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RUNNING BUYER’S GUIDE

1 guide cover.indd 1 24/11/2017 15:35 WELCOME AND CONTENTS SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE

HEN I started to run around 40 years ago, the selection of running available was rather limited. The models sale were also GREATER Wvery much ‘variations on a theme’. Nowadays there is a dazzling array of brands and models available, each one suitable for a particular surface and type of running gait. In this guide, I aim to explain the differences in various models and how to go about finding the best shoe for your feet and running style. However, just as with running, reading EVERY about it will only get you so far. So, armed with the knowledge from within these pages, visit your local running specialist, try the shoes and see for yourself.

Paul Freary Product Reviewer, Athletics Weekly RUN @runningshoeguru 4 CHOOSE YOUR SHOES 18 SPEEDFACTORY How to find the right footwear for you The shape of things to come in 6 ULTRABOOST ALL-TERRAIN footwear technology The latest adidas shoe, fit for any surface 20 CITY RUN New 10k events for 8 TRAIL SHOES The best off-road options 22 LYNSEY SHARP The two-time Olympian on part two of her 10 SUPPORT SHOES career, big changes and her favourite kit Take control of your running 26 SHOE EVOLUTION How running footwear has developed 12 NEUTRAL SHOES over the decades Finding the right balance 30 RECORD RUNS 14 RACING SHOES How the marathon world record has The models to help up your speed progressed in recent years ULTRABOOST ALL TERRAIN

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2 Adidas guide - All-terrain ad.indd 1 24/11/2017 15:19 3 Adidas guide - Welcome/contents.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:41 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE CHOOSING YOUR SHOES

A neutral shoe usually has cushioning of a single Racing shoes are super light FINDING THE RIGHT density throughout with a minimalist design SHOE FOR YOU Where to start? period of weeks and give your body Running is a dynamic movement and time to make adjustments. one in which all of the body’s weight hits Perhaps the best way to choose the ground, on a single foot, with a far your new shoes would be to visit a greater impact than standing still. specialist running store which offers a The way in which your foot moves video analysis service. forward during its contact with the Here, the staff will be ground is dictated by the foot’s flexibility able to film you and not necessarily its shape. This running in various explains why the often quoted ‘wet foot shoe types and test’ can be misleading. explain the difference What’s your type? and the effect each has on How can you tell exactly how your your running gait. This gives MANUFACTURERS classify shoes into These shoes are designed to foot moves as you are running? you a great opportunity various types, designed to complement reduce the amount the foot pronates The easiest method would be to get a to at yourself running your foot type and running gait. or rolls inwards. friend to run behind you and observe and examine, as well as feel, the The support comes in the form of the way in which your foot lands and difference at first hand. Neutral or cushioned shoes a firmer density of cushioning material rolls forward, checking for any sideways Designed for runners with a neutral foot on the medial (inside edge, under the motion. Or, run on a treadmill and get strike, these shoes provide cushioning, arch of the foot) of the shoe. You can someone to film you. usually of a similar density throughout often identify a more supportive model If your foot rolls inwards, a the width and length of the shoe. by feeling the firmer medial side of the supportive or control shoe will reduce The cushioning material used shoe. this roll and, if the shoe is keeping to the can vary, with new materials and outer lateral edge of the foot, a more technologies being introduced all Racers flexible or neutral model should help. the time that provide higher shock Primarily designed to be as light Of course, you should consider absorbing qualities or more energy as possible. Often with just a little other factors when buying new shoes. return. cushioning material between your Trail shoes offer deeper studs for Are your current shoes suitable, do foot and the road, the shoes are extra grip when running off-road you have any injuries and what do you Support or control shoes stripped down to reduce weight. need from new shoes? more cushioning in a marathon shoe This category can be confusing, with Consider the distance of race you You should always remember that, than if your usual distance is 5k. manufacturers having several terms most often compete at when choosing when changing from one shoe type for the amount of ‘support’ or ‘control’ a a shoe; you’ll most likely want a little to another, there will be an adaptation Trail shoes shoe provides. period to adjust to the dynamics of the As a rule of thumb with trail shoes, new shoe. Break new shoes in over a the more grip the shoe has, the less The darker, highlighted section cushioning. After all, when running of the cushioning provides the Terms to look out for: Under-pronation of the heel then rolls inwards until it on the soft, muddy ground that support under the arch In a more rigid foot, as it hits the is in a relatively straight line with the necessitates deep studs, cushioning of the foot Pronation ground on the outer side of the heel, lower leg. won’t be an issue. When the foot strikes the ground it rolls the foot stays on the outer edge as it Consider the trails you most often inwards, through the space created rolls forward. Over-pronation run on, the distance you cover and the by the arch, to absorb the impact After landing on the outside edge of amount of cushioning required. and shock. The flexibility of the foot will Neutral the heel, and due to the higher degree If you tend to stay on gravel dictate the amount it rolls. The foot lands on the outside edge of flexibility in the foot, it rolls inwards. footpaths you may not need as much grip as your fell running friend.

