Obstacle Mud Runner - issue 12

ForEliteAtheletes to FunRunners 01732 452404 41 FOOTWEAR : REVIEW Salomon RX SLIDE 4.0 W Salomon say: “After a tough workout, you want shoes that feel like walking on a cloud. RX SLIDE 4.0 W delivers that feeling, with a super cushioned midsole and stretch, breathable mesh upper that feels great barefoot or over socks. Instant comfort, delivered.” Here’s what Laura thought…. I read some of the reviews of the Salomon RX Slide recovery shoes before getting a pair. Others were likening them to walking on pillows or clouds and I can’t really disagree. These take cushioning to the next level. I tend to ache tremendously after a race, yet donning these shoes after my latest Spartan race seemed to aid my ailing body; even my usual lower back pain was eased. The upper is made of a breathable open mesh which I had some reservations about as I suffer from poor circulation and often have very cold feet. I thought I’d be having to wear thick woollen socks. However, my feet don’t feel cold in them. Nor hot. It took me nearly a week to work out that they have a leather footbed which clearly was providing excellent temperature regulation as well as comfort. Salomon’s description of the sole technology: “A sole construction that offers heel to toe transition that offers improved rebound giving you more energy return with each step”. I understand what this means now. The cloud that it feels like you’re stepping on ‘boings’ back as you begin to transfer your weight from one foot onto the other making walking less of an effort which means your aching muscles are getting more of a rest despite still going through the full range of movement. This has to promote recovery. I’m sure of it. I am now wearing them whenever I can, which, sadly, doesn’t include at work. Other points to note: the outer sole is exceptionally grippy and they have a 12mm drop. They do seem to come up rather wide but not so wide that there’s any trouble with my feet moving around in them or them slipping off. I would highly recommend. RRP £55.00 Currently just £33 www.salomon.com boing boing Tried & Tested