From sweat-wicking fabrics to cushioned soles that make every step feel cloud-soft, there’s no shortage of clever running tech out there. The tricky part? Figuring out what it all actually means and which options are right for you. That’s where this guide comes in. In it, we’re breaking down some of the most popular running tech from top brands to help you find what works best for your running style.

You’re standing in one of our stores and you’re browsing the running clothing and shoe aisle; but what do all these terms mean? While they may seem random to a beginner runner, they’re far from it. Running technology that’s built into shoes, clothing and accessories is designed to aid the runner while they’re out, helping with performance, speed and even things like body temperature.

Many brands have their own form of running tech, from Nike’s Dri-FIT to New Balance’s Fresh Foam, but you may be left scratching your head wondering which one’s best.

Depending on the type of running you do, whether you’re a casual weekend 5k person or you’re feverishly waiting for the next ultra, every runner can benefit from some form of tech. But why? Running tech matters for numerous reasons, including:

• Enhancing your comfort while you run, reducing impact and providing more cushioning
• Improving energy efficiency and that all-important responsiveness – this is especially great for race days or when you’re trying to smash a PB
• Keeping you cool and dry, especially if you’re very sweaty or it’s really warm outside
• Supporting your foot and how you run – not sure what we mean by this? Check out our gait analysis guide to learn more

Running is about having fun and getting fit, so having the right kit is essential – as well, you can show off your new tech at your next race or run club meet up!

RUNNING SHOE AND CLOTHING TECHNOLOGY BY BRAND

As we mentioned above, many brands on the running scene have their own form of running tech. Let’s run through some of the most popular ones and why they’re so good.

Nike Running Tech

Flyknit: a breathable, lightweight material built from strong and sturdy yarn, creating an upper that’s both comfortable and durable. Throughout the upper, you’ll experience specific points of support, these are made from a tighter weave, helping the shoe stay secure on your foot yet still offer the lightweight feel you crave in Nike’s running shoes.

Zoom and Zoom X: Zoom X is one of the lightest Nike foams, made with energy return in mind. It’s softer and one of the most responsive foams, perfect if you’re looking for innovative tech that’ll aid in your run. Zoom is a cushioning system made Using pressurised air and stretched fibres, the unit is created and slotted into the midsole, and is ideal for absorbing impact.

Dri-FIT: used in a lot of Nike’s clothing, it’s a moisture-wicking fabric that helps keep the wearer dry and comfortable for the duration of the run by wicking the sweat away from your skin and onto the clothing instead, which can help speed up the evaporation process, all while keeping your body temperature maintained.

React: this is a soft yet versatile foam that’s made for keeping you comfortable throughout your workout. If you’re searching for ultimate comfort as well as sturdiness, then the React running shoes are for you.

Nike’s collection of running shoes and clothing are ideal for those looking for the perfect blend of lightweight materials with energetic response; beginner or pro, Nike’s by your side with tech made to benefit you.

adidas Running Tech

Boost: looking for a cushioning system that’ll feel as if you’re running on clouds? The Boost technology that adidas infuses into some of their running shoes uses expanded TPU particles, which help create small air pockets. This means your run feels light and bouncy, like you’re stepping on clouds – who doesn’t want that?

Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro: if you’re searching for running shoes that’ll help you break PBs, look for models that have either Lightstrike or Lightstrike Pro foam technologies. A lightweight foam, this tech aims to help your running be more efficient in terms of speed and performance - so if you’re trying to crack down on a faster time, this could be the tech that you’re dreaming of.

AEROREADY: we understand the need for breathable clothing when you’re running and adidas AEROREADY tech provides just that. Whether you’re running on a treadmill or outside in mid-day sun, AEROREADY technology helps to wick sweat away from the body, with quick-drying materials helping to keep your mind on the run at hand and not how sweaty you might be!

RDY Series: this series of tech includes HEAT.RDY, COLD.RDY, WIND.RDY and RAIN.RDY - but what does this mean? adidas created the RDY series for their running clothing so you can keep running, no matter the weather. Using weather-specific properties, the RDY series knows how to keep you cool when it’s warm, warm when it’s cool, dry from the rain and protected from the wind.

Running in poor weather isn’t for everyone (there’s nothing wrong with a good treadmill session when it’s raining outside), but if that’s your style, then adidas’ tech has what you need.

ASICS Running Tech

GEL: an iconic range, the ASICS-GEL running shoes use shock absorption and cushioning to create running shoes that’ll keep you comfortable and supported. The GEL tech targets the midsole of the running shoe, building on its softness and support, so your feet feel snug for the duration of the wear.

FlyteFoam: underfoot cushioning in ASICS running shoes, FlyteFoam offers that much-needed comfort when you’re running. It's lightweight, so you won’t be weighed down, using a high gas content with thinner bubble walls.

Actibreeze: ASICS clothing that features Actibreeze technology means you’ll stay cool while you run. Using breathable fabrics combined with ventilation, you can maintain a low body temperature while working out, so you won’t have to worry about overheating.

If you’re searching for footwear or clothing that’ll keep you protected on long-distance runs, then the ASICS tech might be just what you’re looking for.

New Balance Running Tech

Fresh Foam: using a 3D motion-captured pressure mapping system, NB created Fresh Foam to provide comfort where it’s needed most in some of their running shoes, so you can run comfortably.

FuelCell: this tech was made with PVA foam, or nitrogen-fueled TPU performance foam, so energy can be boosted out of the midsole as you run. It’s great for energy return of course, and it’s comfortable enough that you can wear these shoes when running longer distances (marathon, anyone?)

