempo training and racing. And it's likely people will use them for their purpose, given the hefty price tag.

Should you get one? Let's find out.

Hoka Rocket X Trail review

Price and availability

The Hoka Rocket X Trail was launched in August 2025 and is available to buy now at Hoka UK, Hoka US and Hoka EU for the recommended retail price of £185 / $250 / €225 (~AU$367).

That puts it in direct competition with other high-end trail racers, including the Nike Ultrafly, Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra and Hoka's own Tecton X 3.

This isn't a shoe aimed at casual runners or weekend dog walkers. It's designed for athletes chasing personal bests in trail races, ultras and fast-paced adventures.

Specifications

• Weight: 297g / 10.5lb (men's UK11 / US11.5D)
• Drop: 6mm
• Lugs: 3mm
• Midsole: A-TPU Superfoam
• Plate: H-shaped parallel carbon-fibre plate
• Outsole: Lightweight zonal rubber (not Vibram Megagrip)
• Best for: Trail racing, gravel roads, runnable terrain

Design and fit

While most trail racers still borrow heavily from mountain shoes, Hoka has taken the opposite approach here. The Rocket X Trail feels much closer to a road super shoe adapted for dirt roads, gravel paths, and fast-flowing trails.

At just 297g / 10.5lb (men's UK11 / US11.5D), it's impressively lightweight for an off-road shoe. The silhouette is sleek and aggressive, with a pronounced rocker that immediately hints at its racing intentions.

Hoka pairs an A-TPU Superfoam midsole with an H-shaped carbon-fibre plate, creating a platform designed to maximise energy return while keeping weight to a minimum.

The lightweight engineered mesh follows the same philosophy, keeping things airy and breathable, while the stretch vamp is designed to accommodate foot splay as your feet expand.

The tongue is deliberately minimal, helping shave unnecessary grams without compromising comfort. Combined with the secure midfoot lockdown, the Rocket X Trail feels race-ready from the moment you lace it up.

Underfoot, Hoka has opted for a lightweight zonal rubber outsole with shallow 3mm lugs. It's optimised for the sort of surfaces where runners can really open up the throttle: gravel roads, hard-packed trails and smooth singletrack.

Fit is true to size, and I found there was enough room in the toe box to stay comfortable on longer runs without sacrificing the precise feel you'd want in a racing shoe.

The overall package feels more streamlined and performance-focused than the Speedgoat or Mafate lines, which is exactly what I'd expect from a shoe carrying the Rocket X name.

Performance

Within the first few miles in Chamonix, it became obvious that Hoka wasn't trying to build a do-it-all trail shoe. If your local trails consist of gravel roads, compact dirt paths and flowing singletrack, the Rocket X Trail feels right at home.

The combination of the A-TPU Superfoam midsole and H-shaped carbon-fibre plate delivers a level of responsiveness that's rare in trail running, with every ride feeling energetic. At the same time, the aggressive rocker helps maintain momentum, particularly when running at tempo pace or pushing hard during races.

In many ways, the experience is closer to wearing a road super shoe than a traditional trail runner. The Rocket X Trail encourages you to pick up the pace and rewards efficient running, and on long stretches of gravel and hard-packed trail, I often found myself running faster than intended simply because the shoe made it feel effortless.

The lightweight zonal rubber outsole provides plenty of traction on dry dirt, gravel and compact trails, while also coping just about well enough in damp conditions.

The shallow 3mm lugs strike a sensible balance between grip and efficiency, helping keep weight down without leaving you feeling under-equipped.

The Rocket X Trail becomes less convincing as the terrain becomes more technical, such as rocky descents, muddy sections and uneven ground.

What impressed me most was how well the Rocket X Trail maintained its performance over longer distances. Lightweight race shoes can often feel brilliant for an hour, but Hoka has managed to balance speed and comfort remarkably well.

Verdict

With the Rocket X Trail, Hoka has created a specialist racer for runners who prioritise speed on runnable terrain. Gravel roads, buff singletrack and fast trail races are where this shoe truly shines.

The combination of the lightweight construction, energetic A-TPU Superfoam midsole and carbon-fibre plate creates a ride that feels remarkably efficient.

Few trail shoes encourage pace quite as enthusiastically as the Rocket X Trail, and fewer still manage to do so while remaining comfortable over longer distances.

If you're targeting a trail marathon, a gravel race, or any event where maintaining speed matters more than navigating rocky mountain passes, the Rocket X Trail is a compelling option, as it captures the magic of a road super shoe while delivering enough grip and protection for fast off-road adventures.

Also consider

If the Rocket X Trail feels a little too specialised, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is the safer bet. Hoka's trail-running workhorse offers better value, more grip and greater versatility across a wider range of terrain. It lacks the explosive propulsion of the Rocket X Trail but makes up for it with comfort, durability and everyday usability.

The Rocket X Trail thrives on fast, runnable terrain, but I'd reach for the Brooks Cascadia 19 when the trails become more technical. Brooks' latest mountain-ready shoe offers a more stable platform, deeper traction and superior control on rocky, uneven ground. It's heavier and less lively, but far more reassuring when the terrain gets challenging.

Altra has teamed up with Japanese outdoor fashion label and wander to create a special-edition version of the Experience Wild 3+, bringing a more lifestyle-focused look to one of the brand's newest trail running shoes.

The collaboration marks the first time the Experience Wild 3+ has received the co-branded treatment.

Available in two earthy colourways inspired by natural landscapes, the shoe combines Altra's trail-running credentials with and wander's signature approach to outdoor design.

If you're unfamiliar with and wander, the Tokyo-based brand has built a reputation for blending technical outdoor performance with fashion-led styling.

Its collaborations often sit comfortably in both mountain environments and on city streets, making the Experience Wild 3+ a logical choice for the partnership.

Same trail-ready platform underneath

Unlike some collaboration models that introduce new materials or performance tweaks, the Altra x and wander Experience Wild 3+ collab appears to retain the same trail-running platform as the standard shoe.

That's not necessarily a bad thing, as the Experience Wild 3+ is already one of Altra's most approachable trail runners.

Under the redesigned upper sits the same reliable trainer that launched earlier this year as part of Altra's Experience 3 collection.

The shoe features a 4mm drop, Altra's roomy FootShape toe box and a Vibram Megagrip outsole with Traction Lug technology for improved grip on mixed terrain.

It also uses the brand's EGO P35 midsole foam, designed to provide a lightweight, efficient ride without sacrificing comfort.

The two launch colourways are named Carbon and Humus, drawing inspiration from weathered stone, forest floors and rust-coloured earth.

Matching Trail Gaiters in Sand Camo and Navy Camo are also available if that's something you're interested in.

The collaboration is available now through Altra and and wander (the and wonder store is Japanese and lists the shoes in yen and with Japanese sizing) stores worldwide.

Pricing is set at €170 / £145 (~$191 / AU$273).

ASICS has unveiled the Fuji Lite 7, the latest version of its lightweight trail running shoe, and while the update isn't a complete overhaul, it brings a handful of meaningful improvements for runners who want to move quickly across mixed terrain.

Sitting between the protective Gel Trabuco range and the race-focused Metafuji Trail, the Fuji Lite series has long been one of ASICS' most versatile off-road options.

The seventh-generation model builds on that formula with a new engineered woven upper, a lighter overall weight and a fit system designed to keep feet locked down when the trail gets technical.

The engineered mesh used on the Fuji Lite 6 was replaced by a woven construction that gives the shoe a more premium appearance while promising improved durability on the trail.

The material is paired with ASICS' Tongue Wing design, which wraps more securely around the midfoot and helps reduce unwanted tongue movement during longer runs.

Lighter, faster and ready for the trails

The Fuji Lite 7 retains the FF Blast Plus midsole found in its predecessor (launched in 2021 with the Gel-Nimbus 24), providing a balance of cushioning and responsiveness without added bulk.

In fact, the new model tips the scales at a claimed 241g, making it around 11g lighter than the Fuji Lite 6.

The stack height remains unchanged at 32mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot, delivering a 4mm drop that should appeal to runners looking for a more natural trail-running feel.

The outsole also returns largely unchanged, featuring ASICSGrip rubber and 4mm lugs.

Looking at the tread pattern, the design appears geared towards versatility rather than outright aggression, making the Fuji Lite 7 a strong option for everything from forest paths and gravel tracks to moderately technical mountain trails.

Taking cues from ASICS' faster trail shoes

Although ASICS isn't positioning the Fuji Lite 7 as a race shoe, there are clear influences from the brand's more performance-oriented models.

The company is also highlighting the shoe's sustainability credentials. According to ASICS, the Fuji Lite 7 has a carbon footprint of 11.8kg CO₂e per pair, which it says is 18% lower than the industry average for running shoes.

The Fuji Lite 7 is available now at ASICS UK and ASICS US for £125 / $140 (~€125 / AU$198) in a range of colourways, including a striking white-and-coral option that gives the lightweight trail runner one of its most eye-catching looks to date.

HOKA has unveiled a new member of its best-selling Clifton family, and it looks like the brand is setting its sights on one of running's hottest categories.

The Clifton PRO launches on 9 July and takes the familiar Clifton formula in a noticeably more performance-focused direction.

The new running shoes seem to be in direct competition with ASICS' Novablast series, which has been incredibly popular with runners.

While previous versions of the Clifton have been known for their comfortable, dependable ride, HOKA says the Clifton PRO is designed for runners seeking "performance outcomes" and "competitive advantage" in daily training.

The biggest change is the new PROGLIDE+ system, which combines supercritical SCF foam with a more aggressive MetaRocker geometry.

According to the company, the setup is designed to create smoother transitions, greater efficiency and a more propulsive ride than previous Clifton models.

A new role for the Clifton

For years, the Clifton has been HOKA's go-to daily trainer, offering a highly cushioned and forgiving ride for runners of all abilities.

The arrival of the Clifton PRO suggests the brand is now splitting the franchise into distinct categories.

The standard Clifton remains the everyday comfort trainer in the range, while the new Clifton PRO looks set to become the faster daily trainer for runners who want a little more energy return and efficiency on their easy, steady runs.

Above that sits the Mach as HOKA's lightweight tempo option, while the Cielo range continues to serve runners looking for race-day speed.

HOKA enters the premium trainer race

The shoe features a substantial 42mm heel stack, an 8mm drop and weighs 296g in a men's US size 10.

HOKA has also introduced a new podular outsole design alongside Durabrasion rubber coverage, which the company says contributes to a smoother ride.

The Clifton PRO sits well above the standard Clifton and enters the increasingly competitive premium daily trainer segment.

This category has exploded in popularity thanks to shoes that blend comfort, cushioning and speed into a single package.

HOKA describes the Clifton PRO as its "most dynamic Clifton to date", adding that the shoe is designed to help runners maintain a steadier cadence while delivering a fluid rolling sensation underfoot.

The Clifton PRO will be available from 9 July 2026 at Hoka for the recommended price of £150 / $165 / €170 (AU$233).

Ciele Athletics has unveiled a new capsule collection, a five-piece range that takes a slightly different approach to running apparel.

The Paradis range celebrates the places, experiences and daydreams that surround running.

According to Ciele, Paradis draws inspiration from everything from alpine switchbacks and coastal loops to track sessions and post-run meeting spots.

The visual identity of the apparel options is based on maps, patterns, and illustrated landscapes, combining shades of blue, green and cream across technical caps, bucket hats, shorts and a graphic T-shirt.

Ciele even came up with a fictional town, Paradis, with the maps showcasing the town and its surroundings in more detail.

The artwork appears throughout the range, giving the capsule a more lifestyle-oriented feel while retaining the performance features Ciele is known for.

A map of nowhere

The range includes three of Ciele's signature headwear styles: the TRLBucket Comp, TRLCap SC MRPH EQ and GOCap MRPH EQ.

As expected from the Canadian brand best known for its headwear, the hats remain lightweight, breathable, and packable, but feature unique Paradis graphics that set them apart from the company's regular collections.

Alongside the headwear is the ATShort 4", a run short designed for warm-weather adventures.

Ciele says the shorts use a quick-drying fabric that is resistant to chlorine and salt water, making them suitable for runs that finish with a dip in a lake, river or the sea.

A self-draining storage pocket is also included for carrying small essentials.

Finally, the NSPTShirt features the capsule's map artwork and is made from a Sorino HC cotton-and-hemp blend.

According to Ciele, the fabric offers moisture management, odour control and breathability without relying on synthetic fibres.

Paradis is available now at Ciele and selected retailers worldwide, with prices from $70 (~£52 / €60 / AU$98).

The collection joins the brand's growing line-up of apparel-focused releases, following the more performance-driven Icon and Elite collections launched earlier this year.

If you're wondering how your running pace compares to the average Garmin watch user, the answer is probably "slower than you think".

According to Garmin's latest running trends report, the average pace recorded by male Garmin users is 5:49 min/km (9:22 min/mile), while women average 6:32 min/km (10:31 min/mile).

Looking at age groups, runners aged 20–29 are the quickest at 5:45 min/km (9:15 min/mile) on average, while those aged 70 and over still manage a respectable 6:45 min/km (10:52 min/mile).

The findings come from Garmin's analysis of running watch data collected throughout 2025 and offer an intriguing snapshot of what running looks like among the brand's users worldwide.

Not just a young person's game

One of the most surprising findings is that older runners tend to go further and spend more time on each run than their younger counterparts.

The average Garmin user covers 7.76 km (~4.82 miles) per run, but runners aged 50–59 top the table at 8.2 km (~5.10 miles) per activity. By comparison, those aged 20–29 average 7.4 km (~4.60 miles).

That trend becomes even clearer when looking at time spent running.

Garmin users spend an average of 46.3 minutes per run, but runners in their 50s and 60s regularly exceed 50 minutes per outing.

Those aged 60–69 spend an average of 50.8 minutes running, compared to 42.6 minutes for the youngest age group.

In other words, younger runners may be faster, but older runners appear to stay out longer.

Finding the sweet spot

Garmin's data also reveals that most runners aren't clocking marathon-level mileage every week.

Almost 40% of users run between 9 km and 16 km per week on average, making it the most common training volume by some distance, with a further 28% covering between 17 km and 32 km per week.

At the other end of the scale, only 7% of Garmin users average between 33 km (~20.5 miles) and 48 km (~29.8 miles) each week, while just 3% run more than 49 km (~30.4 miles) weekly.

The report also found that people are running more than before.

Indoor running activities increased by 12.6% per capita in 2025 compared to 2024, while outdoor runs rose by 3.2%.

The largest increase came from runners aged 30–39, whose average number of activities grew by more than 5% year on year.

Perhaps the most compelling statistic relates to heart health. Garmin found that non-runners had an average resting heart rate of 62 bpm.

Among people running 0–8km per week, that figure dropped to 59 bpm, with a steady decline as weekly mileage increased.

Users running more than 49 km (~30.45 miles) per week recorded an average resting heart rate of 55 bpm.

It's not exactly groundbreaking news that runners tend to have lower resting heart rates, but Garmin's data puts some real-world numbers behind the relationship.

More importantly, it shows that most Garmin users aren't elite athletes.

They're ordinary runners logging modest weekly mileage, yet still seeing measurable differences in fitness and cardiovascular health.

You can read the full Garmin Trends in Running 2026 report here.

ASICS has announced the Novablast 6, the latest version of its much-loved daily running shoe.

The Novablast line has always been about bounce, comfort, and that slightly (?) exaggerated trampoline-like ride that makes easy miles feel a little less ploddy.

For the sixth version, ASICS has doubled down on that formula by adding FF Turbo Squared foam to the forefoot trampoline pod for the first time.

That’s the same foam technology previously used in the Megablast and Sonicblast series, and its arrival here suggests ASICS wants the Novablast 6 to feel livelier when runners pick up the pace, without turning it into a full-blown race shoe.

