The Best Running Shoes
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by Paola Montanaro
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It is not true that all shoes are the same. Especially during running, whether you are an amateur runner or not, footwear is essential. To choose the right one for you, it depends a lot on your foot support, body weight, the type of running or training you do, and where you do it. GQ has selected some of the latest innovations in running shoes. Starting with the new Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10 which offers a dream combination of soft and responsive cushioning thanks to the lightweight Nike Zoom Air unit and the new ultra-soft Lunarlon foam. The thermoregulation technology Pwrcool is instead integrated in the new Puma shoe: the footwear features the special ComfortTemp lining that regulates foot temperature helping it stay cool and dry during physical exercise. Also among the best running shoes is the Nimbus 17 from Asics, which received top recognition from the American magazine Runner’s World, winning the prestigious “Editor’s Choice” in the highly anticipated Summer Shoe Guide of June 2015, “as the most cushioned running shoe on the market.” Among its pluses are improved fit in the midfoot thanks to the jacquard mesh upper with a 3D skeleton, the full-length SpEVA 45 insole, and the new FluidRide 2.0 midsole that ensure maximum comfort and great elasticity. Dedicated to lightweight runners with neutral support, capable of running at high speeds is the shoe from New Balance with an Air mesh upper with TPU structural reinforcements and 360° reflective inserts. Also new is the AKKUA R’Evolution Running, a barefoot sneaker designed to protect and restore the movement of the bare foot. A highly technical and innovative product supported by scientific studies that comes to the market after two years of research at La Sapienza University in Rome. Akkua R’Evolution is a product that instead of starting from the shoe, starts from the sock. The external structure of the sneaker, or shell, is made of TPU, a material normally used for safety shoes, thus very difficult to pierce. The shell is designed to protect the physiological structure of the foot (the malleolus, the Achilles tendon, the foot holding bands and toes), but also to support the natural functionality of the foot: all segments connecting the rearfoot and forefoot are synergistic to the main anatomical-functional structures and elastically aid effective relationships between the various parts of the foot. The seamless sock is made of a high percentage of Tactel, an anti-abrasion, anti-blister, and thermoregulating material. The internal sole of the sneakers is antibacterial in copper to prevent fungal infections and bad odors. Under the heel, a 3mm thick shock absorber, Noene, helps cushion any impacts on the joints and back. The shock absorption capacity can reach up to 98% and remains virtually unchanged over time. The Under Armour Speedform Gemini is built specifically for athletes who need extra cushioning over long distances or during training to achieve new fitness goals without any extra weight. The woven upper eliminates friction points with the skin during running, with anatomical seams welded with Bemis tape and Heat Gear fabric, providing a comfortable fit and super breathability. The 5mm 4D Foam insole extends the entire length of the foot to improve comfort and stability. The dual-density sole with rigid inserts ensures long-lasting durability and precision, and has a design with anatomically placed flex points to support the foot’s roll in every phase and make the transition from heel to toe faster.