Top Running Shoes 2024 – In-Depth Reviews and Comparisons

Posted on January 9, 2024 at 3:50 pm.

Spring is here and we know that all you running lovers are mad to hit the road! So before you do, we’ve put together this comprehensive Running Shoe Review so you get the pair that you need.

This comprehensive review examines each contender, ensuring that whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, your next step is supported by the best.

So if you’re preparing for a marathon, the VHI Women’s Mini-Marathon or just a casual run, you will love this!

This year’s lineup has some amazing running shoes, that cater to diverse running styles and environments.

We’ve got all the big running brands included – Hoka, Nike, adidas, ON Running, ASICS and Brooks.

You might find some worth in our Running Shoe Size Guide Blog.

If not, read on for the best new running shoes on the market right now!

Runner Review Cushion Explained

So before we go through the contenders, it’s important that you are aware of your foot type.

If you already know, then skip ahead.

But if not, this 30 seconds could make a huge difference in your running.

On the Intersport Elverys website, you may notice discriptions like Neutral, Stability and Maximum Comfort. These are all to do with your pronation.

Make sure to call into select Intersport Elverys stores to aveil of our SafeSize 3D foot measuring service to find exactly what type of pronotation you have.

Below are the different types to be aware of.

2024 Running Shoe Review: Our Top Picks

Nike Structure 25

Overview: The Nike Structure 25 continues with Nike’s legacy of providing both stability and support for runners requiring a bit extra due to overpronation.

It has a sleek, attractive design, stacked with performance features and also really comfortable.

You’ll get cushion and responsiveness, making it ideal for daily runs.

Key Features:

Weight: 11 oz (312 g).
Price: €130.
Design: Features an engineered mesh upper for breathability and comfort, Dynamic Fit technology for a snug and supportive fit, and a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for responsive cushioning. The shoe also incorporates a firm foam at the arch side of the midsole for added stability.
Performance: Ideal for runners looking for a stable ride during long runs, tempo runs, and everyday training. Its design caters to those with a moderate to severe overpronation, offering the necessary support without compromising on cushioning or comfort.
Fit and Comfort: Offers a secure fit with room for natural foot movement. The Structure 25 is praised for its improved upper that contours to the foot, providing a seamless and comfortable experience throughout the run.

Pros:

Enhanced stability for overpronators.
Responsive cushioning with Zoom Air unit.
Durable outsole for varied running surfaces.

Cons:

May feel bulkier to runners used to minimalist shoes.
Some runners might find it less breathable compared to other models.

Conclusion: No matter your goals, the Structure 25 is a great all rounder.

You’ll get support and stability which doesn’t comprimise resposiveness and comfort.

If you’re an overpronator, the Structure 25 is for you.

It’s not the lightest shoe on the market, but you get excellent durability and versatility for a lot of different activities.

Brooks Glycerin 21

Overview: If absolute comfort is what you are after in a running shoe, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is a great choice.

Designed for runners who want a soft, cushioned ride, the latest version of the Glycerin is Brooks’ best yet.

It also has state-of-the-art cushioning technology and is made with premium materials, yet is also really good on the environment.

Such as being made with 59.7 % Recycled materials in the upper and 4.1 Plastic bottles diverted from landfills.

Key Features:

Weight: 10.2 oz (289 g).
Price: €180.
Design: Boasts an engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and fit, coupled with the DNA LOFT cushioning for a supremely soft and responsive ride. The 3D Fit Print technology offers structure and stretch where needed.
Performance: Excellently suited for runners who prioritise comfort over long distances. It provides a smooth transition and efficient energy return, making it versatile for various paces and distances.
Fit and Comfort: Offers a spacious toe box and a snug, secure fit around the midfoot and heel. The shoe runs true to size, delivering exceptional comfort and support, thanks to its plush interior and cushioned collar.

Pros:

Supreme comfort with DNA LOFT cushioning.
Durable with high-quality construction.
Versatile for various running distances and paces.

Cons:

High price point may not suit all budgets.
Some runners might find the shoe slightly bulky for speedwork or races.

Conclusion: The Glycerin 21 certainly stands out in this running shoe review.

It has exceptional comfort, built to be highly durable and suitable for both short and long runs.