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4-5 Adidas guide - Choose your shoes.indd 2 24/11/2017 15:52 4-5 Adidas guide - Choose your shoes.indd 3 24/11/2017 15:52 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE ULTRABOOST ALL-TERRAIN

adidas – Ultraboost All-Terrain £169.99 adidas.co.uk

THE latest addition to the Ultraboost cushioning and energy return athletes family lets you make the most of the have become used to from the autumnal weather. material, but it’s here in a trail running Updating the extremely popular model that its additional benefits Ultraboost shoe with design features become apparent. to withstand the most unpredictable The unique Boost material is conditions, the latest model can take unaffected by variation in temperature you anywhere whilst offering premium and moisture levels, making it a perfect levels of comfort and protection. choice for seasonal running in a wide A new splash resistant Primeknit range of conditions. upper adds warmth and comfort to the The midsole stores and returns shoe, meaning that even the rain can’t energy step after step to provide a stop you enjoying your run. responsive feel. The flexibility of the The knitted, stretch construction shoe is such that it’s adaptive to the provides high levels of comfort and surface and provides a consistent gives a sock-like fit from the moment and competent level of feel with every you pull the shoes on. The higher, single stride. bootie style gives the impression of a Traction shouldn’t be overlooked seamless junction between your foot in a trail shoe and here a Continental and the shoe, as well as helping to rubber outsole provides class- keep loose debris at bay on the trails. leading levels of grip on any surface it The gender specific upper sees encounters. a unique adaptive arch construction Regardless of the conditions, the mould to the contours of the foot. In shoe provides a reassuringly high level the ladies’ model this provides of grip to keep you moving forward. The additional support to the naturally lower lugged outsole pattern is consistent volume of the midfoot for a consistent across the entire outsole, meaning locked-down fit. impact is distributed evenly and The Boost smoothly to provide midsole in traction on the the shoe roads just as well offers the as it does on the same high trails. levels of

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6-7 Adidas guide - All-terrain.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:02 6-7 Adidas guide - All-terrain.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:02 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE TRAIL SHOES

adidas – Kanadia 7 construction. You can now venture across any terrain with the added confidence of keeping your feet dry and Trail GTX £79.95 warm. With this widening your choice of possible running HIT THE TRAILS adidas.co.uk routes, the Traxion outsole delivers optimal grip and traction to keep you on track. fitting, upper that many customers have been asking for. The FOR many athletes, the first specific trail shoe they ever Hoka – Speedgoat 2 £114.99 The lightweight midsole is low profile, so offers a upper uses plusher fabrics and has a slightly softer feel to its used was the Kanadia. It has been around for over 15 hokaoneone.eu stable footing and works well with the rugged outsole. make-up but, with rubberised overlays, the durability remains years and its popularity grew thanks to great grip and a As well as the Gore-Tex lining to the upper, it and makes a good compromise between comfort and very competitive price. AN update to the brand’s first uses a lightweight mesh construction with stronger protection. This version sees the addition of a Gore-Tex upper, off-roader, the Speedgoat reinforcements around the lacing and rearfoot. This A Vibram outsole provides the traction and whilst the shoe is still well below the £100 price point. retains a similarly aggressive provides support as well as making the shoe durable even with the deep, rather aggressive, lugs the The Gore-Tex is a revelation at this price and instantly outsole for traction and and able to tackle the terrain you are bound to test it on. shoe feels comfortable on all but the very elevates the shoe’s appeal thanks to the makes improvements firmest of trails. waterproof and breathable upper elsewhere in the l Waterproof Gore-Tex upper With an ultra-running background shoe. l Go-anywhere grip the Speedgoat certainly has a feel of The deep l Exceptional value for money providing day-long comfort and with cushioning loved by the new upper and cushioning it Hoka fans remains, should be able to accompany you but now it takes on everywhere you venture. a form closer to that of the other shoes within the l Deep cushioning but range. lightweight It could easily be passed off l Long distance as being closer to the popular Clifton grip and than the original Speedgoat and that’s no protection bad thing as the shoe feels a little softer and l Vibram, accommodating. multi-surface Gone is the pointy toe box of the first generation traction model and now we have a more spacious, better

