Right about now, we would have been coming off the heels of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, had they not been postponed due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus. The pandemic has jeopardized the world of sport and fitness across the board, but there are silver linings to find if you know where to look. One is the rise of virtual cycling, which has created new opportunities for African riders and opened up the (virtual) Tour de France to women. Faced with adversity, sport forges on. And so does the equipment and apparel that supports it.
Recently, Asics released its long-awaited race day shoe, District Vision revealed new anti-fog sunglasses technology and more.
Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralight
A 49 percent merino blend and a close-fitting construction make the Pursuit ideal for pretty much any activity.
ASICS Metaracer
Joining the ranks of carbon-enhanced running shoes, the Metaracer is the brand's new top-line racer. In addition to its carbon fiber plate, which runs from the midfoot forward, the Metaracer includes Asics' Guidesole technology, which helps propel the runner forward into the next stride, and a unique ventilation system that encourages airflow to keep your feet cool.
Mizuno Wave Sky 4 Waveknit
Less of a specialist than the Metaracer, Mizuno's new Wave Sky 4 Waveknit is the second shoe to include the company's Enerzy midsole. The cushion enhances both softness and energy return, which don't typically come hand-in-hand.
Brooks Catamount
The Catamount is the brainchild of Bryan Bhark, senior innovation footwear developer at Brooks. An accomplished trail runner, Bhark set out to create a race-focused shoe for trail events. The result includes the company's DNA Flash midsole tech, which keeps it both lightweight — around 8.8 ounces per shoe — and responsive. It also has a rock plate for protection on variable surfaces.
District Vision Calm-Tech
District Vision worked with its Japanese materials fabricator to create Calm-Tech, which it claims is the first porous sunglass lens. The new construction purportedly absorbs moisture, mitigating fogging issues and even light rain. Calm-Tech is available in District Vision's Takeyoshi and Keiichi frames.
Tracksmith Strata Tank
The Strata Tank couldn't have arrived at a better time. Its ultralight fabric is breathable and sheds moisture, making it ideal for muggy end-of-summer weather. Tracksmith also added UV protection and a finish that helps manage bacteria and odor.
2021 Specialized Tarmac
When Specialized announced the latest iteration of its Tarmac road bike, it also hinted at the retirement of its aero-focused Venge. Thanks to upgrades that allow for an aerodynamic structure without the typical weight penalty, the two bikes can be one. At under 15 pounds, the new Tarmac is light enough to climb mountains and 45 seconds faster than the previous iteration over 40 kilometers.
Nuun Instant
Available in Lemon-Lime and Watermelon, this new, powder-based formula dissolves fast to help you rehydrate quickly after exercise (or a night out?). Instant accomplishes that feat two to three times faster than plain water and includes full daily servings Vitamins C and B12.
