SportsShoes Blog

As you know I’m somewhat of a Kanadia fan – my new pair of 4th generation shoes are the 4th pair I’ve had.

Thankfully Adidas have not tinkered with the sole unit which saw a major overhaul when the shoes went from 2 to 3.

The outsole is superb featuring really useful lugs which provide great traction both up and down hill and also make the shoe comfortable on harder surfaces.

Looking at them you could be mistaken for thinking that the shoes would ride too high for true off road use but that’s not the case in practise. The foot feels planted to the ground and very stable despite the good levels of cushioning.

The 4th generation gets a reworking of the upper which is more cosmetic than anything else but I think works well and gives the shoe a classy and expensive look. Inside Adidas have also upgraded the inner sole which is now a little more contoured round the arch.

So, another fantastic shoe from the Kanadia stable which works superbly on almost all surfaces but once again the real treat for the buyer comes when you take them to the till. How Adidas can pack so many features into a shoe at this price when the competitor products are around 20 quid more is beyond me.

Go and try them I’m sure you won’t be dissappointed.

Just be careful with sizing – they still come up very small so you’ll probably need a full size bigger than your normal shoe.      

DAWLISH COASTERS - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

DAWLISH COASTERS

“We are very happy to welcome new or returning runners to our club nights as well as visitors from other clubs. We run from the Dawlish Leisure Centre at 6:30 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evening’s throughout the year with sessions lasting for approximately 1 hour. Our training schedule is worked out in advance with each session led by a club member. Take a look at the training schedule page on  www.dawlishcoasters.co.uk for more information.

We have a very active social side to the club and we encourage all members to participate in the various events held throughout the year. Details of these will be posted on the notice board in the Leisure Centre and will appear on the Social Events pages of the website.”

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See below for reviews:

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ron Hill Lady Aspiration Powerlight Tights

Ronhill lady Aspiration Powerlite Tights

Reviewed by Lorna Richards

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Nice soft feel material that gave good support, very comfortable with high back and handy pocket. The UVR a good feature

Worst Points:

Bit long for summer wear – having reflective strips would be beneficial for darker, cooler running

Other Comments:

Zipped bottoms made them easier to pull on

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike 7 inch Tempo Running Shorts

Nike 7 inch Tempo Shorts

Reviewed by Simon Bundy

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

Soft comfortable material – good fit

Worst Points:

Just a little bit too long – felt slightly restrictive

Other Points:

Really nice pair of shorts if could be just a little bit shorter

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike Dri-Fit Tech Running Tights

Nike Miler Running Vest

Reviewed by Les Elms

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Excellent fit, soft fabric, very comfortable for running and movement in general

Worst Points:

Couldn’t think of anything bad to say here

Other Comments:

Already one of my favourite running vests

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Poole AC - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Poole Ac

Poole AC activities include road running, cross country, track and field leagues and organising a number of races including The Beast, Round the Lakes 10K and the Wessex 100K relay. We have a thriving Juniors section, with members involved in track & field, indoor athletics competitions and fun runs. We have achieved success at all levels, and run our own club championships.

Why not come along and join in with our activities? Everyone from 8 upwards is welcome, irrespective of ability. All that is required is enthusiasm – we’ll provide qualified coaches, encouragement and a friendly atmosphere. For more information check out our website here: www.pooleac.co.uk/

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See below for reviews:

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Saucony AMP PRO2 Compression Sock

Saucony AMP PRO2 Compression Sock

Reviewed by Jane Neal

Star Rating (Out of 5): 4

Best Points:

The socks felt very supportive and comfortable without feeling tight whilst running. Breathable even on hot days.

Worst Points:

I’m used to running in short socks so it took a while to get use to the feel and idea of wearing long socks.

Other Comments:

I tested the medium size which was a good fit although they would fit a larger size foot I’m a Ladies size 6. The socks are unisex, the details on the pack say medium is for a Mens size 6-9 and Ladies 7-10. I haven’t had them long enough to test their recovery and healing benefits however they feel very supportive on tired and sore legs.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

ASICS Level 2 Running Shorts

Asics level 2 Shorts

Reviewed by David Neal

Star Rating (Out of 5): 1

Best Points:

Useful key pocket

Worst Points:

Way too long for running (even with my long skinny legs).  Material feels slimy with an odd feel on the front of your legs when you run.  Expensive.

Other Points:

I’ll only be wearing them in the gym

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Nike Dri-Fit Tech Running Tights

Nike Lady Dri-Fit Tech Running Tights

Reviewed by Rachel Johnson

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Great material and zips at the back of the ankle are really easy to undo

Worst Points:

Couldn’t find anything!

Other Comments:

These leggings were a very good fit, they look nice and feel really comfortable to run in. Would be fantastic if they did them in other colours as well, especially funky ones! I would certainly buy more. I really loved these leggings and I’ve had some very positive comments from other runners regarding the look and design of them.

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Fife AC - Reviews of Sportsshoes.com running kit

Fife AC

Fife AC was formed in the early 70′s from the amalgamation of several clubs in North East Fife who in turn joined forces with Fife Southern Harriers to form the current Fife AC.  Geographically, it is a widespread club taking in Central and North East Fife, with training groups in Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Cupar, and St Andrews.  Teams regularly take part in the major Scottish events and in recent times the men’s team have performed well in the British AAA’s 12 stage road relay championships finishing twice in the top 20.  The aim of the club is to promote all aspects of athletics – track and field, road, cross country, and hill running throughout the age range to both sexes and for all standards. For more info see fifeac.co.uk/

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See below for reviews:

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Ron Hill – Aspiration Lite Zip Top

Adidas Response Tight Shorts

Reviewed by David Burgess

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

They fit well, look good and give the right amount of support I need for my hamstrings. The zip pocket on the back of the shorts is quite handy for car keys.

