When Puma revealed five radical prototypes at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, the running shoe world laughed. With their jagged midsoles and sky-high stacks, the prototypes looked more like science projects gone wrong than functional footwear. But behind the spectacle was a deliberate strategy built on a simple idea: innovation flourishes when out-of-the-box thinking is applied to constraints.

Almost a decade earlier, Nike鈥檚 carbon-plated Vaporfly sparked a revolution that redefined what running shoes could do. Nike athletes wearing the Vaporfly dominated races around the world. In an effort to put guardrails on what athletes could wear during competition, to contain the chaos, capping stack heights, restricting plates, and forcing innovation to evolve within strict rules.

With the rules established and boundaries clear, it was up to designers and engineers to innovate within those limits. No company has embraced that challenge quite like Puma. While Nike, Asics, and Adidas dominate the spotlight, Puma鈥檚 recent innovations reveal that they are very much on the cutting edge of, if not leading, shoe design.

Boldly Blowing Past Boundaries

Consider the launch of Puma鈥檚 Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 in early 2024, the second iteration of their flagship raceday shoe. Puma pioneered the use of , a new midsole foam that had never been applied in this context. At the time, PEBA was the gold standard for super shoe foams, but A-TPU surpassed it in both energy return and resilience. It didn鈥檛 take long for other shoe brands to follow suit. Today, A-TPU is on a trajectory to become the new de facto super foam, already appearing in models from , , and .

Then, around the 2025 Boston Marathon, Puma unveiled the Fast-R NITRO Elite 3, along with Puma-funded lab tests that showed up to a 3.6 % improvement in running economy compared with leading super shoes like the Nike Alphafly 3 and Adidas Adios Pro Evo. Since then, Puma has tested the shoe with over 100 athletes across a range of abilities, and reported that every participant showed improved running economy over competitor models. While I haven鈥檛 done lab measurements on running economy, I have done a . Running a set loop with a similar effort in each shoe, I found that the Puma delivered one of the fastest reps.

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Picking the best road running shoe isn鈥檛 as simple as it used to be. As shoe technology has advanced, so have the options. With lighter, bouncier midsoles, comfort-focused uppers, bold new geometries, and embedded plates that boost efficiency and stability, there鈥檚 now a shoe for every type of run, making it harder than ever to know which one is right for you.

To help you choose the right running shoe for you, we continually test every new release with a diverse team of more than 20 runners, spanning a wide range of abilities and experience levels. Whether you鈥檙e a beginner learning to love running or a veteran chasing a new marathon PR, our road running shoe guide is here to help you find the perfect fit.

Updated October 2025: We鈥檝e selected new models in eight out of 16 categories and updated prices and availability for all the best road running shoes in the guide.

The post The Best Road Running Shoes for Training and Racing (Fall 2025) appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Trail running allows us to lose ourselves in the environment while we sweat out the day鈥檚 worries or share joyful miles with friends. The best trail running shoes take us where we want to go with confidence and comfort. Our team is constantly researching, testing, and comparing new trail running shoe releases with the tried-and-true favorites. Our fleet of testers hit the dirt on rutty Santa Barbara bluffs, rocky Colorado peaks, sage-strewn Nebraska sandhills, soggy Virginia forest pathways, and more diverse terrains. After miles and miles (and miles) of trails, these are the trail shoes that have risen to the top.

Update October 2025: We鈥檝e updated our 鈥淏est Trail Running Shoes All-Around鈥� pick with the slightly modified Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 and chosen new winners for 鈥淏est for Speedy Scrambles鈥� and for 鈥淏est for Groomed Trails/Gravel.鈥� We also added a 鈥淏est Run/Hike Shoe鈥� category. We are continually testing and will be updating this list of best trail running shoes throughout the year as new models impress our testers and editors.

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There鈥檚 nothing better than stepping out the door in a light, airy pair of running shorts on a crisp fall day with a slight chill brushing your legs, knowing that a mile in, you鈥檒l warm up to that perfect running temperature. The ideal running shorts should be so comfortable you barely notice them鈥攏o bunching, chafing, or restriction鈥攁nd look good, too. We tested over 50 pairs in all sorts of environments to find the best running shorts available, whatever your pace, terrain, or style.

Updated September 2025: After a summer of testing, we replaced two category winners and added two new categories: Best Wear-Anywhere and Best 7-Inch shorts.

While you鈥檙e at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for men.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Men (Fall 2025): Tested and Reviewed appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

As we ease into fall and the temperatures start to dip, delivering some of the best running weather of the year, it鈥檚 the perfect moment to reassess your go-to gear, starting with your running shirts.

Whether you prefer a featherlight tank or a warmer short sleeve, the right top can help regulate temperature, reduce chafing, and even give you a mental edge by making you feel fast and ready to rip. To find the best running shirts out there, we tested over 50 short-sleeve t-shirts and tanks to uncover the most eye-catching, top-performing moisture-wicking tops for men.

September 2025 Update: After testing dozens of new running shirts, we named new winners in four categories.

We again called on the for objective lab measurements on air permeability and dry time to help you select the best running shirt for you. Be sure to check out the 鈥淗ow We Test鈥� section below for more details on our methodologies and how to interpret the lab data.

