There are well over 100 marathons in the UK alone in one year, which means that there's always a long-distance run to train for.

While there are myriad things you have to think about when training for a marathon — head to T3's marathon tips guide for more information on this — the absolute basics is getting your trainers right.

Here we have hand-picked 8 of the best marathon trainers around. These are the running shoes that will got the distance, even when you feel like giving up...

1. BROOKS HYPERION ELITE 5

These carbon-plate road racing shoes have been developed with professional athletes to make their marathon times faster. How well they work for you depends on the way your feet land on the ground, but as they're very light (195g each) and have stacked soles that hit the max legal height for road racing, they're a race-day treat.

2. NEW BALANCE 1080V15

NB's classic running shoe has had a redesign to its upper, and sports a new midsole made from Infinion instead of FreshFoam. There's 2mm more depth in the sole, but the 6mm drop remains, and it's still recognisably the 1080.

3. ALTRA EXPERIENCE FLOW 3

Altra's signature toe box helps with a natural running gait, allowing the foot room to spread, and the Flow 3s' low (4mm) drop between heel and forefoot keeps the shoe comfortable over long road-running miles. The Ego P35 foam in the midsole keeps them soft underfoot, and at 255g per shoe they feel light enough to wear every day.

4. SALOMON S/LAB PHANTASM 3

They may look like something you'd wear to cut down on drag while cycling, but these lightweight (198g) aerodynamically optimised shoes with a full-length carbon plate aim to give you the edge over the competition when road-racing using only your feet. The single-layer engineered mesh upper with a flexible gaiter hides traditional laces, and offers a snug fit, and for competitive racers will provide a feeling of high-tech superiority and the chance of extra speed.

5. ASICS NOVABLAST 5

These fan favourites are available in a riot of colours, and Asics is so proud of the bouncy energy-return action that it claims it was inspired by a trampoline. They might not boing you quite that far into the air, but the FF Blast Max foam and 79% recycled upper make this a lightweight (225g) running option that will put a spring in your step.

6. ADIDAS ADIZERO EVO SL

Adidas' versatile racing shoe is priced like your favourite fashion trainers, but they certainly don't perform like them. There's no carbon plate here, just Lightstrike Pro foam in the midsole, but they're responsive and well-cushioned for shock absorption, and returns energy better than some pricier shoes.

7. NIKE ALPHAFLY 3

“Leave your old personal records in the dust” says Nike, and maybe you will. The full-length carbon plate and ZoomX foam midsole on the lightest Alphafly shoes yet (218g) are joined by Zoom Air units to propel you forward to the finish line.

8. SAUCONY ENDORPHIN SPEED 5

Using a nylon plate rather than a carbon one, these 8mmdrop road racing shoes may be positioning themselves as fast training options, so you can save the more expensive footwear for race day. Or you may look at features like the engineered mesh upper and full-length sole groove for smooth transitions, and wear them for everything.

Adidas has expanded its Hyperboost running range with the launch of the new Hyperboost Run, a daily training shoe that brings the franchise's high-energy ride to a broader audience.

Set to launch on 1 August, the Hyperboost Run is designed as an all-round road shoe for runners who split their time between easy miles, faster sessions and everyday wear.

Adidas says the new model focuses on balancing comfort, responsiveness and versatility in a single package.

The Hyperboost Run sits below the Hyperboost Edge in Adidas' latest running shoe franchise.

While the Edge is positioned as the brand's lightweight "super-trainer" for longer, faster efforts, the Run takes the same design philosophy and adapts it into a more accessible daily trainer.

The new trainers feature the Hyperboost Pro midsole, a 38mm heel stack and a 6mm drop.

The brand says the lightweight foam is tuned to provide high energy return while maintaining the cushioning needed for everyday mileage.

The Hyperboost Run also features a lightweight Primeweave engineered mesh upper designed to improve breathability and comfort during longer runs.

Underfoot, Adidas combines its LIGHTTRAXION outsole with Continental rubber pods at the forefoot to boost grip without adding weight.

The shoe also adopts a wider platform and anatomically shaped 3D-printed heel elements to improve stability.

The new trainer weighs 247g (UK men's 8.5), putting it firmly in the lightweight daily trainer category.