A bounce with borrowed speed

The new forefoot trampoline pod works alongside FF Blast Max cushioning to keep the ride soft, comfortable, and stable, the brand says.

ASICS has also tweaked the shoe’s geometry and kept the distinctive sculpted midsole design, which has become one of the Novablast’s most recognisable features.

The outsole has been updated, too, with ASICSGrip rubber now used in the forefoot to improve traction and help create a more efficient toe-off.

The engineered mesh upper has been refined for better breathability and a more adaptive fit, which should make the shoe more comfortable across longer weekly mileage.

A bigger update than expected

The Novablast 5 launched in late 2024, so the arrival of the Novablast 6 in July 2026 means ASICS has taken a little longer between generations this time around.

Evidently, the company has given itself more time to make meaningful changes rather than pushing out another annual update for its own sake – an approach I can stand behind.

Paul Lang, Senior Manager of Global Product, Performance Running Footwear at ASICS, says the brand wanted to “elevate” the energetic, trampoline-like feel that defines the series, adding that the FF Turbo Squared trampoline pod and refined geometry have helped create a shoe that feels “even more responsive, dynamic and fun to run in.”

ASICS athlete Drew Hunter also says the new model “levels up the bounce and energy,” especially when picking up the pace.

The ASICS Novablast 6 will be available globally from 1 July 2026, priced at €160.

UK pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but given the Novablast 5 currently sells for £135 in the UK and €150 in Europe, a £145 UK price feels likely.

US and AU pricing is also TBC.

Head over to ASICS to find out more.

Salomon has teamed up with Copenhagen cycling label Pas Normal Studios for a new SS26 collaboration, and it looks like the brands are trying to carve out an entirely new category somewhere between road running, trail running and gravel cycling.

Launching today, the limited-edition collection combines Pas Normal Studios’ minimalist cycling aesthetic with Salomon’s performance outdoor expertise.

The standout product is the new GRVL Concept trail running shoe, or more like an experimental gravel running super shoe.

According to the brands, the model uses a PEBA-based supercritical foam midsole paired with dual full-length carbon blades to deliver the sort of energy return typically associated with elite road racing shoes.

The outsole uses shallow 1.5mm lugs inspired by bike tyre geometry to maintain grip on gravel and loose terrain without sacrificing speed on tarmac.

At 262g, the shoe remains relatively lightweight considering its chunky 43mm / 37mm stack height.

Salomon also added an integrated knitted gaiter and its quickLACE system to improve fit and keep debris out during longer mixed-terrain efforts.

Not quite road, not quite trail

The collaboration arrives as more outdoor and running brands experiment with crossover categories that sit between traditional disciplines.

Gravel cycling exploded over the last decade, and brands now seem keen to apply the same “go anywhere” philosophy to running.

In many ways, the collection feels like Salomon’s answer to Nike ACG, blending technical outdoor performance with fashion-led design and hybrid adventure appeal.

Pas Normal Studios co-founder Karl-Oskar Olsen described the collection as a “hybrid concept” designed around “movement without boundaries.”

Alongside the footwear, the collaboration introduces a co-branded RACE SKIN 2 running vest designed for mixed-terrain adventures, featuring front hydration flasks and rear storage for longer efforts.

The full collection is now available at Pas Normal Studios, with prices starting at £16 (~$21 / €18 / AU$30). The shoes retail for £230 ($310 / €265 / AU$433) at Salomon.

Sun hoodies might look like a niche bit of outdoor kit, but they're one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable in hot weather. They have been popular among anglers, desert hikers, thru-hikers and mountaineers for well over a decade.

One of the many benefits of sun hoodies is that the hood shields your neck and ears, the long sleeves protect your arms, and the lightweight fabric wicks moisture away from the skin. You'll still want sunscreen on exposed areas such as your face and hands, but a sun hoodie can dramatically reduce how much you need to use.

Not all brands tackle the challenge in the same way. Patagonia leans heavily on breathable recycled fabrics and high UPF ratings in its Capilene Sun range, while Arc'teryx combines technical materials with a looser fit designed to maximise airflow during mountain activities.

The North Face's LightRANGE technology uses fabric engineering to reflect heat and manage moisture, helping wearers stay cooler when the sun is beating down. Columbia, meanwhile, relies on its long-established Omni-Shade and cooling technologies to create garments that actively help regulate body temperature.

Below, I collected five options for those who don't shy away from being active outdoors even when the heat starts to climb. Let's get going!

Patagonia Capilene Cool Sun Hoody

£90 / $89 at Patagonia UK and Patagonia US

Patagonia's latest sun hoodie focuses on permanent protection rather than chemical treatments. The recycled polyester fabric is rated to UPF 40+, blocking at least 97.5% of UVA and UVB rays, with a dense knit construction that won't wash out over time.

A textured inner surface lifts the fabric away from the skin to improve airflow and moisture management, while thumb loops and a generous hood increase coverage during long days on the trail or water.

Shackleton Salient Merino Hooded T- shirt

£125 / $170 at Shackleton UK and Shackleton US

The Salient Merino Hooded T-Shirt takes the sun hoodie formula and gives it a premium Shackleton twist.

The lightweight merino-Tencel blend offers natural temperature regulation, odour resistance and moisture management, while the UPF 50+ fabric blocks 98% of UV radiation.

A low-profile hood, thumb loops and relaxed fit provide extra coverage on exposed trails, making it a strong option for hiking, fastpacking and multi-day adventures.

Arc'teryx Ossa 1/2 Zip Hoodie

£180 / $200 at Arc'teryx UK and Arc'teryx US

Arc'teryx takes a different approach, creating a garment that behaves more like an ultralight shell than a traditional baselayer. The Ossa uses lightweight stretch nylon ripstop with UPF 50+ protection, blocking around 98% of UV radiation while adding a touch of wind resistance.

Targeted ventilation zones help dump excess heat, and the design borrows the brand's signature StormHood concept for improved coverage. Weighing just 135g, it packs into its own pocket for easy storage.

Haglöfs L.I.M Sunpack Hoodie

£120 at Haglöfs UK (~$162)

The Scandinavian contender is built around simplicity and low weight. The L.I.M Sunpack Hoodie uses a titanium dioxide-infused fabric with UPF 50+ protection, helping block harmful UV rays without adding bulk.

Open underarm vents improve airflow during fast-paced activities, while the integrated hood shields the neck and ears from direct sun. One of its standout features is packability: the entire hoodie stuffs into its own integrated pocket. Weight starts at just 116g for the women's version. £120 / €139 (approx. $155).

The North Face Sunriser Hoodie (LIGHTRANGE)

Around £75/$80 The North Face and The North Face US

The North Face tackles sun protection with its LIGHTRANGE fabric technology, which reflects solar energy while managing moisture and heat. The Sunriser Hoodie combines UPF 40 protection with lightweight recycled polyester construction and thumb loops for extra hand coverage.

The fabric prioritises cooling performance and fast drying, making it particularly appealing for trail runners and fast hikers who spend long periods exposed above the treeline. Expect a more athletic fit than some hiking-focused alternatives.

Columbia Columbia Sun Trek Hoodie II

£45/$60 Columbia UK and Columbia US

Columbia's Sun Trek Hoodie takes a straightforward approach to hot-weather protection, pairing lightweight recycled polyester fabric with the brand's Omni-Shade UPF 50 technology. The material blocks harmful UV rays while remaining breathable enough for hiking, travel and everyday summer wear.

Unlike some technical mountain-focused alternatives, the fit is relaxed and comfortable, making it an easy all-rounder. Moisture-wicking fabric helps move sweat away from the skin, while the integrated hood provides extra coverage for the neck and ears when shade is scarce.

There was a time when a racing flat meant a pair of zero-drop, thin-soled running shoes. I remember running the Windsor Half Marathon in an ASICS Type A9, very much a low-stack trainer that, at the time, was the norm, and my calves were sore for a week afterwards.

Back then, we thought that was the only way; we accepted that running any distance would require our legs to put in a tremendous amount of work. Cushioning was minimal; rebound was moderate at best.

Running culture was much less hype-driven, and while "niche" isn’t the right word to describe it, the sport was certainly less popular than it is today. Runners are nerdy to this day, but back then, I can’t say it was cool to call yourself one.

The birth of the super shoe

That all changed about a decade ago with the advent of high-stack trainers. Running shoes all of a sudden because these ultralight, tall monsters could propel you forward with ease, all the while preserving your legs. It was magic.

While Nike certainly wasn’t the only company putting out high-stack shoes – Hoka’s (then Hoka One One, a much smaller brand) Carbon X was a really good model – the sport giant’s Vaporfly 4%, and its successor, the Vaporfly NEXT%, is the shoe that many associate with a new era in running.

Built around Nike's ZoomX foam, a Pebax-derived material with roots in aerospace applications, the Vaporfly 4% was designed to improve running economy by around 4% compared with conventional racing shoes.

That might not sound like much, but over a marathon distance, it means you can run the race without completely ruining your legs.

All of a sudden, you started seeing people wearing Nikes everywhere at the start lines. And as the shoes became more abundant, it seemed that all PBs were broken left, right, centre. The shoes were elevated to mystical heights, and any self-respecting runner wanted to get hold of a pair.

The limits of speed

Of course, manufacturers wanted to push the idea further. If one still (carbon) plate embedded in a soft foam could help runners this much, how about adding more? Maybe taller foams would help preserve the legs even more? The sky was the limit... until it wasn’t.

People – presumably those who didn’t have a pair of Vaporflys – started complaining about the ‘unfair advantage’ the shoes provided. Putting on a non-high-stack, non-plated shoe for a race meant losing to those who had them. Some went as far as to call the Vaporfly ‘mechanical doping’.

Professional bodies took notice, too, including the World Athletics (WA), which quite literally drew the line at the Vaporfly, declaring that any shoes with a maximum stack height of 40 mm and more than one plate would be banned from official races, quickly curbing the enthusiasm of both manufacturers and runners.

This felt like a punch in the face for many; after all, we were so close to breaking the two-hour marathon barrier. Runners have come painfully close to running the full 26.2 miles in under two hours, but even the fastest runners could only chip away a few seconds at a time.

Chasing 1:59

Needless to say, seeing the success of the Vaporfly (and the Alphafly) and other similar shoes, all companies started producing their own versions of the concept, eventually evening the playing field. Adidas, New Balance, Saucony and ASICS (even On) all had a super shoe in their stables, offering high rebound and maximum cushioning in an extremely low-weight package.

Yet, due to the limitations imposed by WA, progress was slow, though not for lack of trying. Before the INEOS 1:59 project, a highly orchestrated event that saw marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge break the two-hour barrier under ‘unofficial’ circumstances, Adidas attempted to do the same; there is even a book about it (Ed Caesar – Two Hours: The Quest to Run the Impossible Marathon).

Over the years, a surprising number of runners came incredibly close to the coveted 1:59 marathon time, including Eliud Kipchoge (2:01:09) and the late Kelvin Kiptum (2:00:35), but something always got in the way. The sub-2-hour marathon seemed just as elusive as always, despite the efforts of some incredible athletes and amazing innovations along the way.

Herzogenaurach strikes back

Over this period, Nike, the company that created the disruptive Vaporfly, seems to have slowed down its innovation efforts. To this day, all Nike racing shoes use the same ZoomX foam as the original Vaporfly, albeit with tweaks to slightly change running dynamics.

And while Nikes are still fast, if you want truly innovative running shoes, you might want to look elsewhere. One of the brands that has been pushing the envelope is Adidas, the biggest rival of the Portland-based sports giant.

I wouldn’t say Adidas has been struggling, but the brand has certainly had some issues establishing itself as a running-focused sportswear manufacturer. The company had huge success with football and lifestyle products, letting the running shoe side of things go a bit astray.

That’s not to say there weren’t any good running shoes coming from Herzogeanauch; on the contrary. The Adizero line featured some incredible models, including the Adios Pro 4, which I ran in at the Loch Ness Marathon. Thoroughly enjoyed those shoes (and the Bostons).

That said, Adidas thought this wasn’t enough, and searched for ways to innovate within the confines set by the 40mm-stack-height-plus-one-stiff-plate rule. In 2024, the company launched the Pro Evo 1, its lightest super shoe to date.

The Pro Evo 1 became infamous not just for its incredibly lightweight construction, but also for its reported one-marathon lifespan, meaning its performance wasn’t guaranteed beyond 26.2 miles.

The shoes didn’t fall apart after one race, but they wouldn’t provide maximum benefits, either. In a world where sustainability matters more and more, Adidas chose to go the other way, optimising its pinnacle racer for performance only.

Three records, one shoe

Despite the out-of-the-box thinking, the Pro Evo 1 didn’t break the two-hour barrier. Sure, the shoes were light and agile, but evidently not significantly faster than the competition. Marathon times stayed in the 2:01 area, for now.

The second iteration didn't come a lot closer, either. Then, in 2026, just before the London Marathon, Adidas announced the third iteration of the shoes. The shoes are now even lighter – sub-100g in some sizes – and claimed 1.6% improvement in running economy.

The announcement followed the usual cadence: the Pro Evo 3 were announced just before the race, when the brand released a very limited batch for sale to signal they were available to the public, and the sponsored elites ran the race in the shoes.

However, something has changed this time in a big way. Instead of running the marathon in just over two hours, Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha came in under two hours. Better still, Tigist Assefa also won the race with a women’s only WR of 2:15:41. The common thread was that all these athletes wore the new Pro Evo 3.

Now, I would like to emphasise that, despite advancements in shoe innovation and refinements in training methods, nothing detracts from the incredible athletic performance of these athletes. The speed with which they completed the race is astonishing, to say the least. No shoes will make you an hour faster over a marathon distance.

That said, at the level these athletes operate, every tweak that provides any improvement counts. 0.1% improvement over 26.2 miles can shave off seconds, let alone 1.6%. To run anywhere near as fast as these people, you’ll have to tap into every possible improvement you can find.

Seemingly, until the Pro Evo 3, these enhancements didn’t yield a sub-2-hour marathon time. Add the shoes and not one, not two, but three athletes run marvellous times, which, to me at least, settles the debate on ‘mechanical doping’.

To clarify, I don’t mean that any of them are actually doping, but the shoes did seemingly provide enough of an advantage to push through previously insurmountable marathon times.

The fact that two athletes broke the two-hour barrier in the same race is incredible and a testament not just to their training but also to the innovation machines working behind the scenes.

What comes after sub-two?

As Nike said in its social media post after the race, the clock has indeed been reset. I don’t think we’ll see hordes of runners running sub-two marathons all of a sudden, something people said would happen, referencing Sir Roger Bannister’s sub-4-minute mile in the 50s.

Not to belittle Sir Roger’s incredible achievement, running training in those days was a lot less optimised than today. The fastest long-distance runners have to dedicate all their time to their craft in 2026, and the 2-hour marathon time is already pushing the limits of human physiology. We won’t be seeing 1:55 times any time soon, or ever.

That said, Adidas has opened the door to a world where sub-two-hour times are achievable, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw more shoes from other brands, enabling more runners to run much faster than before.

Best of all, this all happened at a time when running as a sport was incredibly popular. Will you or I ever run a sub-two-hour marathon? Unlikely, but we can run faster than before, thanks to these amazing shoes, and that’s enough for me.

Hoka has unveiled the Skyward X 2, the latest version of its premium super trainer, bringing lighter construction, reduced stack height, a redesigned carbon-fibre plate, and an updated cushioning package to one of the brand's most comfort-focused road shoes.

The new model retains the formula that made the original Skyward X stand out from the crowd, including the highly cushioned platform and the carbon plate designed for everyday training.

This time around, Hoka says the focus has been on making the running shoes more responsive, more stable and more agile without sacrificing the plush feel runners have come to expect.

Less bulk, more bounce

According to Hoka, the Skyward X 2 features a re-engineered construction that reduces both weight and stack height compared to its predecessor.