Yes, the price is on the higher side, and if you’re after speed this is probably not your running shoe, but the investment is well worth it given the quality you are getting otherwise.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

Overview: The Gel-Nimbus series from ASICS are one of the most popular on the market.

Known for their exceptional comfort and cloud-like running feeling, it’s the go-to for neutral runners.

The improvements in this model have enhance comfort even more and upped the performance, so you get a more responsive feel without sacrificing plushness.

The most expensive running shoe in this review, you can use this as your daily trainer or a log-distance run.

Key Features:

Weight: 10.9 oz (309 g).
Price: €200.
Design: Features an updated mesh upper for improved breathability and a better fit, GEL® technology cushioning in the forefoot and rearfoot for superior shock absorption, and a FlyteFoam® Propel midsole for a more energetic return. The AHAR® outsole enhances durability and traction.
Performance: Offers a balanced ride with excellent shock absorption and responsiveness, making it suitable for long runs, recovery days, and everything in between. The improved stability is a bonus for runners with a neutral gait.
Fit and Comfort: The shoe offers a comfortable, glove-like fit, thanks to its updated upper design. It runs true to size, providing ample room in the toe box while ensuring a secure fit through the midfoot and heel.

Pros:

Superior cushioning and shock absorption.
Durable construction, suitable for high mileage.
Responsive and comfortable for various types of runs.

Cons:

The high price point may put some runners off.
Some may find it heavier than other options, potentially affecting performance in speed-focused runs.

Conclusion: The Gel-Nimbus 26 is a premium choice of running shoe that has comfort, support and performance.

There is also increased durability, which is expected given its higher price point.

If you can afford to stretch to it, you will not be disappointed with the Gel-Nimbus 26 from this running shoe review.

Hoka Arahi 7

Overview: Hoka running shoes are massively in demand these days.

They offer some of the most stylish on the market, yet are one of the most affordable.

And they punch well above their weight.

The Arahi 7 is a popular stability show for runners who like a bit more support without extra weight.

This version from Hoka has innovative J-Frame Technoloy rhat makes it excellent for long runs and quick jobs.

We expect this shoe to be massively popular.

Key Features:

Weight: 9.6 oz (272 g).
Price: €150.
Design: Features a lightweight, engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and comfort. The J-Frame™ technology provides support and stability without the use of rigid and heavy materials. The EVA midsole delivers Hoka’s signature cushioning.
Performance: Excellently suited for overpronators or runners seeking stability without sacrificing speed or comfort. The shoe offers a smooth ride with its balanced cushioning and supportive design.
Fit and Comfort: Fits true to size with a roomy toe box and a secure midfoot fit. The padded tongue and collar enhance the overall comfort, making it suitable for long-distance running.

Pros:

Lightweight design with stability features.
Comfortable and breathable upper.
Suitable for a wide range of running activities.

Cons:

May not provide enough support for runners with severe overpronation.
The design might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.

Conclusion: The Hoka Arahi 7 is perfect is you’re looking for support but don’t want to be weighed down from it either!

It’s versatile for your training runs, jogs and longer distances.

Might not be suitable for those with significant overpronation, however, more ideal for the majority of stability seekers.

For value for money, you can’t get better than this stylish all-rounder.

Nike Zoom Fly 5

Overview: The Nike Zoom Fly 5 stands as a transformative update in the Zoom Fly series, shifting from a fast workout/tempo run shoe to one that caters to

long, slower runs.

It’s noted for its increased comfort, stability, and cushioning.

We also think it’s one of the most asthetically pleasing in this running shoe review.

Key Features:

Weight: 9.5 oz (270 g).
Price: €170
Design: The Zoom Fly 5 features a full-length ZoomX core in the midsole, a more traditional upper with a detached, gusseted tongue, and a wider midsole base for extra stability.
Upper: The upper unit has been revised for better comfort and lockdown, feeling more like a daily trainer.

Pros:

Improved outsole durability.
The most stable version in the Zoom Fly series.
Softer and more comfortable than its predecessors.
Excellent upper comfort.
Increased cushioning.

Cons:

Slower than previous versions of the Zoom Fly.
The ZoomX core does not feel as bouncy as expected.

