Look the part this Marathon season in fresh kicks from everyone’s fav fitness companion, New Balance.
With marathon season fast approaching, preparing for race day involves more than just logging miles—it’s about having the right gear to support your performance and prevent injuries, and also blow your competitors away with your overall aesthetic.
Let’s be honest – we’ve all had that moment when we’ve turned up to a gym class, touch rugby sideline, tennis lesson or start line looking like we’re in hand-me-downs. The whites are grey, the reflective tape’s been through the dryer and has started peeling off your top, your socks are mis-matched and the ‘fit is like a smorgasbord of brand logos. Take it from us: if you look the part, you’ll definitely run a PB cos you’ll just feel better about yourself.
Founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1906, New Balance has always been a purveyor of good looking kit, but their running shoes have recently taken a massive step up in terms of style and design. Especially with the downward trajectory of brands like Nike (whose CEO John Donahoe stepped down recently) we predict that New Balance is poised to be one of the brands preferred by Gen Z and Gen Alpha in coming years as those generations step out of the festivals and into the gym.
So if you’re like us and are preparing for (read: dreaming about) running any one of New Zealand’s brilliant spring and summer marathons, New Balance’s latest collection is a good place to start looking for that new ‘fit. The brand’s FuelCell range offers a selection of running shoes specifically designed for each phase of your training, ensuring you’re well-equipped from daily runs to race day. Here’s a breakdown of the top picks to help you conquer every step of your marathon journey:
SuperComp Elite v4 | Race Day Ready
When seconds matter, the FuelCell SC Elite v4 is your go-to race day shoe. Designed for peak performance, it features a lightweight construction and a full-length carbon plate in the midsole, providing high energy return. This makes it ideal for pushing your limits and moving at top speed when it counts the most.
FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 | The All-Rounder
Versatility is key during marathon training, and the FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 is built to handle it all – from interval sessions to long runs. With the cushioning of a daily trainer and a forked carbon plate in the midsole for added responsiveness, this shoe is perfect for both half- and full-marathon preparation, offering comfort and support every step of the way.
1080v14 – The Newest All-Rounder Running Shoe from New Balance
Available in New Zealand on October 10, 2024, the Fresh Foam x 1080v14 (RRP $300 NZD) is crafted to be your go-to running shoe, delivering ultimate performance and comfort. The perfect balance of everything an actual runner is looking for.
Although we don’t think the aesthetics of the 1080v14 stack up alongside the FuelCell SuperComp or Rebel v4, New Balance are adamant that the 1080v14 provides ultimate comfort, premium running performance and fits like a second skin. The shoe’s upper is made from a breezy, breathable knit that offers an incredibly airy and lightweight feel, developed to elevate your everyday runs.
Compared to the designs of some of the new Asics, adidas and Hoka shoes, these 1080v14s won’t win you a fashion prize, but they’re sure to get you up and off the couch and get the job done.
FuelCell Rebel v4 | Speedwork Specialist
Designed for those fast-paced workouts, the FuelCell Rebel v4 boasts a taller, wider sole for stability while remaining incredibly lightweight. Its responsiveness makes it perfect for adapting between steady long runs and speedwork or threshold training, making it a versatile addition to your training rotation.
The SuperComp Elite v4 (RRP $400 NZD), FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 (RRP $350 NZD), and FuelCell Rebel v4 (RRP $240 NZD) are available in various styles and colour ways at leading tech retailers nationwide and online at newbalance.co.nz. With the right footwear, you can run your way to marathon success, and look good doing it!