The post The Best Running Shirts for Men (Fall 2025): Field and Lab Tested appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The biggest factors in marathon success are your training, pacing, hydration, and fueling鈥攂ut the right racing shoes can make all the difference. A well-chosen marathon shoe reduces impact, boosts energy return, and offers the cushioning and stability you need to cover 26.2 miles comfortably. As new marathon racing shoes come out, the 国产吃瓜黑料 team and I continually test them to determine the top picks. Here are the best marathon shoes you can buy today.

Updated August 2025: After testing new shoes released in summer 2025, we updated this guide, naming new winners in three categories: the PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 as the runner-up for best overall, the Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo as the most stable, and the Asics Megablast as the best for beginners.聽

The post The 12 Best Marathon Racing Shoes for Every Type of Runner appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If you鈥檙e a runner, walker, yogi, rock climber, or participant in nearly any active pastime, your feet endure a tremendous load, making your choice of footwear critical. While most people spend hours researching the perfect workout shoes, they give far less attention to their recovery shoes鈥攚hat they wear after the workout session is over.

Neglecting your feet after a workout or run can exacerbate foot alignment problems and muscle soreness, impeding your foot’s ability to recover. Recovery footwear is designed to support your tired feet, allowing them to move in their natural patterns and accelerating the recovery process while helping relieve any aches and pains.

Whether you’re nursing sore arches, rebuilding after a long run, or just relaxing, these recovery shoes, slides, and sandals will keep your feet happy and your performance at its best.

At A Glance

• Best Overall:
• Runner-Up:
• Best Value:
• Best Recovery Sandal:
• Best Recovery Slide:
• Best Recovery Shoe:
• Best Rugged:
• Best for Plantar Fasciitis:
• Best Winter Recovery Shoe:
• How to Choose Recovery Footwear
• How We Tested
• Meet Our Lead Tester

Best Overall

Kuru Moment

Pros and Cons
鈯� Adjustable strap for better fit
鈯� Supportive heel cup and footbed
鈯� Ribbed footbed
鈯� Stiff, thick midsole reduces ground proprioception

From the moment you slip into the Kuru Moment, it鈥檚 clear that cushioning, comfort, and support are the shoe鈥檚 main priorities. Specifically designed to reduce foot and heel pain, the Kuru Moment quickly became a unanimous tester favorite. One tester called it 鈥渨ildly comfortable鈥� and said, 鈥淚t鈥檚 one of the models I kept popping on after the wear test or at the end of the day or post run/workout,鈥�

Underfoot, the thick EVA midsole strikes a balance between plush cushioning and structured support, creating a soft yet stable foundation. A deep heel cup gently secures the heel, while the pronounced arch support provides reliable lift and alignment. The Moment offered noticeable relief for my chronic heel pain, delivering extended pain-free comfort post-run.

A ribbed footbed provides a pleasantly tactile feel with each step that adds to the overall comfort. The heavily padded adjustable velcro strap enables a fine-tuned fit regardless of your foot width.

Available in two sleek, dark, monotone colorways, this slide-style sandal has a refined, sporty aesthetic. While many recovery sandals can appear a bit unpolished, the Moment strikes an elevated look that鈥檚 ideal for running errands or casual outings.

Runner-Up

Topo Rekovr 2

Pros and Cons
鈯� Easy slip-on design
鈯� Comfortable, natural feeling
鈯� Wool upper runs hot

Another favorite among all our testers, the Topo Rekovr 2 won over our hearts and tired feet. Reminiscent of your coziest slipper, it combines dynamic support and a comfortable, wide-toe-box fit with suburb traction. One tester raved, 鈥淭his is by far my favorite slip-on I鈥檝e ever owned.鈥�

Where the Rekovr 2 really shines is in the outdoors. Its easy slip-on design is paired with a tacky Vibram outsole offering traction that reminded us of Topo鈥檚 award-winning trail shoes. One tester found it to be the perfect choice for wearing around the cabin, by the fire pit, or for short outings like waiting at the bus stop with the kids, while another kept them by the door for sure-footed trips across the yard to feed his dogs or check the mail, regardless of the weather.

Found to promote good foot health by the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Rekovr 2 features a modest stack height of 23 millimeters in the heel and 20 millimeters in the forefoot with a semi-flexible sole for a natural recovery experience. Ribbed insoles provide a tantalizing sole massage with a cushioned, comfortable step-in feel.

Its only flaw, which kept it from claiming the title of best overall, is the antimicrobial blended wool upper that retains heat. It can feel stuffy in hot and humid conditions, making it only a cool weather choice, whereas the Kuru Moment can be worn for more of the year.

Best Value

Velous Hoya Adjustable Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft footbed
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� Good arch support
鈯� Adjustable strap adapts fit for different feet
鈯� Questionable durability

The Velous Active Slide delivers impressive value for its price. It features one of the softer footbeds we tested over a firmer outsole. The combo delivers a cushioned underfoot feeling with added structure and durability. One tester described it as 鈥渋ncredibly lightweight, with excellent arch support and a secure fit.鈥�

The Active Slide provides a balance between stability and flexibility. The deep heel cup not only enhances stability around the rear foot but also helps align the foot with each step, minimizing strain. Meanwhile, the comfortable, structured arch support offers relief for those with flat feet or high arches. Flex grooves in the forefoot encourage a smooth, natural stride, allowing the toes to move freely during push-off while maintaining just enough overall support. What really stood out was the adjustable strap. At this price point, you rarely find a customizable fit that accommodates a variety of foot shapes and widths.

