It's that time of the year when suddenly it is a good time to go off road. Maybe you switch your road bike to a mountain bike. And maybe you hang up your trusted road shoes for some trail running shoes. If you have not spent anytime running off road then it is definitely a great experience. We recommend you give it a go. 

Read our review of the 2017 Kanadia 8 

We review Adidas Kanadia 7 Trail Running Shoes. And if you care the colour is Indigo/White/Yellow and they look like this:

Firstly let's get the price out the way. You can pick up a pair of these trainers for about £50 and you get a lot of shoe for your money.

Read on below... but why not join the Sundried mailing list.

The sole and grip

The outsole features a special Adidas mud guard and their own high-grip Traxion technology. The grips feature a lock technology designed to offer a tight grip in all conditions. They have taken into account running on hard surfaces by somehow staggering the lugs for higher ground penetration and tight locks for soft ground. So what does that mean? Well on wet, slippy grass how we tested the trainers, you can be running at a strong pace without the slipping and sliding feel; enabling you to push harder and move faster than usual. Up and down hills on soft ground. They really do stick to the floor. 

On man made flat surfaces however the stability is lost. If you are running a course that is on and off road then these trainers may not be the best choice. It is very hard to get the stability on and off road from a single pair of shoes. These are very much trail shoes and on a stony trail they are ideal. 

The sole is very firm and stony ground is not a problem. If you are used to taking a road shoe on the occasional off-road run then the stability and protection from uneven ground will be a welcome surprise. 

Overall it is a lot of shoe for not much money. And if you can stretch to a dedicated off-road shoe this is definitely a contender. But if you do need to have a multi-purpose on and off-road shoe for very occasional trail running then a softer soled pair of trainers that work better on road conditions may be a more appropriate choice. 

Multi-Surface Testing

These trail shoes are developed to offer support and performance on all the typical surfaces you will come across. From grass and typical gravel tracks. TO the beach for the ultimate stability test on loose shingle. Watch our short YouTube video to see some of the surfaces we test the shoes on. 

An update as we test more

When you test a new product you always find things at a later date. You may find problems with something, or hidden gems that you really like. Here are a few post review features we would like to share.

Surface Testing

Beach / Shingle

Most runners will steer clear of running on lose shingle, or the beach. Running on compacted sand is typically quite nice, but on very lose shingle the return with each stride is completely lost. Great HIIT training as your feet sink into the surface. Also good if you  have injuries caused from heel striking. As long as you are careful you can build your muscles with almost no impact at the knees. But you will need a good pair of trail running shoes with plenty of ankle support. If your ankles are not appropriately supported it would be easy to twist your ankle from placing your foot down at an angle. The Adidas Kanadia trainers offer plenty of support and really help injury prevention. 

Grass

A lot of trail running in on grass surfaces. But grass running itself is such a broad topic and so closely related to the weather. The Kanadia on dry grass are completely fine. But then most shoes on dry grass are fine. The real test is on wet grass. And apart from getting a bit soggy, they grips offer enough support to really provide a solid run.

Gravel Path

Some shoes on gravel seem to pick up every stone and when you switch to a solid surface you clip clop away and risk sliding and falling. These do not pick up stones like some training shoes do, but the same is not said for wet mud

Concerete Pathways

When running on concrete you really notice the change from the natural cushioning of the grass for example. I would defiantly not like to run too far on the road in the Kanadia. Limited cushioning and your feet seem to search for a safe place to root. Fine for a few K but anything more switch to road shoes. 

The Laces

Running shoes typically have a thick, circular lace, or a flat lace similar to the Adidas Kanadia 7 trainer. I have found the laces are very textured and although not highlighted as a feature by Adidas, they really do grip once tied. That means without any double knots or extra tight bows these trainers stay put once done up. That certainly is not a bad thing for any runner, especially when you are off road and may not actually see a lace that has come untied. The last thing you want when running down a steep hill in the rain is to discover your laces and flapping in the wind. Not only do they seem to be super functional, I have really grown to like their two tone colouring. 

