runstyle

42 runstyle Fall 2024 runstylemag.com brand's Endorphin Pro and Elite continuing to be in the top five to 10 of all shoes at major marathons. Fitzpatrick said, "Runners who run races and marathons from the super-fast trying to qualify for the Olympic Trials to those trying to get a Boston qualifier to those looking to finish are choosing Endorphin in a major way. We are seeing more mid to back packers pick Endorphin for race day." Fitzpatrick said the Endorphin particularly appeals to runners looking to "minimize distraction and maximize performance" as they prepare for race day. For others, models such as Guide and Hurricane squarely address the "daily grind" of their daily run. Fitzpatrick said, "Comfort means cushioning and protection to feel centered and balanced on the platform. And comfort also means the aesthetic and color. As run shoes get worn more and more for everyday wear it is critical to use trend right materials and colors as well as delivering a silhouette that works with multiple outfits." Zoé Gerdil, On's footwear product manager, still sees robust demand continuing for max cushioning models. "Max cushioning is a trend that has an appeal with a much larger spectrum of runners, from beginner runners to long distance athletes, as it is intrinsically linked to comfort — something everyone is looking for," said Gerdil. "With foams becoming lighter and more durable the trend will most likely continue to grow in popularity, versatility and become a key part of our comfort-oriented category." Gerdil adds, "Certainly terrace culture (recently also motorsport) and lower profile midsoles have had a comeback in the lifestyle and fashion arena. Whilst this may inspire new, re-imagined footwear concepts, we don't see the demand for max cushioning and comfort going away in the world of performance running any time soon as it enables many runners to run longer and with less pain." Brooks sees the max cushion category continuing to grow with planned investments set to continue for its max models, namely the Glycerin Max and Ghost Max 2. Bryan Bhark, Brooks' manager of innovation development, said, "Brooks spent years researching, developing, and establishing our POV on max cushioning." However, Bhark added that many runners still look for Brooks' traditional profiles, like the Ghost and Adrenaline, as well as for alternative experiences such as its range of Speed shoes in the Hyperion line, including the carbon-plated Hyperion Elite. "Brooks is focused on providing distinct experiences for any type of runner, whether they are following current trends or have specific preferences, such as a model that moves for them or moves with them," said Bhark. "We also see future opportunities to leverage modern materials and processes coupled with our biomechanical insights from previous product lines to deliver something truly remarkable in the future…stay tuned. We feel runners are looking for choice, comfort, and aesthetics when it comes to their shoes and so we want to meet them where they are, and furthermore, anticipate their future needs." Skechers' VP of product development & merchandising, Greg Smith, believes runners are still looking for cushioning and responsiveness, as well as comfort that performs. He adds the new materials are creating a wide array of options for runners. "I think foams have advanced so much in the past five years that there's something for every type of runner," said Smith. "You can have a max cushioned style that's still lightweight. It really comes down to runner needs and preferences and how you can provide her or him with that benefit." "Plates are still going to play a role," adds Smith, "but as materials continue to advance, I can see solutions beyond just carbon fiber." n FOOTWEAR: TALKING TRENDS Puma MagMax NITRO Featuring Puma's Nitrofoam technology, the MagMax has a 46mm heel stack height for maximum cushioning, comfort and bounce. PUMAGrip durable rubber sole offers multi-surface traction. MSRP $180. Altra FWD VIA Marking the third iteration of the original VIA Olympus with zero drop, the max- cushioned FWD VIA features a new lightweight and responsive nitrogen-infused midsole foam, a rocker shape with a 4 mm drop, and the brand's roomiest toe box for an efficient and smooth stride. MSRP $160. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 Designed for competitive racing on the roads, the Endorphin Elite 2 features Saucony's most responsive foam ever for energy return and cushioning. A full- length slotted carbon fiber plate provides a smooth underfoot transition with a propulsive feel. MSRP $275. Skechers GOrun Razor 5 A lightweight, durable, and neutral running shoe, the GOrun Razor 5 delivers a fast and responsive feel thanks to Skechers Hyper Burst Pro TPU cushioning, Hyper Arc technology promoting energy efficiency with each stride, and a carbon-infused forefoot plate for next-level energy return. MSRP $130.

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