Dry/Ice/Heat: embedded into their clothing, the Dry/Ice/Heat tech helps your body adapt to the temperature so you can stay cool, dry, warm. The Dry tech uses moisture-wicking properties so you can stay cool and dry. Ice uses a cooling fabric which is activated when you sweat, and is both quick-drying and has two-way air circulation (so if you love running in peak summer hours, this is for you). The Heat tech is the opposite of Ice, helping to trap heat in, while being lightweight and still sweat-wicking.

For runners who like to lace up no matter the weather, to those who want to indulge in ultimate cushioning, the New Balance running tech is for you.

ON Running Tech

CloudTec®: ON are known for their innovative tech, helping runners all over the world to excel in the sport. Their CloudTec®** is a cushioning system that helps absorb impact as you run, with small pods in the shoe that compress, allowing for the absorption to happen.

Speedboard® and Helion® foam: the Speedboard®** is a plate that aids in momentum and the Helion®** foam helps to absorb shock. Basically, they work together to make sure you’re being propelled forward with each step – ideal for making every step count.

DryTec™: fast-drying, moisture-wicking, all while looking stylish. ON’s DryTec™ technology seamlessly blends into their running clothing, creating pieces you can wear for every run, even the ones that require a bit more sweat and effort!

Missiongrip™: into your trail running or exploring new paths? Look for ON’s Missiongrip™** label. Shoes with this tech offer great traction underfoot, so whether you’re coming up against loose rocks, dirt, or wet weather, these can help you stay upright and secure as you run.

ON gives runners the tools they need to succeed, no matter the weather. If you’re after something innovative and sleek, then this tech is worth a look into,

Saucony Running Tech

PWRRUN / PWRRUN PB / PWRRUN HG foams: all forms of midsole foam, this Saucony tech offers comfort while you run, with PB and HG being great for racing, and the regular PWRRUN being a good option for everyday use.

Speedroll™ Geometry: another bit of midsole tech, this helps provide efficiency to the midsole’s shape, meaning you can make every stride count.

FORMFIT™: are you always searching for that custom feel in your running shoes? The FORMFIT™** tech provides an adaptive system that secures the foot into the shoe, moulding to the natural curves and lines, aiding in a more secure fit - great for stability.

Trail Tech (PWRTRAC**™** and Rock Plate): these techs will be ideal for the trail runners among us, so listen up! If you like heading off-road, you’ll want shoes that are going to protect your feet. Trail Tech offers cushioning and protection from rocks, moisture and other trail-running menaces that could cause you to slip or fall.

If you’re looking for a smooth run, with shoes that work with you in each step, the Saucony range is a must-see.

HOW TO MATCH YOUR RUNNING STYLE TO THE CORRECT TECH

Whether you’re a complete pro who’s just finished their tenth marathon (hey, ask Marie Curie’s Health editor Ally Head, she’s done it!) or you’re just getting started, every runner can benefit from running tech.

Still unsure what’s best for you? Here’s a few handy hints to get you started:

• Beginners: if you’ve just started casually running, or you’re doing the Couch to 5K, then think about opting for tech that prioritises comfort and cushioning. Leave the carbon plated shoes at home - save them for the big race you might have coming up
• Trail runners: you’ll want wind resistant clothing that has good waterproof or water resistant properties, too. In your shoes, traction is your best friend
• Cold-weather runners: if heading out in the winter is your thing, choose tech that’s made to keep you warm without getting sweaty – think: insulation!
• Long-distance runners: if you’re consistently clocking half marathon-esque distances, or you’re planning on doing a full, or even an ultramarathon soon, choose tech that’s lightweight and easy to wear. In terms of your footwear, responsive midsoles are great as they’ll keep you going for longer
• Speed work or race day runners: pick the responsive foams that’ll keep you comfortable but also quick on your feet, and prioritise lightweight materials to keep it light and breezy

For the ultimate running wardrobe, try to find both clothing and shoes that offer beneficial tech - you’ll be thankful for it later, trust us.

TECH TERMINOLOGY YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE SHOPPING

• Pronation: this is how your foot rolls inward when you’re walking or running. There are three main types of pronation, including neutral (generally, an even distribution when your foot hits the ground), overpronation (a foot that tends to roll inward) and underpronation (opposite to overpronation, this is where the foot rolls outward)
• Footstrike: this is how your foot lands when you’re running. There are three places this normally happens, the hell, midfoot or forefoot
• Gait analysis: a system that shows how you walk or run, gait analysis can uncover any issues and how to improve on them
• Cadence: referring to the number of steps taken in a minute
• Cushioning: built into a lot of running shoes, a cushioned layer helps protect your foot from the ground, keeping you comfortable as you run
• Stability shoes: if you’ve had your gait tested, or you’ve noticed your pronation isn’t neutral, then stability running shoes can provide much-needed security and support for your feet, ankles and legs
• Upper, midsole and outsole: the upper of a shoe refers to the fabric that covers your foot, the midsole is the layer sandwiched in the middle (usually where the cushioning is found) and the outsole is the bottom layer that protects your foot from the ground

RUNNING TECH TAKEAWAYS

So we’re probably on the same page now: running tech is brilliant! When you purchase your first piece (or five), remember to think about your running style, as well as where you run – i.e. you probably don’t need the latest tech-filled trail running shoes if you predominantly run on treadmills at the gym.

Consider the weather conditions you usually run in, the terrain and how far you run (are you a short or long-distance runner, or both?) Get your gait tested if you haven’t already – in some of our stores you can get it done completely free! Once you’ve got your first moisture-wicking t-shirt or cushioned shoes, you won’t look back.