The magical Loop

Most trainers do not bother with the loop at the back to help put on your shoes. Unless you are in a triathlon speed is not normally a consideration for getting your footwear on in a hurry. The loop on heel to help put on your trainers I do think is missing from some footwear and for a pair of trail running shoes it is very useful. You may have driven to an off-road spot, and you are standing in the rain switching from your 'car shoes' to your 'trail shoes'. For me, it has certainly got some use. 

So the mesh in these shoes is going to hold your feet still and let them breathe. But it certainly will not keep out the water. Some off-road shoes do offer a certain amount of waterproofing - but I typically find they end up holding the water in as your feet turn to water weights. Your feet will get wet in soggy conditions, but they will also dry out nice and quickly. And at the moment, it seems we can not escape the rain!

Adidas technical info

• Weight: 238 g (size UK 5.5)
• Air mesh upper for maximum ventilation
• Waterproof bottom mud guard helps keep water and mud out
• Comfortable textile lining
• Engineered 3-Stripes panel for optimum linear and lateral support
• TRAXION™ outsole for maximum grip in all directions

Adidas Kanadia 7 Review

It is certainly thumbs up and feet down on the ground for these trainers. Nice quality, stylish and fast. Well as fast as your legs can move. They stick to wet ground enabling all that power to drive you forward. 

As we move into the dryer months you may be looking for a trail shoe that does not work as well on wet ground. The versatile Kanadia with its grip to tackle multiple surfaces is an all year round appropriate pair of trainer. 

The Ultimate Test

Mud runs... There are many of these out there now under various names. Tough Mudder. Nuclear Races. Bear Grills. Etc. A mix of very wet, boggy ground and obstacles. The perfect place to test the grip. On almost vertical wet mud banks straight into boggy water. 

Two things that I was happy with. When walking through, well dragging your limbs through, waste-deep mud water the shoes stayed on. Excellent. I saw plenty of people with their footwear missing.

And secondly when climbing out of the bogs via a rope, or some kind person boosting you from below not sliding straight back in. Seeing someone sliding like they are ice skating is not uncommon. Many people opt for old footwear so they do not ruin their favourite running shoes. I say buy some new trail shoes for the occasion. They will wash up just fine and may just save your sliding face first into a ditch. 

The New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Version 3 is the latest speed shoe in the New Balance Fresh Foam series.

New Balance Zante Key Facts:

Features Fresh Foam Technology

6 main models in the fresh foam series

The Zante is the “Fast” model

The third version in the zante series

3 CW ( Black/ Electric Blue, Black/ Thunder, Alpha Orange/ Outer Space)

6mm Drop

Synthetic/Mesh Upper

Weighs around 250grams

Tight knit around the midfoot and tongue but has large holes in mesh in the toe box.

Padded Ankle collar

Hexagonal pattern on the outsole.

£95 RRP on New Balance website

What is New Balance Fresh Foam?

New Balance say that Fresh Foam technology is an “innovative midsole created from a single piece of foam that provides a plush, more natural ride”. Fresh Foam is a cut of foam with a variety of hexagonal concaves and convexes throughout the allow the runner to run with no discomfort. Fresh Foam is now used on a large selection of New Balance shoes, including winter boots and more casual, lifestyle models.

New Balance Fresh Foam Zante V3 Review

The Fresh Foam Zante Version 3 comes in three colourways; Black/ Electric Blue, Black/ Thunder, and I chose the  Alpha Orange/ Outer Space version. I personally was drawn to the bright orange pair because they would be better for using at night, because they are impossible to miss and very, very visible. However, the black/ thunder colourway is also a great looking shoe. The New Balance logo also features 3M detailing meaning that it has reflective qualities, which gives even the black/ thunder colourway some visibility in darker conditions.

The first thing I noticed when I put them on for the first time was the fit. The various different patterns of the knitted mesh upper give a tight but true to size fit in the toebox, but some runners with wider feet may find them too tight. The various patterns also allow your feet to breathe when using them in hot weather. Unfortunately, I have only been able to use them in wet and damp conditions which gave me slightly soggy socks.