Conclusion: The Nike Zoom Fly 5 has evolved into a shoe better suited for longer runs, offering a softer and more cushioned midsole.

However, it’s noted for a lack of bounce and energy return, making it less suitable for speed work or uptempo runs.

The shoe offers stable and protective padding for long distances but falls short in responsiveness and agility compared to other options in the same category.

However, it’s still a great all-rounder and everyday shoe for you busy people.

Adidas Adizero Boston 12

Overview: The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 has evolved to feel more like a daily trainer than a speed trainer.

It features a softer ride and more flexible Energyrods, making it less rockered than previous versions. And we have to say, it looks really, really cool.

Key Features:

Weight: 9.4 oz (266 g).
Price: €160.
Design: Updated midsole with Lightstrike Pro foam and glass-fibre energy rods, softer and more flexible forefoot.
Upper: Lighter and more flexible than previous version, but less comfortable.

Pros:

Softer and more stable ride.
Sleeker design.
Weight reduction.

Cons:

Less rockered.
Less akin to the ride of the Adios Pro.

Conclusion: The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is best suited as a durable daily trainer for those easy runs.

While it provides a softer ride and is lighter compared to its predecessor, it leans more towards being a daily trainer than a workout shoe or speed trainer.

The durable outsole, featuring Continental rubber, is a standout feature for its longevity, so you will get a good healthy lifespan out of it.

However, it may not be the top choice for runners seeking a shoe similar to the Adios Pro 3 or a more energetic, light speed trainer.

Brooks Ghost Max

Overview: The Brooks Ghost Max is a well-rounded daily trainer offering a balanced ride with good stability.

As a spinoff of the regular Ghost series, which has proven hugey popular with Intersport Elverys customers, it offers a softer, more cushioned, and lively ride compared to the Ghost 15, making it a good choice for various runs.

Plus, it looks really cool too!

Key Features:

Weight: 10 oz (283 g).
Price: €160
Design: Higher stack height, softer cushioning with DNA Loft v2 foam, and a stable, wide base.
Upper: Comfortable fit, true to size, but laces may fray easily.

Pros:

Comfortable, luxurious upper.
Softer and more cushioned than the regular Ghost.
More forefoot cushioning.
Modern and stable ride.

Cons:

Lower than average outsole durability.
Laces prone to fraying.

Conclusion: The Brooks Ghost Max emerges as a more modern and engaging version of the traditional Ghost.

It’s suitable for a variety of runs, offering a balance between softness for easy runs and firmness for uptempo paces. However, it may not be as stable as the regular Ghost due to its firmer midsole and more lean bias.

The Ghost Max is ideal for those who found the Ghost 15 too firm but might not appeal to Ghost loyalists who prefer its consistent firmness and stability. The Ghost 15 was one of the best all-rounders we’ve ever had and this is picking up where it left off.

ASICS Novablast 4

Overview: This shoe is designed with energy return in mind, and ASICS have spent hours testing it at their Institute of Sports Science (ISS) in Japan.

The NOVABLAST™ 4 is characterised as a firm-riding daily trainer, leaning more towards faster-paced runs.

Compared to its predecessors, it offers increased stability but sacrifices some of the signature bounciness that Novablast shoes were known for. But that might suit a lot of you die-hard ASICS fans!

Key Features:

Weight: 9 oz (255 g).
Price: €150
Design: New FF Blast+ Eco midsole for better stability, modern upper design.
Performance: Suited more for uptempo runs due to its firmer ride.

Pros:

Better stability with firmer midsole.
More comfortable and cooler upper.
Faster ride compared to previous versions.

Cons:

Less bouncy and fun than earlier Novablast models.
Increase in weight.
Firmer ride, which might not be suitable for all runners.

Conclusion: The ASICS Novablast 4 marks a shift in the series, moving away from the playful and bouncy characteristics towards a more stable, but firmer ride.

This change might appeal to runners looking for a firmer, more responsive trainer but may disappoint those who enjoyed the distinctive bouncy feel of the earlier versions.

While its design remains sleek and modern, the Novablast 4’s firmer direction has altered its overall appeal and versatility. Plus, there’s a variety of colours to choose from.

