Running is a simple sport, but there’s a small amount of kit you need and how good it is matters. As a keen runner, I know how important tried-and-tested recommendations are. While individual differences to your physiology are going to affect the choices you have, every now and then a running buddy will introduce you to a real gem of a product. Mine is a pair of trainers that a fellow club runner suggested I try after a long bout of lower-limb niggles. I still wear these shoes today and really do believe they make the difference!
That’s why we’ve selected a trusted panel of real runners to review the products entered into our inaugural Women’s Fitness Run Strong Awards. They’ve run over mud, up mountains, across grass and along tarmac. They’ve trained at night-time and in the morning; they’ve raced and they’ve jogged. And they’ve done it all so that they can award the brands and products they truly believe in. Want to know which gear got the thumbs up? Read on…
BEST HIGH-IMPACT SPORTS BRA
Maaree Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra
(£68, maaree.com)
This is the sports bra that runners are raving about! It features a unique adjustable Overband Technology – a curved panel that runs on top of the breasts to reduce upward bounce, which can be tightened using the side fastenings for extra support.
OUR TESTER SAYS: ‘I felt very supported and happy to run in this bra. I also liked the option of keeping the straps in the H style or being able to link together to create a racer back – I think this really adds to the comfort and versatility of the product. The quality of the material is also really good.’
UA Infinity High Crossover Sports Bra
(£53, underarmour.co.uk)
Featuring ‘figure-of-eight’ support to reduce breast motion when doing high-impact sports such as running, this bra is made from one piece of moulded, PU-injected padding that’s both super comfortable and light in feel.
OUR TESTER SAYS: ‘This is a great piece of kit that looks good as a bra or a top and seems to hold everything in place without pinching or generating any unsightly bumps. It gives great support and is comfortable to wear. Plus, the material is very quick drying, even after a particularly hard running session. A dependable bra that doesn’t distract from running.’
Gymshark Racerback High Support Sports Bra
(£40, uk.shop.gymshark.com)
This bra boasts moulded cups and a racerback and offers a dual-cup sizing system (each cup size covers two sizes e.g. B/C fits a B or a C), it’s a great option for those
