Author: Bradley Martinez
Labelled as ‘The Next Generation of Fast’, we’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% at Footpatrol.
Having first been teased back in 2019 when Eliud Kipchoge took a prototype version and ran a marathon in under the holy grail time of 2 hours, everyones eyes were on his feet and what had taken him past this barrier.
Fast forwarding to mid 2020 and the world was introduced to the Alphafly NEXT%. Now with their second iteration ready to launch, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on them and see what they were all about.
Being Nikes premier racing shoe, the Alphafly has got technology and innovation in every part you look at. Building on the Vaporfly NEXT%, the Alphafly is packed with additional ZoomX foam within the heel that gives it its unique stance and greater stack height. If that wasn’t enough, in an effort to not only break but shatter those PB’s, within the forefoot is two visible and ultra-responsive Zoom Air pods that manage to deliver even more energy return than previous generations.
To celebrate this upcoming launch, our Paris store teamed up with the guys over at Power Up and invited down members Ruddy and Julien for a catch up and to check out this latest innovation from Nike.
FP: Thank you guys for being here, hope you have warmed up for this weekend’s race! How is it going ?
Ruddy/Julien: It’s still going well and you? – What warm-up? lol
FP: The real reason we’re here is to discuss the upcoming AlphaFly NXT% which launches at Footpatrol this weekend. This is the second iteration of the Alphafly, have you tried this model yet? From what I’ve read, there are some big advantages to running with it.
R: I have run with the pair in a quick session before and I won’t hide from you that the pair are “DANGEROUS”. As soon as you accelerate, you immediately feel that you are going to take off: it’s crazy !The Zoom Next% was already crazy but this one !!!!
J: I never got to try it again but just the feedback Ruddy gave us in training made you want to try it out! Already he was running like a mustang with that on his feet, we could only see him 2 minutes at the start of the session.
FP: After following Power Up since its debut, we have noticed that the Nike Vaporfly NEXT% is often used by the members of the collective, what do you think of the new technology of the Alphafly NEXT% compared to that of the Vaporfly? NEXT%?
J: The Vaporfly NEXT% was a real revolution for me in terms of responsiveness on the stride, so I couldn’t even imagine how it felt with the Alpha. The pair are really powerful on the attack from the stride they rocket forward, in addition to the really cool design of the pair they totally live up to their promises.
R: I think the Next was impressive, because it’s still well propelled on the forefoot, it had good cushioning with great responsiveness.
To compare it with the Alpha; as soon as you put your foot in it you know it’s going to be something: there is a forward tilt of the foot that happens naturally as soon as you walk. So imagine when you run! Then the energy that you could “lose” with the Next% when your foot touched the ground: the sag, it is directly corrected by these 2 air bubbles that you find on the Alpha.
FP: Since its introduction, the NEXT% range has left its mark on the running industry, on and off the track. What impact has it had on runners and athletes?
R: The impact is clear: whether you are a pro / semi pro or an amateur runner, everyone wants to own this pair! We even saw professional athletes signing in the competition doing normal SOLESWAP! Then it allowed all other brands to “try” carbon and offer a similar model. 7/8 out of 10 records have been EXPLODED with a NEXT!
J: By the way this is really where Nike is too strong and dominates the market. They bring pure innovation while keeping a design that makes you want to have it, whether you’re a pro or just a Sunday runner you want to have style when you run!
FP: This is the first time we have welcomed the Power Up team to Footpatrol, could you give us a little more information about the team and why / how you decided to start it? It has become quite a club in Paris.
R: To not give you everything and see you on a run with US and especially if I start telling you about the whole story; I’ll write you a book!
I wanted to share my energy, my vision of the sport, my values on a lot of things that make it really not just a “running crew”. I wanted to allow people to be able to express themselves in another way. The truth is, at the beginning, I created POWER UP for 5 people who came to run with me for a few months (Ben, Julien, Ulysse, Jacques and Saranu) even that is a great story.
Currently, we are about fifty.
J: I’m not going to lie before meeting Ruddy and having the chance to be in the family and the POWER UP adventure. I was a strong Sunday sportsman! But the dynamic atmosphere of always pushing yourself and giving yourself strength made me directly addicted!
FP: Are there any notable advantages to running in a club, with your friends, rather than going solo?
R: The word “club” is not for Us. A club, there is a membership fee and there is something too formal, maybe too serious lol.
