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    The Best Running Shoes For 5k, 10k And 21k

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    You’ve started your running journey and you’ve just signed up for a new race when it hits you: do you have the best running shoes for that distance? Right now, they might be feeling a little thin after all that training.

    Believe it or not, the right shoe for your distance does more than get you a new PB. Wearing the right shoes can prevent injury, since the best running shoes for you supports your unique gait, offers the right cushioning and can handle the lengths you want to go. When picking a shoe, think about your distance, terrain and the technical aspects of the shoe. We’ve got all that info right here.

    Here, we’ve rounded up top trainers for different distances, and are dishing intel on how to know if the shoe you like is right for that distance.

    The Best Running Shoes For A 5K

    Whether you’re just starting out (good for you!) or want to speed up your 5K with speed drills and hill sprints, look for a shoe with less height but sufficient cushioning since this supports your weight but also allows you to run more naturally. These new shoes have stacked soles but are light and built with speed in mind.

    On Cloudsurfer 7

    Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Moderate | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 399  | Weight: 205g

    A pronounced forefoot rocker forces your foot onward with each strike, propelling you forward. As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. They’ve also kept the environment in mind: their dyeing process requires 90% less water and the total recycled content is 30%.

    PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3

    Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799  | Weight: 236g

    Made for everyday runs with extra oomph, this shoe features PWRPLATE technology that stabilises the midsole but also allows your foot to be pushed forward when your foot touches the ground. The cushioning is made from NITRO™ foam, a nitrogen-injected foam that adds a bouncy response to each strike. More than that, for a shoe with a 10mm drop, it feels incredibly stable.

    HOKA Rocket X 2

    Heel drop: 5mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 250  | Weight: 193g

    HOKA has redone their propulsion carbon fibre plate and sandwiched it between two responsive layers of foam. You’ll notice a reduced drop at the heel with a chunky support in the midsole. They’ve purposefully put the foam in strategic zones so you get the support where it’s needed.

    Reebok Floatzig 1

    Heel drop: 6mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 799  | Weight: 277g

    This incredibly popular shoe makes for a springy, fast run. The lightweight foam is sectioned off, making it more flexible when your feet curve while running. A full-length carbon rubber creates a firm outsole, with some extra cushioning in the midsole. This is an excellent option if you’re new to running and it’s specifically designed to get people pounding the pavement. Plus, it’s a great price.

    READ MORE: The 8 Greatest Smartwatches And Trackers To Elevate Your Health and Fitness

    The Best Running Shoes For A 10K

    Now that you’re logging longer distances, you’ll need a shoe with a bit more cushioning and extra durability. Try and find a light shoe – you’ll reduce significant energy when you’re not dragging your shoes along.

    Under Armour Infinite Pro Breeze

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Supination | Price: R3 499  | Weight: 326g

    This shoe is light and springy, making for a fun run. As you log longer distances, the breathable upper is a welcome feature, as is the 3D-moulded sock liner that cradles your foot for comfort. UA HOVR™+ cushioning reduces impact, returns energy & helps propel you forward. The outsole is made to handle things in the long run.

    Nike Zoom Fly 5

    Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Pronation | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 242g

    A nice, stacked heel ensures you’re supported through a 10km run and beyond. A carbon-fibre plate sits inside the shoe, offering extra propulsion. They’ve reworked the foam in the midsole, making it lighter but also more responsive. If you’re a pronator, this might work for you: the forefoot and heel have wider bases for more stability and the banana-like shape raises to create a healthy arch.

    Hoka Cielo X1

    Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Firm | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 750  | Weight: 264g

    Yes, it’s a stable foam that feels closer to the ground, but this goes the distance with speed. The resilient two layers of PEBA midsole provide a bouncy feel with energy return. Between those layers sits a winged carbon fibre plate that widens the surface area on the rebound. The rocker shape creates constant forward propulsion with every step.

    Saucony Ride 17

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 250g

    For soft, plush rides, this shoe might be your fave. The PWRRUN+ foam, their softest-feeling foam that’s plush and springy, is paired with higher sidewalls to provide extra stability. The upper is a breathable mesh, which is important for long runs and the outsole is durable and protective. It’s also vegan and contains recycled materials.

    READ MORE: 5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

    The Best Running Shoes For 21k+

    For 21km runs, personalised comfort is the name of the game. At this stage, you’ll know what kind of cushioning you like and the stability you need. Nonetheless, a long-distance running shoe should carry you through race training and all 21K races going forward, so look for durable outsoles and reinforced uppers.

    adidas Adizero Boston 12 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

    Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 999  | Weight: 216g

    This shoe, created especially for the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, sits at a very reasonable price point while adding vooma to your runs. The ultra-light mesh upper guarantees breathability, while the Lightstrike Pro cushioning feels light and responsive underfoot. As per usual, adidas uses a Continental™ Rubber outsole, which ensures grip in all conditions and is very durable. It features at least 20% recycled materials. 

