Going for a run? We checked what you need and how much it will cost

Today it can no longer be called a trend. What used to be the property of only the anarchists who opposed mass running on the road and insisted on plowing the paths of the mountains and deserts, became the love of the general public. Cross-country running is an existing fact and you don't have to break your head to look for the right routes.

The mostly pleasant and shady climate, the separation from the hustle and bustle, the changing route under each step and the level of interest that arises every time a small stream peeks out of nowhere or a curious wild animal, make the forests and deserts in Israel incredibly crowded with runners and walkers. However, in order to take advantage of the maximum pleasure from a cross-country or desert run, you must first prepare accordingly.

This means protecting yourself from injuries and mishaps along the way, wearing the right shoes, wearing the wicking clothes and carrying the water and food on you with maximum comfort. Years ago these were our all-purpose trainers. But since then a lot of sand has gone into socks and clothing and footwear manufacturers have adapted the soles and the weight of the shoe to almost every type of soil.

In preparation for the desert marathon in Eilat, which will take place on November 27, we decided to review for you the leading running shoes on the market today and, of course, the running accessories. Ready to go?

Running shoes

Before purchasing cross-country running shoes, there are a few things to consider. First, getting to know the nature of the terrain you intend to run on. Is it fine sandy soil, sea sand, gravel soil or is it rocky surfaces that require increased grip. After analyzing the area, pay attention to the level of sealing, the weight of the shoe, the durability and, of course, the comfort. The shoes that appear in this article were tested by experienced runners, mostly marathoners, who were used as shoes in long cross-country runs. The experimenters referred to a number of fixed criteria and gave their opinion also regarding the shortcomings of the shoe and without being aware of the price ranges. The results are in front of you.

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 3

Manufacturer's word: Men's outdoor shoe that provides light weight support and maximum grip. The shoe comes with a mesh upper and dynamic technology and includes a cushioned midsole and a woven outsole that allow for shock absorption and excellent terrain grip. The experimenter's words: "A shoe that combines lightness with adaptation for fast or long runs on light surfaces.

You can run with it comfortably even on asphalt, but when running on a wet road, its grip loosened a little. During the soft step it is high and relative to outdoor shoes it is not massive. It sits like a sock on the foot (goes on like a house shoe with one side of the tongue sewn to the body of the shoe) and already on the first run felt great. Also, her toe box (tow box) is high." Disadvantage: less suitable for running on hard surfaces. Price: NIS 749.90. Available at brand stores and select sports stores.

Adidas Supernova Glide Boost 7 atr

The manufacturer's statement: Adidas' best-selling shoe that provides exceptional softness that wraps around the foot and provides stability and comfort. The "Boost" technology guarantees maximum energy return with every step, softness and shock absorption. The upper part of the shoe adapts and adjusts itself to different foot shapes. The outer part of the sole is made of rubber that ensures a firm grip on the ground. Special attention is also given to the new model for men, which includes a lightweight cover layer in the middle and front of the shoe to ensure a higher fit to the foot.

The experimenter's opinion: a neutral shoe that has been adapted for outdoor running on dirt and light gravel surfaces and includes Adidas' successful foam sole, which also works great in the field. The shoe is well cushioned and does not feel the bumps in the ground, in addition there was no problem to increase speed without losing the grip.

After several runs for a cumulative distance of more than 100 km, it is evident that the shoe remains strong and has not lost its original shape. The level of comfort remains high even after long runs and the shock absorption remains the same as in the first run. Disadvantage: "The shoe is indeed sealed against the entry of water and sand, but this burdens She was able to breathe and ventilate her foot."

Price: NIS 599. Available at the brand store and select stores.

Brooks Men's PureGrit 4

The manufacturer's statement: a lightweight and flexible trail shoe that is equipped with a dedicated lug sole to increase traction in the field. The durability of the shoe is high and it is made of light materials. Their running range is high and amounts to 250 to 300 km. The experimenter's comment: "The shoe is extremely light even compared to road shoes and their uniqueness lies in the fact that although they are not massive, they have an almost perfect terrain grip. Her flexibility is reflected in every teacher or milestone. They have an inner sole that increases the grip of the foot and the space inside the shoe. Disadvantage: This is a relatively light and soft shoe that is not suitable for hard surfaces and its shock absorption is a little lacking when landing on rocks."