But on the other hand, that’s why I recommend coming to run with Us: you will immediately see the difference between running solo and running as a team: The energy that a group gives off is incredible: you know you don’t run almost more for you but the whole group: so even when you are losing energy, you will have a colleague who will boost you !!
Just be prepared to laugh, to be spoofed and to be spoofed during the effort! It teases a lot 😉
J: Personally, going solo is not for me, certainly a mind that I don’t have. I need to know that I’m surrounded by people that my guys are there to give me a boost and that we’re together to share something that is more than just running. I’m not here for the performance I’m far from the fastest but it’s like Ruddy says to share a real energy that goes beyond sport.
FP: Along with the obvious physical benefits of running, we wanted to talk about the additional mental health benefits you can get from running. How did this aspect of running benefit you?
R: Everyone experiences running differently! Personally, without running I wouldn’t be so mentally relaxed, I wouldn’t be so creative. Running really helps me express myself.
J: I will even extend to all sports the physical effort will always be beneficial it brings satisfaction of well-being, running still has this thing in addition or from a moment you exceed your threshold and it becomes an automatic thing. You come back limit in meditation.
FP: With the crazy year that 2020 has been, how did you manage to stay motivated, was running a chore or kept you going? How did you spend your time differently?
R: This year is really special for us knowing it was our anniversary. After this Covid just kept us from getting together to train together, to spend time together, to participate in races that we had prepared for “X” time.
But it’s also very important to rest, and it has allowed us to train differently. I won’t hide from you that ENERGY has never been so strong !!!
J: It allowed us to rest in peace to come back even more strongly!
FP: Well guys thank you for participating and we look forward to seeing you this Saturday for your 5K run!
R/J: Thank you for this invitation we are expecting you on Saturday
Lors de son célèbre passage sous la barre des 2h sur un marathon, Eliud Kipchoge portait un prototype de la Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT%.
Reconnu comme la première paire de course de chez Nike, l’Alphafly NEXT% est un concentré de technologie : 2 unités d’Air Zoom à l’avant du pied et une mousse Zoom X au niveau du talon pour une meilleur absorption des chocs. Cette paire a été conçut pour battre vos propres records.
Pour célébrer le lancement de la nouvelle Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT%, nous avons rencontré Ruddy et Julien, 2 membres du collectif Power Up Run pour parler de leur rapport au running, de la paire et de leur collectif
FP: Merci les gars d’être ici, j’espère que vous vous êtes échauffés pour la course de ce week-end! Comment ça va ?
Ruddy/Julien: Ça va toujours bien et toi ? – Quel échauffement ? lol
FP: La véritable raison de notre présence ici est de discuter de la prochaine AlphaFly NXT% qui sera lancée chez Footpatrol ce week-end. C’est la deuxième itération de l’Alphafly, vous avez déjà essayé ce modèle ? D’après ce que j’ai lu, il y a de gros avantages à courir avec.
R: j’ai déjà couru avec la paire sur une session rapide et je te cache pas que la paire est « DANGEREUSE ». Dès que tu accélères, tu sens direct que tu vas décoller : c’est un truc de fou ! Car la Zoom Next % était déjà folle, mais celle-ci !!!!
J: J’ai jamais pu encore l’essayer, mais juste les retours que Ruddy nous faisait à l’entraînement donnaient envie de tester ça ! Déjà qu’il cavale comme un mustang, avec ça aux pieds on le voyait seulement 2 minutes en début de session.
FP: Après avoir suivi Power Up depuis ses débuts, nous avons remarqué que la Nike Vaporfly NEXT% est souvent utilisée par les membres du collectif, qu’est ce que vous pensez de la nouvelle technologie de l’Alphafly NEXT% par rapport à celle du Vaporfly NEXT%?
J: La Vaporfly NEXT% à été, pour moi, une vrai révolution en terme de réactivité sur la foulée, alors je n’imaginais même pas le ressenti avec l’Alpha. La paire est vraiment puissante sur l’attaque de la foulée elle propulse vers l’avant comme une fusée. En plus du design vraiment cool de la paire, elle tient totalement ses promesses.