    New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

    Heel drop: 4mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 399  | Weight: 188g

    Save this one for race day when you’re chasing a new PB. The thick, soft heel keeps every strike ultra cushioned and a thinner, snappier carbon fibre plate gives you a springy energy return. It’s also got that rocker feel that transitions from heel to toe very naturally. And, it’s incredibly light.

    Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 PLATINUM

    Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R4 000  | Weight: 262g

    This shoe, made for long-distance runs, offers a lightweight ride that feels soft but remains durable. To reduce the impact of running on your joints, Asics uses their GEL™ Technology in the front and rear. They’ve added in an improved midfoot, a knitted upper that’s supportive inside. For those looking for a supportive shoe, this one has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance – meaning it’s good for your feet.

    Brooks Ghost 16

    Heel drop: 12mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 050  | Weight: 241g

    Despite the thick sole, you’ll find this shoe to feel incredibly light, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which cushions comfortably. With a spacious toebox for wider feet and a durable outsole using recycled silica, this would last for a variety of distances. The wider toebox is also supported by the wider soles at the forefoot, which provides good stability.

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

    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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      Effortless Running FTW With The New Cloudsurfer Next

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      Launch yourself into running with the Cloudsurfer Next. With all-new CloudTec Phase® cushioning, you’ll experience an effortless glide that makes every run feel like a breeze. Plus, the pronounced forefoot rocker is here to give your stride a powerful boost. Comfort? Check. Energy return? Double check.

      The ‘Smooth Operator’ Of Running

      As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. It’s like running on clouds. The easy step-in design accommodates a wider range of foot shapes, so you’re good to go from the moment you lace up. And when it’s time to push off, the bouncy Helion™ superfoam gives you that extra kick. Every step feels effortless, yet dynamic.

      Looks Fast, Feels Fast

      The Cloudsurfer Next’s updated forefoot rocker pushes power to the front. Built for daily running, it’s light, cushioned and responsive. And feels fast too. Combined with Cloudsurfer cushioning for an effortless feeling, put simply, it makes faster running feel easier. Inspired by the design of our race-day shoes (Silhouette inspired by our pinnacle race-day shoes) the engineered woven upper provides a seamless fit.

      READ MORE: Start Strong With On Running SA

      Next Level Comfort

      Modelled on the top race-day shoes, the updated Cloudsurfer Next upper is engineered ultralight. Highly breathable, its woven mesh hugs your feet for a comfortable and secure ride. As you pick up pace, rubber pads on the outsole grip the road.

      Explore the world of effortless and dynamic running with the Cloudsurfer Next. To learn more about their shoes and apparel, visit tifosisports.co.za and join the conversations on Facebook and Instagram.

      **WH Partnership More

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      5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

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      Raise your hand if you’ve been a victim of this? We’ve all done it, promise. Running shoes should not be chosen based on colour, sale price or even the size you think you are (you’re generally half a size bigger). If you happen to have bought the wrong running shoes, don’t keep wearing them! You will only end up hurting yourself and “hate running”. Here’s how to know when to let the wrong shoes go…

      1. You have to keep adjusting your running shoes

      Look, running never feels amazing for the first couple kms. Your body takes a bit of time to warm up and find its rhythm. However, if you have to keep adjusting the shoe, retying the laces and in general trying to make the shoe feel “more comfortable” that is not ideal. If any part of your foot goes numb or there is chafing or if you develop “sore spots” the shoe most likely does not fit you the way it should.

      2. Your running shoes never “break in”

      There’s a theory that new running shoes need to be broken in. The truth is, running shoes are not like your sleek new stilettos. And you should not be okay with constant blistering. Your running shoes should be comfortable right away! However, they will be the most comfortable two to three weeks into owning them. That’s when the cushioning begins to respond and adapt to your foot strike pattern. The upper will also start to fit and flex to your foot.

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

      3. There’s fraying on the inside heel

      Early breakdown of the heel is an example of wearing the wrong size shoe. For example, your ankle keeps pushing out and causes friction on the run. You can try correct this by retying your shoelaces to provide greater support, preventing the heel and ankle from “escaping the shoe”.

