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    Tried & Tested: New Running Shoes From Asics, PUMA & Salomon & Under Armour

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    Are you on the hunt for a comfy pair of new running shoes? Or maybe you’re after your very first pair and don’t know where to start? Perhaps you’re overwhelmed with the sheer volume of new takkies dropping seemingly weekly. Wherever you are in your running journey, we’re here to help you.

    There are so many factors to consider when looking for a pair of running shoes. Think: price, cushioning, pronation, heel drop, distances and of course, the look and feel. So we put the newest running shoes to the test, racking up kms to find four that are worth your hard-earned rands. Here’s what we thought about the latest offerings from PUMA, Under Armour, Asics and Salomon. Happy running!

    READ MORE: Beginners 5K Running Training Plan And How To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks

    PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 599

    Pros

    ✅ Versatile and comfortable 

    ✅ Affordable price

    Cons

    ❌ Those with wider feet might find it a bit snug

    #WHTestsIt

    PUMA may not have been the first brand that came to mind when you went to your local Sportsman’s Warehouse a few years ago, but they sure should be now. They’ve put considerable research and tech into their new fleet of running shoes to bring you launches that will get you where you want to go (and fast)!

    Last year, their ForeverRUN NITRO was one of the pairs I wore the most and I loved it. Now, the Velocity Nitro 3 is overtaking that shoe as one of my favourites. PUMA has taken comfort seriously meaning you don’t have to worry about any niggles or discomfort. You can thank the NITROFOAM™ which makes the shoe well-cushioned yet responsive. 

    If you do a lot of your runs on the treadmill at your local gym or if you’re just starting out and find yourself doing a combination of running and walking these will be your go-to trainer. But they aren’t just for the treadmill, they hold up well as a daily trainer on the road too. The PUMAGrip on the outsole gives you great traction so you can focus on smashing goals rather than whether you’re going to slip.  PUMA has done it again and you’ll definitely be seeing the bright flash of green zoom past you in months to come.

    READ MORE: These Strength And Cross-Training Workouts Will Improve Your Running

    ASICS Gel Nimbus 26

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799

    Pros

    ✅ Plush and comfortable

    ✅ Improved grip

    Cons

    ❌ Not the best for speedy runners

    #WHTestsIt

    You can’t go wrong with a Gel Nimbus, it’s one of Asics’ best-selling and longest running shoe models. In fact, their Gel Nimbus 25 (released last year) is actually the shoe that made me fall in love with running. It took me from struggling to run a 5km to smashing a 21km in weeks (I couldn’t believe it either!) The Gel Nimbus 26 is everything I loved in the 25 (maximum cushioning and a comfortable upper) with some minor tweaks that make a major difference and ultimately give you a smoother ride.

    The knitted upper has been reengineered so that it’s wider in the forefoot and toe-box. And the eyelets have also changed and give improved lockdown so your foot is secure without being strangled. So overall you have a softer yet more supportive midfoot hold.

    The most impressive improvement is thanks to the addition of ASICSGRIP™ technology and AHARPLUS™ outsole rubber. The outsole uses new hybrid grip technology to give you more traction on wet surfaces (a real winner during winter) and advanced durability.

    The Gel Nimbus 26 also feels a tad firmer than the previous iteration so while it’s become a favourite for my longer, slower runs or even recovery runs, it now will definitely be able to handle those pacier runs, too.

    READ MORE: Long-Distance Trail Running: Here’s Exactly How To Prep And Push Through

    Salomon Genesis

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 599

    Pros

    ✅ Gives you confidence on technical runs

    ✅ Suits newbies and more experienced runners

    Cons

    ❌ Runs quite small so consider sizing up

    #WHTestsIt

    As the temperatures begin to drop, now is the perfect time to get into trail running… or break in a new pair before signing up for a trail running race. First, every time I wear these, I get compliments on how gorgeous they are and while that has no impact on running ability, it sure is a plus.