Its sculpted midsole and oversized Three Stripes also give it a noticeably more lifestyle-inspired look than many traditional mileage shoes, suggesting Adidas is targeting runners who want one pair to cover training sessions and day-to-day wear.

Alongside the new shoe, Adidas is also introducing fresh colourways for the Hyperboost Edge, continuing its push to establish Hyperboost as one of the brand's flagship cushioning platforms.

The Adidas Hyperboost Run launches globally on 1 August, priced at €170 at Adidas EU. UK, US and AU pricing has yet to be confirmed.

New Balance has unveiled two high-performance running shoes designed to take runners from speedy training sessions through to marathon race day.

The new SuperComp Rebel v1 is arguably the more surprising arrival, essentially fusing the FuelCell Rebel and SuperComp Trainer lines into one high-speed daily trainer.

New Balance says it has created a plated, high-stack training shoe intended to bring “race-day energy” to everyday running.

It is joined by the SuperComp Elite v6, the latest generation of New Balance’s flagship carbon-plated racing shoe and the successor to the T3 Awards-winner FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5.

New Balance has dropped FuelCell from both product names, possibly because the shoes introduce the brand’s new Infinion midsole foam.

The company claims the new compound is designed to provide responsive cushioning and sustained energy return.

Rebel with a plate

The SuperComp Rebel v1 combines Infinion foam with a carbon-infused Pebax propulsion plate.

New Balance says the plate’s shape, material and placement have been engineered to produce a responsive, energetic ride suitable for tempo sessions, faster training runs and potentially racing.

A 40mm heel and 36mm forefoot give the Rebel a 4mm drop. The men’s version weighs a claimed 218g in a size 9.5, while the women’s model comes in at 174g in a size 7.

FANTOMFIT reinforcement locks down the midfoot and heel without adding the weight of a more traditionally structured upper.

At £190, it also sits below New Balance’s premium competition shoe while retaining some of its race-inspired technology.

The SuperComp Elite v6 adopts the lightest version of Infinion foam and a redesigned carbon-fibre plate intended to increase stiffness and propulsion over marathon distances.

Despite retaining a race-legal 40mm heel stack, it weighs just 190g for men and 155g for women.

Its 8mm drop results from a 40mm heel and 32mm forefoot, while a translucent mesh upper reinforced with FANTOMFIT provides a lightweight but secure fit.

New Balance developed the shoe with input from athletes including Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee and American marathon record holder Emily Sisson.

"The innovation in this update raises the bar for race-day footwear," added Sisson when asked about the new shoes.

Yee ran his 2:06:38 marathon personal best in the Elite v5 at the 2025 Valencia Marathon and says the updated v6 feels “even lighter and faster”.

The New Balance SuperComp Elite v6 will launch on 6 August for £230 (~$310 / €271 / AU$441), followed by the SuperComp Rebel v1 on 20 August for £190 (~$255 / €224 / AU$364).

Both shoes will be available through New Balance stores and the brand’s website.

Altra is stepping up its pursuit of trail-running shoe heavyweights Hoka and Salomon with the Olympus 275 HiLo, a heavily cushioned endurance shoe designed to keep moving over technical terrain long after darkness falls.

The new model builds on the Olympus 275, combining a 33mm stack of Altra EGO Max cushioning with a technical MATRYX upper and a Vibram Megagrip outsole.

Despite the substantial amount of foam underfoot, Altra retains the zero-drop geometry for which it is best known, placing the heel and forefoot at the same height.

According to the brand, the updated EGO Max midsole is 15% lighter and 10% softer than the previous version.

The men’s shoe weighs 10.5oz (298g), while the women’s model comes in at 8.8oz (249g).

The Olympus 275 HiLo also uses Altra’s Original FootShape fit, the roomiest of the brand’s three toe-box profiles.

This provides additional space around the toes and through the midfoot, allowing the foot to spread more naturally on long runs.

A tale of one mountain

Perhaps the most distinctive feature is the one-piece woven MATRYX upper, the same as that used in the Olympus 275, launched last year.

The lightweight material incorporates Kevlar yarns to increase durability without adding excessive weight.

Better still, the integrated, sock-like scree sleeve wraps around the ankle to keep stones and trail debris out of the shoe.

Underneath, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with TractionLug technology provides full-length coverage.

