Best running gear for back-to-school 2023

The Saucony Triumph 20 delivers the cushioning that neutral runners need when logging longer runs. Saucony starts with its PWRRUN+ foam midsole that blends low weight with a soft, cushioned ride. To provide the durability serious runners demand, Saucony specs a long-lasting, high-traction rubber outsole. A knit upper hugs the runner’s foot and provides a locked-in feel, while the 10 mm offset (37 mm heel/27 mm forefoot) will appeal to runners with a more traditional heel-striking gait.

Featuring a limited-edition esthetic designed by Salomon ultra-athlete Martina Valmassoi, the Sense Ride 5 delivers the balanced cushioning and responsive ride required for shorter, faster trail running, as well as longer ultra events. The shoes feature Salomon’s Energy Save midsole, which does an admirable job of providing plush cushioning without compromising responsiveness. On the bottom, Salomon employs their tried-and-true All Terrain Contagrip outsole, ensuring consistent and predictable grip in a variety of terrain. As with most serious trail running shoes, the Sense Ride 5 Martina LTD shoes have a thin insert that offers push-through protection from rocks and roots. A foot-hugging upper provides a secure fit and showcases Salomon’s easy-to-use Quicklace closure.

The most eye-catching feature of the new Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 shoe has to be the upper. Consisting of a knit bootie, the shoe’s upper provides the fit and feel of a snug sock. The result is exceptional comfort, even during the longest runs. For the midsole, New Balance has spec’d its Fresh Foam X material, which provides responsive cushioning and support without excess weight. The use of a blown rubber outsole ensures minimal weight while still retaining a reasonable level of durability. This versatile, top-of-the-line running shoe will appeal to neutral runners who don’t want to compromise performance for comfort.

The Clifton 9 builds on the performance of previous versions and now delivers less weight, improved cushioning, and a 3 mm increase in stack height. Hoka has achieved these wins by employing a lighter, more foot-hugging upper, a new foam midsole and an updated outsole. The result is a shoe that, combined with an early-stage rocker, delivers a responsive and efficient ride. And while the shoe has dropped weight, it does not compromise durability, thanks to the strategic placement of abrasion-resistant rubber in high-wear outsole areas.

Best for runners seeking lightweight jacket for protection against wet conditions, this light and highly packable jacket can be easily stuffed into a running pack, ready to be deployed when the weather takes a turn for the worse. The jacket features a waterproof breathable fabric as well as additional vents in the back, to ensure you remain comfortable when working hard. Brooks has added a fitted hood with a visor for additional weather without compromising your vision. Finally, the jacket’s semi-contoured fit allows unrestricted movement without adding excessive bulk.

Built with Drirelease wool for warmth, wicking and natural odour control, the Sval top is perfect for cooler weather running. Unlike many similar long-sleeve running tops, the Sval features highly breathable mesh panels under the arms, ensuring runners remain comfortable even during challenging workouts.

The lightweight Merino wool running top delivers the wicking and natural odour control runners need when training in warmer fall conditions. When the temperatures start to drop, runners can continue to use the Tech Lite II by simply wearing it as a base layer. This is a highly versatile short-sleeve top that does not have to be put away as the season progresses.

Built with a stretchy recycled fleece fabric, the Winter Warm Essential Leggings are perfect for windy and cool running conditions. The fabric features a smooth woven exterior face, while the inside has a soft and cosy brushed finish. The North Face adds a FlashDry finish to the material, improving wicking and reducing drying times. The legging also features a double-layer contoured waistband that sits higher at the back for additional warmth in colder temperatures. Finally, The North Face has included a large rear pocket that can accommodate a phone, ID and keys.

Built with a lightweight recycled polyester fabric, the Norvan 7″ Shorts are very breathable and surprisingly durable. The 7″ inseam provides the necessary coverage during trail running adventure without restricting the required range of movement. Arc’teryx adds a water-repellant finish for increased weather protection. Other notable details include an elastic waistband with a draw cord closure for a comfortable fit and two rear pockets for storing essentials when running without a pack or vest.

Serious runners will appreciate the no-compromise performance Craft builds into their PRO TRAIL Tights. Craft starts with a durable jersey fabric made from recycled fibres that provides excellent wicking. Craft then adds a wide, comfortable and draw-cord adjustable waistband, two zippered pockets, and two side mesh pockets for small essentials. Finally, a stretch woven tunnel on the back of the waistband discreetly accommodates gels or energy bars.

Products reviewed in this article: