New year, new gear! Running shoes to get you moving in 2015
The start of January is a popular time for the release of the latest and greatest running shoes, and, with new innovations, you can expect this year’s models to have even more cushion while being lighter-weight than past years. As far as style goes, bright bursts of color are gaining a second wind and will remain majorly popular in 2015.
Ready to hit the ground (or trail!) running in a new pair of shoes? Here are some of our new faves.
Fits like a glove (for your foot)
Arch a little higher on one foot than the other? Convinced your left foot is a ¼-inch longer than your right? No problem. The Asics Gel-Kayano 21 running shoe, $159.95 at Nordstrom, is an ideal shoe if you struggle finding a perfect fit. FluidFit upper technology on the shoe adapts to your feet for a one-of-a-kind, glove-like fit. The midsole offers cushioning for a stable run.
For roadrunners
Get that cushy trail running feel even when you’re pounding the pavement with Hoka One Clifton running shoes, $130, for both men and women at REI. The midsoles feature a foam that is 30 percent softer than traditional running shoe foam, yet two and a half times more voluminous—lessening the shock when your feet hit the concrete. A size seven women’s shoe weighs just 6.6 ounces and a size nine men’s shoe (above) weighs 7.7 ounces.
Blaze new trails
Conquer even the toughest trails in these women’s Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 2 shoes, $124.99 from Foot Locker. A sticky rubber in the center of the forefoot adds traction for wet surfaces and lugs help with enhancing grip in all conditions. What we love best, about this shoe, though? A 4mm drop places your foot in a natural position, which creates a stable, smooth run and gives you that barefoot-like feel. For men, get a grip with these Inov-8 Footwear Trailroc 245 shoes, $130 at REI, that are lightweight and fast, and, with rubber compounds on the bottom and deep lugs, you’ll keep your traction in the mud, on the rocks and through slippery terrain.