I've been lifting weights, going for runs, and taking up sports since I was a kid. I enjoy highly active, fast-moving, powerful activities, like baseball, jiu-jitsu, and weightlifting. Lifting heavy things will probably always be my favorite pastime, but I realized something is missing. 

My routines don't allow for slow movements to calm my busy mind. As an adult with ADHD who has trouble with focus and feeling calm, I do need some guidance here. While many of the best workout apps have mindfulness areas, I wanted something dedicated to mindful movement. 

Alo Moves is a bit different from many fitness apps, as its main focus is yoga, Pilates, and mobility work. Although I've used it for years, I've only really tried the HIIT warm-ups, some mobility sessions before lifting, or to challenge myself, although I still haven't mastered a handstand. 

But for this Alo Moves review, I wanted to see if I could make a noticeable difference to my wellbeing. I'm so glad I did. For two weeks, I practiced meditation, yoga, and restorative classes to calm my mind, relax my body, and boost my focus. 

1. You don't need lots of time each day

My regular workout routine takes about an hour, plus I add in two hours of sport each week. To avoid eating into this exercise time, I allowed myself 20-30 minutes with Alo Moves, but some sessions only took 10 minutes, while others were a bit longer. 

I chose to do this in the morning and afternoon, depending on the training session selected for the day. But learning to add short breaks to move, breathe, and re-center provides far-reaching benefits for your mind and body. 

As the sessions were typically short, I could slot them in around work tasks, which meant I took a break but didn't get distracted by something less rewarding. Learning how to meditate isn't always easy, but the Alo Moves classes helped develop my practice. 

The quick morning meditations were particularly impactful, allowing me to set intentions for the day, much like you might find if you do a morning yoga routine. The app has themed packs, too, so you can focus on reducing stress, calming your mind, or releasing anxiety.

2. The classes were varied and fun

As a personal trainer, I've always pushed people to slow down and take rest days or do an active recovery day workout, but I haven't found it easy to listen to my own advice. Moving a lot at a fast pace is my standard way of being. 

But my two weeks with Alo Moves made me realize there are other ways to move your body. The instructors play a big role here, with Jacy Cunningham's classes helping raise my heart rate, while Roxie Jones and Kupah James kept me entertained during full-body sessions. 

When I added slower, intentional breathwork, meditation, and yoga into my daily routine, the benefits of a more rounded training program became clear, mixing up instructors, workout styles, intentions, and purposes to keep things interesting.

3. It helped me learn new skills

I didn't realize how much I'd learn across the two-week challenge. I gained beginner-level skills in mindfulness, calming breathing practices, slowing my mind, and connecting my emotions with the physical sensations I’m feeling (and then letting those go).

Alo Moves has dozens of unique meditations, workouts, and educational health-focused content for all levels, along with breathwork practices and tutorials, including complete series, one-off classes, and week-long challenges to help you get started learning something new. 

For those new to any type of fitness, there are classes for beginners that teach you the basics of movement in yoga, Pilates, boxing, and bodyweight calisthenics exercises. Or you could focus on particular areas, like backbends, inversions, mobility, or specific yoga poses. 

But there are also fitness-adjacent sessions for personal growth and reiki if you're interested in wellbeing practices, or nutrition guides and recipes, like these quick breakfast ideas that you can prep in advance to make mornings that much easier. 

4. You can take your workouts outdoors

One thing I love about Alo Moves is the beautiful settings in incredible areas of the world that many of the videos feature. There are entire series focused on natural landscapes and tantalizing locations that tap into the benefits nature can provide for the mind and body. 

However, you can also find your own piece of paradise to practice (even if it’s just your backyard or deck) regardless of internet access since you can download Alo Moves' videos for offline use, which also makes them great if you're traveling or low on data. 

I decided that I wanted some of the benefits of outdoor exercise, so I walked to the local green and blue spaces (as I live by the ocean) and wanted to take full advantage of the extra anxiety-relieving, mood-boosting effects of moving in nature. 

Of course, if you're doing your sessions outside, you'll also need to pop on a set of workout earbuds so you can still hear the instructor's guidance, which feels like it would take away from the experience. But most have a transparency mode, so you can still hear what's going on around you. 

Should you subscribe to Alo Moves?

I already knew I liked Alo Moves' more physical classes, but this two-week challenge helped me discover a whole new way of training that wasn't solely focused on strengthening my muscles. 

If you're more interested in high-intensity sessions, rather than grounding meditations and yoga classes, Fiit may be a better choice for you, but Alo Moves is easily one of the top options if you want to learn a new skill, boost your wellbeing, or add some mindful movement to your day. 

There's a 14-day free trial so you can give it a go and see if you enjoy the classes, then it'll cost $12.99 per month or $129.99 annually, putting it in line with apps like Apple Fitness+, but with less of a focus on cardio exercise. 

However, if you like structured plans to keep you motivated, Alo Moves might not be the right fit, as there aren't a lot of notifications reminding you to take your next class or long-term programs that'll keep you going for months like you'd find in Chris Hemsworth's Centr app. 

But if you enjoy training at home without much equipment, Alo Moves is an excellent option. In most cases, all you need is a yoga mat or some light dumbbells to add mindful movement into your day, build mental strength, and boost your wellbeing. 

At first glance, the Urbanears Juno look a lot like Apple AirPods, but then again, which headphones don't these days? Apple's stemmed design is now a staple feature for most earbuds, but the Juno still stand out, thanks to their budget-friendly price. 

Like many of the best workout earbuds, they're housed in a pillbox-style charging case, all in white, with a USB-C port on the bottom to recharge the headphones and case. The buds sit neatly in your ear, even during intense exercise, and come with noise cancellation too. 

I've tested a lot of headphones over eight years and found that the Juno sit comfortably in the middle, neither great nor terrible. But it's unusual to find such a good blend of features for the price, which makes them an excellent pick for everyday workout earbuds. 

Urbanears Juno review: price and features

You can pick up a set of Urbanears Juno for $99, which makes them just under half the price of the Apple AirPods Pro. While you might not get Apple's smarts, like Siri integration, Apple Fitness+ features, or spatial audio, they're still great value for money.

There's active noise cancellation (ANC), which prevents sounds from the outside from interrupting your music, podcast, or guided workout, eight hours of battery life (topped up to 26 hours with ANC on, 36 hours without), and an IPX4 rating to protect them from sweat. 

This is not a world away from the features you'd find on the Jabra Elite 7 Active (my all-time favorite workout earbuds), but with a stemmed design to keep them in place during exercise, rather than a custom-designed ShakeGrip material around the tip. 

Urbanears Juno review: sound quality

Sound quality is clearly an important factor, but as long as they don't sound bad, that might be all you're after from a set of workout earbuds. The Juno fall into that category, faithfully recreating your favorite tracks, but without the clarity of the Beats Fit Pro. 

Although I wore the earbuds throughout the day, listening to a variety of music, podcasts, and audiobooks, I also used my standard headphone reference tracks for testing; the remastered edition of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody (for dynamic range) and Deadmau5's Faxing Berlin (for bass). 

Both fared well, although I missed some of the detail on the treble end of the spectrum during Bohemian Rhapsody, and the bass wasn't as pounding as I'd expect from Faxing Berlin.

You can toggle between several pre-set equalizer modes with the Urbanears companion app, but these adjustments didn't quite do the trick, and even in Bass Boost mode, I still missed the lower end, which is a crucial part of the best workout music. 

The active noise cancellation was generally very effective, although it struggled to completely remove traffic noise, I do live in the center of a busy city, so whether this is a problem for you depends on your local environment and how you train. 

Urbanears Juno review: design and comfort

The Urbanears Juno are extremely comfortable — most of the time, I barely noticed they were in my ears. This is fairly rare, as many in-ear buds add some pressure around your ear canal, which can lead to soreness or cause a headache. 

But I wore these stemmed buds for hours at a time, listening to music during workouts, podcasts while I cooked, and, of course, while working out. I tried them during high-intensity resistance training sessions, where I moved around constantly, but they never fell out. 

During fast-paced moves like burpees, I found that the buds moved slightly. But a quick twist was all it took to get them back in place. And this was with the standard tips; the buds come with small, medium, and large tips so you can experiment to find the right size. 

You can use the touch controls on both buds to play/pause audio, change tracks, or toggle between noise cancellation modes. There's no spoken feedback, and I was never sure exactly which noise cancellation mode I had activated, so I'd cycle through until it sounded about right. 

Urbanears Juno review: battery life

Urbanears claims that you should get eight hours of playback from each bud. Although I never kept them in for that long, the battery usage seemed about right, and you can always check how much you've got left in each bud (and the case) in the app. 

The specifications note that the case and buds combined last 26 hours with noise cancellation and 36 hours without. This was broadly accurate, and I didn't have to top up the case more than once every 10 days, a process that takes about 90 minutes. 

Should you buy the Urbanears Juno?

The Urbanears Juno are a solid set of workout earbuds. They're more suited to everyday use, like during walks or around the house, but the stemmed design does keep them in place during most exercises. 

The standout feature is the price, though. For just under $100, you get noise cancellation, eight hours of battery life, and good sound quality. They might not be the absolute best, but there's a good blend of features, comfort, and quality for your money. 

However, if you're after crystal-clear audio, exercise-focused design, and enough water resistance to use them in the rain, you'll need to look elsewhere. But the Urbanears Juno are a fantastic, feature-packed, budget-friendly option. 

Also consider

Apple AirPods Pro

If you're a fan of the stemmed design, but don't want to miss out on Apple's features, then the Apple AirPods Pro are a great choice. They don't play well with Android phones, but if you use an iPhone, you get personalized audio, integration with Siri, and impressive noise cancellation. 

Jabra Elite 7 Active

The Jabra Elite 7 Active came out in 2021, but I'm yet to find a better set of workout earbuds. The ShakeGrip design keeps them in place during intense exercise, the noise cancellation and transparency modes are very effective, and you can customize the audio using the Jabra app. 

Beats headphones are seen as some of the finest on the market, so how do the Beats Fit Pro — the company's fitness-focused earbuds — hold up to that reputation? 

I wanted to see if they're deserve a place among some of the best workout earbuds, so I took them out on my runs and strength training sessions. Heading on a run means they get repeated vibrations, so you can see if they're likely to fall out. 

It's a good test, since they don't come with the over-ear earhooks you'd find on the Beats Powerbeats Pro, and you need to be sure in-ear buds aren't going to suddenly fall from your ears mid-workout, so it can be tricky to decide between the Fit Pro and Powerbeats Pro. 

Thankfully, the winged design meant they didn't shake loose during runs or try and escape during my strength workouts. I've not used Beats before though, so I was excited to see how they sounded. 

I could hear a difference in audio quality straight away, and the noise cancellation worked well. But at this price, I was expected to be blown away by the Beats Fit Pro. As it turns out they're great, but not perfect. 

Beats Fit Pro review: price and features

The Beats Fit Pro retail at $199.99/£219.99, a high price tag considering its November 2021 release date, coming in only slightly cheaper than the second-generation Apple AirPods Pro.

This is not surprising — Apple bought the fashionable headphone brand in 2014 and has offered the same high-end processors and features to its AirPods and Beats ranges. That's why the Beats Fit Pro are not that dissimilar to the AirPods Pro. 

You get active noise cancellation (ANC) to block out external noises, multifunction buttons on each earbud, and wind-reduction tech built into the microphone — useful for taking calls while out running. 

You can choose from Tidal Blue, Beats Black, Coral Pink, Volt Yellow, Beats White, Sage Grey and Stone Purple. And, handily, they are IPX4-rated for water resistance, so you can take them on outdoor adventures.

Beats Fit Pro review: sound quality

Aside from the striking design, the main selling point of any Beats set is the high-quality sound on offer. With first use, I immediately heard a different from my previous pair of earbuds. 

The quality is much clearer and well-balanced between bass and treble, no matter where I used them. I tested the Beats Fit Pro on  gym sessions and long, windy runs and each time the noise cancellation blocked out strong wind as well as gym noise.

The transparency option also aided me on a popular run route that is accompanied by both fellow runners and cyclists. My music was loud but I could still hear when a bike would approach from behind me. 

However, disappointingly, the microphone's wind reduction did not work nearly as well. When attempting phone calls on a windy day or during runs, the microphone picks up the sound of the wind much stronger than my voice.

Beats Fit Pro review: design and comfort

Much like the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless, the Beats Fit Pro have a winged design that should slide easily into the curves of your ears. This helps the buds stay in place without getting uncomfortable. 

This worked surprisingly well — I tested the headphones with interval runs and HIIT workouts and they never budged a bit. To help choose the right wings from the box, there's a Ear Tip Fit Test, if you use them with an iPhone. 

The point of the wing tucks into the inside of your ear, which I thought would cause some discomfort over extended periods, but after testing them on a three hour run, the Fit Pro earbuds were impressively comfortable. 

I really liked the on-bud button as well. It's a physical button (no touch controls!) that you can customize to turn up the volume, skip through podcasts and music, and answer calls. This was a massive help on my runs, so I didn't have to stop and adjust.

Beats Fit Pro review: battery life

You absolutely don't want your Beats Fit Pro to run out of battery mid-workout, and, in theory, they shouldn't — Apple says that you'll get six hours of use, with a further 18 from the charge case. 

I found this broadly accurate, although it's hard to say definitively as the battery drain rate depends on how loud you have them, whether you take calls, and if you have ANC or transparency mode turned on. 

However, I tested the earbuds for two weeks, exercising with them for at least an hour for six days each week and I've only had to charge the case once. And, when you open the case to turn the buds on, there's a pop-up  on your iPhone telling you how much battery is left. 

Beats Fit Pro review: user reviews

On Amazon, the Beats Fit Pro have a impressive rating of 4.5 out of five stars. This is based on 4,153 ratings worldwide. General consensus of these earbuds suggest they are nearly perfect, but they could do with some improvements. 

Several reviews reported issues with the size of the silicon ear tips, suggesting smaller sizes could be included in the box. However, these earbuds were regularly recommended as a higher quality than the standard edition Apple AirPods.

Should you buy the Beats Fit Pro?

The Beats Fit Pro are an excellent option for active fans of the brand. The winged design keeps them in place during intense workouts, the audio quality was exceptional and well-balanced, and they lasted a long time. 

It's a lot to like — but it's also not uncommon to find workout earbuds with features like noise cancellation, transparency mode, and a good fit that cost a lot less. It feels  a lot like you're paying for the brand here. 

Perhaps you're already a Beats convert, and it's not like they're substantially more than the competition, but you can get more for your money with alternatives like the Jabra Elite 7 Active or NuraTrue.

Also consider

Jabra Elite 7 Active

Like the Beats Fit Pro, the Jabra Elite 7 Active have active noise cancellation, a transparency mode, and long battery life. And there's an app for iPhone and Android to customize the audio experience. 

Apple AirPods Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro aren't specifically designed for exercise, but the stemmed headphones do stay in place, work with all of Apple's devices, and link to the company's Find My app should you misplace them. 

I've been a regular exerciser for a decade but have never had one-on-one time with a trainer. Instead, I cobbled together a strength-training routine based on what I'd read in magazines and online. However, the Covid lockdowns gave me a chance to shake things up. 

I joined a few online classes but found it challenging to stick to their schedule. Then I came across the Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth's workout app, Centr, which I now understand is considered one of the best workout apps you can get for your phone.

Besides a gym membership, I'd not spent any money on my training before, but I'd found myself in a fitness rut and decided it was worth the $120/£94 annual fee. A part of me knew that the celebrity name had won me over, but at least Hemsworth is well-known for his training regime. 

I set up my profile—opting for the advanced program and vegan food plan—and started. I thought I'd like it, but I didn't expect to enjoy it the way I did. I’ve stuck with it for more than a year and it has helped boost my training, and I even saved money by ditching the gym. 

1. You don't need the gym to get started

You may know Hemsworth for his role as Thor, the muscle-bound hero of many Marvel movies. I was worried you'd need a gym full of equipment to see results from using his app, but all I needed was a kettlebell and a pair of the best adjustable dumbbells to get through most of the sessions. 

When you browse the list of guided and self-guided training sessions, you can filter it by the type of equipment. And, following a recent update, you can set the equipment you have in your profile. The app will then automatically filter results to show you routines that you can do with your weights. 

This helps you avoid the Netflix problem: hours of scrolling while trying to find something to watch. It sounds like a minor feature, and it is, but it made it convenient to work out, which helped me to make it a regular part of my day. 

2. The workouts are easy to follow and effective

I'd become too comfortable with my previous workout routine. I'd stopped challenging myself, which is why my progress had plateaued. Centr's varied workouts were a welcome change. 

Most sessions use plenty of compound exercises, moves that work several muscles simultaneously for an effective and time-efficient workout. Luke Zocchi, Hemsworth's trainer, is also a big fan of compound moves, which explains why they're such a core part of the Centr experience. 

Many of the guided sessions—which you are led through by one of Centr’s trainers in a pre-recorded video workout—are less than 30 minutes; precisely what I was looking for. The self-guided sessions are generally longer, 40-50 minutes, as they recommend breaks of up to three minutes between sets. 

When I had more time, on the weekends, I'd take a self-guided strength workout and use the high-intensity resistance training sessions during the week when time was tighter. 

3. The food plan was interesting, but I didn't stick to it

What you eat is as important as how you train, so Centr includes a meal plan to help you get the best results from your workouts. It's a good idea, and I appreciated that there was a vegan option (yes, you can build muscle with plant protein). 

You can also adjust the number of servings for each recipe, and the app will change the ingredient quantities to match—a handy feature I've rarely seen on other apps. With a single tap, you can add everything you need to a Shopping List in the app. 

I enjoy cooking, but as I live with other people I'm unlikely to make a meal just for myself. More often than not, I flick open one of the best vegan cookbooks and make breakfast or dinner from there, so I didn't use the meal planner much. 

Could I have seen better results if I had? Probably. But I did make sure I kept my protein levels topped up by blending a post-workout smoothie with protein powder instead. 

4. There weren't enough meditation sessions

I took up meditation after being diagnosed with a chronic medical condition and found it so transformative that I now meditate every day. For most of this time, I've used the Headspace app to take guided meditations, but Centr also has guided sessions, including some led by Hemsworth himself. 

There are enough sessions for you to go a couple of months without repeating any, but I needed more variety to stick with Centr over Headspace. I really enjoyed the sessions, but most are only a couple of minutes, while Headspace lets you toggle between 5 and 20 minutes for each meditation. 

You can try this 10-minute guided breathing session led by Hemsworth If you want to sample the sessions before taking out a subscription. Then again, the app's main focus is strength training, so if learning how to meditate is your objective, you may prefer a dedicated mindfulness app instead. 

Should you subscribe to Centr?

Centr helped me realize I could train at home without compromising on my progress, so I definitely found it worth the money, even if I don't use the food planner or meditation sessions. The main reason to subscribe to the app is the strength-training workouts; the team excels at these. 

Despite Hemsworth's muscular on-screen presence, Centr primarily focuses on helping you build functional, lean muscle. The accessible approach means there's no jargon, and any technical concepts are clearly explained. 

That's true of many apps, but the fun classes, challenging self-guided routines, and equipment filters make it convenient and enjoyable to train regularly, which is why it's become my main workout companion. 

If you aren't a fan of strength training, you may be better off with Apple Fitness+ instead. The iPhone workout app is ideal for beginners and has a wide range of high-intensity workouts, cardio routines, and rowing sessions to help you reach your fitness goals. 

I wasn't sure I'd enjoy a proper hiking backpack like the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor. For years, I've carried around a lightweight rucksack that I inelegantly stuff into as much as possible, leaving the bag bulging at the seams. 

This usually means I carry far too much weight on my shoulders, causing my lower back to arch. The best hiking backpacks, with chest and hip belts, better weight distribution, and a more rigid structure, are designed to prevent that. 

During my time with the Flex Capacitor, I realized how bad my old habits were, as it felt as though I was barely carrying anything, even when the bag was fully packed. The straps were easy to adjust, and the hip strap pockets were handy. 

But it could have been more organized for a bag carrying up to 40 liters. There's only one internal pocket accessed from the top, so you need to pack cleverly and still expect to spend a short while rummaging for whatever you need. 

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor review: price and warranty

The Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor retails at $200/£160, although you can find the larger capacity versions at a higher price. This makes it more expensive than the 30-liter Helly Hansen Transistor, but it's a more flexible option with expandable storage. 

The bag isn't waterproof, so if you want to take it out when the skies open, you'll need to invest in the Flex Capacitor Rain Cover, which will set you back another $15 — not a lot, but I expected a premium bag like this to come with it included. 

Unlike the Patagonia Altiva Daypack, which has a relatively reasonable free repair service, Sierra Designs only offers a warranty against manufacturing defects for the product's lifetime, so you'll be out of pocket for all other repairs. 

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor review: design

Most hiking backpacks have a fixed capacity, but the Flex Capacitor can be adjusted between 25 and 40 liters, so it should be flexible enough for most trips. It also comes in 40-60L and 60-75L older editions, with two newer 40-60L and 60-80L versions. 

I tested the 25-40L version and used it at the most restrictive and fully expanded. You don't need to add compartments or unpack the bag; loosen or tighten the external straps as much as you need. This is useful if you want to add more to your pack during the trip. 

It's a top-loading backpack with no side access, so you do need to take the bag off if you want to locate an item inside. Fully packed, the bag is supportive and sits nicely against your body, but it becomes a bit limp if you don't fill it to the top, even at the 25L setting. 

The shoulder and hip straps are padded, which makes it comfortable to wear, but that's also partly because the weight is well distributed, which was a nice change from dumping the whole load on my shoulders as I've been used to. 

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor review: storage and organization

Some hiking backpacks, like the Osprey Talon Earth 22, come with multiple compartments in the main pocket for easy storage. So, if you want to keep your laptop within easy reach but away from your water bottle, you can. 

In place of this, the Flex Capacitor has a single, large internal compartment. It's an odd decision, as it's pretty hard to handle when restricted to 25 liters. However, once expanded to 40 liters, it's almost impossible to find anything without unpacking first. 

The Flex Capacitor's main selling point is expandable storage, but it's almost redundant if you can't actually find anything in the bag. It would make sense if you mainly want to use it for overnight stays, so you have time and space to unpack. 

However, I had a much better time with the external pockets. The hip belt has two zipped pockets, which were helpful for quick access, while the two elasticated side pockets were ideal for storing my hiking water bottles. 

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor review: fit and comfort

When I first handled the bag, I was worried that the Y-shaped suspension bracket along the rear side would dig into my back. Fortunately, this wasn't the case.

I'm used to wearing lightweight day bags on dog walks, so I expected this more structured backpack to feel more awkward, but it never did. Instead, I could barely feel the bag when it was lightly packed. 

The chest strap helped keep the pack close to my back, while the padded hip strap prevented the weight from landing on my lower back. The hip strap is adjustable, but when I tightened it, the long strap dangled around as there were no clips, so I messily tied it together instead. 

The hip straps are pretty broad, so there's space for two easy-access zipped pockets for your phone, keys, and cards. This was handy, as the straps got in the way of my pant pockets, so I needed the extra storage space.

Most importantly, though, it was comfortable to wear for hours while I meandered around the city, up hills, and across uneven surfaces. 

Should you buy the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor?

If you're planning a multi-day hike or are heading off on a backpacking adventure, the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor is an excellent option. The fact that you can adjust the size makes it flexible enough to accommodate extended trips. 

After carrying a small rucksack around for so many years, it was a welcome relief that the straps helped distribute the weight across my body, and I found it comfortable enough to wear all day as I walked across urban and rural spaces. 

But it's not very convenient if you need to find a specific item in the bag. The lack of internal organization is puzzling, as it gets messy when expanded to the full 40L. 

Also consider

Fjällräven Ulvö 30

If you're looking for more organization, the 30-liter Fjällräven Ulvö 30 has seven pockets, a slimline design, and it's fully waterproof so that you won't need an extra rain cover. 

Peak Design Travel

The Peak Design Travel is one of the most accessible bags to pack, with optional packing cubes for better organization. It's more of a travel bag and less of a hiking backpack, but it is great for overnight stays. 

Until I tested out the Osprey Talon Earth 22, I hadn't realized that hiking backpacks are just like hiking shoes — what's perfect for one person can be a nightmare for others. 

On paper, the 22-liter bag is one of the best hiking backpacks around, but it's not for everyone. I found the firm back panel an uncomfortable distraction, but my husband loved the support it gave him. 

As with other unisex bags, creating a one size fits all design is complicated. It is adjustable, but it still can't take into account the different shapes and sizes we all come in. 

To its credit, though, there is a decent amount of space given its capacity, and it is a good-looking pack. And it is flexible enough for backpacking, shorter walks, and cycling to the office.

Osprey Talon Earth 22 review: price and warranty

The Osprey Talon Earth 22 retails for $200/£160, so it's not as budget-friendly pack as the Patagonia Altvia. If you're looking for a similar design but with a lower price tag, there's a standard edition of the Osprey Talon 22 that doesn't use this pack's eco-friendly materials. 

It comes with Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee, where the company will repair any damage from any of their packs free of charge. It's an impressive service that few others offer, as most warranties only cover manufacturing defects. 

Osprey Talon Earth 22 review: design

The 22-liter backpack is on the lower end of the Talon range (which extends up to 44 liters), but there's plenty of storage, and it feels as roomy as a 30-liter backpack like the Vaude Brenta 30. 

There is top and side access to the main compartment, and, like other hiking daypacks, you need to take the bag off to get right inside. There are three colors to choose from (green, blue, and brown), and the design is generally attractive. 

The PFC/PFAS-free material is water resistant during a light shower but won't stand up against heavy or prolonged rain. There is also no waterproof cover which is disappointing. If you can keep it dry, the bag feels durable. 

And, even if it does break or you accidentally make a hole, the All Mighty Guarantee means you can send it off for a free repair. The Earth edition of the Talon 22 is made from more recycled textiles than the standard version, and half of the plastic is from recycled sources, too. 

Osprey Talon Earth 22 review: storage and organization

The Osprey Talon Earth 22 has an interesting internal design, with four layers of vertical compartments. The front section is the largest, with a zipper going halfway down on each side for easy access and a meshed pocket for smaller items. 

The other layers include a top compartment for storing quick-access items like charging cables and batteries, a full-size compartment with a laptop sleeve, and a compartment to keep your water reservoir like the Camelbak Rogue, one of our favorite water bottles for hiking. 

But as the bag isn't fully waterproof, it might be safer only to pack a reservoir when you don't also have a laptop in the bag! If you prefer a bottle, there are two mesh pockets on the side and hip pockets for your phone and other small essentials. 

Osprey Talon Earth 22 review: fit and comfort

The stiff but padded back panel is covered by a breathable mesh and has curved indents to encourage airflow. Happily, this AirScape back panel does an effective job of keeping you cool and clear of sweat.

And you can adjust the height of the back by lifting the Velcro-attached reservoir section, which makes it more comfortable for taller wearers. There's also a flexible harness and a hip belt, which I never found restrictive. 

I did find the back suspension panel was too firm, with all the weight on my lower back, when I prefer it on my hips, back, and shoulders. At times, it felt like the panel was digging into my back, and I often couldn't wear it for more than an hour without a break. 

Even with everything adjusted right and pulled neatly against my body, the shoulder straps tended to dig into my chest. And if you're a light packer, it's still a heavy bag, weighing 1.1kg when empty. 

Should you buy the Osprey Talon Earth 22?

The Osprey Talon Earth 22 is a well-equipped, spacious bag ideal for a day hike or overnight backpacking. The internal organization is well thought out and makes it easy to find what you need. 

It's also an interesting option for commuting if you need to take a lot to work each day. But it's not comfortable enough to wear for longer periods, especially if you fully pack the already heavy bag. 

The Earth 22 is more expensive than the rest of the Talon range, so it depends on how much you value the increased environmental focus. But whichever version you choose, your bag is covered for repairs under Osprey's comprehensive warranty. 

Also consider

Helly Hansen Transistor 30

The 30-liter capacity Helly Hansen Transistor 30 is better for longer hikes. It also lacks full waterproofing but has plenty of smaller storage areas, loops, and attachments if you head out with lots of gear.  

Vaude Brenta 30

The Vaude Brenta 30 is another 30-liter bag, but it's cheaper than the Earth Talon 22 and is extremely comfortable. The downside is that the warranty is restrictive and only covers manufacturing defects for two years. 

The Peak Design Travel backpack isn't the largest bag you can find, but I was impressed by how versatile it turned out to be. Traveling can be stressful, especially when you don't have much space to store your bags on a train or overhead compartment on a plane. 

That's why there are so many carry-on approved hard-shell suitcases. But the Peak Design bag is a great option if you want one of the best hiking backpacks you can easily travel with. It's structured, but its flexible frame means you can fit in shoes and other awkwardly shaped items. 

It is more of a travel bag, especially since you can pick up accessories like packing cubes and pouches explicitly designed for this backpack. If you're after a multi-day hiking backpack, you'd be better off with an alternative, but it's an excellent choice if you're regularly on the go. 

Peak Design Travel review: price and warranty

At $230/£219, this is definitely at the higher end for a 30L carry-on bag, and it's available in three colors; Black, Sage, and Midnight (blue). However, if you want the whole experience, you'll need to shell out $60/£48 for a tech pouch and $30/£20 for each packing cube. 

This makes it more expensive than the Helly Hansen Transistor, an excellent (but not waterproof) 30-liter hiking pack for multi-day trips. But it's not directly comparable as the Transistor is designed for extended walks, while the Peak Design Travel caters to travelers. 

But it might be worth the price if you're a frequent flier or take regular short trips away and need to store some lightweight gear. There's a lifetime guarantee, which covers defects and breakages but won't apply to normal wear and tear. 

Peak Design Travel review: design

The first time I used this bag was for a long weekend away for my mom's 80th birthday. I needed to pack day clothes, a party outfit, and running gear to use in the mornings. It felt like a lot to fit in, but the primary zip opens a hole in the back, so it's really easy to pack. 

My 15-inch laptop slid easily into the sleeve, and there was plenty of space for cables in the 11-inch tablet sleeve. The two meshed bottom pockets helped pack underwear, and I put loose running gear, like a headtorch and sleeves, into the long, narrow mesh side pockets.

The rest of my clothing fit into the main compartment once I unzipped the expansion panel. There was also room for chargers, cellphones, and keys in the separate top pocket which is bigger than it looks because it opens up widely. I tied my running shoes to the outside via attachment loops on the front.

I felt confident the bag wouldn't burst open thanks to the zipper pull, and the weatherproof coating and waterproof bottom liner meant everything stayed dry when I trudged from the car to the holiday cottage in the heavy rain.

It's got a thick outer shell, so it feels incredibly durable, too. I liked the magical strap stowage, which prevents loose straps from getting caught in overhead cabins or tangled around a chair leg. And if you want your hiking backpacks to be ethically minded, Peak Design is a certified B Corporation and Fair Trade certified. 

But I wasn't sure about the magnetic flap to stow the carry straps on the front of the bag. It is a handy feature, but the flap seemed to be upside down, as the opening faced the ground when the bag was upright, so the straps could fall out or be difficult to pack away. 

Peak Design Travel review: storage and organization

The Peak Design Travel backpack suits short getaways or trips more than everyday use. The large main compartment unzips around three sides to make it easy to pack, but grabbing a single item is impractical, and clothes spill out if you've packed it tightly. 

I tried it as a swim bag, and it could have been better because there was nowhere separate to store wet items, and the zip mesh pockets where I put my toiletries were underneath all my gear. Plus, it's designed more like a suitcase to be accessed vertically, so it's not ideal for commuting.

