Spring Kicks: the wrap-up of the season’s 10 hottest shoes

With the changing of the seasons, comes an onset of innovative new running shoes. The weather’s getting warmer, the sun is out: it’s a perfect time to treat yourself and reinvest in your running. But what to buy? What’s out there? Fret not. Here’s a look at ten of our favourite new running sneakers and the inside skinny of why they’re awesome and what they might be good for. In the meantime, let us know what you’re loving on your feet and tell us if you try out any of these shoes!

GlideRide 2, ASICS: Part of the ENERGY SAVING SERIES, this low-density foam cushioned runner offers a widened mid-foot and smooth heel-strike to toe-off efficiency. A marathon runner’s best friend and a sturdy shock-absorber that will please both new and experienced runners. 

Zoom X, Invincible Run, Nike: Another season, a brand new in-demand lightweight, flyknit Nike running shoe. Touted as “most tested,” by Nike, these racers are soft, light and beautiful, more than a sneaker, practically a work of art. The kind of thing that, when you see another runner wearing them, the two of you stop for a moment and share a smile—it’s like driving a Ferrari and pulling up beside a driver in the exact same car.

Kinvara 12, Saucony: Featherlight and fast with a 4mm drop, this popular shoe gets a reboot with a new outsole and updated upper; a durable running shoe that improves year after year. Currently, our shoe of choice for Wednesday night speed work and a big shoe as hypothetical spring race goals suddenly become a real thing.

Forever Floatride Energy 3, Reebok: The third iteration of Reebok’s lightweight racer has a revised midsole and square-knit upper for increased durability, without greatly increasing its weight. The breathable mesh is also nice as the weather gets warmer and Reebok, year after year, becomes more immeshed in the running world. If everything wasn’t virtual, you’d see these in a 10K on some of the fastest runners in town.

1080v11, New Balance: A soft, plush shoe with a stretchy knit upper makes the 8mm drop on this popular sneaker feel like racing on a cloud. Cushioned yet quick, the 1080 is a dream on a long run and another win for Mariah Kelly’s sponsor: the 2020 iRun reader’s choice for Brand of the Year.

Mach 4, Hoka One One: As more runners turn to Hoka, the foam-forward French sneaker, the brand continues to unveil new models, like the Mach 4, softer and bouncier than earlier iterations of this popular line.  Light and responsive with plenty of the famous Hoka foam, this is the sneaker we’re wearing for the virtual Ottawa Marathon, in which we intend to run faster than Mark Sutcliffe.

Kiprun, Décathlon: Lightweight and anatomically-designed by our favourite sportswear company increasing its Canadian market share, this sneaker is durable, sturdy and lightweight, weighing in at 290g in size 9. If you haven’t shopped Décathlon, you’re missing out on our new favourite store: from running shoes to camping gear to backpacks.  

VIMANA, STRIKE MVMNT: With an anatomical toe drop and 4mm drop, this minimalist hybrid trail and running shoe is a Canadian-owned innovator’s dream. Fast, light and gorgeous, STRIKE MVMNT is a shoe brand from British Columbia to watch. (Hint: if you’re curious, sign up for our Race of the Month series. You just might score a pair!)    

Glycerin 19, Brooks: The staple of the fantastic Brooks line now comes with GuideRails, which offer support on demand and limit excess movement. With a plush midsole and neutral support, this is a cool update of a half of fame sneaker. PS: Brooks only gets better with their approach to sports bras, probably as ever woman reading this already knows.  

UltraBoost 21, ADIDAS: Springy and cushioned with almost a diving board-like foam release, the latest new UltraBoost from ADIDAS is light and offers great energy return, plus an updated torsion system, which is incredible, but here’s the other thing: it’s made with recycled materials. When I tried this sneaker I immediately had to go out and buy all new socks.