Price: about NIS 480. Available in brand stores only.

Brooks Cascadia 10 women

Manufacturer's statement: Cascadia 10 for women, the new running shoes in the Cascadia series, are all built for running in the field and are defined as a "workhorse". At the same time, they provide optimal flexibility and comfort to the feet, allowing for prolonged use. Tester's words: "We tested a model with an inward collapse repair. The shoe not only looks good, it is versatile and comfortable from the first moment (despite a little stiffness in the first runs). As the manufacturer promises, the shoes are indeed designed for hard work and are very durable. They are very comfortable to run in and they fit Both for grass in the park and for ultra-running in deserts. The shoe provides protection for the foot that is also suitable for difficult types of terrain. The foot is held well inside the shoe and the feeling when running is very safe, among other things due to a new lacing system that holds the foot excellently and also because of the structure of the sole that produces an effective grip on the ground." Disadvantage: Stiffness was felt in the first runs and its weight is relatively heavy.

Price: NIS 585. Available at the manufacturer's stores.

Leadville MT1210 New Balance

Manufacturer's statement: New Balance's flagship shoe for cross-country running and ultra-marathon, named after the LEADVILLE 100 race. The shoe is equipped with a professional VIBRAM sole and high-quality shock absorbers built to provide a response and strong cross-country grip on any running route. The experimenter's words: "New Balance has a place of honor in the production of advanced outdoor shoes. In recent years, it has developed several successful models in the field of minimal running, but in this case, it actually went back to the roots. The shoe does provide shock absorbers at a very high level, almost without feeling the surface underneath and definitely gives a feeling Stability in variable terrain. The shoe wraps and hugs the foot with a good and relatively high grip to prevent injuries. Also, its weight may be deceiving: it is very light but completely massive and feels well on the foot." Disadvantage: the shock absorbers are too strong and the sole area is wide. The shoe is not suitable for minimal runners.

Price: NIS 1,099, available at select sports stores

INOV TERRACLAN 8

The manufacturer's statement: a track and field shoe with a sole that is suitable for running on paths, hills and rocks. The carbon rubber provides excellent grip and the X-LACK layer keeps the foot stable. The experimenter's comment: "The British manufacturer has delivered its best outdoor shoe so far. In Israel, it is not that common yet, but it is only a matter of time until the big jump comes. The weight of the shoe is not particularly low, but its grip was a pleasant surprise. In appearance and in touch At first it looks hard and rough, but already after the first run in the field it proved its flexibility. In addition, the shoe is sealed against the entry of water and sand. Their toe space was also ideal. It is ventilated to the right extent and it was impossible not to notice their ability to tread even on hard surfaces." Disadvantage: "The shoe is less suitable for hard surfaces and the inner sole was a little high, but this is a personal matter."

Price: NIS 599. Get it at the importer's store, Pro-Runner - Kinneret 13 Bnei Brak

Under Armor SpeedForm XC

The manufacturer's statement: an extremely light shoe weighing 214 grams that wraps the foot in a perfect anatomical fit. The technology allows for minimal distractions during running or training, without compromising maximum support for the foot, as well as evaporation of moisture inside the sole, which returns the energy to the foot in an incomparable way and enables soft landings and powerful jumps. Another technology is the use of foam that allows a better grip on the ground and enables high stability.

Tester's note: An off-road shoe that was produced as a direct and successful continuation of the SpeedForm Apollo road shoe. This is an excellent shoe that won many awards and for good reason. First, her appearance captivates with its beauty and attracts attention from the very first moment. Secondly, this is a shoe that really sits like a comfortable glove on the foot and behaves naturally with every step.

Its low weight and flexibility characterize the off-road shoes but leave no room for doubt: this is a classic trail shoe that can definitely go on the road and feel natural on the asphalt surface as well. Disadvantage: not intended for difficult terrains, in the first runs the feeling of stability is lost but then it gets fixed again.

