Here we are in July, the month that the Games of the XXXII Olympiad were supposed to kick off in Tokyo. We all know what happened there. But a few months ago, the anticipation of the Olympics — which are now set for July 2021 — lit a fuse that wasn't snuffed by the coronavirus: the release of a fast new class of running shoes.
In response to Eliud Kipchoge's busting of the two-hour marathon last fall with a pair of mysterious Nikes, the World Athletics Council enacted a rule stating that any shoe used in competition, Olympics included, had to be commercially available for four months prior. It led to a stream of carbon-enhanced running shoe releases in the spring, often in limited quantities or preorders. Well, it's been four months, and with the would've-been start of the Olympics, those shoes are finally available to the masses, as are plenty of other shiny new pieces of fitness gear to make you feel like going for gold.
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro
One of the most-anticipated additions to the carbon-plate running shoe category is the Adizero Adios Pro. The layup is slightly different from others, with a carbon heel plate and carbon-infused "EnergyRods" that extend the length of the foot beneath the metatarsals. Adidas claims the unique construction provides a speed-enabling spring while minimizing impact on the body.
Saucony Endorphin Collection
The three-shoe Endorphin Collection is topped by the carbon plate-equipped Pro, but also includes the Speed, a shoe for tempo runs and fast training, and the Shift, which is ideal for everyday runs where a racing shoe would be overkill. All are available with Saucony's springy foam and candy-colored neon highlights.
Hoka One One Clifton Edge
The Clifton Edge does not have a carbon fiber plate inside, but it does have an XL surface area that exaggerates stability. Hoka inflated this running shoe's form but kept its weight down, making a unique everyday running shoe that's all game and no pain.
Therabody TheraOne CBD
Formerly Theragun, Therabody expanded its vision of athletic recovery to include a full line of CBD products in addition to its highly regarded percussion massage guns. The TheraOne line includes lotions, balms, a sleep tincture and massage oil. It produces each one with organic ingredients at a high self-imposed standard for optimal effectiveness.
Rapha Eyewear
At the heart of Rapha's revamped collection of cycling shades is ROSE, the company's proprietary lens tech that enhances contrast, which helps when attempting to avoid bumps in the road. ROSE also helps the eyes adjust to changes in the light and comes in four different frame styles for all sorts of bike riders.
Ten Thousand Set Short
Whenever we survey professional trainers on their favorite gear, Ten Thousand always comes up. The company just revealed details on its latest take on thoughtful gym shorts, the Set. The brand worked with athletes who spend as much time working out in the water as they do on land, including a former military Water Survival Instructor, a former Navy SEAL and a professional freediver and photographer, among others. The Set is water-repellant, resistant to salt and chlorine, dries quickly and includes well-placed zippered pockets.
Honey Stinger Protein Waffles
Skip the smoothies, shakes and powders and reach for a protein product that's more snack than supplement.