But as a piece of portable luggage, it is very effective. The firm structure means it also operates well as a camera bag, especially if you invest in some of the extra technical storage pouches. You can carry some water bottles in the stretchable outside pockets. 

Peak Design Travel review: fit and comfort

Generally, the Peak Design Travel was comfortable enough to carry around an airport or hop onto a train. But the lack of back support, as you'd find on the Vaude Brenta 30, made it uncomfortable for extended periods or while on a walk. 

There are two slightly padded should straps and an adjustable sternum strap which, together with the firm back panel, help to take the strain. If you upgrade to the 45-liter edition of the bag, there's a hip belt. But this version doesn't have that, so it sits heavy on your shoulders. 

Likewise, the back panel digs in slightly and sits directly on your back, causing a build-up of sweat since it isn't aerated either. But the versatility of the design means it is easy to switch to the back, top, or side handle so that you can carry the bag in multiple ways.

Should you buy the Peak Design Travel?

The Peak Design Travel does precisely as it says—it excels as a convenient, easy-to-pack travel bag for overnight getaways and short trips. But it isn't a great option for your next outdoor adventure. The design makes it easy to pack but hard to grab single items. 

Nor does it make a great commuting bag, either. So it fulfills its specific niche very well, but it's not a good all-arounder that you can rely on no matter what you're doing. 

But as a compact travel bag, it's a brilliant backpack—versatile enough to carry on your back or hold like a suitcase. It's tough, spacious, and practical, so it'll see you through years of weekend getaways and business trips. 

Also consider

Fjällräven Ulvö 30

If you're after a high-quality commuter bag, the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 is a great option thanks to its eye-catching design, practical compartments, and excellent waterproofing. 

Vaude Brenta 30

Consider the Vaude Brenta 30 if you're after a comfortable, well-supported hiking backpack. It's one of the most supportive, ventilated options available right now and a great companion for long hot days of hiking. 

As an experienced long-distance walker, I really love backpacks with multiple compartments for easy storage. But these can quickly get complicated to pack, which is why I enjoyed the simplicity of the Patagonia Altvia Daypack. 

It has a straightforward design without dozens of internal pockets and external straps, but it has everything you'd need for a day's hike, which is why I still think it's one of the best hiking backpacks you can get right now. 

The main compartment is spacious and flexible and seems much more significant than its quoted 14-liter capacity. The comfortable bag comes in two sizes, so it suits male and female body types.

Although it doesn't have a host of fancy attachments or design features, it does have enough loops and elastic strapping to hang on helmets, poles, and other external gear.

Patagonia Altvia Daypack review: price and warranty

The Patagonia Altvia Daypack retails for $109/£90, although you can often find it discounted in Patagonia's seasonal sales. This makes it about the same price as the much larger, 30-liter Vaude Brenta 30. 

You can apportion part of this premium price to the Patagonia brand name, but it's also because of the bag's sleek design, which feels high-quality. But for your money, you do get some benefits. 

The company's IronClad guarantee means you can also return an item for repair no matter how old it is (though there's a charge to fix 'reasonable wear and tear'). At the end of its life, Patagonia will take it back for recycling. 

Patagonia Altvia Daypack review: design

For a 14-liter bag, the Altvia has plenty of space, and the main compartment zips open around to the sides, making it super accessible and wide. And I was pleased to find that it can fit a decent amount of clothing, food, and gear.

Impressively, it doesn't feel half the size of many of the 30-liter bags on the market. This is because most of the space is given over to the main section rather than having layers of compartments.

The durable bag comes in grey, black, or orange and is entirely made from recycled nylon and polyester. This makes it stand out, as other brands tend to use a combination of recycled and new materials. 

Patagonia's environmental credentials stretch to the shell, boot, and rain covers. These are all coated with water-resistant polyurethane (PU), free from perfluorinated chemicals that harm the ozone. 

The Patagonia Altvia Daypack comes in three fit sizes (small, medium, and large). And if the 14-liter capacity won't be large enough, the Altvia line extends to 22, 28, and 36-liter editions. 

Patagonia Altvia Daypack review: storage and organization

The main storage area opens from the front and includes a sleeve that could hold a small laptop. At the top of the bag is a shallow pocket with a key clip that is big enough to keep your phone.

You'll also find a medium pocket in the middle of the front panel for climbing clips or loose items. The elastic strapping on the front helps store trekking poles and awkwardly shaped equipment.

Meanwhile, the two hip pockets, although on the small side, can carry a few sweet treats. There are water bottle meshes on each side, but these are relatively shallow, and taller bottles can wiggle free.

Patagonia Altvia Daypack review: fit and comfort

With lightly padded, aerated shoulder straps, the back sits comfortably and has the additional support of the hip belt. The chest straps have five adjustable heights, although the clips to move them up and down are rather fiddly.

The most significant benefit is the breathable back panel which provides enough airflow to prevent heavy sweating on hot days but is not so firm that it digs into your back. There is also a rain cover tucked away in the bottom pocket, which is helpful as the pack itself is only water resistant.

As someone who struggles to find backpacks that fit my smaller build, I was pleasantly surprised with the Altvia and found it easy to wear out on the trails all day. 

It also doesn't feel too big and bulky, so it is easy to throw in the back of the car or slide into the foot well. Its smaller size meant that I found it a good option for everyday use, like a gym bag or commuting backpack, rather like the Fjällräven Ulvö 30.

Patagonia Altvia Daypack review: verdict

The Patagonia Altvia Daypack is an excellent, compact bag with everything you'd need for a day out on a hike. It was easy to carry over extended periods and would be suitable for walkers, hikers, climbers, and commuters. 

There were a few minor drawbacks—the side mesh pockets are pretty shallow, and the hip pockets relatively small—but no notable failings. At just 14 liters, it is pretty compact, so if you're hoping for multi-day trips, you'll be better off with a larger hiking backpack. 

Also consider

Fjällräven Ulvö 30

The Fjällräven Ulvö 30 is another excellent day bag designed for shorter walks and long commutes. It's fully waterproof, has several organization pockets, and has a sleek design. 

Vaude Brenta 30

Alternatively, go large and opt for the Vaude Brenta 30, a 30-liter hiking backpack with a supportive steel frame. The material isn't waterproof but has a rain cover for wet conditions. 

The Helly Hansen Transistor is a good all-around backpack—durable, comfortable, and light enough to wear all day long. I really appreciated the roomy internal storage, too. 

But it doesn't quite fit the best hiking backpack category because, despite ice climbing functions, it doesn't perform well when wet. Frustratingly, the bag isn't fully waterproofed. 

This makes it only a good option if you prefer roaming the trails during more temperate weather. Then you'll find that this unisex backpack can definitely cram in enough gear for a day or even longer.

I put the Helly Hansen Transistor to the test on long hikes through woods and fields, carrying food, water, and spare clothing for the day. Plus, there was enough space for my trekking poles and two liters of water. 

Here's my verdict on how well the Helly Hanson Transistor performed on the trails.

Helly Hansen Transistor review: price and guarantee

The Helly Hansen Transistor retails for $170/£150, which puts it in the middle of the hiking backpacks market at around the same price as the Vaude Brenta 30, and at first glance, it seems like reasonable value for money. 

But the Brenta 30 is the same size, almost the same weight, and price, but it is entirely waterproof. It's hard to justify the cost of the Transistor when it's missing such a crucial feature. 

Helly Hansen offers a two-year warranty but doesn't cover accidental damage or wear and tear and is limited to manufacturing defects. This contrasts with the Fjällräven Ulvö 30, which has a lifetime warranty. 

Helly Hansen Transistor review: design

One of the best things about the Transistor is its size, whether you choose the midnight green or black edition. The flexible shell means you can fit a lot of food, clothes, and gear inside, and there always seems to be more room to give.

The top of the bag opens and folds down, making it extremely easy to access the inside. The material appears durable, and my feeling is that you should get several years of use out of the backpack.

The bag's design is relatively standard, though the elastic cord webbing is great for attaching items like trekking poles. But there are more attractive ways to approach functional features. 

You get several specialist features, like webbing and Velcro strips for ice axes, and the attachment loops can also hold your poles. However, you'd need to take the bag off to reach them. 

But the big downside is the waterproofing—the fabric has a waterproof coating (fine for light rain), but the seams aren't sealed, so water can easily seep in. So you'd need to add a dry liner for wet walks. 

Helly Hansen Transistor review: storage and organization

There's plenty of space inside the Transistor, so it's ideal for carrying heavy winter gear or enough for a few days in the summer months. And, importantly, there are meshed side pockets for one-liter water bottles for hiking. 

You can access the bottom pocket without taking the bag off, while the hip belt has small mesh pockets for storing your keys, snacks, and other small items, but not something rigid like your phone. 

Inside, there's an inner sleeve and top meshed zippered pocket with a key clip. I found this particularly useful for loose items I didn't want falling to the bottom of the main pocket. 

Helly Hansen Transistor review: fit and comfort

Although this is a unisex one-size pack, there is some adjustability around the torso. The sternum strap can be adjusted to six heights, making it more suitable for women than other backpacks. 

It also includes a clever whistle built into the fastening clip. Meanwhile, the main straps are nicely padded, meaning even when the bag is fully loaded, it is comfortable to carry.

And the hip area support helps distribute the weight, and the hip belt is made of foam with a mesh to keep things cool. There's also a mesh on the back panel, but it sits directly on your back, so some sweating is still inevitable.

Since the bag is relatively light and the fabric is thin, it never feels like you are heaving around a big load, even when hiking all day. One downfall is that the back length of 45 cm may be too short for taller hikers because the top tension straps on the shoulder straps sit too low, making them redundant.

Helly Hansen Transistor review: verdict

While the Helly Hansen has many of the hallmarks of a great walking backpack, it's best suited to someone after lots of storage, loops, and straps for when you've got plenty of gear. 

I was impressed by how light it felt and wasn't uncomfortable wearing it over extended periods. But it takes a lot of work to get over the half-finished waterproofing, especially at this price. 

Also consider

Fjällräven Ulvö 30

The Fjällräven Ulvö 30 is an excellent all-rounder with exceptional waterproofing and multiple pockets, although it has fewer loops and straps for attaching external items.

Vaude Brenta 30

The Vaude Brenta 30 is slightly cheaper at $150/£140 and comes with a rain cover, adjustable back length, and greater ventilation via its suspension frame. It's made from recycled materials, too.

There's nothing worse than trying to find an item in a jammed backpack with a single top-access zipper. You have to pull everything out and then repack, which isn't ideal, especially on longer walks. 

Fortunately, this isn't a problem you'll have with the Vaude Brenta 30, thanks to the large side zipper, which gives access from the front and top. This alone makes it a contender for one of the best hiking backpacks. 

But it stands out because the adjustable height options, effective ventilation, and considered network of pockets make it a great all-rounder; comfortable to wear all day but flexible enough for long, wet hikes. 

I tested it on hilly day hikes and found there was plenty of spare room after loading it with two of my favorite water bottles for hiking, a packed lunch, snacks, trekking poles, an extra jacket, and a battery.

Vaude Brenta 30 review: price and warranty

At $150/£140, the bag is good value for money and is about the same price as the similarly sized Helly Hansen Transistor. The company offers a repair service and has online guides to help you fix broken buckles and replace straps. 

Unlike some with some outdoor brands, there isn't an extended warranty, so you're covered for two years against material defects or production errors, but anything else is subject to a repair charge. 

Vaude Brenta 30 review: design

With its soft shell, this 30-liter bag has plenty of capacity, although it is long and narrow rather than wide. Its most significant selling point is that you can access the main compartment from the top and side. 

And there's a water and stain-resistant finish on the outside, so water just pearls on the surface and runs off. This will do for light rain, but there's also a rain cover and drawstring for heavier downpours. 

Despite being made from a soft material, the pack seemed tough and durable while walking. Vaude also makes a big deal of its environmental credentials, like using recycled plastic for 50% of the polyester outer body.

Vaude Brenta 30 review: storage and organization

I love having multiple pockets and compartments for easy organization, so this is where the Vaude Brenta 30 worked well for me. Aside from the main compartment, you can access a top pocket from the outside. 

In this pocket, there's a key hook, cell phone sleeve, and inner zipped pocket, which I found helpful for smaller loose items. On either side of the bag, there's a bottle mesh, which easily carries a liter bottle. 

These are the primary storage areas, but several smaller ones are dotted around the bag, too, like the small zipped pocket on the right side of the padded hip strap or the front stretch pocket. 

I used this for retractable poles, but you could use it for any item you need quick access to, like a jacket. Rounding things off, there are several loops and clips for trekking poles, sunglasses, and hydration systems. 

Vaude Brenta 30 review: fit and comfort

After wearing the bag for several walks, I found it scores very highly for fit and comfort. It's clear that a lot of thought has gone into creating an ergonomic design that's comfortable even over longer periods. 

You can shift the back height up or down to distribute the load and customize the bag for your body. This is a great system, but it's unclear how to use it initially. 

Confusingly, the loop that says 'pull' is not actually what you pull. However, once I worked out the correct part of the strap, it was relatively easy to maneuver into the right spot for my torso. 

I was impressed with the shoulder straps, which are easily the most comfortable I've ever tested. These straps are wider than on most bags, so they rest directly on your shoulder and are narrower under your arms. 

This means they're comfortable for women around the chest as they don't dig in or make you feel constricted. Plus, you can adjust the chest strap, making it adaptable to different upper body shapes. 

Like the other straps, the hip straps provide additional support and have a mesh lining to increase airflow. This was useful, but the most significant impact on the bag's ventilation came from the steel frame, which helps distribute the load. 

But it also creates a gap between your body and the bag's fabric so that sweat won't get stuck to the rear side of the pack. So, the Vaude Brenta 30 is an ideal choice if you'll be out walking in hot conditions, but that does mean it's slightly heavier than other similarly sized bags. 

Vaude Brenta 30 review: verdict

The Vaude Brenta 30 is a versatile bag great for hikers looking for something that will adjust to their shape, size, and height. While the inside storage space is narrow, many additional compartments exist for multiple items. 

I was impressed with the excellent ventilation, which also makes this a good backpack for hotter climates. The shoulder straps are some of the most comfortable I've ever tried, and I couldn't fault the adjustable design. 

It's such an impressive all-rounder that it's hard to find any downsides. It is a little narrow and initially tricky to adjust the height, but these are minor niggles on an otherwise flawless hiking backpack. 

Also consider

Helly Hansen Transistor

If you want something with more expansive internal space that can pack enough gear for a couple of days, the Helly Hansen Transistor is a good alternative. The only downside is the lack of waterproofing or rain cover.

Fjällräven Ulvö 30

If you're looking for a stylish commuter pack with endless pockets, the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 has masses of space and won't let you down if there's a sudden downpour, thanks to its near-impenetrable waterproofing.

Many would say that the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sports are the company's first set of premium workout headphones. Bang & Olufsen (B&O) is well-known for its high-end sound and premium design. But exercise earbuds? Not so much. 

That's why these headphones are such a welcome surprise. Other high-end audio brands have tried to make a pair of the best workout earbuds, but the results haven't always been worth the money like the Edifier Neobuds Pro. 

Thankfully, I didn't have to worry about that here; the Beoplay E8 Sports were comfortable to wear for extended periods, stayed in during exercise, and my music sounded great. Plus, they come with water and sweat resistance — handy for intense workouts. 

While exercising outside, I appreciated the earbuds' Transparency mode, which lets you hear what's happening around you. But it did highlight the most significant omission here; noise cancellation, which is a disappointment at this price. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: price and features

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport retail for $350/£300, which is a substantial investment, especially since they were released in July 2020. This makes them more expensive than the latest generation of the Apple AirPods Pro and top exercise earbuds like the Jabra Elite 7 Active. 

You can often pick them up on a deal, but the headline figure doesn't vary much. It's not surprising given that B&O is a premium audio brand and always prices its products as such, but if you're looking for a set you can throw around during exercise, it's a big ask. 

For your money, you do get a fairly feature-packed set of buds with IP57 water resistance, customizable audio with the B&O smartphone app, and touch-sensitive controls on each earbud, although I found these a bit sensitive at times, and I ended up accidentally changing the track. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: sound quality

The standout feature of any Bang & Olufsen product is the sound quality. So, I was interested in trying the Beoplay E8 Sport and seeing if the company had sacrificed audio quality for sports-focused design. Fortunately, that wasn't the case. 

Once I pressed play, it didn't feel like every detail is the song was thrown at you all at once. Instead, the track sounds like a well-balanced whole, even when I was out jogging at a fairly reasonable pace. After using them for a while, they quickly became my go-to wireless earbuds. 

While running, I also tried the Transparency mode, which uses microphones to play external sounds into your ears so you can hear traffic and other important environmental noises. Generally, this was a helpful experience, but not always. 

There are three modes; high, medium, and low. I found low offered the best mix of noises and music so that I could hear traffic and loud noises but little else. In contrast, the high setting meant that the wind noise overpowered my music. 

This isn't helped by the lack of active noise cancellation (ANC). This is a standard feature on workout earbuds at this price; you can even find ANC on budget-friendly, sub-$100 options like the Honor Earbuds 2 Lite, so it is disappointing B&O left it out. 

There is excellent noise isolation, though, aided by the solid fit. Only a little gets through when the Transparency mode is off. However, should you need more insulation from gym music, B&O includes several swappable foam tips you can use to improve the fit. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: design and comfort

Unsurprisingly for a brand focused on premium design, the Beoplay E8 Sport look fantastic. The buds are made of aluminum and plastic and weigh just 6.4g each, so they are lightweight and comfortable in your ears, even over extended periods.

Thanks to the silicon buds and winged tips, they fit nicely and snugly in the ear without feeling like they're going to drop out. I could run at full pace without risking the buds falling out. This is critical when running the trails, especially if you're paying $350 for them.

The outer bud, featuring the B&O branding, doubles as a touch-sensitive pad for controlling the buds without delving into the app or music player. Different sequences control things like volume, skipping tracks, and pausing music, as well as the buds' Transparency mode and ability to handle phone calls. 

I have mixed feelings about the touch controls. They can be great, but it's not always easy to be precise when you're running at pace. I often activated the controls accidentally when attempting to twist the buds back to a tight fit.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: battery life

Battery life is always a worry, especially if you're heading out for a longer run or extended gym session. Thankfully, I didn't feel there was any risk of these buds suddenly dying on you — the battery lasts around seven hours and can be topped up with the charging case. 

The case offers three full recharges, promising around 30 hours of playback from a single charge. When you finally need to plug into a USB-C charger, a 20-minute charge gets you another 90 minutes of use. And the front-facing LEDs flash green once you're good to go. 

Helpfully, the B&O mobile app lets you know how much charge you're carrying at any time, with measurements for both earbuds. That's important because you can use one bud if you want to keep the other ear free for chatting with a friend. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: user reviews

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport currently hold a rating of 3.8 out of five on Amazon from over 1,500 reviews. The general consensus is that the wireless buds sound great, fit well, and have great battery life, but there are a few common problems. 

Many users report difficulties connecting the headphones to the smartphone, while the fit didn't convince others. And some were disappointed the buds didn't come with a great selection of tips. However, for most, these were the top earbuds they'd tried. 

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport review: verdict

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Sport easily live up to the company's reputation for high-quality audio; the sound is well-balanced, the fit is comfortable, and there are exercise-friendly features like water resistance and secure tips. 

Where they come undone is the price — it's hard to justify spending $300 on a set of workout earbuds that could fall out on a run or accidentally have a weight fall on them. And it's disappointing that they miss out on key features like noise cancellation but cost more than the competition. 

Also consider

Jabra Elite 7 Active

The Jabra Elite 7 Active are an alternative set of lightweight workout earbuds. The ShakeGrip design means you don't need multiple tips or wings to keep them in place, and they sound great too. Importantly, they do come with noise cancellation and are half the price. 

Honor Earbuds 2 Lite

The Honor Earbuds 2 Lite have an AirPods-inspired design, with an all-white body and stem-based design. The budget-friendly buds have a transparency mode, noise cancellation, and last 10 hours out of the case. And you could buy five sets for the price of the Beoplay E8 Sport. 

As an ultra runner, I am used to wearing a small running vest to carry my fuel, water, and mandatory race kit. But my forthcoming 250k challenge across Tanzania will involve much more hiking, so I felt it was time to find a great hiking backpack.

I immediately fell in love with the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 because, unlike most bulky backpacks, which seem to have straps and elastic strings hanging off, it has an attractive minimalist design with space to hang trekking poles. 

Marketed as an all-rounder, I decided to test it out on the trails as well as the train track. I used it for five-hour training hikes through fields and up hills, but I also tested it out on my weekly 90-minute commute on the train. 

As someone who likes to organize, I was exceptionally impressed with the usefulness of the backpack, which allowed me to order my kit (phone, food, water, treats, cables, spare battery, head torch, poles, and spare clothes) into lots of different spaces.

But unlike my running vests, which come in different sizes and have different male and female versions, the unisex, one-size design of the Ulvö 30 did not fit my body type that well. This was a real shame because everything else about it was perfect.

Fjällräven Ulvö 30 review: price and warranty

The Fjällräven Ulvö 30 retails for $150/£150 and is available in two colors; Black and Mountain Blue. This bag has a 30-liter capacity, but there is a smaller 23-liter edition, the Fjällräven Ulvö 23, which is functionally and aesthetically similar but costs $125/£125.  

There is a Limited Lifetime Warranty (so long as you have proof of purchase from an authorized retailer), but it doesn't cover accidental damage from stains, sun damage, or wear and tear to the zippers and fabric. 

Fjällräven Ulvö 30 review: design

Despite its slim line design, this backpack is larger inside than it looks. The base extends downwards, and the 30-liter capacity is more than adequate for a day's worth of food, hiking gear, and spare clothing. 

You access the bag's internal storage from the top, which makes it easy to load up, but it also means you need to unzip it entirely if you want to grab something from inside. The Bergshell waterproofing is highly effective, with water droplets rolling off the material as soon as they hit.

The Ulvö 30 is a very good-looking bag with a stylish look more suited to the city commuter than your average hiker. This is not surprising given that the Swedish company has a reputation for well-designed apparel, and the bag is marketed as a daypack for traveling and everyday use.

Fjällräven Ulvö 30 review: storage and organization

What I absolutely loved about this backpack was the number of pockets and meshes to stash away different items. The spacious main compartment is divided into two sections, plus a padded laptop pocket for a device up to 15 inches. 

There is also a large zippered front top pocket plus an attachment loop for a bike lamp. Inside this top pocket are two more zippered sections ideal for storing smaller items like cables and chargers.

There are two meshed sections on either side for carrying bottles and a sneaky zippered side pocket just big enough to store a small cell phone or emergency sweets. Since my walking poles fold into three sections, there were plenty of places to keep them, including the side meshes. 

Fjällräven Ulvö 30 review: fit and comfort

For everyday use, such as a commute on the train, the fit and comfort were more than adequate. Unfortunately, for longer hikes, the unisex fit did not seem to accommodate women very well.

The chest strap and hip belt, which can be detached, helped to hold the pack in place and take the strain off my back. But as a slight woman, I found a lot of spare strap length flapping about and no obvious place to tidy it away.

The back has a mesh to help with ventilation, but sweat is still inevitable since the bag sits directly on your back. My major gripe was that I needed to pull the chest straps quite tight due to my small size. This resulted in the main vertical straps curving inwards, digging into my chest right in the middle of my breasts.

Although it'd be fine to fit the bag loosely when jumping on and off the train and for short walks, for long hikes with a lot of weight in the back, I needed the straps tighter to take the strain. But this resulted in an uncomfortable fit around the chest, though by broader, flat-chested husband was more happy with the fit. 

Fjällräven Ulvö 30 review: verdict

I loved the look and practicality of this backpack, which was brilliant as a commuter bag or for a picnic with the kids. However, the unisex fit only works for some body shapes, which is a real shame as I'd love to be able to use it for long hikes too.

Although you could use it on shorter walks, the top-loading design makes it slightly awkward to access essentials without stopping. The thoughtful design means plenty of places to store all your daily essentials and keep them organized. 

Whether this is the right hiking backpack for you depends on the types of walks you prefer. This is a great option if you're after a mid-sized bag with an attractive design. But you might be better with one of these alternatives if you're after a more traditional hiking or commuting backpack. 

Also consider

Fjällräven Ulvö 23

If you're after a daily commuting backpack, there's the Fjällräven Ulvö 23, a 23-liter edition of thw Ulvö, which may be more practical for shorter walks or hikes of less than three hours. It has the same design; it's just slightly smaller and cheaper. 

Helly Hansen Transistor

The Helly Hansen Transistor is more of a traditional hiking backpack, with greater hip support and straps with slightly more padding for extra comfort. This 30-liter bag also has mesh ventilation to keep things cool and trekking pole attachments. 

The Fitbit Sense is more than just a fitness tracker or a smartwatch. Fitbit has tried to make an all-around wellness and health wearable, and one of the best Fitbit watches available right now. 

This sort of thing often raises an eyebrow, as technology companies regularly over-hype their new releases. But the Fitbit Sense really does have more sensors than almost any other wearable. It is not called "Sense" for nothing. 

The company's fitness trackers have long been the go-to standard for monitoring your day-to-day activities, but the Sense blends with this with stress-tracking, mindfulness-promoting tools, and running-friendly features like onboard GPS location tracking. 

But the Sense sits in a strange middle ground between fitness tracker and smartwatch; it's better than a standard tracker, but it isn't as well-equipped as the Apple Watch or as good at sports tracking as the Garmin Venu 2 Plus. 

If you're already invested in the Fitbit ecosystem or prefer the company's more user-friendly approach to fitness and well-being monitoring, here's why it's one of the best value for money fitness watches you can get right now. 

Fitbit Sense review: price and features

The Fitbit Sense was released in November 2020 and originally retailed at the top of the range, costing $329/£300. This made it substantially more expensive than the similar-looking Versa 3. 

But for the extra money, the Sense comes with an ECG sensor for heart rate monitoring and an EDA sensor for sweat and stress tracking. However, in late 2022, Fitbit launched the Sense 2, an upgraded model.

So, as of early 2023, you can pick the original Sense up for around $219/£200. This makes it a more budget-friendly way to pick up a top-of-the-range fitness tracker, especially since the Sense 2 only comes with relatively modest updates. 

As you'd expect, the Sense allows you to monitor your heart rate, steps, sleep, and workouts alongside the previously mentioned stress and ECG trackers. At a glance, it's a similar feature set to the Apple Watch, but the experience isn't as slick. 

But you get some impressive features for your money, like water resistance up to 5ATM (so you can wear it while swimming or showering), check your smartphone's notifications, and even respond to messages from the watch. 

Fitbit Sense review: design

Fitbit borrowed and tweaked the design of the Versa-series watches for the Sense. It's a rounded square, intended to look friendly and arguably less angular than many smartwatches. 

The Fitbit Sense's entire body is metal, the top is toughened glass, and you can easily switch out the straps if you don't lie the fold-over loop of the standard silicone one.

But there's also a pressure-sensitive button on the side of the watch. You can't see it, but pressing it wakes the display and sends you to the home menu. However, we weren't impressed. 

Our experience with this so-called button could have been faster and more consistent, so we can't help but feel that an actual button might have been better. 

The display doesn't compare favorably against the competition either, looking less vibrant than the Apple Watch and having rougher-looking text than on many Garmin watches. 

On the positive side, we liked that its brightness changes to suit the ambient light level, and the data is clearly displayed. Seeing your stats as you run on a sunny day is no problem. 

Fitbit Sense review: features

The sensors are the main difference between the Sense and the Fitbit Versa 3. As we discussed earlier, the Sense comes with a heart-monitoring ECG and a stress-sensing EDA sensor. 

The electrocardiogram (ECG) can alert you to irregular heart rhythms, but you need to start this scan manually. It takes 30 seconds, and then you can browse the report using the Fitbit app on your smartphone. 

The EDA sensor, meanwhile, tracks how much you sweat and uses that as an indicator of your current stress levels. It's an exciting feature, but we didn't think it was ideal that you must manually start this scan, suggesting you may have reason to check your stress. 

However, if you compare the Fitbit Sense vs Fitbit Sense 2, you'll see that the upgraded model continually monitors using the EDA sensor, offering all-day stress tracking. 

We were initially pleased to see the inclusion of a blood oxygen monitor (the SpO2 sensor), which can, in theory, help alert you to breathing issues like sleep apnea. 

But after a few manual scans, which often show the same result (or thereabouts), maintaining interest is challenging. This value is more interesting in the longer term, so you can spot if something goes amiss. 

This was our experience with the Fitbit Sense — there are a lot of features, but most aren't really that interesting, and the company doesn't really offer any guidance on what to do with the information. 

Disappointingly, the company has also dropped support for music sync to the watch, so you're now limited to the pre-installed Spotify or Deezer apps, but you'll still need your phone nearby to use either service. 

Fitbit Sense review: fitness tracking

The Fitbit Sense's headline features might focus on the health side of things, but it still has everything it needs for classic exercise and run tracking. There's GPS for fully tracked phone-free runs and a heart rate sensor. 

We went for a couple of runs wearing the Fitbit Sense, a Garmin Venu 2, and a chest strap heart rate sensor. During the run, the results looked promising. The Sense seemed to react to changes quickly, and the on-screen readings looked reasonably accurate. 

But the graph in the Fitbit app told a different story. There were lots of strange spikes that didn't match the run and weren't picked up on the other two wearables either. 

Because of this, it's hard to recommend the Fitbit Sense if you're keen on tracking your heart rate during your workouts. However, its GPS accuracy fared a lot better, even if it initially takes a while to locate you. 

Frustratingly, the company (now owned by Google) has decided to restrict the number of free workouts you get with the watch, and has locked the main bulk of its fitness content behind Fitbit Premium. 

This subscription costs $9.99/£9.99 per month or an extra $120 per year on top of the watch's price. The Fitbit Sense might have come down in price now, but that makes the service even worse value for money, as two years of Premium doubles the total cost. 

Fitbit Sense review: battery life

Many people avoid smartwatches because there's a perception you need to charge them every day. That's certainly true of some, but we found the Sense lasts around four days.

This is still below Fitbit's quoted six days, but at least you won't have to top up every evening. You can extend it in a pinch by disabling the always-on display and not using many power-hungry features like location tracking or ECG tests. 

Still, should you find the battery logo start to flash red, you'll be pleased to know that the Fitbit Sense only takes around an hour to recharge. And the magnetic dock is relatively straightforward to connect. 

Fitbit Sense review: verdict

The Fitbit Sense accelerates the company's transition from fitness tracking to a more holistic health-monitoring wearable. It's not ideal for runners or experienced exercisers, but it's designed to aid you in daily life. 

But for the price, you'd expect a little more. Fitbit doesn't really offer guidance on what to do with the massive amounts of data it gathers, and many analysis features are hidden behind the Fitbit Premium paywall. 

Our experience with the first-generation Sense made us feel like Fitbit is still working out how to make a 'wellness watch' to compete with the Apple Watch. It's still a great fitness tracker, but there are better value alternatives for your money. 

Also consider

Fitbit Versa 3

The Fitbit Versa 3 looks almost identical to the Sense and is almost the same watch but slightly thicker without the ECG and stress-tracking tech. It also has the same interface and integrates with the Fitbit app for when you want to drill down into the data. 

Apple Watch Series 8

Although not the first company to create a fitness-tracking watch, the Apple Watch is considered the gold standard for most people. It has similar sensors to the Sense but also integrates with Apple's other services, overlay your stats when working out with Apple Fitness+, track your heart health, and contact the emergency services if you have an accident. 

When something sounds too good to be true, it often is. So when the Carol Bike 2.0 claimed to provide “the shortest, most effective workouts — backed by science” I was understandably dubious.