R: Je trouve que la Next était impressionnante, car on est quand même bien propulsé sur l’avant du pied, qu’elle avait un bon amorti avec une très grande réactivité.Pour la comparer avec l’Alpha ; dès que tu poses ton pied dedans tu sais que ça va être quelque chose : il y a une inclinaison vers l’avant du pied qui se fait naturellement dès que tu marches. Alors imagine quand tu cours ! Puis l’énergie que tu pouvais « perdre » avec la Next% quand ton pied touchait le sol : l’affaissement, il est directement corrigé par ces 2 bulles d’air que tu retrouves sur l’Alpha.
FP: Depuis son introduction, la gamme NEXT% a marqué de son empreinte l’industrie de la course à pied, sur et hors piste. Quel impact elle a eu sur les coureurs et les athlètes ?
R: L’impact est clair : que tu sois coureur pro/semi pro ou amateur, tout le monde veut posséder cette paire ! On voyait même des athlètes professionnels signés chez la concurrence qui faisaient des SOLESWAP normal ! Puis ça a permis à toutes les autres marques « d’essayer » le carbon et d’offrir un modèle similaire. 7/8 records sur 10 ont été EXPLOSÉS avec une NEXT !
J: Ruddy à tout dit c’est vraiment là où Nike est trop fort et domine le marché. Ils apportent l’innovation pure tout en gardant un design qui donne envie de l’avoir, que tu sois pro ou juste coureur du dimanche, tu as envie d’avoir du style quand tu run !
FP: C’est la première fois qu’on accueille l’équipe de Power Up chez Footpatrol, pourriez-vous nous donner un peu plus d’informations sur l’équipe et pourquoi / comment vous avez décidé de la créer ? C’est devenu tout un club à Paris.
R: Je ne peux pas tout te raconter, déjà parce que je veux te voir sur un run avec NOUS et surtout parce que si je commence à te parler de toute l’histoire; je vais t’écrire un livre !J’ai voulu partager mon énergie, ma vision du sport, mes valeurs sur beaucoup de choses qui font que c’est vraiment pas qu’un ‘crew de running’. Je voulais permettre aux gens de pouvoir s’exprimer d’une autre façon. La vérité, au début, j’ai créé POWER UP pour 5 personnes qui venaient courir avec moi depuis quelques mois (Ben, Julien, Ulysse, Jacques et Saranu), même ça c’est une grande histoire.Actuellement, nous sommes une cinquantaine.
J: Moi je vais pas mentir, avant de rencontrer Ruddy et d’avoir la chance d’être dans la famille et l’aventure POWER UP j’étais un sportif du dimanche fort ! Mais la dynamique, l’ambiance, le fait de se pousser toujours et de se donner de la force m’a rendu direct accro !
FP: Pour accompagner le lancement, Power Up organisera une course de 5 km pour que tout le monde puisse courir et se réunir, au début et à la fin du run, au magasin Footpatrol à Paris. Y a-t-il des avantages notables à courir au sein d’un club, avec vos amis, plutôt que de partir en solo?
R: Le mot « club » n’est pas pour Nous. Un club, il y a une cotisation et il y a quelque chose de trop formel, peut être trop sérieux lol.Mais par contre, c’est pour ça que je conseille de venir courir avec Nous : tu vas tout de suite voir la différence entre courir solo et courir en équipe : L’énergie que dégage un groupe est incroyable : tu sais que tu ne cours presque plus pour toi mais pour tout le groupe : donc même quand t’es en perte d’énergie, t’as un collègue qui te boost !!Juste prépare toi à rigoler, à te faire charrier et à charrier pendant l’effort ! Ça se taquine beaucoup 😉
J: Perso partir en solo c’est pas pour moi, certainement un mental que j’ai pas. J’ai besoin de savoir que je suis entouré, que mes gars sont là pour me booster et qu’on est ensemble pour partager un truc qui va plus loin que juste courir. Je suis pas là pour la performance, je suis loin d’être le plus rapide mais c’est, comme dit Ruddy, de partager une vraie énergie qui va au delà du sport.
FP: Outre les bienfaits physiques évidents de la course à pied, nous voulions parler des avantages supplémentaires pour la santé mentale que vous pouvez obtenir en courant. Comment cet aspect de la course vous a-t-il été bénéfique?
R: Tout le monde vie le running différemment ! Pour ma part, sans le running je ne serais pas aussi détendu mentalement, je ne serais pas aussi créatif.. La course m’aide vraiment à m’exprimer.