Remarkably lightweight, it feels airy, almost like you鈥檙e wearing nothing while still getting a cushioned underfoot experience. The downside, one tester noted, is that they 鈥渇eel much less substantial than every other slide we tested.鈥� Still, priced competitively, they provide one of the best bangs for your buck.

Best Recovery Sandal

OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

Pros and Cons
鈯� Secure fit
鈯� Uber soft footbed
鈯� No half sizes

The OOFOS OOriginal Sandal emerged as the best thong-style sandal in our test group. 鈥淭he cushioning, styling, and arch support all combine to make a well-packaged, functional, and extremely comfortable pair of footwear,鈥� said one tester.

Pioneers in using ultra-cushioned materials and molded arch support, OOFOS has set the standard for thong-style comfort. At the heart of the OOriginal Sandal is the OOfoam technology鈥攁n uber-soft foam that鈥檚 extremely shock-absorbing and squishy. Many testers found the foam just what they needed after a hard workout. One tester with severe heel pain found the soft foam coupled with the deep contoured footbed eased his suffering. Another tester, however, said the foam footbed lacked stability and made his feet work harder鈥攑roviding an active recovery but not relaxed support.

Made from closed-cell foam, these sandals boast impressive durability, standing up to daily wear and tear. The moisture- and bacteria-resistant material keeps them fresh even with extended use, and best of all, they鈥檙e machine washable for easy cleaning.

The straps are made with the same soft foam that鈥檚 underfoot, giving the sandal a comfortable and accommodating fit. Even our narrow-footed tester, who typically struggles with sizing issues, found these fit well. The only caveat is they only come in full sizes. If you鈥檙e in between sizes, we recommend sizing down.

Best Recovery Slide

Hoka Ora Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Stable platform
鈯� Smooth rockered feeling
鈯� Some may find it firm
鈯� Stiff strap

The Hoka Ora Slide brings that classic thick-soled and uber-comfortable Hoka experience to a recovery slide. 鈥淚t has a 鈥渧ery similar underfoot feel to most of Hoka鈥檚 inline footwear,鈥� noted one tester.

That鈥檚 because the Ora Slide features their signature early-stage meta-rocker technology in which the midsole is cut away under the forefoot creating an upward curve that rolls you forward with each footstep. The injection-molded sugarcane EVA midsole runs on the firmer end of the spectrum, providing a less squishy but very stable platform. Still, I found that the Ora Slide provided ample cushioning as well as heel support, effectively easing my chronic heel pain.

The strap is made from the same firm EVA material as the midsole and has a ton of structure. While none of our testers found it uncomfortable, one found the fit less than ideal on his irregular, gnarled feet. Those with particularly wide or narrow feet might prefer more adjustability for a better fit through the midfoot.

Weighing in at just over seven ounces, it鈥檚 remarkably light on the feet and easy to wear. Perhaps the best part is the selection of over twenty different colorways. With so many options, you鈥檙e sure to find a pair that matches your style and preferences.

Best Recovery Shoe

Roll Recovery Superplush

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfortable knit upper
鈯� Fosters natural foot movement
鈯� Versatile, wear-all-day look and feel
鈯� Not as supportive as some

While most recovery footwear options favor comfort over looks, the Roll Recovery Superplush manages to combine both. With its sleek design and premium materials, it offers a stylish alternative without compromising on the comfort and support needed for tired, aching feet.

Perfect for running errands or just lounging around the house, the Superplush is easy to slip on and off, yet one tester noted: 鈥漁nce on, the fit held securely enough I didn’t have to worry about sliding around or clenching my toes to stay in the shoe.鈥�

Instead of a stiff, thick sole that some find prescriptive, the Superplush offers a flexible and grounded underfoot experience, allowing your feet to move freely. One tester praised it as offering 鈥渁 stable, comfortable platform that feels supportive without being overbearing.鈥�

The standout feature of the shoe is the soft, stretchy knit upper. It鈥檚 incredibly breathable, making it ideal for all-day wear in warmer temps, and it feels luxuriously soft against the skin. Slipping these on was akin to stepping into a pair of cozy slippers.

As an added bonus, rest assured that you鈥檙e buying a sustainably made product. The Superplush uses Bloom Foam technology, which replaces petroleum-based materials with eco-friendly, algae-derived alternatives, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing comfort or performance.

Best Rugged

Arc鈥檛eryx Kragg

Pros and Cons
鈯� Sleek design
鈯� Comfortable, stretchy upper
鈯� Grippy Vibram outsole
鈯� Expensive

If there’s one thing Arc’teryx excels at, it鈥檚 seamlessly blending form and function with clean, attractive aesthetics, and the Kragg is no exception. This shoe is an absolute stunner. Originally built as a slip-on approach shoe for rock climbers, the Kragg is so comfortable it quickly became my go-to when I need a stylish, plush, easy on/off option for recovery.

Perfect as a travel shoe or jetting around town, the Kragg features a stretchy single mesh upper that鈥檚 streamlined and extremely accommodating. The interior is so soft and smooth against the skin that it鈥檚 perfect for going sockless.