I was able to get hold of one of these machines for testing and, while I didn’t have a lab team at my disposal to verify the physiological effects of these time-efficient sessions, I can say the Carol Bike does serve up fast, fun workouts unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. It’s for this reason I felt it was worthy of a spot on our roundup of the best exercise bikes.

The bike is designed to burn calories and boost aerobic capacity as quickly and efficiently as possible (we dive into the science of this in the platform and performance sections below). This makes it a great fit for those who are short on time, though its future-facing approach to fitness doesn’t come cheap.  

If you’re a fan of traditional gym sessions or Peloton-esque follow-along studio classes, it’s not for you. However, if you struggle to find time to exercise and are trying to find a more efficient workout option, I think the Carol Bike 2.0 could be an ideal solution.

• Buy Carol Bike 2.0 from the Carol store

Carol Bike 2.0: Price and availability 

The Carol Bike 2.0 is the second generation of the brand’s revolutionary exercise machine. It was released in late 2022, and has a more polished aesthetic than its predecessor as well as new handlebars that offer a choice of five grip positions. It has also replaced the in-built handlebar heart monitor with a wearable chest strap that comes with the machine.  

The model is available in the UK, US and Canada, but its premium performance is matched by a premium price tag. It will set you back $2,595 in the US, or £2,595 in the UK. To access the app, you will also have to pay a $15/£15 per month membership fee.  

Carol Bike 2.0: Design and features

In my opinion, the Carol Bike 2.0 looks better than the first iteration of the machine, and most other exercise bikes for that matter. The black and silver finish, twinned with the chrome flywheel, has a premium feel. The only thing that let it down slightly is the 11in display, which is clearly a tablet masquerading as an in-built touchscreen, but this doesn’t affect performance at all.  

The screen can be tilted and pivoted, which saves taller users like me from having to uncomfortably crane their necks, and you can also use it to download other apps through the Google Play store. Carol says the bike integrates with apps like Peloton, Zwift and YouTube, though for the purposes of this test I stuck to the company’s own platform. 

You can change the height and positioning of the seat and handlebars to find a comfortable, effective cycling position, as you’d expect from a bike of this caliber. I also liked the five grip positions offered by the handlebars as they allowed me to switch my body shape and lean into intense sprints. 

Carol Bike 2.0: Classes and platform

The Carol platform, accessed via the touchscreen, is minimalist but effective (again, well-catered to anyone who wants an efficient workout). There are just six options, with three intense REHIT (reduced exertion high-intensity interval training) classes, fat burn rides, free and custom rides, and fitness tests. 

REHIT is Carol’s ace in the hole, and the reason this bike can promise such quick yet effective workouts. It involves minimal sprint durations and repetitions (in Carol’s case, two 20-second all-out sprints split by short, slow-paced recovery rides lasting between one and three minutes). As a result, these REHIT workouts only take between five and nine minutes. 

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that eight weeks of REHIT “elicited more potent, time-efficient improvements to cardiorespiratory fitness and cardiometabolic health when compared to traditional moderate-intensity continuous training”. Or, in simple terms, it was able to boost people’s heart and lung health in a fraction of the time of a longer run, row or cycle. 

The fat burn rides are more traditional interval sessions, involving a two-minute warm-up, 30 eight-second sprints followed by 12 second rests, then a three-minute cool-down. 

Free rides allow you to ride the bike and play with the resistance in any way you want. There's also a handful of fitness tests, accessible via the app, which can keep tabs on improvements to your performance while also providing a fun way to measure yourself against fellow Carol Bike owners.

Carol Bike 2.0: Performance

The Carol Bike 2.0 works excellently as an exercise bike, with a heavy flywheel that moves smoothly, a sturdy frame that didn’t budge when I was sprinting at top speeds, and a near-silent magnetic brake system that never juddered. The resistance is tailored to you using an AI-based system to ensure you get the intended results, and I definitely found by the end of each sprint my legs felt well and truly sapped of strength. 

But the bike’s primary appeal lies in its promise to provide the health and fitness benefits of a 45-minute run in a five-minute workout with REHIT, and that’s what comes under scrutiny here. In the Carol Bike’s case, these workouts come in one of two forms; intense sessions and fat burn sessions. 

Research published by the American Council on Exercise found this type of activity burned fewer calories than 30-minute moderate intensity sessions and 20-minute vigorous sessions on a treadmill. 

That's disappointing news, but there’s more to these results than meets the eye. You see, both intense rides and fat-burning rides on the Carol Bike elicited greater EPOC (post-exercise exercise consumption). Or, to put it another way, the bike workouts (particularly the fat burn ride) boosted people’s post-exercise metabolism so they continued to burn more calories for several hours after exercise had finished.

On average, when combining the in-exercise calorie burn and EPOC figures, the 30-minute moderate-intensity treadmill session burned 227.7 calories, the 20-minute vigorous-intensity treadmill session burned 230.6, the 8.40-minute intense Carol Bike workout burned 131.1 calories, and the 15-minute fat-burn workout on the Carol Bike burned a winning total of 281.2 calories. 

So, you get an impressive return on investment from both workouts, considering how short they are. I found I walked away from the intense rides feeling like I’d barely exercised at all, as the vast majority of the session has you pedaling at a snail’s pace. The fat burn rides, on the other hand, were nothing short of brutal and left me in dire need of a shower. 

Overall, I can’t say for sure that the shorter intense sessions are an oven-ready substitute for other forms of cardio like running or HIIT workouts, and I’ll definitely be keeping these traditional methods in my fitness routine for the foreseeable future.

Carol Bike 2.0: Data and metrics

As you might expect from a machine this forward-facing, there is no shortage of data and metrics on the Carol Bike 2.0. 

While riding, you’ll be shown your power in Watts, cadence and heart rate on three dials, as well as a progress bar telling you when your next sprint is and a real-time line graph showing your power-based performance. 

The top of the screen also displays a running written narrative to talk you through the session (which you can opt to have read out if you prefer). This features useful facts about why you’re doing what you’re doing, as well as some left-field audiobook-style dramatizations about embodying your Neanderthal ancestors and fleeing sabertooth tigers when it comes to the sprint sections. 

These took me by surprise somewhat, but they were certainly an...interesting approach to motivation. 

After each session, you’ll receive a ride summary containing everything from your peak power to your calorie burn to your peak heart rate (courtesy of the chest-worn heart rate strap included with the machine). You can also see data on historic rides, including the number of calories you have burned including EPOC. 

Finally, you’ll have the chance to compare your results and scores on the fitness tests with other Carol Bike-users, which (as a very competitive person) I really enjoyed. 

Carol Bike 2.0: Verdict

When it comes to time-efficient training tools, the Carol Bike 2.0 has better credentials than most. The claim that you can get a great workout in just five minutes is incredible, and the (admittedly limited) research lends it a decent amount of weight. I found the REHIT workouts were like no other exercise method I’ve tried before, leaving me feeling fresh and sweat-free, whereas the fat burn sessions soon had me back to my sweaty best. Whichever one you choose, however, you won’t need more than 15 minutes. 

The lack of follow-along video workouts is a miss for the price, particularly if you enjoy the motivating instructors of Peloton and its competitors, but if you’re after a time-efficient session then I don’t think the Carol Bike 2.0 can be beaten. 

• Buy Carol Bike 2.0 from the Carol store

Also consider...

Peloton Bike +

If you want a more traditional exercise bike workout, the Peloton Bike+ is still the undisputed master of its craft. The price may be eye-watering (though you can pick up the original Peloton at a cheaper price) but the performance is unquestionable. It’s exceptionally well-made, looks great and has a seemingly infinite platform filled with fun follow-along workouts, each led by an enthusiastic instructor. The touchscreen is super simple to use, and it’s got something for beginners and avid exercisers alike.  

Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike

If it’s the high price that’s putting you off the Carol Bike 2.0, or the Peloton Bike+ above, then the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike could be for you. It has an MSRP of $439.99 but is often discounted to under $300, and it has everything you need for a comprehensive cardio workout. The flywheel moves smoothly, a simple monitor displays metrics like speed, distance and estimated calorie burn, and the adjustable seat is comfortable for long rides. Don’t expect fancy features like a touchscreen for the price, but you can follow video workouts from your phone or tablet.  

The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike offers something most competitors can’t – a refreshingly simple ride at a refreshingly affordable price. And that’s the beauty of it. 

Having tested some of the best exercise bikes on the market, I hopped into the hotseat of this budget option expecting to be somewhat underwhelmed, but came away feeling quite the opposite. You see, while Peloton pioneered the smart fitness tech revolution, there’s a lot to be said for a bike that does the basics well. 

With a comfortable seat, sturdy build and budget LCD monitor, this model has everything you need for a spin-style workout. We actually prefer it for interval training sessions where you’re switching between exercise moves, as you can jump on the bike without having to load up any digital screens – so you can save precious seconds during a minute-long sprint. 

Price and availability

The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is available on Amazon with an MSRP of $439.99. However, it is frequently featured in significant sales (at the time of writing it was down 36% to $279.99) so it’s worth keeping an eye out for discounts.  

Design and features

This Yosuda bike is made from sturdy steel, providing a stable base for long rides and interval sprints alike. There are also dials on each rubber foot, so you can adjust the height to suit uneven floors. 

It’s comfortable too, with a plush seat offering far more cushioning than the Peloton Bike+ and Wattbike equivalents. But it’s still fully adjustable, with the option to move the seat up and down (along with the handlebar) as well as forwards or backwards to create an optimal cycling position for all bodies.

With a 40in x 22in footprint, the bike is compact enough to fit in most home workout spaces, while the weighty flywheel provides smooth yet near-silent resistance so you won’t annoy anyone with noisy early-morning workouts.

There are a wide range of resistance settings you can switch between using a classic, easy-to-reach spin bike dial located on the frame between your knees, so you can taper your training to suit your strength and fitness level.

Performance

I found the Yosuda bike to be a delight to ride. During a steady-pace 60 minute session, the cushioned seat kept me comfortable and the heavy flywheel moved smoothly throughout. The tablet holder on the handlebars was a blessing too, as I was able to chip away at my Netflix watchlist while working out. 

This wasn’t an option for the more intense sessions that followed; a set of sweaty sprint intervals and a circuit-style EMOM workout involving planks, push-ups and cycling.

Through the sprint intervals, the sturdy bike stayed secure on the floor with minimal wobbling, even when I really pushed the pedals to the metal. But the EMOM workout was where the Yosuda really came into its own. 

For a total of 15 minutes I performed a 60 second plank during the first minute, 20 push-ups during the second and accumulated ten calories on the bike in the third before restarting the cycle. Because the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is so simple, I was able to hop on and start riding in seconds without scrolling through endless options on a touchscreen. The monitor also retained my data from the previous round, allowing me to pick up where I left off each round. 

So, if you’re looking for a straightforward yet versatile at-home training tool that doesn’t take up too much space or cost the earth, I’d say the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike ticks every box. 

Classes and platform

If you want to make the most of this exercise bike, you’re going to have to be something of a self-starter. Where Peloton and the like serve you workouts on a plate, hence their hefty price tags, the Yosuda Cycling Bike doesn’t even have any preset programs, leaving you to source your own workouts. 

Luckily, we can help with that. If you’re stuck for ideas, give these three 20-minute exercise bike workouts to challenge every fitness level a go.

Alternatively, you can find an almost infinite resource of exercise bike workouts online and on YouTube. Or, if you want a follow-along video session, you can use apps like Peloton and iFit with the bike via your phone or tablet (you just won’t have the metrics sent from your bike to your phone, and will have to adjust the resistance yourself).

Data and metrics

Speaking of metrics, the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike provides baseline data, showing you total time elapsed, speed, distance and calories. If you want to monitor things like your heart rate and cadence, you’ll have to fork out for additional monitoring tools.

Keeping things simple (the Yosuda’s speciality) the monitor only has a single button, which can be used to flick through the different metrics or held to reset your workout. You can also leave it on a “scan” mode that will cycle through the different data every few seconds. 

Verdict

The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike’s strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. It’s compact, sturdy, and stable, with a plush seat which can be adjusted four ways to create a comfortable cycling position. 

The ride is smooth and near-silent, and it’s brilliant for circuit training as you can just hop on and start cycling. It doesn’t have the touchscreen or follow-along workouts of smarter counterparts like the Peloton Bike+, but it doesn’t have their high price tags either, and can often be picked up for under $300 in an Amazon sale. So, I think this is an excellent training tool for anyone wanting to get a sweat on at home on a budget. 

Also consider…

Peloton Bike+

The Peloton Bike+ is our top-rated exercise bike for a reason; it’s a brilliant machine boasting a sleek design, robust build and a captivating app crammed with thousands of workouts (all displayed on a cinematic touchscreen). The up-front cost, paired with the app’s membership fee, will put many people off. But if you want a comprehensive home training tool and this is within your budget, there’s no exercise bike we’d recommend more highly. 

Wattbike Atom

The Peloton Bike+ is the ideal bike for those who want to stay in shape at home, but the studio classes might not satisfy avid cyclists. The Wattbike Atom, on the other hand, is designed with realism in mind, offering smooth electromagnetic resistance controlled by “gears'' on the handlebars. It’s not as user-friendly as the Peloton for newcomers, but if you’re serious about your cycling and fitness then we think you’ll love it.  

The innovative JAXJOX DumbbellConnect can improve your home workouts immeasurably, helping you build muscle and burn calories while saving you time, space and money. How do I know this? Because I got my hands on a pair and pitted them against some of the best adjustable dumbbells currently on the market in a series of rigorous tests. 

Safe to say from that introduction, I was impressed by the self-professed world’s first digital dumbbell. Their clever weight-changing mechanism meant I could make the dumbbells lighter or heavier in seconds, with minimal effort, making them ideal for putting the progressive overload principle into practice. And, with each dumbbell offering eight weight options from 8lb-50lb (all contained within one compact package) there’s something to suit lifters of most experience levels. 

They look great too, setting themselves apart from the customarily bulky adjustable dumbbell aesthetic with their slim, rounded plates, classy matte gray finish and sleek profile that makes them more wieldy than most. 

They have to be charged up using loading docks to work, which is a slight annoyance, but this is minimized by the fact that a full tank lasts upwards of five days.

So, despite being infinitely fond of my fixed weight hex dumbbells, the efficiency of these adjustable alternatives has seen them force their way into my at-home fitness routine. Read on to find out why I think they should be part of yours too. 

Price

The JAXJOX DumbbellConnect’s MSRP — $499 on the brand's website or £390 at Argos in the UK — may raise a few eyebrows at first. But there’s more to this price than meets the eye. 

You get the equivalent of a dumbbell rack (eight pairs) worth of free weights, ranging from 8lb to 50lb, while only taking up the space of a single set. When just one 50lb Amazon Basics Hex Dumbbell can set you back more than $71, the JAXJOX option starts to look more price-savvy — particularly given they come as a pair. It’s also worth keeping an eye on online retailers for discounts. 

They save you from the clutter of umpteen dumbbells lying around your home gym space too, while allowing you to quickly and effortlessly up the weight as your strength improves to ensure your training doesn’t plateau.

Weight range

Each of these adjustable dumbbells offers eight different weight settings; 8lb, 14lb, 20lb, 26lb, 32lb, 38lb, 44lb and 50lb. This will cover most bases for beginner to intermediate lifters. 

The 6lb increases are good for incrementally increasing the load you’re lifting for different exercises as your strength increases, without upping the load so much that your form falls apart. 

Design

The JAXJOX DumbbellConnects are far and away the most polished pair of adjustable dumbbells I’ve tested. Where most of their competitors are bulky with notable gaps between the interchangeable metal plates, the DumbbellConnect’s weights sit flush against each other to give a neat, sleek and sturdy finish. 

There was none of the usual rattling when I pressed them overhead, inspiring total confidence in the security of the plates, and the smaller dimensions of the dumbbells meant I was able to complete everything from bicep curls to goblet squats without them getting in the way — not the case with more awkwardly-shaped rivals like the Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells. 

The plastic docking stations also feel well-made, and have the same stylish gray finish as the dumbbells along with a green trim. This gives them a sporty aesthetic that slipped seamlessly into my home gym. The screens on each station that displays the current weight on the bar are simple but effective, with up and down buttons on either side so you can change the load with ease. They can be a bit tricky to see if you store the weights on the floor, as they’re positioned on the foot of the base, but that’s our only real design gripe. 

Set-up and features

Setting up the JAXJOX DumbbellConnects didn’t take me long at all; you just need to place each central dumbbell into one of the docking stations then slide the plates into place in any order. The docks do have to be charged up to change the weight so you may want to store them near a mains outlet, but a few hours of juice should keep them going for over five days (even with fairly consistent use).

When it comes to features, these digital dumbbells go much further than your average free weight. As I’ve already covered, you get eight different weight options and the ability to flit between them by loading the dumbbells into the docking station and toggling through the options using the up and down arrows on the base, but that’s not the only trick up JAXJOX’s sleeve. 

They can also link to the JAXJOX app via Bluetooth, allowing you to “free train” while it counts your reps for you. Or, if you pay a monthly membership fee, you gain access to a series of well-produced follow-along video workouts of varying durations and difficulty levels, which make full use of your digital dumbbells. 

I really liked that this was an option and had plenty of fun playing with the app. The video workouts (of which there are hundreds to choose from) are Peloton-esque with a high production value and energetic instructors. However, if you don’t want to pay extra for app access, the dumbbells are still a fantastic home workout tool without it.

Verdict

The JAXJOX DumbbellConnect adjustable dumbbells are the ultimate piece of kit for anyone looking to start (or continue) strength training at home. Their eight weight options mean there’s plenty of scope for progression, and the maximum weight of 50lb should be enough to challenge most people. Each dumbbell takes up just 19.5in x 7.5in of floor space, the plates sit securely together so I never feared they were going to fall out of place, and the sleek design will look great in any home workout space. They have to be charged up every week or so, which is a minor annoyance, but that’s the only real downside I could find.  

User reviews

At the time of writing, the JAXJOX DumbbellConnects have an average rating of over four stars out of five from 35 reviews on the brand’s website. Happy customers describe them as “simple, durable and versatile”, providing a space-savvy alternative to a full set of dumbbells. A small number of negative reviews say they experienced errors including a refusal to adjust the weight, but this isn’t something I encountered during the testing period.  

Alternatives

 Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells  

These nifty free weights have a clever TwistLock weight-changing contraption built into the handle; all you have to do is give it a twist to switch from 5-50lb (with 5lb increments in between). They’re robust, space-efficient and not too expensive either (compared to many premium models).  

Amazon Basics Adjustable Dumbbells 

If you want to start strength training at home but don’t want to break the bank, these Amazon Basics dumbbells are a brilliant budget option. They don’t have the high-tech specs of digital or selectorized adjustable dumbbells, and changing the weight will take a little while as you have to replace the weight plates yourself before securing them with spinlock collars. However, they still offer a range of loads for under $70. 

We were pleasantly surprised when testing the Sun Home infrared sauna blanket. Not only is it a top notch example of the product, but it comes in a range of colors and designs. We tested the blue zebra version, which definitely stood out from the crowd in terms of similar products we’ve tested.

The Sun Home succeeds where some competitors have failed: there is no strong smell associated with the heating process, the blanket is light and portable and it is easy to set up. Priced at $599, it isn’t as budget friendly as other options, but it is still a fraction of the price of a full-sized infrared sauna, like others sold by Sun Home. As with all sauna blankets, the Sun Home lays claim to a host of health benefits, including ‘detoxification’ and ‘cell revitalization’. Although these are benefits we have struggled to verify, the experience of sweating in the sauna blanket was relaxing and I felt energized after my session. 

If you’re wondering ‘what is an infrared sauna blanket?’ Or ‘what are the benefits of a sauna blanket?’, we’ve broken down the science around why a sauna blanket might be helpful to you. 

Sun Home sauna blanket review: price & features

A Sun Home sauna blanket will set you back a whopping $599, which is equivalent to the HigherDOSE, which also comes with an in-depth booklet. However, the range of color options and the fact that Sun Home has experience in making full sized infrared saunas pulled them ahead of most of the competition, making Sun Home one of our favorite sauna blanket brands. 

Sun Home offers other infrared products and saunas, but there are no optional extras that you can buy to go with your sauna blanket, unlike the range offered by some competitors. The Heat Healer in particular came with a free pillow and the option to buy a gua sha and a towel insert made for the sauna blanket. However these are things you can pick up elsewhere if you’d like to. 

The Sun Home sauna blanket runs at 500 Watts, which is standard for sauna blankets and means it costs very little to run, despite the penetrating temperatures it reaches. If you’re concerned about cost of living, a sauna blanket offers a similar relaxing experience to a bath without the cost of water, and is cheaper to purchase than a fully fledged sauna — infrared or traditional. 

The controller is easy to use, with options to change duration and temperature. It has a top temperature of 75℃/167F and a maximum duration of 60 minutes. The blanket automatically switches off after an hour (or however long you’ve set it to run), which is useful if you get so relaxed you doze off.

Sun Home sauna blanket review: material and design

The Sun Home is made from flexible, soft, leathery fabric, which was easy to maneuver in and out of and to get comfortable within. The velcro closure was easy to use and gave the blanket a degree of adjustability depending on the size of the person using it. Sun Home describes the material from which the blanket is constructed as ‘non-toxic, low-VOC, waterproof polyurethane.’ The carry case is made from durable material that protects the sauna blanket from dust and grime while traveling or in storage. 

We noticed that the plug was extremely easy to use, unlike other sauna blankets we tested which can be really stiff and tricky to disconnect. This makes it suitable for those with mobility issues or fine motor problems. If you want a sauna blanket to ease symptoms of arthritis or muscle aches, this might be a good model for you. The instruction manual also states that the plug can be connected to the blanket while it is out of use and stored, which makes it convenient and harder to lose than those that have to be completely disconnected. 

The Sun Home is 71” (180cm) by 71” (180cm) when unfolded, which is standard for most of the sauna blankets we’ve tested. The maximum interior circumference when closed is 65” (165cm) which makes it less suitable for those in larger bodies, although Sun Home said that they had a tester who weighed 375 lbs, as it depends more on a person’s dimensions than body weight.  

Sun Home sauna blanket review: Features

The Sun Home Sauna blanket has flaps to cover your shoulders to prevent heat loss from the blanket, which was a good feature. It weighs in at 15lbs, making it one of the lighter options available on the market and adding to its overall portability. 

The inside of the blanket was smooth and easy to wipe down after use. Sun Home recommended a household antibacterial spray or a vinegar and tea tree solution, but I found that a wet wipe worked well. 

The complimentary carry case is slightly larger than the blanket itself, making it easy to unpack and pack away, and it has a drawstring seal which is easier to use than zip options. The carry case also has an adjustable shoulder strap, making it one of the most portable options we tested. Even in the carry case, the blanket is compact and can be easily stored under a bed or on top of a wardrobe and packs into a suitcase if you don’t want to use the carry case. 

Sun Home sauna blanket review: temperature

The Sun Home has a maximum temperature of 75℃/167F, but we used it at 70℃/158F in order to keep our testing consistent between the various sauna blankets we’ve tested. It took slightly longer than others we have tested to reach peak temperature, taking closer to 20 minutes to heat up fully. We’ve found the standard is usually 10-15 minutes. Other brands came with a fairly strong smell of burning plastic as they heat up, but the Sun Home sauna blanket was neutral smelling during use.

Sun Home recommends you wear clothes that will absorb sweat (a shirt, pants, and socks) but we would go a step further and suggest that if you’re using the blanket at higher temperatures you might want to lay a towel down or wear thicker, long-sleeved clothing. The inside of the blanket can be uncomfortable against bare or thinly clothed skin beyond 65℃/149F.

Sun Home sauna blanket review: Experience

I enjoyed testing the Sun Home Sauna blanket and managed to get a good sweat on within the 45 minute session. I played myself some music and took sips of water throughout to replace the water lost and felt more calm and relaxed once the 45 minutes were up. I liked how easy the sauna blanket was to get in and out of, but also that the shoulder flaps completely covered me, making it an immersive experience. 

I’ve found that traditional saunas are quite oppressive and have struggled to breathe properly in such a hot, steamy environment, so using a sauna blanket is a great alternative.

Sun Home sauna blanket review: user reviews

User reviews are very positive for the Sun Home sauna blanket, with 204 five star reviews on the Sun Home website, and only two customers ranking it a lower four stars. Users like the quality materials used and praise the blanket for being well constructed. Many had purchased this sauna blanket to aid post-workout recovery, joint and muscle pain, and have also found it has improved their sleep quality.

One buyer said that it solves the problem of small spaces not working for full-sized saunas, and also recommended using a towel to protect exposed skin. “I love the benefits of infrared saunas but didn't have room for one in my house. This blanket solved that problem,” the user says. “I just slide it under my bed when not in use. The only discomfort I had was my heels would get too hot resting on the mat but a towel solved that issue. I love this blanket and all the benefits it brings with it!”

Sun Home sauna blanket review: verdict

The premium price that the Sun Home Sauna Blanket carries seems a little steep, considering the features offered by the competition, however we found it to be a really good all round sauna blanket and hard to fault. The issues we had with it were minor and the range of color and design options is an area where most competitors fail. 

Sun Home sauna blanket review: Also consider

Smomar

If the Sun Home sauna blanket is a little out of your price range, you might consider the Smomar sauna blanket, which also has two color options and is very similar to the Sun Home sauna blanket in terms of features. Both come with a complimentary carry case and are made of similar material. 

Heat Healer

If you’re taller, the Heat Healer sauna blanket is good for people up to 6’6” (198cm) and is heavier, which gives you the ‘weighted blanket’ experience while using it. It also clocks in at a lower price than the Sun Home sauna blanket.

If you're searching for a JLab Go Air Sport review, you're probably wondering whether these budget-friendly workout earbuds are actually worth your money. While the features on offer might not be worth writing home about, it's hard not to like these headphones, given the price.

Many of the best workout earbuds retail for over $100/£80, but the most feature-packed will typically set you back closer to $200/$160. Not the JLab Go Air Sport, though. These true wireless headphones cost just $30/£30, ideal if you've been worried about losing earbuds or accidentally damaging them at the gym.

But the problem with cheap headphones is that they're not usually very good. So I was surprised to find that not only are the JLab Go Air Sport good for the price, but they're also a decent pair of workout earbuds that stay in place, have good sound quality, and have reasonable battery life. 

I wore them throughout the day, and the curved ear hooks meant they never fell out, no matter what I was doing, and they were comfortable, too. Ultimately, I found that I wasn't just making do with affordable earbuds but actually enjoying wearing them.

The features don't compare to my favorite set, the NuraTrue, but they're not really meant to, given that they're almost a tenth of the price. To help you decide if these are the right earbuds for your workouts, we'll use this JLab Go Air Sport review to take you through everything you need to know about these budget-friendly headphones.

JLab Go Air Sport review: price and features

The JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are available for $30/£30, making them some of the lowest-cost workout earbuds around. Cheap headphones aren't well known for quality, and these are less than half the price of the budget-friendly Honor Earbuds 2 Lite, so I was a bit skeptical going into this review.

But the price is an integral part of these headphones. If you've resisted switching from a wired set of headphones because you're worried you might lose an earbud, it's understandable that you wouldn't want to spend between $100/£80 and $200/£160 on a pair of earphones.

Likewise, you may be after a durable throw-about set for the gym, with a more premium pair for everyday use or work calls. The JLab Go Air Sport fill this gap with an IP55 rating for sweat resistance, up to 32 hours of battery with the charging case, and an over-ear design that stops them from falling out for just $30.

A few standard features are missing; there isn't a companion app for customization, and there's no noise cancellation or voice assistant support available. However, there's a premium edition of these earbuds, the JLab Epic Air Sport, which have noise cancellation and are IP66-rated for water resistance, though they cost $100/£100.

You do get three preset equalizer options that you can switch between using the on-ear touch controls. I was particularly impressed with the performance of the Bass Boost mode, which did well to highlight the lower end. And, to keep them in place, the buds hook over your ear, which I found was a reliable design across a range of exercises.

JLab Go Air Sport review: sound quality

It's important to manage your expectations with a low-cost set of headphones; you're not going to get audiophile-style audio as you would from the Edifier Neobuds Pro, for example. But that doesn't mean you'll be left disappointed. After using the earbuds during testing, I was pleased with the overall audio experience.

I've been reviewing headphones for over five years and always use the same two tracks for easy comparison; Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and DeadMau5's Faxing Berlin. The Queen track has a wide dynamic range, so you get a good blend of treble and mids while Faxing Berlin's driving bass line helps test the lower end.

Bohemian Rhapsody sounded like a very good quality recording of the classic track, but stopped short of feeling like you're in the room with the musicians. If you're after a more immersive experience like that, you'd be better off with the Apple AirPods Pro with its Spatial Audio feature. 

Meanwhile, the buds fared well during the DeadMau5 track, although in all three modes at higher volumes the bass was a little muddy or distorted. But, it's also best to avoid listening at a high volume for extended periods anyway. 

If you're not a fan of the default blend of treble, bass, and mid-tones, you can triple-tap either earbud to cycle through Balanced, JLab Signature, and Bass Boost modes. To my ears, Bass Boost gave the most rounded audio, but since sound is subjective, you might get different results.

Although this is a welcome bit of customization, you can't go into more detail as there's no companion app for the JLab Go Air Sport. However, while they might not hit audiophile heights, these don't sound like budget headphones. Generally, I found the audio fairly well-rounded, even if it was hard to pick out details.

JLab Go Air Sport review: design and comfort

Like most workout headphones, the earbuds come housed in a charging case. Because of the ear-hook design, it's larger than the case for the slimline Jabra Elite 7 Active but still much more pocket-sized than the Skullcandy Push Active.

The case is noticeably light, which is helpful for carrying about on your way to a workout or in your gym bag. And when you're ready to go, the magnetic lid is easy to open and close, and the right and left earbuds are clearly marked inside the case.

Years ago, I had a set of wired, hooked earphones, but I always found them hard to fit around my ear. Fortunately, the JLab Go Air Sport's hooks are semi-rigid, unlike the flexible ones you'd find on the NuraLoop, but easy enough to adjust into place. The bud is angled slightly upwards to keep the whole unit in place.

No matter how much I tried, the buds didn't fall out, whether I was taking on a rep-based weight lifting session, a short high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) workout with lots of fast-paced moves and jumping, or out on a walk. 

At most, the inner-ear portion moved slightly — it didn't feel like it was about to drop from my ear, but as the bud wasn't sitting quite right, the audio was on the quiet side. But it was an easy fix; I'd just twist it back into place.

Because the ear hooks help distribute the weight across multiple areas of your ear, the Go Air Sport never felt uncomfortable, even when I wore them for several hours at a time. I tried laying down with them too, but as they don't sit flush against your ear, there was a bit of discomfort, so you probably wouldn't want to sleep with them.

JLab Go Air Sport review: battery life

One of the most remarkable claims about these headphones is the battery life; each earbud is designed to last eight hours or more, topped up to 32 hours with the case. This is dramatically more than the almost-$200/£170 Apple AirPods Pro, which get 4.5 hours and up to 24 hours with the case.

But this can vary greatly in practice depending on how much you use the controls, whether you take calls, and the volume, so it's essential to see how they perform in the real world. Generally, I found these times were correct, with the buds always lasting even through long listening sessions.

So whether you're into long-distance running or short, intense workouts, these headphones should see you through without issue. And because they're light, even with the case, you can top them up between sessions without hassle. When it's time to charge the case, you just plug the attached USB-A lead into a USB port.

JLab Go Air Sport review: user reviews

I'm not the only one impressed by these low-cost workout earbuds — the JLab Go Air Sport currently hold an average rating of four out of five on Amazon from over 2,000 reviews. Most users think that the fit is a highlight, with one reviewer noting: " My favorite feature is that they stay in securely no matter what. They're comfortable to wear, too."

