In the absence of football – and any team sport for that matter – we’re all left looking for alternative ways to fill our one bit of freedom from the house. And with the government’s strict rulings that any exercise must be from your front door, many of us are turning to good old fashioned running.
Pounding the pavement can be a cathartic release that we all need right now. Exercise is proven to release positive endorphins, while it’s also important to remind yourself during this period of self isolation that there is, in fact, still a world out there. The sudden boom in runners has brought out people of all abilities and levels, some who may never have gone for a run in their life (we’ve all got one of those on our team) and others that simply aren’t equipped to effectively get those miles in. And because running on concrete in a pair of footy boots is just no good (trust us), we’ve rounded up the best pairs of running shoes currently available at Pro:Direct. So whether you’re considering venturing out for the first time, or you’re a regular marathoner, we've covered all bases.
Nike Joyride Dual Run
Clues in the name right off the bat here. And no, we don’t mean nick a car with your mate then both leg it after. Social distancing, remember? The Joyride Dual Run brings cushioning different to anything you’ve tried before. It has two strategically placed pockets underneath the foot, with tiny foam beads that move around like tiny high-tech bean bags for your feet. We’re not joking. This one is not for the high-miler though; it’s more of a beginner to mid-level.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit
While we don’t want to get too technical, if you find that your foot rolls inwards or outwards at all when you walk and run, it could mean you need more mid-foot support, and the React Infinity Run Flyknit could be the shoe for you. With added React foam in the midsole, you get a supportive base to push off from, while the Flyknit upper provides a lightweight, supportive fit.
adidas UltraBoost S.RDY
Ramping the optimism levels up to maximum for some warmer weather ahead, the adidas UltraBoost Summer Ready features a full energy-returning Boost midsole along with an upper so breathable that the panels are almost transparent. So don’t go out wearing those Mickey Mouse socks your mum got you for Christmas.
Nike Zoom Gravity
Coming in at under a tonne, the Zoom Gravity is an excellent entry level shoe. Yep, if you’re new to the world of running that’s not after a ball, this shoe could be the one for you providing speed and propulsion thanks to a forefoot Zoom Air unit.
adidas AlphaEdge 4D Run 1.0
Proper next level this one. The uber-comfortable Primeknit upper features Forgefibre to provide support, and it sits on top of the futuristic one-piece midsole. It looks like that because of its open structure design, which offers a responsive performance. You’re paying a bit more for this type of shoe, but you get your money’s worth.
Nike Epic React Flyknit 2
A cracking all-rounder, this. If you're a stickler for tradition and you've yet to try a knitted boot on pitch, see what you're missing with these. While the Nike React foam underfoot provides great cushioning and comfort, the Flyknit upper moulds to your foot. And it’s all wrapped up in a look that you could combine with most spring styles, so good for running, but equally easy to transition to an all day wear.
adidas Ultraboost PB
PB, as in personal best. Tells you most of what you need to know with this one. The Ultraboost PB features adidas’s most light weight mesh upper ever. And again, it’s on a Boost midsole for that extra comfort and energy return.
Nike Zoom Fly 3
Again, this one is more for an accomplished runner, although don’t be deterred if you fancy upping your game. The main talking point with the Zoom Fly 3 is the Carbon fibre plate in the React midsole, which adds a propulsive snap to your step.
adidas AlphaBoost
Another one for beginners, the AlphaBoost is something of an all-rounder. Fine for shorter runs or even for the gym or cross-fit. Y’know, once all this self-isolation stuff has blown over. Its understated and sleek blackout aesthetics make it an easy one to wear at anytime too, which is an added bonus.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36
The Air Zoom Pegasus is an absolute classic, and we’ve picked a look that’s about as far from the understated look of the AlphaBoost as is possible. Wild. It boasts a full length Zoom Air unit and Cushion ST foam, making it a super-comfortable ride, no matter the distance. Just depends on whether that design is for you…
Nike React Miler
One for longer distances, the React Miler offers a breathable mesh upper, a full rubber outsole and a responsive React midsole to take the strain off when you’re clocking higher mileage.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next Percent
The mack-daddy. The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next Percent comes with a fairly hefty price tag when compared to the rest on this list. But there’s a reason for that. This is a shoe for proper dedicated runners. Designed with input from elite runners such as Eliud Kipchoge and Shalene Flanagan, it features incredibly lightweight and responsive ZoomX cushioning and a carbon fibre plate, but with 15 percent more foam. The show also sees the debut of Vaporweave, which is lighter than Flyknit and absorbs less water, ensuring it stays light no matter how long your run is. Absolute belter.
But you're not restricted to what we've listed above, obviously. Check out Pro:Direct's full range of running shoes here.