The upper has a seamless construction with an inner Scott – Kinbalu Supertrac £110 – Koa ST 2 £120 scott-sports.com saucony.com stretch fabric section that holds the foot securely. Whilst not waterproof, we found the shoe held up pretty well DESPITE the deep cushioning in this model (29mm in the heel, 21mm to splashing through puddles and mud, thanks to the WITH deep 8mm studs, grip is exceptional in this shoe. in the forefoot) it manages to retain a feel of being low profile. This is rubberised outer part of the upper that provides a durable Cushioning and comfort are often compromised with such probably due to the unique gentle rocker shape to the shoe, layer of protection. A drawstring system holds the shoe in traction, but that’s not the case here. With 22mm of cushioning which rolls the foot forward through the running gait. place and its particularly welcome in very muddy conditions, in the rearfoot, dropping to 18mm under the forefoot, the shoe The outsole uses deep but soft lugs that allowing easy and quick adjustment. feels soft and plush. The Everun topsole construction (a layer offer great traction without being of soft yet responsive cushioning that sits under the shoe’s too harsh. Even on stretches l Deep lugs for great grip insole) helps to give it that plush feel and although of road, the outsole feels l High performance cushioning the lugs are deep, they aren’t too accommodating enough to l Close-fitting and stiff, so have a little ‘give’ allow you to concentrate on protective upper on firmer ground. running rather than searching With a heel drop and for a softer surface. When midsole cushioning that’s you do get off-road the shoe similar to other shoes in the comes into its own, locking brand’s range, they quickly onto soft and loose surfaces and giving you endless confidence. feel familiar and responsive, A soft and lightweight mesh upper is highly breathable and, with its all-round grip and the sole’s studs acting like road-shoe like cushioning, the Kinabalu is perfect for multi-surface adventures this winter. teeth, biting into the ground with a reassuring feel. l Deep grip with multi-surface comfort l Road shoe-like cushioning l Long distance comfort and traction

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8-9 Adidas guide - trail shoes.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:06 8-9 Adidas guide - trail shoes.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:07 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE SUPPORT SHOES

neat fit around the rear of the foot. The external heel counter Asics – Gel Kayano 24 £150 .com again improves the heel fit and, with cut-away sections, there’s no chance of rubbing or irritation. The medial support is integrated neatly into the midsole GOOD SUPPORT A LONG-TIME favourite with many runners, the Kayano and the layered design ensures it provides great support for offers a blend of cushioning and support that’s great for over-pronators without being at all intrusive. It’s a luxurious fit coming from a dual density boost midsole. The energised everyday training. adidas – Ultra Boost ST and feel and should make all the winter miles comfortable cushioning gives an added dimension to a control shoe The use of the brand’s latest Flytefoam cushioning sees and enjoyable. £149.95 adidas.co.uk to make this model smooth and stable yet able to control the weight reduced, making the shoe easy to pull on and go. overpronation effectively. Gel still plays a major part in adding to the cushioning THE Boost midsole cushioning material has been the l Good combination of cushioning and support The initial contact with the ground is soft and highly properties of the Kayano and it features both in the sensation of the running industry for the last few years, l Light without sacrificing control shock absorbing while the support quickly becomes heel and forefoot to with athletes enjoying the smooth and highly responsive l Plush construction for a great fit effective to take control of any inward roll. From then on it’s nature of the innovation since its launch. increase the shock a smooth ride through to the toe-off, which takes place Now those requiring support can absorption and with the familiar zip of the Boost midsole. benefit from the same qualities overall durability of For the smoothest riding support shoe around, this but with the control they require the shoe. model is light, fast and responsive. Improvements to the upper of this l Boost cushioning combined with support version of the see l Knitted upper for a great fit a slightly lower l Responsive feel, ready to push heel collar and a the pace new lining that’s both seamless and plush for a

