SportsShoes Blog

Swanley and District AC - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Swanley and District AC

They are an established running club with a reputation for being both friendly and competitive. Their members are of all ages and ability. Some of us run to keep fit, some to train for races of all distances, both local and further afield or some just for the fun of it. If you are new to running or a hardened veteran there will always be someone to run with. “S and D” are always happy to see new faces so come along and join us! The clubhouse is located in the picturesque Swanley Park, just off New Barn Road. This allows us to train on some road & trail runs in the surrounding countryside. For more information see: http://www.swanleyanddistrictac.org/

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See below for reviews:

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ron Hill – Aspiration Lite Zip Top

Ronhill Aspiration Zip Top

Reviewed by Caroline Burley

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Comfortable to wear & moves over the skin well

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

A spring or autumn layer or with another layer underneath ideal for winter. Finally and a girlie thing but I liked the colour!

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ron Hill – Womens Vizon Powerlite Tight

Ronhill Lady Vizion Powerlite Tights

Reviewed by Caroline Burley

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Comfortable & waistband not too tight.

Worst Points:

Zips a bit irritating on outside of legs.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike Sphere T-Shirt

Nike Sphere T-Shirt

Reviewed by Andy Dunmall

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Nice wide fitting, no blisters, very stable

Worst Points:

You only sent me one pair!

Other Comments:

Nice looking shoe, would be very confident in doing a marathon in them after a few weeks running in them.

Horsham Joggers - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

horsham joggers

Horsham Joggers

Horsham Joggers was set up in 1984 and continues to promote the fun in running. A social running club of around 250 members, we cater for runners of all levels of fitness and ability, from the first time jogger to the sub 3 hour Marathon athlete. The concentration on fun continues with a very active social side to the club with several events taking place throughout the year, including Ten Pin Bowling, Brewery trips, Go-Karting and more.

The running calendar includes varied organised events at all levels – through our membership of the Sussex Grand Prix, The West Sussex Fun Run League and Horsham 10K road race. These are supplemented by locally organised club events such as pub runs, time trials, handicap races, night running, London Marathon training runs and the infamous Xmas mud run. So if you’re into running, whether as a novice or a veteran, come and join us, you won’t be disappointed.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Adidas Lady Response Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Adidas reponse lady t-shirt

Reviewed by Sophie

Star Rating (Out of 5): 3.5

Best Points:

Cool, breathable fabric.

Worst Points:

Bit too long.

Other Comments:

I liked the colour of the T-shirt, a nice bright blue and it kept me cool even on a 7-mile run on a very warm day. It was a bit too long though and the sizing is very generous, I think a size 8 would have been fine as the 10 is quite roomy.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike Dri-Fit T-Shirt

Nike Dri-Fit T-Shirt

Reviewed by Geoff

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Well made from several panels, with all seams finished so as not to cause chaffing.  A generous size – I tested the large and it was a little bigger than my other similar large t-shirts.  It had very good wicking properties and dried quickly .

Worst Points:

The labels giving size and washing instructions are very big.  Although not a particular problem, some runners may wish to remove the labels to avoid the potential for rubbing.

Other Comments:

The orange colour certainly gave ‘high visibility’.  A colleague on a bicycle saw me from a quarter of a mile away!

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Item Tested and reviewed:

ASICS GT-2160 Running Shoes

ASICS GT-2160

Reviewed by Steve

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Nice wide fitting, no blisters, very stable

Worst Points:

You only sent me one pair!

Other Comments:

Nice looking shoe, would be very confident in doing a marathon in them after a few weeks running in them.

Folkestone Running Club - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Catherine in her Nike Top

Faye in her Nike Top

Folkestone Running Club is a small friendly club for runners aged from 16 years upwards and ability ranging from elite to beginners in Folkestone and surrounding areas in Kent. They have been in existence for over 40 years.

They exist primarily to encourage running at any standard, either with a view to competing in races from 5k to marathon, or simply for exercise and fun. Folkstone regularly compete in local races and team based events and also take part in competitions on road, cross country and track at County, Area and National level.

They have over 80 members of whom nearly half are women. Read more about  them here: www.folkestonerunningclub.co.uk

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Adidas Response DS Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Adidas Response T-Shirt

Reviewed by Dave

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Good comfortable t-shirt with lightweight feel, breathable fabric wicked away moisture very well, so still feeling good at end of run

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

Overall good quality top that I would recommend.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike lady Miler Short Sleeve t-shirt

Nike Lady Miler T-Shirt

Reviewed by Faye

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

The colour & fit.

Worst Points:

Slightly higher neck than I normally wear but nice long length in the body. I didn’t think the material was the most breathable in very hot weather.

Other Comments:

Loved the colour!

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Reviewed by Catherine

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

The material and style and comfort whilst running.