The small textured elements moulded into the sides of the main lugs are intended to increase the available surface area, improving traction on wet and dry ground.

The shoes are reminiscent of Hoka's Tecton X 3 with their flared heel and gaitered ankle construction.

The launch arrives as Altra continues to gain ground within owner VF Corporation’s portfolio.

The Utah-born company recorded growth of more than 35% in VF’s 2025 financial reporting, making it the group’s fastest-growing brand at the time and comfortably outpacing stablemates The North Face and Timberland.

The Olympus 275 HiLo launched on 15 July and is available to buy now at Altra UK, Altra US and Altra EU for £175 / $200 / €200 (~AU$328). AU pricing and availability to be confirmed.

If you've admired the performance credentials of Adidas Terrex's flagship trail running shoes but baulked at the price, the brand has just launched a more attainable alternative.

The Agravic SL borrows key technology from the top-of-the-line Agravic Speed Ultra range and packages it into a versatile daily trail shoe that costs 30% less than the flagship racer.

The new shoes are designed as an all-rounder that can tackle everything from daily training runs and local woodland loops to technical mountain trails.

With it, the company is bringing premium technologies to runners who simply want a single shoe that can handle all their off-road adventures.

The Agravic SL features a full-length Lightstrike Pro midsole, the brand's lightweight, highly responsive foam that has become a hallmark of Adidas' fastest road and trail shoes.

It delivers the soft yet energetic ride that runners have come to expect from the brand's premium footwear.

Grip should be equally impressive, thanks to the full Continental Rubber outsole, which uses the tyre manufacturer's well-established rubber compound to provide dependable traction in both wet and dry conditions.

Combined with a lug pattern that looks aggressive enough for loose terrain without becoming overly cumbersome on fireroads or tarmac, the Agravic SL appears well suited to the increasingly popular "door-to-trail" style of running.

Race-day DNA, everyday miles

The rest of the shoe follows the same philosophy, with an engineered mesh upper with durable TPU overlays that aim to balance breathability with trail-ready protection.

Meanwhile, internal reinforcements and elastic tongue wings are designed to keep the foot securely locked in when the terrain becomes more technical.

Despite its generous cushioning, the Agravic SL tips the scales at just 279g.

Underfoot, runners get a 39mm heel stack, a 33mm forefoot stack, and a 6mm drop, giving the shoe a modern, highly cushioned platform built for long-distance comfort.

The Agravic SL is available now directly from Adidas Terrex in Cloud White / Core Black / Semi Impact Orange and Core Black/Grey Two/Core Black colourways for the recommended price of £140 in the UK, $160 in the US and €160 across Europe (~AU$262).

AU price and availability TBC.

HOKA has unveiled the Clifton 11, the latest version of one of the most recognisable daily running shoes on the market.

With the latest update, the brand has focused on enhancing comfort with a redesigned upper, an updated fit, and a softer underfoot feel.

HOKA has introduced a premium engineered jacquard knit upper for improved breathability and a more luxurious feel, alongside an updated ultrasoft sockliner designed to increase step-in comfort.

A new double lace-lock system promises a more secure fit, while reflective detailing improves visibility during early morning and evening runs.

"The Clifton has set the standard for daily trainers for over a decade, earning runners’ trust with HOKA’s signature cushioning and innovative design,” said Bekah Broe, Sr. Director of Performance Footwear at HOKA.

“With the Clifton 11, we have built on that legacy - refining the fit, upgrading the engineered mesh upper, and enhancing the sockliner - to deliver a smoother and effortlessly comfortable ride.”

The Clifton 11 arrives about 15 months after the Clifton 10, suggesting HOKA is confident it got the fundamentals right last time.

It's an approach that mirrors what we've seen from several major running brands recently, where evolutionary updates are increasingly favoured over wholesale redesigns, particularly for bestselling daily trainers.

Keeping the magic intact

If you've enjoyed previous Clifton models, the good news is that HOKA hasn't changed the fundamentals.

The Clifton 11 retains the compression-moulded EVA foam midsole, rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame and the brand's signature MetaRocker geometry, all designed to deliver the smooth heel-to-toe transition the series is known for.

It also sticks with an 8mm heel-to-toe drop and a high-stack platform, weighing 282.8g in a men's sample and 236.4g in a women's version.