J: J’élargirais même à tous les sports. L’effort physique sera toujours bénéfique, il apporte de la satisfaction, du bien être. La course à pied a quand même ce truc en plus, où à partir d’un moment tu dépasses ton seuil et ca devient un truc automatique. Tu rentres limite en méditation.
FP: Avec l’année folle qu’a été 2020, comment avez-vous réussi à rester motivés, la course à pied a-t- elle été une corvée ou vous a-t-elle permis de continuer? Comment avez-vous passé votre temps autrement?
R: Cette année est vraiment spéciale pour nous, sachant que c’était notre anniversaire. Après ce Covid nous a juste empêché de nous retrouver pour s’entrainer ensemble, de passer du temps ensemble, de participer à des courses que nous avions préparées pendant « X » temps.Mais c’est aussi très important de se reposer, et ça nous a permis de nous entraîner différemment. Je te cache pas que L’ÉNERGIE n’a jamais été aussi forte !!!
J: Ca a permis de se reposer tranquille pour revenir encore plus en force !
FP: Eh bien les gars, merci de votre participation et nous avons hâte de vous voir ce samedi pour votre course de 5 km!
R/J: Merci à vous pour cette invitation on vous attend Samedi
Hailing from Peterborough we bring to you our latest installment within the Frequent Players Guest mix series, Alisha.
Bringing her eclectic taste of underground house and tech house to the scene, Alisha has paved her way as both producer and DJ having worked and mixed alongside some of the biggest names within the industry.
We sat down with Alisha to talk about her career and what its been like hosting some of the UKs first big social distancing parties.
Footpatrol: Welcome to our Frequent Players channel Alisha! How are you?
Alisha: Hey! My pleasure, thank you for having me, I’m great thank you hope you are too.
FP: All good this side thank you! Before we get into your music, would you be able to give our listeners and readers a bit of background around yourself and how you got into DJing?
A: Sure, i’m a DJ & Producer from Peterborough. I’ve been DJing for around 5 years now and producing for 4. I never studied music at school or college. I just always had a passion for music. One morning I woke up, brought a £30 controller from amazon and self taught myself in my bedroom for the next 6 months or so before getting my hands on some CDJ’s & the rest is history I suppose!
FP: Let’s talk music! You are known as a hard hitting Tech-House DJ/Producer was it the plan to always get into House music?
A: Djing wise house music was always the passion from the first events and festivals I went to when I was younger. Phillip George/ Sam Divine were the first couple people I watched DJ Before going to Creamfields and seeing Heidi, Hot Since 82 etc. I’m a huge R’n’B fan I must say but as a DJ house music was definitely the route for me, it made me move like no other! I’ve learnt over the years so much about house music and what I like & vibe off. The music HAS to have a groove for me and that underground feel to it.
FP: You also have supported acts like Richy Ahmed, Hot Since 82 and even went back to back with the legend Green Velvet! What’s it been like to be able to play alongside some of these artists?
A: Yeah pretty amazing to be honest. I never thought I’d be DJing outside of my bedroom when I first started. So as time went on and I started to be a part of these big lineups with artists that have been in the industry for decades it was very nerve-racking at first but I soon realised they’re just normal people like myself who I’ve learnt a lot from.
FP: It must have been such a crazy feeling to go B2B with Green Velvet?
A: Very mad haha! It was still at the start of my career so it was very overwhelming. We played for 4 hours and he’s had my back since! Had me a part of his LaLa Land shows as well as signing to his record label. An amazing guy who I’m lucky enough to call my friend.
FP: In your career so far is there anything that has stood out to be one of the most memorable experiences?
A: So many gigs & moments have stuck with me before 2020 kicked in haha. I think headlining BPM Festival’s 2019 party has to be up there. It was honestly incredible, probably one of the best sets I’ve played and still the most memorable. It was my first time going to Portugal let alone playing there and the crowd was just amazing.
FP: Moving onto your music. Have you been producing as long as you have been DJing, which came first?
A: DJing came first for me, I wanted to build my name as a brand and get a feel for gigs and music I’d like to produce and play. So then when I did make and release music I had already built my brand and helped develop it, which luckily has gone well!
FP: How would you describe your sound when it comes to your production?
A: Energetic Grooves! That’s what I love & my sets are full of energy but with that underlying groove throughout.
FP: I also read not so long ago you hosted your own social distancing open air event. What was that like, was that the first proper show you’ve done since lockdown?