Worst Points:

For a small shirt it is on the baggy side would prefer it more fitted

Other Comments:

Kept me nice and cool whilst running

Orpington Road Runners  Club - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Orpington Road Runners

Running through Orpington’s streets and the Kent countryside since 1985! We are simply the friendliest of running clubs, supporting the noble sport of running in and around our little pocket of Kent. Since 1998, we have also organized a very successful series of 10k (adult) and 2k (school) races.

We have regular weekly attendances of close to 100 Yellow Shirts and run every Tuesday, 8pm from outside The Buff P.H., Crescent Way – swarms of yellow shirts departing from the site are a common site for those in the area! Our main aims remain simple;  to provide safe, interesting and challenging running, together with advice  – and most importantly companionship – whenever we meet.

We have strong links with neighbouring clubs and welcome friendly runners of all abilities.  Please enjoy checking out our website and we look forward to running with you! www.orprunners.com

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Puma Ladies Sports Bra

Puma Lady Sports Bra Top

Reviewed by Tonia

Star Rating (Out of 5): 3

Best Points:

Soft on skin, does not chafe, keeps its shape after washing

Worst Points:

Not enough support or structure and does not have adjustable straps, which I prefer

Other Comments:

I feel that this bra would be comfortable enough for walking and light exercise, but for me, not robust enough for running

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ronhill Running Shorts

Ronhill Running Shorts

Reviewed by Nigel

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Fabric, fit, reflective strips

Worst Points:

Rather high waistband.

Other Comments:

Not too clingy, for lycra.

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Reviewed by Allan

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Very comfortable and not at all restrictive while running.

Cool and fresh in warm running conditions.

They don’t shrink and the colours didn’t run in the washing machine.

Worst Points:

Rear pocket is small and the zip is fixed in the middle rather than the top of the pocket. This means that keys etc, are more likely to fall out as you open the pocket.

Waist band is high and tighter than it needs to be compared to the rest of the shorts especially as there is a tie for holding them up.

Other Comments:

The shorts are quite long in the leg so not suitable for those concerned with their tan.

I would recommend them to a friend.

Dulwich Runner’s Club – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

We are a friendly road and XC running club based in Dulwich, south east London. We have approximately 250 members of all abilities who compete in road, XC, multi-terrain, fell and track races. New runners are always welcome, however fast or slow. Sadly we don’t have the resources to cater for younger runners (under 16). We’re based at the Edward Alleyn Club in Burbage Road and you’ll always find us there on Wednesday evenings. Wednesday at 7:00pm is our main training night but we hold track sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays (in summer). Find out more about us here: http://www.dulwichrunners.org.uk/

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Item Tested and reviewed:

New Balance Short Sleeve Men’s Running T-Shirt

New Balance T-Shirt

Reviewed by Jay

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

This top provides a very easy going running experience!  It is generously cut and provides a loose fitting top: perfect to let the early summer breeze in.  The material is 100% polyester with a medium thickness and mesh like construction. It feels comfortable and the material is stretchable. The stitching appears well constructed and I didn’t feel any friction points.  The style is very minimalist.  I tried on the black version which has a discreet New Balance logo on the neck and chest of the top.

Worst Points:

The material and mesh construction could be a bit too thick for summer running.  The top wouldn’t suit those who like their running tops to have a more fitted feel.  If you are looking for extras such as pockets, panelling, or dashes of colour or reflective material, then this is not the top for you!

Other Comments:

Overall an excellent minimalist loose fitting men’s running top for individuals who prefer a simple and relaxed style.

Reviewed by Peter

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Soft material, did not chafe, good fit and wicked well on a hot run

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

Seems to have washed well with no shrinkage or change in performance.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ronhill short sleeve t-shirt

Ronhill Lady T-Shirt

Reviewed by Kim

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Very easy and comfortable to wear, good fit, very lightweight keeps you dry, no chaffing,  nice colours too

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

I know all socks feel nice when new on, but these really do feel great.

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Marlborough Running Club – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Marlborough Running Club was founded in 1988 and is based in the picturesque town of Marlborough, Wiltshire, set in the heart of the beautiful North Wessex Downs. Although in the main we are a club of longer distance runners (from 5k to 100k+), our interests cover road and trail running, triathlons, orienteering, fell running and cross-country withy training taking place three times a week. Marlborough Running Club members include athletes who have excelled at the very highest levels at distances of 5000m, 80 miles and even 3,200 miles! Currently formed of 90 members, the feature which binds us together is our enjoyment of running the downland and forest trails that abound in this part of England.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

1000 Mile compression socks

1000 Mile Compression socks

Reviewed by Doug

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Good fit and good quality. Effects of compression are very clear while running.