Worst Points:

None.

Other Comments:

These are quality shorts. As good as any of the other brands on the market. I intend to buy a few extra pairs.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Adidas Lady Running Vest

Adidas lady Vest

Reviewed by Sarah Legge

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

Lovely looking top which does a good job of keeping you cool. Not too revealing unlike some of the more traditional style of vests. Well-made and good attention to detail.

Worst Points:

Nothing bad to say about this vest.

Other Points:

The usual high quality I have come to expect from the Adidas brand.

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Item Tested and reviewed:

Gore Runwear Air Zipped T-Shirt

Gore Runwear Air Zip T-Shirt

Reviewed by Brian Cruickshank

Star Rating (Out of 5): 5

Best Points:

A superb wicking top with mesh inserts and the added bonus of a zip for when the weather gets really hot. The shirt fits really well and the material feels good against the skin. The reflective trim should be useful once the darker nights draw in. The red, white and black colour scheme looks classy.

Worst Points:

No bad points to note.

Other Comments:

I am very impressed with this technical t-shirt. In fact it’s such a good looking shirt it feels a shame just to use it for training! A quality piece of clothing well worth paying a little extra for.

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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See below for reviews:

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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.

I have a plan brewing for 2012.

In 2007 I did the Ultratrail Tour Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). This was my favourite race of all time – 100 miles, 30,000 feet of climb in 34 hours.

Well, the organisers of the UTMB have now dreamt up a new challenge – it’s like the UTMB but with teeth!

The PTL (Petite Trot a Leon). Now I haven’t studied French since I was about 12 years old but I know what Petite means and there’s nothing small about this race.

The PTL is 300km with 27000 meters of climb – that’s 180 miles with 90,000 feet of climb for us Brits.

Now there’s a challenge……!

I have a few ideas but if anyone out there would like to suggest a challenge I’m all ears……

Wow I’m excited – I know it doesn’t take much….

But take a look at the new Adidas Kanadia 4 trail shoes – they look awesome.

I’m on my 3rd pair of Kanadias and think they’re the best shoes I’ve ever owned – I just hope the 4th generation work as well as the TR3s.

My yellow TR3s have just completed a Bob Graham Round and matched to a pair of Hilly Mono Skin trail socks they were quite simply the best things I could have wished for on my feet. Not a blister or a rub to be seen – in fact with all the water that was around at the weekend I think my feet are in better shape now than they were when I started!!

Can’t wait to try out the Kanadia 4s – better get down to see Russ before they sell out of my size.

Bob Graham Round – 15^th / 16^th July
2011

Andy Nicoll and Dave Stephenson – Bingley Harriers

Following a traditional ultra runner’s meal of fish and
chips, myself and Dave Stephenson tapped the door of the Moot Hall at 7pm on
Friday 15^th July 2011 and set off in a clockwise direction to
attempt the Bob Graham Round.

Despite the weather forecasts all being bad and the MWIS
suggesting that the chance of cloud free summits was just 10%, the weather was
kind – cool with high cloud and little wind, perfect for a BG.

Leg 1 went without a hitch and good time up Skiddaw, Calva
and Blencathra put us ahead of schedule at Threlkeld. Not needing head-torches
to descend Halls Fell was a bonus.

Following a quick changeover we headed up Clough Head but as
we neared the summit the weather turned. Low cloud, wind and driving rain would
now be with us for the next 19 hours!

Leg 2 was very tough and slow in the cloud and with viz down
to around 20 meters, running on bearings was the only option. A lengthy stop at
the Helvellyn shelter to add layers and food cost us time but was much needed
and the climb up Fairfield via Cofa Pike helped to keep us warm. We veered
right off Seat Sandal by mistake but our line down Raise Beck appeared to be
quicker than another team who we saw battling down through the bracken.

A great navigator on leg 3 helped us pull back time but
again the weather made the going very heavy. Although we had a rope on Broad
Stand the fact that neither of us were climbers and there was a waterfall
coming over the slippery crag made our ascent to Scafell summit very slow. We
then had to descend to Wasdale via the walkers’ path as Lingmell Gill was too
broad and too fast to cross.

At this point I thought our chance of a sub 24 had gone but
we both still felt physically strong so there was no thought of quitting.
Instead we gritted teeth and decided to pull out all the stops and go for it. A
fantastic bit of leading on leg 4 from a virtually unknown pacer delivered us
to Honister with 3.5 hours to spare. Only at this point did I truly believe it
was back on.

Remembering the note on the BG map ‘if time is tight, don’t
stop’ I grabbed some grub and set off up Dale Head without breaking stride.

The weather on leg 5 eased a little allowing us to make good
time and a great line off Robinson to the reservoir left just the road section
to complete. An army of supporters at Newlands raised the spirits and as the
sun started to shine after 20 hours of hiding I jogged up Keswick main street
to hit the Moot Hall door at 6.09pm 23 hours and 9 minutes after we’d left it.
(Dave finished 14 minutes later at 6.23pm).

Andy Nicoll

Bingley Harriers