A: I did! August Bank Holiday Sunday it was and it was truly amazing! I’ve been to a few social distanced events since lockdown was a thing and I’ve been lucky enough to play at 2 events before mine took place. I knew I wanted to get it as close to the real thing as I could with the production, sound & all the minor details. I was supposed to be doing my homecoming party in July which due to restrictions couldn’t go ahead. So I thought why not bring something to Peterborough to help with our pandemic. I’m glad to say it was a huge success and it was great to see everyone smiling and dancing again (in their social bubbles of course!)
FP: It must have been a strange feeling hosting a social distancing party, do you think this is going to be the way forward for events?
A: To me I didn’t let that get in the way. Everything was all inline with the government guidelines with tables at 2m apart / hand sanitisers etc. It didn’t feel strange to me at all, I think with the amount of effort myself & my team put into it within 2 weeks to make sure it is done to its absolute best. I made sure I focused on everyone having a good time and of course staying safe.
I really don’t think so and I hope this isn’t the way forward for events. I don’t like to say too much on the matter as there is a lot of negativity around the industry at the moment and for everyone. It would be great to hear some updates soon on the industry as I feel like we have been left to wonder a lot. However, I’m just very grateful that I’ve been able to hit the reset button, make loads of music, build a new studio, stay healthy and host my first party. Once we’re allowed back in the clubs it’ll be an amazing moment.
FP: Now if you could describe your mix in 2 words, what would you say?
A: Groove, Energy
FP: Well Alisha thank you, we are all excited to hear what you have installed for us in your mix! Before we let you go, what does the rest of 2020 have in store for you, is there anything you want to get the people excited for?
A: Thank you again for having me. I really enjoyed the mix! Yes I have an EP coming out beginning of October with a track that’s been awaiting release for a long time so i’m really excited for this one!
Over the last few years, Mizuno have created a path that has not only been a new direction for the brand, but has been shaped in such a way that it has become a storytelling platform that sheds light on what is one of the biggest and untapped archives out of any brand.
Founded in 1906 Mizuno has never strayed away from the technological challenges that are faced by athletes in their sporting careers. Besides Golf, Baseball, Volleyball and many other sports Mizuno has had a strong and stable footing within the running world making their mark in 1997 with the release of the Wave Rider 1 and their notorious ‘Wave Technology’.
Moving forward 10 years to 2007, ‘Wave Technology’ had advanced so much. To celebrate their 10th anniversary of this amazing technology, Mizuno launched their most advanced model yet – The Mizuno Wave Rider 10. Featuring a thermo plastic insert of which takes the form of the ‘Wave Technology’ providing additional cushioning, greater energy return and increased stability. Paired with a highly shock absorbent (VS-1) foam heel wedge and AP foam midsole. With all that cushioning, Mizuno also added an extremely durable outsole made out of a material called X10 Carbon Rubber.
With the sole unit having so many components, the uppers for the shoe had to also be just as complex. Using the brand’s AIRmesh breathable uppers, and Mizuno’s Intercool system – a full midsole ventilation system that reduces heat and humidity build up in the shoe during exercise. They were able to make a lightweight running shoe that carried every aspect of Mizunos DNA, so light it only weighs 320g!
Overall the Wave Rider 10 and the entire series is one of the most advanced and forward thinking running technologies within the industry and has no doubt created some incredibly high tech and strong selection of runners.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 10 is coming soon to Footpatrol!
Something that has always inspired us here at Footpatrol is the heritage of where streetwear and sportswear came from including 80s/early 90s sportswear brand logos/graphics.
For our latest T-Shirt collection, we brought these inspirations to the forefront for a duo that allows you to represent both our London and Paris stores.
The black tee, representing London could be mistaken for the colours known to the city with its brutalist concrete building and its often grey covered skies however it actually looks to hark back to the 90’s sports teams jersey colours that was available around those years.
For Paris, we looked at classic sportswear brand/team colours from those years and wanted to find a set of colours that defined this period.
Available in-store and online, sizes range from S-XXL, priced at £35.
Labelled as ‘The Next Generation of Fast’, we’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% at Footpatrol.
Having first been teased back in 2019 when Eliud Kipchoge took a prototype version and ran a marathon in under the holy grail time of 2 hours, everyones eyes were on his feet and what had taken him past this barrier.
Fast forwarding to mid 2020 and the world was introduced to the Alphafly NEXT%. Now with their second iteration ready to launch, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on them and see what they were all about.