Price: NIS 720, available at the Get Pro network and the sports networks

TRAIL ROC 245

Manufacturer's statement: Another shoe from INOV 8, this time for women who train on hard surfaces. The shoe provides three layers to improve grip and durability. The experimenter's words: "From the first glance, you can say that this is a minimalist shoe that is not suitable for everyone. Fans of the minimalism trend will find this shoe almost perfect: it is strong, it is durable, it is fast and is exactly suitable for running on the front part of the foot and not on the heel. This is evidenced Find in addition the protection that is found in the inner sole for the toe area. In addition to all these, this is a beautiful shoe that is suitable for running on soft ground. Disadvantage: Those who are not used to running on the forefoot may suffer from reduced shock absorption.

Price: NIS 525. Available at the importer's store, Pro-Runner Kinneret 13 Bnei Brak Which shoe will you take with you to the desert marathon?

ASICS GEL-FUJI TRABUCO 4

Manufacturer's statement: lightweight and extremely comfortable shoes with back gel for shock absorption. The SpEVA sole provides springiness and a smooth transition to the next step, plus lugs for running in off-road conditions and maintaining foot stability. The shoe has a removable EVA pad that allows changing to a personal insole when necessary, reflective material to increase visibility at night, a high-density material that reduces the friction of the sole with the ground and preserves the longevity of the sole, protects the foot and protects it from stones or branches.

The experimenter's comment: "The shoes look very good and feel great from the first step. They can definitely be called strong and excellent ground grip was recorded on the uppers, downhill and on wet grass and even on asphalt. The ankle grip was also comfortable and strong and the sole showed flexibility and stiffness." Disadvantage: the laces slip a little and the weight of the shoes is high compared to other outdoor shoes.

Price: NIS 899. Available at Originals stores

Asics GEL- SONOMA - women

Manufacturer's statement: The shoe is equipped with a TRUSSTIC SYSTEM, a system in the center of the foot that provides control and stability and reduces the weight of the shoe. Also, in a shock absorption system unique to Asics with gel technology found in the back of the shoe and durable for a long time and in AHAR, a hard rubber located along the sole that provides durability and protection against abrasion and rubbing of the sole.

The experimenter's words: "As someone who is used to long road runs, the transition to running in an Asics shoe was simple, partly because it is a relatively light and flexible shoe in which the foot feels free and flowing. The range of motion is wide from the heel to the toes, and the ground grip was good even in muddy areas. Its design is beautiful and it fits Also for those working out in the gym."Disadvantage: the shoe is not waterproof and water penetrated into the sock during the run, the reason for this is probably the desire to maintain a low weight and agility in performance.

Price: NIS 599, available in the Originals network

Sacconi NOMAD TR

The manufacturer's statement: a durable shoe designed for running on light surfaces while providing full protection of the foot surface and full flexibility. The sole designed in the shape of hexagons is designed to provide stability even on rough ground. The front part of the shoe is made of a flexible rubber compound that gives a sock feeling when locked. The experimenter's words: "The first thing you notice about a Sacconi shoe is that it is a shoe that looks very light compared to a typical off-road shoe and you could easily run with it on the road as well, but after putting it on you realize that it is a classic off-road shoe. Its zigzag sole and the fact that it is a shoe that is sealed against the entry of dust, sand and water, Turn her in immediately.

On the first run it felt strange, due to its arched internal structure and high insole, but the feeling disappeared on subsequent runs after the foot got used to the new position. Over time, running with her on the paths was comfortable and almost none of the teacher is noticeable except for protruding rocks."Disadvantage: the shoe is completely sealed and after an hour of running, the feet got warm and needed ventilation, which did not come.

Price: NIS 599, available at brand stores.

Montreal FluidFlex 2

Manufacturer's word: A shoe that can handle the most difficult field conditions. The outer sole allows you to pass through wet or muddy surfaces easily. For those who suffer from pronation (collapse of the foot inward), the shoe offers additional support in the inner sole. The experimenter's words: "The ultimate off-road shoe. First, its design captivates from the first moment and is hard to ignore. Second, it is well made, rigid and resistant to all types of surfaces, even rocky surfaces. During the first runs, the stiffness seems to require some time to adapt, but when it does, it is a comfortable shoe Especially. Another advantage of them is the fastening mechanism that is easy to operate and does not open during the run."