The Clifton 11 will go head-to-head with established favourites such as the Brooks Ghost 18, ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28, Saucony Ride 19, New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 and Nike Pegasus 42.

While each shoe takes a slightly different approach to cushioning and ride feel, they're all designed to be versatile workhorses that handle everything from easy recovery runs to marathon training.

Priced at £140 / $155 / €165 / AU$280, the Clifton 11 undercuts several of those rivals while remaining firmly in the premium end of the market.

HOKA appears to be betting that incremental improvements to one of the industry's most recognisable running shoes will be enough to keep the Clifton among the best daily trainers money can buy.

The Clifton 11 is available now directly from HOKA and authorised retailers worldwide.

British performance eyewear brand SunGod has unveiled the Classics⁴ PRO, a new version of its bestselling lifestyle sunglasses, developed in collaboration with ultrarunning superstar Courtney Dauwalter.

SunGod has taken its popular Everyday Classics⁴ model and given it a significant performance overhaul.

The result is a pair of sunglasses that aims to bridge the gap between casual wear and serious trail running, offering improved stability without sacrificing the familiar silhouette.

According to SunGod, the biggest changes come from redesigned straight arm fins inspired by its wraparound Pace range.

Combined with new Grip-Lock hydrophilic rubber contact points, the updated frame is designed to stay securely in place during long runs and high-intensity efforts while remaining comfortable enough for all-day wear.

Everyday style, race-ready performance

The collaboration makes perfect sense given Dauwalter's long-standing preference for the original Classics⁴.

While many elite runners opt for aggressively styled performance eyewear, the American ultrarunner has become known for racing in SunGod's more casual-looking sunglasses.

The new PRO version keeps that understated aesthetic while adding features better suited to ultramarathon racing, including improved grip, enhanced stability and a lightweight 26g frame.

SunGod is also launching a limited-edition Courtney Dauwalter colourway.

The design features a cracked gold pattern inspired by what Dauwalter calls the "pain cave" – the difficult moments during races where she famously finds her greatest strength – paired with matching gold lenses.

The Classics⁴ PRO retains the features found across SunGod's range, including proprietary 8KO nylon lenses with 100% UVA and UVB protection.

The sunnies also feature Pop-Lock screwless hinges, interchangeable lenses, and an Infinite recycled frame that the company says has a 7x lower environmental impact than conventional virgin plastic.

Like all SunGod eyewear, the new model is backed by the company's lifetime guarantee.

The Classics⁴ PRO is available now at SunGod in six colourways, starting at £100 (~$134 / €117 / AU$192).

Polarised versions cost £130 (~$174 / €153 / AU$250), while the limited-edition Courtney Dauwalter model is priced from £110 (~$147 / €129 / AU$212).

Merrell has launched its most ambitious trail running shoe to date, and you only need to look at its unusual sculpted sole to see that the brand is trying something different.

The new MTL SpeedARC Peak is a carbon-plated racing shoe developed over five years through the Merrell Test Lab, with feedback gathered from the company’s elite athletes.

Merrell describes it as its most advanced running shoe yet, designed for podium attempts and personal bests over demanding trails.

Its most eye-catching feature is the two-part SpeedARC midsole, which looks more like a collection of individual cushioning pods than a conventional slab of foam.

Large cut-outs run along the shoe, separating sections of the midsole and leaving parts of its full-length Carbon FlexPlate visible from the outside.

It is said to combine the propulsion and efficiency normally associated with a carbon plate with enough flexibility for technical terrain.

Merrell pairs the plate with a dual-density mixture of FloatPro foam and PEBA-based racing foam, which promises energy return without making the shoe too rigid when runners need to change direction or negotiate uneven ground.

Carbon above, cut-outs below

The sole is just as unconventional underneath, with Merrell using a skeletal arrangement of Vibram Megagrip Elite rubber that leaves sections of the midsole and carbon plate exposed.

That saves weight while placing the rubber where grip is most important.

The outsole uses 4mm lugs and is intended to maintain traction on both wet and dry surfaces, although the exposed sections may raise durability concerns on particularly rocky routes.

The upper is made from Matryx, combining Kevlar threads with high-tenacity polyamide to create a lightweight, abrasion-resistant structure.

Other details include a padded collar, elastic lace keeper, breathable mesh lining and TPEE footbed.

