Shoes || Clothes || Tech
Woments Running
How we test
Our kit is tested by real runners: passionate women with diverse running experiences, from dedicated marathoners to happy plodders. We wear the clothes, run in the shoes and use the tech on our usual runs to see if they go the distance. We then give each piece of kit our star rating. Prices are RRP and correct at time of printing.
POOR Disappointing, low-level performance
STANDARD Provided basic levels of performance in function, fit and style
GOOD Solid all-round performance: a good value, reliable piece of kit
GREAT Performed above expectations and impressed with function and fit
BEST Brilliant performance from highly technical, stylish kit
ESSENTIAL KIT NEW RELEASE SHOES
Putting your next trainers through their paces
BrooksHyperion GTS
£140| brooksrunning.com|Tester: Tina
The fit?
There’s lots of space across the forefoot, probably too much for a narrow foot like mine as I could feel it moving around a little at the front of the shoe. These feel secure around the heel and there’s a bit of padding despite it being a racing shoe. However, the upper is quite tight. Overall, for my size, a 5, this felt a tiny bit big, but it wasn’t annoying or intrusive on performance.
The comfort
These are stripped back for speed so, unlike many Brooks shoes, you won’t be getting their heavenly plush ride, or thick midsole. However, they are a comfortable shoe. For something like a fast 5K, these are spot-on as they’re minimal but wrap around your foot and feel secure.
What and who they’re for
Shorter intervals, short races, fast paced-sessions, short-mid length tempo sessions. Speedsters who like to train and run fast and don’t rely on cushioning to save their legs over longer miles. They’re also great for those with slightly wider feet. Also those who want support without having a chunky shoe, or want to feel fast with a natural ride, and don’t want a carbon plate forcing them forwards.
On the run
Finally! A speedy shoe that is lightweight and fast but gives support. These feel quite different to the usual type of shoe I run in, but are just right for a faster interval session, tempo run or short race. I loved having the support on the inside of the foot without having to put inserts into my trainers. They felt fast on the paths, especially as the midsole isn’t thick, so I’d choose these for a parkrun when I want to switch on the speed. They also felt breathable despite some very soupy, hot runs and I loved the hot pink colour… they look as fast as they feel.
Should you buy them?
I’ve done 5K in various versions of this shoe for years, so it’s a YES from me!
newbalance SuperComp v2 £210|newbalance.co.uk|T