Disadvantage: some may say that its weight is too high, but this is not a very critical issue.

Price: NIS 799, available at select sports stores.

Montrail - Fluidfeel III

The manufacturer's statement: A professional shoe for cross-country running, extremely lightweight and ventilated, suitable for a variety of surfaces from rocky roads to grass and dirt, providing comfort with excellent support and shock absorption, a winning combination of speed and safety." The experimenter's statement: "First, the exterior appearance is clean and without sophistication, Even for a color blind person like me. The shoe fits the foot like a glove. There is room for the toes, there is no pressure on any area of the foot and there is also enough room for thick socks. The Montrail FluidFlex 2 felt great running on road and pavement but off-road it is a celebration of good support on side slopes and excellent grip on descents and ascents.

In other words, you grind the surface gracefully. It should be noted that the shoe is not protected against water, when running on the edge of a wet field moisture penetrated, but the shoe is ventilated enough and you don't get the feeling as if you are running in a soaked sock." Disadvantage: less suitable for running on rocks, not protected against moisture or wetness.

Price: NIS 729, available at Columbia, Outsider and Shebil Israel.

Reebok Pump

The manufacturer's statement: a road shoe that is also suitable for off-road thanks to the innovative design of the sole, which imitates the natural movement of the foot and keeps the foot close to the ground. The experimenter's words: "Already at first glance, you can say that this is a particularly strong shoe that "comes to work". It is not overly designed, but it is very functional and works well on soft surfaces. It can easily be used as a gym shoe, but only on the first run do you realize how much it is designed to plow the The ground. Unlike other off-road shoes, its sole is not equipped with lugs, but even without them, its grip is good enough. Another advantage is that it is suitable for a shoe that is also suitable for the road, it is agile and fast if the route allows it."

Disadvantage: A versatile shoe, but think twice before you go running with it in the woods and on technical trails.

Price: NIS 579, available at Columbia, Outsider and Shebil Israel

Manufacturer's statement: a new series of Reebok Pump shoes in a variety of color combinations. A pump and a cell filled with air are integrated into the body of the shoe, which are used to inflate the body of the shoe around the foot in order to improve its grip. The shoe adapts itself to users personally and to different foot structures, without the sportsmen having to change the natural stepping motion. At the end of use, you can return the shoe to its original size, by pressing a valve that releases the air pressure.

The experimenter's comment: The shoe is indeed impressive from the outside and received almost immediate attention. Also the inflation option that is remembered from somewhere in the nineties, does the job and contributes to the comfort of the shoe. It does take some getting used to, mainly due to the strange button that is placed on the outside of the shoe, but it seems that Rivok is back in business. Disadvantage: the shoe is not built as a classic outdoor shoe and is suitable for all types of runners. As such, it is not recommended to run on technical surfaces.

Price: NIS 549, available at the Mega Sport network and select sports stores.

Running clothes and related accessories

In addition to shoes that are designed to absorb the shocks of the ground, running in the field requires appropriate clothing and being equipped with accessories that will make the effort more comfortable and tolerable. Tights, sweat and rain insulated shirts, dedicated carrying bags, sunglasses and water belts - all of these will allow you to run for a long time without looking at the clock.

Lightweight running tights for men, 9 inches long, with a maximum level of sweat evaporation, made of DRILAYER material that repels moisture and wetness. The tights themselves have very thin seams that reduce their weight and are hardly noticeable on the body. The rubber belt in the stomach is very elastic and does not fold during running. It is equipped with only a back pocket that at first glance looks too small but is deep enough to hold three energy bars.

Price: NIS 210, available at brand stores Have you already chosen the outfit for the desert marathon?

Women – Greenlight Capri SE

Running tights adapted to the Israeli winter and with wide pockets and a very good level of evaporation. The great uniqueness of the tights lies in the fact that it can actually be worn upside down and even then it flatters the body just as much. The experimenter noted favorably the fact that these are two tights for one price. Price: NIS 270, available at brand stores

Long running tights for men from the Supernova family suitable for training runs and races. The tights are relatively thin and ventilated and yet warm the legs on cool days. Its great advantage is the number of pockets - three spaces that allow you to carry energy bars, dates, money or keys. It is also equipped with reflectors on the sides of the legs.

