The new season is presented as the ideal time to refresh your rotation of shoes, with five new models singled out as particularly noteworthy. The selection is organised around a range of categories: versatile training models, supertrainers and trail shoes focused on performance. The stated aim is to highlight specific features, both for training use and for certain more demanding runs.
The Hoka Clifton Pro updates the famous Clifton with Proglide+ foam and a more pronounced MetaRocker geometry. The piece describes a more dynamic shoe, with a ride that’s judged to be smooth, good energy return and generous cushioning, especially over long distances. The model is listed with a 42 mm heel height, and a weight of 296 g in size 44, for a price of £170.
New Balance presents the SC Rebel V1 as a supertrainer designed to bring the feel of competition shoes to everyday training. The description cites a propulsion plate, Infinion foam and a FantomFIT upper, for a lightweight, flexible and dynamic overall setup. The stated weight is 223 g, and the text says its level of ambition would remain below that of a true supershoe, with a price of £166.
On the trail side, the ASICS MetaFuji Trail 2 is presented as a shoe with ambitions, referencing the UTMB win with Tom Evans and then Ben Dhiman. The text describes it as light, cushioning and highly propulsive, with an X-plate to encourage propulsion. A sock-like upper and quick lacing are mentioned for secure hold, along with effective grip on dry terrain, for a weight of 267 g in 44 and a price of £250.
For technical trail running, the Merrell MTL SpeedARC Peak is billed as a shoe built for mid-to-long technical distances, with five years of research and seven prototypes. The combination described includes two layers of FloatPro foam, a FlexPlate carbon plate and a Vibram MegaGrip Elite outsole. The text emphasises dynamism, traction and precision, especially when the pace quickens, while also describing it as demanding yet effective for competition, priced at £290.
Finally, the Craft Atmosfar 1 is presented as a comfort-oriented model, with more than 50 mm of foam underfoot and maximum cushioning, especially under the heel. The description says the Px Foam, already used on the Kype Pro, would help with lighter feel and smoother stride. The upper is described as offering plenty of room in the forefoot, at the expense of control. The text lists 271 g in 44 and a price of £180, for use geared towards racking up kilometres, particularly in marathon build-up.