ON Cloudflow 4

Overview: The ON Cloudflow 4.0 is an evolution of its predecessor, designed as a lightweight training/performance shoe with a versatile and low-profile build.

It excels in stability and responsiveness, making it a standout option among the lightest daily trainers available.

ON Running shoes really make you stand out from the crowd the Cloudflow 4 will do just that too.

Key Features:

Weight: The shoe is impressively light, weighing 8.7 oz (247 g)
Price: €170.
Design: It features a new engineered woven upper for breathability and a new dual density Helion midsole with a spoon-shaped speedboard. The shoe also has a new outsole with a closed channel to prevent stone trapping.
Performance: Classified as a lightweight training shoe, it offers firm and responsive cushioning. The shoe is designed with a Rocker geometry around the forefoot area, enhancing forward momentum. Suitable for various paces and distances, it’s particularly effective for interval training speeds.

Pros:

Comfort and Fit: Fits true to size with a medium width, accommodating average-sized feet. The upper is breathable, flexible, and roomy, providing comfort during runs.
Performance Enhancing: The rocker geometry combined with the new speedboard aids in smooth transition and forward movement. It’s excellent for tempo training and offers an enjoyable rolling momentum.
Sustainability: ON incorporates sustainably made, recycled materials into the shoe, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Cons:

Price: Some may find it expensive relative to the features provided.
Cushioning: The foam may be excessively firm for some runners, particularly those who prefer a softer, more cloud-like feel.
Narrow Fit: The midfoot fit is somewhat narrow, potentially making it less suitable for those with wider feet.

Conclusion: The ON Cloudflow 4 is a high-performance, moderately cushioned running shoe that shines in tempo training. Its innovative design, including the rockered forefoot and lightweight, breathable upper, offers a unique running experience.

While its firm cushioning and price point may not appeal to everyone, its stability, durability, and unique rolling momentum make it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and versatile training shoe.

It is particularly recommended for fans of the ON brand looking for a daily trainer suitable for various paces and distances, as well as for those seeking an environmentally conscious option.

Conclusion

The 2024 running shoe lineup brings forth an array of options that excel in durability, comfort, and technology from Intersport Elverys.

We love our running and we’re committed to bringing you the best Running Shoe Review you can get.

So we hope you enjoyed this blog and all your running for 2024.

Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Running Blog.

Remember, the perfect running shoe not only complements your stride but also enhances your journey towards personal bests and beyond

Don’t forget about other important pieces of equipment you might need too.

Our Guide to Finding the Right Sports Bra and our Guide to Finding the Right Leggings is sure to help.

Enjoy the run, we’re with you every step of the way.

VHI Womens Mini Marathon 2023

Posted on April 8, 2022 at 9:25 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

Intersport Elverys is delighted to partner with the VHI Womens Mini Marathon for 2023.

For the last 19 years we have been offering unique product, advice and benefits to marathon participants.

We absolutely love sport! From grassroots all the way to the very elite, supporting Irish athletes and sporting organisations dates back to our very origins and is part of our ethos.

We’re one of the biggest supporters of Irish sport in the country and we’re at the heart of sport.

During your mini marathon journey make sure to check out our socials and blog for advice, competitions and more.

For all your running and sporting needs make sure to visit your local Intersport Elverys store or explore our range on Elverys.ie

Between now and the big race day, we will be giving you tips and advice on how to get yourself ready and on the road to the VHI Womens Mini Marathon.

Below, we have some really important advice from chartered physio Michelle Lyons, while we’ve also gone to the trouble of picking out some of the best running shoes, leggings and sports bras for you.

VHI Womens Mini Marathon: How to Be your Best

Chartered physiotherapist Michelle Lyons talks to us about how to be at your best for the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon and how to ensure your training continues smoothly!

“By now, hopefully your training is well underway as June is only around the corner!

“I’ve worked with lots of female athletes (both professional and beginners) and there are often a couple of niggly problems like back pain or a bit of leaking when you run….that may be holding you back.

“Often it can be an issue with your pelvic floor – did you know that 1 in 3 women have some sort of pelvic floor problem? But don’t panic, there’s a solution!

“Your pelvic floor muscles run like a sling from the front of your pelvis to your tailbone and they have a number of jobs, like giving you control over your bladder and bowel and keeping your pelvic organs where they are supposed to be.