Price: NIS 329, available at brand stores and sports chains.

A running shirt also from the Supernova family with climacool technology which is considered the leader of Adidas. In the first measurement, she felt a little roughness, but the shirt during the run was hardly felt on the body. Besides that, it hardly absorbed any moisture even after two hours of intense running. In addition, it should be noted that it is tastefully designed.

Price: NIS 169, in brand stores and sports chains

Adidas

Long running tights for men that are especially suitable for the Israeli winter and have a solid look. The experimenter drew the main part of the experience from the quality of the fabric and its almost perfect fit on the body even during particularly long runs. The level of evaporation is also very good and also the level of safety with several reflectors scattered throughout.

Price: NIS 549, available in brand stores throughout the country

Long running tights for men made of polyester and lycra designed to keep the feet warm on cold days. These are relatively thick tights but still maintain a good level of evaporation and do not store the sweat for a long time. It is also equipped with two large pockets on the sides with a zipper that allow you to carry small items and even a mobile phone in an emergency.

Price: NIS 199, available at the Mega Sport Women's network.

A running suit that includes long tights and a matching shirt. which includes a zipper for carrying a music player with an outlet for headphones and a ventilation opening in the back area. This is a fairly comfortable shirt with a pleasant and thin fabric that also repels moisture. Running jacket for women Flexible and ergonomic fabric jacket that does not restrict body movement. It is equipped with thermal insulation that helps maintain body heat, but during a long run the experimenter reported increased sweating. However, this is a winter jacket that will definitely do the trick on cold days.From the palms - at the ends of the sleeves you can find holes for the thumbs, to prevent the sleeve from rising on the arm and to keep the body covered against the cold up to the neck.

One of the most successful international fashion chains decided last year to release its own line of designed sports products. The result certainly looks good but regarding the feeling, there is still room for improvement compared to the leading sports equipment manufacturers in the world.

However, H & M has nothing to be ashamed of. This is gym fashion that definitely meets the basic expectations of the workout as well as the price. For the purpose of the article, gray tights for women with an elastic waist (NIS 149), a running top made of functional fabric (NIS 199) and a sporty dry-fit tank top (NIS 59.90) were tested. The level of evaporation of the tights and the tank top were better but it seems that the quality of the fabric is too synthetic and will not last for many runs. The top was able to warm but it is recommended to leave it for dry days as it was not able to resist the high humidity. To be sure, it was hard to ignore her presence in the field.

A well-ventilated and lightweight running shirt. The nets on the back of the shirt and in the shoulder area definitely do the job and wick away the sweat from the most absorbent areas. Other than that, this is an incredibly beautiful shirt that comes in bright turquoise/light blue colors.

Price: NIS 249, available at the GetPro network and the sports networks

A professional running shirt with stretchy and lightweight fabric that hardly absorbs liquids. The shirt is equipped with reflective colors and gives a particularly airy feeling even after two hours of running on a hot day. The shirt felt comfortable on the body even for everyday use.

Price: NIS 269, available at the major sports chains

Sacconi X-Static XT2

Tester's note: Sacconi's premium shirt made of high-quality nylon fabric that evaporates not only the sweat but also its smell. Already in the first run, the promise is fulfilled: the shirt does get a wet look, but the chest remains completely dry throughout the run. Apart from that, it is very comfortable on the body and gives it a shapely look.

Price: NIS 249, available at brand stores.

Brooks Podium Running Bag

The experimenter's opinion: a good bag for carrying equipment on the way to training/competition. It's comfortable to move around with but not suitable for a real run. Its main compartment is spacious and allows storage of shoes and warm/alternate clothing. In addition, there is an additional upper compartment for a wallet and functional water compartments with a rubber stopper that allow you to insert a large bottle without fear of it falling. It also has an additional strap on the chest for increased grip. However, it lacks an internal division within the compartments, a compartment for headphones and an external ventilation compartment for wet clothes or equipment.