That these budget-friendly workout headphones don't come with noise cancellation wasn't a deal breaker either. As one reviewer commented, "I do get external sounds intruding, but running on country roads this is a real good safety for me so I can hop out of the way of cars before they get to me."

Not everyone was happy with the sound quality, and a few owners had issues with the right and left earbuds falling out of sync with each other. However, the majority praise the durability and quality of the JLab Go Air Sport, especially given the price. 

JLab Go Air Sport review: verdict

The JLab Go Air Sport are not designed to immerse yourself in your favorite songs; they're built with workouts in mind. Many brands release exercise editions of their headphones, but JLab pulls off a neat trick of combining essential features like sweat resistance and long battery life without breaking the bank.

My past experience with budget headphones made me nervous about these earbuds, but I was wrong to doubt them. The design is comfortable, the ear hooks always kept them in my ears, and the case was robust enough to be roughed up a bit in a gym bag or backpack without lasting damage.

Another worry was that the sound would be so bad it'd be a distraction, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that wasn't the case. The audio isn't exceptional, but you get mid-range performance with a few customizations at an affordable price. It's hard to argue with that.

Also consider

Honor Earbuds 2 Lite

If you're looking for quality without breaking the bank, the Honor Earbuds 2 Lite are a good choice. These AirPod-inspired earbuds have noise cancellation, a transparency mode, and a pocket-sized charging case. Given what you get, they're impressive value workout headphones.

Skullcandy Push Active

The Skullcandy Push Active have a similar ear-hook design, although they're a little chunkier. However, you get more features for your money, with a Skullcandy voice assistant, transparency mode for keeping you aware of your surroundings, and an impressive 44-hour battery life.

The Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boot is a superb balance of hard-wearing materials with a lightweight design. They're waterproof, yet breathable, and equally suited to leisurely walks and gritty hikes. We rate them as some of the best shoes for walking .

We took the dark grey and coral boots out for several lengthy test runs (well, walks) to make sure they felt comfortable. They seriously impressed us, thanks to a good level of support, seriously grippy outsole and a lightweight feel.

You can find the best walking shoes on sale for more deals on walking shoes, or read on for our full review of these shoes below. 

Design and technology

Columbia is renowned for creating resilient premium outerwear for keen climbers and weathered walkers. They’ve taken a subtle approach to design with the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boot, which we love, and the model comes in standard and wide – something that will please wide-footed walkers. 

The polyester mesh upper locks water out using a breathable membrane system called OutDry. The 3D print creates lightweight stability, and the Navic Fit system provides a more ‘natural midfoot lockdown,’ according to Columbia. 

Our feet remained bone dry even when wading through long dewy grass, and the upper felt pliable enough to bend in step with our feet during uphill jaunts but also rigid – much needed on uneven ground. You’re far less likely to roll your ankle in these than with a low-cut shoe.

The durable rope-like laces hook tightly across the top of your feet and secure through the plump protective tongue, providing unshakeable support without suffocating. The laces aren’t waterproof, but they didn’t need retying when wet and stayed secure throughout our tests. 

We tested these walking shoes in fall and didn’t find our feet overheating despite the snug fit, but we can’t speak for hotter summer months as they’re not exceptionally roomy. 

Columbia uses Techlite + technology in the midsole to provide lightweight cushioning. We thought these walking boots might have us clumping across fields, but the single-density foam provided a gentle bounce – particularly under our heels – and felt just as comfortable after two hours as they did putting on. 

The 100% rubber outsole uses yet another technology called Adapt Trax, which (as the name suggests) provides grippy traction regardless of the ground, but more on this below. 

Fit, feel, and comfort

We generally wear between a UK 3-4 and opted for 3.5 with these walking shoes (a US 5). Initially, they felt snug, and we anticipated rubbing on the heel or jammed toes against the toe box. However, even with thick socks, the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boots felt incredibly padded and comfortable.

They’re true to fit, but we recommend going half a size up to accommodate walking socks. It’s also worth considering if you’ll be climbing hills, as your feet will press forward during the descent and require some leeway to do so without being forced against the toe box. 

These walking shoes strike the necessary balance between stability and comfort. They look hefty, but are surprisingly lightweight and don’t weigh you down over time. The sponge-like midsole provided a subtle cushioned bounce as we walked, and our arches were held adequately during each foot strike. However, if you have high arches we recommend you try them before you buy or seek a specialist design. 

The Peakfreak II is marketed as a hiking and backpacking shoe and cuts just above the ankles. The laces tie to the top and allow you to tighten the shoe around your ankle, which should provide ample stability if you’re braving the peaks. 

As is common with hiking boots, the midsole is thicker at the heel than the forefoot, but we were surprised that the heels of the midsole on these boots were thinner than the Adidas Terrex AX4s (a cross between a hiking and trail running shoe). It perhaps partly explains why they retain their lightweight feel, and the heel still feels springy regardless.

Support and grip

The good news is that the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boot requires zero breaking in.

Yes, you read that correctly. A hiking boot that doesn’t cause pain during the first few wears. We wore Adidas mid-rise sports socks with these hiking boots, and not only were our feet still dry (no leaks, no sweat) after a few hours in the countryside, but we also weren’t hobbling. Win. 

As we mentioned above, you get a great blend of thick cushioning and pliability from the upper, and the shoe moves with your foot strike to improve your range of motion. 

The ridged tire-tread outsoles use Adapt Trax traction tech – a system Columba says will enhance trail performance for superior grip in wet and dry conditions. We weren’t scaling mountains or climbing rocks when testing these shoes, but they felt secure underfoot, and we’d bet a top dollar they’re more than up to the job. 

The only downside to the outsole is that the shoes pick up a lot of mud underfoot, which could be problematic if you’re stomping through fields. Nothing that a quick smack against a floor can’t fix. 

Overall, the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II will be a staple in your backpack from the get-go and offer superior comfort and durability in one shoe box. 

User reviews

We couldn’t find many reviews for the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boot. But the feedback we could find was positive. One user stated the hiking boots are ‘very resistant and comfortable,’ even comparing them to slippers. 

Feedback also confirmed these shoes serve well on abrasive terrain and can handle ‘all kinds of hikes.’ 

Verdict

If you prefer adventures involving treks and mountains, we highly recommend the Columbia Women’s Peakfreak II Mid Outdry walking boot. These boots are certainly made for walking, but perhaps not around a city. They offer solid protection from the outdoors with pliable support through the midsole and upper, plenty of springy cushioning, water-resistant technology, and grippy outsoles. What’s more, they won’t weigh you down. 

Also consider

Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoe

We previously labeled the Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoe ‘the love child of trail-running sneakers and hiking boots.’ These hiking shoes resemble stylish chunky trainers but can still perform in the great outdoors. A thick heel, sturdy midsole, and high-grip outsole lend these shoes to a trail setting, but they’re also well suited to casual wear. However, they’re better worn in colder climates but aren’t fully waterproof. 

Merrell Moab 3

The Merrell Moab 3 walking shoes are a clever amalgamation of hiking and sneaker qualities. We recommend them for the mountains because they provide stability, but you can happily wander in them too, and they’re low-cut for versatility. 

The Primasole folding yoga mat is great for yogis who like to take their practice on the road and avid exercisers looking to save money this year. 

I still can’t believe how lightweight it is, folded crisply into a square and designed to stash conveniently away. There are no bells or whistles where this Amazon-own mat is concerned, and if you’re looking for thick cushioning or lashings of sticky surface grip, this model is unlikely to suit your needs. 

However, what you do get is a reliable and durable foam-like yoga mat that will save you money and serve you on the road. It’s easy to wipe down and takes less than five seconds to fold back up again, which means you can focus on your downward dog rather than the faff of commuting with a heavy rolled-up mat.

It shoots straight into our guide for the best yoga mat, but if you’re still unsure, we detail our thoughts from testing below. We also cover design, performance, and some alternatives to cover all bases, so you’re sure to find a yoga mat you love. 

Discover core yoga for building stronger abs, or read on for more. 

Primasole folding yoga mat: Price and features

The Primasole folding yoga mat varies between $11-$20/ £11-£20 on Amazon and comes listed as ‘Amazon’s Choice.’ 

The mat comes in bold block colors like Azalia pink and lime green. I tested the grey model, which I recommend if you know you'll be on the road or practicing outdoors, as it’s more forgiving on dirt and grime. 

The saying goes – ‘Buy cheap, buy twice,’ but I don’t think that’s the case with this yoga mat. I recommend it if you need the basics rather than a model with plumped-up features and a premium price tag to boot.

Primasole folding yoga mat: Design

The Primasole folding yoga mat is 4mm thick yet still seriously lightweight, weighing just 2lbs. You could just as easily slot this mat into your work bag as you could a large notebook and barely register the difference. 

Made from PVC, it’s less sustainable than other models like the Yogi Bare Wild Paws Natural Rubber Extreme Grip Yoga Mat (and much of the Manduka range). Make sure you look into the recycling credentials of different brands if this matters to you. 

The mat measures 68” in length but looks longer and should provide enough room for tall yogis. I’m 5”2 and require far less space, but I enjoy having room to practice jump backs and inversions, and this mat provided that. However, it feels constrictive at 24” wide and I had to narrow my warrior stance to stay connected. This makes mandala sequences more difficult. 

It's soft to the touch and cleans better than coarser, grippier models like the JadeYoga travel mat. The trade-off for a quick clean is that I found myself sliding out of downward dog and needed to employ the services of a grip towel for hot yoga classes.

One issue with design is that the creases from folding the mat prevent you from laying it flush to the floor. It connects well to the wooden floors, but the bumpy surface makes transitions, like a plank to high lunge, trickier. It is a petty grumble as it’s not in dangerous territory, but I think anyone performing jumping movements during HIIT would benefit from a heavier mat. 

Primasole folding yoga mat: Performance

This yoga mat feels foam-like under hand and foot, leaving subtle indents as you transition between poses – this doesn’t hinder performance but makes the yoga mat feel thinner than 4mm. I have tested other mats of the same thickness, and the Primasole feels the least likely to nurture joints in restorative classes. If you know you suffer from joint injuries, it could be worth opting for a heavier and thicker mat, like the Lululemon Reversible 5mm yoga mat.

The PVC material is durable and easy to clean. The surface feels sticky to the touch but quickly becomes slippery, and the thin foam-like padding lacks the density to support long holds. However, you can wipe this mat down, and it attracts less dirt and dust than natural rubber mats. 

I tested this mat in hot yoga and a home-based Yin-style class. It’s suitable for both but I highly recommend having a grip towel and some props on standby to help you along. The design doesn’t lend itself to a Hatha practice (holding poses like downward dog for long periods), but (again) a simple addition of a grip towel is a quick fix. 

The Primasole held in place on my wooden floor without sliding around, and after adding a towel, I could confidently head into shoulder stands without fear. If you like to keep your yoga mat in tip-top condition, I recommend a wipe-down after every class and avoiding trainers if possible. 

If you suffer from knee injuries, I recommend learning how to do yoga with bad knees and opting for a thicker mat. 

Primasole folding yoga mat: Care

If you clean your workout gear at home, you’ll understand the importance of taking good care of equipment. Primasole provides care instructions with every purchase, and their advice is to wipe your mat down with a damp cloth and water or a natural detergent. 

You should aim to store your Primasole folding yoga mat in a well-ventilated place without exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can reduce its durability.

Primasole folding yoga mat: User reviews

The Primasole folding yoga mat has a 4.5 rating from 5 stars on Amazon. Positive reviews comment on how lightweight and travel-friendly the yoga mat is. One user said ‘it’s comfortable (although thinner than a regular mat), super light…sticky on both sides, and folds easily.’ 

Another user said it folds very easily and is suitable for home and outdoor workouts. Negative feedback mentions that ‘while it is plenty long, it isn’t as wide as a traditional yoga mat.’ Another flagged that it has a ‘slippery film’ over the surface. 

Primasole folding yoga mat: Verdict

I recommend checking out our best yoga mat guide and deciding what is important to you. Is it sustainability? Support? Grip? Choosing a yoga mat can be a minefield, but you can narrow your options by knowing how you practice and what you enjoy from in-studio mats. 

If you simply want to save money and only require a basic exercise mat, I can’t recommend the Primasole folding yoga mat enough. Lightweight, foldable, and easy to travel with, you can practice yoga or home workouts anywhere and anytime. If you know you need more support from your mat or practice mostly hot yoga, we recommend more suitable yoga mats in our comprehensive guide. 

Also consider

Yogi Bare Wild Paws Natural Rubber Extreme Grip yoga mat

We love the Yogi Bare Wild Paws Natural Rubber Extreme Grip yoga mat. It’s spacious, super grippy, and sustainably made. If you desire premium support, plush thickness, and desirable amounts of grip – this is the mat for you. It’s not travel-friendly at 5.5 lbs (more than double the weight of the Primasole), and it sits in the premium price category, but it is built to last. 

JadeYoga Travel mat

The JadeYoga Travel mat – as the name suggests – is one of the best yoga mats for travel. Sustainably made, lightweight (it weighs just 2.9lbs), and foldable, this yoga mat travels well. It lacks padding and cushioning though, and our tester found it slippery when wet. 

When I started this NuraTrue review, I had high hopes for these wireless earbuds. Like many sets of modern headphones, they come with noise cancellation, good battery life, and a charging case—but that wasn't why I was interested in them.

Nura, the audio company behind the NuraTrue, uses tech to personalize the sound to your ears, which on paper would make them stand out, even when compared to many of the best workout earbuds available today.

This tech has been in development since 2017 when Nura launched its first set of over-ear headphones. It then refined the experience with the exceptional NuraLoop earphones. Now, the NuraTrue ditch the wire, so you can now use Nura's personalized sound during your workouts.

It's rare to find a device that actually lives up to the manufacturer's claims, but the earbuds consistently performed above my expectations for personalized sound, battery life, and in-ear fit. So much so that they quickly became my go-to earbuds, even for high-intensity workouts and weightlifting sessions.

Then there's the Immersive Mode, which aims to replicate the live music experience and might be my favorite feature on any set of headphones. But before deciding whether these workout earbuds are right for you, we'll cover everything you need to know in our NuraTrue review.

NuraTrue review: price and features

The NuraTrue retail for $199.99/£199.99 direct from the company's store, though the price is often the same at other retailers, including Amazon. Alternatively, if you're in the US, you can join the NuraNow membership program for $9.99 per month to rent the earbuds instead.

This makes them slightly cheaper ($30-$40/£25-£35) than the Apple AirPods Pro, but you get similar features for your money. The NuraTrue offers noise cancellation to block external sounds and a transparency mode that selectively lets in sounds so you can hear what's happening around you.

But the headline feature is Nura's personalized audio. Once you unbox the headphones and install the companion app, you're guided through a series of fit and audio tests to help adjust the equalizer for your hearing. You can find the same tech in the NuraLoop, except this time, the earbuds are smaller, and there's no connecting wire.

The resulting audio is easily some of the best I've heard through wireless headphones, but more on that later. There are on-ear touch controls to play/pause your audio, accept incoming calls, and toggle noise cancellation modes. And you can listen in a single ear or with both earbuds, which is handy if you're at the gym or listening at your desk.

However, although you can customize the controls in the app, the functions are assigned to a specific ear. So, if you have the noise cancellation options on the left ear but only listen with the right, you can't switch between noise cancellation and transparency. This isn't too much of a problem, though, as the noise cancellation only works with both earbuds in.

Notably, if you're looking for new workout earbuds, the NuraTrue come with an IPX4 rating for sweat resistance, so they should cope with even the most intense workouts. But if you're a keen outdoor runner, you'll want to consider a water-resistant set like the Jabra Elite 7 Active.

NuraTrue review: design and comfort

All the NuraTrue's fancy features would be redundant if the earbuds were uncomfortable or difficult to use. The earbuds' outer discs look huge in the palm of your hand but sit nice and flush against your ear and don't look oversized once they're in place. Despite the unusual look, I liked that they didn't have the stemmed design popularized by the Apple AirPods Pro.

Instead of hanging down, all the tech is contained within the disc, which is also used to add passive noise cancellation, blocking sounds by physically sealing your ear. Usually, I have to experiment with several of the four included tips to find one that fits, but the NuraTrue slipped straight in without any changes and held firmly in place.

They've been designed with grooves to sit along your ear's ridges and balance the weight neatly, so they don't slip out. I also found that a slight counterclockwise twist helped lock them into position. I tackled weightlifting sessions, high-intensity interval training, walking, running, and everyday activities without adjusting the fit.

Because Nura has designed them to feel light in your ears (each bud weighs just 0.016lbs), they're incredibly comfortable. I listened for hours at a time and even fell asleep with them without any earache or discomfort. They neatly pop back into the case, too, but you can mix up which side goes in which position; get it wrong, and the case won't close properly or start charging.

NuraTrue review: sound quality

As I found when testing the audiophile-friendly Edifier Neobuds Pro, it takes more than impressive sound quality to make a great pair of workout headphones. I've tried a lot of headphones over the years, first as a tech reviewer and now as a fitness writer, so I've come to expect how certain songs would sound.

To keep things consistent, I've always used Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody (a song with great dynamic range) and DeadMau5's Faxing Berlin, a bass-driven progressive dance track, for reviews. Up until this point, the Jabra Elite 7 Active had been my all-time top workout earbuds for audio quality, but the NuraTrue quickly claimed that spot.

Despite listening to these songs hundreds of times, I could hear new elements, different instrumentation, and production choices that had seemingly not been there before. Add the Immersive Mode's live show-style bass, which recreates the lower-end rumble but without the chest vibrations, and I can't see myself using another set of headphones for music for a long time.

I'm also a heavy podcast and audiobook listener, so I used the NuraTrue for hours of spoken word recordings during the review. There's no noticeable difference for everyday podcasts, especially ones recorded over video calls, but the Immersive Mode really added depth to professionally-produced audiobooks and series.

The most crucial part is that Nura doesn't overcomplicate it, so there are no difficult instruction manuals or jargon-heavy technical options — you download the app, follow the prompts, and then press play. Of course, the sound is subjective, but to my ears, these are some of the best-sounding headphones I've ever tried.

NuraTrue review: battery life

In theory, each earbud should last six hours, topped up to 24 hours with the case. Although it should easily see you through a workout or long run, six hours is considerably less than most workout earbuds, which often achieve eight to 10 hours out of the case. But the NuraTrue have an interesting way of extending this.

When you take the earbuds out of your ear, they turn off after a short delay. Other headphones do this, but these were extremely quick to reconnect when you put them back in, so you barely even notice. So, if you need to have a brief conversation, post-workout shower, or need a break, you don't have to fumble around for the case right away.

Battery life also depends on several other factors, like how loud you listen to music and how often you use the touch buttons or take calls. But my experience was that they could easily last the quoted six hours and very rarely needed charging, even though I'd wear them for hours at a time. And when you do need a top-up, you just plug them into a USB-C charger.

NuraTrue review: user reviews

The NuraTrue currently hold an average of four out of five stars on Amazon from more than 200 reviews, with over half of users rating them a perfect five out of five. Overwhelmingly, wearers were happy with the fit of the earbuds, which were easily adjustable with multiple tips. This helped bolster the performance of the well-received noise cancellation, too.

One reviewer noted: "These things are unreal. The setup hearing test was super quick and easy and after listening to some old favorites I realized that there is a lot more detail I wasn't hearing." After praising the fit of the earbuds, another predicated that "these NuraTrue's are now potentially my new gym and outdoor earphones."

A small minority weren't impressed with the sound quality, though; some noted that the bass would get a bit muddy. However, audio quality is subjective, and most owners were extremely pleased with the comprehensive personalization options, Immersive Mode bass, and overall sound quality of these earbuds.

NuraTrue review: verdict

When you're looking for workout earbuds, the main thing you're after is a set that'll stay in your ears without hassle. The NuraTrue barely moved once they were in place, even when we wore them during HIIT workouts, weight lifting, or high-intensity bodyweight moves like burpees.

But it's the personalized sound that really sets them apart. After spending the better part of five years reviewing headphones, I've not found any others that can offer this kind of audio reproduction. The fit helps, but it's the way that Nura adapts the audio to suit your individual hearing that added depth to songs I thought I knew inside out.

At $200/£200, they're pricey for workout earbuds, especially compared to budget-friendly alternatives like the Honor Earbuds 2 Lite, and the circular design won't be to everyone's tastes. But you get a remarkable audio experience for your money, and the buds are comfortable enough to wear for hours at a time, whether at the gym or while out and about.

Also consider

Jabra Elite 7 Active

If you're after a set of wireless earbuds specifically designed for working out, then the Jabra Elite 7 Active are worth a look. These buds come with noise cancellation, adjustable sound options, and 30 hours of battery.

But we felt that the standout feature was the ShakeGrip design which keeps the earbuds firmly in place during a variety of workouts.

Apple AirPods Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro are one of the top options for iPhone owners, and although they don't have the NuraTrue's Immersive Mode, the earbuds do have Spatial Audio, which makes it feels as though the sound is all around you.

Plus, they integrate neatly with Apple's other products (like your MacBook or iMac) and services, including Apple Fitness+, the company's virtual workout platform.

Best known for climbing shoes, Scarpa is now edging into the world of trail running with models including the Golden Gate ATR. Marketed as a road-to-trail transitional shoe for athletes of any weight and experience level, the footwear is vying for a spot in best trail running shoes. 

Unfortunately, it falls short of its claim to be "perfect for running medium to long distance on mixed terrain including paved surfaces". Although the Golden Gate ATR performs well as a grippy summer trail shoe, it is less effective on roads due to its hard midsole.

So while I really wanted to love this trail shoe and it has some great unique functions and looks smart, ultimately it lacks comfort. I don't love it but I do like it.

Price and features

Sitting in the middle-to-high end of the market, the Golden Gate ATR retails at $149.99 (£130) which is a fairly standard price for a technical pair of trail shoes. Like the Hoka Speedgoat it includes a foot rocker which propels you forward but its USP is the additional wraparound Sock-Fit LW which hugs the foot snugly.

Design and technology

Available in two colours, Oasis Deep Green and Arube Blue Black, this trail shoe looks ready for action with its funky webbed design based on the architecture of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

On the base there is Scarpa's Presa rubber sole with widely-spaced 4mm lugs and longer lugs around the heel and outer edge. The centre of the sole is devoid of grip and this may explain why the shoe felt slippy on some surfaces.

The i-Respond propulsion system means there is a higher stack on the midsole particularly at the heel. This is counteracted by the integrated collar and tongue which holds the ankle in place making this a stable shoe despite the springy foot rocker.

Inside the shoe there is a Sock-Fit LW which in theory is adaptable to different foot shapes and gives it an elastic feel.

The upper is a relatively lightweight and breathable material which dried quickly when tested in the rain and through wet grassy fields. 

Fit, feel and comfort

These shoes run small and a full size up is recommended. The Sock-Fit LW hugs around the foot giving a slightly suffocating fit which takes a while to get used to. During my first few trail runs across fields and towpaths, it felt like my foot was wrapped in an elastic band which was a little distracting.

Then there was the issue with the integrated collar and tongue. This is a convenient feature because there is no fiddling around trying to get the tongue in the correct position. On the downside, every time I wore ankle socks the collar rubbed my heel raw within 5k. This was resolved when I wore higher socks but I was still nervous running more than 20k. But on the plus side it was great at keeping debris out.

There is no doubting that the rocker plate is a brilliant asset off road and allows you to bounce across rough terrain. When running on uneven ground you are also less likely to notice the rocker. But on the road I really noticed that the middle of the foot felt higher than the back and front. This, together with a firm midsole, meant running on the road was always uncomfortable even during short distances.

Support

In terms of grip, the shoes performed best on one of my canicross runs through the woods. My dog was pulling me at a rapid pace downhill while I was navigating stones across the river, tree roots and Sunday walkers yet I always felt secure underfoot. The 4mm drop meant I had a responsive run and the lugs clung well to hard surfaces.

Less successful was running in mud where the shoes had a tendency to slide and within a few strides I found the soles were caked with cloggy soil which was impossible to shake off.

User reviews

Users remarked on the stability of the shoe despite the big stack height and the "highly breathable, low moisture absorbing upper". 

But one runner noted the narrow toe box width, hard midsole which was "not the softest ride" and excessive weight.

Some also questioned whether it was an effective transitional shoe with one trail runner commenting, "as an all terrain shoe with marketing towards 'door to trail' the outsole clearly leans the shoe more towards trail than road. I think it could be softened down, especially the medial rubber."

Verdict

This is a steady pair of trail shoes for summer runs across rocky or dry terrain which will give plenty of bounce off road. But they are less successful as a transitional road to trail shoe particularly with a 4mm drop and a hard midsole.

Also consider

Merrell MTL Long Sky 2

It may not be a hybrid road-trail shoe but the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 is actually pretty comfortable on and off road. It is also a great shoe for runners with wider feet due to the spacious toe box. It is reliable, light and fairly versatile.

On Cloudultra

These On Cloudultra shoes are perfect for those running on a mix of rough and smooth terrain; they work equally well as a trail running shoe and a road running sneaker. There's a solid grip for uneven terrain and a good amount of cushioning for long distances. They earned the top spot in our round-up of the best trail running shoes. 

The first thing I noticed when I started this Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review was that the shoes are amazingly comfortable. They're snug and well-fitting, though not too tight. But that's not the only thing to like about multi-purpose shoes.

Like many of the best cross training shoes, the Rise 4 are lightweight, made of durable materials, and come with Under Armour's foam-based HOVR mid-sole for cushioning. And to support you between fast-paced moves, there's a slim but grippy rubber outer sole.

You'll also notice a plastic strap connecting the laces to body of the shoe, which is supposed to stabilize your heel, though I wasn't convinced that this particular bit of material really did anything. At least, nothing especially noticeable.

Still, when it comes to aesthetic appeal, you have seven color choices, including the Tin/Ghost Gray edition we tested. Although Under Armour made a women's version of the HOVR Reign 3, the Reign 4 are currently only available as a men's shoe.

You can find out how they look with a quick search online, but not how they feel during workouts. That's why I put them through their paces for this Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review, testing them on a range of activities so you can decide if they're right for you.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: price and features

The Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 are available from the company's online store for $110/£90, and it's the same price across all seven color options and sizes. Unfortunately, unlike the previous HOVR Rise 3, at the moment, these shoes only come in a men's edition.

As the name suggests, these shoes fall under the company's HOVR range, a collection of shoes with Under Armour's HOVR foam-based sole. But on this pair, the foam cushioning is housed within a more study rubber-like midsole for improved performance.

Under Armour has a separate range under the TriBase moniker—another of the company's technologies designed to keep the sole as close to the ground as possible. Although not grouped under the range, the HOVR Rise 4 are also designed with TriBase.

This combination of design features is why they make for an interesting cross training shoe. Generally, the HOVR foam helps propel runners forward, while the TriBase sole is best for quick movements found in many gym and home workouts.

Under Armour has combined the two to create a shoe that, in theory, can support you while out on a run, while taking on a high-intensity workout, or while lifting weights. It promises a lot, which is why I was keen to lace up a set and give them a go.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: design

The overall design of the HOVR Rise 4 has stayed roughly intact with this new model. The most noticeable change is that the plastic strap no longer runs down to the HOVR foam sole. Otherwise, outwardly, these look much the same as the HOVR Rise 3.

The large, circular laces are held in place by ringlets in the shoe's upper body and looped into the plastic strap up at the top. The cushioned tongue is soft and never pressed into my foot or caused discomfort.

Although they look almost like flat-soled shoes, the HOVR foam sole stretches beyond the base of the shoe up the body and out to the side with an 0.3 in/8mm offset between the toe and heel. Interestingly, this puts them in line with many of the best running shoes for men.

This is the main strength of these shoes, though, offering cushioning without extra weight and helping propel you forwards while running. It's not a trait often found on cross training shoes, though, as these usually have flat or near-flat soles.

Flatter soles are ideal if you're going to do a lot of weight lifting, as they help the weight fall into your heel, but thanks to the durable rubber grip on the outer sole, the HOVR Rise 4 are well suited for quick movements, like those you'd find in a HIIT workout.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: fit, feel, and comfort

They might have a lot of notable features, but that doesn't always translate into real-world practicality. Fortunately, the Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 managed to (mostly) live up to expectations; they were comfortable, supportive, and handled a variety of workouts.

Firstly, they felt good to wear. This doesn't automatically mean that they are supportive during exercise, but it's incredibly disappointing when you lace up a set of shoes only to find that the mouth of the shoe is too hard or that the toe area is too narrow.

Thankfully, we didn't have those problems here as the HOVR Rise 4 felt light to wear and never restrictive. They tightened in the right places, leaving breathing room while comfortably securing crucial areas like around your ankle and midsole.

There's only a single fit style available so if you have narrow or wide feet, these might not fit as well. However, I did find that there was some space around the toe end, which might help. I normally wear regular fit, but suspect these might be a bit loose for narrower feet.

The rubber sole gave enough grip to help you stabilize, but not so much that you get accidentally stuck against the ground. I tried them out on a range of floor types, and they didn't cause that high-pitched squeak when gliding across the ground.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: support

I tried the shoes while out walking, doing short cardio bursts, high-intensity workouts, and weight lifting. That said, I don't claim to be a heavy runner, so although I found them comfortable, you'd still be best with a dedicated set of running shoes if you run regularly.

The HOVR foam did seem to offer some energy recovery, so the impact didn't immediately dissipate into the ground. So, the movements felt lighter than in many cross training shoes. This is arguably the biggest strength of these shoes.

The soft cushioning combined with the TriBase sole means that the HOVR Rise 4 are more multi-purpose than most cross training shoes. But this hasn't come at the expense of a practical, functional experience in other workouts.

If you do occasional weight lifting, or generally don't reach for the highest loads, I didn't feel that the slightly raised sole impacted where I could keep the weight during squats or presses and there weren't noticeable differences compared other training shoes like the New Balance Minimus TR.

Though, if you're a lifter who enjoys a bit of cross training, these are still a good choice, and you could invest in another multi-functional gym shoe like the Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars, which have a flat rubber sole and can be worn throughout the day, not just at the gym.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: user reviews

Reviews are currently quite sparse for the Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 shoes as they are still relatively new. However, early impressions are positive, with the shoes holding an average five out of five on Amazon and four out of five on Under Armour's store. Summing up the general feeling, one Amazon user noted, "the shoes give great support during a workout."

Comments left on Under Armour's store also praise the fit, comfort, and performance of the shoes, but take issue with the color, with one review titled "comfortable shoe but deceitful colour." The main problem wasn't the color itself, but the difference between the physical shoe and the online imagery, which they felt gave a misleading impression of the true color.

Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 review: verdict

It's hard not to like the Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 as a cross training shoe, especially if you're partial to a bit of light running. The aesthetic design is slightly understated compared to previous editions, with the more muted colors making them a training shoe you could reasonably leave on, even outside the gym.

But, importantly, the HOVR Rise 4 aren't just for show, as the shoes are designed for comfort, and we were impressed at the variety of tasks they could handle without causing discomfort or digging in around the tongue and ankle. If you mainly do HIIT workouts, then the large HOVR sole may get in the way when quickly moving between positions during burpees, though.

They might not be the top cross training shoe around, but they do make a compelling all-rounder, ideal for people who enjoy a bit of variety in their workouts. But if you favor a particular style of training, like running, weight lifting, or HIIT workouts, you may be better off with a more specialist shoe.

Also consider

Under Armour TriBase Reign 4

The Under Armour TriBase Reign 4 are designed to keep your feet close to the ground, which makes them ideal for weight lifting or other strength training exercise, but without the HOVR Rise 4's foam mid-sole. The shoes also only have a 0.07 in/ 2mm offset (compared to the HOVR Rise 4's 0.31in/ 8mm), and are available for men and women.