On – Cloudflyer £130 on-running.com

THE unique look of these shoes certainly makes them stand out from Saucony – Omni 16 £120 the crowd and, if you’re saucony.com looking for something a little different that still FOR those needing a little more provides good cushioning control for over-pronation, the and support, they may fit Omni offers it in a smooth riding the bill. model that still offers enough The Cloudflyer is not cushioning for the high mileage the most controlling athlete. shoe around, so severe The support comes from over-pronators would be a medial post as well as a better suited elsewhere, but for redesigned outsole that, those requiring a stable, mildly supportive shoe thanks to its shape, manages to they’d be a good option. as a road racer, making running at any pace enjoyable. guide the foot forward whilst retaining it Cushioning comes from the ‘clouds’ that make up the The upper design is neat, with an accurate fit that you’d in a stable manner without losing any of its flexibility. the foot neatly and seamlessly. It’s a great option for those length of the midsole, each differing slightly in shape and size expect from a Swiss-designed shoe. Attention to detail is The brand’s Everun cushioning material offers a seeking support without the weight or firmness often found in to offer varying degrees of cushioning and control. As the obvious throughout the shoe, too. It’s well constructed and fits durable yet responsive ride and with it’s additional layer of a control shoe. foot strikes the ground and rolls forward, each cloud works beautifully. the hi-tech cushioning sitting directly beneath the shoes independently to offer a smooth riding sensation that soaks insole, it creates a soft, plush ride that’s unexpected in such l High-level support with responsive cushioning up the miles. l Smooth yet stable ride supportive shoe. l Durable high mileage option Flexibility is excellent throughout this model thanks to the l Neat, accurate fit The upper has a simple yet supportive design that wraps l Responsive enough for faster runs nature of the design and the shoe remains as responsive l Well designed

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10-11 Adidas guide - support.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:13 10-11 Adidas guide - support.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:13 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE NEUTRAL SHOES

adidas – Energy Boost stretch mesh that wraps the foot with a supportive and adaptive, sock-like seamless fit. £129.99 Midfoot support comes from the brand’s STAY NEUTRAL adidas.co.uk three-stripes, which integrate into the upper and lock the Brooks – Levitate £140 foot in place as well as joining with the heel counter. BENEFITING from the Boost midsole cushioning, this shoe This moulded heel counter gives a very natural brooksrunning.com combines the soft, responsive material with a layer of fit around the rear of the foot and allows for optimal traditional CM-EVA for a more stable, yet still neutral, ride. IN THE quest for shoes with responsive and ‘spring-like’ qualities to movement of the Achilles without any pressure or While the Boost midsole alone undoubtedly offers their midsoles, Brooks have joined the party with the Levitate. irritation. exceptional shock absorbing qualities, some athletes As their marketing says, this model offers ‘infinite energy.’ Whilst The 10mm heel drop from the 32mm rearfoot means prefer a slightly firmer ride and here we have the best that’s a rather bold claim, the shoe does indeed feel very ‘springy’ cushioning is maxed out to make this a shoe capable of of both worlds. and as such offers a highly cushioned, plush running experience. eating up the miles week after week. The shoe’s upper has a four-way, engineered The polyurethane that makes up most of the midsole cushioning has been encapsulated within a thermoplastic ‘skin’; l Stable, neutral high mileage shoe this essentially aims to contain the energy and spring the l Boost cushioning midsole back into shape, thus giving it it’s responsive feel. l Engineered fit The shoe isn’t as light as many of its competitors but as a high mileage, everyday trainer it has a satisfying feel to its construction. Like many shoes these days we see a knitted upper. Here it’s very accommodating, managing to provide a snug fit to all our l Plush, responsive feel testers regardless of their foot width. l Durable cushioning As a high-mileage trainer, l Well-made upper this shoe would be a great choice for the long winter miles this season.

Reebok – Harmony Road £89.95 – Fresh Foam It’s a well-cushioned shoe and has the appearance of a .co.uk more maximal cushioned model. There’s certainly more than 1080v7 £115 enough cushioning for even the highest mileage athlete, yet BY comparison to many of the newbalance.co.uk the shoe remains light, flexible and ready to go from day one. shoes available nowadays, this model remains relatively WITH deep, plush cushioning this shoe provides a stable ride l Deep, plush cushioning low-tech, but nevertheless it with a smooth feel from impact to toe-off. The 8mm heel l Broader, accommodating toe box manages to deliver everything drop gives a natural and easy-going feel to the shoe, while l Plush upper one may need. with the forefoot flex grooves make for a sensation that The triple density midsole leaves you free to concentrate on the road. provides a smooth, neutral The soft mesh upper has very few overlays and this ride that soaks up the impact gives it a broader feel, particularly in the toe box area, yet remains light and flexible. which easily accommodates the wider foot. The outsole combines with deep The upper’s lining is a little thicker As a no-nonsense shoe, at a good value price point, flex-grooves that provide a customised fit which adapts to and plusher than the Harmony does what it should without any fuss and with the foot’s shape as it rolls through its gait cycle. This gives the many shoes and a practical and functional style that those familiar with the shoe a natural feel and a responsive nature. this adds to the brand from a few years ago will welcome. The open construction of the upper gives the shoe a comfort from broad and accommodating fit, with room to naturally find l No-nonsense neutral cushioned trainer the moment you a good footing, something that testers with wider feet l Broader fit first slip your feet appreciated. l Great value into the shoes.