The soft, collapsible heel wrap鈥攔esembling neoprene鈥攇ently molds to the shape of your heel, providing a snug yet nonconstricting feel. Inside, the removable insole doubles as the midsole, providing just enough underfoot cushioning to dampen landings without sacrificing sensitivity and sole flexibility. Sturdy TPU and Vibram rubber sidewalls plus a reinforced toe cap provide great protection against rugged terrain. And the Vibram Megagrip outsole shines over rocky terrain with enough grip on dirt to feel secure. I felt secure and comfy in this hybrid active/recovery shoe from the trail to the sofa.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

OOFOS OOahh Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great arch support
鈯� Soft footbed
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� Not great for narrow feet

Plantar fasciitis can be downright debilitating. The sharp pain radiates through the bottom of your feet and makes even standing difficult. To help ease the agony, you need footwear that provides adequate support through the arch while being soft and cushioned in the heel. Testers found the OOFOS Slide fit that bill better than any other recovery footwear tested. While it may not cure plantar fasciitis, one PF-suffering tester noted, 鈥淚t makes getting through your day a whole lot more comfortable.鈥�

The comfort lies in the exceptionally soft and contoured footbed, complete with built-in arch support. Designed to reduce stress on the knees, ankles, and joints, the patented footbed delivered on its promise, with our testers agreeing it made a noticeable difference in how they felt post-workout. One tester with chronic plantar fasciitis and mobility issues found immediate relief while wearing them.

Beyond its comfortable footbed, the slide is impressively lightweight, offering a barely-there feel. The main drawback is the non-adjustable strap. While it secured most of our tester’s feet comfortably, one tester with very narrow feet found the fit loose and sloppy.

Best Winter Recovery Shoe

Adidas Winter Slip-On Cold.Rdy Boots

Pros and Cons
鈯� Exceptionally warm
鈯� Tough durable outer layer
鈯� Ankle collar鈥檚 snug fit can cause pressure

The Adidas winter slip-on is an excellent choice for those needing a quick and easy-on/off recovery shoe for cold climates. Providing insulation and a weather-resistant exterior, they鈥檙e ideal for slipping on after a ski or snowboard session, taking the dog out in tundra-like conditions or just lounging around on lazy winter days.

Made with a cozy combination of PrimaLoft庐 ECO and PrimaLoft庐 Gold insulation, the interior feels as comfortable as your favorite fleece. These puppies are warm, too鈥攍ike a mini toaster oven for your feet!

Underfoot, the slip-on is firm, grounded, and well-protected. The Continental rubber outsole with a heavily lugged pattern provides outstanding grip while a tough molded toe cap offers a 鈥渓ittle clumsiness protection,鈥� as one tester put it.

Another tester noted that the ankle collar felt slightly snug, creating a bit of pressure along the top of the foot. This pressure eased a bit the longer we wore them, but it鈥檚 something to consider for those with wider ankles.

How to Choose Recovery Footwear

Type: Shoe, Sandal, Slide or Slip-on

Recovery footwear comes in various styles, each offering a slightly different experience that may be more suited for a particular activity or use case. Generally speaking, recovery footwear will come in one of the following designs: shoe, sandal, slide, or slip-on.

Recovery shoes look and fit like your everyday shoes. They have a closed heel and some sort of enclosure device like laces, drawstring, or BOA. Recovery shoes are great for extended uses like running everyday errands or walking longer distances.

Slip-ons are similar to recovery shoes with their closed heel but they stay secure using a stretchy upper, allowing for easy on and off. The closed heel offers stability, while the slip-on design makes them ultra convenient for travel, around-the-house and in-the-yard wear, or for those with busy, on-the-go lifestyles wanting quick shoe transitions.

A sandal, otherwise known as a flip flop, features a flat sole attached to the foot by a Y-shaped strap or thong that sits between the toes. Flip flops are easy to slip on and off, making them great for quick errands and short, casual outings. Because they are usually worn without socks and leave feet open to the elements, they are limited to warmer weather

A slide, like a sandal, is an open-toe shoe. However, instead of a thong, it features a single wide strap or multiple straps across the top of the foot, allowing the shoe to be easily “slid” on and off, hence the name 鈥渟lide.鈥� Slides tend to have a more casual, athletic appearance and are great for lounging around the house and quick errands.

Cushioning

Perhaps the most important aspect of recovery footwear is to make sure you have adequate cushioning and shock absorption as they help relieve pressure on tired feet and support recovery after activity. Cushioning in recovery footwear typically involves soft, dense foam materials like Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) that provide a plush feel underfoot. This padding absorbs impact with every step, easing strain on muscles, tendons, and joints. By minimizing the force transferred to the feet, shock absorption can significantly reduce soreness and prevent further strain, making recovery footwear beneficial for post-run care and overall foot health.

How much cushioning is somewhat of a personal preference. Thick, cushioned recovery shoes like the OOFOS Stride will feel soft underfoot but come with the trade-off of reduced ground proprioception and feel. If you prefer more connection with the ground, a lower-cushion option like the Topo Rekovr 2 or Roll Recovery Superplush may be better. Ultimately, the key is finding recovery footwear that feels comfortable and promotes relaxation.

Support

Underfoot and arch support can vary from one recovery footwear to another. Some will have a stiff sole with noticeable arch support, while others will offer a more flexible, natural feeling with minimal support. Like cushioning level, how much support you need depends on your personal preference. However, in general, those needing added stability should look to stiffer options such as the Kuru Moment or Hoka Ora Slide, while others might favor a softer, more adaptable design such as the Topo Rekovr or Roll Recovery Superplush.