Nike Metcon 7

If you're a fan of high-intensity workouts, the Nike Metcon 7 are worth considering. We found that the shoes responded well to the fast-paced action of a HIIT workout and could cope well with weighted strength training, thanks to the wide heel and plated inner sole to distribute the load, making them a great multi-purpose shoe.

The Heat Healer infrared sauna blanket falls in the middle of its competitors in terms of price and comes with a range of optional extras and a complimentary carry case. Unlike other brands, the Heat Healer also comes with a complimentary pillow. Although it is the most height-inclusive, being the one of the largest sauna blankets available on the market, the weight of the blanket makes it the most unwieldy and potentially unsuitable for those who may struggle with strength or mobility.

As a health junkie, I was excited to try out the Heat Healer, but my first experience was marred by the strong smell of heated plastic, which I found overwhelming. The smell does go away after a few uses (or maybe you get used to it), but this was off putting and not exactly conducive to a calm and spa-like atmosphere. 

Plus, if you’re wondering what is an infrared sauna blanket, we’ve put together a guide to everything you need to know about these wellness products, from how they work to what you need to wear.

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: price & features

The Heat Healer retails for around $568/£448, which is neither the cheapest nor most expensive sauna blanket option out there. For your money, you do get a free carry case, making this blanket one of the more portable options, as well as a free pillow – something that sets it apart from its competitors. You can also pick up a towel insert for $89/£59 and a stone lymphatic body paddle/gua sha for $89/£59 from the Heat Healer website. This range of optional extras can elevate your experience but aren’t necessary to use the sauna blanket properly.

The instructions that came with the blanket were minimal, with a QR code on a single A5 sheet of paper making it more sustainable perhaps, but less accessible for those who may not have much technical knowledge. The essentials were covered by the flyer, with safety instructions and a step-by-step guide, and the QR code takes you to a page with a video and a more detailed guide to setup. 

The Heat Healer sauna blanket runs at 550 watts, meaning a 30-60 minute session will only cost you a few cents/pence in electricity. This is a lot cheaper to run than a traditional sauna, which takes much longer to heat up and is more expensive to keep at the optimal temperature. 

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: material and design

The blanket is 75" (190cm) long and has a circumference of 69" (175cm), which makes it the biggest on the market, and can accommodate someone up to 6’6 (198cm). The recommended upper weight limit is 300lbs (135kg), and the 69” (175cm) circumference makes the Heat Healer unsuitable for those in a larger body.

The Heat Healer looks very standard for a sauna blanket when closed, despite being slightly larger. It was heavier than other models we tested, making it harder to get in and out of, but the velcro closure was convenient and easy to use. The visible jade and tourmaline stones on the inside of the blanket gave the blanket more of a spa-like, luxury feel, so it felt less like I was sealing myself into a body bag when I got settled. 

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: Features

The free pillow is also a massive bonus of the Heat Healer, particularly if you don’t want to sweat onto one of your own pillows or find yourself changing a pillowcase every time you use the sauna. I found this blanket to be particularly difficult to plug in; the connection to the blanket was very stiff, which might make it unsuitable for those with reduced fine-motor mobility, who may not be able to set the blanket up alone. It was also the most difficult to pack away of all the blankets we tested due to its weight, and I found it hard to make it fit into the carry case to store it. Considering the blanket seems to be used by many customers to alleviate symptoms of chronic illness, I felt that the accessibility and ease of use of this blanket was an important factor to consider.

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: temperature

The Heat Healer has a top temperature of 176°F (80°C) although the instructions recommend you start at a lower temperature, 158°F (70°C), and work up to the top temperature if you are comfortable doing so. This is fairly daring compared to other brands, some of which recommend you start very low and increase by 40°F (5°C) with each usage (or start on a lower level for those that don’t have temperature settings). If you are not used to a sauna blanket, starting at 158°F (70°C) may be a little high, particularly if you are also starting with a 60 min session. Considering the caution recommended by other brands, I wonder if Heat Healer’s recommendations are too high, or if other brands are just being overly cautious. 

I tried to keep my testing consistent across multiple brands, so I did not exceed 158°F (70°C) as this was the top temperature for other brands, and I used the sauna blanket for 45 minutes at a time. 

Heat Healer review: Experience

After getting over the strong plastic smell of the Heat Healer, I settled into the experience and enjoyed a good sweat. It never reached uncomfortable levels of warmth, although I did sweat through my clothes after about 20 minutes. As recommended, I followed the session with a cool shower, which left me feeling refreshed. I felt that the sweating definitely helped improve my skin texture over the week, and I ended each session feeling calm and relaxed. 

The Heat Healer takes 10-15 minutes to heat up, which is standard across most brands of sauna blanket. This is a lot faster than a traditional sauna, which can take up to an hour to reach optimal sweating temperature. 

The Heat Healer recommends that you start with a 30-60 minute session, and the blanket automatically switches off after 60 minutes. This seems to be standard for other sauna blankets, and handy in case you fall asleep.

The Heat Healer has the standard recommendation that you should wear loose-fitting clothing, including socks, to absorb sweat and to serve as a barrier between your body and the sauna blanket. All the other sauna blankets we tested function in a similar fashion and require you to be clothed to use them. Heat Healer offer the option to purchase a towel insert, but you can just lay down a towel for an extra layer of protection for yourself and the blanket. 

Heat Healer recommend that you wipe the blanket down with an antibacterial spray once it has cooled down, and to not fold it up for storage until it is completely cool. They also recommend you store the blanket in its original box, in a cool, dry place and do not place anything on top of it in case you cause damage to the blanket. 

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: user reviews

Heat Healer user reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a lot saying that it helps to soothe symptoms of their chronic health issues, lowers their anxiety levels and helps them to enjoy more restful sleep. Other users say it helps to speed their recovery and soothe sore muscles after an intense workout. Many commented on the higher quality of materials used in comparison to other sauna blankets, giving the Heat Healer a high-end feel that doesn’t necessarily reflect in the price.  

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: verdict

The Heat Healer is a good sauna blanket, with a standard top temperature, selling for a reasonable price compared to its competitors. Users liked the materials used to construct the blanket and the extras, both complementary and optional. As one of the largest sauna blankets available at the moment, it is particularly good for tall people, although a range of sizes, particularly with options for a wider circumference, may be better to make the sauna blanket accessible to those in larger bodies. 

Heat Healer sauna blanket review: Also consider

Smomar

Other alternatives include the Smomar infrared sauna blanket, which also comes with its own carry case, but is a lighter and cheaper option than the Heat Healer. 

HigherDOSE

If you wanted to go for something a little higher-range, the HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket is also a lighter option, although it comes in at $599/£460, making it ever so slightly more expensive. 

The Smomar infrared sauna blanket really sold me on sauna blankets overall. Despite the potential sauna blanket benefits, I wasn’t completely enamoured by the experience, but the Smomar didn’t have any weird plastic smells, wasn’t overly heavy, and was easy and stress-free to set up. 

As an option for traveling, the low weight of the blanket means that you can pretty much take it anywhere with you. If you don’t want to skip a sweating session, it can be packed up and isn’t much of a hindrance to carry. Just remember to pack a towel or two, as well as a pillow, as these products aren’t available to buy through Smomar. 

Plus, if you're wondering what is an infrared sauna blanket, we’ve put together a guide on everything you need to know about these wellness products, from how they work to what you need to wear. 

Smomar sauna blanket review: price & features

I wasn’t aware of the prices when I was testing, so I assumed the Smomar sauna blanket was at the higher end of the price range, as it comes with a complimentary carry case and had a choice of color options (I tested the green version). You can imagine my surprise when I discovered it was the ‘budget’ option, at $382/£399. For your money you get a free carry case, making it the best option for portability, and it seems to be constructed of high quality materials. 

Unlike some brands I tested, the Smomar doesn’t have any optional extras; it is simply a sauna blanket that comes with a carry case and instruction manual. However, the brand has curated Spotify playlists available for users to elevate their sweating experience if they so wish. 

Unlike some of the others we tested too, the Smomar came with an entire booklet of instructions and health warnings. While some of the advice (such as starting at a very low temperature) seemed overly cautious, it was good to have all the information I needed before I started, and I was able to peruse the instruction manual while the blanket heated up. The only slightly strange advice I found was that they recommend checking with your doctor before use if you have, among other conditions, a mental illness. I wasn’t sure how this would affect my use of a sauna blanket, but I figured the purported ‘stress reducing’ qualities of the blanket would probably help. 

Smomar sauna blanket review: Material and design

The Smomar was the same size as most of the other sauna blankets that we tested, at 71 x 71 inches (180 x 180 cm), which seems to be fairly standard, however it weighs only 12.12lb (5.5kg), which was by far the lightest of those we tested. This adds to the portability of the blanket, as once it’s in the carry case it’s the least cumbersome to move around.

Smomar recommends that someone up to 6’4’’(196cm) and 330lb (150kg) can comfortably use the blanket. While the height limit is fairly standard, the upper weight limit seems to be an overall flaw with sauna blankets in general. They just aren’t made to fit anybody in a larger body and there is very little available in a range of sizes. Smomar has successfully offered a small range of colors, so perhaps a range of sizes would also be appropriate.

Smomar sauna blanket review: Features

I liked that users could choose the color of their Smomar infrared sauna blanket. The overwhelmingly black-coloured sauna blankets on the market remind me of body bags, which is a little off-putting. 

Due to the lightweight style of the sauna blanket, it was easy to set up and put away without having to wrestle. I am a fairly short person, at 5’5”(165cm) and found some of the other brands we tested difficult to maneuver and even more difficult to get in and out of for a sweating session. The velcro strips were convenient to use and gave the blanket a degree of adjustability, as they are quite wide. It was also noticeably easier to plug in than others we tested and would therefore be my recommendation for anybody with fine motor or mobility issues. 

Other brands came with a fairly strong smell of burning plastic as they heated up, but the Smomar was thankfully neutral smelling. The ease of setup, lack of strange smells and quick warm-up time (6-10 minutes) was conducive to a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere and I was able to completely settle into the experience and enjoy myself while testing this product. 

Smomar sauna blanket review: Temperature

The Smomar is a standard sauna blanket in many ways – with a top temperature of 176°F (80°C), however Smomar recommends you start at a very low 86°F (30°C) and increase by 40°F (5°C) with each usage. Having used several other sauna blankets, and wanting to keep my testing consistent between them, I used the blanket at 158°F (70°C).  

The energy consumption of the sauna blanket is really low, at 450-500 watts, making it cheap to run over a 30-60 minute session. This seems to be fairly consistent over sauna blankets in general, making them a cost-effective alternative to traditional saunas, which can use a lot of energy to heat up. 

The blanket automatically switches off after 60 minutes, which also seems to be standard, but they recommend that you do not exceed 50 minutes per session, which is a little less than other brands. I wasn’t sure if this was Smomar being overly cautious, as they seem to be with temperature settings, but I had tested the others for 45 minutes, so did the same here. 

Smomar sauna blanket review: experience

I enjoyed the Smomar experience overall. The lightness of the blanket meant that I didn't feel squashed and could fully relax for my sweating session, which wasn't always the case with other brands.

I saw benefits to my skin after a few uses, which surprised me, but I think the sweating really helped to clear out my pores and improved circulation to the surface of my skin. As someone with very sensitive, troubled skin, this was a nice surprise and I felt very 'glowy' with regular sauna blanket sessions. 

I also found my body felt relaxed and that I was calmer after using the Smomar blanket. I think perhaps this was due to the uninterrupted time being still and just focusing on how my body felt, instead of fiddling with something or looking at a screen to distract myself as I would usually do. I listened to music, monitored my hydration and just enjoyed letting the blanket warm the tension out of my body.

Smomar sauna blanket review: User reviews

The reviews on the Smomar website are very positive, with 4.5 out of five overall. Many users claim it offers an affordable and accessible alternative to traditional sauna. A lot of reviews also mention that they had done a lot of research prior to purchase and that Smomar was the best option they found in comparison to others. 

Smomar sauna blanket review: verdict

This was the best infrared sauna blanket of all the ones I tested. The fact it was lightweight and easy to move around really sold me, as I don’t think unpacking and repacking the blanket should be a workout in itself. If you want the option to purchase a sauna blanket in a color other than black, the Smomar offers a green option that feels more luxurious and naturalistic than other brands. 

Also consider

Heat Healer 

If the Smomar is not the sauna blanket for you, you might want to consider the Heat Healer, which offers a great option if you are on the taller side. The Heat Healer can accommodate someone up to 6’6 (198cm) and also comes with a free carry case, plus a complimentary pillow.  

HigherDOSE

For a higher-end option, the HigherDOSE sauna blanket is a little more expensive than both the Smomar and Heat Healer, but has a handy zip for getting in and out. There are lots of option extras you can purchase too, such as a towel insert, cleaning spray and copper body brush. 

Better known for their hiking shoes Merrell is now making headway in the trail running world with the newly released MTL Long Sky 2 promising to be 'ready for anything'. 

It is a bold claim but one which the shoe largely lives up to, making it one of the best trail running shoes currently on the market.

What makes it stand apart from other brands is the spacious fit which easily accommodates the natural swell of feet on longer trail runs. This is supported by the lightweight and breathable material which is made up of some vegan and recycled materials.

The 5mm lugs handle most terrain with confidence and the relatively thin midsole and 4mm drop make for a responsive, stable run.

The shoe may look a little clunky and be less sexy than competitors but the fit is actually extremely comfortable, and is akin to wearing running slippers.

Here's what we made of it, after testing it out on several lengthy trail runs.

Price and features

Not the cheapest pair of trail shoes the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 retail at $140/£115. This is a pretty standard price for a robust pair of off road shoes these days and is marginally cheaper than top brand models like Saucony Peregrine and Hoka Speedgoat. 

Design and technology

Admittedly this is not the best looking shoe on the market and is not going to win any aesthetic design awards. Because it is a spacious shoe it looks rather cumbersome rather than sleek and speedy.

Color wise there is only one option but it is unisex which is refreshing to see. The Long Sky 2 teal and burnt orange design is not particularly striking but is inoffensive enough to suit most tastes.

The FloatPro Foam is designed to dry quickly so it is suitable for changing and unpredictable weather conditions. The upper has an extremely breathable mesh and the supporting TPU material offers greater durability than traditional EVA. Merrell is also making great strides in sustainability with 100% recycled TPU, mesh footbed cover, tongue webbing and laces.

The MTL Long Sky 2 sticks with the Vibram MegaGrip rubber outsole which continues to provide effective traction on wet and dry surfaces.

Interestingly the Long Sky 2 has moved away from the EVA midsole of its predecessor which was promoted as a light pronation control shoe thanks to its medial post (a strategically placed ‘firm spot’ in the shoe). While the MTL Long Sky had an 8mm drop, the Long Sky 2 has been altered to a more responsive 4mm drop fitted with a FloatPro Foam midsole.

For a runner like me who likes to move with the terrain rather than be supported by a more rigid structure and deeper drop, this is a welcome change. This model has also been upgraded with lighter, more sustainable material.

The shoe now comes with a gaiter d-ring, a feature which did not appear on the earlier model. This makes it easier to fit a gaiter (a garment you wear over the end of your trousers and top of your shoe) to prevent small stones and debris falling inside.

Fit, feel and comfort

Slipping on these shoes does feel like pulling on a pair of cosy slippers. That seems to be down to two things. Firstly the wide, airy toe box gives your toes plenty of room to wiggle. This is reinforced though, so unlike slippers you don't have to worry about stubbing your big toe. And secondly the internal bootie locks your feet in making them feel snug.

While I appreciated the wider fit, even though I have standard size feet, it did mean that lots of debris slipped in. The bootie may be snug around the mid foot but there is still a gaping hole around the ankles. The idea is that you fit a gaiter to the shoe but I would have preferred a narrower fit around the ankle or an integrated collar and tongue like the one found on the Scarpa Golden Gate ATR and Ribelle Run.

Despite the spacious feel the shoes fit well (I always go half a size up) and I had no issues with rubbing. For everyday training up to half marathon distance or gentle recovery runs these felt like a comfy reliable pair of shoes. But I was not confident enough to wear them during a trail marathon because the soles of my feet became a little sore around the 20k mark. They lack the cushioning I prefer for long distance runs but are a great all rounder for easy running and dry quickly when splashing through puddles, bogs or streams which is a real bonus.

Support

These are actually not a bad pair of road to trail shoes and felt pretty comfortable on both terrains. But they came into their own when traversing lumpy fields because they can handle soft variable surfaces with ease. However there was a bit of slippage on wetter and rockier terrain and I didn't feel the 5mm lug was as grippy as my all time favourite Saucony Peregrine 12s. 

User reviews

Runners appear to have nothing but praise for these shoes and unlike myself found them extremely effective on all terrain. 

"My go-to trail runners here in Colarado for technical trails. I wore these shoes while I summited five peaks in two days, during a 28-mile trail run on the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop. Now that I’ve put close to 200 miles on these shoes, I’m stoked to have found one of the most versatile trail runners I’ve ever worn," exclaimed one ultrarunner.

But another runner agreed that these may not be the best shoe for super long distance due to "a lack of cushioning for those truly long events that span more than half a workday."

Verdict

The Merrell Long Sky 2 shoes are definitely reliable; they feel light and breathable on the foot while providing plenty of protection against rugged trails. 

After testing them out, we think they’re best suited to runners looking for a wider fit who run on local trails. While they aren’t the most technical shoe available – and their aesthetic won’t be to everyone’s taste – they are a great all-rounder.

Also try

Saucony Kinvara 12

We’d be remiss not to mention one of our top-rated trail running shoes that doubles as a road shoe: the Saucony Kinvara 12. Slim, light-weight and surprisingly durable, it’s technically just a straightforward running shoe. This means you can take it on roads and marathons, if you’re so inclined – but it works well as a responsive trail runner, too.  

Scarpa Spin Infinity

The Scarpa Spin Infinity, similarly priced to the Long Sky 2, are an extremely comfortable and cushioned pair of trail shoes which will keep your feet feeling fresh for marathon distance and beyond. 

When something sounds too good to be true, there’s usually a catch, but I’m yet to find one with Hydrow’s new, cheaper and more compact rowing machine: the Hydrow Wave. Let me explain…

We tested (and were mightily impressed by) the original Hydrow Rower earlier this year, listing it as one of the best rowing machines you can buy. It quickly won us over with its immersive workouts and fun, informative approach to rowing that made the sport accessible for all ability levels – great news for newcomers, considering the multitude of rowing machine benefits. However, its bulky frame and high price tag may have deterred some would-be buyers.

Then the brand announced the release of the Hydrow Wave; an all-new rowing machine that was not only smaller than its predecessor, but also $1,000 cheaper, with an MSRP of $1,495. And, having got my hands on one of the machines ahead of its UK release, I was not disappointed.

The charms of the original Hydrow Rower were still present in all their glory, with the fantastic app access, video tutorials, live workouts, likable instructors and more available through a (slightly smaller) 16in touchscreen. The unique computer-controlled electromagnetic resistance system also remained, providing the realistic dynamic rowing experience of an air-based machine without the usual noisiness. Here's what we made of it after testing. 

Hydrow Wave: Price and Features

One of the most attractive features of the new Hydrow Wave is its significantly lower price. With an MSRP of $1,495/ £1395, it now costs considerably less than the original Hydrow Rower – a price drop that also makes it more affordable than many smart rowers like the NordicTrack RW900.

You do have to pay $38/£38 a month subscription fee if you want unlimited access to the huge resource of rowing sessions available on the Hydrow platform. But if this style of workout fits your lifestyle, this expense makes sense. 

When it comes to features, I struggled to find many compromises from the full-price Hydrow Rower. The machine maintains the original’s impressive electromagnetic resistance system, and it still has a HD touchscreen. This is slightly smaller than before, down from 22in to 16in, but I found I barely noticed the difference when engrossed and exhausted in classes.  

The frame has been downsized too, now 6in shorter, 6in narrower and 4in lower than its predecessor. This makes it more space-savvy, though it’s still not foldable. You can store it upright to save floor space when it’s not in use, but you’ll need to invest in the Hydrow Upright Storage Kit to do this. 

Most importantly, the app access remains intact. With a staggering 4,300-plus workouts at the time of testing, the platform is crammed full of video tutorials, expert-led virtual rows and live sessions, as well as off-rower strength, core, yoga and Pilates classes. 

Hydrow Wave Review: Design and Assembly

Putting the Hydrow Wave together isn’t a particularly tricky process. A clear set of instructions included in the box walk you through the simple enough procedure, with seven main pieces (the monitor arm, monitor, frame, seat, rail, foot plates and front foot) needing to be connected. 

However, I must admit, my job was made even easier as the machine I tested was assembled by the delivery team upon arrival. 

I found the design simple but effective. Understandably given the revised price tag, some of the solid metal structures of the original Hydrow have been replaced with a criss-crossed plastic frame, but this still felt equally as robust than most rowing machines I’ve tried. This decision also shaved weight off the machine, which is now a more svelte 102lb, making it more maneuverable. Wheels on the front foot make wheeling it from room to room a low-effort exploit too. 

The overall profile is sleek, and Hydrow has given its new machine a dark gray paint job with a textured finish on the rail, which I felt was effective in maintaining the brand’s premium look and feel. 

Hydrow Wave: Performance

Rather than the somewhat uninspiring dashboards of most gym treadmills, or Peloton’s brightly-lit studio classes, Hydrow instead focuses on replicating the rowing experience. It does this by taking you out on the water with expert coaches including Olympic rower Aquil Abdullah and former US national triathlon team member Nick Karwoski. 

Mingling regular pearls of wisdom with amiable patter, these likable instructors focus on helping you improve your technique to boost your performance. There are plenty of challenging workouts for seasoned exercisers, but Hydrow also has fantastic resources in place for beginners. For example, a video tutorial series is available to teach you everything from the fundamentals of rowing to tips and tricks for shaving seconds off your PBs. 

And if you fancy mixing up your workout routine by hopping off the rower, there are plenty of alternative classes available including yoga, Pilates, strength sessions, core work, HIIT and more. Many of these are led by strength and conditioning coach Peter Donohoe (who just happens to be a two-time Olympic bobsledder, for anyone querying his qualifications). 

I found the one-to-one coaching and picturesque real-world locations – from Loch Ness to Miami – more immersive and engaging than most exercise machines I’ve tried. And, while studio classes are undeniably effective when it comes to a one-time sweat-fest, the Hydrow’s emphasis on improving my performance motivated me to keep coming back for more. 

Now, on to the actual rowing machine itself. I was more apprehensive about this element of the testing process, concerned corners may have been cut to lessen the size, weight and cost of the product. However, within a few strokes of my first workout, these worries dissipated. The resistance worked smoothly to create a dynamic rowing experience and despite the machine’s smaller dimensions the rail still allowed me (at 6ft 2in tall) to fully extend my legs with each stroke. 

The cushioned seat felt comfortable during longer sessions too, which is always a big plus in my eyes.

Hydrow Wave Review: Tech and data

The reason many people choose to swerve magnetic rowers like the Hydrow in favor of air or water-based machines (like the Concept2 RowErg or the Waterrower Natural) is they don’t offer a dynamic stroke. Or, in other words, they can’t emulate the on-water feeling where the more force you put into your pull, the more resistance you are met with. However, Hydrow’s clever computer-controlled electromagnetic mechanism does just this. So, the more you put into your workout, the more you’ll get out.

I found this offered a smooth and realistic stroke action similar to the trusty Concept 2 which sits in my home gym, and is widely considered the gold standard for rowing machines. However, the Hydrow made a fraction of the noise – something that will delight neighbors and family members alike, if you’re partial to an unsociable hour workout.  

With the Hydrow Wave’s focus on replicating a realistic rowing experience, and improving your performance as a result, it makes sense that the machine gives you plenty of metrics to track your performance. As you row, data on your stroke rate, average 500m split time, total distance, calories burned and more is displayed around the screen. You also have the option to see a live leaderboard showing how you compare to other Hydrow-users around the world – a fantastic motivator for competitive sorts. 

Hydrow Wave Review: Verdict

Honestly, it’s hard to find fault with the Hydrow Wave. It has all the smart features of the inaugural Hydrow Rower while addressing the original machine’s significant size and weight. What’s more, it does all this while cutting $1,000 off the price tag of its predecessor. It looks smart, and profits from a clever electromagnetic resistance system that delivers a realistic rowing experience without the noise that comes with its air rower rivals. Excellent video tutorials make it a great choice for beginners looking for a fun new way to get their fitness fix. But, don’t be fooled, there are plenty of challenging sessions to keep ardent exercisers on their toes too.   

Also consider

Concept2 RowErg

If you’re a seasoned rower, chances are you’ll want the Concept2 RowErg – the industry standard when it comes to rowing machines. Robust, reliable and refreshingly simple, this machine has everything you need for a great workout. It has some preset sessions, but the RowErg is best when you approach it with a preconceived plan, whether that’s a class programmed by your coach or a workout you’ve found online. It doesn’t need to be plugged into a mains outlet either, making it a great fit for sheds, garages or even al fresco sessions if the weather allows it.  

Echelon Smart Rower

Anyone after a smart rower for under $1,000 should keep an eye out for the Echelon Smart Rower. While it doesn’t have a touchscreen like its Hydrow and NordicTrack rivals, you can connect your phone or tablet to the Echelon App and place it in a specially designed holster above the fan cage to enjoy live and on-demand follow-along workouts.  

The Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoes are the brand’s sustainable walking-shoe solution and are intended to be as well-matched for hardy hikes as for navigating the trails. 

We headed into nature, taking the flash orange, beige, and amber AX4s with us for several testing rambles to see how they fared and whether their performance could match their striking looks. We weren’t let down, although our feet were left sweatier than anticipated. That aside, this walking shoe stepped straight into our line-up for the best shoes for walking.

If you’re unsure how to choose walking shoes, our guide is worth a look. Ideally, you’re aiming to strike a balance between comfort, support, and grip – minus the heavy-duty feel typical of hard-wearing hiking boots. The AX4s are cut neatly below the ankle and could pass as an everyday sneaker, although the chunky aesthetic lends itself better to tackling mountain treks rather than visiting the mall. 

The Terrex AX4s can be scooped up for $100/£120, though we have also put together the best walking shoes on sale, for you to pick up more great deals on shoes for all walking styles. Read on to get the lowdown on the Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoe. 

Design and technology

Adidas certainly hasn’t taken the subtle route when designing the AX4s. If you prefer to fly under the radar, the all-black designs are sleek and stylish, but those seeking flair can pick from color combos such as acid red, impact orange, and pulse olive. The shoes also have sustainability in mind: 50% of the upper is recycled content and the shoe itself is made from Adidas’s Primegreen fabric (recycled materials).

Bulkier than your average running sneaker, the shoe comprises a combination of a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane and a continental rubber outsole, which gives it the durable traction required for hiking. 

The mesh and synthetic upper feels impenetrable and houses a thick-lace closure system and padded tongue so you can draw the shoes tight without chafing on the top of your foot. The EVA midsole (foam, for shock absorption and extra comfort) feels spongy and bouncy underfoot and provides ample cushioning for tired, aching arches. 

The thick outsole finishes the look, flecked with ragged grooved ridges on its underside to grab even the slippiest surfaces. It’s not dissimilar to a tire or mountain bike tread, offering hikers some seriously sticky grip factor in wetter weather. 

Fit, feel, and comfort

We wear a size US 5/ UK 3.5 and felt the shoe fit perfectly at first, though after a long walk we wished we’d ordered a half size up as our feet generated a lot of heat. You also need to accommodate for walking socks and toes pressing forward as you walk or descend hills, and after sifting through reviews, it seems this opinion is echoed by many. We recommend opting for a roomier model than you’d usually pick. 

Adidas has nailed comfort, stability, and cushioning with the Terrex AX4s and we could have kept walking for longer without our feet tiring. We’re not kidding when we say the midsole is bouncy: the super-soft and cushioned midsole is plush underfoot and feels like you’re walking across a trampoline. However, anyone with high arches may find this shoe uncomfortable and could require an insole for better support.

Adidas markets these shoes as offering a “lightweight trail running feel with the stability of a hiking shoe”. We wanted them to feel as light as a feather, but unfortunately, they’re a touch heavier duty than anticipated. 

The shoes cut under the ankle and provide flexibility and range of motion through your foot and ankle – and increase the comfort stakes considerably – but we wouldn’t describe them as lightweight. They sit somewhere between a traditional hiking shoe and trail running shoe; as a 5ft 2in wearer, we found the rigid hardwearing upper and thick outsole heavier than anything we’d choose to run trails in. 

The shoes also lacked breathability, and we found our feet were sweaty after a hot 8km walk. Considering their GORE-TEX credentials, we were hoping for more ventilation than we got. However, we admire the versatility of this shoe and there’s no doubt you could take the dog for countryside walks, commute to work, scale some mountain peaks and trudge through mud – all while wearing the Adidas Terrex AX4s. 

Considering how durable the Terrex AX4s feel, the shoe still retains ample bend and pliability underfoot. This means you don’t feel restricted as you climb and get more freedom through your midfoot without sacrificing stability. The toe box tip is stiff, but this shouldn’t be a problem if you opt for a half size up and wear walking socks, and we think the walking shoe needs this rigidity to handle tough terrain. 

A big talking point is the padded non-slip heels that measure just under 2in thick. This is where most of the cushioning is, and we felt the shoe scooping our heels to put a big spring in our step. 

Support and grip

You need only glance at particular models of hiking shoes to know it’s going to be a painful few months breaking them in, but that’s not the case with the Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoes; they’re comfortable from the get-go.

The standard for pliability meets rigidity has been set. The AVA midsole adds support and stability through your foot so your foot still feels adequately encased without the fear of dodgy rolled ankles. 

The low arch may divide its buyers, so we recommend checking if you need specialist support shoes or insoles before you buy. We have fairly low arches and found the Adidas Terrex AX4s snugly hugged them without locking or pressing our feet flat.

The traction outsoles of the Terrain AX4s are visible even without turning the shoe upside down; jagged curved ridges cover the bottom of the shoe and lift the outsole just shy of the ground, creating ample grip for you to confidently explore your surroundings. Unfortunately, this means the shoe could gather grit and mud in wet conditions, but it’s a fair trade-off for the amount of security. 

Everything required to improve grip factor can be ticked off here – a low arch provides better foot-floor connection, a protective tread pattern deflects water and a flexible sole improves your range of motion. 

User reviews

The Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoe pulls in a respectable 4.3 stars on the Adidas website. Buyers rated quality at 4.4 and comfort 4.2 stars. 

Many commented on the size, recommending fellow buyers consider a half or full-size up. One user commented, “these shoes would be suitable for climbing a mountain,” and praised their “rugged toughness”, while another loved the sturdy base. 

However, some said the sizes came up too tight and felt the upper wasn’t waterproof enough. One user also said, “There is excessive padding where my heel meets the back of the shoe, which makes it impossible to get a secure fit.”

Verdict

The Adidas Terrex AX4 GORE-TEX hiking shoe could well be the love child of a trail-running sneaker and hiking boot – if you like a chunkier trainer. The durable upper, soft padding, and thickly set heel and outsole combine into a grippy and sturdy walking shoe destined for hitting the road for miles, but their lack of breathability lends them to cooler climates if you want to avoid overheated feet. 

They’re more supple than your average hiking boot and you can slip them on like a sneaker without the endless corset-like lacing of traditional hiking boots. However, we highly recommend a size up if you want to maximize this walking shoe’s potential. 

