Here’s What Our Run Editors Loved in September

Published October 10, 2023 09:39AM

Gear

On many trail run days, I’m looking for a shoe that sits somewhere between the barely-in-control flight of a trail supershoe and the intimate communing-with-every-rock of a minimalist model—a shoe that protects, performs, and politely disappears. Salomon’s new Thundercross epitomizes this versatile category, making it a model I reached for often during late summer runs. The 31-27mm stack height soothed impacts while allowing enough proprioception to feel agile. The EVA-Olefin midsole foam felt comfortably soft without being squishy, and didn’t rebound as much as provide a responsive platform for me to push off. The widely-spaced, variably-shaped lugs seem to grip everything from sand to mud to hard-pack and float quite smoothly over asphalt. Even the quick-pull lacing (which I normally dislike) worked well, snugging mid-foot straps over a generously padded tongue and adding to the pull-them-on-and-forget convenience of the shoes. — Jonathan Beverly, senior running editor, gear

While I’ve been loving the Vectiv Summit Pro for speedy singletrack cruises, the Vectiv Sky shoes are a great pick for techy alpine adventures. With the same lightweight upper as the Summit Pro, minus the propulsive plate and foam, these shoes offer a stable and secure ride in terrain that demands more agility and precision. They’re lightweight and offer a more nimble footprint for days when secure footing is a must. – Zoë Rom, editor in chief, Trail Runner, managing editor, Women’s Running

As summer turns to fall, most of my race calendar has wrapped up and I’m going on slower run/walks in the mountains, dreaming of fastpacking. This Black Diamond pack is a wonderful addition to my growing fastpack arsenal. But then again, I also recently took it out on a three-hour run on the Hardrock 100 course, as I didn’t have my more-minimal running vest, and it performed perfectly for a day run. No bounce. Big capacity. Expertly-cut with chest pockets for flasks and phone. Rip-stop fabric that feels indestructible. Vertical pockets for your Z-poles. It’s safe to say that I’ll be using this pack for a long, long time. – Nicholas Triolo, senior editor, Outside Run and Trail Runner

This summer, I showed up at the pool, and my friend commented on my outfit. Sure, my bathing suit and shirt were on point, but I think what really sold him were the Scenario Slides from Lusso that I was rocking. Little did he know I was wearing them for comfort more than style. I was first introduced to Lusso when I wrote about recovery apparel last year and thoroughly enjoyed their waffle knit Pelli. But for summertime I needed something more water-friendly, and the casual appeal and immense comfort of the Scenario make it a fantastic and waterproof post-run slide. – Alex Tzelnic, contributing editor

The first thing I said after running in this shoe? “This just doesn’t make any sense.” First, it was the first Topo shoe I’d ever run in. Second, the Cyclone 2 weighs in at 6.9 ounces, which is Topo’s lightest and fastest shoe to date. What didn’t make sense, though–and I’m a huge fan of hyperlight footwear–was how peppy and protective they felt, thanks to the generous Pebax foam underfoot and the smooth-soft upper. It didn’t feel like it was made of paper, and yet you sometimes forget they’re even on your feet sometimes. I’m saying this on the record: The Topo Cyclone 2 is one of my favorite road shoes of 2023. – N.T.

While I’ve long been a fan of Hoka’s maximalist footwear, I’m a recent convert to their sleek performance apparel. The Hupana tank and bra are the perfect transitional pieces of gear for layering. The fabric is buttery-soft and lightly compressive for a flattering, performance-oriented fit. The seams don’t rub or snag, and they are great under a long sleeve or light layer in chilly temps. The bra is one of the best I’ve tested in a while, with a sturdy construction that doesn’t pinch, and it dries in a flash. – Z.R.