    But beyond the beautiful colour way, these trail shoes pack some serious tech that will serve beginners and more advanced trail runners well. Many trail shoes prioritise stability and technical support at the cost of comfort and cushioning, but the Genesis does the exact opposite. It has a highly supportive Active Chassis and unique two-part lug pattern (All-Terrain Contagrip® compound) and raised tread so your grip is secure no matter the terrain. And the Energy Foam and weaved Matryx® upper give you a comfortable and cushioned ride.

    When wearing the Genesis, I feel very confident and stable on the trails. This is something super important to me for two reasons. One, trail running is something I only do once or twice a week so I’m definitely an amateur and lack confidence. And because I’m a treadmill/road/gym frequenter, I’m not used to having to concentrate as much and tend to slip or almost lose my footing often on my trail runs. It really is a great trail shoe, I would just recommend sizing up.

    READ MORE: Maximise Your Runs With These Tips From The Pros

    Under Armour Infinite Elite

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Maximum | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799

    Pros

    ✅  Revolutionary foam

    ✅ Great for long and everyday runs

    Cons

    ❌ Might be too stacked for some

    #WHTestsIt

    Now, this is a LOT of shoe. Your first thought about the Infinite Elite will definitely be about the height of it. It certainly was mine. And when you put them on you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re using stilts. But somehow the Infinite Elite doesn’t feel heavy at all.

    If it’s cushioning you want? It’s cushioning you’ll get with the Infinite Elites. Except the cushioning is unlike anything you’ve ever felt before. Under Armour has used new HOVR+ foam which they say gives the shoe superior energy return and a bouncier ride. And springy she is. This full-length one-piece bead foam midsole gives you a super plush experience that is perfect for your long run days and your everyday kilometres too.

    And if it’s your knees and joints you’re worried about, Under Armour has gone the extra step by using a bevel heel design that helps lessen heel impact and allows you to land smoothly and increase overall stability. I reach for these for my longer Saturday runs and really love how you can quite literally feel them help you bounce off the road.

    Plus if you’re looking for some kit to support you on your runs, the Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bras is one of the most supportive (and flattering) bras I’ve worn in a long time. And the straps can be adjusted to ensure you’ve got the perfect fit, every run

    Kelleigh is the Managing Editor of Women’s Health. When she’s not convincing her colleagues to try the latest TikTok trends, you can find her planning a holiday that never leaves the group chat, binge-reading or eating her way through Cape Town. More

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      in fitness and body

      Get Cushiness *And* Stability With The New PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

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      Consider the new PUMA Velocity Nitro 3 your go-to training shoes for long slogs, tempo runs and more. The shoe, with superior cushioning, makes for comfortable running, with enhanced speed tech to help you go faster.

      PUMA Velocity Nitro 3

      The Specs

      A lightweight shoe that doesn’t compromise on stability or comfort. A heel spoiler adds more stability to the shoe while NITRO™ Advanced technology provides superior responsiveness and cushioning.

      Cushioning level: medium

      Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm

      Pronation level: Neutral

      READ MORE: Introducing The PUMA Velocity NITRO™ 3 – Your Perfect Training Partner

      What it’s good for

      Made for all-round running, the Velocity Nitro 3 tackles all distances comfortably and quickly. It contains Nitrogen-infused foam technology for explosive energy to propel you forward easily and with an 8mm heal-to-toe drop, you will be very cushioned. Plus, stability straps, using PUMA’s PWRTAPE tech, cradle your foot so that with each stride, you’re comfortable and supported in the shoe. The grippy outsole provides traction on various surfaces, minimising slip and elevating your experience.

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      We tried it

      WH Creative Director Pia Hammond took to the streets with the Nine Four running club to test the shoe.

      “After a hiatus from running, I was hesitant about going in with a fear of losing steam running. The colour was the first thing that stood out for me, limo yellow/green seems to be trending right now. As soon as I put it on it hugged my foot with just enough space in the front for my toes to wiggle. The sole is narrow and bouncy, which made the running experience make me feel like a bouncing gazelle. As an experienced runner, I have been running 10km since receiving them, my pace is fast and it beats all my expectations of a running shoe. I will be using them for long and short distances in the future. Perhaps even pairing them with some jeans while running errands!”