Fresh Foam is the standout feature on the shoe and it definitely delivers. The Fresh Foam Technology allows a comfortable ride but at the same time gives a barefoot feel to your run. Zante Version 3 also has a very supportive and comfortable heel counter which allowed me to use them for a longer distance than I planned. The Fresh Foam is designed to have a 6mm drop (differing between sizes and models) which adds the ability to run for longer distances without your feet getting sore. The honeycomb-like design on the Fresh Foam gives the runner extra comfort when running at higher speeds, which was great for practising my sprints.

The honeycomb design is also used on the shoe's’ outsole, adding good grip on some mixed terrain. The tread works particularly well on road and pavements which allowed me to change directions at high speed without slipping too much.

New Balance Fresh Foam Vs  Adidas Ultra Boost

As a big fan of an Adidas everything, my immediate reaction was to compare the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante 3’s to my beloved Adidas Ultra Boost. Many people see the Ultra Boost as the most comfortable shoe on the market and is now marketed as a lifestyle shoe, as well as Adidas trying to put their Boost Technology in every other shoe they make.

The Fresh Foam is comparable to my Ultra Boosts even though I am biased towards my Ultra Boost. Even though the Zante Version 3’s that I have been testing focus on the comfort in the midsole, they excel over the Ultra Boost’s in the comfort in the heel, which has led to many users of the Ultra Boost having problems with their achilles (link to article).  New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Version 3 gives me extremely good comfort and support in the heel which is something I’m not used to.

Something I was also not used to was the ease of purchase and price. My Adidas Ultra Boosts were £135 from Adidas, and I also had to be online and ready to shop for 9am before they instantly sold out in every size apart from 13.5 (Adidas have since made more pairs available on their store or other retailers). Zante Version 3 was £95 from New Balance and I didn't have to set an alarm to buy them. Although the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Version 3 has so many positives, and were better to run in than my Adidas AlphaBounce or any Adidas Tubular,  It’s hard to steer me away from my lifelong Adidas Addiction.

The Verdict

New Balance Fresh Foam Zante 3 is a great running shoe that focuses on comfort when running at speeds. The bright colours and details offer great visibility whether you run in the day or night. The shoe has an RRP of £95 which is a lot cheaper than the similar models from other big competitors. You can purchase them from New Balance’s website.

What are Hoka shoes?

Hoka shoes are the reason I’ve been two inches taller for the last month.

Hoka is the fasted growing shoe brand in the world, easily recognisable by their extra thick soles, which look like a platform.

Back in 2009, when Hoka was first released, minimalist shoes were all the rage, but Hoka went completely against that, challenging everything we know about running shoes. You could even call them, ‘maximalist’. But why?

The founders were two life-long runners, seeking stability from their running shoes that minimalist footwear just doesn’t offer after the miles rack up. They wanted a shoe that would enable a natural foot motion, with a super-cushioned sole to provide stability that helps create uniformity in running stride.

Originally loved by ultra-runners for helping them push through their super long runs - we’re talking a marathon and more here, the cushioned running shoe has now grown in popularity to see runners of all distances rebounding off their Hoka Meta-Rockers.

Fun Fact: Hoka One One, pronounced "Hoka O-nay O-nay", means "now it is time to fly" in Maori.

What is a Hoka Meta Rocker?

The Meta Rocker is the feature that has made this brand famous, it’s the reason for the thick soles and a more comfortable run.

Hoka say: “Our Meta-Rocker midsole geometry is specifically designed with a low heel-toe differential and a sculpted outsole to create a unique fulcrum effect, like a rocking chair, to encourage a guided gait cycle. This design supports a runner's natural form while promoting an efficient, smooth roll from initial impact to toe-off.”

So in plain English, it’s the tech that makes the sole of the Hoka Clifton 3 like a rocking chair, which helps support your run through the way it encourages you to land your feet.

Hoka Shoes Sizing

Somewhat ironically, I found the Hoka shoes quite small in their fit. Big on padding short on room. My regular shoe size is a 4, so when I buy my running shoes, I opt for 4.5. When I first slipped on the Hoka Clifton 3’s, they felt super snug and I was a little concerned they were going to pinch my toes. However, after my first run, the trainers gave a little give and fit perfectly. The Clifton 3 upper features a seamless design with a wide toe box which makes the fit really comfortable. Despite the high platform of the shoe, there is a minimal toe drop, which is good for runners who are concerned about shortening the achilles - although there is little to no concrete evidence to support this.