Consider this a hug in a shoe. It’s true that, on race day, you want a race shoe. However, the majority of our running hours are spent logging the miles to prepare for race day over the amount of hours we actually spend racing. Having spent most of the year testing racing shoes, the Magnify Nitro 2, the daily trainer from PUMA, reminded me just how comfortable a training shoe can be, and should be. The second edition sets PUMA firmly in the line-up for one of the best every day training shoes. It features full-length NITRO foam, a rolled collar for even more comfort. And, for us ladies, the women’s edition has been upgraded with a narrower heel, lower arch, and more support for a female foot. When I reach into my running shoe selection for my daily miles, I keep reaching for the Magnify Nitro, and that says it all. – Melanie Mitchell, Run brand director

As the days get shorter, my inseams get longer. These are go-to tights for chilly adventures. The generous waistband doesn’t pinch, sag, or ride up during longer runs. Ample side pockets provide a place to stash snacks, trash, or even a phone. A tubular pocket at the lower back can carry a jacket or a flask with minimal bounce and hassle, making these trail-made tights ultra versatile. – Z.R.

TECH

I’m slowly transitioning my tech gadgets to solar-powered and USB-powered (buh-bye batteries) and these earbuds are the latest addition. Smooth as silk, the power-charging pod has a solar array on its side. Set it out on the patio (or literally near any light inside or outside) and that powers the earbuds for hours and miles. I did find the earbuds to not stay so snug in my ear hours into one particularly sweaty run, but for the majority of weekly miles, these are an elegant and eco-minded gadget that delivers exceptional sound quality. – N.T.

I don’t often switch up my headphone game—I’ve been wearing Beats Fit Pros for so long, I never considered trying anything new. But the Adidas FWD-02 SPORT headphones pleasantly surprised me. They’re super lightweight, but still stayed in place in my ear. The sound is clear and nice and loud. Even on the hottest of days where sweat is dripping everywhere, these headphones didn’t once slip out. Plus, I appreciated the “Awareness Mode” which allowed for more background noise to filter through so I felt safe and alert of my surroundings on my long runs. – Mallory Arnold, associate editor

NUTRITION

I’m always parched after a long run and, although water is the first thing I gulp down, I’m always reaching for the next tasty drink that’s not packed with a ton of sugar. These days, my fridge has been packed with Roar Complete Hydration. Per bottle, it consists of 10g of carbs, 2g sugar, 110mg of sodium, 400mg of vitamin A, and 58mg of potassium, making it both thirst-quenching and hydrating. Plus, Roar also comes in powder form, so I can easily pack a few in my pocket for my race-day pack. – M.A.

I typically prefer to make my own golden milk, as per Andrew Weil’s recipe, but often I’m moving too fast in my day and just need to make it quick and lovely. This Ora Golden Milk powder has been a go-to lately, an anti-inflammatory superdrink with turmeric, ashwagandha, reishi mushroom, ginger, and black pepper. It also has a little sweet touch of maple and vanilla so you don’t have to rifle around in your fridge for sweetness—only a little plant milk. This is the best pre-made golden milk powder I’ve found yet. – N.T.

Reading Material

In full transparency, I haven’t yet finished this book, but anything by Klein is a home run and, based on reviews and podcast interviews I’ve heard so far, this will be soon be known as a must-read for our times—times of discontent, times of uncanny doubling of selves, the public facing social media version of ourselves and the private, authentic, flawed versions. This book is getting into the downright strange times we’re in when it comes to identity and the digital multiverse, and it offers a sobering, laser-sharp synthesis from one of the smartest voices alive. – N.T.

Long a Stulberg #Stan, his recent work dives into the science and culture of change, and how we can all get better at navigating it. His succinct but compelling writing style makes the case that we’re always changing, and he outlines easy-to-grasp tools for navigating change in our own lives. – Z.R.

In Our Ears

After several friends who know top-shelf music far better than I do recommended this album to me, I complied and dug in. I’m glad I did. If you’re a fan of Maggie Rogers or Phoebe Bridgers or just love confident, emotionally-charged indie rock to run to, consider this album, the latest from Amber Bain. Start with the tracks “Touching Yourself” or “Boyhood.” – N.T.

Other Good Stuff

Michelle Wolf’s new multipart stand-up special on Netflix is brilliant fun. Broken down into digestible 20-minute segments, she dives into complex topics of gender, relationships, and overlooked power structures. Wolf is as funny as ever, and the quick bites offer an easy entrée into one of the best minds in comedy today. – Z.R.