How We Tested

For this test, we brought in the expertise of four testers with varied backgrounds鈥攆rom running, rock climbing, and yoga to travel, plus a running store owner who spends all day on his feet. We started by researching the top recovery shoes and sandals based on customer feedback and reviews to determine which shoes and sandals we would test. Based on that research, we tested a total of 17 pairs of recovery shoes and sandals from 11 brands. Testers had a little over a month to wear the sandals and report back with their results. Each tester was asked to rank their favorites across nine different categories.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Cory Smith has been reviewing footwear for 国产吃瓜黑料 since 2014, testing over 70 pairs each year. Splitting his time between Santa Barbara, CA, and Philadelphia, PA, Cory has been an avid runner, rock climber, and skier for more than 30 years. With his 30-mile running weeks and climbing sessions two to three times a week, his feet take a beating, making him a fan of thick-soled, cushioned recovery shoes. In addition to reviewing running gear, Cory operates a private online running coaching business, .

The post Ease Your Tired Feet with These 9 Best Recovery Shoes, Slides, and Sandals appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

For years, I鈥檝e viewed kinesiology tape鈥攖hose brightly colored stripes you see on the legs and shoulders of athletes鈥攁s nothing more than snake oil, something people used for show without any real benefits. All my experiences with athletic tape involved protecting an injured joint by tightly wrapping and immobilizing it. I was skeptical that a few strips of tape on the skin could do much.

I hadn鈥檛, however, actually used the product. So when I was invited to attend a summit to learn the science behind a new kinesiology tape product and try it out, I eagerly accepted the invite. As someone deeply passionate about running, climbing, and skiing, and having seen many pro-level athletes embrace the tape, I was intrigued to personally discover if there was substance behind the hype or if it was merely smoke and mirrors, as I had previously believed.

KT Tape funded the travel for this review, but our opinions are our own. If you click or buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

What is Kinesiology Tape?

Kinesiology tape is a stretchy, elastic cotton strip with an adhesive backing. I learned it is designed to replicate the elasticity and thickness of human skin, offering support, stability, and pain relief while allowing free movement. It is most commonly used by athletes and physical therapists to aid in the treatment of muscle and joint injuries and enhance performance by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

When applied correctly, kinesiology tape lifts the skin, decompressing the fascia and allowing lymphatic fluid to drain rather than build up. Blockage of lymphatic fluid can cause swelling and pain. Lifting the skin and opening up blood flow also facilitates the transport of white blood cells to the area, thus reducing harmful bacteria and waste products from cells and tissues.

When I looked at the scientific literature on kinesiology tape, I found the evidence mixed. While some studies suggest that it may provide benefits such as pain relief, improved muscle function, and reduced swelling, other research indicates that its effects may be no different from a placebo.

One found its benefits trivial, citing it “may have a small beneficial role in improving strength and range of motion in certain injured cohorts,鈥� but went on to say that further studies are needed to confirm these findings. Another , this one in 2015, found applying kinesiology tape was 鈥渟uperior to minimal intervention for pain relief,鈥� (or, put another way, better than doing nothing) but concluded it was not better than other treatments to reduce pain. This ambiguity only reinforced my skepticism, but also increased my interest in why the tape has become so popular.

How I Tested KT Ice Pro Tape

The summit, held in Park City, Utah, centered around the launch of , a new kinesiology tape infused with cooling menthol. Menthol, a compound available in both natural and synthetic forms, reduces pain sensation when applied to the skin by creating a cooling effect. KT Tape Pro Ice incorporates menthol into its adhesive, providing the dual benefits of kinesiology tape and pain-numbing menthol.

The event planners鈥� strategy was to spend time working out鈥攕kiing and snowshoeing鈥攖o induce muscle soreness and fatigue, then use KT Tape Pro Ice to alleviate that soreness and any accompanying pains. Doubtful that the menthol-infused version would make any difference, I was in for a surprise.

KT Tape Pro Ice

As an avid runner, I frequently deal with nagging aches and injuries. Currently, I’ve been grappling with a persistent Achilles injury, which鈥攄espite using topical pain relievers, seeing physical therapists, and even considering surgery鈥攈as been an issue for several years. I was hopeful that Pro Ice might help. I have Haglund’s deformity, a large bump on the back of my heel that, when pressure is applied, swells and causes pain. Since ski boots fit tightly, I鈥檓 usually in pain immediately following a day of skiing. This time was no exception. We were slated to go snowshoeing the night after skiing, creating a perfect test of KT Tape Pro Ice鈥檚 pain-relieving qualities.

After skiing, we were handed samples of KT Tape Pro Ice and instructed to apply it to any painful areas. Experts were available to assist with the application. The proper application method, they explained, is called . You stretch the center of the tape, apply it to the skin, and leave about two inches unstretched at each end to secure it to your limb. Given I was completely new to this, I opted to have an expert apply it to ensure it was done correctly.

Within a few minutes, I could feel the menthol working. There was a strong cooling sensation that did indeed seem to override my pain. Usually, my Achilles stiffens when I rest after activity, but the tape also helped alleviate that. It felt like it prevented my Achilles from cooling down and tightening up during periods of inactivity. I could feel the menthol working for around four hours, and it reactivated when I started sweating during snowshoeing.

Once I got home, I continued testing KT Tape Pro Ice on my Achilles when it was sore and also on my lower back for pain caused by moving large heavy objects. When applying the tape at home, the cooling effect was nowhere near as strong on my Achilles as it was initially at the event, but it felt stronger on my lower back pain.