The company has reduced the stack height and weight while retaining the shoe's max-cushion character, with the men's version weighing 11.0oz (312g) and the women's model weighing 9.1oz (258g).

The shoe maintains a 5mm heel-to-toe drop and combines PEBA midsole foam with supercritically foamed EVA and an updated carbon-fibre plate designed to promote a smoother, more responsive ride.

The changes arrive at a time when the super trainer category is becoming increasingly competitive.

Shoes such as the ASICS Superblast 3, Saucony's Endorphin Series and Adidas Adizero Evo SL have shown that runners are increasingly looking for premium daily trainers that blend race-shoe technology with all-day comfort.

While Hoka hasn't positioned the Skyward X 2 as a pure speed trainer, the lower weight and revised geometry suggest the company wants the shoe to feel more versatile across a wider range of paces.

Chasing the sweet spot

A new jacquard mesh construction is designed to improve breathability and fit, while refined padding, a zonal padded tongue and lace-loop system aim to provide a more secure lockdown during longer runs.

Reflective detailing has been added to improve visibility in low-light conditions.

Hoka describes the Skyward X 2 as delivering its "plushest ride on the road" while also offering a more responsive and stable experience than before.

The Skyward X 2 is available now from Hoka UK, Hoka US and Hoka EU, priced at £190 / $225 / €230.

Brooks is updating one of its most recognisable running shoes for 2026 with the launch of the new Brooks Ghost 18.

The Ghost franchise has long been positioned as the brand’s dependable, do-it-all daily trainer, sitting alongside rivals such as the ASICS Gel-Cumulus and Nike Pegasus in the highly competitive neutral-cushion category.

For the 18th iteration, Brooks appears to be focusing less on dramatic reinvention and more on refining the ride runners already know well.

The biggest update comes underfoot, where the shoe continues to use the brand’s nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, designed to provide softer landings and smoother transitions.

Brooks says the setup is intended to deliver a more “dynamic” feel during everyday runs.

Familiar formula, smoother execution

The Ghost 18 keeps the balanced geometry that has made the line so popular among newer runners and marathon trainers alike.

It features a 10mm drop, a 36mm heel stack and a 26mm forefoot stack, paired with what Brooks describes as “balanced support”.

Weight sits at 289g for the men’s version and 261g for the women’s model, keeping it firmly in traditional daily-trainer territory.

Brooks has also added a new Ortholite X-60 sockliner, which is said to improve step-in comfort and rebound, while the redesigned flat-knit tongue aims to create a softer feel across the top of the foot.

Upper adjustments take centre stage

The Ghost 18 introduces a new triple-jacquard engineered air mesh with roundlight yarn, which the brand says improves breathability and creates a more secure fit.

The shoe appears to lean further into comfort, which arguably makes sense for the Ghost audience.

While carbon-plated super trainers continue to dominate headlines, shoes like the Ghost remain the backbone of most runners’ weekly mileage.

The new Ghost 18 launches on 1 June 2026 at Brooks in multiple colourways for men and women, priced at £135 / $150 / €150 (~AU$211).

Adidas has officially announced a new multi-season partnership with Satisfy, and the first release might be one of the boldest takes yet on its flagship marathon racer.

The announcement comes right after the brand’s other super shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, broke three world records at the 2026 London Marathon.

The collaboration focuses on the Adizero Adios Pro 4 Satisfy, a reworked version of Adidas’ elite carbon-plated running shoe that swaps clean race-day minimalism for a deliberately chaotic, culture-heavy aesthetic inspired by skateboarding and DIY spray-painting.

Desert loops and silver rods

The launch took place through something called “The Circle Pit”, an immersive running and music event staged at a pump track in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, where runners tackled a closed-loop course designed to blend endurance, sound and community into one continuous experience.

As for the shoes, Adidas says the asymmetric 360-degree colour fade was inspired by mismatched skate shoes and DIY spray-paint techniques, while matte silver Energy Rods reference off-road desert buggies.

It uses an asymmetric colour treatment that combines army green, earth brown and black across the upper, creating a noticeably different appearance depending on the viewing angle.

Still very much an Adios Pro underneath

Despite the experimental visuals, the performance package underneath remains intact.

The shoe retains the same core setup as the standard Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4, including full-length Lightstrike Pro foam, Carbon Fibre Energy Rods 2.0, and the race-tuned Continental outsole with Lighttraxion technology.

Satisfy has already collaborated with brands across trail running and performance apparel, but teaming up with Adidas gives it access to one of the fastest and most recognisable racing silhouettes currently on the market.

More than a one-off collab

The partnership has been described as a “multi-season collaboration”, with more launches planned throughout 2026 and beyond.

Given how aggressively brands are now trying to blend performance credibility with cultural relevance, it’s easy to see why Adidas would want Satisfy in its corner.

The Adizero Adios Pro 4 Satisfy launches on 22 May via Satisfy’s website, before a wider release through Adidas channels and the Confirmed app from 25 May, depending on region.

Puma has unveiled the Deviate Pure Nitro, a new plateless running shoe designed to deliver a faster, more responsive ride for everyday training without relying on the carbon-plated formula that has dominated performance footwear in recent years.

The new model joins Puma’s well-established Deviate family but takes a noticeably different approach from the carbon-equipped Deviate Nitro 4.

It's designed for runners who want a lightweight tempo shoe that feels quick but remains comfortable enough for regular mileage.

That positioning immediately puts the shoe into competition with some of the biggest names in the category, including the Nike Zoom Fly 6, Adidas Boston 13 and Asics Superblast 2, all of which blur the line between daily trainer and speed shoe.

A lighter take on the Deviate formula

The biggest change here is the removal of Puma’s PWRPLATE technology that propels every other model in the Deviate family.

Instead, the Deviate Pure Nitro relies entirely on an updated version of the brand’s NitrofFoam midsole (see also: Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 review) to create propulsion and responsiveness.

According to Puma, the shoe weighs 220g in a men’s UK 8, making it around 30g lighter than the Deviate Nitro 4.

The geometry remains fairly aggressive, though, with a 38mm heel stack, 30mm forefoot stack and 8mm drop.

The overall setup suggests Puma is targeting runners who enjoy uptempo sessions but perhaps find plated shoes too rigid or overly demanding for everyday use.

Puma also says the shoe has been tuned to deliver a smoother, more natural ride experience, which aligns with the growing trend of brands introducing “super trainers” that prioritise versatility over outright race-day efficiency.

Speed without the stiffness

Away from the midsole, the Deviate Pure Nitro features an engineered mesh upper, paired with a padded tongue and plush heel collar, designed to enhance comfort during longer sessions.

The outsole uses Puma’s well-regarded PUMAGRIP rubber, which has become one of the brand’s standout technologies in recent years thanks to its reliable wet-weather traction.

Romain Girard, VP Innovation at Puma, described the goal of the shoe as making speed “more accessible” while still retaining the performance-focused character of the Deviate range.

The Deviate Pure Nitro launches globally on 4 June via Puma and selected retailers, priced at €150 (~£130 / $174 / AU$244).

Founded in North Yorkshire in 2010 by a husband-and-wife team with extensive experience in the outdoor and hiking-boot industry, Freet is a British barefoot brand that designs and makes comfortable, robust, high-performing zero-drop trail-running shoes, as well as walking footwear.

I won’t lie, I’d never heard of them before my editor asked me to test the Howgills, so I was very intrigued to see how their footwear would present itself and perform. There is so much competition in the quality running shoe market these days, with massive names like Hoka releasing new shoes all the time and dominating the space, that it’s hard to see how a small independent brand can get noticed and tread its own path.

But I instantly took a shine to Freet’s approach. Using mostly recycled materials, like BottleYarn (a material made from recycled plastic bottles) and Coffee Yarn (a textile created from recycled coffee grounds – yep, really), the brand keeps price points reasonable and incorporates elements of their local landscape into the shoes they produce.

The Howgills, for example, are named after the Howgill Fells, a series of hills that roll across the lovely landscape between England’s Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, where you can find some spectacular and uncongested trails with eye-wateringly wonderful views.

When the shoes arrived, I instantly liked their look, with their bootie design, wide toe box (which suits my feet), and tough outsole. So far, so good, but how would they actually perform? I’ve spent the last two months finding out, across a wide range of terrain, culminating in a trail-running trip to the Peak District, close (ish) to where they were conceived.

Freet Howgill Review

Price and availability

Available in two colourways (black and grey or Khaki green – they don’t mess about with pretentious colours in Yorkshire, and quite right too), the Howgills can be purchased directly from the Freet website if you live in the UK (where you can expect to pay £90), the USA or Canada (US$115) or an EU country (€105).

Design and materials

The Howgill has a cuff that sits around the ankle bone, which makes it look more like a bootie than most barefoot shoes. The fabric is soft, so this collar doesn’t provide support as such, but it does prevent grit, dust and sand from getting into the shoe – reinforced by the all-in-one, sock-like design of the upper.

The flyknit chassis of the Howgill shoe is constructed with BottleYarn, a material made from recycled plastic bottles, featuring a moisture-moving mesh lining to wick sweat away from the foot and a ventilation panel on top. It's designed to be breathable, offer some water repellency, and be hard-wearing and durable.

Although the Howgill looks and feels like a barefoot shoe, it does have a minimalist 'SoftFlex' midsole, and the shoes come with a 3mm AirMax insole, which is removable if you prefer, but it provides some cushioning and prevents the studs from pressing through when you’re running on hard surfaces. The fully flexible outsole features 'HillGrip' tread pattern with 4mm lugs for a secure grip on a range of surfaces.

Performance and comfort

I found the Howgills instantly comfortable to walk and run in. My initial outings in the shoes were around London parks and on longer jogs on mixed terrain, including canal paths, dirt trails and city streets.

I’d been wearing a more traditional-style running shoe (the Lowa Skyterra, which features a 33mm stack) for months before switching to the Howgills, and it took a bit of time to get my leg muscles used to barefoot running again, especially on such hard-packed terrain.

For the first few days, my calf muscles ached a little bit, but the transition was easier and quicker than I’ve experienced when switching to other barefoot models. This was thanks in part, I think, to the thin midsole and comfortable inner that come with these shoes (which the purists can remove if they prefer).

The padding provided by the mega minimalist midsole and 3mm insole didn’t dampen the ground feel or interfere with trail feedback, but it did make things more comfortable on mixed terrain, and it was enough to prevent the 4mm lugs pressing though to the bottom of my feet.

As a result, the shoes provide both a comfortable ride and plenty of confidence-inspiring grip – they really are like slippers with studs.

Soon I was back in the countryside, running regularly on softer terrain ranging from woodland and clifftop paths to beaches. And this is where the Howgills really came into their own. I actually tried switching back to standard running shoes with big midsoles a couple of times, and my body was not happy.

I’d become so used to running with the tactile gait you naturally adopt with barefoot shoes, landing on my forefoot and generally treading more lightly, that my back began to hurt if I wore anything more padded, and it felt like I was clumping clumsily around the trails. It’s lucky I like them, because it looks like I’m going to have to keep running in the Howgills from now on.

I had a couple of events looming on the calendar that would take me across the lumpy landscape of the Peak District. I know how rock-strewn some of the trails are up there, and I considered reverting to a shoe with more underfoot protection. But I also knew the Howgills had been designed to tackle tough terrain in Yorkshire, and this was the perfect opportunity to test them properly.

I wore them for a run around the sprawling expanse of Lyme Park (renowned for having one of England’s toughest parkruns). The following day, during the main event I’d travelled for – the mid-distance Castle and Cake race – the route took me from Castleton, up along Cave Dale, over the shoulders of Mam Tor and Back Tor, before returning via Hope Valley.

The trails were stony and technical, but the Howgills performed perfectly as I’d hoped they would. The outsoles supplied grip on terrain ranging from slick, wet rocks, mud, and slippery tree roots to dusty, loose gravel.

The ankle-high upper design kept all the trail debris out, and the modest cushioning from the midsole and insole was just enough to keep me comfortable without dampening the trail feel.

There’s always a bit of debate about whether you should wear socks with barefoot shoes, and different people have strong opinions in both directions. Personally, I prefer to go sans socks because I find the shoes easier to put on (especially the Howgills) with bare feet, and it lets me spread my toes properly and breathe better.

Often, the downside of this approach is that the material can rub your skin, and the shoes start smelling like Satan’s armpit after about a week, but weirdly, neither of these things has happened with the Howgills, and I’ve got well over 100ks on the clock with them now.

Usually I am of the opinion that trail-running shoes should not be waterproof, because having a membrane like Gore-tex in the mix makes shoes expensive and, while you might keep water out, the sweat you generate from the inside (because they’re never as breathable I you’re told they are) will make you damp, and when water does get in, over the top, it can’t easily escape, so you run around sploshing.

However, Freet’s Howgill shoes are water-resistant (and they really are – I have stood in a flowing stream for ages in them without getting wet feet), but also breathable and quick-drying. I guess this is achieved with the yarn used, rather than a membrane, but however it’s done, it’s very impressive.

Verdict

I’m genuinely not prone to giving gushing reviews, but I’ve been seriously impressed with these shoes. The Freet Howgills are super comfortable, with optional midsole and insole inserts that together supply just the right degree of cushioning while still allowing loads of trail feel.

They repel water enough to keep your feet warm on chillier days, but they still breathe well, and don’t seem to get too smelly even when worn without socks. They offer great grip and durability. And they’re affordable and made with recycled materials. What’s not to love?

Also consider

The Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow shoes are another decent barefoot option that offers additional toe protection, but they're considerably more expensive than anything in Freet's fantastic footwear range.

For a more standard trail-running shoe, with a regular stack and an outsole that will last longer than humanity itself, the Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 is a great shoe. Or, if you really want to run around on a big bouncy mattress-like midsole, check out the Hoka Speedgoat 6.

Everyone's favourite Canadian running brand, Ciele Athletics, is taking another step into the premium performance apparel space with the launch of its reimagined Elite Collection.

Known primarily for its snazzy running caps, Ciele has steadily expanded into apparel over the past few years.

The new range feels like a more deliberate push into the same rarefied territory occupied by brands such as Arc’teryx and Satisfy Running.

As we've seen over the years, the Elite Collection is a highly engineered performance kit built around fabric innovation, thermoregulation, and durability.

The latest iteration uses the COOLmatic | EXP TERRAperf technology, a new woven material developed by the Montreal-based brand (a.k.a. Ciele) and infused with graphene, which the company says helps disperse heat more efficiently during intense efforts.

According to Meagan Smith, Ciele Athletics’ Production and Sourcing Manager, they wanted to take the rugged reliability normally associated with trail gear and reinterpret it for faster road running applications.

Trail thinking, road execution

That crossover between trail functionality and road racing appears throughout the collection.

The CRGTightShort uses compressive fabric with integrated bounce-free storage for nutrition and essentials, while the RDShort reintroduces carbon fibre yarn, a feature previously seen in Ciele’s earlier Elite offerings.

Ciele also claims the shorts use the only fully welded brief liner currently available on the market, combined with embedded ionic silver for permanent odour control.

Of course, there is also headwear, which leans into the technical direction the brand has become known for.

The updated FSTCap - Ethereal incorporates graphene and carbon to improve temperature regulation, while the new TRLBucket Elite introduces a more aggressive sun-protection setup with ceramic-printed fabric, a wraparound brim and integrated neck coverage.

Not just another “super shoe era” running brand

Running brands have spent the past few years (decade?) obsessing over foam compounds, carbon plates and race-day footwear, but apparel innovation has often lagged behind.

Ciele’s approach suggests there’s a growing appetite for technical running clothing that behaves more like modern mountaineering gear, in which temperature regulation, fabric engineering, and lightweight durability are part of the performance equation.