“But they are also really important when it comes to preventing low back pain, as they provide stability for the joints of your lower back and pelvis.

“The muscles can become stressed during pregnancy and childbirth or if you have chronic constipation, which can lead to problems with low back pain, some leaking from the bladder or bowel or even a dragging feeling as if things are moving down and out.

“For many women, leaking when they run is a very common problem. I say common, but it’s really important to remember that leaking is NEVER normal and there is almost always something that can be done about it!

“Probably the best way to address the issue is to check in with a women’s health physio who also works with athletes; she will be able to not only help you address your pelvic floor issues but also look at your running form.

“Remember: most women don’t need pelvic floor strengthening (no more kegels!) but they do need to re-learn coordination of the pelvic floor with the breath.

“In the meantime, here are some tips to help you get started”

VHI Womens Mini Marathon Tips

Know your floor!

“Your pelvic floor muscles do a number of jobs, including controlling bladder and bowel function.

“Find your pelvic floor by taking a deep breath in, and as you exhale, relaxing all the muscles in and around your pelvis.

“Take another breath in, and this time as you exhale, close your anus and lift up and in, (as if you were trying to stop gas escaping) Count to 5 out loud (to make sure you’re not holding your breath.

“Then (this is the most important part!) fully relax your pelvic floor.

“Congratulations! You just found and activated your pelvic floor muscles!”

Coordinate with your breath.

“Now that you know where the muscles are, practice coordinating with the breath. This will give you more stability during your run and may help with your endurance.

“Take a breath in and feel how both you lower tummy expands a little and your pelvic floor drops a little.

“As you exhale, your tummy should gently move back in by itself and your pelvic floor rises a little.

“This cycle should happen with every breath but if you are worried about leaking, you may not be fully relaxing the pelvic floor, which might be making the problem worse!

“Try this exercise standing, sitting or lying still, and as you get the hang of it, try to incorporate the breath and pelvic floor muscles into your running.”

Watch your alignment.

“Keeping your ribcage over your pelvis when you run can help manage the pressures of running on your pelvic floor.

“Wearing supportive clothing like a good sports bra and EVB shorts can really help improve both form and function when you run in my experience.

“If you are worried about leaking or painful breasts when you are running, that can actually make the problem worse by causing extra tension in the body and can lead to other mechanical problems or injuries.

“Set yourself up for success and enjoy your run!”

VHI Womens Mini Marathon Running Shoes

A good set of running shoes are going to be absolutely crucial for this event.

So check out our Top 5 Runner Review Blog ahead of the race or click on the link below.

VHI Womens Mini Marathon Sports Bras

As Michelle mentioned, a good quality sports bra will make life much more comfortable.

We have more advice in our Guide to Finding a Sports Bra blog or click on the link below.

VHI Womens Mini Marathon Leggings

Leggings will make you feel good and look good, so what’s not to like.

We’ve compiled our Guide to Finding the Right Leggings for you, or check out our full range below.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this blog and found it helpful ahead of the big race.

We’re proud sponsors of the VHI Womens Mini Marathon and we can’t wait.

Find The Right Sports Bra: Size Guide

Posted on March 24, 2022 at 12:13 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

For active people, your sports bra is one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll own – so this sports bra size guide is sure to help you.

Especially if you’re entering the 2024 VHI Women’s Mini Marathon, whom Intersport Elverys are proud sponsors for 20 years now.

Even if you’re not entering it and are just a casual or serious sports person, this should be seen as an important investment in comfort and support.

Look at the care and precision we put into choosing our running shoes; the same level of scrutiny and detail should be put into the choice of sports bra.

Just like you do with your leggings too, which we have prepared this Leggings Size Guide BLOG for.

It’s estimated that 80% of women are wearing the wrong type/size of sports bras which can result in breast pain, soft tissue damage, chafing among other issues.

Choosing the right sports bra is essential for women of any size, shape or activity level. It’s important to make sure you have adequate support so you can lead an active lifestyle without unnecessary discomfort.