      READ MORE: Ready To Play Padel? Here’s The Gear You Need, Per Experts

      Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. More

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      in fitness and body

      The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Might Be The Bounciest Running Shoe We’ve Tried

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      When it comes to running, a number of factors come into play that determine how much you’ll get out of that 5K sprint (or let’s be honest – light jog). There’s how well you hold yourself – too far forward and you’ll be going slowly, too far back and it’s the same. There’s your cadence, pace and other measurable variables. But one that only gets measured by how much pain you experience? Your bouncy running shoe. Too tight and you’ll cramp. If it’s too loose, you’ll get no support. Too soft and you’ll hurt your knees. But we have found a winner! 

      When shopping for a running shoe, we know we need to look at arch support, ankle support and something light and springy. The *new* New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 delivers all that and then some. It’s incredibly light and so bouncy you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re walking on reinforced marshmallows.

      New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080

      The Specs

      Get comfort for your feet with this shoe. It cushions the foot perfectly, while still being versatile for everyday life. A midsole is built for smooth transitions from the landing to push-off (so you’re flying) and a second-skin style mesh upper provides breathability that’s supportive around the ankle. Plus, choose your preferred fit, from a standard shoe or wider shoe.

      READ MORE: How Do You Know When It’s Time To Replace Your Running Shoes?

      What it’s good for 

      Touted as your go-to everyday shoe, this gorgeous runner goes beyond cradling your foot while trying to ace your next PB. It’s been designed to be worn while running errands, shopping, walking, the whole nine yards. “As a mostly barefoot person (hello, WFH attire), I relished this shoe in all its softness as I padded around the house and did my morning walks. Light and airy, it also looks great with a pair of jeans and a plain white top,” says Michelle October, WH Features Ed. 

      READ MORE: The ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 30: The Shoe That Will Make You Love Running Again

      We tried the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080

      WH Features Editor Michelle October took the shoes for a run.

      “The shoe is next-level bouncy and responsive on the road. I tried it out on a run and felt like I was flying through my route. Because the shoe is so soft, I expected it to have minimal support around the ankle – I have weak ones – but that wasn’t the case. The forefoot is reinforced and ultra-supportive, making it perfect for long runs. It’s also got a light, airy upper that leaves your foot able to breathe as you take on your run. I loved that it gave me back what I pounded into the pavement and the bounce back definitely takes a load off your knees when running. Overall, a shoe I’d buy in an instant.”  More

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      in fitness and body

      Under Armour Drops 2024 Gear – And We Are Obsessed!

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      Step into the future with Under Armour’s 2024 tech and product range, where innovation and style collide to empower athletes of all levels. From groundbreaking baselayers to premium sportswear and cutting-edge running shoes, Under Armour is bringing their a-game to help you reach your peak performance.

      Told through an immersive fit – the brand highlights three areas of focus in the year to come:

      Baselayer – For the Heat and Cold.

      Unstoppable Collection – Be Unstoppable. Born from performance. Made for style.

      Infinite – The Run Category Collection.

      Baselayer Tech

      Under Armour’s 2024 collection places a significant focus on baselayer technology, which saw the unveiling of new Heatgear, Coldgear, Iso-Chill and Authentics apparel. These cutting-edge baselayers are designed to offer a next-to-skin fit, regulating temperature and providing essential support for every athlete. 

      The baselayer product offerings included:

      HG Armour Tee (feel cool, dry and light)

      CG Armour (feel warm, dry and light)

      HG Armour Iso-Chill (Makes you cooler so you can work longer).

      All of which exemplify the commitment to moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties, ensuring athletes feel powerful and perform at their best. With key benefits such as a next-to-skin fit which regulates temperature, these items are a must-have for every athlete. But, that’s not all. They’re light and tight which makes you feel more powerful so you can work out for longer.

