Celebrating his 20thth anniversary, parkrun continues to be a weekly event that is more popular than ever
Here we look at some of the best shoes for those 5km a week for everyone from beginners to course record challengers.
These reviews are independent and unbiased views based on running actual miles in these shoes. This section contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission when you follow these links.
Brooks – Ghost 16 – £135.00
The latest version of the brand’s most popular model has added their range-topping DNA Loft v3 foam. This nitro-infused foam was previously used on the brand’s premium model, the Glycerin, so now being available at this price point sees a real boost for the shoe.
Nitrogen foam offers a faster and more durable ride and elevates this model perfectly without detracting from the shoe’s established look and feel.
Brooks Ghost parkrun edition
For a perfect bond with the more durable foam, the outsole uses a new recycled silica-infused rubber for longer life and great traction. As always with the Ghost, the upper is a high-quality engineered mesh that provides a fuss-free fit for getting in and going.
READ MORE. Brooks celebrates 20 years of parrun
The Ghost is also available (for a limited time) in a colorful anniversary version of this parkrun, so be quick!
New Balance – Fresh Foam X 860v14 – £140.00
For those who require a little support, the 860v13 was one of the most popular and effective models in pronation control. This 14:00th edition takes a new approach with a “stability plane” for control with a thin plate running the width and length of the shoe. The plate is lined with Fresh Foam X, with a firmer layer underneath and a softer layer of the brand’s signature midsole foam on top.
The plane is angled to create a slightly larger area of firmer material on the medial side of the foot and therefore gently control any roll. The result is a supportive shoe for smooth riding with a great cushioning feel.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14
The engineered mesh upper has a bit of stretch to it so it can comfortably accommodate most foot shapes and sizes. It’s a good choice for everyday training for those looking for a light and stable shoe that does it all.
Get the New Balance 860v14 here
INOV-8 – Trailfly Speed – £140.00
For those whose local runs are a little more off the beaten path, the Trailfly Speed features the INOV-8 with the brand’s POWERFLOW PRO midsole for a cushioned and “flying” ride. Combined with the BOOMERANG footbed, the shoe feels high energy with a high level of “energy return”.
The 4mm studs feature Graphene for extra strength and are perfect for grass, gravel and gardens. The Trailfly is built on the latest anatomical shape, which when combined with a 4mm drop offers a more natural foot strike and allows the foot to spread out and adapt to the uneven nature of the trails.
INOV8 Trailfly speed
The shoe feels fast but can handle trail conditions, making it a good choice for a variety of surfaces and multi-use terrain often associated with parking.
Get the Inov08 Trailfly Speed here
Saucony – Endorphin Speed 4 – £180.00
The fourth generation version of the popular Endorphin Speed retains the key features that make it one of the most versatile racers/trainers on the market and is perfect for faster runners.
Lightweight and ultra-responsive PWRRUN PB midsole foam runs the entire length of the shoe and is sandwiched by a winged nylon plate that provides the shoe with a high propulsion feel. The plate is a winged design and it is this feature that adds lateral stability to the shoe and allows for more regular use than just race day.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
The slightly wider overall “footprint” also adds to a more stable ride and helps make the most of the plate off the edge with an energetic feel. There’s more rubber on the outsole than the pure racing model, so durability is better, and the lightweight, engineered mesh fit neatly hugs the foot for a ‘barely’ fit sensation.
For going fast and for more regular mid-week speed sessions and tempo runs, the Speed 4 is a great all-round speed option.
Saucony – Guide 17 – £135.00
Another popular support type shoe, this time from Saucony, sees a major makeover in this ’17.th publication. Gone is the traditional medial support in favor of a midsole that, thanks to its shape and construction, helps control pronation.
The shoe’s wider base, flared heel counter, and straighter midsole length help keep pronation under control. The deep pile of cushioning also has taller sidewalls that wrap around the heel for a stable yet natural ride.
Saucony Guide 17:00
There is plenty of cushioning from the PWRRUN midsole and the soft PWRRUN+ outsole makes the bottom feel very soft and welcoming. The engineered mesh upper wraps neatly around the foot and is well cushioned in the tongue, ankle collar and Achilles. The design allows for ample breathability and is typical of a good quality upper from the brand.
The new Guide 17 offers excellent all-round support and cushioning and does so in a package that disappears around the foot, leaving you to focus on running.
SALE – Lead 7 – £130.00
Since many runners require little support or control, this model offers just that in a lightweight package that welcomes new runners.
Mostly unchanged from the Arahi 6, the Arahi 7 retains the J-Frame support and CM-EVA cushioning. The J-Frame is the stronger part of the midsole that sits on the rear edge of the shoe in a J-shaped structure. A combination of softer core inside the frame provides support.
It is a unique method of providing control and works effectively for those who require a milder level of control. The lightweight EVA also helps keep the overall weight of the shoe down. Of course, the trademark meta-rocker is present, and it gives a relatively smooth riding sensation throughout the shoe.
Leading 7:
A new zoned engineered flat knit upper with a plush tongue and ankle collar is a revision this season and only serves to enhance the overall look, so fans of this shoe will be thankful that the model hasn’t strayed too far from its formula.
It’s a lightweight, supportive shoe with a low heel, perfect for those who want a shoe that offers control but is light enough to accelerate.
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