That doesn’t necessarily mean marathon runners suddenly need graphene-infused singlets, of course, but the broader shift towards highly specialised race apparel is becoming harder to ignore.

Especially as runners continue chasing marginal gains in warmer and more unpredictable conditions.

The Elite Collection is available now through Ciele Athletics, with prices from $95 (~£70 / €80 / AU$131).

Born in Bavaria, Germany, just over a century ago, Lowa is a highly trusted and well-respected footwear brand across Europe, but it is better known for its excellent hiking boots, such as the Renegade Evo GTX, than for top-level trail-running shoes.

In fact, Lowa only launched its off-road running range in 2025, with the well-received Amplux and Madrix models. The Skyterra is the latest shoe in the fleet, and it appears to occupy a middle ground between the two earlier shoes, combining the versatility of the Amplux with the high-performance capability of the Madrix.

I’ve tested plenty of Lowa boots and walking shoes in the past, but this is the first time I’ve had the chance to put on the brand’s running shoes.

I was confident these shoes would offer top-quality construction, well-considered design and good durability, but I was curious to see how they’d balance all that with lightweight functionality and fleet-of-footness. There was only one way to find out, so I put a pair to the test on a wide range of terrain and in all sorts of conditions.

Lowa Skyterra review

Price & availability

The Skyterra is available now directly from Lowa for men and women, as well as on various online outdoor and running-oriented sites and in brick-and-mortar outlets. In terms of price as well as style, they’re positioned between the more utilitarian Amplux and elite-leaning Madrix Evo.

As such, in Britain you can expect to pay around £160, while in the United States a pair will set you back about $190 and across the European Union you’re looking at €170.

Design and materials

The Lowa designers have opted for a nice, neutral heel-to-toe drop of 6mm on the Skyterra, which will suit most trail runners. Like the Madrix, the Skyterra boasts a brilliantly grippy Vibram outsole, but it lacks a carbon-composite propulsion plate, with the focus instead on midsole cushioning to provide a more comfortable ride over longer distances.

I don’t know what’s actually in DynaTPE, which Lowa calls the material that makes up most of the generously stacked midsole, but it offers a decent amount of energy return.

The upper is made with synthetic mesh, reinforced by a TPU frame, and a reinforced rand goes right around the shoe, shielding the lower foot from injury-inducing obstacles. This rises around the heel, and there’s also a toecap to protect your pinkies.

The tongue is fully integrated with the chassis to stop grit and other trail debris from getting into the shoe, and there’s a pull hoop on the heel.

Overall, it’s a very well-designed shoe, but one thing I find very annoying is the short laces – you can barely get a double bow done up, and if you use the upper eyelets, it’s hard to do that up at all.

It’s a minor quibble, but it seems such an odd decision to skimp on the length of the laces when so much thought has gone into the rest of the shoe.

Performance

Lowa pitches the Skyterra as a shoe for long-distance outings, but in reality, it performs just as well on short and mid-length runs as it does on epic adventures.

I have worn these shoes while doing parkruns (including the UK’s toughest, on the soft sands of Great Yarmouth’s North Beach, where I was very grateful for the integrated tongue, which kept most of the sand out) and I’ve also used them for marathon-distance challenges.

In all cases, I’ve been very happy with their performance, and it’s worth noting that they’re also good on all kinds of terrain, from sealed and hard-packed surfaces through to technical woodland trails and rocky beaches.

It is true, however, that the fit, feel, and design of the Skyterra make it very comfortable to wear for longer periods, with the midsole providing the perfect mixture of cushioning and rebound, and the 6mm drop just right for maintaining a low centre of gravity and keeping your balance.

The upper is supportive without being restrictive (something I really appreciate, with my wide feet), and while they’re not waterproof (a good thing, in my opinion), they breathe well and let water drain out after stream and river crossings.

The 4.5mm lugs on the Vibram outsole supply reliable grip on almost all surfaces, and the intelligent tread design uses multi-directional chevrons to assist with control and braking, which really instils confidence when you’re running on loose, wet and slippery terrain. The studs are well-spaced, too, so in most circumstances, you don’t collect too much mud to cart around the trails and carry over the hills.

I’ve grown to really love these Skyterra, and they remain the trail shoe I reach for most often at the moment, no matter what kind of off-road run I’m about to do. I just wish Lowa had used a better length lace.

Verdict

With the Skyterra, heritage-soaked outdoor Bavarian brand Lowa have used a century of experience in making durable, protective and high-performing hiking footwear and then applied a miracle weight-loss treatment to make the resulting running shoe nift and swift. This versatile trail-running hoof is extremely versatile, with the requisite grip, support and cushioning all in place to provide a comfortable ride over any distance or terrain.

Also consider

If you're looking for a more performance-oriented shoe, try the slightly more expensive Madrix Evo or check out the lightweight Hoka Tecton X 3, both of which come armed with carbon plates for aggressive propulsion. For comfort, performance, and functionality during longer runs, right up to ultra-distance, the Hoka Mafate 5 and award-winning Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 are both excellent alternatives to the Lowa Skyrterra.

ASICS has unveiled the latest version of its long-running stability franchise, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33, introducing a new support system designed to deliver a smoother and more adaptive ride.

Set to launch globally on 1 June 2026, the latest support shoes from ASICS build on the design direction introduced in the 30th-anniversary shoes and shift their focus to softer cushioning and less intrusive stability.

Support without the scaffolding

The biggest update is FLUIDSUPPORT, a newly named stability technology that aims to guide the foot through each phase of the stride rather than correcting movement in a more traditional sense.

According to ASICS, the system was developed to work in harmony with the body’s natural motion, helping provide forward guidance from heel strike to toe-off.

The new technology builds on the company’s efforts to move towards “guided” stability, in which support is delivered through geometry and cushioning rather than rigid elements.

The midsole setup also evolves in the Gel-Kayano 33 and features a dual-layer construction combining FF BLAST MAX foam on the top layer for a softer, more responsive feel, with FF BLAST PLUS underneath to provide structure and stability.

Both materials have appeared in other ASICS running shoes, but this is the first time they’ve been paired in this configuration within the Kayano line.

ASICS says the result is a more balanced ride that feels plush underfoot while maintaining the support expected from the series.

The comfort playbook evolves

The PureGEL technology is the same as it has been over the past few years and provides excellent shock absorption.

The shoes feature a redesigned engineered mesh upper designed to improve breathability and fit.

The brand also claims a lighter overall construction to help enhance efficiency over longer distances.

Susan Hoddinott-Au from ASICS’ Performance Running division said the new model represents “a new direction for stability running,” with a design inspired by a “supersuit” concept that adapts to the runner while maintaining a secure feel.

Professional triathlete Lucy Charles-Barclay also endorsed the shoe, highlighting its balance of cushioning and support during high-volume training.

The Gel-Kayano remains one of ASICS’ most recognisable franchises, and the 33rd iteration continues a gradual evolution away from traditional stability designs.

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 will be available globally from 1 June 2026, priced at €200 (~£172 / $235 / AU$326). Visit ASICS for more information.

After countless athletes trying in vain for decades, the men’s marathon has its first official sub-two-hour performance.

Sabastian Sawe clocked an astonishing 1:59:30 to win the 2026 London Marathon, becoming the first athlete to break the barrier in a record-eligible race.

Moments later, Yomif Kejelcha crossed the line in 1:59:41, also under two hours (and yet, remarkably, not the winner and not the world record holder – imagine).

On the women’s side, Tigist Assefa delivered a performance just as seismic, setting a new women-only world record of 2:15:41, cementing this as one of the most important days in distance running history.

Even Eliud Kipchoge, who ran 1:59:40 as part of the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna in 2019, couldn't go as fast as Sawe.

Kipchoge's was a breathtaking achievement, but also a highly orchestrated one with rotating pacers, a pace car projecting laser lines, a flat course, perfect conditions, and no requirement to follow standard race rules.

Sawe's, Kejelcha's, and Assefa's times were all set under race conditions on a suboptimal day (from a weather perspective), making their achievement all the more incredible.

When shoes stopped being just shoes

If Kipchoge cracked the psychological barrier, the last few years have chipped away at the physical one.

"The rise of so-called 'super shoes', featuring ultra-light foams, carbon propulsion plates and aggressive geometries, has completely reshaped elite distance running in the past decade.

Case in point, all three record-breaking athletes in London wore the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, the brand's most extreme race-day running shoe to date.

It's lighter than anything that came before it, built with a next-gen version of Lightstrike Pro foam, and designed to maximise energy return while reducing fatigue deep into the race.

And while it would be easy to pin the three athletes' success on Adidas' latest innovation, it's important not to oversimplify the story.

As Sawe said after the race, “To break the world record is something I have dreamed about for a long time… it reflects the hard work behind the scenes, the support of my team, and the role of innovation in helping me push beyond limits."

That said, at this level, where the margins are measured in seconds, the gear has become part of the equation in a way it never was before.

The new normal is anything but normal

A few years ago, a sub-two-hour marathon was a moonshot, but now, two athletes have done it in the same race.

Training, nutrition, pacing strategies and technology have all converged to raise the ceiling.

What used to be a once-in-a-generation performance is starting to look like the new benchmark.

And if that sounds dramatic, consider this: we went from asking if a sub-two-hour marathon was possible to asking how many athletes can do it in a single race.

Running has truly just entered a new era.

Adidas has unveiled the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, a radical update to its flagship supershoe that focuses on one thing above all else: weight.

The new model comes in at an average of just 97 grams (UK 8.5), making it the brand’s first sub-100g racing shoe and around 30% lighter than its predecessor.

The Evo 3 introduces a full rethink of how its midsole and propulsion systems work together, resulting in a claimed 1.6% improvement in running economy, a meaningful gain at the elite end of marathon racing.

“Our goal was two digits on the scale, with better performance than we’ve ever had,” said Stephan Scholten, VP Product at Adidas.

The top-tier running shoes use the next-generation version of adidas’ Lightstrike Pro Evo foam.

The new compound is nearly 50% lighter than previous iterations while still delivering high levels of energy return and cushioning, the brand claims.

The shoe retains a high-stack geometry, with a 39mm heel and 36mm forefoot, keeping it within World Athletics limits while maximising propulsion.

A different way to deliver speed

Complementing the foam is an all-new carbon system called EnergyRim.

A departure from the EnergyRod system seen in previous Adidas supershoes (see also my Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 review), the EnergyRim forgoes the multiple stiff-rod setup in favour of a plate that runs around the edge of the shoe.

Adidas says this carbon-integrated structure is designed to tune stiffness and increase the amount of foam underfoot.

... And then it gets even lighter

Up top, the shoe features an ultra-minimal upper engineered to feel almost weightless on foot.

Adidas says the design draws inspiration from kitesurfing sail materials, with every component, from stitching to laces, stripped back and refined to contribute to performance gains.

Underfoot, the outsole has also been optimised, with Continental rubber placed only in the forefoot to provide grip at speed while keeping overall weight to a minimum.

The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 is the result of a three-year development process, with multiple iterations tested in both lab conditions and high-altitude training environments.

It will debut on the roads in London and launch in limited quantities from 25 April 2026, with a wider release planned for the autumn marathon season.

Pricing is set at $500 / €500. Head over to Adidas Running for more info.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of the London Marathon. The event is the most popular it's ever been, which makes sense given the running boom we’ve experienced since the pandemic and lockdown.

If you’re lucky enough to run the race in 2026, and this is your first time tackling the event, I’d suggest reading through my recommendations. On top of that, it still isn’t too late to upgrade your gear, should you need any last-minute bits before the big day.

The weather will be a bit warmer than ideal, reaching 16ºC degrees by 1 pm. Combined with a cloudy but also somewhat sunny forecast, it might be too warm for beginner runners, potentially leading to discomfort, dehydration, and beyond.

Thankfully, the London Marathon is an exceptionally well-planned event, with plenty of aid stations, support and entertainment along the route. None of this will shield you from the sun, of course, or make you feel less stuffy. You have to put in at least some of the work, people.

Luckily, it’s neither expensive nor cumbersome to carry some extra gear with you, as long as you pick the right items. As someone who has run the race twice (and other marathons), I know full well that the right kit can make all the difference. A good windbreaker might not propel you forward to a new PB, but it can make the experience a lot more bearable.

All that said, I just wanted to say a huge congrats to everyone running the London Marathon in 2026. You’re lucky to be there, so make sure you soak up everything around you.

Shoes

If there is one thing you need to run a marathon, it’s a decent pair of running shoes. It doesn’t necessarily have to be the Nike Alphafly 3, but something well-cushioned with decent rebound. There are many shoes that fit the bill, from Adidas’ Evo SL and ASICS’ Megablast to Nike’s Zoom Fly 6 and Saucony’s Endorphin Pro 5.

I love my pair of Puma Deviate Nitro 3s, but their availability is a bit hit-or-miss right now. The Adizero Boston 13 (Adidas, £140) is a good alternative, or, if you’re looking for an affordable super-shoe, Kiprun’s Kipstorm Elite (Decathlon, £180) might be a good option. I’ve also been enjoying putting the miles in the Nike Pegasus 42 (Nike, £130), which might have enough oomph to keep you going for 26.2 miles.

Hat

Given the weather – and the popularity of the accessory – a running hat is highly recommended for this year’s London Marathon. Normally, I would recommend Ciele’s hats, but there is no way they would arrive in time for the marathon if you haven’t got one already. I’ve been wearing the Arc'teryx Calvus Cap on my recent sunny runs, and I love the lightweight construction. I can literally shove it in my pocket if not needed.

Sadly, you can’t buy it online right now, but the Norvan Mesh 5-Panel Cap (Arc’teryx, £65) is available and is pretty similar. Patagonia’s Duckbill Cap (Patagonia, £35) is also a good option, and it’s also surprisingly affordable (for Patagonia). Buff’s 5-Panel Go Cap (Buff, £29.95) is cheaper again, and looks fab. Finally, Hoka’s Trail Run Hat (Hoka, £30) is excellent, and comes in some lovely colours, too.

Sunglasses

If you don’t want to squint for hours on end, I would suggest getting a pair of performance sunnies for this year’s marathon. I’m not the biggest fan of the oversized, cycling-style sunglasses, but thankfully, many styles look quite decent these days.

Adidas Eyewear’s Kalidro (Shade Station, £98) has a surprisingly sleek silhouette and has a few colour options. Most of Oakley’s running sunnies are way over the top for my taste, but I wouldn’t say no to an Eye Jacket Redux (Oakley, £194) if someone threw a pair my way.

I cannot not mention SunGod’s Classics4 (SunGod, £60), which is subtle and costs a lot less than the other models mentioned.

Belt

Running backpacks are way OTT for anything but ultramarathons, yet you see many runners with their sacks bobbing on their backs during the London Marathon. There are plenty of water stations along the course, so I wouldn’t carry around a bladder – it will tire you out.

I’d much prefer running belts, and the thick, stretchy variety, as they tend to sit on your hips a lot better. My go-to is Camelbak’s Ultra Belt 2.5L (Camelbak, £45), which comes with a soft flask, but I usually use it to store my phone, tissues, gels, keys, etc. ASICS’ Fujitrail Belt (ASICS, £49) is also swell, not to mention the sexy-looking Osprey Duro Dyna Pro Running Belt (Osprey, £40).

Windbreaker

There isn’t supposed to be any rain on Sunday (you never know, though), but I would still recommend a windbreaker or a lightweight mid-layer if you’re the cold type and move a bit slower. Even though it will be warm by early afternoon, the temperature is still rather nippy in the morning when people are standing around in the pens waiting for the start.

