TECH » NEW SHOES
ROBUST ELEGANCE
Under Armour Velociti Elite 2 | RRP R4 999 | underarmour. co. za This is possibly the best-looking and most underhyped shoe that we have tested in recent months. From the moment you put your feet into them you feel cushioned, bouncy, tall and yet surprisingly stable and smooth. The carbon-plated supershoe has almost 40mm of cushioning( 39.5mm heel and 37.5mm forefoot) yet weighs just 260g in size 10.5. The weight saving is largely due to no extra outsole material – the high-energy return foam( made from castor beans) in the midsole delivers excellent traction – and a minimalist yet sturdy upper. We liked that the upper looks elegant yet ensures a snug, breathable fit. The minimal heel-to-toe drop also promotes an efficient stride to suit amateurs who find the bucking forward effect of overly aggressive plates too unstable and impossible to manage at a slower tempo. The durable cushioning also means the Velociti Elite 2 can happily be used for higher mileage daily training.
KEEP ON RISING Adidas Supernova Rise 2 | R2 999 | adidas. co. za This no frills daily trainer offers runners great quality and affordability. Built to provide even more comfort in a 4 % lighter package, the Supernova Rise 2 debuts a new upper, engineered with a refined sandwich mesh material for a more breathable and secure fit, and an updated heel construction with a refined foam collar to optimise comfort and stability. Underfoot, it packs all the ingredients seen in its popular predecessor. The full-length Dreamstrike + superfoam takes inspiration from Lightstrike Pro – the midsole material utilised across the recordbreaking Adizero franchise – but with an updated formula to offer improved comfort and cushioning. This is paired with a Support Rod system, embedded in the midsole to provide support as runners transition from heel to toe, as well as stability when needed.
LOW PRICE, HIGH SPEED
Mr Price Elite Hi Racer 2 | RRP R2 500 | mrpsport. com Ask any runner which brands they associate with Comrades and they’ re sure to include Mr Price. Since the Fordyce era this brand has supported elite athletes and endeavoured to bring sporting apparel to the masses at affordable prices. While we knew they made clothing and some entry level shoes, we only recently spotted their carbon-plated racers and were amazed by the sleek looks and good pricing. Good for race-day and speed training, the Elite Hi Racer 2 is great over short or long distances, and backed by numerous podium finishers around the country( including multiple Comrades gold medallists). The shoe features ultra-light jacquard uppers for comfort and breathability, anti-slip laces to ensure a secure fit, a Peba midsole with a 10mm heel drop for cushioning and rebound, a full carbon plate for increased energy return and forward propulsion, as well as grippy and durable rubber traction.
36 | RUN FOR YOUR LIFE