Product Awards 2020: Best Launch Shoes

Best Launch Shoe: Winner
INOV-8 Terraultra G 270 | £145

These shoes were so impressive. “Grippy and bouncy – my kind of trail shoe!” enthused Hannah. “I recommend these for any terrain. The fit was good and the outsole performs well, even running downhill on muddy and stony paths.”

“I have narrow feet but there was no rubbing,” said Tina, “just 360-degree comfort! The foam in the midsole performed well over various terrain, feeling soft and springy.” She was equally as impressed by the outsole, too. “Serious trail runners need brilliant grip, and the Graphene Grip is really strong.”

Best Launch Shoe: Winner
UNDER ARMOUR Hovr Machina | £140

Joint winners in the new-launch category were the distinctive Hovr Machina. “It’s all about the cushioning with these; they feel wonderful underfoot. And I love the techy side of them,” said Meg. Esther loved these too: “You almost forget you’re wearing them!”

Best Launch Shoe: Editor’s Choice
BROOKS Hyperion Tempo | £140

The look, fit and performance of these is a triple whammy. They’re made for marathon training or other high mileage work as they retain their propulsion and cushioning. Esther said, “These are my go-to shoes for weekend running. They feel firm, but never result in hot spots; the energy return is brilliant too – they just seem to get rid of tired legs.”