You can just take an old sweater or jacket with you and leave it at the start, but if you think you might need a layer later on, get a thin jacket, like UA’s Velociti Pro Lightweight Jacket (Under Armour, £90) or Salomon’s SHAKEout Fly (Salomon, £84). For something more affordable, check out H&M Move’s Lightweight Water-resistant Running Jacket (H&M, £45)

The thin layers don’t seem much, but if you’re moving, the extra barrier will lock in some of the warm air to keep your core warm enough. Plus, once you don’t need them anymore, you can wrap them around your waist or shove them in your pocket. I usually hold both arms and spin the jacket until it’s as thick as a belt, then tie it around my waist, so it doesn’t flap around my calves.

With the TCS London Marathon 2026 just around the corner, I can’t help but think back to the times I ran what is arguably the most in-demand marathon on the planet. I did it twice in seven months, in October 2022 and April the year after.

Since then, I turned down opportunities to do it again, which I’m sure will surprise people, given that over one million people entered the ballot last year to run the London Marathon in 2026. It’s not that I don’t like it – I love the course, but there are other races to experience, which is what I did.

When the city runs with you

That said, I miss the London Marathon. Of all the big races I've completed over the years, this one has the best atmosphere, with people cheering you on at almost every corner. I ran the Paris Marathon a couple of years ago and was surprised to see hardly anyone in sections of the race.

The London Marathon goes hard, with every borough putting on a huge display for runners. Sure, most city marathons have entertainment en route, but in London, almost every pub will have speakers facing the street and pumping out music, not to mention the great people of London, who will be supporting you with claps, signs, sweets, fruits, water; you name it.

As such, my first advice for London Marathon newcomers is to ditch personal audio devices. Running headphones aren’t outright banned from the race, but it’s one of those courses where listening to music will rob you of one of the most important aspects of the race, the aforementioned atmosphere.

Not to mention, there is a new section this year called “Woodland Way,” which will “provide participants with a moment of connection to the natural world as they pass through mile 10, along Salter Road.” Veterans’ Corner is another new addition to the course, positioned at mile 23, a dedicated space to celebrate the UK’s armed forces community.

With your head down and ears preoccupied with music, you will miss all the new and old bits, which would be a shame.

Run the race, not the clock

I wouldn’t worry about running a PB, either, although the London Marathon isn’t a slow course as such. I’m sure most people wear a running watch – I sure did on both occasions – but given how much stuff is going on, I would certainly prioritise the experience over fast running.

If you feel ready, you can go for it, though, as the runners thin out significantly after the first few miles. Plus, people start in blocks, so there isn’t a massive congestion at the beginning of the race, either, and the course is pretty wide all throughout.

In terms of motivation, most runners will hit the wall sooner or later on the course, but that’s where the crowd’s support comes into play yet again. In my recap of the 2022 London Marathon, I mentioned that having your name somewhere will automatically make people cheer you on more. If you’re happy to put on a costume, that’s even better.

I wouldn’t worry about carrying a running backpack/water bladder either. There are 15 water stations along the course, of which four will have Lucozade Sport drinks (at mile 7, 15, 21 and 23) and some will also have Lucozade Sport Gels (at Mile 13 and 19). Of course, if you have your fuelling strategy all figured out, and it involves bags and bladders, go for it.

Flat doesn’t mean easy

The London Marathon course is pretty flat, which I’m sure most runners appreciate. There are a few ramps to traverse, but nothing too demanding. It certainly isn’t as hilly as the Loch Ness Marathon, though I love that race for its ups and downs (and beautiful views). That said, it’s tarmac all the way, so your legs will be pretty knackered by the finish line.

You don’t necessarily need the fastest running shoes, but I would suggest lightweight max-cushion or tempo trainers with a bit of oomph, such as Puma Deviate Nitro 3, ASICS Megablast, Adidas EVO SL, Nike Zoom Fly 6, Saucony Endorphin series, or something along those lines.

The weather could be interchangeable, and especially at the beginning of the race, when you’re waiting in the pens, you will feel the chill. You can bring an old sweater or jacket with you, as bins outside the pens collect these items, which are then donated.

Very important, though, is not to try to throw them from a mile away, because volunteers will have to pick them up from the ground, and that isn’t nice.

Be the runner people cheer for

This leads me to my last piece of advice: say thank you to marshals, volunteers, and people you interact with during the race. Many of them are there for free to help and support you, and for that, they deserve at least a thank you. Slow down and put your used paper cups in the bins after emptying them, and don’t throw them at people who are trying to keep the bin area tidy.

Without them, the London Marathon would be a very different experience, and not in a good way, so appreciate the support as it goes a long way. The London Marathon is for everyone, and if you are lucky enough to race it in 2026 – or any year – make an effort to be the best marathoner you could be. It will make the whole race much more pleasant for everyone.

Running brands have spent years refining cushioning systems and energy return, yet one long-standing issue of knowing when a shoe has genuinely reached the end of its life has remained unresolved.

Kiprun is attempting to tackle that problem with the Kipnext Connect, a new running shoe developed in collaboration with London-based startup Movmenta.

The model introduces embedded sensing technology designed to measure how the midsole performs over time, focusing on the gradual loss of cushioning that typically goes unnoticed by runners.

Tracking wear where it matters most

The system relies on Movmenta’s Sollo sensor, a battery-free component weighing around three grams, integrated across the midsole and upper.

The sensor uses electromagnetic signals to monitor how the foam compresses in its resting state, with measurements taken primarily in the heel area, where most runners experience impact.

Data is accessed through a companion app by holding a smartphone over the shoe (similar to a contactless payment).

The app translates the readings into a cushioning degradation percentage, offering a clearer picture of how much performance remains in the midsole.

A high-stack trainer with performance ambitions

Kiprun positions the Kipnext Connect as a premium daily trainer built for high mileage, featuring a generous 53 mm rear heel stack, placing it firmly among max-cushioned options.

Its midsole uses supercritical A-TPU foam, a material designed to provide a combination of softness and energy return, with the brand claiming a 20% increase in cushioning compared to the Kipride Max.

Weighing approximately 265 grams in size EU 43 and featuring an 8 mm drop, the shoe is said to target runners seeking a stable, protective ride for longer sessions, including endurance runs and marathon training.

What the tech promises

Cushioning tends to degrade well before a shoe shows visible signs of wear, which can affect comfort and potentially contribute to injury.

By measuring foam compression directly, the Kipnext Connect aims to give runners a more objective way to decide when a shoe should be replaced.

The concept could help reduce premature replacements while also preventing runners from pushing worn-out shoes too far, an issue that often stems from relying on guesswork rather than measurable data.

The trade-offs to consider

Questions remain around how accurately the system reflects real-world wear and how useful the data will prove in day-to-day training.

Translating foam compression into a clear recommendation for replacement is not straightforward, particularly when factors such as running style, weight and terrain all influence how a shoe breaks down.

Priced at £190 ($257 / €218 / AU$358), the shoes fall into the premium bracket, marking a shift for Kiprun, a brand more commonly associated with strong value propositions.

The addition of embedded electronics also raises questions about recyclability, as combining foam, textiles and sensors makes end-of-life processing more complex.

A new direction for running gear

The Kipnext Connect highlights a broader shift towards connected equipment, in which products generate their own performance data rather than relying solely on external wearables such as running watches.

If widely adopted, this kind of technology could influence how shoes are designed, tested and replaced, bringing a more data-driven approach to a category that has historically relied on feel and approximation.

Kiprun plans to launch the Kipnext Connect by the end of 2026, with the shoe offering an early look at how running gear might evolve over the next few years.

Altra might not be the first name that comes to mind when talking about fashion-led running shoes, but its latest collaboration suggests that could be about to change.

The Colorado-based brand has teamed up with Los Angeles label PLEASURES to launch a limited-edition version of the Experience Flow 3, tapping into the growing appetite for 90s and early-2000s running aesthetics.

The result is the “Satellite” colourway, a metallic silver-blue design that channels the era’s love of bold finishes and expressive details.

It’s a direction we’ve seen from bigger players like Nike and Salomon in recent months, as retro-inspired running gear continues to spill into everyday wear.

Now, Altra is making its own play, just with a more unconventional edge.

A performance shoe with a rebellious streak

Despite the collection's fashion-first approach, the Experience Flow 3 retains Altra’s signature geometry, including a low heel-to-toe drop and a roomy toe box that lets your feet move more naturally.

That’s paired with a noticeably more expressive upper, with silver paint streaks running across the shoe, giving it a worn-in, almost industrial look, while PLEASURES branding features prominently across the laces and forefoot.

According to the brand, the design is meant to capture motion in real time, with the shoe acting almost like a canvas shaped by movement, sweat and repetition.

Collaborations between performance brands and fashion labels aren’t new, but this one feels more aligned than most.

PLEASURES has built its reputation on reworking classic silhouettes through a punk and subcultural lens, while Altra has long positioned itself as an outsider in the running world.

That shared “question the norm” mindset comes through in the campaign, which toys with the idea of running as a creative expression rather than as pure performance.

The Altra x PLEASURES “Satellite” Experience Flow 3 is available from 14 April in limited quantities via select retailers and online.

In the UK, the shoe is priced at £161, which puts it in line with premium daily trainers and most fashion-led running collaborations right now.

In the US, the shoes are sold for $160 at Altra (~€136 / AU$224).

Nike’s latest earnings call focused largely on business performance, but as always, it also offered a useful glimpse into where the brand’s running shoes could be heading next.

Plus, it also confirmed that running remains one of the strongest areas of growth within the company.

The running category continues to perform well, with Nike reporting more than 20% growth in the most recent quarter and double-digit increases across several key regions.

Simultaneously, overall revenue remained flat at $11.3 billion, while profits declined compared with the same period last year, highlighting how much of the current momentum is driven by performance categories rather than the business as a whole.

Running continues to stand out

Nike made it clear that running is one of the areas delivering the most consistent demand, especially when compared to lifestyle and sportswear, which are still seeing declines in many markets.

The company has been actively reducing its reliance on older lifestyle products, including long-running franchises such as the Air Force 1, Dunk and Air Max models, that have been widely available and frequently discounted.

The brand described this process as “removing unhealthy inventory of our classic footwear franchises,” a move intended to improve the overall product mix available to consumers.

While this approach has created some short-term pressure on sales, it also allows Nike to shift its focus to newer performance products, particularly in categories such as running, training, and football, where demand appears more stable.

A different approach to cushioning

Alongside the broader business update, Nike highlighted a new Air Max silhouette, the Air Liquid Max, which introduces a different way of thinking about cushioning.

The shoe uses a “point-loaded” Air unit that places cushioning only where it is needed underfoot, rather than relying on a full-length Air Zoom unit (see also: Nike Pegasus 42 launch) or oversized midsole (e.g. Nike Vomero Premium review).

The company recently started pushing innovation in one of its oldest technologies, trying to move its most iconic innovation beyond shoes.

While the Air Liquid Max is a lifestyle model rather than a performance running shoe, it reflects a broader shift in how Nike approaches comfort and cushioning.

The brand appears to be moving beyond simply increasing foam height to explore more targeted solutions.

New ideas without replacing race day shoes

That said, there is no indication that Nike is moving completely away from its established race-day footwear, as high-stack, carbon-plated shoes continue to play an important role at the top end of the running range and remain closely linked to performance.

Rather than replacing those models, newer platforms such as Liquid Air are more likely to be introduced across training and everyday running shoes, where there is more room to experiment with different ride characteristics.

Nike described these developments as “scalable foundations for growth,” meaning they are designed to be used across multiple types of footwear over time, rather than limited to a single product or category.

What this means for future releases

Nike did not provide specific timelines or product details, but the direction it is taking is becoming clearer as the brand continues to place greater emphasis on performance categories, with running leading the way in terms of both growth and product development.

At the same time, early references to platforms such as Liquid Air suggest that future running shoes may not rely solely on increasing stack height or cushioning, but could instead explore different ways to deliver comfort and efficiency.

The updates point to a gradual shift rather than a sudden change, where Nike continues to support its existing race-day shoes while also developing new ideas that could shape how its running footwear feels in the years ahead.

[via Nike Investor Relations]

Adidas has teamed up with Sydney-based label Song for the Mute for a new running collaboration that shifts the focus away from performance metrics and towards everyday movement.

The First Breath marks Song for the Mute’s first step into performance running, reworking Adidas Running staples through a more emotional and design-led lens.

Rather than centring on race-day results or elite athletes, the collection aims to highlight routine, consistency, and the simple act of getting out the door, with Adidas framing the sport as more accessible and personal.

A familiar daily trainer, reworked

The collaboration's hero product is the Adidas Supernova Rise 3, a comfort-focused daily trainer built around adidas’ soft Dreamstrike+ midsole, designed to deliver a smooth, cushioned ride for easy and steady miles.

The shoes feature the Support Rods system that adds subtle stability underfoot, while the breathable engineered mesh upper and durable outsole reinforce its role as a reliable, high-mileage option.

Here, the Supernova Rise 3 has been updated with a more muted, earthy palette, alongside hand-drawn graphic elements across the midsole, giving the otherwise technical silhouette a more human feel.

The finish is intentionally imperfect, with sketch-like details that contrast with the precision of the underlying performance tooling.

Alongside the footwear, the collection introduces a focused range of Adi365 apparel, including tanks, T-shirts and shorts across men’s, women’s and unisex fits.

The same design language carries through, with soft neutral tones and hand-drawn detailing applied across seams and logos.

Each piece is built within adidas’ existing performance frameworks but designed to transition easily into everyday wear, blurring the line between run kit and casual clothing.

The Song for the Mute Supernova Rise 3 retails for €150 / £130 (~$173 / AU$251), with the full SS26 collection available from 2 April 2026 via Adidas, Song for the Mute, and selected retail partners.

Canadian running brand Ciele Athletics is best known for its cult-favourite caps, but its latest launch suggests it has bigger ambitions.

The new Icon collection leans heavily into fabric innovation to solve one of warm-weather running’s biggest frustrations: overheating.

While most performance apparel, including Nike’s widely used Dri-FIT system, focuses on moisture-wicking to keep sweat under control, Ciele is taking a slightly different approach.

Instead of dealing with heat after it builds up, the brand is trying to stop it from becoming a problem in the first place.

The Icon collection is built on two new material systems designed to regulate temperature in real time.

The first, RAYaway ceramic ripstop, is used primarily across the brand’s headwear range and works by reflecting solar radiation away from the fabric's surface to reduce heat buildup under direct sun exposure.

Alongside this, Ciele introduces its COOLmatic | EXP fabrics, which incorporate carbon or graphene-infused yarns.

These are engineered to dissipate heat generated by the body during high-intensity efforts, while also supporting moisture management and odour control during longer sessions.

From daily miles to race day

The collection itself is designed to cover a range of use cases, from easy training runs to race-day efforts.

Key pieces include the GOCap Solar and FSTCap Ethereal, both built with breathability and sun protection in mind, as well as the ICNSinglet and ICNShort 3” Brief, which focus on lightweight construction and unrestricted movement.

The singlet uses an ultra-light COOLmatic | EXP HOLLOWmesh with carbon for temperature regulation and comfort, while welded construction helps reduce chafing and overall weight.

The shorts, meanwhile, feature a graphene-infused stretch woven fabric and an internal pocket system designed to keep race-day fuel organised and accessible.

Across the range, the emphasis is on minimising bulk while maximising airflow and thermoregulation, making the pieces particularly suited to summer running and high-output sessions.

If the promise of ceramic and graphene-backed cooling holds up in real-world use, bigger brands may need to start thinking beyond sweat-wicking alone.

The Icon Collection is now available at Ciele US, with prices starting at $80 (~£60 / €69 / AU$115).

Veja has expanded its running line with the launch of the Condor 3 Off-Road, a hybrid shoe designed to handle both city streets and uneven trails, tapping into the growing demand for “door-to-trail” versatility.

Inspired by gravel biking, the new model blends road-running efficiency with trail-ready durability, building on the brand’s Condor 3 Advanced platform while introducing a more aggressive outsole and updated upper.