      4. Side wear and tear on your running shoes

      If your shoe sole is still in great/newish condition, but the sides of the shoes start wearing through, it could mean you’re wearing the wrong size shoe. Often we measure by length, but width is also important and there are certain shoes better suited to wider or more narrow feet.

      5. Black toenails

      You should not be getting a black toenail or losing toenails for any distance under a marathon (even then, not cool).

      What causes black toenails? When the tip of the nail bed repeatedly interacts with the front wall or top of the shoe it causes bruising. This leads to blistering and the nail lifting off the bed.

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

      It’s not your running shoes, it’s your socks!

      Lower-cut socks can also wear down the inside cushioning and material before their time, so consider higher-length socks if you start to notice the back of the shoe coming undone. Not wearing the right socks can also cause blisters.

      How To Prevent Buying the Wrong Shoe

      Visit a proper running store (not just your local sports shop) and get your feet analysed before buying a pair of shoes.

      You need to check your gait, your arch, your foot size and whether you might have a pronation of sorts.

      Get the right shoe(s) for the type of running you’re doing. Some shoes are made for short, sharp running and others are designed for marathon distances. They give you different kinds of support and bounce. More

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      PUMA Just Dropped The New Deviate NITRO™ 3 And It’s Pure Speed

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      PUMA just launched their latest innovation, and trust us, this will be the GOAT of running shoes. The Deviate NITRO™ 3 is here to challenge you to the most successful training experience ever. It’s your everyday source of speed, reliable week after week, mile after mile. And can we just take a moment to appreciate that stunning colour fade? Because who doesn’t love a beautiful running shoe? Said no one ever.

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

      Engineered For Speed

      The Deviate NITRO™ 3 is packed with even more of PUMA’s cutting-edge NITROFOAM™ technology to deliver supreme cushion and responsiveness. It’s the next evolution of its award-winning predecessor, designed to push you beyond your limits.

      The carbon fibre PWR Plate ensures a smoother, more consistent speed, delivering an explosive toe-off that propels you forward. And with PUMA’s exceptional PUMAGRIP, you’ll get unmatched traction on any surface, even in the testing conditions.

      The lightweight engineered mesh upper comes with strategically placed PWR Tape for added support where you need it most, while a padded collar provides extra comfort and a snug fit. The Deviate NITRO™ 3 will enhance training experiences for people worldwide and continues to grow closer to its race day counterpart.

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

      The Deviate NITRO™ 3 Fireglow colourway is now available on PUMA.com, in PUMA Retail stores, Totalsports and Sportsmans Warehouse. For more information, please visit www.puma.com More

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      Ready To Get Fit? Tap Into The New Vitality Fitness Platform

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      Get ready to experience fitness like never before with Vitality Fitness! This first-of-its-kind exercise platform has officially launched in South Africa and is here to make your workout routine more exciting and accessible. Whether you’re eager to explore new classes and activities or looking to reap rewards for staying active, Vitality Fitness offers a groundbreaking way to achieve your health goals—all in one convenient place. You’ll be hitting those #fitnessgoals in no time!

      “According to the latest WHO research, one in three adults do not meet the recommended amount of physical activity, contributing to a significant disease burden. Building on over 25 years of experience in promoting physical activity and helping Vitality members get healthier, we are revolutionising the way our members exercise with the launch of Vitality Fitness – an integrated exercise ecosystem that caters to individual needs, both at the gym and beyond, giving Vitality members access to a broader range of exercise options,” Govender says.

      [embedded content]

      What’s In It For You?

      Vitality Fitness is packed with features that make getting active easier than ever:

      Browse, search and filter fitness facilities by location and activity type. Find and book the perfect workout with just a tap.

      Get two free visits to any facility in the Vitality Fitness network each month. Try out different activities and find what works best for you.

      Enjoy up to 75% off memberships at top gyms like Virgin Active and Planet Fitness. Activate your membership directly through the platform.

      Earn 100 Vitality points every day by staying active.

      Breaking Down Barriers

      “Through innovative, technology-driven solutions, we are breaking down barriers such as cost, access, and lack of motivation, making it easier for Vitality members to engage in physical activity and improve both their cardio fitness and overall health. I’m excited about the potential of these initiatives to transform lives, empowering our members to achieve their health and fitness goals more effectively than ever before,” Govender adds.

      Join Vitality Fitness today and take the first step towards a healthier, more active you. More

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      Cyclists, This New Device By Garmin Will Have You On The Edge Of Your Seat

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      With the Tour de France in full swing and the Tour de France Femme just around the corner, Garmin’s latest release couldn’t have come at a better time. Meet the Edge® 1050 – the brightest, smartest and most connected cycling computer Garmin has ever unleashed. Featuring in-ride messaging, competitions, hazard alerts and more, it’s designed to make every group ride fun and connected. You’ll always feel like part of the peloton.

