RUN mag takes a look at some of the practical tech upgrades you ’ re going to want to blow your bonus on .
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RUN mag takes a look at some of the practical tech upgrades you ’ re going to want to blow your bonus on .
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3-2-1 LIFT OFF
Asics Novablast 5 | RRP R3 100 | asics . com Asics ’ design philosophy respects the Japanese principle of kaizen – continuous improvement . And that ’ s on display in the Novablast 5 , which introduces innovative updates to the midsole foam , upper and tongue tooling , plus overall design elements . The new FF Blast Max Cushioning in the midsole , say the engineers , helps increase bounce properties by approximately 8.5 % compared to the previous model . The upper has been improved for comfort , now utilising an engineered jacquard mesh that enhances breathability compared to its predecessor ’ s woven upper , and the tongue construction has a gusseted wing design to help create a secure lockdown . Design wise , the shoe retains its signature geometric midsole appearance . The designers say the lines are intended to create an illusion of dimensional warp as runners move through their stride . The midsole and outsole construction incorporates enhancements that build on the shoe ’ s energetic , bouncy and comfortable ride , with a pod-like groove in the forefoot giving a springy sensation to help propel you forward .
ONE-STOP WATCH
Garmin Fenix 8 | RRP R27 000 | garmin . co . za Twenty years ago the most advanced sports watches simply told us how far we ’ d gone . Then came heartrate tracking , and it felt revolutionary . Fast forward and the evolution of sports watches has been nothing short of remarkable . Modern devices like the Garmin Fenix 8 deliver an array of health , fitness and performance metrics that rival a personal coach – and even a survival guide . From exercise and recovery to sleep tracking , this watch combines cutting-edge science and expert guidance to support athletes across disciplines . Whether you ’ re a runner , cyclist , triathlete , or adventurer , the Fenix 8 brings tailored advice to your wrist . Its robust design , user-friendly interface , easy-to-read AMOLED display and unmatched range of features – like wellness monitoring , advanced training tools and a bright LED flashlight – take performance enhancement to a new level . Add the handy solar-charging feature for hugely extended battery life , the dive capabilities and the advanced strength training features , and you ’ ll see why this performance watch was designed for anyone who wants to push limits . There are sizes to suit everyone ( 43mm , 47mm or 51mm ), with the solarcharging option available on the larger two . All feature rugged design , leakproof metal buttons and a new guard to protect essential sensors .
We had the chance to test the Garmin Fenix 8 across a multitude of sports and each one had all the user feedback and ease of control that we , as relatively non-tech athletes , expected . While the price tag initially felt steep , time with it left us convinced of
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its value for those serious about their health and performance .
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24 | RUN FOR YOUR LIFE