Running Gear

Lined shorts suit most runners and skip the need for underwear. Unlined shorts win if you layer, prefer your own briefs, or find liners confining.

Short running shorts exist for leg movement and ventilation. What the 3, 5 and 7 inch lengths each do, and how to pick the one for you.

Stability shoes if you overpronate, neutral shoes if you do not. What pronation is, how to tell which group you are in, and why most runners are neutral.

The Clifton is lighter and runs true to size. The Glycerin is the plushest shoe Brooks makes but runs small. Weight, drop and cushioning compared.

The Rincon is the lighter, faster shoe and the Clifton the cushioned daily trainer. Same 5mm drop, so the choice comes down to weight and mileage.

The Clifton is lighter and more versatile. The Bondi is Hoka’s softest ride for long easy miles. How cushion, weight and feel compare between them.

Most running shoes are broken in after 10 to 20 miles, or a week or two of wear. How to do it without blisters, and what makes some pairs take longer.

Moisture wicking synthetics or merino, never cotton, and shoes that fit. The full running kit from the ground up, and how to adjust it for weather.

Snug at heel and midfoot, a thumb’s width at the toe, no heel slip. The checks that predict a good fit, and when to try shoes on for the truest result.

Shorts let heat escape, tights trap warmth and cut wind. Where each one wins, when to wear which, and whether it is worth owning both.