      [embedded content]

      “We are excited to introduce our most capable, high-performing bike computer yet with the Edge 1050. Delivering an exceptional in-ride experience, superior navigation and community-focused features, our latest cycling computer is made to keep cyclists motivated—whether they’re planning a group ride with friends or a long, solo adventure.”
      Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales

      Prepare For Your Next Big Ride

      The Edge 1050 is loaded with advanced tools to help you dominate every ride. Free Garmin training plans deliver personalised workouts based on performance and recovery. Insights from Firstbeat Analytics™ like VO2 max, training status, heat and altitude acclimation and more can help cyclists evaluate their performance and see how their body is holding up, while features like cycling ability and course demands allow cyclists to compare their abilities to the demands of a specific course so they can focus their training in the right areas. 

      READ MORE: 32 Hours Of Ride Time! Where Will Your Garmin Edge Solar Take You?

      Maximise Performance

      Edge 1050 offers premium performance metrics to help you ride smarter. Real-time stamina insights help cyclists closely monitor and track their exertion levels, influencing training efforts and showing how much further they can maintain their current pace. ClimbPro shows ascent and grade details, and Climb Explore highlights nearby climbs. Advanced cycling dynamics provide riders with insights into their performance and mountain bike metrics, including jump count, jump distance, Grit® and Flow™, which help track every epic ride.

      Ride Safe, Stay Connected

      For added confidence during a ride, Edge 1050 includes safety features like LiveTrack and incident detection, and it’s compatible with the Varia™ line of cycling radars and smart lights, as well as inReach® satellite communicators. For year-round training, it easily pairs with Tacx® indoor smart trainers.

      Garmin Edge 1050

      From Saturday group rides to solo adventures, make every ride better with the Edge 1050 premium cycling computer.

      What Else Is New?

      GroupRide Enhancements: Stay in touch with in-ride messaging, live locations and incident detection alerts. Cyclists can also add some competition to their ride with in-ride leaderboards for climbs, plus witty post-ride awards, including Speed Racer (highest max speed), Chatterbox (most heavily using the GroupRide messaging feature), Worker Bee (most time spent pedalling) and more.

      Road Hazard Alerts: Get real-time alerts about potholes, fallen trees and more from your fellow cyclists, and contribute your own reports to keep everyone safe.

      Refreshed Design: Angled casing, all-metal buttons and a 3.5” liquid crystal display.

      Garmin Pay: Make quick, contactless payments during your rides.

      Built-In Speaker: Hear workout and navigation prompts and use the bike bell to alert others.

      On-Device Course Creator: Design routes directly on the touchscreen with various map overlays.

      Surface Type Alerts: Get notified about upcoming unpaved sections and see different roadway types.

      Ride-Specific Routing: Tailored navigation for mountain, gravel, or road rides.

      Map Manager with Wi-Fi®: Add, swap, or update maps easily via Wi-Fi.

      Ready to ride? Find the Edge® 1050 at garmin.com. More

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      32 Hours Of Ride Time! Where Will Your Garmin Edge Solar Take You?

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      You heard it right! Get set for an insane 32 hours of intense ride time or 60 hours in battery-saving mode with the Edge® 540 Solar, 840 Solar and 1040 Solar. Crush your training sessions and snag that QOM faster than ever. The best part? These solar versions keep you rolling longer between charges and offer personalised adaptive coaching, making them the ultimate gear for races or hitting personal milestones.

      Dominate Every Training Session

      These devices adapt to your goals and offer superior navigation, planning and training tools to enhance your performance with every ride.

      Choose Your Controls

      Edge 540 and 540 Solar feature intuitive buttons, while Edge 840 and 840 Solar offer both touchscreen and button controls.

      Ride Longer

      Get up to 26 hours of battery life in intense mode and up to 42 hours in battery saver mode. With Power Glass™ solar charging, the Edge 540 Solar and 840 Solar boost battery life to an impressive 60 hours in battery saver mode or up to 32 hours in intense mode. Gain an extra 25 minutes per hour from solar charging during daytime rides1.

      Tailored Training

      Compare your cycling abilities to specific course demands and focus your training where it counts. Daily suggested workouts and personalised coaching adapt to your training load and recovery, ensuring you’re race-ready2.

      ClimbPro Ascent Planner

      See remaining ascent and grade to manage your effort efficiently. Available on every ride, whether on your Edge device or through the Garmin Connect™ app on your smartphone.