Official specifications put the shoe at 305g per shoe, with a 30mm heel and 24mm forefoot stack, creating a 6mm drop.

The MTL SpeedARC Peak will be available in the US for $290, initially in a vivid “45th Anniversary” colourway.

European availability is currently listed for August, with an expected price of €290; Merrell has yet to confirm UK pricing or an exact UK release date.

[via PR Times, Outside]

On wants to turn London's running crews into racing teams with its latest global event

Swiss performance brand On is bringing its Squad Race series to London next week, transforming Tobacco Dock into a relay course where local running clubs will compete for a place in a global final in Los Angeles.

Running has become increasingly community-driven in recent years, with run clubs popping up in cities around the world.

On is tapping into that momentum with Squad Race, a relay competition designed to celebrate the crews and communities that have become such a defining part of modern running culture.

The London event takes place on 18 July at Yellow Park, Tobacco Dock, where four-person teams will race around a purpose-built spiral course in front of spectators.

The format puts teamwork at the centre of the action, with the winning squad earning the chance to represent London at the Squad Race World Final in Los Angeles this September.

More than just another running event

London is the latest stop on a global tour that began in Beijing earlier this year and has since travelled through cities including Barcelona, Rio de Janeiro, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo before concluding in California.

The series reflects On's growing investment in community-led running, bringing together grassroots crews and established clubs in a fast-paced competition that blends racing with festival-style experiences.

The event also doubles as a showcase for the new Cloudmonster 3, with participants able to test the latest version of On's max-cushioned running shoes throughout the day.

Alongside the racing, visitors can expect live music, food, customisation stations and post-race celebrations, reinforcing the brand's aim of creating an event that's as much about the wider running community as it is about crossing the finish line first.

You can find out more about the Squad Race at On.

Nearly two years after introducing its first carbon-plated off-road racer, ASICS has unveiled the Metafuji Trail 2, refining what was already one of the most ambitious trail running shoes.

The original Metafuji Trail proved that "super shoe" technology wasn't limited to road marathons, bringing together a carbon plate, lightweight foams and aggressive trail grip in a package designed for serious mountain racing.

Now, the Japanese brand believes it has taken the formula a step further.

The new model tips the scales at 255g (men's), shaving 5g off its predecessor while retaining the same 5mm drop.

A new top layer of FF LEAP, ASICS' lightest and bounciest foam, now sits above the plate, while FF BLAST PLUS remains underneath to cushion long efforts.

Despite becoming lighter, the shoe still packs a substantial 36.5mm heel stack and 31.5mm forefoot stack, giving runners plenty of protection over ultra-distance races.

Built for the biggest mountain races

Grip remains courtesy of the proven ASICSGRIP outsole, complete with 3.5mm lugs designed to balance traction on soft ground without feeling overbearing on firmer trails.

A Motion Wrap upper, SOLYTE sockliner and quick-lace system complete the package, all aimed at keeping weight low while improving comfort over long distances.

During one of trail running's biggest events in Chamonix (a.k.a. UTMB) last year, ASICS athletes Tom Evans and Ben Dhiman wore prototype versions of the Metafuji Trail 2 to claim first and second place, with their feedback helping shape the final production model.

That production version will make its competitive debut today, 10 July, as Evans lines up at one of the world's best-known 100-mile trail races before the shoe goes on general sale.

The Metafuji Trail 2 firmly targets competitive trail runners chasing podiums and personal bests rather than everyday mileage.

But as brands continue to bring road racing technology into the mountains, it shows the trail super shoe category is evolving just as quickly as its road-running counterpart.

The ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 will be available globally from 1 August 2026 for the recommended price of $250.

Find out more at ASICS.

ASICS has unveiled its first-ever footwear collaboration with FP Movement, the activewear arm of Free People, giving two of its most popular performance shoes a fashion-forward overhaul inspired by the colours of sunrise and sunset.

FP Movement has grown into a sizeable activewear business since launching in 2012, became a standalone brand in 2020, and now operates almost 100 stores in the US.

The limited-edition collection spans both running and tennis, with fresh takes on the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 and GEL-Challenger 15.

According to the brands, it's the first time they've worked together on footwear, while ASICS says it's also the first collaboration to combine its performance running and tennis categories in a single launch.