Being Nikes premier racing shoe, the Alphafly has got technology and innovation in every part you look at. Building on the Vaporfly NEXT%, the Alphafly is packed with additional ZoomX foam within the heel that gives it its unique stance and greater stack height. If that wasn’t enough, in an effort to not only break but shatter those PB’s, within the forefoot is two visible and ultra-responsive Zoom Air pods that manage to deliver even more energy return than previous generations.
To celebrate this upcoming launch, we once again teamed up with the guys over at Your Friendly Running Club and invited down members Oliver and Sam for a catch up and to check out this latest innovation from Nike.
Stay tuned for more information!
Footpatrol: Guys thank you for being here, hope you have been warming up for this weekend’s run! How have you been?
ST: Feeling good. I had a minor foot injury during the middle of summer which put me out for 5 weeks, but have been back on the road again the past month and building up my training again.
OH: Good… Getting back into the swing of things post lockdown life trying to add a sense of normality back into my routine and new ways of working. In terms of running, it’s been an opportunity to build those miles back up in preparation for this year’s Virtual London Marathon.
FP: Now, the main thing we’re really here for is to discuss the upcoming AlphaFly NXT% that’s launching here at Footpatrol this weekend. Being the second iteration of the Alphafly, have you guys managed to try this model out yet? From what I’ve read, the running benefits the wearer gets are insane!
ST: I haven’t had a chance to get my hands on the AlphaFly yet as it sold out so quick when it initially came out in the UK and the resell value is through the roof. For the past year I have been running in the Nike Vapourfly NEXT% which I really love, so I expect the performance of the Alphafly to be even greater. From what I have read online and heard from friends who have already tried them out. The main benefits seem to be the two huge forefoot Zoom Air bags that sit beneath the carbon fiber plate and a layer of ZoomX, which really helps for the longer runs. The stack height variance seems much bigger on the Alphafly and I’ve heard people say you feel higher off the ground.
OH: Thanks to my flatfeet and the fact I find myself suffering with overpronation, I’ve had quite the midsole action and tested multiple carbon plated runners but the one I’ve been a long time advocate of has to be the NEXT%’s. When the Alphafly’s were introduced, I was personally super excited to get my hands on them to witness that next step. With that overpronation, I’m hoping and looking forward to testing the extra stability qualities that come with the Alphafly.
FP: Having joined both of you previously on runs, I’ve noticed the Nike Vaporfly NEXT% is often on your feet, how do you feel the new technology in the Alphafly NEXT% compares to that of the Vaporfly NEXT%?
ST: After trying out the shoes for the first time on the photoshoot I can definitely say there is a huge difference in the feel of the shoes. Despite looking much bigger, the Alphafly is surprisingly light. I love the atomknit upper and the lacing system with webbed laces make sure they stay super snug on the feet. You can really feel the extra foam in the sole too, it’s like running on clouds. The colour is obviously amazing too and other features like the exposed carbon plate is a nice touch too as this was a hidden technology in the Vaporfly. Looking forward to trying them out on a long run over the weekend to see how they really perform when hitting the longer miles.
OH: I’ve got an image in my head of these Mr Gadget type robotic trampoline legs, do you know what I mean?
FP: We definitely don’t have a clue what you’re referring too…
OH: Well these feel like how I’d imagine that would feel, basically, whatever you can think of that’s bouncier than a trampoline, this is that…
FP: Since its introduction, the NEXT% range has made a huge mark in the running industry in both on and off the race track. How do you guys think this has impacted wearers and athletes?
ST: For me personally as an ametuer runner, I’ve found a lot of benefits from wearing the NEXT% such as energy saving, less pain in the legs, and better recovery. They’ve performed particularly well on race days too.
While the shoes have avoided being banned from competitive events (so far), it’s clear to see that Nike is truly innovating above and beyond when it comes to running shoes. Afterall, the Alphafly is the sneaker that Eliud Kipchoge broke the 2 hour marathon barrier in.
OH: That’s a difficult one to answer as I felt most studies displayed it’s maximum benefits for athletes during race day or a long run. However, for us keen, ametuer runners I truly believe there are some benefits you’ll notice, for example, the energy saving that comes with these trainers is next level that even on a shorter run you’ll still notice the difference in the different effort levels that will go through your legs. Maybe it’s a placebo but i know i cant hit my threshold if I’m not wearing these.