      Power Guide & Stamina Insights

      Get recommended power targets throughout your course and monitor how much longer you can push it.

      READ MORE: Epic Rides From The Comfort Of Home With The New Garmin Smart Bike

      Navigation for Every Terrain

      Enhanced Accuracy: Multi-band GNSS technology provides superior positioning accuracy.

      Tailored Maps: Ride like a local with ride-type-specific maps highlighting popular roads and trails, plus searchable points of interest.

      Streamlined Setup: Access the info, courses and tools you need quickly and easily, and adjust data fields from your Edge device or paired smartphone.

      Seamless Integration: Pair with your favourite apps and platforms, including Strava, Komoot, TrainingPeaks3 and more through the Garmin Connect app.

      Get Ready to Ride Smarter

      So, gear up and introduce the rider you are today to the one you’ll be tomorrow. Embrace the edge and ride on.

      Garmin Edge® 540 Solar

      Garmin Edge® 840 Solar

      Garmin Edge® 1040 Solar

      References:

      **WH Partnership More

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      5 Hacks To Boost Your Running Performance With Reebok’s FloatZig 1

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      Running isn’t just about endurance and speed. It’s about joy, creativity, and sometimes, a little bit of mischief. In celebration of the joy of the run, Reebok launched its Running Hacks global campaign for the new FloatZig 1.

      “The FloatZig 1 running shoes offer industry-leading performance and energy return, suited for even the most elite runners, but built to be accessible and enjoyable for all runners. With both our product and within our irreverent Running Hacks global marketing campaign, we focused on the joy and excitement running can bring to all.”
      Todd Krinsky, Reebok President and CEO

      Reebok dares you to lace up and embrace running like you never have before. Forget those tired old tips your marathon-obsessed uncle swears by. Reebok’s Running Hacks are about tossing the rulebook out the window and making every run an adventure.

      So strap in, lace up, and prepare to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

      Running Hack #1: Make it Home Before Load Shedding

      It’s almost like racing against the sunset. Except instead of a romantic sky, you’re dodging sitting in the dark, unable to charge your phone, boil water, or see the end of that episode. Consider this the ultimate interval training—sprint in bursts whenever you think of the food defrosting in your freezer. And hey, if you get home after the lights have gone out, just keep running to your nearest bar. After all, you didn’t run all this way not to get a reward.

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

      Running Hack #2: Tell Everyone You’re Training for the Comrades

      Short of actually winning it, telling everyone you’re training for this epic ultramarathon is the next best thing. Start casually dropping it into conversations, social media posts and even put it in your LinkedIn bio. The key here is confidence. A lot of it. And if by some miracle you actually find yourself at the starting line, that’s a problem for Future You.

      Running Hack #3: Run Past Your Ex’s House

      Ah, the sweet, sweet revenge run. There’s no fuel quite like a broken heart, and no audience quite like the one that thought they’d seen the last of you. Bonus points if you manage a nonchalant wave to their neighbours, just to prove how utterly unaffected you are by the breakup. This isn’t about them, though (okay, it’s a little about them)—it’s about you, looking and feeling your absolute best, powered by a blend of spite, endorphins, and the sheer joy of moving on.

      Running Hack #4: The FloatZig 1

      Forget about the conventional running hacks you know (and the ones you wish you didn’t).

      The FloatZig 1 is here to revolutionise your run with features designed to push the boundaries of what a running shoe can be.

      Highlights of the FloatZig 1 include:

      Floatride Energy Foam & Zig Tech Technology: Offers a lightweight, responsive energy return, transforming every step into a leap towards your personal best.

      Engineered Mesh Upper with Reflective Overlays: Maximises breathability and ensures visibility, keeping you safe and comfortable, day or night.

      Targeted Foam Panels: Strategically placed for added comfort and a secure fit, enabling you to focus on the joy of the run.

      READ MORE: The Ultimate Accessory To Your Active Lifestyle —Reebok Cool Your Body

      Running Hack #5: If You Look Awesome, You Run Awesome!

      Let’s face it, when you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you run like a champion! Snag these essentials for your next run:

      Reebok Floatzig 1 Shoes

      Running Quarter-Zip Jacket

      Running Vector Leggings

      ID Train High-Support Bra

      RBK-FRESH Athlete T-Shirt 2.0

      Reebok Running Shorts

      Ready to outrun your shadows, outlast the gossip and outpace the past? The FloatZig 1 is your ticket to discovering the New Shape of Running. Shop the FloatZig 1 on Reebok.co.za.

      **WH Partnership More

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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