Unlike traditional road-running shoes, the Condor 3 Off-Road features a redesigned outsole with 4 mm lugs to improve grip on loose and uneven surfaces without compromising usability on tarmac.

That puts it squarely in competition with models like the Nike Pegasus Trail and Hoka Challenger ATR, both of which target runners who don’t want to swap shoes mid-session.

The upper is made from ripstop fabric for added tear resistance, while the outsole has been tweaked to be more robust and longer-lasting than previous versions.

A different take on performance

Underfoot, the shoe uses what Veja calls a “Dynamic Plate,” a bio-based EVA stability plate embedded in the midsole to improve energy return and efficiency during faster efforts.

It’s not a carbon plate; instead, the focus is on consistent energy distribution and stability across varied terrain, which makes sense for a shoe designed to move between surfaces.

Specs-wise, the Condor 3 Off-Road sits firmly in the daily trainer category, with a weight of 295g, an 8 mm drop, and a neutral ride with a relatively firm cushioning profile.

Veja has also refined the fit, widening the lacing cage by 5 mm to reduce pressure points across the midfoot.

As expected from the brand, sustainability remains front and centre.

The shoe uses a mix of Amazonian rubber, sugarcane-derived EVA and recycled polyester across key components, continuing Veja’s push into performance footwear without abandoning its eco-first identity.

The Condor 3 Off-Road is a hybrid trail running shoe that prioritises versatility and sustainability in equal measure.

For runners who split their time between pavements, parks and light trails, it could be a compelling alternative to more traditional door-to-trail options.

The Veja Condor 3 Off-Road is now available from Veja UK and Veja US for £170 / $220, following its launch on 26 March 2026.

The North Face has unveiled its SS26 Summit Series trail running kit, bringing a seasonal refresh to its elite mountain range.

The update leans heavily on performance, with the Vectiv Pro 3 taking centre stage as the brand’s latest push into speed-focused trail running.

The top-tier trail running shoes feature a dual-stacked VECTIV plate system, pairing a full-length carbon-fibre propulsion plate with a TPU stability top plate for enhanced energy return.

It utilises the new DREAM foam midsole – the same tech powering the Altamesa 500 V2 – as well as an aggressive rocker midsole geometry for better toe-off.

Grip is provided by the redesigned SURFACE CTRL outsole with 3.5mm lugs.

A full system built for the mountains

Designed for runners who want to move fast across technical terrain, the 25-year-old Summit Series continues to sit at the sharp end of The North Face’s performance lineup.

Beyond footwear, the SS26 drop reinforces The North Face’s head-to-toe approach to trail racing.

The Summit Series Superior FUTURELIGHT jacket is designed to provide weather protection without adding bulk, while the High Trail tops and Pacesetter shorts prioritise lightweight comfort and breathability for long distances.

Accessories like the Run 10 Vest and Run Belt round out the system, supporting hydration and storage for everything from short efforts to all-day missions in the mountains.

The new Lava Red, Frost Grey, Pearl Stone and TNF Black colourways bring a fresh seasonal look, but the brighter tones also improve visibility on the trail.

As trail running continues to borrow ideas from road racing, The North Face is making it clear it wants to stay in the conversation.

With the Vectiv Pro 3 leading the lineup, this Summit Series update leans firmly into speed-focused trail performance.

The Summit Series is available now at The North Face US, The North Face UK and The North Face EU, with prices starting at $15 / £23 / €26 (~AU$21).

A month ago, I ran an article about three exciting running shoe launches in 2026, saying this year is shaping up to be a great time for runners. It's not even the end of March, and I'm back again with three more releases that feel quite as significant.

Interestingly, two of the three new pairs I'll mention here are trail running shoes, showing how popular the sport has become in recent years.

I was lucky enough to attend UTMB in Chamonix last year, and it was mind-blowing to see how many people turned up for an ultra in a small (albeit well-known) mountain village in the Alps. Seeing people cheering runners on at 1 am is not something you'd have seen 10-15 years ago.

We all know that companies will jump on trends to monetise on the growing interest in any sport. Road running has been steadily growing for a number of years now, pulling trail running along with it, which means there are more races and more runners seeking top-shelf trail-running footwear.

This surge in interest might explain Japanese sports brand Mizuno's return to trail running, and why Brooks decided that it needs to launch a plated trail racer now. Plus, Adidas is pushing new foam technology to new heights.

Can't get enough

Even though it's only been a few weeks since my last article, we've seen a ton of new releases in the road and trail running space.

The North Face's Altamesa 500 V2 (£135, The North Face), previously a bit of a 'meh' franchise, stepped up its game by introducing the brand’s new nitrogen-infused DREAM midsole and an aggressive silhouette borrowed from the Vectiv series. It's still a pretty affordable shoe, though.

Arc'teryx has also tweaked its trail racer. The Sylan 2 (£200, Arc'teryx) has dropped weight, improved stability, and now features a redesigned upper and a more responsive midsole setup, including a carbon-fibre plate for extra propulsion and stability.

Back on the road, Hoka updated its fast daily trainer, the Mach 7 (£140, Hoka), which focuses on refining key areas such as weight, breathability and fit while maintaining the responsive ride that defines the Mach series. It's a small update, echoing the old adage: if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Decathlon's own Kiprun is pushing the boat out with its new super shoe, the Kipstorm Elite (£180, Decathlon). The brand says the idea is to balance stability with a high-energy toe-off, a setup Kiprun claims delivers a 13% boost in perceived dynamism compared to its predecessor while also trimming weight. All for a rather attractive price.

On's expanded its LightSpray technology, which can now also be experienced in shoes other than just conceptual marathon racers. The Cloudmonster 3 Hyper (£270, On) is far from cheap, but it's an exciting technology that shows the way forward in terms of creating shoes with less waste.

There were also two smaller news stories. Nike keeps pushing its ACG brand, and raced a custom, spiked Ultrafly shoe against a car on an ice track. You can't buy the shoes, but it's a fun story. Lastly, Adidas launched a Labrum version of its Adizero Evo SL (£130, Adidas) – still the same brilliant shoes for the same brilliant price, but a different colour.

Walero is stepping out of its comfort zone and into everyday performance gear with the launch of its new Walero Active collection, and it’s bringing some serious technical pedigree along for the ride.

The British brand built its reputation designing FIA-approved base layers for professional racing drivers, and now, the same approach is being reworked for runners, gym-goers and anyone spending long days on the move.

Walero’s technology is built around Outlast, a NASA-derived material that uses phase change materials (PCMs) to regulate temperature at the source.

Instead of reacting to sweat like traditional wicking fabrics, it works proactively through micro-encapsulated “Thermocules” embedded in the fibres, which absorb, store and release heat as your body temperature changes.

From race suits to running gear

It might not be obvious at first, but the motorsport background plays a bigger role here than the space-tech headline might suggest.

Racing drivers operate in brutally hot, enclosed environments where even small temperature changes can impact focus and endurance.

Walero’s original base layers were designed to reduce heat stress over long stints behind the wheel, and that same thinking carries over into the Active range.

The result is clothing that doesn’t just react to sweat after the fact but aims to prevent overheating in the first place.

For runners and outdoor athletes, especially in the UK’s unpredictable conditions, that kind of adaptability could be more useful than traditional single-purpose fabrics.

“Smart” fabric without the tech overload

The garments feature seamless construction, four-way stretch and Polygiene StayFresh treatment to reduce odour build-up, with the added benefit of needing fewer washes over time.

That ties into a broader sustainability push seen in the outerwear industry, championed by brands like Patagonia, with longer-lasting wear and lower environmental impact baked into the design.

The four-piece launch includes long-sleeve tops and leggings for men and women, with names inspired by mountains including Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Helvellyn.

Walero Active is available now at Walero, with prices starting at £145 (~$145 / €168 / AU$274) for tops and rising to £195 (~$261 / €226 / AU$369) for the half-zip layer.

Mizuno has been building momentum in road running for years, but its presence on the trails has felt less defined – until now.

The brand has just announced the Neo Accera, a striking new trail running shoe that marks the beginning of a broader push back into the category.

It's part of a wider “revitalisation of Mizuno Trail”, with more models already planned through 2026.

The Neo Accera is positioned as the brand’s first “super trail shoe,” a high-performance option built to handle everything from technical terrain to ultra-distance racing.

It directly competes with shoes such as Brooks' Cascadia Elite, The North Face's VECTIV 3.0, and many Hoka runners.

A comeback built on performance

The Neo Accera has been designed with big goals in mind, including the demands of 100-mile trail races.

It pairs a nitrogen-infused version of Mizuno’s Enerzy NXT foam with a rock plate and a wide, stable platform, with the aim to balance cushioning, protection and responsiveness over long distances.

The brand says the midsole is also built to resist compression over time, a key factor for runners spending hours on their feet.

Underfoot, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with aggressive traction lugs delivers grip on technical terrain, while the stack height (heel: 41mm; forefoot: 32.5 mm) puts it firmly in max-cushion territory.

The Neo Accera has already been tested in competition, including the UTMB TDS (145km/9500m+), in which a Mizuno athlete, Matis Leray, placed fourth while wearing a single pair.

A new look for a new era of trail running

The upper features a bold, contour-line-inspired graphic that feels closer to modern outdoor fashion than traditional mountain gear.

Mizuno describes the design as a crossover between urban and performance running, hinting at broader appeal beyond pure trail use.

That shift mirrors a wider trend in the category, where brands are increasingly blending technical performance with lifestyle aesthetics.

The Neo Accera follows the earlier Neo Lumina and forms part of a wider plan to rebuild Mizuno’s trail lineup from the ground up.

More models are expected to land over the next year, covering different distances and use cases as the brand looks to establish a more complete ecosystem for trail runners.

The Neo Accera is launching on 25 March at Mizuno for the recommended price of $200 / £165 / €190.

On has announced the next phase of its Cyclon initiative, introducing a new circular services program designed to extend product lifecycles and reduce waste.

The update marks a shift away from the brand’s original subscription-based model, launched in 2022, toward a broader system that applies across its product range.

Under the new program, customers in select markets can trade in a broader collection of pre-owned On products for credit and purchase refurbished items through a dedicated resale platform.

Returned products in good condition will be prepared for resale, while items that are not suitable for resale will be donated through partner organisations or recycled where donation is not possible.

The aim is to keep products and materials in use for longer rather than discarding them after initial use.

Focus on materials and manufacturing

Alongside the new program, On highlighted ongoing efforts to increase the use of recycled and bio-based materials in its products.

Recent models, including the Cloud 6 and Cloudnova running shoes, incorporate bio-attributed foam and recycled materials in the upper.

The company also continues to develop its LightSpray manufacturing process, which creates shoe uppers in a single step.

This approach is intended to reduce material waste compared to traditional multi-piece construction methods.

“We will use information gathered from returned products and our regional recyclers to engineer better material choices and recyclability into future products,” said Begum Kurkcu, Senior Director of Sustainability at On.

“Circularity at On is not just about trade-ins, resale, donation or recycling – it’s about relentlessly innovating circular materials, extending product lifespans, and minimising waste at every stage.”

As part of the transition, the original Cyclon subscription service will be discontinued.

The Cyclon collection, previously available only through subscription, will be offered for direct purchase from June 2026.

Products in the collection are designed to be fully recyclable, and On will continue to collect used Cyclon items, with materials reused in new products or other applications.

Initial rollout and expansion plans

The circular services program is launching in Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, with plans to expand to additional markets.

According to the company, the initiative builds on insights gained from the original Cyclon model and is intended to support longer-term circularity goals across its product portfolio.

For more info on Cyclon, visit On now.

66°North might be best known for its premium outerwear, but its latest drop heads in a different direction.

Instead of alpine-ready shells, the brand is turning its attention to trail running with the updated Helgafell Collection for SS26.

And this time, the comparison feels less Arc’teryx and more Salomon.

The Helgafell range, featuring lightweight layering options, packability and storage solutions, is clearly designed for runners who spend long days on unpredictable terrain.

The collection includes windbreakers and waterproof jackets that disappear into their own pockets, 2-in-1 shorts with multiple stash compartments, and tights with deep thigh pockets, all finished with reflective detailing inspired by Icelandic roadside markers.

Built for Iceland, not just the trail

Like much of 66°North’s output, the Helgafell Collection is shaped by Iceland’s famously volatile weather.

That means pieces are designed to handle sudden shifts in wind, rain and temperature, a key reason the line leans so heavily on adaptable, packable layers.

The Helgafell Jacket leads the charge here, offering an ultra-light windproof shell that packs into its own pocket.

It’s made from PFAS-free ripstop fabric with UV 50+ protection, odour control, and a water-repellent finish, making it just as suited to exposed ridgelines as to breezy summer runs.

The sleeveless Helgafell Vest builds on that idea, delivering similar protection in a lighter format, with added chest insulation and a reversible security pocket for essentials.

Trail performance with everyday appeal

Other items, such as the moisture-wicking base layers, available as both short- and long-sleeve options, offer anti-bacterial treatment and UV 50+ protection.

Meanwhile, the Helgafell Short Tights and full-length Tights focus on comfort, durability and on-the-go storage.

The 2-in-1 Helgafell Shorts arguably best capture the collection’s intent with integrated inner tights, multiple pockets and high-visibility reflective strips.

While Salomon leans heavily into race-day performance, Helgafell feels more relaxed, a collection designed not just for moving fast in the mountains, but for slotting into everyday life, too.

The new Glacial Beach and Sulphur Powder colourways reinforce that shift, bringing a softer, landscape-inspired palette that feels as at home in the city as it does on the trail.

The Helgafell Collection is now available at 66ºNorth, with prices starting at £20 / $20 / €20 (~AU$32).

Apple has just become an official partner of the TCS London Marathon, one of the world’s most iconic endurance races, and while the announcement itself is light on detail, it could signal something bigger for runners and Apple Watch users alike.

The announcement comes on the same day as the launch of the company's second take on the over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max 2.

The partnership places Apple alongside the event’s existing sponsors and supporters, bringing the company directly into one of the most influential communities in global running.

Every year, the London Marathon attracts tens of thousands of participants and millions of spectators, making it one of the most visible platforms for fitness technology.

For instance, a record 1,133,813 people applied for a place in this year's ballot, competing for roughly 15,000–20,000 spots.

For Apple, the move looks like another step in a long-term push to position the Apple Watch as a serious running wearable rather than 'just' a lifestyle smartwatch.

Apple is leaning further into running

Over the past few years, Apple has steadily added more advanced training tools to the Apple Watch platform.

Features such as running power, training load, pace alerts and advanced running metrics have brought the device closer to dedicated sports watches from companies like Garmin and COROS.

The company also introduced more detailed running analytics through watchOS updates, while premium models such as the Apple Watch Ultra 3 added dual-frequency GPS and longer battery life aimed at endurance athletes.

Partnering with a major race like the London Marathon helps reinforce that message.

Instead of simply marketing the Apple Watch as a general health tracker, Apple is aligning the product with a global running event that attracts everyone from first-time participants to elite athletes.

What the partnership could lead to

Although the announcement does not yet outline specific features, marathon partnerships often evolve into deeper integrations over time.

It would not be surprising to see Apple introduce race-specific tools, such as enhanced pacing features, training programs through Apple Fitness+ or tighter integration with the event’s digital experiences.

By attaching its brand to one of the world’s biggest marathons, Apple is reinforcing its long-term ambition to be seen not just as a tech company, but as a major player in the global fitness and health ecosystem.

Read the announcement on the London Marathon website.

Brooks has stepped into one of the most competitive segments of the trail running shoe market with the launch of the Cascadia Elite, a plated off-road racer designed for speed on technical terrain.

The shoe arrives alongside the new Ghost Trail, but the Cascadia Elite marks a more significant moment for the brand.

While Brooks has long been known for dependable trail models like the Cascadia, it has largely stayed out of the plated trail racing category (until now).

