The Running Trainers To Buy, According To The Experts
Alex Rogers, director of Chelsea Fitness Club
HIGH END: Reebok HIIT Shoes, £74.95
These are the perfect shoes for high intensity training. The inside sock holds your foot nicely for optimum support for higher-impact activity, and there’s a decent amount of super lightweight cushioning to supercharge your run, too.
LOW END: Reebok Zig Kinetica, £53.97 (were £89.95)
There’s a lot to love about this affordable trainer – as well as a large impact sole, which cushions the feet and protects the ankles, knees and hips when pounding the pavement, they are also easy to clean – ideal for muddy park runs. They also come in lots of colours and if you look around online, you can often get them for as little as £40.
Visit ChelseaFitnessClub.co.uk and follow Alex @ChelseaFitnessClub
Anya Lahiri, Barry’s Bootcamp master trainer
HIGH END: Brooks Ghost 13, £106 (were £130)
Brooks specialises in running gear, and these trainers won’t disappoint – they are the best running shoe for a neutral stride. I’m never without a pair and often use them on the treadmill at Barry’s on the days I am pushing hard. They have enough support to get you through any run and are great for longer distances, too, if that’s your thing.
LOW END: Nike Pegasus, £104.95
These Nike heroes are another personal favourite and are also great for a neutral runner with no pronation. The lightweight upper provides incredible breathability and the pared-down, perfectly placed padding helps eliminate hot spots, making them the perfect choice if you’re a sweaty runner. They’ll also double up for HIIT sessions and outdoor walking.
Visit Barrys.com and follow Anya @AnyaLahiri
Kira Mahal, founder of Motivate PT
HIGH END: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit, €160
I’ve been wearing Nike’s Flyknits for years and love the support they provide during a workout, keeping you stable and secure. The shape of the midsole ensures your whole foot stride feels sleek and controlled, and the rubber sole provides great traction underfoot.
LOW END: Asics Gel Contend 5, £38.50 (were £55)
These trainers are seriously great value for the quality. They fit comfortably and are really supportive, with a great grip for different surfaces – ideal for winter training. These shoes are a great choice if you’re new to running and aren’t quite ready to invest in a higher-end trainer but still want something that’s supportive and will see you through the miles.
Visit MotivatePT.co.uk
Suzie Cave, current British triathle champion
HIGH END: 361 Strata 4, £134.95
Keen runners will love these trainers – they are so comfortable and support me on all of my long and easy runs. Since using them, I no longer get blisters or foot pain and they are great for on and off-road running. They also feature clever tech, such as an improved lacing system to ensure the tongue won’t move while you’re running and have a great fit around the midfoot for optimal comfort.
LOW END: 361 Degrees Fierce, £99.99
You get the best of both worlds with this trainer – speed and comfort. They’re light and swift with great rebound for faster-paced runs, yet cushioned and comfortable enough for slower, steady recovery runs. Once gyms re-open, they’re also a great choice to pack in your gym bag for indoor use.
Follow Suzie @Suziebear_Cave
Heidi Quine, trainer at OneTrack Run Club
HIGH END: On Cloudflow, £130
On make some incredible trainers with an innovative edge and these are my go-to for longer distances. Big on cushioning and low on weight, the Cloudflow is made for speed and comfort, and is the trainer of choice for many elite athletes. When I wear these on a long run or on race day, I find they give me the confidence to push my pace towards the final few minutes – it’s all about the high-tech soles and cushioning.
LOW END: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, £60 (were £120)
I enjoy the spring in my step every time I wear these trainers – they provide so much bounce off the ground, making them ideal for speed-focused sessions and racing. Due to their slightly tighter fit, they aren’t a trainer I would race longer than a half marathon in, but they are a top choice for beginner to intermediate runners.
Visit OneTrack.Club and follow Heidi @HeidiQT1
Jane Vongvorachoti, PT at Equinox and 2016 Olympic marathon runner
HIGH END: Saucony Endorphin Speed, £155
For neutral runners that don’t need as much support in the midfoot but still want a bit of bounce, these Saucony trainers are a top choice. Intelligent tech means your feet feel less tired, enabling you to take your training to new levels, and an always-forward design creates a propulsive ride to push you on, even when you’re working at maximum effort.
LOW END: New Balance 1080, £135
I am a neutral runner with slightly flat feet and have previously had issues with plantar fasciitis, so I need more support in my midfoot. The New Balance 1080s tick all the boxes in this respect, and are great for track and shorter runs. For ultimate comfort, don’t forget to wear proper wicking socks to prevent blisters and always buy your trainers at least half a size bigger – your toes need some wiggle room.
Visit Equinox.com and follow Jane @JaneRuns4Life
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