Great deals on running gear from last year

Best for runners seeking a neutral cushioned shoe for daily training

With PureGEL cushioning in the heel and new FluidRide outsole (more on this later), the Gel Cumulus 26 delivers the plush ride that many runners have come to expect from this classic neutral cushioning shoe. In this iteration, Asics has employed a new FluidRide outsole, which consists of an EVA and rubber blend. This outsole provides greater cushioning than traditional rubber outsoles while retaining better durability than conventional exposed foam soles. Cushioning is further enhanced, thanks to the shoe’s generous stack height: 37.5 mm in the heel and 29.5 mm in the forefoot for the women’s model, while the men’s has 38.5 mm in the heel and 30.5 mm in the forefoot. For the upper, Asics has updated the Gel Cumulus with an engineered mesh that offers better abrasion resistance and improved fit. If you are looking for a versatile, well-cushioned shoe for daily training that won’t break the bank, consider the Gel Cumulus 26.

Best for runners seeking a stability shoe for daily training

If you’re looking for a well-cushioned, stability-oriented shoe for daily training, consider the Adrenaline GTS 23. The shoe showcases Brooks’s unique GuideRail technology, which provides support and stability by encouraging proper joint alignment. For the midsole, Brooks has employed DNA Loft v2 foam, which does an admirable job of providing cushioning without compromising responsiveness. The shoe has more traditional stack and drop numbers (24 mm in the heel and 12 mm in the forefoot, for a 12-mm drop) that provide predictable performance for heel strikers.

Best for runners seeking a light and fast shoe for moderate trails

Designed as a lightweight and versatile trail running shoe, Ultra Glide 2 delivers the control and protection runners need on moderate trail runs. The shoe features Salomon’s EnergyFOAM midsole cushioning without compromising the lively feel runners demand when trail running. The upper consists of a 3D Air Mesh, which provides breathability and support. For traction, Salomon uses an aggressive Contragrip outsole, which performs well in a variety of conditions. Finally, the unique and minimalist Quicklace closure system provides a secure and easy-to-adjust fit.

Best for runners seeking a responsive, moderately cushioned shoe for technical trails

With the current iteration of the Sense Ride, Salomon has upped the cushioning with an Energy Foam midsole while retaining the responsive ride that runners appreciated in the fourth edition of this shoe. Underfoot, Salomon has spec’d its All Terrain Contagrip outsole with 3.5 mm lugs for solid and consistent traction in a variety of wet and rocky trail conditions. Salomon also includes a Profeel Film in the forefoot for additional protection against rocks and roots. Up top, the Sense Ride 5 has a breathable 3D mesh upper, as well as Salomon’s Quicklace closure. This time-tested combination provides a secure, foot-hugging fit that inspires confidence when running on challenging trails. Finally, the Sense Ride 5, with its 21.3 mm forefoot stack height and 29.6 mm heel stack, offers an 8 mm drop, which many consider to be the sweet spot for most runners.

Best for runners seeking no-nonsense running shorts with a 5″ inseam

The Salomon Cross 5″ shorts are the perfect addition to any runner’s summer wardrobe. Salomon has spec’d a classic 5″ inseam and mated it to their Active fit construction, ensuring unrestricted movement during long, easy runs, as well as more spirited interval workouts. The shorts use a smart internal waist adjustment, which provides a secure and comfortable fit while minimizing the risk of irritation and chafing. At the centre back of the shorts, there is a small zippered pocket that’s perfectly sized for an energy gel, credit card, or ID. These are great workhorse shorts at a very reasonable price and should be part of every runner’s clothing collection.

Best for runners seeking warm-weather comfort and subtle, stylish graphics

Runners seeking a lightweight and highly breathable top for hot summer running conditions will love the Salomon Sense Aero Graphic. Salomon uses a unique engineered fabric that features 37.5 Technology for exceptional thermoregulation to keep you cool and comfortable in warm weather. Runners will also appreciate the shirt’s minimalist, glued-seam construction, which minimizes chafing during longer runs. Finally, Salomon adds an antimicrobial treatment that prevents odour build-up, allowing runners to wear the shirt multiple times between washes.

Best for runners seeking additional warmth in cool conditions

Constructed with a soft, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, the Sense Aero Seamless Long Sleeve T-Shirt is ideal for cool-weather runs or even as a base layer in colder conditions. Salomon employs seamless construction, which reduces weight and bulk, and minimizes chafing. Salomon also adds mesh and ripstop zones that deliver exceptional ventilation and durability.

Best for runners seeking a minimalist rain/wind jacket

Constructed with an ultralight ripstop fabric that’s backed with an AdvancedSkin Dry waterproof and breathable membrane, the Bonatti Waterproof is the perfect piece of kit for running in windy and wet conditions. The jacket’s low weight and built-in stretch ensure it won’t slow you down during more intense workouts, while the reflective details provide additional visibility when running in low-light conditions. Throw in a minimalist hood design, front and back vents and waterproof zippers, and you have a great just-in-case jacket for rainy and windy conditions.

Products reviewed in this article: