Aah, trainers. We’ve come a long way from canvas and rubber — fancy footwear means a weightlifting shoe is markedly different from a running shoe.
Plus, innovative fabrics and design make these the most important items in your gym bag. Here, the fresh new kicks you need, ASAP, tried and tested by WH staffers.
Running
Puma Speed 600 Ignite V2
Best for: Long distance runs
The tech: New mesh upper makes for a lighter run than before, plus the IGNITE foam means the force of you pounding the pavement is dispersed upon landing.
We say: Food and managing ed Amy Hopkins ran a 14km in them. “They’re super-comfy and I felt like I could have run much further in them. The breathability of the updated version is great but mainly they are just so comfortable for long distance running. Also, good responsiveness.“
Asics fuzeX Rush
Best for: Urban running
The tech: Flexy and bouncy, the Asics fuzeGEL in the midsole provides the cushioning and support.
We say: It’s really pretty, with a much cleaner design than the previous FuseX shoe. Art Director Michelle von Schlicht took them for a ride through Cape Town’s underground tunnels. “These new kicks are so slick – water didn’t damage the shoe, and it lends itself to lots of bounding and bouncing – much lighter and more flexible than the FuseX.”
Training
Puma Fierce Strap Swan
Best for: Functional training with lateral movements
The tech: The strap around the ankle is a major bonus to people with weak ankles doing weight training or plyometrics. There’s also an added rubber outsole that supports the ankle. The front of the shoe is thiner and more flexible for pivoting movements – something important since the shoe is designed with New York City ballerinas in mind.
We say: Deputy editor Wanita Nicol took them on in New York with the NYC ballerinas. (!!!!)”I love that you can wear it with your jeans after your workout. The ankle stability is great – plus you can easily slip it on and off if you’re the kind of person who does handstand training, like me.”
adidas CrazyTrain Bounce Shoes
Best for: Functional training with loads of movement
The tech: Extra padding around the ankle, meshy uppers for breathability and a BOUNCE sole means this shoe is an all-rounder for squats and jumping movements.
We say: Deputy ed Wanita Nicol trained in them. “They’re super comfy, light and flexi – and look great with jeans post-workout. Not much ankle support, but good stability in the soles, so great for functional.“
Not sure you need new workout shoes? Here are three signs that’ll help you to figure out if you should trade in your trainers.