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12-13 Adidas guide - neutral.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:16 12-13 Adidas guide - neutral.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:17 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE RACING SHOES

Mizuno – Wave Shadow £115 The upper has a seamless toe box design using a soft, mizuno.eu open mesh. This adds plenty of breathability as well as a fit that allows a natural placement for the forefoot. SPEED DEMONS THE brand’s familiar Wave plate is used in this performance It’s a shoe that is easy to get along with and one that’s shoe but, as well as adding excellent shock absorbing happy at any pace. adidas – adios Boost £119.99 The Torsion system in the midfoot of the shoe creates properties, we found it gives added stability and makes a little stability and the stretch-web outsole in the forefoot this a nice choice for the runner seeking a little control in a l Light yet stable adidas.co.uk gives a toe-off that complements the naturally ‘springy’ lightweight package. l 250g properties of the Boost material. With an 8mm heel drop the shoe feels l Smooth-riding performance THE choice of the world’s best marathon runners, this shoe A traditionally styled upper retains the look of a classic familiar enough to go straight from the could help you to a personal best in your next race, be it a road-racing shoe and the lightweight, breathable fabric box and, with it providing the feel of a parkrun or marathon. and mesh provides enough support. more performance focused shoe, Using their Boost midsole cushioning in conjunction with Continental rubber on the outsole improves grip and you have no hesitation in wanting a full-length, low-profile layer of CM-EVA, the brand have reduces any slippage, saving vital seconds. to pick up the pace. managed to combine the soft cushioning and energy return properties into a lightweight shoe that provides a l 226g (size UK 8.5) responsive toe-off, perfect for racing. l Low-profile BOOST cushioning l Built for speed

Brooks – Hyperion £90 they have an added comfort to them that is sometimes lost brooksrunning.com in more minimal racing shoes. The cushioning feels like it’s sufficient to take the impact as WITH the fit of a track spike, wrapping around the foot closely you run but without unnecessary weight. The deep grooves with a seamless, sock-like upper, these shoes immediately in the forefoot provide excellent flexibility and a nice, smooth small rubber pieces attached. This creates good traction but Reebok – Floatride Racer feel fast. At just over 180g, they are light and feel even more toe-off. also adds to the responsive ‘snap’ of the shoe on toe-off. so when on your feet. The weight and feel of the shoe was again reminiscent of £TBC reebok.co.uk The upper is a simple mesh design to keep the weight However, with a a track spike to many of our testers and, as such, gave them down, but it has a nice fit and gives the shoe a feel of a track 10mm heel drop a desire to push that pace at any opportunity. WHILST this shoe isn’t due for general sale until early 2018, spike. It’s certainly one for the faster, more efficient athletes we were lucky enough to be able to try it and have since around and a shoe that’s sure to quickly gain a loyal following. spotted one or two pairs on the roads. l 181g It manages to hit the magic, light weight of just 100g, l Just 100g! l Seamless upper something that’s only been seen a couple of times in l Track spike feel l Slim, wrap-around fit the history of road racing shoes. l Cushioning beyond its Remarkably, despite its minimal weight weight it manages to feel surprisingly cushioned. This is thanks to its midsole, a polyurethane blend that has great cushioning and feels responsive, a little like the adidas Boost material. The shoe’s outsole uses a thin plastic film-like layer with

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14-15 Adidas guide - racers.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:22 14-15 Adidas guide - racers.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:22 GREATER EVERY RUN