FP: Having touched briefly on Your Friendly Running Club on the Vaporfly NEXT% Ekiden launch, can you tell us a little bit more about the club and why you decided to start it? It’s become quite the club in East London.
ST: YFRC has always been a community based club that was started with the intention of bringing like minded runners together to get out and enjoy an easy 10K before 10am on a saturday morning. The club was originally started on IG when Ollie sent out a message on his stories about starting the run club so it has been great to have people from digital network connect IRL. Over the past 18 months the club has grown from 5 guys to about 20 regular guys and girls of all running levels. We like to keep the club open and be more about getting people involved rather than achieving competitive times.
OH: I think there are a lot of established clubs out there that are super well structured in their approaches and how they work… For us, although I wouldn’t say we were as well organised, our approach tries to be a lot more relaxed. Whether this is the structure of runs a week or in the way we run. We aim to be easy going with a core membership that welcomes people to come and go when they are available. Everyones got a full time day job, everyone’s relaxed about their approaches and its overall, welcoming. The only rule we have is that the last person to arrive to the run, buys the first persons coffee…
FP: Are there any noticeable benefits to running as part of a club, with your friends as opposed to going solo?
ST: For sure, there are plenty of benefits for joining a running club. I’ve noticed that by joining a club and surrounding yourself with experienced, enthusiastic people, I’ve been more likely to run long-term, instead of depending solely on my own motivation. Over the past 18 months, it’s been amazing to see the progression of everyone from where they started to where they are at now. When you’re training by yourself, it’s easy to get in a rut of the same routes at the same old pace – inevitably your running progress will plateau unless you change it up a bit. At YFRC we try to keep the routes and activities varied so it keeps everyone motivated. We’ve taken part in Park Runs and tournament events like Track Mafia, so that it adds a little bit of competition into the mix and people can really see their progression. One of the best parts of all though is developing new friendships with other members of the crew. We often have new members join who have just moved to London as running clubs are a fantastic way to meet new people and likeminded runners can train with, outside of club sessions, which can be particularly useful on those dark winter nights!
OH: I say this quite a lot and it’s definitely something i’ve realised recently since Covid-19. Last year, I started to take things a lot more serious and began going solo on runs but since Covid-19, it’s been a breath of fresh air to get the crew back together… at a distance of course and just enjoy running with others.. Everyone is there to train together, to help and encourage everyone to break their own personal goals so everyone is a part of your journey as you are theirs. It’s motivational gold!
FP: Aside from the obvious physical benefits that comes with running, we wanted to look at the more mental health benefits you can gain, how has this side of running benefitted you?
ST: Running has always had huge benefits for my mental health. For my job I often spend a lot of time on the computer or phone so running is a great way for me to disconnect and have time offline as I leave my phone at home. I like to run first thing in the morning too as it gets me energised and motivated before I start work.
OH: It’s a massive benefit to me personally, I’m not someone that can sit still for too long so the fact you can keep moving and keep my brain active whilst keeping fit is a massive plus. Being someone that can often over think things and think too deeply about certain situations, running allows me to flick a switch and switch off and focus on nothing but the run. Running is also that part of my life where it adds a sense of structure or routine to those quieter moments.
With the crazy year that has been 2020, how have you managed to keep motivated, has running felt like a chore or has it kept you going? How else have you been spending your time?
ST: running was an essential part of my routine during lockdown. As I mentioned before I run in the morning as a way to get me motivated for the day, so keeping that element to my routine was really important when we were confined to our homes. I used to go to the gym alongside my running so I also figured out some body weight exercises to keep my overall strength up.
Aside from running, I’ve been making the most of Britain with lots of staycation trips around the UK. Lots of beach days and cycle rides out of london and into the countryside.
OH: Running… cycling… lying down horizontally playing warzone, getting out running has never felt so much of a luxury so it definitely hasn’t felt like a chore, infact it’s been my release these past few months. The ability to keep changing routes, changing the sights I see allows me to interact with and take in new parts of London that I may have missed previously giving me a greater love for the place I call home.
FP: Well guys, thanks for taking part and we look forward to seeing more from you soon!
Continuing what has already been a strong start for the adidas’ A-ZX Series, we’ve now made our way to letter C with help from Boston based streetwear retailer, Concepts whose turn it is to lend their hand to the famed ZX franchise.
