Men's Running at Black Friday

Preparing for a marathon: the competition pair

For a timed goal, from ten kilometres to the marathon, the competition shoe saves valuable seconds. The adidas Adizero Adios Pro combines a highly responsive foam with carbon rods that stiffen the forefoot; the Puma Deviate Nitro relies on a carbon plate and nitrogen-infused foam. These models are reserved for specific sessions and race day, as their foam wears out faster. To prepare for the goal, the Asics Superblast, high and lightweight, without a plate, handles long runs at a steady pace, and the Nike Vomero cushions recovery runs.

By product type

The men's selection is organised by type:

• Running shoes, road and track.
• Trail shoes, for the paths.
• Textiles, jackets, shirts, and socks.

The Black Friday running is also available for women, running, trail, accessories, on the running page.

Running in the rain and cold

In winter, the outfit is adjusted based on the feeling of the first ten minutes: a bit of chill at the start ensures you don’t overheat later. A waterproof jacket with a hood, like the Joma Berna, cuts the rain and wind without weighing down your shoulders; it’s best to choose one with reflective strips for evening runs. Underneath, a long-sleeved technical shirt wicks away sweat, while cotton would stay soaked. Merino socks, like the Sums, keep your feet warm even when wet and limit odours, a plus for long runs on muddy paths.

Off the pavement: men's trail shoes

As soon as the route leaves the road for muddy or rocky paths, a trail shoe becomes necessary. The adidas Terrex Agravic SL, lightweight and grippy, is suitable for fast outings in nature; the Terrex Tracefinder, more accessible, supports the first outings on the trail. For long distances, the Saucony Xodus Ultra focuses on thick cushioning that preserves the legs over time. The Rossignol Vezor, from the Isère-based brand born in skiing in 1907, completes these options for mountain runners, with lugs designed for varied terrain.

Tank tops, shirts, and technical socks

Running textiles are judged by their ability to wick away sweat. The tank top, like the Hummel Pro or the adidas Adi365, frees the shoulders and ventilates during hot sessions and competitions; the short-sleeved shirt, like the adidas Adizero or the Breeze, offers more protection from the sun and friction from the hydration pack. For the feet, seamless socks at the toe prevent blisters: the adidas Climacool ventilates the foot, and the Hummel Grip incorporates sticky spots that prevent the foot from slipping in the shoe. They should be chosen in the correct size, as an oversized sock will create folds.

Frequently asked questions

What shoe size should I choose for running?

Keep a thumb's width between the big toe and the end of the shoe, as the foot swells and moves forward during effort. Many runners therefore take half a size larger than their regular shoe size, trying them on preferably at the end of the day.

Tights or trousers for running in winter?

Close-fitting tights, made of brushed fabric, keep the legs warm without chafing or catching the wind. Jogging trousers, looser, are reserved for easy runs, warming up, and cooling down.

How many pairs of running shoes do I need?

One pair is enough for running twice a week. Beyond that, alternating two pairs, one cushioned for endurance and the other lighter for speed, allows the foam to recover between runs and varies the muscle demands.

What running shoe for a heavy man?

Above ninety kilos, choose a thick cushioning and a wide, stable sole, like on the Nike Vomero or the adidas Hyperboost. Very lightweight competition models crush quickly under a heavier frame.

Do I need a tracksuit jacket for running?

A zip-up tracksuit jacket is worn during warming up and after effort, to avoid cooling down. During the run, a lighter windbreaker that breathes better and can be packed away in a pocket is preferred.