Worst Points:

As it was! the first time for me to wear compression socks, while I could feel a difference while running I have not recognised any benefits compared to using normal socks yet. I guess this is a very personal judgement

Other Comments:

I am not used to wearing compression socks so wearing them the first time was a little strange. But the socks are high quality and fit very well. The size L seems ! to fit me well (I have shoe size 10). I have not found any advantages yet of wearing compression socks. I found wearing them strange, did not recognize immediate benefits and I am not sure yet of I will bin my old socks. The 1000 mile brand seems good, nice packaged and the fit of the socks is very good. I might consider using normal socks of the same brand.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

1000 Mile New Ultimate Tactel Socks

1000 Mile Ultimate Tactel Sock

Reviewed by Rene

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4.5

Best Points:

The feel very comfortable on, both the inner and outer sock fit snuggly to my feet with no signs of seams rubbing of material bunching up. They do feel like a single skin sock. As I am a size 11.5UK I wore the XL socks 12-14UK, they did not feel too big at all and the extra sock gave my toes a lot more space and did not pull tight on my toes when running. Had i worn the Large socks 9-11.5 UK the socks may have been stretched a little too much.  I normally wear compedes on the balls of my feet for runs over 5 miles, I did not need to with these socks, runs up to 12 miles were blister free. They did wick the sweat away from my feet very well. The socks wash well and have retained their shape and softness so far over a couple of washes though they are now not quite as blinding white as they were when first worn.

Worst Points:

Nothing really bad to say about the socks, personally I would prefer slightly shorter socks especially for wearing under tights on winter runs however some might like the extra layer half way up their calf.

Other Comments:

I know all socks feel nice when new on, but these really do feel great.

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Reviewed by Hen

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Soft and comfortable, yet firm fitting. Double layer prevents blisters.  They wick sweat away from foot. Padded toe and heel are an improved detail of sock. Normally my big toes go straight through socks.  These have survived at least 2 x 18 mile steady road runs  (better than the original version where my toes went straight through after 1 run)

Worst Points:

I think I would still need additional padding in toe as given a couple more long runs and I think they would penetrate end.

Other Comments:

I thought I was receiving compression socks so was disappointed that they were regular 1000 mile socks but they are good quality and would probably purchase again.

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Croydon Harriers Athletic Running Club – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Croydon Harriers Athletic Club

Croydon Harriers athletics club was founded in 1920 and has over 150 members of all ages and abilities, competing in all disciplines including track & field, cross-country and road running competitions. We have athletes ranging from Great Britain internationals (such as Martyn Rooney and James Dasaolu) to those training for general fitness. New members are always more than welcome. Visit www.croydonharriers.com for more details.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Under Armour HeatGear Long Sleeved Running top

Brooks Lady Nightlife Jacket

Reviewed by Karina Maurice

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

It’s very efficient as it is made from a lightweight material, yet it is a good insulator.

The jacket’s fluorescent colour along with the reflective logo is very sensible, making it safe when training or competing in the dark.

Its thin material also makes it easy to store in bags and to carry around, as it is easily folded, and won’t get in the way like other big and bulky garments.

Worst Points:

Maybe some other choices of fluorescent colours would be nice, but overall I think it is quite a nice shade of yellow.

Other Comments:

The jacket is also designed in a stylish manner, which means it can also be worn away from the athletics arena.

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Reviewed by Holly Haile

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

This multi-purpose jacket acts an excellent an extra layer, but is also lightweight and doesn’t restrict my stride-length on long and difficult training runs.

The illuminous yellow is extremely helpful during winter training.

The jacket’s waterproof material is also beneficial as it keeps you reasonably dry from showers, and also keeps the horrid winter wind away!

The additional stretch material underneath the arms allowed me to maintain my arm movement during sessions, unlike other jackets.

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

I will definitely be wearing this to training and competitions as I have found no faults at all.

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Reviewed by Charlotte Cavanagh

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

The high-visibility element of this jacket ensures an athlete’s safety on long training runs during the winter, but style isn’t compromised.

It’s a comfortable fit, with a padded collar and adjustable hems so it can be tailored just for you.

The media pocket is especially efficient, meaning your MP3 player won’t be jingling around during training.

The fabric is easy to maintain and it is very easy to wipe off mud – so you can go tearing through puddles during cross-country or trail runs without worrying!

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

Overall I would say this would be a great purchase as it is packed with all features and specifications needed in an all year round jacket. The only thing it doesn’t do is the running!

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Abergele Harriers Running Club – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Abergele Harriers Running Club

Abergele Harriers was founded in 1976 and now has about 60 members (around 30 men and 30 women). Based at Abergele Leisure Centre, we have both men’s and ladies teams in the North Wales Cross Country League and in the Borders Road Running League, as well as members who run fell races and track races. We have runners of all abilities from Welsh Internationals to those who simply run for fitness, but everyone has one thing in common in the club, a love of running and a sense of fun. For further details go to www.Abergeleharriers.co.uk

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed by Sean

Under Armour HeatGear Long Sleeved Running top

Under Armour Heat Gear Top

Star Rating (Out of 5):  3 (but would have got a 4.5 if it wasn’t for the “riding up issue”).