We were told that each person would experience the menthol differently. Some may have a strong reaction to the cooling, with it lasting four to eight hours, while others may not feel anything at all, adding the cooling effect may even vary between applications on the same person.聽 Apart from this warning that the cooling effect may vary between applications and body parts, and the fact that I was applying it myself, I’m unsure why it wasn’t as effective on my Achilles on subsequent applications. Luckily, my Achilles has not been painful enough that I felt I needed serious relief鈥攚hich may be another explanation for the reduced sensation.

I鈥檝e continued to test it on various body parts such as sore forearms from rock climbing and sore thighs from running鈥攁nd each time it provided pain relief and improved post-soreness mobility.

I still haven鈥檛 tried kinesiology tape without menthol, and I鈥檓 not sure I鈥檒l need to as long as I have the Pro Ice version. The addition of menthol really brings the tape to life. Every time I鈥檝e used it, I immediately feel the tape working, significantly reducing my perception of soreness, and allowing me to work out again sooner. After testing KT Tape Pro Ice, I’m completely convinced of its benefits and have even become somewhat addicted to it.

Here鈥檚 the thing: KT Tape is safe鈥攏o scientific studies I鈥檓 aware of have reported adverse effects from using it. Furthermore, while the studies are ambiguous about its benefits, there are countless anecdotal stories of KT Tape helping individuals manage injuries during both exercise and daily activities for many years. If the worst outcome of it not working is losing a few bucks, there’s little reason not to try it.

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Ever since Nike introduced the Vaporfly 4% in 2017, brands have competed fiercly to craft the ultimate road racing shoe. Commonly referred to as “supershoes,” this innovative footwear employs high-rebound foams and curved, rigid plates to enhance running efficiency while minimizing muscle damage.

Simply put, these high-performance shoes are engineered to make you run faster with greater ease. And they work, as proven in labs and on roads around the world. Designers have struggled, however, to harness the performance-enhancing benefits of road-running supershoes for the trail. (See our full list of the best trail running shoes.)

The Challenge of Trail Supershoes

The difficulty stems from the very components that make a supershoe super: a stiff plate, combined with a tall stack of soft and bouncy midsole, creates an unstable and potentially ankle-breaking platform on the undulating and rocky terrain of trail running. To deal with the unpredictability of trails, companies have adjusted the full-length stiff plates found in road supershoes and introduced forked- or parallel-plate designs, aiming for enhanced flexibility and adaptability to diverse terrains. While they鈥檝e succeeded in creating comfortable and capable trail supershoes, some award-winning and podium-gracing, none have captured the full magic. Some shoes struggle to handle varied terrain effectively while others fail to deliver the efficiency and recovery benefits witnessed in road supershoes.

As one of 国产吃瓜黑料’s shoe testers for the last nine years, I can confidently say that no plated trail supershoe to date has delivered the same level of ride and benefits as provided by road-running counterparts. Until now.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

Weight: 9.5 oz (men), 8.1 oz (women)
Stack Height: 38鈥�30 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons

鈯� Fast, smooth, and lively ride
鈯� Adaptive stability
鈯� Not great in really rocky terrain

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra Review

The Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is the culmination of a two-year collaborative project with Adidas professional runner Tom Evans, driven by the singular goal of creating footwear optimized for speed in the Western States Endurance Run, which Evans won in 2023, and Ruth Croft won in 2022, both wearing a prototype. The strategy was to leverage the successful elements found in their road supershoe, the Adizero Adios Pro 3, and tailor them specifically for trail running.

Having tested both the Adizero Adios Pro 3 and the Agravic Speed Ultra, I can vouch that the Adidas team was successful. During my testing, the Agravic Speed Ultra exhibited a lively, forward-propelling motion similar to that of the Adizero Adios Pro 3, with perhaps even a little more bounce.

The Agravic Speed Ultra features an ultralight, hyper-bouncy, gas-infused TPEE Lightstrike Pro midsole with embedded, curved Energy Rods (like the Adizero Adios Pro 3). In lieu of a solid plate, Adidas uses independent rods that roughly parallel the bones in the foot, and are made of Pebax in its hard plastic form as often found in track spike plates. The Agravic Speed Ultra鈥檚 trail-specific configuration features four prongs in the forefoot and two in the heel, which are splayed wider and closer to the edges than those in Adidas鈥檚 road shoes to enhance stability, and flex independently, to adapt to uneven terrain underfoot.

Deep, sculpted sidewalls surround the heel, delivering secure landings, and a narrow midfoot waist widens to a generous, flared forefoot, providing an agile and stable stance. The aggressively rockered shape from heel to toe feels pronounced and a bit odd out of the box but comes to life on the run. The shoe naturally lands midfoot first, but as your balance shifts forward, the rockered forefoot transitions your weight through the toes, giving the shoe an effortless forward roll. At nearly every pace, the shoe provided a propulsive thrust forward with each stride as my foot landed, compressed the foam in the scooped curve of the rocker鈥攖hat starts at just the right location past the ball of the foot鈥攁nd rebounded as I rolled onto my toes.