      READ MORE: We Tested The NEW Under Armour Iso-Chill Range With Running Late Club

      Unstoppable Collection

      This is a premium sportswear line designed for athletes who want to look good, feel confident and perform at their peak. It’s described as a “clean, premium and a future-looking sports style.” Feeling confident and unstoppable is the emotional impact of wearing the product. Designed with UA performance technology and crafted from premium materials, the gear is not only comfortable and stylish but also enhances one’s overall performance. The woven fabric, enhanced with an EcoStorm finish, ensures superior comfort and durability, with the jackets composed of 90% Polyester and 10% Elastane, and the bottoms available in 100% Polyester or 90% Polyester/10% Elastane options. 

      The Unstoppable Woven Jackets

      These represent a fusion of style and functionality, catering to the needs of today’s active lifestyle with an elevated and versatile sportswear design. Ideal for post-workout recovery, travel, and everyday activities, these jackets feature a woven fabric with an EcoStorm finish, ensuring superior comfort and durability. The trendy jacket silhouettes not only offer a contemporary look but also incorporate elements of sports heritage DNA, adding a distinctive touch to the design. The jackets boast a loose fit, providing comfort and ease of movement, along with practical pockets for added functionality. The inclusion of PU matte logos adds a touch of sophistication, making these jackets a stylish and practical choice for individuals leading an active lifestyle.

      The Unstoppable Woven Bottoms

      Crafted with woven fabrics featuring an EcoStorm finish, these bottoms ensure superior comfort and durability. The design showcases cargo and wide-leg silhouettes, combined with an elevated aesthetic with elements of sports heritage DNA. Evident attention to detail shines through with the oversized fit for wide-leg pants, loose fit for cargo styles, convenient pockets and incorporation of PU matte logos.

      READ MORE: 24 Best Fitness Gifts For The Gym Lover In Your Life

      Infinite

      Let’s talk shoes, a popular offering in the Under Armour staple. It was announced that a key focus for 2024 is their Infinite Shoe range, with special attention being placed on the UA Infinite Pro, UA Infinite and UA Elite – elevating your running experience like no other. 

      UA Infinite Pro

      Designed to deliver an elevated and comfortable running experience, the UA Infinite Pro incorporates various tech features. The tongue and collar lining provide added comfort, ensuring a snug fit without irritation. The shoe prioritises heel impact reduction for smooth landings and enhanced overall stability. Its outsole is intelligently designed for a balance of durability and lightweight rebound. The engineered upper, with zonal structures and 3D haptic print detailing, offers breathability and containment. A high-resiliency premium sock liner cradles the foot, enhancing step-in comfort. The lightweight Pebax foam in the midsole contributes to soft landings and exceptional springiness, providing excellent energy return. The one-piece bead foam midsole, softer, lighter, and more flexible, ensures a plush and bouncier underfoot experience for runners.

      UA Infinite

      The UA Infinite offers an exceptional running experience with its Deluxe Comfort System, featuring an Ortholite sock liner and PU strobel underfoot for ultimate step-in comfort. The full-length, unwrapped HOVR technology ensures lightweight cushioning and high rebound responsiveness, propelling the runner forward. The Circular Knit full-length upper contributes to breathability, durability, and lightweight containment. Additionally, the shoe is equipped with a durable rubber outsole that provides traction and durability. This ensures proper flexibility for an efficient toe-off during each stride.

      UA Infinite Elite

      The UA Infinite Elite promises an uninhibited running experience with its resilient and springy core. The updated outsole design features wider gauges and a reinforced heel for added guidance, flexibility, and efficient dispersion of impact forces, ensuring a smooth ride. HOVR+ cushioning, higher midsole heights, and intelliknit upper technology combine for an undeniably plush feel, providing a dynamic fit. Notable features include a pull tab for easy entry, premium branding for heel support and an outsole designed for a balance of durability and lightweight rebound.