Taking inspiration from the recovery blankets that are used to keep runners warm after they complete the marathon, the adidas Originals by Concepts ZX-9000 shoe is surely a stand out thanks to the highly-reflective foiled silver leather that is draped across the upper.
To enter the ONLINE RAFFLE (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above form, this WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
Online raffle winners will be contacted with further information on how to purchase their pairs. The raffle is limited to one entry per household! Multiple entries will be cancelled!
The YEEZY BOOST 380 Pepper features an upper composed of multi-toned re-engineered Primeknit in a sock-like construction, providing a snug yet adaptable fit. The translucent monofilament window is woven into the upper, adding visual interest and breathability. This model features no-tie stretch laces for easy on and off wear and
comes equipped with a second set of standard laces. A re- engineered full-length BOOST midsole elevates the cushioning experience, offering optimal comfort where consumers need it most. The herringbone rubber outsole offers unique design cues and improved traction.
To enter the NON-REFLECTIVE ONLINE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter the REFLECTIVE ONLINE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter the LONDON NON-REFLECTIVE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter the LONDON REFLECTIVE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter the PARIS NON-REFLECTIVE IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter the PARIS REFLECTIVE IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above form, this WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
Online raffle winners will be contacted with further information on how to purchase their pairs. The raffle is limited to one entry per household! Multiple entries will be cancelled!
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win and pick up dates. Due to current government laws surrounding Covid-19, the store is working on an appointment only basis. You will need to contact the store to make an appointment for a time during the stated pick up dates.
2020 see’s Nike explore more and more with the iconic Dunk silhouette and it shows no sign of slowing!
The latest instalment see’s Nike celebrate the ‘Community Garden’, a place in which people can come together and connect on a treasured piece of greenery within the ever growing urban jungle.
With each of these patches of land being different to one another yet all hold the same ideas, this dunk is dressed in a patchwork of graphics that make each pair a one-of-one creation, yet coming together on the same silhouette.
The flora-infused design is complimented by a series of collage style graphics with muted, earth like tones of Midnight Turquoise and Lemon Wash.
To enter for the ONLINE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter for the LONDON IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter for the PARIS IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above form, this WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
Online raffle winners will be contacted with further information on how to purchase their pairs. The raffle is limited to one entry per household! Multiple entries will be cancelled!
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win and pick up dates. Due to current government laws surrounding Covid-19, the store is working on an appointment only basis. You will need to contact the store to make an appointment for a time during the stated pick up dates.
The YZY QNTM features an upper composed of embroidered mono mesh that provides a soft, resilient thread with a synthetic suede overlay that offers toe protection and durability. Reflective material throughout the inner webbing and heel counter emits light in darkness.
The YZY QNTM elevates the cushioning experience with a re-engineered full-length drop-in Boost midsole that provides optimal comfort where consumers need it most. A semi-translucent clear TPU cage wraps the Boost and adds a distinct design element to the model while the herringbone patterned rubber outsole offers optimal traction.
To enter the ONLINE raffle (UK applicants only), CLICK HERE!
To enter the LONDON IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter the PARIS IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above form, this WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
Online raffle winners will be contacted with further information on how to purchase their pairs. The raffle is limited to one entry per household! Multiple entries will be cancelled!
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win and pick up dates. Due to current government laws surrounding Covid-19, the store is working on an appointment only basis. You will need to contact the store to make an appointment for a time during the stated pick up dates.
When you think of iconic silhouettes that have graced the streets, the adidas Originals is definitely up there. To celebrate this, adidas have teamed up with none other than Sean Wotherspoon to bring his unique forward thinking to the silhouette.
Always striving to bring a hands on approach to his projects, Wotherspoon sat down with Adidas to rethink the ways in which the silhouette is created, taking into consideration every part of its design from the upper to the outsole. Wanting to bring a more sustainable aspect to its creation and build on his own personal lifestyle, the duo have looked towards recycled and vegan materials to create a completely vegan sneaker.
Illustrations created by Wotherspoon take dominance on the upper with extended threads emerging from the upper adding to this visually striking iteration.
To enter the ONLINE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter the LONDON IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
To enter the PARIS IN-STORE raffle, CLICK HERE!
Strictly one entry per person, multiple entries will be cancelled. Raffles sign-ups close on Wednesday 26th August at 8AM GMT. Winners will receive instructions on how to purchase.
Good luck!