Read below or find our latest blog on this topic HERE

	SUPPORT
	Low	Medium	High
Activity	Walking	Road Cycling	Running
	Yoga	Hiking	Aerobics
	Light gym work	Active gym work	Contact sports

Sports Bra Size Guide: Support

Light Support Bras

Usually, low energy activities will consist of little sweat.

Activities such as walking, yoga, or stretching would be considered low energy. For these workouts, you won’t need as much support as high energy exercises.

Choose lightweight sports bras with narrower straps and bands. An adjustable strap is not necessary for support during low energy workouts.

Medium Support Bras

These workout activities will be in between low and high energy, like gym sessions or cycling.

Just like the energy level, you’ll need a medium support sports bra to accommodate your body.

Unlike low-energy workouts, you’ll need a wider strap, and since you’ll be breaking a sweat, you need a bra that restricts breast movement more than low-support bras.

High Support Bras

Any high intensity activity, like running, will require a high support sports bra, as your body will constantly be in motion and you’ll need to make sure everything stays comfortably in place.

Find high support sports bras with wide bands and adjustable shoulder straps to adjust while you’re working out or after.

What size should I choose?

You should stick to the size that you wear in a standard bra (once you’re confident you have been fitted/measured properly). Various brands will offer size conversions either on in-store signage or on the product packaging.

Sports Bra Size Guide: Features

Band

The main source of support comes from the band, which forms the foundation of a sports bra. The band should be snug around your rib cage, but comfortable. If it feels too tight, it is.

If you can fit two fingers between your body and the band (but not more) that’s the sign of a good fit.

Shoulder straps should feel secure and provide minimal stretch to reduce up-and-down movement.

Straps that fit properly should not slip, and they should also not dig into your skin.

Adjustable straps allow you to fully customise the fit of your bra.

Closure

Some bras are pulled on over your head, some have a back closure with hooks.

Bras with back closure are easier to get on and off, and gives another option to further adjust/customise the fit.

Underwire

The benefit of underwire in a sports bra is that it supports each breast individually and can help to minimize movement.

Wicking fabrics move moisture away from your skin and keep you comfortable.

The more supportive a sports bra is, the less effective it will be at wicking away moisture because of its sturdier fabric and construction. Look out for moisture-wicking technologies.

Strap Types

Please note, thin straps are generally easier to hide, however wider straps offer more/better support.

Tank top: This style is most similar to a “normal” bra. The straps are often adjustable so you can customise the fit.

Criss-cross: These straps cross over each other and usually provide good support. The straps are often adjustable so you customise the fit.

Racerback: Sports bras with a racerback have shoulder straps that come together between your shoulder blades to create a Y-shape. This style is more suited for medium- to high-impact activities, but they are typically not adjustable.

Conclusion

It’s recommended that you re-assess/update your sports bra every 6 months to 12 months as over time the fibers, elastic and other components weaken, which compromises support.

More even more content that could benefit the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon in 2022, check out our Running Shoe Size Guide.

Shop our entire range of sports bras HERE

How To Find The Best Leggings: Size Guide

Posted on March 24, 2022 at 11:30 am.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Love them or hate them, sports leggings are a staple in the wardrobe of any active person – so having a leggings size guide is super helpful.

This year Intersport Elverys is delighted to partner the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon for 2022 and like the last 18 years, we;re committed to offering the best advice and the leading products to all participants.

So whether you’re going to run, walk or jog the marathon.

Or if you’re not taking part at all and are just committed to a sport, training for your own fitness journey or simply wanting to look good, feel good and perform good, then this guide will help you.

Because we know leggings aren’t all about sporting performance, they are a great way of expressing your personality thanks to all the unique styles.

Leggings Size Guide: Where do I start looking?

There are a few things to consider when trying to find a great pair of sports leggings.

Don’t forget, every sport and every body has its own individual needs, so deciding on a few main factors before you start your search will help pin down the perfect leggings for you.

Choosing the best leggings for your sport

If you’re dedicated to one sport and looking to invest in the perfect pair of leggings to improve performance, our quick guide will point you in the right direction.

Running leggings

Many running leggings offer higher compression, designed to help reduce muscle fatigue and speed up recovery.

They usually use temperature-regulating fabric technologies and tend to have a lower waist band to avoid any chafing.

The Nike Dri-Fit Fast Leggings in Black are great.

