Asics MetaRun
RRP: £200
The limited edition MetaRun was released in late November to Box Office fanfare. With a new and improved FlyteFoam midsole, a small carbon stability system (AdaptTruss) and MetaClutch external heel counter, it’s been billed as a long-distance runner’s dream. And there’s no denying that it provides a smooth ride; the upper fits like a glove and the FlyteFoam provides just enough cushioning without hampering speed. However, those looking for an out-and-out racer may find the AdaptTruss stability system a bit clunky for their tastes, while the hefty price tag will be a deal-breaker for many. That said, debut marathoners and those who prefer a protective ride won’t find a shoe better suited to tackling the distance in such comfort and style.
asics.co.uk
Saucony Triumph Iso 2
RRP: £144
The unparalleled comfort of Saucony’s neutral shoes has been its prime selling-point in recent years. The Iso 2, though, represents a shift to a more competitive, responsive option – without compromising cushioning or durability. The star of the show is EVERUN, a new form of cushioning that’s slimmed down and more responsive. Saucony loyalists will be pleased that the ISOFIT upper has retained its unrestrictive fit and, ultimately, the brand has done an impressive job of making a neutral shoe feel quick enough to be a competitive racer.
saucony.com/en
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32
RRP: £90
Say what you may about Nike, but there’s little denying that it consistently delivers the best-looking trainers on the market. The 32nd edition of the Pegasus range is no exception. While previous releases have seemed to focus on style over substance, however, the Pegasus 32 is also an excellent running shoe. The Flywire arch support system and engineered mesh upper provide a sock-like fit and unrivalled comfort. Furthermore, Air Zoom cushioning provides enough protection for longer runs, as well as plenty of responsiveness for anything as short as 5K. The 10mm heel to toe drop will seem a bit much for forefoot strikers, but if you’re looking for a comfy, fashionable all-rounder, Nike continue to be the brand of choice.
store.nike.com/gb
New Balance Vazee Pace
RRP: £100
A rare combination of comfort, speed and style. The no-sew upper is snug, without being too tight – a criticism of the Fresh Foam Zante – and the forefoot is highly flexible, which allows for a smooth transition to toe-off. Weighing in at just 212g, it’s incredibly light for a neutral trainer, with enough cushioning to ease the effects of high mileage, without impairing speed-giving ground feel. We’re fans of the look-at-me orange and white colour scheme, but for those a little more reserved, it’s also available in more subtle grey and blue designs.
newbalance.co.uk
Brooks Launch 3
RRP: £90
The Brooks Launch 3 is a sub-300g shoe that punches above its weight in terms of stability (despite being a neutral shoe) and relative cushioning. This leaves it sitting somewhere in between a high-mileage training shoe and an out-and-out racing flat. Most of the weight-saving has come from the upper, which is thin and breathable but reinforced in the right places for durability. As well as having a roomy toe box, this is the type of shoe you could race a marathon in without sacrificing too much comfort.
brooksrunning.com/en_gb
Puma Ignite Powercool Turbulence
RRP: £85
Comfort, looks and responsiveness combine in Puma’s latest impressive addition to its Ignite range. Although yet to establish itself as one of the running elite, this trainer demonstrates Puma’s growing credentials in a hotly contested market. Although the effectiveness of the PowerCool technology – designed to regulate body temperature – is questionable, the shoe delivers in every other department. In terms of comfort, a moulded EVA sockliner supports the arch and adds to the upper’s glove-like fit. Where performance is concerned, the energy-returning cushioning is not dissimilar to that of the coveted adidas boost technology; compressing on landing and rebounding on the toe off to create an ideal combination of protection and responsiveness. The outsole’s deep guidance grooves, meanwhile, not only aid the fluidity of your foot strike; they also provide excellent traction over wet ground.
uk.puma.com
