If you like to run — the thing we humans are apparently born to do — you're going to need some running sneakers. And you'd be well-advised to get some new ones, because athletic-shoe technology is improving at an incredible clip. Don't believe me? Consider, then, that as recently as the 1979-1980 season, NBA players were still wearing Chuck Taylors! Here are five 2017 running shoes that could take your running game to the next level.
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Brooks Caldera
Available this month, this cushioned trail shoe is designed with the long-distance trail runner in mind. Smooth striding is made possible by the rocker bottom, while a sticky rubber sole will give you traction a mountain goat would envy. The new Caldera also features a gusseted tongue, gator tab and a lace locker. They weigh 9.9 oz, have a heel-toe offset of 4mm, and you can pick up a pair for $140 at amazon.com.
Newton Distance Elite
Newtons have a special place in the heart of pavement pounders, and this new road warrior is already causing hearts to swell. Originally designed for Newton's elite racing team, the Distance Elites were tested by some of the fastest runners in the country. The seamless upper construction gives a comfortable fit, and the Action/Reaction technology in the outsole promotes a firm but comfortable ride. They weigh a mere 7.4 oz, have a 2mm heel-toe offset, and cost $155 at amazon.com. Wear them while you're living life to the absolute fullest — start checking off these 40 Things You Must Do in Your 40s!
Saucony Freedom ISO
Low-slung, energetic, smooth, bouncy. These are some of the adjectives reviewers are using to describe the Freedom ISO, released just in time for the holidays. It features a responsive midsole and a treat that flexes, quite handily, where your foot does. A stretch-mesh upper and foot-cradling lace system accommodates runners with a wide range of foot proportions. They weigh in at 9oz, have a heel-toe offset of 4mm and are available for $160 at saucony.com.
North Face Endurus TR
Ultrarunner Dylan Bowman was recruited by North Face to help design a shoe that can support runners over long distances in relative comfort. Their creation is a shoe with a secure fit and generous cushioning, featuring a wide forefoot, reinforced toe and a rock plate that will protect your feet from rocks and roots on any trail. They weigh 11.2 oz, have a heel-toe offset of 8mm and can be snapped up for $120 at thenorthface.com. They're a good choice for any of these 25 Adventures Every Man Should Have!
Skechers Performance Gomeb Razor
Eritrain-born Meb Keflezighi won the 2014 Boston Marathon, and when he was training for the 2016 Summer Olympics earlier this year, he strapped these on. The flat-knit upper makes the shoe snug-yet-breathable, while the firm heel and midsole help prevent sloppy form caused by fatigue. Durable rubber is used on the outsole for long-lasting performance — appropriate, since Meb was just shy of 39 when he won Boston with an official time of 2:08:37. (This made him the oldest Boston marathon winner since at least 1930.) These shoes weigh 7.7oz, have a heel-toe offset of 4mm and will cost $120 at skechers.com.