The Cascadia Elite is built around DNA Gold cushioning made from 100% PEBA foam, combined with a carbon-infused Pebax SpeedVault+ plate that helps maintain momentum across climbs, flats and descents.

The company says the setup is designed to provide propulsion while maintaining control on uneven terrain.

The rise of off-road super shoes

With this configuration, Brooks is clearly targeting the same performance category as shoes like the Nike Ultrafly, Hoka Tecton X 3, Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra, and NNormal Kjerag Brut, designed to bring road-style super-shoe energy return to mountain racing.

Traction comes from a Vibram Megagrip Elite outsole, a premium compound developed to deliver grip on both wet and dry terrain during race efforts.

The upper features a MATRYX-engineered woven construction with Kevlar fibres, designed to keep the foot secure while remaining lightweight and water-resistant.

Trail running for the rest of us

Alongside the elite racer, Brooks recently introduced the Ghost Trail, a more approachable off-road option built around the familiar ride of the Ghost road-running shoe.

The model features nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for a soft landing and uses a TrailTack Green outsole with 3mm lugs to provide traction on gravel paths, in parks, and on light trails.

A breathable air mesh upper with a 3D-printed toe cap and mudguard adds durability without making the shoe feel overly rugged.

The two releases suggest Brooks is widening its trail offering to serve both competitive racers and everyday runners exploring off-road routes.

The Ghost Trail is available now at Brooks US, Brooks UK and Brooks EU for $150 / $135 / €150 (~AU$213).

Meanwhile, the Cascadia Elite is also available to buy at Brooks US, Brooks UK and Brooks EU for the recommended price of $275 / £225 / €250 (~AU$390).

Strength training often sits somewhere between “should do” and “don’t have time” for endurance athletes, but according to Coros athlete Alex Yee, it can make a measurable difference to performance.

The Olympic champion recently shared details of his gym routine, explaining how carefully planned strength sessions support his racing across all three triathlon disciplines.

Despite training more than 20 hours a week, Yee still dedicates time to the gym, typically scheduling strength training sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, with plyometric drills and technique work on other days.

And his goal isn’t simply to build muscle, but to improve efficiency across swim, bike and run.

“Everything we do always comes back to the same question: will this make me a better triathlete?” Yee explains.

Even if you aren't planning on becoming the next triathlon Olympic champion, the benefits of strength work are particularly clear for endurance athletes, runners included.

Yee focuses on developing lower-leg stiffness, core stability and explosive power, all factors linked to improved running economy and reduced injury risk.

Data from his training between the London and Valencia Marathons, which he ran in 2:11:08 and 2:06:38, respectively, suggested that the added strength work contributed to measurable performance improvements.

Small details, big performance gains

Yee’s programme includes a mixture of plyometric exercises, single-leg strength work and core stability drills designed to translate directly to endurance performance.

Among the movements he uses are slant-board calf isometric holds, lateral medicine-ball bounds, and box-to-box jumps, all aimed at improving fast ground contact and explosive power.

Traditional strength exercises such as Bulgarian split squats, seated calf raises, and glute-hamstring raises help build resilience in key running muscles.

Upper-body work also plays a role, with single-arm cable pulldowns targeting the muscles used in the swim stroke, while barbell rollouts reinforce the core stability required across all three disciplines.

Why endurance athletes shouldn’t skip the gym

For Yee, the biggest takeaway is that strength training isn’t optional once athletes reach a certain level of fitness.

“As you get faster and fitter, your form, efficiency and mechanics become essential,” he says. “If you want to continue to develop, strength training should be a vital component.”

The principle applies just as much to runners as it does to triathletes. By improving power, stiffness and stability, targeted strength work can help endurance athletes run more efficiently and stay injury-free over longer training cycles.

Yee’s message of consistency and attention to detail matters. Even small improvements in strength can translate into meaningful gains on race day.

See Alex's full workout at Coros.

The North Face has introduced the Altamesa 500 V2, a max-cushion trail running shoe built around what the brand describes as its lightest midsole technology to date.

The original Altamesa 500 flew slightly under the radar compared with big-name max-cushion trail shoes from Hoka or Brooks, but reviewers praised its comfort-focused ride and durable build for long training runs.

This makes the brand's decision to include its brand-new foam in the second iteration of the shoes slightly confusing (but not unheard of).

The Altamesa 500 V2 uses The North Face’s DREAM nitrogen-infused TPU foam midsole, designed to deliver soft impact absorption while maintaining responsive rebound during longer runs.

The shoe features a 36mm heel stack with a 6mm drop, placing it firmly in the high-stack comfort category that has become increasingly popular among trail runners tackling longer distances.

A wider underfoot platform is designed to provide inherent stability through geometry, helping keep you balanced when the terrain becomes uneven.

The devil in the details

The Altamesa 500 V2 uses a Surface CTRL SC2 rubber outsole with 4mm lugs, offering grip on mixed ground, from gravel paths to moderate trails.

The upper is constructed from a lightweight engineered mesh with zonal reinforcements for durability, while additional details such as serrated racing laces, dual midfoot webbing and stay-in-place tongue wings aim to keep the foot securely locked in during longer efforts.

Despite the generous cushioning, the shoe remains relatively lightweight for the category, weighing around 277g per shoe.

The design positions it as a daily trail trainer intended for runners stacking up comfortable mileage rather than chasing podium finishes.

On the sustainability front, The North Face does not highlight specific environmental claims for the Altamesa 500 V2 in its main product description.

However, previous versions of the Altamesa line have incorporated engineered mesh uppers made with recycled materials, indicating that the brand has experimented with lower-impact materials in this category before.

The Altamesa 500 V2 is available now through The North Face UK, The North Face US, and The North Face EU, with UK pricing set at £135 / $170 / €150 (~AU$238).

Adidas may be on the verge of another technological leap in running shoes.

Speaking during the company’s full-year 2025 results presentation, CEO Bjørn Gulden revealed that the brand is “very, very close” to bringing a new type of running footwear to market, performance shoes made using additive manufacturing.

“We are very, very close to actually launching performance shoes that are printed.”

While Gulden did not reveal specific details about the upcoming models, the comment hints at Adidas exploring advanced production methods that could reshape how performance footwear is made.

The company has already experimented with 3D-printed midsoles through projects such as Futurecraft, but this appears to signal something closer to large-scale performance releases.

The announcement follows On’s recent expansion of its LightSpray production in Busan, South Korea, where a second factory has added dozens of robots and significantly increased global capacity.

Meanwhile, Adidas’ running category is enjoying a significant resurgence.

According to the company’s results, running was one of Adidas’ fastest-growing categories in 2025, with revenue growth approaching 30%.

Gulden said the brand has spent the last few years rebuilding credibility in performance running by signing athletes and investing heavily in shoe innovation.

According to the brand, Adidas athletes claimed more than half of the major marathon wins last year, and the brand says it achieved podium finishes across all six World Marathon Majors.

Much of the momentum comes from the Adizero franchise, which has become Adidas’ flagship performance running lineup.

Shoes such as the Adios Pro Evo 2 and Adios Pro 4 have secured multiple marathon victories, while everyday models like the Adizero SL and Supernova have helped broaden the brand’s appeal among recreational runners.

The Adizero SL in particular has been a major commercial success. Gulden said the shoe’s sales volume is approaching 10 million pairs globally, making it one of the most widely worn running shoes on the market.

Adidas is also expanding its technology platform beyond racing models, including the Adidas Hyperboost Edge, featuring the new Hyperboost Pro, a new midsole foam designed to deliver the comfort of the original Boost cushioning at a significantly lighter weight.

Additionally, the company highlighted progress on sustainability, noting that 60% of the materials used in its products and packaging are now recycled or sustainably sourced.

Adidas added that it has cut its carbon intensity by 9% since 2022 as it continues to overhaul its supply chain.

Combined with experimental manufacturing methods and continued development of its Adizero racing lineup, Adidas appears determined to strengthen its position in one of the most competitive categories in sports footwear.

Arc’teryx has introduced the Sylan 2, the next generation of its fast trail running shoe designed for high-speed movement across technical mountain terrain.

The updated model builds on the original Sylan, part of Arc’teryx’s first footwear collection designed entirely by its in-house team, with a lighter construction, a redesigned upper and a more responsive midsole setup that now includes a carbon-fibre plate for extra propulsion and stability.

According to the company, athlete feedback played a key role in shaping the update, with the brand focusing on improving stability and confidence at speed while preserving the energetic ride that made the original shoe popular among mountain runners.

“Since introducing the Sylan two years ago, our athletes have been telling us how fast they feel, but they wanted more confidence with speed,” said Chris Pope, Footwear Design Director at Arc’teryx.

“With Sylan 2, we refined every element to deliver even greater performance – it’s lighter, more propulsive and more stable to support high-output days in technical mountain terrain.”

A faster, more propulsive platform

The Sylan 2 introduces a redesigned midsole built around supercritical foam, a material increasingly common in road running shoes thanks to its lightweight and energetic feel.

Nike’s Alphafly 3, Adidas’ Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, ASICS’ Metaspeed Sky Paris and Saucony’s Endorphin Elite all rely on versions of the same supercritical foam technology.

Arc’teryx pairs the foam with a carbon-fibre composite plate, designed to improve propulsion and add torsional stability on uneven terrain.

The shoe retains its rocker geometry to promote a quick toe-off, while the heel has been reshaped to improve stability during descents and technical sections.

The changes help the new model shed around 20 grams compared to its predecessor, while also improving energy return and efficiency on longer efforts.

New upper and refined traction

Up top, the Sylan 2 switches from a knit construction to an engineered woven jacquard upper, designed to improve lockdown and ventilation during high-output runs.

The material also incorporates reinforced fibres and TPU overlays for added durability and protection on rocky terrain.

Earlier Sylan models used uppers woven with recycled polyester fibres, although Arc’teryx hasn’t highlighted recycled materials in the Sylan 2 launch information.

Underfoot, the shoe keeps the Vibram Megagrip outsole with LITEBASE technology, a combination commonly used in performance trail footwear to reduce weight while maintaining durability.

Arc’teryx has updated the lug design with a multi-height stepped pattern, which aims to improve traction on both wet and dry surfaces while shedding mud more effectively.

According to Arc’teryx athlete Martin Kern, the shoe manages to blend durability and speed in a way that’s uncommon for aggressive trail footwear.

“What really blows me away is that rugged, tank-like durability packed into such a fast, snappy shoe,” Kern said. “Usually you have to choose between a tough shoe and a quick one, but the Sylan 2 breaks the mould.”

Stack height sits at 32mm in the heel and 26mm in the forefoot, producing a 6mm drop that places the shoe firmly in the modern high-stack trail category.

The Arc’teryx Sylan 2 launches 5 March at Arc’teryx UK, Arc'teryx US, and Arc'teryx EU, retailing for £200 / $220 / €220 (~AU$314).

As we emerge from the depths of winter, you may be reaching for your reflective vest less frequently, but it remains an essential piece of running kit. Night runs, darker days, and early-morning outings all require reflective gear you can trust.

I like to get out before the sun rises, even during the summer months, and as most of my runs are in an urban setting, I want to feel confident that cars and bikes are spotting me from a distance.

While safety is paramount, style, comfort and storage are also important. I want to be seen, but I don’t want a vest that disrupts my natural movement, chafes, or feels uncomfortable.

Storage is a big plus on longer runs and – if you’ll forgive my vanity – I’m definitely not aiming for a high-vis aesthetic that makes me look like a lollipop lady.

I set out to find reflective running vests that met all four criteria, testing them in real running conditions to see which pipped it to the post.

Best overall

Silva Strive Fly Reflective Vest

If you want a reflective running vest that excels across all the key criteria, the Strive Fly Reflective is a fine investment, despite it being the most expensive on test here. It’s the sister product to Silva’s well-regarded, super-light Strive Fly Vest and offers the same features, albeit 3g heavier, but with added reflective panels, for the same price.

Swedish brand Silva designs products built to survive Scandinavia’s challenging conditions. While I wasn’t testing the Strive Fly Reflective Vest in the Arctic, I did head out on several blustery, rain-soaked runs to see how it handled British wind and weather.

It’s impressively light (123g, XS) with a snug, comfortable fit. The three-point fastening system is fuss-free and flexible, sitting comfortably over bulky winter layers. Even on the windiest outings, I barely noticed I was wearing it. No flapping, no rubbing, no fuss.

Storage is generous, with eight pockets of varying sizes providing more than enough space for essentials if you’re heading out for a few hours. A handy ‘hidden’ zipped front pocket easily fits an iPhone 11. There are also attachment points for running poles and an integrated safety whistle for emergencies.

This vest earns top marks for comfort and style, and it blends seamlessly with my running wardrobe. But crucially, does it deliver on visibility? In daylight, it looks understated. Step into the dark, however, and the reflective triangle pattern comes alive, ensuring you glow brightly and remain reassuringly visible on urban runs.

Buy at Silva UK for £69.95

Best for maximum visibility

Proviz360 Fully Reflective Running X Vest

When it’s time to bring out the big guns and wear a vest that will light you up like a beacon, the Proviz360 Reflective Running Vest is a go-to for runners and cyclists alike.

It’s popular thanks to the magical reflective properties of the patented Proviz360 textile, which means that when light hits it, you glow brightly. The secret lies in millions of tiny glass beads embedded in the material, which bounce light back toward its source, keeping you clearly visible even in the darkest conditions.

This one-size-fits-all unisex vest goes over the head and fastens at the sides with circular Velcro pads. Simple, yes, but it works perfectly, and while Proviz won’t win any awards for design, it saves you the hassle of fiddling with toggles or complicated fasteners.

The vest is lightweight, and I was able to fold it down easily into a side pocket once my run stretched from dawn into daylight, and it was no longer needed.

It’s surprisingly flexible and worked well over both my thickest running jacket and a light base layer. It didn’t flap noticeably, although I could hear a little movement when worn over the lighter outfit, where it had more space to shift.

There are no pockets or storage, so you’ll need to wear it over a running belt if you’re carrying supplies. But rest assured, this vest is designed to do one thing exceptionally well: reflect light in the dark. If you’re happy to sacrifice storage and style for pure visibility, this workhorse is a solid choice.

Buy at Proviz UK for £24.99

Best for trail and long-distance runs

Kiprun RACE Trail Running Competition 5L Vest

On Sunday mornings, I’ll often head out for a longer run than my midweek pre-work outings. I’ll venture into local woodlands or along the cycle path that connects Bristol and Bath, aiming to be out for at least a couple of hours.

While I may start in the dark, most of these longer runs are spent in morning light, so I need a vest that balances reflective benefits with enough storage to carry the essentials while clocking up the kilometres.

The Kiprun RACE Trail Running Competition Vest was designed in collaboration with the Kiprun Women’s Team, which includes British long-distance runner and European U23 champion Alice Goodall, so this endorsement has weight. On the other hand, the vest is light, weighing just 190 g, and the fit is snug – in fact, a little too snug, so be aware that this product runs small.

Once on, the vest stayed firmly in place — no rising, shifting, or bouncing. The storage is impressive for such a lightweight vest, with a total of 10 pockets.

You could easily spend the day in this vest, as it can carry two 500 ml water bottles, four pockets for food and waste, a large pocket at the back for extra layers, plus a zipped pocket for valuables and phone (my iPhone 11 was a comfortable fit).

The reflective features are arranged in zones rather than panels, which is a little limited but provides perfectly adequate visibility for off-road runs.

Buy at Decathlon UK for £39.99

Verdict

Which vest is best for you depends on where you run, the distances you cover, and whether style matters. All of the vests above excel in at least one of these categories.

If reflective performance is your top priority, then a tip of the hat goes to Proviz360, which outclasses the competition with its award-winning material.

