I compared M&S and Nike running shoes to see if any could become my new favourites
Ask a group of athletes what the go-to essentials for runners are, and you’ll get more than enough responses. From great hydration and energy gels to an appropriate vest and a strict routine with a plan, there are a number of things you need to take into consideration – especially if you are just starting off.
Among the list of considerations would be the importance of appropriate footwear. After running for three years and a few half marathons under my belt, it’s fair to share that I’ve trailed and tested a significant number of pairs.
Now, with the Liverpool half marathon and Manchester marathon on the horizon, I’m confident I’ve found the trainers that work for me and maybe you.
Nike Peasgus
No good collection is complete until a pair of Nike trainers is added to the midst. After being voted the top Strava 2024 shoe, it’s easy to see why.
Introduced in 1983 as a shoe for every runner, they certainly live up to their name. I tend to keep the comfortable shoes for longer distances – anything over 12km – as they make the last few miles feel light when everything else is feeling sluggish
This is my third pair of Pegasus, and while the two previous pairs didn’t disappoint, these have proven themselves to be head and shoulders above the others, and it’s only been a few weeks.
I opted for the 41 men’s road running shoes in black and white (£129.99) to coordinate with my running gear easily and to make the cross-line photo all that more stylish.
I love to match them with the 1000 mile’s £15 men’s fusion double-layer sport sock. Paired together, they have the ideal number of layers for reduced friction and subsequent blisters. Overall, the two are a treat for hard-working feet.
M&S Goodmove
Initially, I went for these shoes, thinking they would be ideal for shorter runs, especially in the winter when it’s hard to escape the puddles and mud. However, I quickly found that the shoe’s brick-like sturdiness made it sound like thunder was about to happen at any moment.
This was unbeknown to me for some time, as my headphones drowned out any sound. However, after the battery drained and I was forced to listen to the repeating slapping for another 25 minutes, I swore they wouldn’t be used for running again. Although having said that their weakness is also what sets them apart from what else is out there on the market.
Their thickness and grip make them perfect for strength and conditioning training – another key element for runners – in the gym and for a quarter of the price of other brands. The shoes retail at £49.50 and were released as part of the retail supermarket’s new fitness range. They are currently selling for £35.
Decathlon
As they weren’t suitable for my shorter distances, I did revert back to my trusty Decathlon shoes. They also have essential features for runners, but what amazes me most about these is their durability.
I’ve run in them at least a couple of hundred times during all types of weather, and they’ve only had little wear and tear and have yet to let me down – especially on the all-important race day. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen them on shelves for some time now, but if I had to choose, the Adidas Galaxy 7 men’s running shoes would be very similar, for £30.
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