What's a really great design feature of these trainers is the loop to the back of the heel to help slip the trainers on and off easily. It's the largest loop I've had on any brand of trainers and makes these trainers really easy to get into and out of.

The shoes are so light, you’d forget you were wearing them if it wasn’t for the fact that you’re 2 inches taller!

Hoka Clifton Review

Time to fly. The very first run in these shoes I sung “we’re walking in the air” in my head for almost the entire duration, it was Christmas and there I was floating on the huge platform of cushioning in my new Hoka Clifton 3 trainers. I hope this conjures up a beautiful mental image for you. The run was easy, each step felt supported, the impact was cushioned and I finished up thinking it was a Christmas miracle I’d glided through my run so easily. After the first run I decided I was probably just a little festively tipsy still, surely these running shoes could not be that unlike anything I’d ever run in before?

Then there was run two. My second run was just the same, except this time there was no risk of festive tinted glasses. It was true. These running shoes were completely different to anything I’d ever run in. The cushion absorbs the impact of your stride meaning you feel as though you can run for longer - great for distance runners and the rocker helped to ease my hobbling run and provide a more smooth gait, which actually showed up in my feedback from my Wahoo Ticker X which gives your running technique a score using motion trackers and let me tell you with the help of the Clifton 3's, I’m smooth.

There is one setback of the Hoka trainers and that is speed. For shorter fast runs or sprints, I feel like my foot sinks into the cushioning and I can’t really get that push off the ground you need to pick up speed. But that being said, these are designed for ultra runners and I don’t know many runners who can sprint for that kind of distance!

You’ve got to be off your rocker…

Never judge a meta-rocker by its cover. At first, I thought I would look like a right wolly in these trainers and I wasn’t sure about this ‘meta-rocker’ business. But after actually running in these I am a changed woman. They really do change the feel of a run.

Where to Buy Hoka Shoes

There are lots of retailers who stock this increasingly popular brand, but for the latest styles I’d go direct to the Hoka website.

The Clifton 3 reviewed (RRP: £100) is the latest iteration in the multi-award winning Clifton lineage.

Vibram and Vivobarefoot are probably the two biggest brands designed specifically for the barefoot runner, while other industry giants may have dabbled, these two are first and foremost barefoot brands.

In my experience, I’ve always found that those who train in barefoot or minimalist shoes, tend to like to tell you about it. They’ll scoff at your padding and wiggle their toes until they go blue in the face, but why are people so enthusiastic about being barefoot? Should we all be ditching the padding and reverting to a barefoot style shoe. It seems like in a world where technology is constantly advancing, the fitness industry is constantly trying to rewind history, first with the Paleo diet and now barefoot shoes!

Vibram vs Vivobarefoot

Appearance

As a twenty-something female, when it comes to trainers, as much as I want function, I’m in it for the aesthetics. I want to look good in my trainers and wear them as casualwear as well as whilst I’m training. I would not wear either of these trainers as casualwear. Make no mistake, neither barefoot trainer blends into your workout wardrobe. They stand out. They create a reaction. People will stare. People will ask, are you prepared to answer? Once you’ve tried them, I bet you will be.

5 Finger KSO Evo

Sole: The hugging sole of the Vibrams is less than 5mm (so very very thin). The soles are made with the XS TREK technology that is said to provide traction, stability, comfort and durability. Although they are barely existent. The soles do feel like you are directly on the floor and I think combined with the fact you have no socks on, you’ll feel bare.

Lacing: The shoe fastens with a speed lace system, which features a toggle fastening. I rate the lacing system on these. It’s quick and easy and stays really secure. I often have to stop and re- adjust my laces, so this was a real bonus. The lace allows plenty of adjustment as well meaning it's suitable for both a wide and narrower foot.

The toes: This is where I struggled. The Vibram is designed with individual toes to mimic being barefoot as closely as possible, allowing each toe to grip individually and strengthen the toes. The difficulty here is that people’s toes are rather different. Some people have a longer second toe, some people have toes which decrease in size as they move down the foot and some people's toes just have a mind of their own. The toe sockets on the Vibram have the first and second toes as equal and then decrease in size. For me, this was no good, I have small toes and they didn’t manage to fill the sockets, leaving the empty space at the end which was annoying as well as uncomfortable.