ULTR ABOOST X ALL TERRAIN

16-17 Adidas guide - All-terrain DPS ad.indd 2 24/11/2017 15:24 16-17 Adidas guide - All-terrain DPS ad.indd 3 24/11/2017 15:25 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE ADIDAS SPEEDFACTORY THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME adidas SPEEDFACTORY provides a glimpse of the future ONDON recently had uppers, as well as taking gait analysis the opportunity to take into account to select cushioning and a look into the future of support that’s most effective for each Lrunning shoe design and athlete. manufacturing, when the adidas Different outsoles can then be SPEEDFACTORY came to town. added for shoes suitable for a variety The changes and developments of surfaces. This data is then stored so that are taking place in manufacturing shoes can be produced as and when will allow future footwear to be highly required and any future developments customised, taking the shape and size can be integrated into the design of the customer’s feet, as well as their and manufacturing process. The cushioning and support needs, into possibilities are endless. The adidas SPEEDFACTORY visit to London showed the account. The SPEEDFACTORY in Ansbach, extent to which it will be possible to tailor running shoes To demonstrate the capabilities, Germany, is now fully operational of the future to the individual needs of the customer the AM4LDN (adidas Made for London) and will soon be joined by a second shoe gave a glimpse as to what we facility in Atlanta, USA. The production can expect. London was the first stop of AM4 footwear for all markets will be on a global tour for the system, which supported by both locations, but each can use a series of measurements facility’s main focus will be localised and biometric data to develop the in future, a pair of fully customised production. footwear. Athletes in the city also had shoes can be made in a matter of The SPEEDFACTORY tour moves on input into the design process to create days rather than weeks. to Paris, Los Angeles, New York, Tokyo a shoe tailored to the local consumer. Measurement of foot sizes and Shanghai in the coming weeks to A faster and more efficient and shape can allow for a highly give a global audience a taste of things manufacturing process will mean that, personalised fit from the knitted to come.

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18-19 Adidas guide - Speed factory.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:25 18-19 Adidas guide - Speed factory.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:26 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE ADIDAS SHOREDITCH CITY RUN CITY RUN New 10k events heading for London

ICKING off a series of The event had a great party events planned for the atmosphere which featured live DJ sets at City of London in the the event village, where a range of other Kcoming months, the adidas activities gave proceedings a real east Shoreditch City Run in October saw London festival feel. over 5000 runners take to the streets. There will be four City Runs planned The series of events aims to provide for 2018, each with closed roads and a thousands of runners the opportunity to great atmosphere guaranteed, giving you explore the city in a safe environment with a unique opportunity to explore the city totally closed roads. as you run. The events also support Great The launch event welcomed runners Ormond Street Hospital so you can be of all abilities, from those taking part in confident of helping others as you take to their first 10k to more established athletes the roads. looking to set personal best times. All those taking part will receive Olympic diving hero and adidas a technical event t-shirt, as well as a athleteTom Daley set the masses on their great finisher’s medal and free event way from Shoreditch Park. The route took photographs. There will also be bespoke in iconic landmarks along the way such as training sessions planned before the Hoxton Street market and the hip Hoxton events, where you’ll be able to get top Square, with thousands more people tips from the adidas running team. taking to the streets to cheer on family and For more information see: friends towards the finish line. adidascityruns.com/coming-soon

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20-21 Adidas guide - Shoreditch.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:28 20-21 Adidas guide - Shoreditch.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:29 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE LYNSEY SHARP PART TWO GARY MITCHELL Lynsey Sharp tells Jessica Whittington about why she hopes big changes will bring success in the ‘second half’ of her career

HE might not yet know how MARK SHEARMAN the story is going to unfold, but Lynsey Sharp can’t Swait to continue writing the second chapter of her career. According to the Scottish 800m star and two-time Olympian, everything up Lynsey Sharp is to 2016 marked the first instalment, while gearing up for the the sequel got under way this year. Commonwealth Sharp admits 2017 didn’t go Games following the completely to plan but, taking World Championships everything into consideration, the in London (left) 27-year-old says making her first IAAF World Championships final in London was “a huge success personally”. Now comes the task of building on that and her other major achievements – which include the 2012 European title plus Commonwealth and European silver medals in 2014 – as she heads into 2018. I think this year will be really It’s a time of change for Sharp. She enjoyable, I’m really excited. If is finalising arrangements to leave you’re happy and enjoying it her UK base behind and move out to California to be closer to her coach, then you’re going to perform well Terrence Mahon, while it’s her first winter as an adidas athlete after signing with “I kind of see it as like two halves – up included that eighth-place finish in the the sportswear giant this summer. to 2016 was the first half of my career world final to add to her sixth-place “I was excited for something and“ this is the second half,” she says. spot at her second Olympics in Rio, different – I really liked what adidas “It’s difficult to do the same thing for 10 Sharp describes it as “pretty were about,” she explains. “I got on really or 12 years so that’s why I was looking challenging”. well with everyone and got on really well at what I could do differently and “I had a few ups and downs,” she with the clothes and shoes as well. It’s moving somewhere different. says. “We tried things a bit differently – I exciting to start a new chapter.” “I think 2016 and 2017 were hard went to Flagstaff (at the beginning of The hard graft has already begun back-to-back with the Olympics and the year) and I was there for quite a as she works towards her next then a home world championships so long time. I found it quite hard to do major target – the Commonwealth I think this year will be really enjoyable, speed work and I had some breathing Games. While she wants to add to maybe a bit less pressure. I’m really issues coming down from there. It took her medal haul in Gold Coast in April excited. me quite a long time, not so much and also in Berlin at August’s European “Ultimately, if you’re happy and physically, but mentally, to get to where Championships, Sharp knows it’s you’re enjoying it, then you’re going to I wanted and needed to be. important not to lose sight of enjoying perform well.” “I know that I can and could have herself along the way. Reflecting on this year, which done better,” she adds, looking back

