TECH » ROAD SHOES
DAILY TRAINERS
Trainers are your day-to-day go-to shoe for your easy mileage needs . These are the shoes you ’ ll likely spend the most time running in , so it ’ s important to make sure that they fit well and feel good for each run . For everyday use , reach for a pair that has durability and comfort . Because they ’ re meant to be heavily used , they are usually made with stronger materials that withstand wear and tear better . These are meant for comfort over maximum speed , and are designed to last from 600 to 1 000km .
NEW BALANCE FUELCELL PROPEL V4
Weight : 302g Heel to toe stack : 31mm – 25mm Drop : 6mm RRP : R2 499
I ’ m going to start by saying that for what you get , the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is in my view the best value daily trainer available on the market . It ’ s incredibly versatile and can handle everything from easy runs to races . With its wide midsole base , it has a balanced and stable yet dynamic ride . This is due to a new TPU plate embedded in the cushy FuelCell foam , which makes the forefoot snappier and provides good propulsion . The upper feels premium and has a good lockdown , but would benefit from a gusseted tongue . Its biggest strength is its affordable price point , offering performance found only in more expensive shoes . This will strike a chord with consumers in the current age of inflation .
NIKE PEGASUS 40
Weight : 266g Heel to toe stack : 33mm – 23mm Drop : 10mm RRP : R2 699
The Nike Pegasus is consistently one of the most popular do-everything running shoes every year . While it ’ s not packed with the newest cushioning or tech , it remains a comfortable daily trainer versatile for different speeds and distances . Because of its straightforward fit and versatility , it ’ s often spotted on club runners and athletes alike . Nike ’ s React foam and two Zoom Air units in the midsole offer steady performance but lack the pop it advertises . Instead , the Pegasus provides a smooth , consistent ride which is very forgiving . With its durable build quality that will happily provide 700km +, it makes for an excellent neutral running shoe that you can use for just about anything . If this is for you , save yourself some money and instead pick up the similar version 39 on sale .
28 | RUN FOR YOUR LIFE