When you see this Nike Free trainer, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s principally about looking good. There is, however, some serious substance to back up the style. As the ergonomic, pared-back design suggests, it’s designed to give you the anatomical benefits of running barefoot – which research shows include stronger foot muscles and connective tissues and, by extension, a reduced risk of injury. Shoes like this work by allowing your feet to move freely, rather than being clamped in position, with a firmer and flatter sole to place your foot nearer the surface you’re running on. The Free RN is designed to be worn for low-mileage runs, but you may also find that as you get accustomed to the “barefoot” feel, you can go for longer.
Nike Free RN 5.0, £94.95,
nike.com/gb