One of the biggest concerns with any plated trail running shoe is the potential for the stiff plate to induce lateral instability, torquing or bouncing the stride sideways when it becomes unbalanced. My typical local testing loop is a winding, hilly, smooth singletrack with significant off-camber footing and short sections of modestly rocky and technical footing. For such a tall shoe (38mm/30mm), I was worried all the off-camber running would be dicey; however, I found the Agravic Speed Ultra to fare considerably well. Between the spacing and flexibility of the Energy Rods and the wide forefoot, the shoe felt controlled through all terrain challenges. I did feel that the stack height started to feel tippy in extremely rocky terrain, and for truly technical trails, I would want a shoe that sits closer to the ground.

One of Cory Smith’s routes for testing the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra:

I usually approach running downhill cautiously, consistently keeping one foot on the brake, but when wearing the Agravic Speed Ultra鈥檚, I experienced a bit of a personality change. The combination of the rockered heel, cushioned midsole, and grippy outsole instilled confidence, enabling me to cast aside my typical timidity and unleash a more unrestrained approach downhill. In other words, I bombed down slopes with abandon.

The Agravic Speed Ultra absolutely shines on smoother, runnable terrain where you can put the pedal to the metal without hesitation. My pace quickened in smooth, open terrain without much additional effort. The shoe naturally wants to move fast and efficiently. The faster and harder you push it, the more energy it gives back.

The foot-hugging, breathable upper is made with thin woven abrasion-resistant mesh. Strategically placed overlays add durability and support. As is common for a racing shoe, the tongue, heel collar, and counter are razor-thin with no extra padding or support to keep weight to a minimum. While I found the midfoot lockdown to be on point, the thin, unstructured heel allowed some heel lift. This wasn鈥檛 enough to cause performance issues, but a more supportive heel would be nice on the trail.

The Agravic Speed Ultra features a thin version of Adidas鈥� signature grippy Continental rubber outsole. To enhance traction during cornering, the outsole employs 2.5mm lugs inspired by bike tire design, with slightly larger 3mm lugs on the edges for an increased bite when cornering. I found the grip on packed dirt and rock to be outstanding; however, the rather shallow lug depth felt skittish on loose kitty-litter-type footing.

While we haven鈥檛 yet tested the performance gains in the lab, my experience in the Adidas Agravic Speed Ultra鈥攁nd that of other 国产吃瓜黑料 testers, some who reported running four to five percent faster than usual with the same effort鈥攃onvinces me that it compares with carbon-plated road marathon racers and stands out as the first plated trail shoe that earns the title of supershoe. And it delivers these benefits without compromising its trail-handling creds. It impressed us enough to garner our Editors鈥� Choice award for best new trail running shoe this year.

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The world was introduced to the ground-breaking, futuristic-looking Alphafly on the feet of Eliud Kipchoge when he broke the two-hour marathon barrier in October 2019. Overnight, every marathon runner wanted a pair, and they finally had the chance to buy their own in June 2020.

Two years later, Nike released its second iteration of the popular Alphafly. Seeking to fix some stability issues for non-elite runners in the original Alphafly, the newly updated Alphafly 2 received mixed reviews. While some stability issues were resolved, many die-hard Alphafly fans felt the Alphafly 2 wasn鈥檛 as bouncy as the original.

Now, only 18 months after the release of the Alphafly 2, Nike is again updating the cult classic. and we have our hands on an early pair. It’s already set a marathon world record on the feet of Kelvin Kiptum in Chicago, but how does it perform for mortals?聽Here鈥檚 everything you need to know about the all-new Nike Alphafly 3 and our first impressions.

Nike Alphafly 3 Specs

MSRP: $275
Weight: 7.7 ounces (men鈥檚 10); 6.2 ounces (women鈥檚 8)
Stack Height: <40 millimeters
Drop: 8 millimeters
Release Date:

What鈥檚 New

• Continuous bottom, versus disjointed forefoot and heel on the previous two Alphafly models, for smoother heel-to-toe transitions
• The lightest Alphafly ever made, coming in 15% lighter than the Alphafly 2 and 4% lighter than the original Alphafly
• Wider last and carbon fiber plate through the midfoot for better arch support and overall stability
• Tweaked ZoomX midsole compression ratio for better performance and reduced weight
• Placement of Air Zoom units adjusted both horizontally and vertically in the midsole to enable more use and give more energy back to the runner
• Reductive midsole geometry to reduce weight and place more midsole in areas you need it and less in places you don鈥檛
• Fast Shot outsole that鈥檚 lighter while still offering superior grip and traction
• Softer and more comfortable Atomkit 3.0 upper that uses lighter Flyknit yarns and a redesigned lacing system

The Lowdown on the Update

The Alphafly was designed to be Nike鈥檚 most advanced marathon-specific shoe. However, Bret Schoolmeester, senior product director of Nike running footwear, says Nike still saw a mix of Vaporflys and Alphaflys on marathoners. For this update, Schoolmeester explains, 鈥淭he overall goal was to increase the adoption of the Alphafly 3 as our pinnacle marathon-specific shoe.鈥� To achieve this, Schoolmeester and his team identified three areas in which to improve the Alphafly: transition, comfort, and stability.

This process started with enlisting Nike鈥檚 largest testing pool ever, which included over 300 elite and non-elite runners, with a concerted effort to include more female testers. Schoolmeester explained that focusing more on female testers represents a shift they鈥檙e making聽 throughout Nike running, adding, 鈥淲e’ve noticed that our female wear testers, in general, tend to be more vocal and more articulate on ways that we can be better.鈥� The result is a higher standard and, ultimately, a better product.