Gym leggings

Generally speaking, training leggings tend to offer medium compression and have a higher waist band to support controlled movements.

For high impact training like HIIT, seamless high waisted gym leggings will provide great support and ensure comfort throughout your workout.

Try the Puma Logo Eversculpt Women’s Training High-Wasted 7/8 Tights are a great option.

Yoga leggings

Yoga leggings tend to have a lighter compression, wider waist bands and fabric that allows for maximum stretch so you can easily slide from downward-facing dog to baby cobra.

They can come in tight and flared styles, with features like drawstring waists.

The new and amazing Casall Seamless High Waist Yoga Tights are amazing.

Will you be committed to one type of training, or are you more of a jack of all sports?

This decision will help determine your first step on the treadmill to finding the best leggings for you.

Consider your own style – do you want colourful or black gym leggings?

The cherry on top of the best gym leggings is of course style.

Modern gym and yoga leggings come in a myriad of colours and styles, from solid prints to mesh panelling.

If you’re not sure what to go for, black gym leggings are a fail-safe option that slim and streamline every body shape. Hone in on your favourite shades to wear and take it from there.

We’ve got leggings like the Puma Flawless High Waist in pink or the Nike Yoga Dri-Fit in blue as well as a big array of black leggings.

Leggings Size Guide: Choose your rise

Where the waist of your leggings sits is just as important as your leg length:

• Low rise sports leggings: Low rise gym leggings sit well below the waist, across the middle of the hips.

• Mid rise sports leggings: Mid rise leggings usually sit somewhere between the belly button and the top of the hips.

• High rise sports leggings: High waisted gym leggings sit at the belly button or slightly above it.

The waist of your leggings will be determined by how much support you want, as well as the kind of look you’re going for.

High waisted gym leggings provide the most support and will help streamline any wobbly bits in the tummy area.

The Nike Pro Mid-Rise above are proving very popular.

Low-rise gym leggings, in contrast, provide virtually no tummy support, but can be much more comfortable for those that don’t like feeling constricted. They’re particularly great for running, as they won’t chafe your midriff.

Unsurprisingly, mid rise leggings are a great middle ground, and the best bet if you’re really not sure which fit you’ll find most comfortable.

Leggings Size Guide: Choose your leg

There are a few different lengths to choose from for your gym leggings:

• Full length leggings: These gym leggings cover the entire leg, ending just under the ankle.

• 7/8 leggings: Very slightly cropped, 7/8 leggings cover most of the leg, ending just above the ankle.

• Capri leggings: Capri leggings end just below the knee, covering the entire upper thigh.

A great place to start when choosing leg length is by examining your workout environment.

Outdoor workouts like running will often benefit from full length gym leggings to keep you warm throughout the seasons, whereas something indoors and sweat-inducing like HIIT will be more comfortable in capri leggings.

7/8 leggings are great all-rounders for all sports and environments.

Leggings Size Guide: Consider material

Leggings or pants made for sport will offer breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry, which is what sets them apart from the everyday leggings you might use as loungewear.

When it comes to leggings, fit is everything.

Whatever the workout, you want to be able to give it every ounce of your energy and attention; you definitely do not want flapping legs or sagging waistbands ruining your performance.

A well-fitted pair of leggings can go beyond the gym, too – you might find you’re so comfortable in them, you just can’t take them off!

High compression vs low compression gym leggings

The compression level of your leggings is the biggest contributing factor to how supportive they’ll be.

Compression basically refers to how thick and tight gym leggings are, so they usually come in high compression or low compression options.

High compression gym leggings are thicker, tighter and generally best suited for sports with a lot of movement, like running, pilates or HIIT, as they don’t tend to shift as you move.

High compression leggings can also be used for lower impact sports like yoga, but if you find a looser fit more comfortable, low compression works well too.

When choosing low compression, go for a sports leggings with a drawstring waistband to avoid any sagging or twisting while you work out.

Leggings Size Guide FAQs

Can you run in normal leggings?

Running in normal leggings isn’t advised, as they don’t offer the same support and benefits as running leggings and can cause chafing and other discomforts.

Running leggings are made from specially designed fabric that wicks sweat away from the body and allows skin to breathe during long runs, which will help keep your body at a comfortable temperature and avoid chafing.