The running shoe component of the range adopts warm sunset-inspired accents, including an eye-catching orange midsole, while the GEL-Challenger 15 features the brand's signature paisley print across the upper, giving the stability-focused tennis shoe a distinctly lifestyle feel.

Chasing the light

The collaboration's key message is the idea of "golden hour," those early morning and evening moments when many runners and tennis players head outdoors.

It's a theme reflected in both the colour palette and the accompanying campaign, with FP Movement also hosting community running events in New York and Los Angeles to celebrate the launch.

The GEL-Nimbus 28 retains the same comfort-focused setup as the standard model, combining FF BLAST PLUS cushioning with PureGEL technology to deliver the plush ride that has helped make it one of ASICS' flagship daily trainers.

Meanwhile, the GEL-Challenger 15 continues to use WINGWALL technology to improve lateral stability on court without compromising comfort.

While only the shoes are available at ASICS, FP Movement also sells running and tennis apparel and accessories as part of the collection.

The FP Movement x ASICS collection has gone on sale from 7 July via FP Movement, ASICS and selected Dick's Sporting Goods stores in the US.

The GEL-Nimbus 28 is priced at $180 (around £135), while the GEL-Challenger 15 costs $130 (around £95).

Adidas' Adizero Evo SL has quickly become one of the most talked-about running shoes of the past year, earning a reputation as a lightweight super trainer that borrows heavily from the record-breaking Adios Pro Evo.

Now adidas has given it one of its boldest updates yet, replacing the traditional lacing system with... a full-length zip.

The Adizero Evo SL Zip retains the same Lightstrike Pro midsole and geometry as the standard Evo SL, but wraps the upper in a sleek zippered cover that creates a cleaner, more aerodynamic silhouette and makes the shoe easier to slip on and off.

Adidas says the design was inspired by the Adios Pro Evo 1, although the look also feels like a nod to the zip-covered sprint spikes that dominated athletics tracks in the early 2000s.

The most striking visual change is the uninterrupted Three Stripes branding, which now stretches across the upper without laces breaking up the design.

Fast fashion meets fast running

Beyond the zip, the Evo SL Zip still uses the company's full-length Lightstrike Pro foam, tips the scales at just 209g, and offers a 37mm heel, 31mm forefoot and a 6mm drop.

A textile upper, textile lining and rubber outsole round out what is essentially the same package that made the Evo SL such a popular choice among runners looking for an everyday trainer with race-day DNA.

It costs exactly the same as the standard Evo SL, making the zip more of a design statement than a premium upgrade.

It'll be interesting to see whether the hidden lacing system beneath the zip delivers the same locked-in feel or whether this version ends up finding a bigger audience among sneaker fans than marathon runners.

The Adizero Evo SL has already proved it can comfortably straddle the line between performance shoe and lifestyle trainer.

Adding a zip only pushes it further in that direction, and I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes one of adidas' most polarising launches of the year.

The Adizero EVO SL ZIP Shoes are available now at Adidas UK, Adidas US and Adidas EU for the recommended price of £150 / £170 / €170 (~AU$280).

Montreal-based norda has lifted the lid on its latest premium trail running shoe, the 055, a high-stack performance model designed to tackle everything from fast training runs to ultramarathons.

The newcomer joins the brand's growing lineup as an all-terrain, all-distance option, sitting alongside the race-focused 005 but adopting a more cushioned, supportive approach.

The 055's tall stack height is reminiscent of Hoka's chunky running trainers, including the Bondi and Speedgoat series, and is the first norda shoe to feature a knit tongue and collar.

It's designed to improve lockdown while keeping trail debris at bay, while the structured heel is said to offer greater stability over long distances.

As with the rest of the range, the upper is constructed from bio-circular Dyneema, an exceptionally lightweight woven material that norda says is up to 15 times stronger than steel by weight.

It's the same material used for Simond's ultralight Sprint Tarp Tent 2P and Gossamer Gear's also incredibly light Grit 28 backpack.

More than a numbers game

The biggest change lies underfoot, with the 055 using a 100% Arnitel TPEE midsole, which norda claims returns more than 75% of the energy generated with each stride while maintaining consistent performance across both hot and cold conditions.

Underneath, a bespoke Vibram outsole combines the company's latest Megagrip Elite compound with Litebase technology to maximise grip while trimming unnecessary weight.