It鈥檚 clear just by looking at the Alphafly 3 that it鈥檚 a very different shoe than the first two versions. Instead of a disjoined forefoot and rearfoot, Nike opted for a traditional continuous sole. This was a clear signal Nike wanted to make it a better-transitioning shoe for runners who touchdown on the heel to midfoot. Additionally, Nike increased the width of the last, midsole, and carbon-fiber plate around the midfoot. These tweaks were meant to increase the transition, comfort, and stability of the ride as well as prevent irritation in the arch, which Schoolmeester acknowledged was an issue in past Alphaflys.

In terms of the midsole, you鈥檒l still find full-length ZoomX but a slightly different variation than we鈥檝e seen before from Nike. When pressed for specifics, Schoolmeester said, 鈥淚 can’t share a bunch more, but basically, how we’re treating the preform design and using compression ratios. We’ve really started to tinker to get the best possible performance out of the foam while reducing weight, similar to Vaporfly 3, but not exact.鈥�

Embedded in the tweaked ZoomX midsole is the full-length carbon fiber plate that鈥檚 wider in the midfoot, and two forefoot Air Zoom units. While the Air Zoom units are unchanged, Nike obsessed over where to place them, adjusting their position horizontally and vertically in the forefoot so that a wider range of runners, including lighter runners, could fully engage the pods of pressurized air and tightly stretched fibers to get the most energy return and restore the bounciness of the original Alphafly.

One of the most significant and noticeable changes about the Alphafly 3 is its reduced weight. My men鈥檚 size 8.5 was 12% lighter (compared to Nike鈥檚 men鈥檚 size 10, which is 15% lighter) than the Alphafly 2 and 4% lighter than the original Alphafly. Most weight savings came from the all-new Fast Shot outsole and the new Atomkit 3.0 upper with softer Flyknit yarns for added comfort.

How We Tested the Nike Alphafly 3

I received a pair of the Nike Alphafly 3 one week ago and have put 30 miles in them, including a 4-mile Turkey Trot race and one 12-mile marathon workout. I鈥檝e trained and raced in every previous Nike super shoe, including both of the previous Alphafly versions. To better compare both previous Alphafly (1 and 2) versions, I did A/B testing where I wore the Alphafly 3 on my right foot and, on separate runs, the Alphafly 1 and 2 on my left foot.

Nike Alphafly 3 Wear-Test Review

Let me start by saying that I liked the original Alphafly better than the second version. I didn鈥檛 think the Alphafly 2 was a bad shoe; it just didn鈥檛 have the bounciness the first Alphafly had, and it was slightly heavier. I found the Alphafly 2 did a great job during really long runs as my form started to stray and I needed some additional stability and rearfoot support, but as a sub-marathon shoe, it felt heavy and clunky. I鈥檇 turn to my original Alphafly or Vaporfly 3 for these distances.

I believe part of the bounciness issues around the Alphafly 2 was I didn鈥檛 feel like I was engaging the Air Zoom units鈥攎y weight was coming down midfoot and rolling onto the forefoot Air Zoom units. But in the Alphafly 3, when I locked in at a faster pace, I naturally landed under my first metatarsal and popped right back up. If you hold the sole at the same level as your eyes, you can see the outsole under the units protrudes a tiny more than the rest of the sole. I believe this helped me engage the units more.

The Alphafly 3 felt like a return to the original. I could tell I was loading and getting bounce back from each Air Zoom unit. Even my running partner commented that they sounded more like the original Alphaflys鈥攑roducing a loud slapping noise with each step.

When I slowed down and forcefully landed on my rear foot, I felt a soft landing and a moderately stable, smooth transition. The continuous bottom, plus the wider last and plate, make a noticeable difference. In both A/B testing, transitions and stability were clearly better in the Alphafly 3 than in the previous versions. It was also easy to tell there was more shoe under my arch on the foot wearing the Alphafly 3. In the first two Alphaflys, I felt a slight inward roll that caused irritation, and the Alphafly 3 felt stable and comfortable with no hot spots during my 12-mile test run

During my 4-mile Turkey Trot, they never felt too bulky or like too much shoe for such a short race. They felt smooth and perfectly capable of handling much faster than marathon pace, something I would have never said about the Alphafly 2.

While I didn鈥檛 get to test the outsole traction in wet conditions, I regularly run on a sandy beach path. Most of my shoes tend to feel slick in sandy spots, but the Alphafly 3 had surprisingly good footing.

I also felt a sizable improvement in overall comfort. It still takes a little effort to put the shoe on, but once laced in, the new Atomkit 3.0 upper felt much softer against the skin, almost to the point I could go sockless.

How do they compare with the previous Alphaflys? For me, the Alphafly 3 is without a doubt much better than the Alphafly 2. I鈥檇 put the 3 on par with the original Alphafly, but I think the 3 is certainly better for the masses. The Alphafly 3 is more comfortable and offers better stability with comparable energy return. Pinned up against the Vaporfly 3, the Alphafly 3 is a much better marathon shoe thanks to its improved stability and more comfortable fit

The Verdict on the Alphafly 3

I鈥檓 still attached to the original Alphafly, and will still be stingy, using them only for special races until there鈥檚 no life left in them. But there鈥檚 comfort in knowing that the Alphafly 3 brings the bounce back, and I don鈥檛 need to be as frugal with it. And when I鈥檓 going long and fast, I have a new favorite shoe that is both energetic and stable.

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