Also consider

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze

The Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze shoes are the perfect all-rounder for city sightseers or casual dog-walkers who like the outdoors without the commitment to hiking. They’re comfortable and supportive and offer a more lightweight alternative for long walks than your heavier hiking boot. 

Merrell Moab 3

The Merrell Moab 3 walking shoes marry traditional hiking aesthetics with a sneaker but are more than equipped to deal with the great outdoors. They pack plenty of stability and versatility for keen mountain-hikers and countryside-walkers alike, so you’re covered regardless of how you like to wander.

The Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells set isn't going to win any awards for innovation. The set is made up of two screw plate dumbbells, which means you'll have to manually unscrew a 'collar' each time you want to add on a weighted plate. This is a time-consuming process that can really slow down your workout.

Because they're such a basic and fiddly model, we don't rate them as the best adjustable dumbbells on the market. That award goes to the incredibly well-designed Core Home Fitness dumbbells instead, which allow you to change weights with a flick of your wrist. 

However, the Amazon dumbbells are a lot cheaper than the other models we've tested, coming in at just over $50 (or around £80 if you're in the UK). The popular budget weights can also withstand a lot of abuse, thanks to their durable steel design. And they still fall on the favourable side of the adjustable vs fixed weight dumbbell debate, offering a range of weight options in one compact package. 

Here's what we made of them after trying them out for a week. 

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: Price

At just $51.74/£78.78, these are by far the cheapest dumbbells we’ve tested – most premium models cost around $400. However, this model is significantly cheaper for a reason. You’ll spend a lot of time screwing plates on and off when you want to change your weights and there’s no comfortable rubber grip here; just a tough metal handle that can cause blisters. 

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: Weight range

These are the only adjustable set of dumbbells in the Amazon Basics range. With this set, you get two hand barbells weighing 3lb/1.3kg each, plus four 5lb/2.27kg weight plates, four 2.5lb/1.13kg weight plates and four threaded collars coming in at 0.5lb/0.23kg each. This gives you a total weight of 38lb/17kg across both dumbbells and a maximum weight of 19lb/8.6kg per dumbbell. 

It is possible to fit all the weight plates onto one barbell, which all together totals 34lb/15.4kg and could be used for targeted exercises such as a single arm bicep curl, or a shoulder press. However, if you're looking for a pair of really heavy dumbbells, then these weights aren't for you.

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: Design

These look very much like a traditional set of old-school dumbbells. The barbell is silver metal, while the round weight plates come in a semi-gloss black colour. Not everyone has the space for a beast-sized pair of dumbbells and these Amazon Basics are a smaller, more compact option when compared to other models (L17in/43cm x W6.2in/15.7cm x H9.4in/23.9cm). In fact, they are the smallest set of the adjustable dumbbells we have reviewed. 

They are also the only set without a cradle to house them. Instead, they come in a handy portable case which makes them super easy to store or take on holiday. Each barbell comes with a metal textured grip handle that’s supposed to give you a secure hold. However it feels rough, scratchy and really uncomfortable, so we’d definitely recommend weight-training gloves for a more comfortable lifting experience. 

Thanks to heavy duty rubber washers on the inside ends of each barbell and threaded collar, when done up tightly these weights don’t clank around and they’re completely noiseless. All-in-all they feel solid on pretty much every exercise we tried and we felt no need to be gentle when getting them to the floor between sets. 

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: Set-up and features

There’s nothing really to set up here, you simply take everything out of the portable box and load the barbells. However, thanks to the fiddly threaded collars which hold the weight plates on the barbell, the whole loading and unloading process can take around 30 to 60 seconds per weight change. 

This can be a bit frustrating mid-workout, especially if you have sweaty hands and the threaded collars don’t want to play ball. If you’re looking for something more rapid, the TwistLock technology in the Core Home Fitness adjustable dumbbell takes just seconds to complete. Simplicity is key when it comes to the Amazon Basics models and there’s no fancy extras that come with these. 

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: Verdict

What you see is what you get with these. They aren’t the best adjustable dumbbells on the market, but they are one of the cheapest. If you’re a beginner and looking to add some simple progressive overload to your training, these are a great option without any airs and graces. 

They offer a decent enough weight range so that you can play about with them for everything from chest presses to sumo squats. You might even be able to afford two sets, giving you a maximum weight of 34lb/15.4kg per barbell. The travel case is a fantastic idea and offers a great way to maintain your training regime while on holiday. 

Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells: User reviews

These dumbbells have netted a 4.6 star rating out of five on Amazon, with over 6,900 people submitting reviews. Happy customers praise the low price and the solid, steel material used in the dumbbell. Negative reviews state that the carrying box is flimsy and likely to break over time – and some people claim that there were metal shards and shavings in their box.  

Also consider

Core Fitness adjustable dumbbells

Despite being a relatively unknown brand, the Core Fitness adjustable dumbbells are the best weights that we've tested. They feel solid and dependable in the hand – and their easy weight changing mechanism means that you can swiftly add or take away a few pounds during a workout, so you don't need to fiddle with tricky screw collars. They are more expensive though, coming it at around $399

Ativafit adjustable dumbbells

The Ativafit dumbbells mimic the design of most premium models, with a quick-release weight changing mechanism. However, they're about $100 cheaper than most high-end designs. While they're still more expensive than the Amazon Basics models (they're priced at $379.99) they're also a lot easier to use.

I can’t pretend I wasn’t looking forward to this Incus Nova review. When much of my testing revolves around established categories - like the best running watches or walking shoes - it’s always exciting to try out a pioneering new product.

The Incus Nova is just that, with its spaceship-esque central module slipping into a specially-designed vest and sitting at the top of the spine to analyze both running and swimming performance. 

Through its unique central positioning, it tracks your technique rather than your physiological responses to the activity - like heart rate. So, you can enjoy detailed data on your cadence, stride impact and flight time when running, or your body angles and swim economy when in the water (more on this below). 

The information-packed Incus Cloud app also provides plenty of actionable technique tips to help improve your performance too - acting as a compact coach without the running cost of regular one-to-one sessions.

So, is it as clever as it sounds, or is it too good to be true? We got our hands on the Incus Nova to find out. 

Incus Nova: Price and features

There are several options when buying the product from the Incus website. The swim bundle and the running bundle will each set you back $247/ £213. These contain the central unit, Incus Cloud app access for viewing your feedback, and a specially-designed vest - the Core Run T-Strap for running and the Incus FIIN Vest for swimming. 

Alternatively, you can buy the swim plus run bundle for $370/ £320, which comes with both vests and allows you to track both activities on the app. Music to the ears of triathletes; the creators of the Incus Nova tell me cycling tracking is currently in the works.

This may seem like a hefty investment at first, but when the likes of Whoop and Fitbit are charging monthly fees for no-holds-barred access to their tracking apps, it can be nice to pay a one-off fee. You also get in-depth data you would expect from a coach or professional analyst, and it’s definitely cheaper than privately hiring either of these. 

Incus Nova: Workout performance

While there was a lot to love with the Incus Nova, I found it was a tale of two activities when reviewing its workout performance. Let’s start with where it excelled during my tests: running.

I went for three runs with the tracker; a short and relatively fast 3km, an interval session, and a recovery run. It doesn’t have an in-built GPS, so I linked it to my phone for route and distance tracking. 

The Incus Nova can be controlled intuitively from the app, where you can start, stop and sync your session. Syncing workout data can take a while, particularly for longer sessions, but the result is worth it. 

I was met with a veritable smorgasbord of data, including everything from my cadence to the average impact and takeoff force of my strides (with data for both my left and right side to highlight any imbalances). 

Alongside each data set was a digestible graph and a question mark button which revealed insights into what each figure meant and how to improve your score. As something of a stat-fiend, this was my favorite feature of the product, acting like a personal performance analyst in my pocket. 

Following this, I was excited to try it in the water. However, it was here that I encountered a few problems. 

For obvious reasons, you can’t control swim-tracking from your phone. Instead, just before you’re about to push off to start your swim, you press the solitary power button on the central unit to start recording. This will cause it to vibrate and a light on the unit will switch from green to blue. But, with the unit on my back, I had no way of knowing whether the light had changed. 

As a result, when I checked to see if the first part of my swimming session had recorded successfully, I found the unit had switched off rather than started tracking, leaving me without any data. 

I then switched it on and tracked the second half of my swim, but the data I received was incomplete. There was interesting feedback on my body angles in the water, which were above the recommended range meaning I was tilting too far from side to side with each stroke. However, I was missing other data such as a full swim economy score. 

Contacting the Incus team, I was told this was likely down to the use of the Core Run T-Strap rather than the specialist swimming FIIN vest, with the T-Strap working well in some swim sessions during the brand's testing but moving too much while swimming to provide accurate data in others (more on this in the Design and Comfort section below).

Incus Nova: Data tracking

Providing in-depth metrics for every run and swim, the Incus Nova feels like having a one-to-one instructor at your beck and call. 

The running feedback shows your pacing and cadence, power and elevation (a measure of energy per step versus height gained), take off and landing (the acceleration and impact forces generated with each step), and stride flight and contact times. 

Meanwhile, after swimming sessions, you can view your pacing and splits, swim economy (a measure of stroke efficiency using the ratio of propulsive and restrictive forces acting upon you), stroke rate, and (most interestingly) body angles in the water. This last one was the most interesting in my eyes, as your torso should not pitch more than 20 degrees either way while doing front crawl - something my results showed I definitely need to work on.  

Thanks to its central position at the top of the spine, the Incus Nova can also provide individual figures for your left and right side. I found this a really smart feature, showing any imbalances in your technique that may need addressing to improve efficiency.

Incus Nova: Design and comfort

One of the most important things to address when testing wearable fitness tech is whether it’s comfortable or cumbersome. Happily, the Incus Core Run T-Strap vest proved to be the latter; within a few meters I forgot I was even wearing it, with the stretchy, lightweight material moving well with my body. 

I was provided with both the T-Strap and the FIIN Vest for testing. The unisex FIIN vest is designed to fit tightly to be unobtrusive and provide “NetZero drag effects”. However, while the T-Strap vest fit me perfectly, the FIIN vest proved too small and I could not attach the front zipper. So, it might be worth ordering a size up, or paying close attention to the size guide on the Incus website.  

I was advised the T-Strap could be worn in the water, and this felt comfortable and unrestrictive throughout my pool sessions, though it was attributed with causing the tracking errors mentioned above. 

Incus Nova: User reviews

As a niche product only available via the Incus website, user reviews of the Nova available online are few and far between, though the Incus website features favorable feedback from wearers. 

Pro triathlete David McNamee says that, “Tracking run power means I can stay consistent in my training,” and Olympic gold medal-winning triathlete Alistair Brownlee (who has been a part of the product’s development process) adds: “I’ve really enjoyed working with the Incus team to produce accurate and useful information that can add something to everyone’s training.”

Incus Nova: Verdict

It’s hard to compare the Incus Nova to other running watches as it fills a very different role - providing technique feedback rather than showing how your body responds to exercise. Given this differing functionality and its ability to link to a Garmin or iPhone (with further brands to follow) it’s likely you would want both devices rather than choosing one or the other. 

I was a big fan of the running feedback and actionable advice for improving my performance available via the app, which I was able to put into practice on my very next session. The individualized data for your right and left side is another feature that sets it apart, highlighting imbalances in your technique.

However, it was let down by the incomplete swimming feedback provided. 

Overall, I would recommend this to serious runners and triathletes chasing that competitive edge. The detailed data goes beyond what casual exercisers will want or need, but performance-driven individuals will love the depth of the forensic feedback. 

Also consider

Polar Vantage V2

You may want a wrist-worn running watch to accompany your Incus Nova. If that’s the case, you can’t go far wrong with the Polar Vantage V2 - our top-rated tried and tested running watch. It does everything you would expect from a running watch, and then some, with sleep tracking, fitness tests, and more. It can also monitor running, swimming and cycling non-stop - welcome news for passionate triathletes.

Garmin Enduro

Alternatively, we have no hesitation in recommending the Garmin Enduro. Garmin rarely misses a beat when it comes to wearable tech, and the Enduro is no different, with a wealth of data available and phenomenal battery life. There’s even a solar-charged boost, so it’s got enough juice to see you through even the longest endurance events. 

We've got you covered if you've been looking for a fitness-focused Apple Watch Series 7 review. We put Apple's latest flagship smartwatch to the test to see if there's a capable fitness tracker hidden under the Watch's stylish exterior. 

We found that the Apple Watch Series 7 makes a pitch for the best running watch, but ultimately, it is better if you're a more casual runner or don't require it for any particularly long routes or races. It does make for a good general-purpose tracker, though, capable of recording yoga classes, gym workouts, or HIIT sessions. 

It's really easy to start recording a run on the watch, and you can customize the on-screen metrics by adjusting this in your settings. Plus, the Watch Series 7 is compatible with popular running apps such as Strava and RunKeeper, and you can leave your iPhone at home while out for a run, thanks to the built-in GPS. 

In keeping with Apple's closed ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 7 only works with the iPhone, so, sadly, this watch is of little use to any Android-owning runners out there. Compared to running-focused watches from Garmin or Polar, the Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't have great battery life—you'll need to charge it almost daily. 

This is why it just doesn't seem like a suitable watch for keen marathon runners or more adventurous runners. In fairness to Apple, it hasn't designed the Watch Series 7 for this purpose. The wearable is more suited to various everyday activities, like receiving notifications and taking phone calls. But it is definitely not one to rule out; read on to find out everything we did and didn't like about the Apple Watch Series 7. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: price and features

If you're thinking of buying the Apple Watch Series 7, you will be spending $399/£369 on one. The Series 7 comes in two sizes, the smaller being 41mm and the larger being 45mm. Plus, the smartwatch is available in five different colors: midnight, starlight, green, blue, and red.

For reference, we tested out the 45mm Series 7 in the color Starlight. We often comment on how the more rugged-looking running watches we test, like the Garmin Instinct 2S, can look clunky off the running track and paired with everyday clothing. The Apple Watch Series 7 is one of the few watches where this hasn't been the case.

Apple's ring-based system for tracking your physical activity is available on the watch face and is a great way to check in on your progress throughout the day, showing your movement (calories), exercise (time), and standing time. You can customize the on-screen running and workout metrics using the Watch app on your iPhone. 

The following metrics are available to choose from: distance, duration, average pace, current pace, active calories, total calories, heart rate, and elevation gain. Compared to the competition, it's relatively basic, but the GPS tracking proved pretty accurate for us during testing. 

In theory, you could use this watch for more serious training and replace one of the more comprehensive running watches with the third-party apps available to download to the Apple Watch Series 7. But the real bug-bear with this watch is its battery life; we had to charge this watch every morning. 

Incredibly, despite first launching back in 2015, the Apple Watch only recently gained full sleep tracking with the release of the watchOS 7 software update. But since the Apple Watch doesn't have a considerable reputation for sleep tracking, we weren't fussed about not wearing this watch to bed and instead charged it overnight.

With this watch, you can use Apple's Fitness+ app, meaning you have access to heaps of guided workouts, and the first three months are on Apple. We enjoyed using the Mindfulness app while testing out this Apple watch.

A session begins with a question for you to reflect on, followed by a display of moving and colliding shapes. This might sound a bit airy-fairy to some, but it is a nice way to either get into the zone for a run or race or to help you relax before bed.

Mental well-being is equally important to physical well-being, so it's nice to see a fitness watch make this more accessible for users. Apple Fitness+ is currently an exclusive feature tied to the Apple Watch, but be sure to check out our Apple Fitness+ review before signing up. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: design

If you're not into wearing big bright wrist straps or clunky black fitness trackers, then you will probably enjoy how the Apple Watch Series 7 looks on your wrist; we certainly did while testing the Starlight model.

The colors on offer with the Series 7 are more muted than some older models and make for a more subtle look on the wrist. The crown button is a helpful way to navigate around the watch, especially mid-workout when your hands are too sweaty to operate the touch screen with ease.

This latest edition of the Apple Watch is more durable, with an IP6X rating for dust resistance. We enjoyed the OLED display on this watch and noticed no scratches or marks on the screen during testing.

The Series 7 is waterproof for shallow water activities (up to 50 meters), but this is the same for all Apple Watch models from the Series 2 onwards. If you're a keen runner and dabble in triathlon or are considering it, you might be better with an alternative. 

For regular water-based exercise, something like the Garmin Forerunner 735 XT is a better option as it's been designed especially for tracking swimming, running, and cycling together, and it's beginner friendly, too. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: display

The Apple Watch Series 7 is theoretically easier to use than earlier models, thanks to its sizable display. It's 20% larger than previous editions, so there's more room on the display and an extended touch-compatible area. 

The edition of the Apple Watch comes with an always-on display, which is brighter than older Apple watch models. This dials up the brightness during specific activities. The default Apple apps have this enabled, but other developers have to build it into their software, so your favorite apps might not have this just yet. 

The larger display on the Apple Watch Series 7 means you can use the expanded on-screen keyboard from your wrist. This can come in handy when out for a walk or run and if you need to send a quick 'Yes' or 'Be back soon' message, but we think it's still too much faff for anything longer.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: data tracking

Many people compare Apple Watch vs Fitbit to track their daily steps, but this doesn't mean the Apple Watch is limited to everyday activities like walking. As well as pretty regular activities like running and cycling, you can track more diverse forms of exercise like Pilates, hiking, and Tai chi.

Plus, if you regularly work out at the gym or own any of the best exercise machines to lose weight, you can sync your Watch with GymKit-compatible equipment. As a result, you can track equipment-based workouts just as you would a run or weights session and add them to your Apple Health profile. 

Your Apple Watch comes with a three-month free trial of the Apple Fitness+ virtual workout platform. We hate to miss out on a free trial, so we gave the classes a go. It's worthwhile purchasing if you work out from home and need that element of motivation that you typically get in an in-person fitness class with others.

The workouts aren't live, but there are several instructors for different classes (such as HIIT, yoga, treadmill workouts, and mindful cooldowns) that provide clear and positive instruction, and the exercises are challenging. 

We already mentioned sleep tracking. As we had to charge our Watch Series 7 overnight to survive the next day, it was impractical to test it out overnight on our wrist. When we did wear it to track our sleep, we didn't gain much helpful information in the morning other than our overall sleep time.

There is no detail on your sleep modes, how restless you were, and how this ties in with your overall body battery between exercise and rest. It's surprising, mainly because there have been so many iterations of the Apple Watch for them to add these relatively basic metrics. 

Likewise, we would have liked to have seen the addition of interval sessions to this watch, and as a result, we view this as a pretty basic watch for tracking your running training. Nonetheless, the Series 7 has a selection of helpful GPS sensors, including GPS, QZSS, GLONASS, and Beidou. 

These all allow the watch to see big satellites in the sky and help to track you as you move around. During testing, we compared the heart rate monitor to a more technical running watch (the Garmin Forerunner 735XT) and got nearly identical readings.

As with the Apple Watch Series 5 and 6, the Series 7 includes a SpO2 sensor for monitoring your blood oxygen levels. If you're into learning more about how you're overall health affects your fitness, readings like this are a good place to start. Although these tracking features aren't medical-grade, they are still useful to see and could detect potential health issues.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: performance

We didn't have many qualms about the overall performance of the Apple Watch Series 7 during testing. The large screen was crisp to read, and the watch's touch response was very effective.

The device charges reasonably quickly and is fast to respond to touch and voice commands around the interface. It was straightforward to set up, and despite not having as excellent battery life as other fitness watches out there, it never died on us nor crashed during any activities.

It was a pretty seamless experience using this watch, and any faults we have identified have little to do with the actual performance of this watch and more to do with its limitations in terms of functions and features.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: battery life

The battery life of the Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't fare well against other running or fitness watches, averaging about a day of use. Some alternatives, like the Garmin Instinct Solar, even come with solar charging, so you don't even need to plug it in. 

However, we found that the Apple Watch Series 7 lasts up to 20 hours on a single charge, or you can push this to a day and a half if you aren't fussed about having the always-on display toggled on.

If you want to track your sleep on top of daily exercise and activity, then you will need to plug it in before bed. It's also worthwhile pointing out that the Series 7 charges using a USB-C cable with a magnetic plate for the watch, so you'll need to ensure you have a compatible charging port.

We worked around this by charging it via our laptop, but this may frustrate some people who are used to the more standard USB-A charging cables. However, the USB-C technology can charge your watch much faster than the older USB cables. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: verdict

The Apple Watch Series 7 is a great all-around choice for anyone looking to track and improve their fitness on a more general level. It's user-friendly in our eyes and a lot easier to navigate than some models, especially for first-time fitness watch buyers, but it is only available to iPhone users. 

Alongside the Apple Watch's core functions, like calls, notifications, and messaging, you can track the basics of your running training and other activities like Pilates and hiking. And if you extend the three-month free trial of Apple Fitness+, you can definitely improve your fitness via the selection of guided workouts provided.

But if you're really into your fitness, want to train for a specific event, or like to keep tabs on your personal bests while navigating complex trails, there are better options out there. Overall, the Apple Watch Series 7 is an excellent choice if you want to monitor your everyday activity, but we still feel the single-day battery life is a bit of a letdown for a watch this expensive. 

Also consider

If you aren't sold on the Apple Watch Series 7 or use an Android smartphone, you do have other excellent options if you're looking for the perfect wearable for your workouts. Check out the different options below or read our in-depth guides to the best running watch or the best fitness tracker.

Fitbit Versa 3

If you're after a casual but stylish watch to track your runs without the Apple price tag, consider the Fitbit Versa 3. This Google-powered smartwatch tracks your workouts, monitors your sleep, and keeps an eye on your heart. Plus, it's water resistant up to 50m and has a large display, like the Apple Watch. 

Garmin Venu 2 Plus

If you’re looking to step up your running then the Garmin Venu 2 Plus smartwatch is a good stepping stone toward tracking more running-specific stats. It doesn’t look too clunky for a running watch, has a color touchscreen, built-in GPS for tracking your route, and offers more in-depth sleep analysis than the Apple Watch Series 7. 

It’s time to put Beats’ most expensive earbuds to the test in our Beats Powerbeats Pro review. Beats are one of the most premium brands in the headphone space at the moment, and it’s put a lot of work into shaking the early “style over substance” reputation that it picked up, but do these high-end earbuds do enough to justify their lofty price tag?

On paper, Powerbeats Pro come with a lot of the features you’d expect to see from the best workout earbuds. They’re truly wireless, have great battery life, and offer sweat and water resistance to keep them going during sweaty workouts or outside exercise.

They also have an ear hook design to keep them firmly attached during intense training. There is one major omission from the package though—the lack of noise-canceling tech. 

That’s a pretty major downside, especially when you consider that other fitness-focused headphones like the Jabra Elite 7 Active or Sony WF-1000XM4 do pack some form of noise cancellation.

So, do the Powerbeats Pro have other strengths to justify this, and their hefty price tag, or does the competition leave them in the dust? Check out our Powerbeats Pro review for the full breakdown. 

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: price and features

The Powerbeats Pro are on the pricier side of the workout headphones that we’ve looked at, costing $249.95/£219.95. For the price, you get the headphones, a set of changeable ear tips, the charging case, and a Lightning to USB-A charging cable. There is no mains adapter included, though you can buy one separately if needed.

There are three color options to choose from; Black, Ivory, and Navy. If you buy them from the Beats or Apple website, you can also personalize your Powerbeats Pros with a custom engraving.

Unlike most other Beats earbuds, the Powerbeats Pro are aimed squarely at the fitness market, and there are a couple of key features that showcase that. The most obvious adjustment is the ear hooks which lock the earbuds firmly in place to stop them from falling out during exercise.

I thoroughly tested this feature and nearly knocked myself out trying to get them to fall off to no avail, so you can be sure that once you’ve put these earbuds in, they’re not going to fall out during exercise. I found actually putting them on can be a little undignified though, as it’s a bit of a hassle trying to get the loops over your ears.

Another fitness-focused feature of the Powerbeats Pro is that they’re both sweat and water resistant, with an IPX4 water resistance rating. They’re not waterproof so you can’t go swimming with them, but they should survive a downpour while you’re out for a jog. I wore these out in the rain on multiple occasions and had no issues.

The Powerbeats Pro are fully wireless and connect to your device via Bluetooth. There are controls on each earbud, with physical buttons rather than touch controls.

The Beats logo on each earbud is the main pause/play button, and then there are volume controls on top of the bud. These controls are functionally identical on both sides, so you can skip tracks or pause with either hand depending on which is easier at the time.

Battery life on the Powerbeats Pros is decent, but not exceptional. Apple advertises around nine hours on a single charge, with just shy of another two full charges in the charging case for a total of “more than 24 hours of playback”.

When they do run out of juice, Powerbeats Pro also have a Fast Fuel feature that offers 1.5 hours of playback after five minutes charging—ideal for when you find out you forgot to charge them five minutes before you’re heading out to the gym.

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: sound quality

While all the swanky fitness features are important, at the end of the day these are still a pair of earbuds, so sound quality is massively important. Fortunately, I have to say that I’ve been impressed by the output of the Powerbeats Pros. 

As with other recent Beats headphones, the overpowering bass that the brand was famous for in the past has been dialed back in favor of a more balanced sound profile.

Don’t get me wrong, you can still get some punchy bass through on the tracks that need it, like Muse’s Hysteria or Deadmau5's Faxing Berlin, but it doesn’t drown everything else out. 

I went to some classic tunes to test out the highs. Steely Dan’s Do It Again sounded great through the Pros, with that opening medley coming through with good clarity. Likewise the highs on Future’s Mask Off came through clearly too.

They’re not going to blow dedicated audiophiles away; my everyday earbuds are a pair of Beats Studio Buds and I definitely prefer those for normal use, but as a pair of workout earbuds, they’re definitely up to the task.

That brings me onto one of the major downsides of the Powerbeats Pro—the lack of noise-cancelation. If you’re out for a run in a quiet park or your gym isn’t too busy, it’s not going to be an issue, but the lack of noise cancellation was super noticeable when I used these on public transport or near busy roads.

I tend to have the volume a little higher than I should, and that covers for some of this weakness, but it’s not an ideal solution, especially since  listening to music at loud volumes for extended periods can lead to hearing damage. So just be aware that if you’re usually working out in loud environments, these might not be the earbuds for you. 

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: design and comfort

The Powerbeats Pro look pretty sleek, assuming you’re into the ear hook style of headphones. The entire earbud is one solid color, with the recognisable Beats logo emblazoned on the side button.

I found that the standard eartips worked fine for me, but you also get three additional pairs of tips in different sizes to help you find a more comfortable fit if needed. Changing the tips is a little fiddly, but nothing too bad. 

The earhooks themselves are flexible, which lets you wrangle them around your ears when you’re putting on, or taking off the earbuds. This flexibility also means that they should feel comfortable to wear for a larger range of users.

I found the Powerbeats Pro to be very comfortable to wear during long sessions, and the earhook ensured that they never felt loose, or like they were going to fall out. 

The earhooks do substantially increase the size of the earbuds though which directly creates the other big issue with the Powerbeats Pros—the size of the case. This thing is an absolute unit.

It has to be this big to accommodate the large ear loops that weld them onto your head during a workout, but it makes the case simply too big to carry in your pocket comfortably.

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: battery life

As I mentioned earlier, Beats claim a 9-hour battery life for the earbuds, with a total of 24 hours when you count the extra charges in the case. While I didn’t count it with a stopwatch, during my time testing the Powerbeats Pro I never had an issue with battery life. 

The only issue I did have was with the Beats app on my Android phone, which would never detect the battery life left in my earbuds properly, meaning I often had no way of knowing how much battery charge I had left.

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: user reviews

Apple and Beats don’t have customer review sections on their websites, so I wasn't able to gather any data from there, but the Powerbeats Pro do have an overwhelmingly positive rating on Amazon with a 4.6 star rating from 73,793 reviews.

Positive reviews often mentioned the great sound quality, battery life, and fit. Even the most positive reviewers did concur with us on the bulky case though. Other negative reviews noted that they found the mid-range tones lacking.

Beats Powerbeats Pro review: verdict

The Powerbeats Pro are a decent pair of fitness headphones and if they were a little bit cheaper, I’d have a much easier time recommending them. The sound quality is great, they’re comfortable to wear and the battery life is top notch too.

But at $250, we’d expect everything to be near perfect, and there are a couple of issues that hold them back. The mid-range gets a little lost, there is no noise-canceling, and the case is bigger than some sedans.

If you can find them at a decent discount, or you’re an absolute Beats fanatic then we’d definitely recommend the Powerbeats Pro, but for everyone else, the price of entry is just a little too steep.

Also consider

1. Jabra Elite 7 Active

 If you’re looking for premium workout earbuds that do come with active noise cancellation, then the Jabra Elite Active 7 have you covered. On top of that, they’re water and sweat resistant, and have a much smaller case that can easily fit in your pocket. Oh, and they’re cheaper than the Powerbeats Pro too. 

2. Skullcandy Push Active

On the other end of the price scale, Skullcandy Push Active offer exceptional value for money if you’re looking for workout earbuds that don’t break the bank. They don’t have fancy features like ANC, but they’re comfortable, cheap, come with hands-free voice commands, and have a seriously impressive battery life. 

The biggest selling point of the Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is their versatility; when it comes to running, there’s very little they can’t do. 

This is largely down to their neutral ride and cushioned-yet-reactive sole, which combine to provide comfort and performance no matter the distance – as one of our tried and tested best running shoes for men, would you expect any less? Their sleek, understated design looks good too, so they can double up as streetwear if you really want to get your money’s worth. 

A “crash pad” (softer section of foam) in the heel of the midsole offers a bit more give, encouraging a smooth transition from heel to toe, and the reasonable 8mm offset or drop will suit heel and midfoot strikers alike. So, if you’re a newcomer wondering how to get into running, these sneakers could be a good place to start. 

Their cushioned ankle and tongue round off a plush upper that cradled my feet comfortably, with a molded heel locking them into place so I never fell victim to blisters. However, this feature is responsible for the shoes losing a few points too; the added padding meant my feet overheated in warm weather and increased the overall weight of the shoes. Tipping the scales at 11oz (312g) they’re on the heavier side as far as running shoes go, and I felt these extra ounces on longer runs. 

However, it does pick up points for its robust feel, with a hardened rubber outsole laid on top of the soft foam midsole to improve the shoes’ durability. And, while we’re yet to see how they stand the test of time, we can say the sole looked as good as new after more than 30km of test runs. 

So, if it’s an all-rounder you’re after, you can’t go far wrong with the Nike Air Zoom Structure 24. 

And, if you feel like you need a few more pointers before finding your sole-mate, try our feature on how to choose the right running shoes for you. 

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24: price and features

The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 can be bought for $130 in the US or £109.95 in the UK via the Nike website – marginally lower than many of its direct competitors. They can also be bought from a wide range of online stores, with many offering discounted rates.

Don’t expect vibrant colorways like the Saucony Men's Ride 15 though. There are only two available: black and white, or old royal blue, black and racer (in layman’s terms, blue, black and white). 

When it comes to features, Nike promises “cushioned responsiveness” – two terms that have previously been at odds with one another. To achieve this, it has a thick wedge of soft foam for a midsole, but under the ball of the foot there is a Nike Zoom Air unit (a cushioning system made from pressurized air and tightly stretched fibers, designed to provide a more explosive reaction). 

In contrast, a “crash pad” in the heel offers a softer feel than the rest of the foam midsole, with the intended purpose of encouraging a smooth heel-to-toe transition with each stride – something heel strikers will appreciate. (You can find out more about running foot placement in our piece on three running mistakes you’re probably making.) 

Nike developed this feature following feedback from hundreds of runners, and the brand says it means the shoe offers more support for runners with a tendency to excessively overpronate (where their ankles collapse inwards).