According to co-founder Nick Martire, the new model was conceived as a more substantial counterpart to the 005.

While the race shoe prioritises outright speed and minimal weight, the 055 adopts what he describes as a "more is more" philosophy, pairing a higher stack height with a taller collar and more structured upper to deliver explosive performance without sacrificing stability.

The shoe has already seen competitive action during the 2026 trail racing season, including Rachel Entrekin's record-breaking run at the Cocodona 250.

The norda 055 launches globally on 9 July at norda in the Strato colourway and will cost $325 USD/$325 CAD.

UK, EU and AU pricing and availability TBC.

Altra has unveiled the Torin 9, the latest version of its flagship road running shoe, bringing meaningful upgrades to one of the brand's best-known models rather than reinventing a winning formula.

The new trainers retain the zero-drop platform and roomy FootShape fit the Torin's been known for, while introducing a grippier outsole and a redesigned midsole.

The Utah-born brand has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence over the past year, becoming the fastest-growing name in parent company VF Corp's portfolio.

Its revenue climbed more than 30% over the last financial year as more runners embrace its distinctive approach to footwear.

Visually, the Torin 9 pairs a clean white engineered mesh upper with a striking lime-to-orange gradient wrapping around the midsole, giving the shoe considerably more personality than many of its neutral-training rivals.

There are nine colourways to choose from, including the base White/Black/Safety Yellow to the more subtle Turtle Dove/Desert.

Better grip, same natural ride

The biggest update is the all-new Vibram XS DURA outsole, developed exclusively for Altra and claimed to provide 8.5% more grip than the Torin 8.

This is said to make the shoe more confidence-inspiring on wet pavements, painted crossings and other slippery urban surfaces, addressing one of the few areas where previous Torin models lagged behind the competition.

Underfoot, Altra has introduced its new P35X dual-density foam, combining a softer inner layer with a firmer outer section to create a ride that's both more energetic and more stable.

The upper has also been refined with a reshaped heel, an elevated tongue, and an updated collar construction, while maintaining the generous toe box and zero-drop geometry.

At 269g (men's US 10.5), with a 28mm stack height and Altra's signature 0mm drop, the Torin 9 remains firmly aimed at runners seeking a plush, neutral daily trainer that comfortably handles everything from easy recovery runs to marathon training.

The Torin 9 is launching on 6 July for $160 in the US and £135 in the UK. EU and AU prices and availability TBC.

Saucony has given its flagship Endorphin running shoe family a fresh coat of paint, unveiling a new White/Multi colourway across the entire franchise ahead of this year's Saucony London 10K.

Available from 6 July, the capsule spans the Endorphin Elite 3, Endorphin Pro 5, Endorphin Speed 5 and the recently launched Endorphin Azura, bringing a unified visual identity to the brand's speed-focused lineup.

The new palette pairs crisp white engineered mesh uppers with vibrant flashes of aqua, coral and electric yellow.

While the shoes remain unmistakably modern, the combination of colours harks back to the original Endorphin range that helped establish Saucony as one of the leading names in the carbon-plated super shoe market.

It's a cleaner, more refined interpretation of that iconic look, with the bright accents applied more sparingly across largely white midsoles.

The White/Multi treatment extends across each model despite their differing roles within the range.

At the top sits the Endorphin Elite 3, Saucony's premier marathon racer, joined by the Endorphin Pro 5 for race day, the nylon-plated Endorphin Speed 5 for training and racing, and the Endorphin Azura, a non-plated superfoam trainer designed for faster everyday miles.

Saucony says the campaign centres on runners pushing themselves in a high-intensity treadmill environment, with the footwear taking centre stage to showcase the different roles each model plays within the Endorphin family.

The collection launches during race week for the Saucony London 10K, where thousands of runners are expected to take to the streets of the British capital under the brand's "Run As One" banner, celebrating the shared experience of racing together.

The new set is a visual refresh that unifies the entire Endorphin franchise under one striking design language.

For long-time Saucony fans, though, the biggest appeal may be the subtle nostalgia.

The white, turquoise and fluorescent accents evoke memories of the original Endorphin Pro, a shoe that played a major role in defining Saucony's modern performance identity.