Vivobarefoot Stealth

The Vivobarefoot Stealth has a very flat sole, whereas the Vibram contours around your foot, the Vivobarefoot sits completely smooth against the ground. The trainers are very flexible and very lightweight. The toe box is really wide allowing plenty of room for your toes to wiggle about, but with this shoe they can do so whilst snug together in one box. The upper is seamless with the Vivobarefoots signature hexagon laminate upper, which allows breathability and endurance in one, plus it looks cool. I feel more protected in these than the five fingers, whilst remaining grounded.

Performance

When transitioning from a regular trainer to a barefoot running shoe, runners often experience pain. Why? It’s something other than what they're used to. Barefoot running requires different strengths and therefore both barefoot designers recommend a transitional period, starting with running short distances in their shoes while your muscles become accustomed to the new style.

Vibram

Running in the Vibrams feels cool, granted I’ve only run for shorter distances so far, which is what is recommended as you transition, but I felt lighter, despite the lack of cushioning, I felt bouncier. Why’s this? Barefoot running forces you to run with better posture, landing on the front of your foot. Running over fields and other debris is fine as the sole of the shoe still has you covered. My path was reasonably clear but a few bits of rubble didn’t put me off, you can feel it, but it’s not painful.

Vivobarefoot

Running in the Vivobarefoots felt equally as lightweight as the five fingers, but somehow a bit more protected. I think this is due to their design being more similar to what I’m used to, just having the comfort of all my toes working together, for me, was better. The wide toe box allows your forefoot to lead the way comfortably, whilst the tongue and laces ensure your foot isn’t slipping forward in the shoe. I also trained legs in these and found I could lift heavier and jump higher, being able to push off my heels rather than push into the cushioning of a regular trainer.

Multi-purpose

Both trainers are designed to be multi-purpose, I see coverts wearing Vibrams 24/7, not just for their gym session but for their daily food shop. Equally Vivobarefoot have a range of casual footwear for every occasion, with their barefoot sole design.

Statistics

Verdict

Whilst both trainers put in a good performance on a barefoot run, personally I prefer my toes being together, call me old fashioned, but for me, this makes the Vivostealth my winner.

For anyone new to running in a minimalist shoe, I would recommend reading up on the benefits of barefoot running. Either of these shoes would be good to support your transition when changing to a barefoot running style, I would argue that there is no clear winner and your decision is going to be down to personal preference and finding which trainer has the best fit for your feet.

Minimalist Running Shoes

Sales of minimalist running shoes have grown into a $1.7 billion industry in the US. Sales of minimalist running shoes grew from $450,000 in 2006 to $59 million in 2012, and grew 303% from November 2010 through November 2012, compared to a 19% increase in the overall sales of running shoes during the same time period. In the summer of 2012, both Vibram and Adidas were sued in the United States regarding allegations of deceptive claims of increased training efficiency, foot strength, and decreased risk of injury resulting from use of their minimalist running shoes. These lawsuits follow on the heels of recent settlements by Skechers and Reebok with the Federal Trade Commission over claims that their barefoot shoes strengthen the body in ways no shoes ever had before.

The History

Adios Boost 1

Advertised as neutral shoes that have been designed for marathon running. The technology of the moment was ADIPRENE®+ in the forefoot to fuel your stride.

• Weight: 7.8 ounces (size 9)
• Lightweight mesh upper; ADIPRENE®+ in the forefoot maintains propulsion and efficiency; Non-slip lining
• TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity; Compression molded EVA midsole; Molded EVA sockliner for anatomical fit and great step-in comfort
• ADIPRENE® under the heel for superior cushioning at impact
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability

Adios Boost 2

The Boost 2 introduced the energy-returning boost™ foam midsole, a super-breathable Coolever mesh upper with earth-friendly synthetic suede overlays, and extended TORSION® SYSTEM support in the midfoot.