Best Points:

1)      Temperature control excellent, i.e. warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather.

2)      Very comfortable once you insure the arms are not twisted around.

Worst Points:

1)      You need to be careful putting it on to make sure that the arms don’t twist around and catch you in the arm-pits.

2)      It kept riding up the body (a minor irritation in the early parts of a long run but extremely annoying in the later stages).

Other Comments:

Not as comfortable a fit as the “ColdGear” version which I would give a 4.5 star rating as it never rides up but can get a little sweaty at the crew neck.

I tested the HeatGear one on a 40 mile long run on a February day. The weather changed quite a lot during the five and a half hour run (quite cold in the shade but very warm when the sun came out). The running top was ideal in these circumstances and was fine under a Under Armour running vest for the duration of the run.

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Reviewed by Keith

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Very light and comfortable to wear in ‘sweaty’ conditions. Allows air flow around body (mine was on the large side for my size)

Worst Points:

Arms were too long – I found myself constantly pulling them up above the elbow.

Other Comments:

A wantable item and useful addition to running kit – very comfortable

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Reviewed By Peter

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Very comfortable to wear. It fits well and looks good. I wore this top in Wrexham half and it felt very snug with no chaffing and it really wicks away the sweat.

Worst Points:

Cannot say I found any. I was very happy with the top.

Other Comments:

This top fitted really well it was not tight on the arms and felt comfortable against the skin. I found this sports top very breathable and excellent at wicking away the sweat. A good overall fit comfortable and easy to wear. Washes well ready for the next run.

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Meirionnydd Running Club – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Meirionnydd Running Club

Meirionnydd Running Club was established in 2006 in Dolgellau, in the South of Snowdonia National Park. We are dedicated to organising races throughout Meirionnydd, on the road, fell and trail. From Junior Races and Fun Runs to a tarmac 5 miler, a 10 mile trail race and mud in the mountains – we have something to suit everyone from total beginners upwards! Meirionnydd Running Club offer a range of social events, training nights and trips away to far flung places. From Tywyn to Tallinn, Penmaenpool, to Prague – the possibilities are endless!

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See below for reviews:

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed by Sue Nicholl

Nike Lady Dri-Fit Tech running tights

Nike Dri-Fit Running Tights

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points: very comfortable, light weight and keeps you dry

Worst Points: None

Other Comments: The reflective strip is very noticeable on dark nights. They did not rub anywhere even on a long run. Great for cold wet days. Would definitely buy them again.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed by Katie Wood

Lite Sports Reflective Yellow Running Jacket

Lite Sports Running Jacket

Star Rating (Out of 5): 3

Best Points: Not too heavy, just right for a cool damp evening run. Useful pocket at the back. There is a hood hidden in the collar which could be useful during fell running.

Worst Points: The zip opened from the bottom on a few occasions.

Other Comments: Very affordable jacket and it does what it says on the packet. If you need something just to slip on over your running vest on a dark wet evening this could be the one.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed By Peter Nicholl

Ronhill Advance Lite Half Zip Long Sleeve Top

Ronhill Advance Zipped Top

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points: Very comfortable and light weight. Used several times for fell running. Keeps you warm and dry.

Worst Points: None.

Other Comments: ‘It’s the best long sleeve running top I have ever worn’

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Griffithstown Harriers – Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Griffithstown Running Club

Griffithstown Harriers was set up in September 1983 and is recognised as a well-established running club in South Wales.  We are based at Glan-yr-Afon Leisure Ltd, on Edlogan Way, Cwmbran, Torfaen. We are within easy reach of Newport & Pontypool. We are a friendly social club, welcoming runners of all abilities who wish to participate in road running, multi terrain, fell running and cross country events. The club participates in the Gwent League and the Gwent Leisure Centre Leagues.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed by Christine

Saucony Running Tights

Saucony Lady Running Tights

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points: Snug fitting, warm but lightweight

Worst Points: Not high enough at the back

Other Comments: These tights stayed snug all through the run, no slipping down, or bunching behind the knees. Could be cut a little higher at the back – they ‘dipped’ down which is a little uncomfortable when you first put them on. Washed well, and no shrinkage.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Reviewed by Barrie

Asics Long Sleeved Top

Asics Long Sleeve Zip Top

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points: Long enough to fully cover back when cycling

Worst Points: None.

Other Comments: Very comfortable to run in.

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Reviewed By Dimitri

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4.5

Best Points: Good material quality and light weight

Worst Points: A little on the small size for a medium

Other Comments: Wicks away sweat well

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