Running leggings are also usually made of high compression fabrics to provide maximum support.

Should I wash my gym clothes everyday?

Yes, it’s best to wash gym clothes after each use. Your gym leggings are constantly absorbing sweat while you work out, so can harbour all sorts of bacteria and other nasties.

If you need to deep clean a pair of sports leggings after a particularly hot and sweaty session, try adding some anti-bacterial detergent to your normal washing detergent and wash your leggings on the highest temperature setting stated on the care label.

How tight should gym leggings be?

This really depends on what you want to use them for.

Yoga benefits from lightweight, low compression leggings to allow for bending and stretching, whereas high impact training and running will be much more comfortable in tighter, high compression leggings that give you the best support possible.

As a rule of thumb, if your leggings are too tight on the waist and causing bulging, size up. If they’re saggy at the crotch, size down.

Why do my leggings roll down at the waist?

This can happen for a few different reasons.

First, your leggings could simply be the wrong size. If your leggings are a little loose all over, then sizing down should fix your problem.

Your leggings might also sag if they’re not the right fit for your body shape. Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, so finding a pair of gym leggings to fit waists, bums and tums can take some trial and error.

Try out different rises to see which one prevents your leggings falling down at the waist.

Finally, it could simply be that the elastic has worn out in your leggings. Invest in a new pair, and make sure to follow the care instructions to the letter to make sure they last as long as possible.

Conclusion

No matter what you wear, the most important thing is staying active, and feeling comfortable doing so.

To help stay motivated, connect with us on social media where we’ll offer daily advice and content to support your workouts at home.

Intersport Elverys is one of the biggest supporters of Irish sport in the country and we’re at the heart of sport.

Make sure to check out our amazing full range of leggings below.

Intersport Elverys: Supporting Irish Athletes & Team Sports

Posted on July 13, 2021 at 3:28 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

AT Intersport Elverys, we absolutely love our sport and pride ourselves on supporting Irish athletes at all levels to fully maximise their potential.

From grassroots sport all the way to the very elite, supporting Irish athletes and sporting organisations dates back to our very origins and is part of our ethos.

We’re one of the biggest supporters of Irish sport in the country – and we’re at the heart of sport!

Below are some of the athletes and sporting organisations who we are proudly working with and supporting.

IRFU

Intersport Elverys is supporting Irish rugby for many years, including sponsors of the men’s and women’s 7s teams and now the Official Sports Retail Partner.

We stock a huge range of Official Ireland Rugby gear for the player and the fan (supporter) in all stores and online as well as bringing unique and exciting experiences to the Ireland Rugby supporter across our social channels.

FAI Football Camps

We love Irish football and we’re extremely proud to be the proud sponsors of the hugely popular FAI Summer Soccer Schools, which proved a massive hit with young boys and girls across the country again this year.

Mayo GAA/Mayo LGFA

As a Mayo brand, we’re massively honoured to be sponsoring Mayo GAA since the 1990s and continue to be the title sponsor of the various teams across all codes.

As Official Retail Partner, we stock a huge range of Mayo GAA gear for the player and supporter in stores around the country and online, as well as bringing unique and exciting experiences to the many proud Mayo GAA fans.

Dublin GAA

As Official Retail Partner of Dublin GAA, we stock a great range of Dublin GAA gear for the player and the supporter in stores around the country and online.

Love the Dubs’, love Intersport Elverys.

Tipperary GAA

As Official Retail Partner of the Premier County, as well as operating the official Tipperary GAA store in Thurles and online, we love bringing exciting experiences to the Tipperary GAA supporters.

We’ve been there through the good days and the bad and have enjoyed every minute.

Lovely hurlin’.

Connacht Rugby

Our relationship with Connacht Rugby dates back nearly 20 years and we were delighted to be named as Official Sports Retail Partner back in 2015/16 after being a previous sponsor.

Rianna Jarrett

Republic of Ireland star Rianna Jarrett and Intersport Elverys share common goals and vision – we’re deeply rooted in sports performance and we’re always striving to be number one.

The Wexford born star has just finished up a spell with WSL outfit Brighton and Hove Albion and no matter where she chooses to ply here trade next, we’ll be there right beside here.