The Endorphin Collection is available now at Saucony.

At its "An Exercise in Lightness" showcase in Paris, Swiss running brand On has taken the wraps off the second generation of its flagship marathon running shoes, introducing both the Cloudboom Strike 2 and the LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2 ahead of their July launch.

The successor of 2024's Cloudboom Strike features an entirely new cushioning platform called CloudTec Sphere, which the company says is designed to help runners maintain speed deep into a marathon rather than simply feel fast over the opening miles.

Fresh legs, faster finish

CloudTec Sphere replaces the original shoe's midsole geometry with a series of engineered cushioning channels intended to improve impact absorption, comfort and energy return.

It works alongside a new version of On's Helion HF super foam, which is said to be 15% lighter than the previous generation, while an updated curved carbon Speedboard sits between dual-density foam layers to maximise forward propulsion.

The LightSpray Cloudboom Strike 2 continues to use On's robot-produced one-piece upper, a seamless construction that eliminates traditional stitching, glue and even laces.

According to the company, testing carried out by the University of Cape Town found the shoe delivers a 1.6% improvement in running economy compared with leading marathon racers.

On says the shoe has already helped several of its sponsored athletes to personal bests, including Hellen Obiri, who cut 1 minute 48 seconds from her marathon PB in London, Yeman Crippa, who improved by 48 seconds while winning the Paris Marathon, and Joe Klecker, who lowered his best by 4 minutes 41 seconds in Boston.

Despite packing plenty of cushioning, the standard Cloudboom Strike 2 weighs just 191g, while the LightSpray version drops to an astonishing 158g, both with a 5mm heel-to-toe drop.

The shoes arrive on 30 July, with UK prices set at £230 / $250 / €250 (~AU$440) for the Cloudboom Strike 2 and £300 / $310 / €320 (~AU$574) for the LightSpray edition, which includes a pair of Elite Run Sock High Hyper socks in the box.

You can find more information about the shoes at On.

For most runners, the biggest challenge of summer is staying cool once the miles start piling up.

French performance running brand SATISFY thinks it has an answer, and it's teamed up with everyone's favourite throwback eyewear brand, Oakley, once again to put that technology to the test.

Shop Oakley's up to 50% off sunglasses sale

The latest SATISFY x Oakley collaboration is dubbed Equipment for Our World – Chapter VII, the latest instalment in the two brands' long-running Equipment for Our World series

These have seen SATISFY revisit classic Oakley eyewear while developing increasingly technical running apparel.

The latest collection's standout innovation is HeatCrush, a new Japanese-developed performance fabric that the brands claim can reduce skin temperature by up to 8°C during exercise.

According to SATISFY, the material responds to sweat and airflow, drawing heat away from the body as effort increases.

In company testing with a thermal mannequin, HeatCrush outperformed standard nylon and polyester fabrics, though these results are based on SATISFY's own testing.

Heat-proof kit with a Y2K twist

SATISFY and Oakley describe Chapter VII as a complete "equipment system" for running in extreme heat.

The collection includes a HeatCrush T-Shirt, 8-inch Desert Shorts, Arm Sleeves and a Neck Cooler, all made from lightweight Japanese fabric that's hand-dip-dyed in a century-old dye house, giving each garment a unique finish.

Bonded AcroFuse seams help reduce weight and minimise chafing, while the cooling fabric is designed to become more effective as sweat and airflow increase.

Stealing the show, though, is the Straight Jacket 99, a limited-edition reinterpretation of one of Oakley's most iconic late-1990s wraparound sunglasses.

Instead of following today's trend for oversized shield lenses, the collaboration embraces the brand's unmistakable Y2K aesthetic, pairing a slim, close-fitting Matte Black frame with exclusive Prizm Black Vented lenses.

The scalloped vents cut into the top and bottom of the lenses are designed to increase airflow behind the lenses, helping reduce heat buildup and fogging during hard efforts.

The sunglasses weigh just 25g and combine Oakley's lightweight O Matter frame with grippy Unobtainium nose pads and earsocks, which become more secure as you sweat.

SATISFY says the Straight Jacket 99 is built for "long efforts and open exposure hours", making it a natural companion to the HeatCrush apparel for runners training through the hottest months of the year.

The new collection is available now through SATISFY, Oakley and selected retail partners.

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.