The mesh upper is designed for durability, as too is the hard rubber outsole that forms a protective layer between the foam midsole and the ground. This has horizontal grooves in the forefoot to improve flexion, while vertical grooves along the outer edge of the outsole are designed to add stability. 

To round off the features, a softer lining around the heel and ankle has been added to discourage socks from bunching up when you run, there is padding around the heel and tongue for comfort, and a molded heel hugs the foot securely. 

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24: design and technology

As per usual, Nike are guilty of complicating matters by assigning fancy names to their features – looking at you, Zoom Air units. But, now you know what they mean, it’s time to see if the brand’s claims hold water.

I tested these sneakers by putting them through a range of runs, racking up over 30km with a succession of interval sessions, speedwork, fast 5ks, recovery runs, easy miles and longer distance jogs. During this time, I was impressed by the cushioning and crash pad, which complemented our natural stride. 

The sole wasn’t as soft as other everyday running shoes I’ve tried, providing a fairly reactive feel well-suited to pushing the pace on middle-distance runs (around the 10k mark). 

This was partly down to the Nike Zoom Air unit under the ball of the foot, which offered a noticeable firmness when I pushed off through the forefoot – something I appreciated when aiming for a faster pace. However, with each step on hard surfaces like tarmac I could lightly feel the shape of the Zoom Air unit under my forefoot, creating a subtle but unpleasant lumpy feel. 

The upper is accommodating, with the plush padding around the ankle and tongue making them incredibly comfortable from the get-go. Nike’s “Dynamic Fit” lacing system worked well to tighten the sides of the shoe around my narrow feet with minimal bunching of the mesh around the toe box – a common problem – and the molded heel locked my foot into place to prevent any unwanted movement or rubbing during runs. 

However, we do have to question Nike’s claims that it has created an “airy upper with breathability right where you need it”. We found our feet overheated on faster runs, or when the weather grew warmer, with the ample padding proving stifling at higher temperatures.

Still, for slower-paced sessions, or in mild conditions, running in these shoes was an enjoyable and comfortable experience. 

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24: fit, feel and comfort

The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is, overall, a very comfortable shoe. The “cushioned responsiveness” of the midsole provides a firm ride for a soft, everyday shoe, striking a nice balance between cushioning and reactiveness. The durable mesh upper offers an accommodating fit for wider feet, and the Dynamic Fit lacing system works well to tighten the shoe evenly if you require a narrower fit. 

The crash pad in the heel allowed us to settle into a natural striding motion, with a smooth heel-to-toe transition, and the molded, padded heel locked our feet securely into place immediately. So, if you want to get started straight away, you can comfortably wear these running shoes from the moment they arrive without the usual break-in period.

However, in our eyes, the shoe is let down by a couple of faux pas.

Firstly, the design isn’t as spry as most of its direct competitors (such as the Saucony Ride 15 and Asics Gel Nimbus 24). Weighing in at a comparably heavy 11oz or 312g, the bulky padding around the heel and tongue adds ounces while also causing our feet to heat up on faster runs.

Our second small gripe, which may well be subjective, is the prominence of the Zoom Air unit. This clever technology has been present and popular in Nike shoes for decades, providing a firmer, more reactive section in the sole of the brand’s footwear.

Yet, in the Structure 24, we found it didn’t quite sit right. When running on roads and less forgiving terrain, we could feel the unit under our forefoot. And, while some people may enjoy the added responsiveness when compared to softer foam midsoles, we weren’t fans of the somewhat lumpy feel.

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24: support

The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is a neutral shoe with an 8mm drop from heel to toe. The cushioning feels supportive yet responsive on medium distance runs (between 5-15km) and is able to turn its hand to faster runs thanks to the firm Zoom Air unit in the forefoot – though we did find this slightly lumpy.

The foam midsole is built up around the instep of the foot to support runners with a tendency to overpronate (where your ankle collapses inwards), providing additional stability, and the outsole was brilliantly grippy on all terrains I tested it on (from tarmac to trails to wet grass). 

Nike Air Zoom Structure 24: user reviews

The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 scores favorably with customers, earning a near-perfect 4.6 out of five stars from around 50 reviews on the brand's website. 

Buyers say they like the clean, simple design, and many say they enjoy wearing the shoes for everyday activities or active jobs where they're on their feet for much of the day. 

Runners enjoyed the level of cushioning on offer and several feel the shoe offers optimal comfort. However, some say they find the sole too soft.

Verdict

The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is a versatile everyday running shoe offering out-the-box comfort and a cushioned yet responsive ride, ideal for faster mid-long distance runs. They’ll see you through easy miles and recovery runs too, though we did find they felt slightly sluggish towards the latter stages due to their heavier (11oz or 312g) design. 

The durable mesh upper is accommodating and, twinned with the hard wearing rubber outsole, gives the shoes a robust feel likely to stand the test of time. The forefoot feels lightly lumpy on harder surfaces like tarmac due to the Air Zoom unit in the midsole, but this does offer a firmer run than most everyday trainers making them better suited to runners who enjoy upping the pace every once in a while. 

Also consider

Hoka One One Rocket X

If you're after a more responsive ride, try the Hoka One One Rocket X. With their carbon plate, they provide plenty of energy with each step and feel like they're doing a lot of the work for you – perfect for chasing down your personal bests. 

Brooks Ghost 13

A solid everyday sneaker needn't cost an arm and a leg. The Brooks Ghost 13 is a great option for beginners, with our tester finding it to be an "oh-so-soft and smooth road running shoe. You can also grab a bargain if you keep an eye out online, with prices plummeting in some retailers' sales. It's by no means a fast shoe, but won't let you down as you rack up easy miles. 

Rarely can a running shoe balance comfort, style, support, responsiveness and stability, all without weighing over the odds – yet the Saucony Men’s Ride 15 manages this without breaking stride. 

Having racked up more than 30 kilometers in the neutral everyday running shoes during an intense testing period, it’s safe to say we’re big fans. It’s no surprise, then, that they can be found near the summit of our best running shoes for men roundup. 

Saucony adopts a “comfort-first” approach with this shoe, but doesn’t sacrifice performance in the process. The updated PWRRUN foam midsole is both more cushioned and lighter than the material used in previous models, and a plush new padded PWRRUN+ insole only adds to the pillowy feeling provided. 

However, the soles aren’t so soft that they sap your energy. You may want a firmer feel for speedwork and anything faster-paced under 5k, but we found the Ride 15s were reactive enough for quicker middle-distance runs, while also keeping our knees onside during easy miles and longer pieces – just what you want from an everyday running shoe. 

The breathable upper is accommodating for wider feet, though it also features clever straps that wrap around your midfoot and connect to the laces. These allowed me to tighten the sides of the shoes around my narrow feet with no bunching of material in the forefoot, ensuring a secure fit. The tongue and heel are lightly padded too, so I was able to take these for a run straight out the box without worrying about rubbing or blisters. 

So, whether you’re wondering how to get into running or you're a seasoned strider, the Saucony Men’s Ride 15 is a top option for keeping you cool and comfortable as you rack up the miles.  

Saucony Men's Ride 15: price and features

The Saucony Ride 15 has an MSRP of $140 in the US or £130 in the UK, which is slightly pricier than rival everyday running shoes like the Asics Novablast 2 and Nike Air Zoom Structure 24. It can be bought from the Saucony website, as well as a wide range of online retailers, and is available in four designs (acid lime and spice, black and white, cool mint and zest, and sapphire and vizired). 

I tested a pair of UK10s in the acid lime and spice colorway which (as you’d expect from the name) were particularly eye-catching. This might not be to the taste of more modest runners, but I quite liked the splash of color they added to my often-drab black and blue running outfits. 

The build of the shoe is, on the face of things, quite basic: a breathable mesh upper sitting atop a generous wedge of foam cushioning. But don’t mistake this for a bad thing, there’s a reason this tried and tested formula has stood the test of time. Namely, it’s comfortable and effective.

There are a few fancy features to be enjoyed too. The previously mentioned PWRRUN midsole is softer and lighter than the foam used for the Ride 14, and a padded PWRRUN+ insole adds to the cushioned feel of the shoe. The result? Unquestionable comfort, even on hard, unforgiving surfaces.

The FORMFIT upper, which features nifty straps around the midfoot, is designed to provide a personalized fit, and a more flexible forefoot allows you to transition naturally from heel to toe.

• Buy the Saucony Men's Ride 15 from the Saucony website 

Saucony Men's Ride 15: design and technology

The brands responsible for running shoes often give their latest innovations impressive-sounding names that mean little to the average consumer – Saucony’s PWRRUN midsole, PWRRUN+ insole and FORMFIT upper all being pertinent examples. 

But, now you’re familiar with the features offered by the Saucony Men’s Ride 15, it's time to look past the jargon and see what these terms mean for performance. 

The PWRRUN midsole and PWRRUN+ insole provide a generous amount of cushioning, meaning we didn’t need to worry about our knees bearing the brunt of each stride on hard surfaces like tarmac. This soft ride is great for medium and long distances, keeping our joints feeling fresh as we passed the 10k mark. 

However, the revamped foam isn’t so soft that you’ll feel like there are marshmallows strapped to the soles of your feet. Saucony claims the PWRRUN sole provides “just-right softness”, balancing comfort with reactiveness so your steps still feel energized. Having put this claim to the test, we’re happy to report they’re not wrong. 

As an everyday trainer, you wouldn’t use these for faster runs – that’s the domain of the whippet quick Saucony Kinvara 12. They’re instead intended for easy miles, recovery runs and endurance sessions over greater distances, and in these areas they truly shine.

The foam has a good amount of bounce, helping our sometimes sluggish steps retain a springy feel towards the latter stages of our runs. The 8mm drop is sufficient for encouraging a smooth heel-to-toe transition, and the midsole is flared around the forefoot and heel to encourage a neutral stride.

Finally, to improve the durability of the shoe without adding too much extra weight, thin strips of harder rubber have been added to key impact areas on the outsole. We found there were a few signs of wear and tear after around 30km of testing, with small amounts of chipping visible in the rubber, but this didn’t impact performance.

Saucony Men's Ride 15: fit, feel and comfort

At risk of sounding like a broken record: comfort really is the name of the game for the Saucony Men’s Ride 15. 

In the interests of comprehensive testing, I took them out for an interval session, 5k, easy miles and a couple of longer runs. As an everyday running shoe, not all of these runs play to their strengths. But, understanding that many people want a single pair of runners to cover all bases, I decided to see how they fared. 

As expected, they performed admirably (if not excelling) on runs that feel outside their area of expertise. Shorter, faster sessions felt cushioned and comfortable, but they didn’t have the responsive feel that comes with firmer footwear (and their provision of speed-based features like a carbon plate).

Instead, medium-long distance runs are their bread and butter; we were able to eat up the miles without sparing a second thought for niggling knees or aching soles.

However, as much as underfoot support matters, it means nothing if it isn’t complemented by a comfortable upper. Luckily, the Saucony Men’s Ride 15 is blessed with both.

The upper is made from a lightweight, breathable mesh built with "minimized layers for a sleek fit". Having taken them for a fast 5k on a searing hot summer's day, we can vouch for their breathability credentials, with our feet remaining remarkably cool throughout the run.

They’re accommodating too. At first glance, they may look like a wider shoe, but thanks to Saucony’s FORMFIT architecture (including clever straps that wrap around the midfoot) I was able to tighten the sides of the shoes around my narrow feet without causing any bunching elsewhere in the upper.

Padding on the heel and underside of the tongue meant slipping them on for the first time felt like wearing a slipper. We were able to wear them straight out of the box with no breaking in period, and our achilles remained blissfully blister-free. Yet, unlike the Nike Air Zoom Structure 24, this added padding didn’t come at the expense of added weight, with the 8.8oz (249g) shoes feeling feather light on our feet – something we were grateful for on longer runs.

Saucony Men's Ride 15: support

While it is a neutral running shoe without any glaring stability features, the Saucony Men's Ride 15 does have a few tricks up its sleeve to keep your strides on the straight and narrow. 

The midsole is flared (wider than the upper) around the heel and forefoot, providing a stable base and encouraging a neutral stride. There is also more underfoot contouring, allowing your foot to sit deeper in the shoe. So, while the stack may look high from the outside, the foam sidewalls actually rise above where your foot sits, increasing the support on offer for anyone with a tendency to excessive pronation or supination. 

These features complemented the soft yet responsive ride of the shoes and malleable mesh upper, again finding that "just right" balance between offering a natural and secure fit. 

Saucony Men's Ride 15: user reviews

The Saucony Men's Ride 15 scores 4.6 out of a possible five stars on the Saucony website, though only around 30 buyers have submitted reviews. Users describe them as "the perfect daily trainer" and "the best trainers I've ever used", praising their comfort, cushioning, stability and lightweight design. A few runners said they reserved it for longer runs due to its softer midsole, but that was the closest most came to criticism. 

Saucony Men's Ride 15: verdict

As a fitness tester, running shoes aren’t in short supply. But if I was told today that I had to whittle my collection down to a single set of sneakers, it would be the Saucony Men’s Ride 15 – I haven't used another pair since they arrived at my door. 

It’s an excellent everyday running shoe that balances stability, support and comfort while providing a responsive ride considering the generous amount of cushioning on offer. This makes it fantastically versatile, able to turn its hand to medium and long distances, recovery runs and easy miles. And, though they can’t match the speed and reactiveness of race-day running shoes, the soft yet surprisingly responsive sole will let you put your foot down for a faster pace over medium distances.  

The upper is accommodating and breathable, the padded heel and tongue make them comfortable from the off, and they don’t look half bad either. So, all-in-all, this is a stellar showing from the brand. 

Also consider

Brooks Ghost 13

If you want a versatile everyday running shoe but don't want to pay over the odds, the Brooks Ghost 13 is a top option. You can snap a pair up for under £100 (or around $125USD) from several online retailers, yet they still offer the comfortable, cushioned ride you want from a daily sneaker. 

Saucony Kinvara 12

The Ride 15 is a brilliant runner, but we wouldn't describe it as a quick shoe. If you prefer living life in the fast lane, turn instead to its speedy sister: the Saucony Kinvara 12.  This slim, lightweight sneaker caters to runners with a natural gait, providing the comfort and support you need to smash your PBs. 

Before the testing, for our On Cloudflow review, I knew this shoe was a standout name amongst running shoes. For a while, I wondered if the shoe was more of a style statement, as the Swiss-engineered brand assigns quite an individualistic design to its shoes. However, after lacing up in pair and raking up a substantial whack of mileage in these, I soon realized why there’s a hype around the Cloudflow’s.

Multiple Ironman champion, Oliver Bernhard, and three-time world duathlon champion, Casper Coppetti, founded the running shoe brand On in 2010 with a mission to fill evident gaps in the running shoe market. They wanted to build shoes that could equally provide cushioning and a soft landing, as well as being a shoe with a responsive and lightweight feel. 

I jumped into this pair of Cloudflow’s excited to see how these shoes would fare up in comparison to our usual favorites and very quickly warmed to the shoe and I’m now confident that they deserve a place in our guide to the best running shoes for women. Just to be clear, as this is one thing On isn’t so obvious about, we tested the Cloudflow 2.0. On doesn’t add numbers to their iterations as they go forward with designs but it was the second generation we took out for a spin.

The biggest update to the shoe is the helion midsole, this is the foam technology added to the bottom of the shoe. On isn’t messing around when it comes to creating a trusty neutral running shoe. We completed a challenge while testing these shoes out, which involved running everywhere instead of walking, and no matter the distance we had to cover to get from A to B, the Cloudflow didn’t let us down. These guys make you want to run fast and ride with ease for 5Ks, and 10Ks, but also offer a nice minimal marathon running shoe with their lightweight and supportive build. 

On Cloudflow: Price & features

While the price of the Cloudflows may be a little eye-watering for some at $140/£130 you are getting a high-performing training and race shoe in one. If you’re a keen runner but can’t afford to buy more than one pair of sneakers for different types of races and training, then investing in a pair of Cloudflows isn’t a bad idea, in our opinion.

I’ll delve deeper into the key features of this running shoe further down but just so you know what to expect, I’ll run over now what’s new to the updated Cloudflow. According to On, the Cloudflow was made with ‘elite athletes’ in mind and has been ‘refined with their feedback’. 

What was already a well-received responsive ride has increased in comfort and bounce with the addition of helion super foam to the sole. The ‘cloud elements’ still exist on the shoe, all 18 of them, and have been mixed in with the On’s trademark Speedboard to give you a boost as you take your strides. 

After a common complaint from runners that the laces are too long on this shoe, On responded by introducing a new eyelet configuration to support you as you ramp up the speed. This new addition also helps to avoid any distraction from flapping laces.

On Cloudflow: Design & technology

I tested out the Coudflows in the shade Aloe White and thought the sage green color mixed with the white gave these shoes a very classy look. 

I like the petite Swiss flag that features on the back, it’s a very subtle yet nice finishing touch to an impressive shoe made by the Swiss brand. The inner material of the heel and tongue features a tan color, which is unusual for a sports shoe but On certainly carves its own norms.

This leads us nicely onto the Helion foam and unique pods that form the bottom of the shoe, making it so recognizable as an On pair of sneakers. I can vouch for On and say that this Helion foam made the shoe lightweight (it weighs in at 0.4lbs/198g) to run in during daily training and can easily transition into a speedier pace for a race or faster sessions.

The foamy, hollow pods provide support for your feet while ensuring you gain response and cushioning as you run. I didn’t know if it was possible to conquer all of this in one but during testing, I never had to question this with the Cloudflow on our feet. This unique construction prompts the natural running gait and foot roll and was an element that we found makes this shoe suitable for tempo sessions and faster runs.

The trademark Speedboard technology that features on the On Cloudflows increases the cushioning on the shoe and again encourages that natural rolling gait cycle as well as accelerates energy coming from your feet. There were some complaints about the grip of the first generation Cloudflow on wetter surfaces, however, the Cloudflow 2.0’s kept us on our feet no matter the weather. The abrasion pads underneath the foot on the shoe have a new rubber-grip innovation and are meant to enhance grip and agility.

The shoe has a 6mm heel-toe drop which is slightly lower than other running shoes like the Asics Gel Nimbus 24s, which feature a 10mm drop. A higher drop is better suited to runners who land heel first, while a lower drop like on the Cloudflow is more likely to encourage a midfoot or forefoot strike. This leads to a more stable landing surface and improved muscle engagement.

The upper of the shoe is kitted out with fully ventilated mesh uppers with strategically placed overlays to assist in keeping your foot locked down without causing your foot to overheat which would be the case, had On applied a heavier material here. The tongue also features an elastic loop for storing your laces once tied up and prevents them from flapping when you are on the move.

On Cloudflow: Fit, feel and comfort

First off, the Cloudflow fit perfectly on me. They were neither too narrow nor too wide and the strategically placed overlays featuring on the upper alongside the new lace design, meant we felt both stable and comfortable once laced in. The lining inside the shoe also feels quite plush as you step inside and there is ample flexibility in the arch of the shoe too. We got our hands on these at the start of summer, right as a heatwave hit London, so it was a bonus having the Cloudflow’s to hand. The shoe consistently felt well ventilated on hot days plus, they don’t retain water so they’re safe to wear on rainy days. 

I most enjoyed wearing this shoe best for speedwork training and runs up to 10K but the feel of the helion foam and cushioning inside this trainer makes it a suitable match for half-marathons and even marathons. 

On Cloudflow: Support

The heel counter is an element often discussed around running shoes and all it refers to is the material placed at the back of the shoe that is supposed to stabilize the back of your heel. We found the heel counter was pleasantly sturdy on the Cloudflow and I had no signs or feelings of rubbing or blisters developing while training in this shoe.

Whether I took these sneakers on a speedy tempo session or out on a 10K with us, at times I forgot I had shoes on our feet. Obviously, I can’t say for sure what running on a cloud actually feels like but if I were to describe how I imagine it to feel, I’d tell someone to take the Cloudflow 2.0’s out for a ride.

Although you are getting a springy ride in the Cloudflow’s, On has baked in a solid level of firmness into the recipe of this shoe too. This is what gives the trainer a real feel for speed buts may also be why some marathon goers or heavier runners might want a shoe that's a little softer like the Brooks Glycerin 19. 

On Clouflow: User reviews

The Cloudflow running shoes get an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars via the On website, with lots of users sharing positive experiences with training and racing in this running shoe. One user said the shoe lived up to the name and the ride is indeed like a “run on clouds”.

Similarly, the majority of users agree that this is a great quality pair of shoes for running in, offering comfort and style. Various users brought up how this was the ideal shoe for returning to running in after an injury. One person said, “I needed a shoe that would give me good energy transfer for my build-back, and now I'll never run in another sneaker”.

There were, however, a few users who reported on the fast wearing of these shoes.

On Cloudflow: Verdict

The cloud-like CloudFlow 2.0 is a high-performing running shoe well worth the price tag. On has managed to master what a lot of distance running shoes miss: a shoe that combines a padded soft landing with a firm, responsive take-off and at the same time is superbly lightweight. Most of the time, running sneakers deliver on one or the other, but On has created something quite magical with the CloudFlow. 

With the new updates to the helion foam sole, it’s easy to forget you’re wearing trainers during both long and short runs in this shoe. The ventilated uppers add to the many reasons why you would want to lace yourself into these shoes for whatever run you have planned. The standout design perhaps might not be as durable as other running shoes out there with stones and dirt easily gathering in between the cloud pods but they are a great road and track shoe with heaps of potential.

Also consider

Hoka Kawana

Do you prefer shorter runs and just need something to spring through your tempo sessions and 5K’s with? The Hoka Kawana is a great option and features the signature Hoka meta-rocker design, helping you find your natural stride as you run. With a high stack height of 30mm, you do notice feeling higher off the ground in these and they are slightly heavier as a result, but you’re still getting a great response rate from the shoe as it boasts a lively CMEVA sole. 

Asics Gel Nimbus 24

A very reliable daily trainer to get your hands on is the Asics Gel Nimbus 24, it's the kind of shoe you step into and want to keep on running for miles. It features what the Japanese running shoe designers call its ‘Flytefoam Blast+’ technology. This means the midsole offers a soft and bouncy ride, while the upgraded upper has been made with engineered mesh making the shoe breathable. Plus the super stretchy, knitted tongue is both flexible and ensures the foot is securely locked down.  

If you’ve been looking for a MyProtein The Whey+ review to help you make sense of the company’s PhaseTech beadlets, we’ve got you covered. This is the first powder to come with these delayed-release beads, but are they worth the price?

Like many of the best protein powders for weight loss, it’s a low-sugar powder, delivering 0.92oz/26g of protein per serving. It’s also packed with other muscle-building ingredients to help you reach your fitness goals. 

But if you take a look at MyProtein’s PhaseTech marketing, it’s not quite clear what these beadlets are designed to do, and how that impacts your post-workout shake. We’ve put this premium powder to the test to help you decide if it’s right for you.

MyProtein The Whey+ review: price

The MyProtein The Whey+ is only available in the UK and in a single size (37oz/1.05kg) and costs £69.99 for the Strawberry Milkshake and Vanilla Ice Cream flavors. The Chocolate Brownie edition costs slightly less, retailing at £66.99. 

MyProtein The Whey+review : nutrition

The nutritional values per serving differ depending on which of the three flavors you opt for. We tested the Strawberry Milkshake powder, so we've listed the nutritional information for this flavor per 1.18oz/33.5g serving below: 

• Protein: 0.92oz/26g
• Carbohydrate: 0.06oz/1.7g
• Fat: 0.025oz/0.4g

MyProtein The Whey+ review: texture

In our tests, we mixed MyProtein The Whey+ powder with water and oat milk, and shook the mixture for 30 seconds. It was a little different from the other protein powders we tested (like the Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate) in that although it mostly mixed well within about 10-15 seconds, even after 30 seconds the beads containing the timed release elements didn’t mix in at all, and were left on the sides of the container.

After drinking, most of them were still left behind. This is by design—MyProtein mentions this on its website—but we found that you could get around this by mixing it into a smoothie in a blender or by combining the protein powder with overnight oats. Apart from the beads, the consistency was smooth (if a touch on the thin side) with no graininess or chalkiness.

MyProtein The Whey+ review: taste

We were a little disappointed with the flavor of this protein powder when mixed with water. We tested the Strawberry Milkshake flavor and had hoped for, well, a strawberry milkshake. The taste was there, but it was a little thin and synthetic with water. 

We found it extremely sweet and rather artificial in taste, and discerned a slightly sour aftertaste. It was much improved when we tested it with oat milk, although it was still overly sweet. More successful were the overnight oats that we made. 

Although the beads didn’t dissolve they didn’t sink to the bottom either, so we were able to eat them all and didn’t lose out on their benefits. The synthetic flavor was balanced out by the oats and milk. We also tried mixing it into a shake in a blender, which meant all the beadlets got mixed in successfully.

MyProtein The Whey+ review: user reviews

Most reviewers appear to have bought MyProtein The Whey+ because they were intrigued by the delayed release beadlets, only to find that they missed out on the crucial beadlets because they didn’t dissolve into the shake.

As one says, “The beadlets don’t dissolve or mix so it’s like a protein shake with hundreds and thousands mixed in.” However, consumers were quite enthusiastic about the flavors. Many conclude that it’s better mixed with milk than with water, and one or two complain that it’s overly sweet. 

MyProtein The Whey+ review: verdict

MyProtein has a reputation for high-quality, mid-range protein products. The Whey+ is one of its first ventures into premium powders, with delayed release beads and plenty of muscle-building nutrients. 

It’s an expensive option, with premium packaging to match, but it’s not going to be to everyone’s tastes. We were disappointed that the beads don’t mix into the smoothie, but the company says this is part of the design. 

But for this price, we were expecting the taste to be exceptional, and it wasn’t. It wasn’t bad, but when mixed with water, the Strawberry Milkshake tastes artificial and a bit sweet. It’s better with oat milk, but still not great. 

It’s hard to verify MyProtein’s claims about the delayed-release beads and whether they really do help with your post-exercise recovery and muscle growth. However, the MyProtein The Whey+ is an interesting option for nutrition enthusiasts.

Also consider

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate

If you find the price of MyProtein TheWhey+ hard to stomach, and just want a no-frills whey powder at a more modest price, try Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate instead, which gives a good level of protein without a massive list of ingredients. 

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein

Perhaps the quality of the whey in MyProtein The Whey+  is appealing but you find the three flavors too limiting. If that’s the case, we’d suggest you give Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein a try. It’s unflavored, so you can add flavor drops or blend it into smoothies or other foods to get all the benefits.  

We were excited to start our Peloton Tread review; the company's exercise bike changed at-home workouts, and we wondered if this smart treadmill, with its sleek design and packed with features, would do the same. 

While you can use any of the best treadmills to hit your weight loss goals or improve your cardio fitness, the Peloton Tread gives you access to the company's vast library of on-demand and live workout classes through its immersive 23.8-inch display. 

Whether you want to learn how to start running or are a seasoned pro who wants to improve your speed or pace, the Peloton Tread is a motivational running machine it can inspire you to push yourself to train harder and reach those personal bests.

In this Peloton Tread review, we will tell you all about the design and build quality, as well as features and performance, to help you make an informed decision. If your budget is tight, check out our review of the Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill, too. 

Peloton Tread review: price and features

The Peloton Tread retails for $2,495/ £2,545, plus you'll need to spend $44/£39 a month to to take out a Peloton Membership to access the Peloton app on the treadmill and your smartphone to stream live and on-demand classes.

Peloton’s unique selling point, apart from its stylish design, is its world-class instructors and motivating, high-energy classes. There are no pre-programmed workouts on the Tread, but a Peloton subscription opens up access to all the virtual content, with new classes added daily. 

We love that you can filter classes by music, distance, time, and instructor, or just choose the manual mode (Just Run). You can follow guided running classes as well as strength training, HIIT, stretching, and yoga. Don’t like group-style classes? Opt for a walk, run or hike instead.

Without a doubt, it’s the vast range of classes that makes the Peloton Tread so appealing. Of course, you can use it to improve your speed and pace, but subscribing to the online content means you will always have something new to try. The enthusiastic instructors are a great motivator, too.  

As this is a high-tech treadmill, it comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 for you to connect best workout earbuds if you want to keep the noise down so you don't disturb others in your house. And the Peloton Tread can reach speeds of up to 12.5mph. 

It has an incline range of 0-12.5% but no decline, which is disappointing considering the price of the machine. Core metrics tracked include speed, distance, pace, output, total elevation, and calories. The Tread is close to the floor and only has an eight-inch step-up height, making it a good choice for anyone with limited mobility.

Peloton Tread review: set up and usability

Weighing 290lbs/132kg, the Peloton Tread is quite heavy to move around so we recommend making room for it near a power point before it arrives. Peloton include expert assembly in the price so you won’t need to do this yourself.

Once in position, you’ll see the Peloton Tread is a compact and stylish running machine with a smart, ergonomic design. It has a carbon steel frame, which is sturdy and durable, and the controls are really easy to use and intuitive, meaning you won’t get distracted from your run because you are trying to speed up or change the incline/decline.

Dials for speed and incline/decline are on the right and left handrail respectively; simply move them forward or back to increase or decrease them. This makes it much easier to ramp up your workout without getting distracted about where the right buttons are.

Safety features on the Tread are abundant; as well as the standard emergency stop and safety key, there is stop-sensor tech in the belt. The Tread has a lock, a four-digit passcode to unlock the machine, which also locks the machine after 10 seconds of inactivity - a reassuring feature to parents and pet owners alike.

We liked that before every class begins, the instructors also give a safety talk, prompting you to make sure your sneakers are double knotted and there are no hazards, children, or pets nearby.

Peloton Tread review: design

The Peloton Tread sticks with the company's signature black and red color scheme and premium design. The machine takes up a footprint of 5.67x2.75ft/68x33 inches. It’s very well constructed and has a good spring to it.

Unlike many other treadmills, the Tread doesn't have a front base, which we found meant you can run the whole belt. The red centerline in the belt is a great alignment feature and helps you to keep your stride in a straight line.

The deck doesn't have shock absorbers or cushioning (for that, you'd need to invest in the upgraded model, the Peloton Tread+), so the running experience feels similar to pounding the sidewalk. There are two bottle holders and a tray to put your phone or other possessions in. Unfortunately, it’s not big enough for a tablet, but I suppose Peloton thought that would be redundant with the integrated 23.8-inch touchscreen on the treadmill.

It’s the responsive touchscreen and crisp graphics that are such a pull to the Peloton Tread. We love that most of the functionality is hidden within the display, so there are very few physical buttons on the dash apart from the Emergency Stop and the safety key. Even the speed and incline/decline dials are built into the handrails rather than the console, making for a simple and fuss-free design.

The smudge-resistant display has front-facing stereo speakers and an 8-megapixel camera with a privacy cover, so you can video chat with friends during your workouts. You can charge your phone with the USB-C port at the back, but sadly this treadmill doesn’t have a fan, which feels like a huge oversight. It doesn’t fold up either, but it’s compact so doesn’t take up too much space.

Peloton Tread review: performance

The Peloton Tread is slightly smaller than similarly priced treadmills, like the NordicTrack X22i, with a 4.92x1.67ft/59x20-inch belt. While it has an incline range, it’s lacking a decline option, so if you’re a fan of running downhill, this may be an issue.

It’s super easy to start and stop the machine and the emergency stop gives you a few seconds of slowing down before stopping altogether. If you’re a gym class enthusiast, you will really enjoy the live and on-demand workouts Peloton has on offer, while the leaderboard is appealing to those with a competitive streak.

How noisy is the Peloton Tread, you ask? In truth, it’s pretty quiet when walking thanks to its 3-horsepower DC motor. Aside from the noise from the instructor talking or music playing, you can only really hear the sound of your own feet. 