• boost™'s energy-returning properties keep every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy
• Coolever mesh upper for maximum breathability
• Extended TORSION® SYSTEM for energy return in the forefoot and natural integrity in the midfoot
• Coolever mesh shoe lining; Moulded responsive EVA sockliner for anatomical fit and great step-in comfort
• QUICKSTRIKE outsole decreases weight and increases flexibility and durability; Continental™ Rubber for optimal grip in wet conditions

Adizero Adios 3 - Boost 3 - The Claim

Again developed for marathon-running and in keeping with the heritage of the style. Low profile for a neutral runner featuring a breathable mesh upper and full boost™ midsole.

• Weight: 230 g (size UK 8.5)
• boost™'s energy-returning properties keep every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy
• Open mesh upper for maximum breathability; Synthetic overlays for durable support
• Coolever mesh lining for superior moisture and heat exchange between the foot and the outside air; TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability; Continental™ Rubber outsole for extraordinary grip in wet and dry conditions
• Runner type: neutral; Stack height: 27 mm / 18 mm (9 mm differential)

So the new feature introduced on paper seems to be the partnership with Continental™. No one can argue with Continental’s ability to sell us rubber. Let’s hope they work as well in footwear as they do in our car and bike tyres.

What is the Boost Technology?

Adidas say their boost technology features thousands of visible energy stores that store and unleash endless energy every-time your foot hits the ground.

On the Adidas website there are some very positive reviews from Adidas customers. This is a pair of training shoes I am looking forward to running in.

Why the Adizero Adios 3?

These are trainers that are designed or a neutral foot position / foot strike. This means when you run your heel is the not first point of contact and is arguably a better, more efficient way of running.

To test yourself if you should let your heel strike when you run get a skipping rope. When you skip you are (more than likely) bouncing up and down on you toes. If you try and land on your heels it is likely your mind will stop you. If your heel strikes first the impact will shoot right up your body, through your knees on the way up. If your toes or forefoot hit the floor first then it will absorb a lot of the impact from the foot strike and save your keens and cartilage giving you more healthy, pain free years in the future.

The Adidas running shoes we have to test are colour Bright Royal/Core Black/Ftwr White (AF6555)

The adidas adizero Adios 3 running shoes have arrived. Time to run and time to review.

Adidas Adizero Adios 3 Running Shoe Review

Adidas full boost midsole

The low-profile design when sitting the trainers next to other pairs of shoes do not seem too low-profile. But I think they are classing them as low-profile compared with a typical air cushioned / cushioned running shoe. Not necessarily a neutral shoe.

Their Boost technology is also a new addition and a groundbreaking innovation in cushioning. Adidas claim more energy return than any other foam cushioning in the industry. When it comes to running, however, typically your feet are not firing back in the air direct where they land. They are travelling under your body for a split second. So if there is a special energy system maybe it will work better for skipping.

Running in these shoes however, the cushioning is definitely noticeable. They feel very padded with each strike, but I can not say I feel my feet firing into the air with their energy return. The thousands of energy capsules can been seen in the following photos. They look like a bit of natural sponge. They definitely do offer a lot of support.

Adidas full boost midsole

Size and Fit

When it comes to size options Adidas have them all. That’s right. UK half sizes that seem to be getting forgotten about more and more by most brands as the dominance of the Euro sizing kicks in. It has been a while since I have hand the option of ordering a half size, so I go for the 9.5 UK. The length is spot on, but trying these shoes on for the first time I haven’t had my feet so crammed in on the width for a long time. Day to day I wear VivoBarefoot shoes. So plenty of room to move. But even compared against the New Balance Vazee Pace shown below the Adidas are about 1.5 cm narrower. This may be fine for you if you are not used to a particularly wide fit trainer, but if you want your feet to have space to flex then it may be a deal breaker.

These shoes are advertised as a neutral shoe and most people I know who run with a forefoot strike do prefer a wide shoe.

Style

The adidas adizero Adios 3 running shoes have a typical ‘adidas’ originals look about them. Even though they are running shoes. They have that type of look about them that will only be enhanced once they are a little muddy and tatty from all your road running. These are definitely cooler looking than the New Balance but you should be buying a running shoe for function over style. YES you should!