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22-25 Adidas guide - Lynsey Sharp.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:31 22-25 Adidas guide - Lynsey Sharp.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:31 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE LYNSEY SHARP

on the world final. “But, given the circumstances, it was good.” Lynsey Sharp is Importantly, there are no regrets hoping her move Lynsey Sharp’s around doing things the way she did. to California will “You never know how you’re going pay dividends shoe cupboard to react to different things unless you We find out the go-to footwear for a two-time Olympian try them,” says Sharp. “You’re not going to improve if you keep doing the same Training things all the time. So, it was important to take those steps. They were risks but in some ways it worked great. I got really fit in Font Romeu this time last year so it’s not that altitude doesn’t work for me, it’s just using it differently.” Now the next step is her move to the US with her boyfriend and fellow Scottish athlete as adizero Boston (£109.95 adidas.co.uk) they capitalise on the opportunity to “For steady runs and longer stuff I’ll wear the adizero Boston.” spend more time with coach Mahon. “His knowledge is second to none,” says Sharp of the former UK Athletics lead endurance coach, who leaves his position as coach of the Boston Athletic Association’s high performance team at the end of the year. “He is so knowledgeable in terms of the sport and training and also the mental side of competing and nutrition – every single aspect of it. I’m really adizero Adios (£119.99 adidas.co.uk) lucky to have someone like that. “I could wear the adizero Adios for everything but I try “I’m looking forward to seeing what and switch it up a little bit.” we can do slightly differently this year, as I’ll be spending a bit more time with him this season to get things right for Racing Commonwealths and Europeans.” With those two events her focus, Sharp has made the tough decision to miss March’s IAAF World Indoor Championships in Birmingham but is relishing the chance to form part of a strong Scottish squad for the Gold Coast Games the following month. adizero spikes (£89.95 adidas.co.uk) “I’m excited to go to Australia,” she says. “To see how the Scots have improved from to now is Top footwear tips unbelievable. I’m looking forward to “Wear your shoes in gradually. Don’t just go straight in at the doing well individually but also as a deep end wearing a new shoe – it’s amazing how sensitive team.” your body is to change. A medal in Australia, together with “Change your shoes regularly if you’re running a lot. It’s further success in Germany in August surprising how quickly shoes in general can wear down (“I’m hoping to be European from all the miles that you do.” again”), would be a fine way to continue

part two of her career. MITCHELL GARY

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22-25 Adidas guide - Lynsey Sharp.indd 4 24/11/2017 16:32 22-25 Adidas guide - Lynsey Sharp.indd 5 24/11/2017 16:32 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE CHANGING FACE OF FOOTWEAR A FOOTWEAR EVOLUTION PAUL FREARY

Paul Freary takes a look at how the single most important piece of athletic kit has developed over the decades

Spikes The 1950s The 1960s They are clearly very much aimed style with a thinner, lighter construction 1990s Since adidas was first formed in 1949 Early shoes had fixed spikes, held In the ’60s the shoes had become at an efficient forefoot strike that to that of the ‘60s. The brand launches the ‘adistar’ its business was to manufacture sports firmly in place in a thick leather and much lighter and, at first glance, look maximises the effect of the spikes range of spikes. Available now in shoes and, by the summer Olympics of rubber sole. The sole was stitched to like sprint spikes of the modern era. on the track. 1980s event-specific models, this example is 1952 in , its now familiar the shoe. These shoes again use a soft This field event shoe incorporated an the adistar distance featuring a wedge three-stripe logo was introduced. Athletes would talk about leather in the upper. It’s thin and light 1970s EVA midsole cushioning wedge that of cushioning in the heel of the shoe In every Olympic Games since, the sharpening spikes once they had and, in this example, shows signs of These sprint spikes from the early previously had been very primitive, if to reduce impact a little for distance brand, and in particular its track and become a little blunt, in order to regain how it has gently stretched around the ’70s demonstrate how manufacturing existent at all. athletes. field spikes, have become one of the traction on the cinder tracks of the time. foot after use. processes where developing, as well The upper again uses a leather, These were also available in sprint most recognised pieces of equipment. The upper of the shoes is The spike plate is a one-piece as how the use of newer materials was suede design to create a beautifully and ‘MD’ (middle distance) designs. We managed to gather shoes from surprisingly supple. Soft leather has plastic construction with removable being introduced. fitting shoe. Manufacturing processes Advances in these shoes focused the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s been used and the shoes show a high spikes. A thin rubber sole covers the The leather upper has a simple now allowed leather to be cut, around the spikes and the spike plate. to take a look at how they’ve changed level of craftsmanship in the detail of rear of the shoe, but there’s no extra design, making it easier to produce. stretched and stitched to form more The removable spikes were often and developed over the years. the stitching and shape. cushioning to be seen. The spike plate retains the now familiar complex shaping around the foot. referred to as ‘Christmas trees’ by

