Running is a huge part of our lives at The Sole Supplier - we’re definitely advocates of the “healthy body, healthy mind” lifestyle. Many of us here at HQ love getting our hands on brand-new running gear just as much as we love copping the latest high-heat release or unexpected restock!
While we’re all firmly agreed that heading out on a run can be a great stress-reliever, we recently reached out to our loyal Facebook community to ask if fellow sneakerheads felt the same, where we were inundated with responses! We’ve spoken to six serious runners from the community to find out their favourite running sneakers and just why they love them, so whether you’re a seasoned runner already or brand-new to the lifestyle, read on to find out all you need to know!
Whether it’s Nike , adidas , or ASICS , The Sole Supplier's Facebook Community are here to tell you about their favourite running shoes and exactly why they love them!
Nike Pegasus Turbo 35/Nike Vaporfly NEXT% Ben Elmore
How far do you run per week? Normally I try and run between 30-40 miles a week. This can fluctuate depending on how busy I aim but that's a rough guideline!
What sort of running do you enjoy? I stick to the roads when I can, but I can be partial to a bit of trail running now and again if the conditions are right!
Why do you like your running shoes? Having such a general interest in sneakers has had a bit of a knock on effect with running as well, I find myself browsing running gear just as often as I do the latest releases and raffles!
Do you care about how they look? No, not necessarily. There’s definitely a lot more things I think about when choosing my running trainers before looks come into consideration. Comfort is obviously key for the daily runners that see the most mileage - it’s just a bonus if the shoe looks good as well!
Check out the full range of Nike running shoes .
adidas Ultraboost Performance Sean Newton
How far do you run per week? I’m running around 40-45km a week at the moment. I used to run closer to 60-70km but due to injuries I’m currently at a reduced level and working back up. I previously competed in Biathlon events for Great Britain, where training often hit the 100km a week mark, so I’m fairly conditioned when it comes to running!
What sort of running do you enjoy? I absolutely love cross country running - it’s the best blend of challenging hills and flats for a little rest up. It’s also refreshing to be out in the countryside with the fresh air filling your lungs. I’m currently road running/gym running as I recover from injuries.
Why do you like your running shoes? I like my running shoes because they're all comfortable, durable, hard wearing and suit my running style. When I'm running indoors I'll wear my ASICS Windhawk's and if I'm cross-country running I opt for Vibram Five Finger shoes!
Do you care about how they look? The “hypebeast” in me says that I do, but in reality it shouldn’t matter. They’re ultimately serving a purpose and not there for a flex - I have plenty of other shoes for that!
ASICS Novablast Matt Firth
How far do you run per week? My standard week is 20-30 miles, normally in three sessions. Sundays are for long slow runs where I take in my local Leicestershire countryside 8-12 miles. Monday night I join 3 others for a set of intervals. Mid week I throw in a tempo run over middle distance to work on speed endurance. With COVID-19 restrictions easing I have two half marathon events booked for late September and November 2020. I will steadily increase my mileage closer to the events.
What sort of running do you enjoy? The Saturday morning park run is great, there’s enough competition to test yourself against the best of local runners, yet free and accessible to all. Aside from park running I’ve recently enjoyed trail running in local fields and canal towpaths.
Why do you like your running shoes? Ever since I missed out on a pair of Triple Black Ultraboosts in 2016, I have been hooked on all things trainers. The streetwear/sneaker obsession soon evolved into running shoes. With so many competing brands in the running industry there is always advances in technology and performance producing the next ‘must buy’ running shoe. When high-end fashion met running with the Nike x Gyakusou Pegasus Turbo it was a must cop for me.
Do you care about how they look? Aesthetics have always been important to me when choosing a running shoe, so yes. I would argue that Nike have made some of the best looking running shoes in recent years, but brands like ASICS and New Balance offer technology that can be unrivalled in certain fields, so I’m a fan of all brands.
ON Cloudstratus Alex Hamblin
How far do you run per week? I normally run around 30-35km per week. This changes depending if I'm training for an event or not, but it normally averages at around this point.
What sort of running do you enjoy? I love middle to long distance runs but I also enjoy putting speed or interval work in too, it’s good to switch things up to keep training varied.
Why do you like your running shoes? I love the design of the ON shoes , but they're also the most comfortable running shoes I have ever had, I'll probably buy the same pair again when these are done.
Do you care about how they look? The look of my running shoes is definitely a factor for me, I like my shoes to stand out and make a statement but obviously they’ve got to be functional too.
adidas Ultraboost Performance Ollie Dyason
How far do you run per week? I'm averaging at around 15km a week at the moment, it's a nice casual distance and doesn't take up too much of my time!
What sort of running do you enjoy? I’m into cross-country running at the moment, but I love both road running and trail running too - just depends what I’m in the mood for!
Why do you like your running shoes? They’ve done me really well in the time I’ve owned them. They provide great comfort and support and have lasted seriously well, I can’t complain!
Do you care about how they look? It’s not an important factor for me as they’re going to get dirty fast anyway. As long as they perform well I’m happy.
Nike Pegasus 36 Trail Dan Smith
How far do you run per week? On an average week I usually run anywhere between 30-50km a week depending on what my goals and aims are for the period of time!
What sort of running do you enjoy? My personal favourite at the moment is sprinting, I've spent most of lockdown building myself up doing longer runs up to a handful of half marathons so currently I'm preferring shorter distance and trying to work on my speed.
Why do you like your running shoes? I love my current running shoes because the terrain I run on is so varied that I was finding it difficult to find a shoe that does everything. The Pegasus 36 Trail literally performs wherever I’m running, be it road, trail, cross-country and even indoor runs!
Do you care about how they look? When I was choosing my running trainers I knew I’d buy Nikes. I’m a self confessed Swoosh-head so it just had to be done, but yes, I do care about how they look! The bright colours and utilitarian look of my current pair instantly caught my eye, so it was love from first sight.