Price: NIS 250, available at brand stores

INOV Ultra Marathon running bag

The experimenter's note: a running bag designed for long runs with maximum storage range and light weight. At first glance, it looks like a vest for everything, but the central storage compartment and the two pockets designed to carry up to three liters of water make it a high-quality bag that both fulfills its purpose and maintains a low weight and an impressive evaporation capacity. The bag itself comes with no less than six grip straps that stretch and accept the shape of the body and does not give a feeling of discomfort even when wearing relatively thick clothes. The bag comes with two water bottles and drinking tubes that connect to the shoulder straps. The bag comes with a small pocket for the player and headphones. After several long runs the bag remained dry even when the shirt was wrung out of sweat.

Price: NIS 550, obtained at the Pro-Runner importer's store in Bnei Brak

Camelbak Podium Running Belt

The experimenter's note: the running belts have quite a challenge: on the one hand, comfort and a friendly weight that does not burden the run, and on the other hand they have to be massive enough to carry the weight of the water bottles and personal items in the holster. Not every runner is used to running with a belt and those with wide waists are usually in the first refusal group.

However, the Camelback running belt certainly allows for a comfortable click space. It is equipped with a particularly strong plastic clip instead of a velcro strip that may come loose at the first contact with the water. Its elasticity is also good and its tight pouch is wide enough to store a mobile phone, keys, money and energy gels. Another thing is the bottles in the belt. They come in the new format in the amount of 350 ml and their plastic holder is high quality and strong enough not to hear too much of the splashing of the water. The advantage of this strap is that you can direct the bottles to be carried in the back and in front and not feel it jumping due to the weight of the water and of course, the weight of the sweat. Disadvantage : The bottles are too stiff and less comfortable to drink while running.

Price: NIS 319, available at select running and hiking stores

Oakley running glasses Flak jacket xlj

The experimenter's note: running glasses are an important commodity in all seasons of the year and on any running surface. Oakley's Flak jacket xlj model, which are defined as running and cycling glasses, definitely did the job in the field as well. The glasses come with a light and flexible frame equipped with pillows on the arms which contributes to a comfortable position on the face and above all fixed. The glasses were tested on several long runs in mountainous terrain on both hot and rainy days.

Despite the sub-optimal conditions, the lenses maintained sharp visibility and the entire reflector remained almost dry.

In addition, the rubber pads maintained a good level of friction with the nose and the position of the glasses on the face was precise: that is, an excellent gap to prevent wind, sun and rain from entering the eyes without detracting from the normal air flow needed to ventilate the eyes. Their design also seems to be built entirely for running or cycling. They are aerodynamic and the lenses are polished so that they do not resist the wind. Disadvantage: the size of the lenses may not suit people with wide faces.

Price: about NIS 800, available at select sports stores

Magnesium is the fourth most important mineral needed by the body and is mainly concentrated in bones and muscles. Most people consume it through food, but endurance runners and those who run regularly may suffer from magnesium deficiency and the initial meaning is frequent and painful muscle cramps, especially at night. In such a case, you should consider adding magnesium to your daily menu through regular eating of whole grains, legumes, nuts, almonds or through capsules that are consumed before bed and help relax muscles and maintain bone health. The capsules can be carried and used even during long runs, subject to the manufacturer's instructions.Disadvantage: not suitable for everyone, a doctor or physiotherapist should be consulted.

Price: NIS 59, available at pharmacies and health food stores

Traumil - less pain

Muscle pain is a well-known phenomenon among runners and it is highly recommended to treat them before they become a bothersome injury. For many runners, giving up training is a kind of curse and therefore muscle recovery takes place during training and rest hours. Cramped muscles, sprains, bone pain or tendon and tissue inflammation are commonplace and therefore it is recommended to apply ointments that actually increase blood flow to the damaged tissues or muscles and speed up the recovery process. These ointments can be applied to the problem area 2-3 times and even wrap the place in cling film to increase absorption.Disadvantage: not suitable for those sensitive to homeopathic products.

Price: from NIS 50, depending on the size of the package. available in pharmacies and health food stores