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26-29 Adidas guide - Shoe/spike evolution.indd 2 24/11/2017 16:35 26-29 Adidas guide - Shoe/spike evolution.indd 3 24/11/2017 16:36 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE CHANGING FACE OF FOOTWEAR

Racing shoes Road racing and competition shoes have always played a special part in

DAN VERNON the range of models from footwear manufacturers. Being exposed to television audiences and seen on the feet of world-class athletes in magazines and across the media, the shoes are the showcases of a brand. The recent race to break the two-hour mark for the marathon has proved an example of how important shoes play, with brands making specific models for such record attempts. But the super-light and high provide a particularly close fit around seen inside. There’s no full-length insole performance shoes to today have the foot. to be found here, just a lining to the front been around for quite a while, as you The low-profile midsole uses a half of the shoe. can see above. single density EVA construction of a Presumably the thinking here is that This model was called the adidas firmer density to give a responsive feel as the faster, more efficient athlete will marathon and dates from around 1975. on the roads. be a forefoot runner, there’s no need The upper has a one-piece leather One very revealing and interesting for a full-length insole, so weight can be construction that’s been pre-shaped to feature of this road-racing shoe can be minimised even further!

athletes due to their jagged pointed reduced and one piece, moulded effective materials around in terms of design. spike plate designs provide traction its ability to absorb impact and return Red and blue plastic cleats without the fuss. Breathable mesh energy. fitted around the spikes to give extra uppers keep the feet cool and The spikes of today feature a traction and the spikes came with a weight to a minimum. low profile, full-length midsole to large selection of spikes and cleats to offer protection to athletes from the allow the athlete to personalise their Today hard, fast tracks often seen at major spikes to suit their preferences. The latest spikes from adidas take on championships, as well as giving an board almost 70 years of design and ultra responsive toe-off. 2000s development experience. Spike plates use moulded plastics Into the new century and shoes Without doubt the biggest to create lightweight, flexible designs became lighter and lighter. Here the development in this time has been specific to the demands of individual spikes retain their midsole cushioning that of cushioning materials and events. Uppers are knitted, one-piece and aggressive spike plates, but the in recent years the emergence of constructions that offer a skin-like fit overall weight has been significantly Boost cushioning as one of the most around the athlete’s foot.

adidas – adizero Sub2 The shoe features a Boost improvement in running economy. The shoe that adidas hopes will midsole, which independent research Continental rubber is used in the break the two-hour barrier for the has shown can provide a one outsole, providing more grip and marathon is the adizero Sub2. per cent improvement in running therefore less slip meaning athletes With a strong history in marathon economy. run only as far as the need to. success including the brand owning The overall weight reduction of These key innovations are hoped five world records, the adizero is the 100grams makes this the brand’s to be the added factors that could latest in its cutting edge innovation, lightest road racing shoe to date and make the difference in future world research and development. delivers an additional one per-cent record attempts.

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26-29 Adidas guide - Shoe/spike evolution.indd 4 24/11/2017 16:36 26-29 Adidas guide - Shoe/spike evolution.indd 5 24/11/2017 16:37 SHOE BUYER’S GUIDE MARATHON WORLD RECORD PICTURES: VICTAH SAILER HIGH FIVE How adidas athletes have progressed the marathon world record in recent years

2:02:57 Dennis Kimetto GREATER September 28, 2014 EVERY

2:03:59 Haile 2:03:23 Gebrselassie Wilson Kipsang September September 28, 2008 29, 2013 RUN

2:04:26 Haile Gebrselassie 2:03:38 Patrick Makau ULTRABOOST ALL TERRAIN September 30, 2007 September 25, 2011

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30 Adidas guide - Marathon.indd 2 24/11/2017 15:40 31 Adidas guide All-terrain ad.indd 1 24/11/2017 15:27 GREATER EVERY RUN

ULTRABOOST X ALL TERRAIN

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