If you’re looking for a vest that combines good reflectivity, outstanding comfort, and enough storage to see you through a two-hour run, then hands down the prize goes to Silva’s Strive Fly Reflective Vest.

Adidas has announced the Hyperboost Edge, a new lightweight “super-trainer” designed to bring high levels of cushioning and energy return to everyday running.

Positioned as the brand’s first lightweight non-plated super-trainer, the running shoe combines a high-stack midsole with a stripped-back construction intended to create a naturally responsive ride without relying on stiffening elements or carbon plates.

The high-stack trainer introduces Hyperboost Pro foam, described as a new high-performance midsole foam designed to deliver maximum cushioning and high energy return for daily training.

It sits inside a bold 45mm rearfoot stack with a 6mm drop, delivering maximum cushioning while keeping the overall weight down to just 255 grams.

According to Adidas, the new material was developed through laboratory testing and consumer research conducted with the University of Cologne.

In a study involving 60 runners, the Hyperboost Edge outperformed participants’ current footwear across several metrics, with 73% preferring its energy return and 77% reporting softer cushioning.

A super-trainer built for daily miles

While the midsole provides the headline innovation, the rest of the shoe has been designed to support high-mileage training.

The PRIMEWEAVE upper, found in shoes such as the Adidas 4DFWD 2, uses a lightweight woven construction to deliver soft comfort and secure lockdown, while integrated heel pods add extra cushioning and stability around the rearfoot.

Underfoot, the shoe uses a newly developed LIGHTTRAXION outsole inspired by Adidas’ race shoes, including the Adizero Adios Pro 4.

The full-length traction layer sits on a thinner base to reduce weight while still offering grip and durability across varied road conditions.

The Hyperboost Edge also introduces a new visual identity for Adidas running footwear.

The design also places Adidas’ iconic three stripes directly on the stacked midsole, drawing attention to the Hyperboost Pro technology underfoot

Patrick Nava, general manager of Adidas Running, described the shoe as the start of a broader shift for the brand’s performance lineup.

“Hyperboost Edge is where the power of three comes to life: cushioning, energy and lightness combined seamlessly in one shoe,” he said.

“By harnessing these elements without compromise, we’ve created a super-trainer that feels light on foot, responsive through every stride and cushioned under impact.”

The Adidas Hyperboost Edge launches globally on 17 March 2026 in a red colourway at Adidas Running, with additional colourways arriving from 1 May, and pricing is set at €200 / $200 (~£173 / AU$330).

Hoka has unveiled the Mach 7, the latest evolution of its lightweight Mach franchise, designed to deliver everyday speed for road runners.

The new model builds on the formula that made its predecessor popular with tempo runners and daily trainers alike.

The brand recently said it will double down on its premium running shoes, and the new launch fits in that category perfectly.

That said, the company certainly isn't reinventing the franchise with the Mach 7.

With its latest Mach iteration, Hoka has focused on refining key areas such as weight, breathability and fit while maintaining the responsive ride that defines the Mach series.

The Mach 7 continues the brand’s use of a creel jacquard upper, a breathable woven material already seen on recent Mach models, designed to keep the shoe lightweight while improving ventilation and midfoot hold.

The company says the engineered material allows airflow in high-heat zones while maintaining structure where runners need support.

The upper is paired with an internal gusset system that helps secure the midfoot and create a more locked-in feel during faster efforts.

Hoka has also refined the tongue design to better complement the shoe’s speed-focused identity, aiming to provide a more streamlined fit when picking up the pace.

Underfoot, the Mach 7 continues to use super-critically foamed EVA, the energetic midsole compound that gives the shoe its snappy ride.

The setup balances cushioning with responsiveness, making it suitable for everything from steady training runs to quicker sessions.

Durability and traction are handled by a combination of sticky rubber in the forefoot and Durabrasion rubber in the heel.

This targeted approach keeps the shoe lightweight while reinforcing the areas that see the most wear.

Despite the added refinements, the Mach 7 remains a lightweight option within Hoka’s road running lineup.

The shoe weighs 7.15oz in a women’s size 8 and 8.37oz in a men’s size 10, with a 5mm heel-to-toe drop.

The Hoka Mach 7 launches on 5 March and will be available via Hoka UK, Hoka EU, Hoka US, Hoka retail stores, and selected retail partners for £140 / €160 / $145.

Nike ACG chose an unusual way to debut its latest experimental footwear concept.

From the brand that brought you a fully redesigned train in Milan, Nike's outdoor-focused division staged a dramatic “Man vs Machine” stunt at the FAT International Ice Race in Big Sky, Montana.

ACG Racing Department athlete Liam Meirow took on the challenge, sprinting across the icy track wearing a prototype version of Nike’s Ultrafly trail running shoe.

His opponent wasn’t another runner but a Porsche tackling the same frozen course, turning the debut into a literal man-versus-machine showdown.

The shoe itself was a one-off modification created specifically for the event.

Based on the ACG Ultrafly platform, the prototype featured aggressive metal spikes embedded in the outsole, designed to bite into ice and provide traction on slippery surfaces.

The setup allowed Meirow to run confidently across terrain that would normally be almost impossible to grip with standard trail footwear.

The stunt formed part of Nike ACG’s presence at the FAT International Ice Race, a two-day motorsport and car culture gathering founded by entrepreneur Ferdi Porsche.

The event brings together high-performance vehicles, racing talent and automotive enthusiasts on a frozen course, making it one of the most visually striking winter motorsport events in the US.

ACG’s installation at the event, dubbed Basecamp, showcased a mix of experimental footwear and winter-ready apparel, including the new Therma-FIT Air Milano jacket.

Nike also created a small capsule collection in collaboration with FAT International, comprising a jacket, hoodie, and T-shirt, produced exclusively for event participants and insiders.

While the spiked Ultrafly used in the race isn’t a commercial product, at least for now, the stunt highlights how Nike continues to use ACG as a platform for experimentation and storytelling, often blending outdoor performance with unexpected cultural spaces.

From alpine installations to ice-race stunts, the brand’s outdoor arm seems increasingly comfortable pushing beyond traditional trail running launches.

And in this case, the debut involved a frozen racetrack, a prototype running shoe and a Porsche.

FAT International’s own event-exclusive merchandise and select winter-ready apparel pieces are now available online for those who missed the event.

You can shop all ACG gear, including the Lava Loft jacket, at Nike ACG.

Running is performance, but it also provides community and, in some cases, identity.

Now, with the SS26 Adidas x Labrum Adizero collection, running is also a cultural expression.

The sports giant has teamed up with London-based brand Labrum to remix its Adizero franchise with storytelling pulled from founder Foday Dumbuya’s West African heritage, creating a capsule that resonates both on and off the run.

Performance first, storytelling layered in

The range is centred around the fan-favourite Adizero Evo SL, reimagined through Labrum’s visual language and cultural motifs.

The silhouette, already known for its lightweight construction and speed-oriented engineering, now carries graphic references inspired by cowrie shells and West African architectural ventilation patterns, turning performance footwear into something deeply personal.

Alongside the running shoes, the capsule includes ultra-light running jackets, shorts, singlets, crop tops and accessories that lean into the same aesthetic language.

Textiles and prints nod to symbolic elements such as journey, protection and community, bringing an expressive spin to the everyday training kit.

From the runway to race season

"This collaboration is for the runners who carry culture on their backs, stories in their steps, and freedom in their stride," Labrum Founder and Creative Director Foday Dumbuya said about the collection.

"I hope this collection goes beyond running - connecting people to their own journeys and reminding them that movement itself can be a powerful form of expression."

The partnership was first teased on the runway during LABRUM’s Autumn/Winter 2026 London Fashion Week show, where the brand’s overarching theme of Freedom of Movement was on full display.

With this release, Adidas is leaning into the idea that what we wear while pushing our physical boundaries can also speak to who we are, where we come from, and where we’re going, an idea that resonates with many runners.

The Adidas x LABRUM SS26 Adizero collection drops on 3 March 2026 via Adidas UK, Labrum London and selected retailers, with prices from £7 (~$9 / €8 / AU$13).

On is bringing its most futuristic manufacturing process into the spotlight with the launch of the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, a high-cushion super trainer that doubles as proof the brand’s robotic production ambitions are becoming reality.

The running shoe, which pairs the Cloudmonster franchise’s maximal cushioning with a laceless, spray-on upper, arrives alongside a major expansion of On’s automated manufacturing footprint.

The company recently opened a second LightSpray production facility near Busan, South Korea, adding dozens of robots and boosting global capacity many times over.

The expansion is a clear signal that LightSpray is moving from experimental runs to scalable output, paving the way for the technology to appear in more mainstream models over the next few years.

“The opening of our second LightSpray™ factory is a monumental milestone for us in mastering this advanced manufacturing process,” On Co-Founder Caspar Coppetti said about the new launch.

“The beauty of LightSpray is that we can precisely program each robot, whether in Zurich or Busan, to execute precisely choreographed movements to craft each shoe’s unique look and feel,” added On’s Chief Innovation Officer, Scott Maguire.

LightSpray?

LightSpray is On’s attempt to rethink how running shoe uppers are made.

Instead of cutting and stitching multiple panels, robotic arms spray a continuous filament around a last to create a seamless upper in minutes, a process that reduces parts and waste and simplifies manufacturing.

With automation handling most of the assembly, On can ramp production far more efficiently than with traditional methods, opening the door for the tech to move from experimental “halo” shoes into everyday trainers like the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper.

The result is a shoe that still feels unmistakably high-end, ultra-light, highly cushioned, and built around Helion HF super foam, but also represents something bigger than just another performance release.

If On succeeds in scaling LightSpray as planned, the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper may be remembered less as a single product launch and more as the moment when robot-built running shoes began to look like a realistic future for the wider market.

The shoes will be available at On US and On retail stores in North America on 5 March 2026 for the recommended price of $280. Full global launch is expected on 16 April 2026.

The LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is listed at On UK, On EU and On AU for £270 / €280 / AU$380.

Kiprun is stepping firmly into the performance-racing spotlight with the launch of the Kipstorm Elite, a carbon-plated running shoe the brand says is its fastest to date, and one designed to compete with the biggest names in the super-shoe space.

Arriving a year after the KD900X LD+ helped fuel elite performances, the new model builds on that platform with a focus on improved running economy, greater comfort, and a more refined fit.

According to Kiprun, the shoe was developed through extensive athlete testing, including blind trials and lab-based running-economy assessments, alongside feedback from elite runners such as Paul Chelimo and Edward Cheserek.

Florian Gaborit, Footwear Engineer at Kiprun, described the shoe as “an elite racing shoe built for record-breaking wins, yet with enough comfort for every runner to chase their finish line,” adding that the team worked to improve dynamism, comfort, and fit without sacrificing efficiency.

Built to go further, faster

The Kipstorm Elite is built on a dual-density midsole, paired with an A-TPU structural layer and a PEBA insert positioned above the carbon plate.

The idea is to balance stability with a high-energy toe-off, a setup Kiprun claims delivers a 13% boost in perceived dynamism compared to its predecessor while also trimming weight.

The redesigned carbon plate, featuring a new lateral extension, is engineered to increase stiffness and reduce energy loss through the forefoot, while a seamless 3D knit upper aims to provide a more precise, locked-in fit over marathon distances.

Weighing in at 216g (men’s EU 42), the shoe matches the durability of the KD900X LD+ but is tuned for smoother transitions thanks to an updated heel geometry and a more cushioned sockliner.

Elite ambitions, broader appeal

Kiprun says every elite tester preferred the new model over the previous generation, with all confirming they would race in it during the 2026 season.

At £180 (~$243 / €206 / AU$343), the Kipstorm Elite lands well below many flagship carbon racers, positioning it as a value-focused alternative for marathoners chasing fast times without the usual super-shoe premium.

The Kipstorm Elite is available now at Decathlon UK.

It’s only been two months, but 2026 is already shaping up to be a pivotal year for running shoes. Brands are trampling over each other to launch new models, debut fresh tech and put a new spin on their core franchises.

I’ve been reporting on running shoes for the past seven years and tested hundreds of pairs, so I’d like to think I have a decent sense of where performance footwear is heading. This will show my age more than I’d like, but I started racing when “racing flats” meant less than 20mm of foam underfoot.

Running shoes never stand still, yet the last couple of years have felt relatively quiet on the innovation front. Nike has largely stuck with ZoomX, while much of the industry followed the same playbook, rolling out variations of the now-familiar high-stack, high-energy-return formula.

That’s starting to change. In 2026, established brands are experimenting again, and the ripple effect is already visible across the market. We’re only a few weeks in, yet I’ve seen some of the most interesting launches of the past two years.

If the pace holds, this could be one of the most exciting years for runners in a long time. Here are three of the standout shoe launches so far, from Brooks, Nike and Hoka.

More of the same?

Of course, there have been more than just three running shoe launches this year, and some of them are also memorable. Saucony added another model to its Endorphin line, Azura (£140, Saucony), a high-performance daily trainer designed to deliver that familiar Endorphin “fast feeling” without the stiffness, aggression or recovery penalty that comes with plates.

There is also Hoka's Cielo X1 3.0 (£250, Hoka), the company's third take on the ultimate 'super shoe'. It sits at the top of Hoka’s performance lineup, above the Rocket X 3 and Mach X 3, with the update focusing on the hyper-propulsive carbon fibre plate, working alongside a refined version of the brand’s MetaRocker geometry.

Adidas Terrex created a more affordable version of the brutish Agravic Speed Ultra 2. The Agravic TT (£160, Adidas Terrex) shifts the focus toward stability, security, and protection instead of pure downhill speed. The midsole features a dual-layer construction combining Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike+, the same compounds propelling the brand's fastest shoes.

ASICS recently unveiled the third iteration of its fan-favourite Superblast franchise, introducing METASPEED tech to everyday miles. The Superblast 3 (£200, ASICS) introduces FF LEAP foam, featured in the brand's ultralight shoes, the METASPEED RAY, which ASICS describes as its lightest and most energetic midsole compound to date.

Finally, Altra's Experience Flow 3 (£130, Altra) is positioned as a philosophical counterpoint to modern “super shoes” such as the Nike Alphafly and Adidas Adizero Evo. With its 4mm drop and foot-shaped toe box, the shoes are said to provide a more natural running experience than max-cushion models.

New Balance has expanded its running shoe lineup with the launch of a brand-new franchise, the Ellipse, a comfort-focused daily trainer designed to suit everyone from beginners to seasoned runners ticking off recovery miles.

Positioned as a shoe that encourages runners to “lose track of time,” the Ellipse leans into a more mindful, less metrics-driven approach to running.

The brand says the model is built to make everyday miles feel easier and more enjoyable, combining plush cushioning with a geometry aimed at reducing strain on the body.

The Ellipse uses the same Fresh Foam X midsole powering the 1080 line, tuned to deliver a softer, bouncier ride while maintaining a relatively lightweight build.

A rockered profile helps smooth transitions through the stride, while a breathable engineered-mesh upper, a cushioned tongue, and stretch laces round out the comfort-first package.

Designed to feel easy from the first step

According to Kevin FitzPatrick, Global Vice President of Running at New Balance, the goal was to create a shoe that feels approachable and easy to run in, no matter your experience level.

He says the Ellipse is designed to celebrate all types of runners by offering a cushioned ride that keeps things comfortable from start to finish.

The Ellipse sits on the new PLR-8 last, which appears to be a fresh addition to the brand’s lineup, with the 1080 built on the PL-8 last and the 880 on the SL-2.

The new running shoes feature an 8mm drop with a stack height of 37.8mm at the heel and 29.9mm at the forefoot.

Weight comes in at 274g for a men’s size 9.5 and 218g for a women’s size 7, putting it squarely in daily-trainer territory.

The New Balance Ellipse is set to launch on 5 March 2026 via New Balance retail stores and online, with a suggested retail price of £130 (~$175 / €149 / AU$247).