      The knit upper materialisation provides a precision 1:1 fit with micro details. While a high-resiliency premium sock liner enhances step-in comfort. The full-length, one-piece bead foam midsole contributes to a softer, lighter, and more flexible underfoot experience, promising runners a smoothed-out ride with amplified energy return and increased overall stability.

      For more information, visit https://underarmour.co.za or download the Under Armour app on Google Play or the Apple Store, today! More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      New Balance Regional Manager on building a base in UAE and growing across GCC

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      Emirates Man

      by Amy Sessions
      3 hours ago

      We discuss scaling a business whilst maintaing integrity, innovation and the art of the perfect partnerships with Stuart Henwood, Regional General Manager Middle East, Africa & India at New Balance.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      In my daily routine, I prioritise waking up early and going for a bike ride. This morning exercise sets me up well for the day ahead by energising both my body and mind, allowing me to approach my tasks with a positive attitude and heightened focus. Once I arrive at work, the first part of my morning is dedicated to the Regional and Local teams. During this time, we discuss and strategize based on the key focal areas for that particular day or week.
      How did your previous roles prepare you for your current role and what enticed you to work with a brand with such a great legacy?
      Throughout my career, I have been incredibly fortunate to seize opportunities that have shaped my professional journey. Thirteen years ago, an exciting opportunity arose to work for New Balance in Hong Kong, and I am grateful for the chance to be a part of their dynamic team through my wider sports network. Before joining New Balance, I had gained valuable experience through diverse roles in FMCG and sales in various locations. These experiences were instrumental in developing my skills and understandingdifferent market dynamics. They provided me with a solid foundation and a unique perspective that I carry with me to this day.
      How does New Balance innovate?
      The brand is one of the leading sports manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers across the globe and continues to innovate whether that be in running with new technologies, sustainable material, sports science, or with retail environments. It’s on a continuous journey of innovation to meet the needs of our consumers.

      How do you approach markets differently when it comes to communication and growth strategy?
      We set up the New Balance MENA subsidiary here in Dubai in July 2019 and we have been on an exciting journey across the GCC and African geographies. What is so exciting is that each country within the region is unique and different. The key is understanding, listening to our consumers and partners in those markets, and tailoring solutions to meet their needs whilst driving consistent brand product assortments & messaging. Glocalization is a word that best sums up our approach. Having a base here in Dubai with our own retail has enabled us to use an ink spot strategy for Retail as an example of how we approach retailing across the region. We are just getting started!
      What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome it?
      The Covid pandemic in 2020 after we had just set up the subsidiary, but the team did an amazing job in not just maintaining the momentum but surpassing it.
      What has been your key learning or milestone and why was it so significant?
      Opening our Flagship store in Dubai Mall in Oct 2021 enabled us to showcase our best-in-class products whilst engaging with our consumers in an interactive way. In addition, it enabled us to showcase the best expression of the brand to our partners which has led to strong growth with our wholesale and retail franchise partners across the region. This includes UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Morocco, Bahrain, Egypt and India.
      What do you need in this current retail market to succeed?
      To remain humble with a continued Challenger brand mindset How does the New Balance customer consume data and how do you ensure you speak to them regularly to retain loyalty? We have our Brand social and digital site with which we engage with our communities as well as through sports marketing, grassroots and community initiatives. We also track and have regular consumer interaction sessions around MENA trends. It’s a continuous journey given the ever-changing habits of our consumers and in particular the young independent consumers and the way they shop.

      Do you believe in the online/offline partnership when it comes to building a brand?
      This is key and it’s about balance across multipleplatforms of engagement and purchasing. An omnichannel mindset is integral togrowth and consumer engagement.
      If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
      The best advice I was given was “Stay the Course”. It helped me realize that things will not always go the way you want, but if you have a vision and a passion, “stay the course” things will work out. If you are travelling – which pair of New Balance do you pack for multi-tasking? Fresh Foam More or Made in US… it’s importantto be comfortable whilst stylish and both tick these boxes.
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      Images: Supplied by New Balance  More