It’s a strange time indeed for the world of athletics. What started with the restricting of the field for the 2020 Tokyo Marathon seems to have culminated in the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics, not to mention a long list of canceled races, competitions and entire sports seasons that millions of us would typically tune into.
At the same time, social isolation has spurred an uptick in activities like home fitness, yoga, running and cycling. It makes sense, now that so many of us have a bit of extra time on our hands. To that end, welcome to our new monthly column; here, we’ll round up the best new fitness gear we can find and deliver it to you every month. Here’s to April.
Tracksmith Reggie Half Tight Lined
Depending on your latitude, your relationship with April may vary. For us, it’s a tenuous one. You never know if it’ll be sunny or rainy (but can expect it to be mostly gray), and, somehow, 50 degrees can seem balmy one day and chilly the next. Sure, Tracksmith released this lined version of the Reggie a few weeks back, but now’s the perfect time to run in half tights. Also great: the rear pocket fits big smartphones.
Giro Sector
Giro’s latest mountain biking shoe, the Sector, takes notes from the footwear that appeases picky road riders. Example A is its Synchwire upper, which Giro created for roadies initially. The material has zero stitches, is considerably breathable, and is supportive enough to handle not one but two Boa adjustment dials that help you achieve a perfect fit.
Stio Icefloe
Longsleeve season may be fleeting, but thanks to Stio’s moisture-wicking Floe fabric, we anticipate extending it as long as possible. The Icefloe’s loose fit makes it perfect for pretty much anything — running, cycling, hiking, you name it.
Nike Wildhorse 6
Nike’s trail running shoes don’t generate nearly as many headlines — or controversies — as its road models. But they shouldn’t go unnoticed, particularly the updated Wildhorse, which features a grippy sole, an elastic collar that keeps out pebbles and the brand’s high-quality React foam in the midsole.
Nike SuperRep Go
Late last year, Nike revealed its plans for a line of new shoes aimed at working out. It started with the HIIT-oriented SuperRep, which came out in early 2020. That shoe’s new cousin, the SuperRep Go, is perfect for the current moment. With lightweight foam and flexible support, Nike envisioned the Go as a shoe for working out in more confined spaces, like a hotel room or, more appropriately, your living room.
Doxa Relentless Collection
If you wanted to blend in with everyone else putting in miles on your local running loop, you might opt for a classic white or gray shirt; you’d be able to pick one out from pretty much any active brand around. But if you want to stand out, check out Doxa. Its new Relentless Collection is filled with unique patterns (don’t worry, there are all-black options too).
Velocio Unity Jersey
Velocio’s 2020 Unity Jersey is the best kind of win-win. On one hand, you get a premium cycling jersey made of comfy, ultralight Italian fabric. On the other, you feel good knowing that 100 percent of the profits from this particular jersey will support these non-profits: Save the Children/No Kid Hungry, Project C.U.R.E. and The Coronavirus Relief Fund. All of them are working to address the COVID-19 outbreak.
