Words: Violet
It’s the month of January and it’s brought with it an influx of slightly overweight and very unfit men vowing to finally get in shape. Don’t get us wrong, we aren’t judging, we too at TGJ are guilty of this annual attempt to better ourselves, hoping that this will be the year that we finally make it past the 1st February drop off. But one thing that stays constant, whether you are a seasoned pro or a fitness beginner, is the absolute necessity to have a good pair of trainers. So, check out our top picks for the best running trainers on the market for 2014.
Asics Gel Cumulus-15
Asics are always on hand to provide high quality running trainers and this latest model doesn’t disappoint. A handsome looking shoe, it combines SoLyte, SpEVA and Gel in the midsole to provide cushioning and support throughout every stage of the running stride. Highlight? The heel is constructed of two layers of memory foam increasing the comfort of the overall trainer.
Saucony Kinvara 4
This trainer has been created using a meticulous culmination of all previous models. With its upper FlexFilm structure it allows for a more lightweight model, allowing the foot to move more naturally. There is also a brand new PowerGrid System, a Powerfoam cushion that supports the foot through all of your running strides.
Mizuno Wave Rider 17
A vast improvement on previous models, the materials of the Midsole mean that the shoe is 30% lighter than previous foams. The upper is made with mesh and heat-welded overlays culminating in a comfortable high-mileage shoe. When it comes to the outsole, the smooth ride tabs have been replaced meaning runners will feel that stability in a much more visceral way. A winner in our books.
Nike Free Hyperfeel
A slight departure in terms of style with these Nike Free Hyperfeel trainers. As can be easily seen from their appearance, the foot is much closer to the ground and this is thanks to the introduction of the Lunarlon insole which allows for a lightweight comfort. The flexible sensation is provided by the ultra-thin Waffle outsole which uses less rubber than traditional outsoles. What’s more, the compressive FlyKnit upper is made with highly elastic threads allowing for improved breathability and stretch. Perfect for multi-surface traction.
Mizuno Wave Sayonara
These trainers have exactly what you need, stability, strength and comfort. The midsole have been constructed with Mizumo’s new compound U4ic, which promised a 30% lighter trainer without compromising on the cushioning.
Newton Running
Newton’s a runner’s running brand: it’s the science that’s sexy in this shoe, not the glamorous name. Its enthusiasts call themselves Newtonites, and these are two of their favourites:
(Top) Energy NR, £100 – newtonrunning.co.uk
(Bottom) Boco AT, £110 – newtonrunning.co.uk
Altra, The One
The One is an all-rounder, do-it-all shoe. Packed with trademarked technology – SpeedPod™ and ZeroDrop™ – it promises strong support. It hasn’t hit our shores yet so you have to ship it from the States.
Nike, Free Flyknit +
This shoe is pretty much made from polyester yarn with ultra-light Flyweight cables woven through for subtle support; Nike’s engineers want this shoe to feel as much like running barefoot as possible.
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