I tested the decibel (dB) levels on the Peloton Tread in the following workouts:

• 1-mile walk: 65 decibels (dB)—about the same as a conversation in an office 
• 2.5-mile jog at a leisurely pace, with some inclines and different speeds: 78 dB—the same as running a washing machine. 
• 2.5-mile run at max speed: 88 dB—akin to a food processor. 
• 20-minute advanced HIIT run workout: 78 dB—the same as a vacuum cleaner. 

Peloton Tread review: user reviews

The Peloton Tread gets 4.5 out of 5 stars on the Peloton website from 266 reviews. Many owners are enthusiastic about it, with one saying: "I can’t put into words how much I love the Tread and Peloton. Even my husband is now hooked. It’s the best investment we have ever made."

Another positive review on the Peloton website said that the classes were great and that "it motivated more than a normal treadmill and pushes me a little harder as I never used to do hills before."

Negative reviews cited issues with the machine not working properly, and one reviewer complained that the Peloton class instructors talked too much which made it difficult to focus on the music to guide their cadence.

Peloton Tread review: verdict

The Peloton Tread extends the company's range of connected exercise machines, with a premium design and motivating live and on-demand classes. The large touchscreen makes it easy to focus on your workout, and the Bluetooth connection means you connect headphones to exercise in relative silence, as the machine isn't overly loud either. 

As with Peloton's other products, like the Peloton Bike and the Peloton Bike+, this treadmill isn't a budget-friendly option. The machine itself is a large investment, but you also have to factor in an ongoing monthly cost to access the classes and Pelton community. 

However, we found that the Peloton Tread was an effective way to exercise at home and improve your cardiovascular fitness. The workouts are fun, the instructors are personable, and we liked that there's such a range of options on offer, so you can find something that matches your mood. 

Also consider

Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill

If the Peloton Tread is out of your budget, the Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill is a great entry-level machine that will set you back a more modest $369.99/£329.99. This small but mighty treadmill has a quiet 2.5-horsepower motor, speeds of up to 7.5mph, and a compact, foldable design.

NordicTrack X22i

If you like the sound of live and on-demand classes bundled with a high-quality treadmill, but you don't want to go all-in on the Peloton ecosystem, consider the NordicTrack X22i. This powerful machine has a 4-horsepower motor, decline settings, and workouts through the iFit virtual platform. 

This NuraLoop review will cover everything you need to know about these comfortable, long-lasting, customizable headphones. The in-ear buds are the successor to the over-ear Nuraphone headphones, with similar tech inside but shrunk down to earbud size.

Like many of the best workout earbuds, the NuraLoop have a secure design that keeps them from falling out of place during exercise. In this case, the fit comes from two flexible over-ear arms that are easily adjustable to suit the shape of your ears.

But the real selling point of these headphones is Nura's personalized sound explicitly adapted to your hearing. We've tested many sets of headphones, including audiophile-friendly options like the Edifier Neobuds Pro, but found that the NuraLoop sounded even better.

As many people opt for a set of cable-free true wireless earbuds for their workouts, the neck cable design of the NuraLoop won't be to everyone's taste, especially as it can sometimes feel a bit restrictive. But for music fans, these might be one of the best investments you can make. 

NuraLoop review: price and features

The NuraLoop headphones retail for $179/£149, putting them in line with other workout earbuds like the Jabra Elite 7 Active and Bose Sport Earbuds. But they are still significantly less than popular options like the Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4, which cost around $250/£200.

This makes them a solid set of mid-range headphones, but they punch above their weight on paper. The NuraLoop are available in either Black or Limited Edition White and weigh 0.88oz/25g. This includes both earphones and the cable, so it's not heavy, but it is more than true wireless earbuds, which typically weigh between 0.18-0.35oz/5-10g per bud.

Although they have a cable, this is to keep the headphones in place, not to connect the earbuds to your device. Instead, they are equipped with Bluetooth so that you can connect them to any compatible device, including your smartphone or laptop. There are built-in microphones, too, allowing you to take calls through the NuraLoop.

We thought these features performed well during testing, but they're reasonably standard across most sets of headphones. Howver, where the NuraLoop really stands out is sound quality.

The earbuds come with adjustable noise cancellation, impressive personalized sound, and an Immersive mode that adjusts your music to make it feel like you're at a live performance. It elevates the lower-end so that you hear the rumbling of the bass, even if you don’t feel it in your chest like you do at a show. 

NuraLoop review: sound quality

The NuraLoop standout from the competition thanks to the earbuds' personalized sound. Once you've unpacked the headphones and connected them to the Nura smartphone app (available for Android and iPhone), you can follow the on-screen steps to customize the audio to your ears and hearing.

The process uses internal microphones to listen to tones played into your ears at different frequencies and measures the response to design your personalized profile. This allows Nura to change the bass, mid-tone, and treble to specifically suit your hearing. We found this made the music far more vibrant than with other workout buds like the Apple AirPods Pro or Bose Sport Earbuds.

We trialed this customized sound with our regular testing tracks, Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and Deadmau5's Faxing Berlin. The instrumentation was clearer in both songs, and it helped elevate the bass without overpowering the rest of the track. And, impressively, it helped us pick out details we'd never noticed before, even though we've listened to these songs hundreds of times.

There are times you don't want to be disturbed while you're listening to the best workout music, which is why the NuraLoop comes with active noise cancellation (ANC). Even when we were outside on busy city-center streets, the ANC blocked it all out, which is helpful if you’re exercising at the gym, as you can block out the center’s audio system or other people’s music. You can adjust the ANC level, too, so you can still hear your surroundings when out on a run. 

NuraLoop review: design and comfort

There's a subtle nod in the NuraLoop design to headphones of the mid-2000s before wireless headphones were commonplace. Although you don't have to physically plug them into your phone thanks to the Bluetooth connection, there is an auxiliary cable you can switch to when you want to preserve battery or connect to older hardware, like a record player or smartphone with a headphone jack.

The adjustable over-ear design allows you to change the fit via two flexible arms that loop over the top of your lobes, so the cable then leads down to the back of the neck. When you first put the headphones on, the fit will be too loose, but you can bend them into shape around your ears for a comfortable fit that doesn't move around during your exercise.

While the tech industry has shifted chiefly to cable-free true wireless earbuds, it's easy to misplace one earbud when they aren't connected to a cable. If this has played on your mind before, then you'll appreciate the neck cable that keeps these earbuds joined together. The only downside is that you always have to use both buds simultaneously since you don't have the option of leaving one ear free.

The outer section of each earbud has a circular, touch-sensitive button called the TouchDial. You can tap each earbud's button to pause or play your music, change the volume, and adjust the noise cancellation, depending on how you've set them in the Nura app. The NuraLoop are also IPX3-rated for water resistance, so they'll handle a sweaty workout, but not a run in the rain.For that, you’d need a set that is IPX7-rated or higher. 

NuraLoop review: battery life

The NuraLoop is designed to get 16 hours of use between charges. We found that this was about right but can vary depending on whether you use the noise cancellation and the level you set the volume. This is impressive, as wireless headphones like the Jaybird Vista achieve 16 hours with the help of a charging case, whereas the NuraLoop hit that number without one.

As they don't come with a case, you will have to plug them in more frequently. Helpfully, it's not too difficult a task, as there's a connector in the center of the cable for you to attach the magnetic charger. While this is a great design feature, we found that the connector did tend to get caught on things from time to time, especially when turning your head.

NuraLoop review: user reviews

The NuraLoop currently score 3.7 out of five on Amazon from 471 ratings. Most reviewers felt that the personalized hearing profile was the standout feature, with one user writing that "every sound is clear and clean with a striking presence. Separation of instruments and sound is excellent, and [the] soundstage is broad."

Similarly, the NuraLoop owners enjoyed that the setup was pretty simple and that the app helped guide you through the process. But it was the fit that made them a top set of workout earbuds. One user noted, "I've tried a few earbuds, including Airpods, and nothing fits my ears well. The Nuraloops fit well, are comfortable, and stay in."

Despite all the positive feedback, the fit of the headphones proved to be controversial. Some wearers found it easy to securely fit the NuraLoop, while others couldn't adjust the ear hooks, leading to the app's 'poor fit' warnings. This affects the personalized profile, too, leading to muffled sound and a frustrating experience.

NuraLoop review: verdict

The NuraLoop are some of the best-sounding workout earbuds you can buy today. The company's personalized hearing profile really helps make the music stand out, helping you pick out details in songs you've heard dozens of times before.

Immersing yourself in your music can be a great way to stay motivated during workouts, particularly with NuraLoop's effective noise cancellation, blocking out unwanted sounds. When you're exercising outdoors, you can adjust the cancellation to let back in some of your surroundings.

At $179/£149, they are comfortably a mid-range set of headphones, but with audio reproduction that rivals, and possibly even exceed, that of better-known (and more expensive) alternatives like the Apple AirPods Pro.

The neck cable design can be a little distracting, especially if you're moving your head from side to side. Still, if you're enthusiastic about audio quality, the NuraLoop are some of the best-sounding headphones around.

NuraLoop review: also consider

Jabra Elite 7 Active

The Jabra Elite 7 Active also offer high-quality noise cancellation with the company's impressive HearThrough feature that helps you stay aware of your surroundings while you're out exercising. The earbuds come with Jabra's ShakeGrip design, and we found that it was impressive and effective at keeping the headphones firmly in place, even during vigorous workouts. 

Skullcandy Push Active

If you like the sound of the over-ear hooks to keep the headphones in place, the Skullcandy Push Active have a similar over-ear design but without the neck cable. The true wireless earbuds (including the charging case) achieve 44 hours of playback and come with Skull-iQ voice commands for hands-free controls.  

If you've been looking for a Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate review to help you decide if it's the right choice for you, we can help. The main aim of the Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate is that it contains just six essential ingredients and has no whey concentrate—just whey protein isolate, which is considered to be easier to digest.

Because of the emphasis on fewer ingredients, its a stronger contender for the best protein powder for weight loss. It is flavored with stevia, a plant-based sweetener that you’ll either love or loathe, depending on your individual taste, so be sure you’re on board with stevia before you buy.

The flavor and texture aren’t for everybody, but most people agree that it’s decent value for money and that it is easily digestible—good news for anyone who finds whey concentrate hard on their stomach. As an added bonus, the company is taking steps to make its packaging more sustainable. 

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: price

As with other protein powders, the price varies depending on the size and flavor you buy. The larger bags have a higher upfront cost and are more difficult to store, but work out less per serving. 

The Chocolate edition we tested retails for £34.99 for a 500g bag, working out at £2.17 per 30g serving. The price per serving reduces for the 1kg and 2.5kg bags, and the largest 5kg bag retails £244.99, at a cost of £1.48 per serving. 

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: nutrition

The nutritional values per serving differ depending on which of the three flavors you opt for; Chocolate, Strawberry, or Vanilla. We tested the Chocolate powder, so we've listed the nutritional information for this flavor per 30g serving below: 

• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrate: 1.5g
• Fat: 0.3g 

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: texture

When we tested the Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate, we mixed it with both water and separately with oat milk, shaking it for 30 seconds (as we do with all  protein powders we test).

It didn’t mix quite as quickly as some of the others, taking the whole 30 seconds to be fully blended. We found the texture slightly thin when mixed with water, and although smooth, it was a little chalky in consistency.

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: taste

You’re probably not going to like Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate if you don’t like stevia. Some folks are simply more sensitive to it than others, and we found the stevia so overpowering, both at the time of testing and afterwards as an aftertaste, that it obscured the chocolate flavor when mixed with water.

It improved when we tested it mixed with oat milk, but we still found it excessively sweet. We tried adding some extra cocoa powder, and found that it helped to neutralise the sweetness and make it more chocolatey, but didn’t address the aftertaste.

This protein powder was transformed, however, when we made it into protein energy balls, combining it with oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, chia seeds and chocolate chips. The stevia flavor vanished and we were left with a great pre- or post-workout snack with just enough of a protein kick.

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: user reviews

The six ingredients of the Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate earn it plenty of favorable reviews, with reviewers enthusiastic about the lack of artificial flavorings or sweeteners—one goes so far as to describe it as “mega mega sexy”. They report that it doesn’t cause bloating unlike some whey concentrate powders.

The main criticisms refer to the flavor and texture.  “Very, very sweet and almost impossible to drink with water”, complains one, and others describe the taste as “synthetic.”

Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate: verdict

The Bulk Natural Pure Whey Isolate divides opinion when it comes to the taste. Although many find it perfectly palatable, we felt that anyone who doesn’t like stevia (both its taste and aftertaste) probably won’t enjoy it.

However, it contains pure whey isolate, rather than whey concentrate which can cause bloating, so would be a good choice for those with a sensitive digestion, and it has a limited number of ingredients (this also means it’s only available in chocolate and strawberry so far).

Also consider

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein

If you are looking for a high quality whey protein powder but want to regulate your own sweetness or use it in savory dishes, consider the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey. It’s made from a mix of whey protein isolate, hydrolyzed whey protein isolate, and whey concentrate and has a neutral flavor that works well in cooking or with flavor drops. 

The Protein Works Vegan Protein Extreme

If you’re all about the chocolate but prefer a plant-based protein powder or a chocolate protein powder that doesn’t contain stevia, go for The Protein Works Vegan Protein Extreme. The consistency is less appealing but it has no stevia and a decent chocolate flavor. 

The HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket is one of the most premium products on the market, coming in at $599/£539. But whilst other models come with a complimentary carry case, the HigherDOSE does not, making it the least portable. In addition to the lack of portability, this sauna blanket does not achieve the high temperature that other brands advertise. The standard for most brands seems to be 176°F (80°C), with the HigherDOSE topping out at 158°F (70°C).

Having said this, as a brand HigherDOSE has the broadest range of infrared products and extras available, and includes several extra layers of materials that competitor blankets don’t have. The brand also promises deep relaxation, glowing skin and improved circulation among potential benefits. 

I put the HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket to the test to see if the product lived up to the potential sauna blanket benefits touted by the likes of Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow.

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: price & features

For one of the more expensive options on the market, at $599/£539, the HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket is very middle-of-the-road with most of its features. It weighs 19lb (8kg), which is not the heaviest nor the lightest available. In comparison to other brands, I didn’t really understand why the price was so high. You don’t get any complementary products with your purchase (for example, a handy carry case), and it isn’t any larger or more lightweight than other brands.

As with other brands, the HigherDOSE blanket runs at 450-500 watts, making it low-cost to run. Once you’ve invested in the initial purchase of the sauna blanket, it definitely becomes a more cost effective option than paying to go to a traditional sauna or trying to run a larger infrared sauna at home. Because it is only heating your body and not an entire room, you can enjoy the sauna blanket without worrying too much about the impact it will have on your energy bills.  

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: Material and design

HigherDOSE is standard when it comes to size, at 71 x 71 inches (180 x 180 cm) unfolded. It has a maximum interior circumference of approximately 65 in (165 cm). Whilst HigherDOSE claims there is no upper weight limit, this small circumference would definitely limit users in larger bodies, who may not be able to use the blanket as comfortably. 

I liked that the HigherDOSE had a zip instead of Velcro, but was aware that this removed any degree of adjustability which some other brands have by using wide Velcro strips for closure. Additionally, I found it very difficult to connect the power supply to the blanket itself, as the attachment was very stiff. In fact, this turned into a three-person job during later use. While not everyone may find this an issue, for someone who wants to use the blanket to ease symptoms of arthritis, this might be a sticking point. 

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: Features

HigherDOSE recommend you wear loose, natural fiber clothing, as is standard for these products, however they also sell a towel insert which can be used to separate yourself from the blanket if you’d rather sweat naked. While this is a great optional extra, the insert costs $89/£79, which seems a little steep on top of the price of the sauna blanket itself. 

The HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket had the most in-depth instruction and safety manual of all the brands we tested. As well as basic ‘how-to’ information, they offer some suggestions on how to elevate your experience, such as taking a ‘hot shot’ of fresh lemon juice with ginger, or dry brushing your body to activate your lymphatic system before your session. 

Compared to its competitors, the HigherDOSE infrared sauna blanket seems to have the most relevant experience with the far infrared technology these blankets use to make you sweat. As well as the infrared sauna blanket, they also make infrared PEMF matts, red light face masks and even full spectrum infrared saunas. They do seem to be appealing to people who already love infrared saunas, which is perhaps reflected in the higher price. They also offer the widest range of accessories, with the aforementioned towel insert, matt toppers, cleaning spray and a copper body brush. They also offer a carry bag for the sauna blanket, but unlike competitors, who offer their carry bags as complimentary extras, this backpack-style case will set you back $99/£89. 

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: temperature

I was put off by the fact you can’t select a temperature, and instead are offered levels of ‘toastiness’ to which the blanket will heat. While this encourages you to listen to your body and perhaps select the level that you feel most comfortable at, it would be good to be able to see exactly what temperature brings on a sweat.

After checking what level came closest to 158°F (70°C) to keep my testing consistent between brands, I settled in for 45 minutes. The instructions advise that you start at a level 4 or 5 and only go up to level 8 if absolutely necessary. I ended up starting on a level 8 as this was 158°F (70°C), the temperature I used when testing other brands. This seems low in comparison to other brands, which tend to go up to 176°F (80°C). It also seems a little low to start with a level 4 or 5 out of 8, when other brands recommend you begin at the temperature this blanket tops out at. 

Another reason this sauna blanket seems to be on the pricier end of the sauna blanket spectrum is the several layers of materials within the cover. As well as the far infrared heating zone, the blanket has an amethyst and tourmaline layer, a clay layer, a charcoal layer and a magnetic layer, all claiming to add wellness benefits to your experience. To look at, it is very much like most of the other sauna blankets on the market, but perhaps these hidden layers have hidden benefits. These cannot be backed up with evidence, however.

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: Experience

I found the HigherDOSE blanket to be somewhere in the middle of all those I tested. It wasn't too difficult to get in and out of and I liked that I could zip myself fully into it, whereas the others had gaps at the top. It felt like I wasn't losing heat around my shoulders and could immerse myself in the experience. 

I was able to settle into the sweating session once the blanket had heated up, and if I needed to get out quickly, the zip gave me this option. The heat was really lovely and penetrative, and I felt very relaxed afterwards. As infrared saunas provide quite a dry heat, despite being sweaty I didn't feel sticky or swampy inside it.

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: User reviews

HigherDOSE users seem to absolutely love the sauna blanket, with over 2000 positive reviews. Users claim that the blanket has the power to relax them, and help with joint pain and inflammation, with some people using it every day. The only complaint users had was the lack of carry case, which makes it hard to take it with you on holiday or business trips.

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: Verdict

As the most expensive option, I expected the HigherDOSE to offer something that its competitors didn’t. While the experience was not obviously different from the others, I did like the instructional materials that came with the blanket as they came with extra recommendations such as using the blanket after exercise or finishing the session with a cold shower. 

HigherDOSE sauna blanket review: Also consider

Smomar

For a slightly more cost-effective option, you can check out the Smomar infrared sauna blanket. This comes in a variety of colors, with a free carry case and is the most lightweight of the brands we tested.

MiHigh

Our MiHigh sauna blanket review found this product simple to set up and easy to use. Coming with nine different temperature settings, a controller, and a carry bag, it seems to be a solid entry-level introduction to the world of heat.

When we set out on our Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review, we were excited about Sennheiser's first set of sports-focused earbuds. The company is well-known for its high-quality sound, and we wondered if this would bring a new dimension to our training.

Like many of the best workout earbuds, the Sport True Wireless have no wires or cables to get in the way, come in a neat charging case, and have small ear hooks to keep them lodged in place while you exercise.

These are all great features, but when you can already choose between similar spec'd models like the Jabra Elite 7 Active, Skullcandy Push Active, or even the Apple AirPods Pro, we were curious to know how the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless would stand out.

Aside from the audio quality, the most unique offering is the two sets of customizable ear tips for different audio experiences; one set for running and one for general workouts. Changing tips isn't a fun chore, but they did have some impact with software support.

Whether you're after immersive audio for your training or want a multi-purpose set of earbuds that suit long runs as much as sweaty home workouts, our Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review will take you through everything you need to know.

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: price and features

The Sennheiser Sport True Wireless are available for $129.95/£119.99. For your money, you get a set of earbuds housed in a charging case that can extend the nine-hour battery life up to an impressive 27 hours with IP54 protection against water splashes and dust.

The dust protection here is interesting as it's pretty rare to find this on a set of workout earbuds. The Jabra Elite 7 also offer this, but with a higher degree of water resistance, as the Sport True Wireless' splash-proof rating means they aren't great for rain-soaked outdoor exercise.

This feels like an oversight, especially since the earbuds come with an Aware mode for outdoor exercise. Interestingly, the Aware mode also claims to filter out the sounds of your steps and breathing while running.

Despite this, the earbuds don't offer any form of noise cancellation, so switching to the Focus mode tips, which are designed to physically block external sounds, is the closest you get to a noise-free experience.

Sennheiser has a well-earned reputation for high-quality sound, so it's not surprising that the Sport True Wireless are also packed with tech to deliver crisp audio. And with the Sennheiser Smart Control smartphone app, you can adjust the bass and treble to suit your ears.

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: sound quality

Over the course of a month, we put the Sport True Wireless through our earbud testing process. While we also looked at the physical design, one of the most important considerations is how they sound.

To help with comparisons between sets, we use reference tracks for testing; Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and Deadmau5's Faxing Berlin. The Queen track is dynamically varied, alternating between bass and treble sections, with quiet and loud parts.

Faxing Berlin is a high-tempo track that often makes the best workout music playlists thanks to the bass-heavy song's high beats per minute (BPM). But we found that the default setup flattened the bass, and adjusting the bass on the app’s equalizer made the audio muddy.

Bohemian Rhapsody fared better, mainly because there's less focus on bass. The famous layered group vocals throughout the song mostly use higher treble frequencies, and the Sport True Wireless handled these well.

We also used the earbuds for workouts and leisure, listening to different music and podcasts. Overall, the experience was good, but alternatives like the Jabra Elite 7 Active or Sony WF-1000XM4 offer a more immersive experience. 

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: design and comfort

The Sport True Wireless come with two sets of tips with three sizes in each. They look quite similar, but they are designed for different activities. The Focus set forms a tight seal to help block external noises passively (without power from the earbuds).

Meanwhile, the Aware set is designed to allow some background noises in. If you activate the Aware mode in the app, the earbuds help you hear your surroundings so that you can keep track of nearby runners or traffic but remove personal sounds like breathing or footsteps.

This is a fairly unique way to approach these audio experiences, as most earbuds offer noise cancellation and an awareness or transparency mode you can toggle with a button on the earbuds. But there's a reason almost every other brand opts for software rather than tips.

It's quite fiddly to change tips at the best of times, but this is usually just a one-time task while you find the right fit. Having to do it every time you want to switch between the gym or at-home workouts to running became a bit of a chore.

You could overlook this if using them was dramatically different, but we weren't convinced. The closed-design Focus set did a reasonable job of blocking sound, but the Aware set let in too much noise and didn't drown out breathing and steps, just turned the volume down a little.

Fortunately, the fit is actually reasonably comfortable and secure as the bud's wing sits just inside the curve of your ear. They come with three sizes of wings that you can choose between and didn't fall out whether we were doing a HIIT workout, going for a run, or lifting weights.

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: battery life

Sennheiser claims that you should get nine hours of battery from the earbuds themselves, which you can top up to 27 hours with the charging case. The case, which looks a bit like a large pillbox, charges via USB-C, which is the same cable many smartphones use.

It's hard to fit the case in your pocket because of the slightly awkward shape, but there's a keyring loop on the left edge you can thread a strap through to attach the case to your bag or workout clothes.

However, it does its job well and keeps the earbuds topped up for at least 20 hours of use. Depending on how often you have them powered on, the volume, and whether you take calls, Sennheiser's estimates are about right.

Since the portion of the bud that protrudes out of your ear is quite large, it also sticks out of the case, making it easy to get the buds out. They power on as soon as you remove them, and we found that they lasted between six and eight hours with regular usage.

This means the battery of the Sport True Wireless just about outperforms the Apple AirPods Pro and the Bose Sport Earbuds, an alternative pair of true wireless workout earbuds from another brand known for high-quality audio. 

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: user reviews

At the time of our review, the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless had only been publicly available for a few weeks, so there aren't many user reviews online right now. However, early reviews praise the headphones for what they deliver at a reasonable price.

As one reviewer noted, "sound quality is good, but if you really focus on it, you [realize you're missing] a few things." This didn't dampen enthusiasm for the comfortable design and secure fit, as they "don't fall out even after shaking, running and jumping for a long time."

We'll be adding more user reviews here when they are available.

Sennheiser Sport True Wireless review: verdict

The Sennheiser Sport True Wireless are an interesting first step into everyday workout earbuds from the German audio equipment manufacturer. At around $129.95/£119.99, they're roughly half the cost of the Apple AirPods Pro.

Impressively, the battery life also surpasses the AirPods Pro, often coming close to the 27 hours promised by the company. The case is a little chunky compared to other pairs, especially the Jabra Elite 7 Active, and can be a challenge to fit into your pockets or bag.

The Aware and Focus tips are an interesting experiment but ultimately fall short compared to the software alternatives most other brands use for noise cancellation and awareness modes. And while they sound good, we felt they don't quite live up to Sennheiser's usual high standards.

Though we wouldn't call these downsides exactly—more like areas for improvement. Overall, the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless are a great almost-premium set of workout earbuds at a mid-range price, making them an excellent choice for casual exercise.

Also consider

1. Jabra Elite 7 Active

The Jabra Elite 7 Active are designed to withstand even the most intense and sweaty routines. They come with an IP57 rating for water and dust resistance, stay firmly in place thanks to Jabra's ShakeGrip materials, and have an awareness mode so you can hear your surroundings when training outdoors. 

2. Skullcandy Push Active

If you find in-ear designs don't always stay in place, the Skullcandy Push Active come with ear hooks to stop them from falling out. The large design is surprisingly light, and you can control the long-lasting earbuds with voice commands. The charging case is bulky, but it provides 24 hours of battery, making these a great alternative to the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless buds. 

The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro V6 shoes are sturdy beasts. They feature a hardened toe cage, a Vibram outsole and a robust upper infused with TPU threads. Not only is this a shoe that’s built to last, it’s one that’s designed to keep you upright with its supportive features. 

We tested them out over a number of terrains, running with them on flat surfaces and using them to hike up uneven, rugged terrain. While they certainly hold their own as a trail running shoe, we actually think these are some of the best walking shoes you can get. 

Our only real reservation with these shoes is the aesthetic; they don’t look appealing. This isn’t a shoe that you can get away with wearing casually during the day. But if you’re looking for shoes that will protect you while you tackle off-map trails, then these are a solid choice.

Design and technology

This sneaker comes with New Balance’s famous ‘fresh foam’ midsole, which is widely adored by runners. It’s lightweight and springy, so it feels like it’s propelling you onwards – and it really works in rugged walking shoes, as it effectively cushions your feet from uneven terrain. When we hiked over a riot of gnarly tree roots and rocks, we couldn’t feel them underfoot.

The shoes also feature fancy Vibram outsoles, which offer a deep tread for extra grip. What’s particularly clever about this outsole is that the raised treads feature little slopes between them, which makes it more difficult for pebbles to get stuck. When we were tackling gravelly terrain, we didn’t have any hitchhikers lodging in there.

The upper is made of a tough synthetic material, which is fairly breathable yet durable. It’s interwoven with TPU threads, which is a type of plastic; this isn’t a particularly environmentally-friendly shoe, unlike the Allbirds Tree Runners. But given how durable they are, you won’t have to replace them frequently.

There’s also ‘Toe Protect’ technology printed into the shoe, which is basically a thin layer of hardened rubber running around the edge of the front toe cage. In theory, this should offer protection against rocks and debris. We actually found that this felt a little restricting around the edges of our feet. We also noticed that the upper seemed to wear away quickly on this area of the shoe, exposing the grey material underneath.

When you put the shoes on, you’ll notice that there’s a little rudder at the back. This isn’t to protect you against mud creeping up your ankles – it actually provides extra stability. If you’re on uneven terrain or you’re running downhill, this should help to keep you steady. It’s effectively expanding the landing area of your foot, without feeling too cumbersome or awkward.

Fit, feel and comfort

These were immediately comfortable and secure when we put them on; the lace-up style means that you can get them as tight as you like, and the softly padded tongue meant that we didn’t experience any chafing. The heel collar (around the rim of the shoe) is well padded, too; it’s probably the thickest one that we’ve tested. 

Thanks to New Balance’s famous Fresh Foam material, which is used in the midsole, the shoe feels springy and light. This midsole is also great for protecting your feet from the repetitive ‘shock’ of striking the floor as you walk or run. 

That midsole is coupled with a fairly rigid outsole though, so the shoe doesn’t feel quite as 'soft' and pliable as your average high-end running shoe. Having a firm sneaker is great if you’re tackling rough terrain, but if you’re going to mostly be walking over concrete areas we’d recommend something that provides even softer cushioning, like the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze.

Support

There’s a phenomenal amount of support here, which is great for tackling rugged terrain. You have a firm outsole, a rugged mesh upper and incredible grip on the bottom of the shoe. This is combined with that sturdy rudder on the back; we felt supported in all of our excursions, even when tackling slippery surfaces in the rain.

There is some gentle arch support here, but as this is primarily a rugged trail running shoe it feels quite firm and rigid underfoot. If you’re after something gentler with more flexibility, you might prefer something like the Brooks Glycerin 19. While these are primarily a running shoe, we rate them as excellent walking shoes too, thanks to their cushioning and springy midsole. 

User reviews

Reviews are fairly positive for these shoes, with the models netting themselves 4.2 out of five stars on the New Balance site. Happy customers praise the comfortable feel of the shoes and the grip on the outsole. Lots of people say that they use the shoes specifically for hiking and walking on trails, with many of them saying that they find the grip supports them nicely in slippery conditions.

The handful of negative reviews mostly focus on sizing issues, with customers saying that the shoe feels narrow – and the shoe actually is narrower than its predecessor (the V5) which had a slightly wider toebox. There are also some reviews that say that the cushioning feels insufficient, too.

Verdict

We rate these shoes highly for trail running and hiking. While they’re not the most aesthetically pleasing design, they provide ample support for tackling uneven terrain. The superb grip means that you’ll be able to handle any kind of ground, while the rugged upper and Toe Protection on the shoe will keep you safe from brambles and falling debris.

The shoe feels quite firm and the outsole is rigid, which is what you want in a shoe if you’re going off the beaten path. But if you want a well-cushioned shoe that prioritises comfort over protection, you might be better off going with a less structured type of sneaker. 

Also try

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze

These are our favorite walking shoes for urban environments, thanks to their comfortable arch support and serious amount of cushioning. The mesh upper is fairly breathable, so your feet should stay cool in warmer weather – and they’re not too expensive either, coming in at around £40/ $40 less than the New Balance shoes reviewed above. 

Brooks Glycerin 19

If you’re specifically looking for a running shoe that can double up as a walking shoe, then this is our top pick. Lots of cushioning and a springy midsole means that this shoe will keep you light on your feet. They're not too heavy either, so they don’t feel clunky when you wear them.  

The Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze sneakers look like your average shoe, but they come with additional arch support. This support is so subtle that you won’t feel it when you first slip on the shoes, but by the end of a long walk you’ll be grateful for its presence. 

We tested the sneakers over a month and found them to be comfortable – they are simply the best shoes for walking if you’re in a city or urban environment.

The shoe’s arch support comes in the form of a removable gel insole, which molds to your foot over time. This is coupled with a soft upper, which hugs the foot without constricting it, and a padded tongue that prevents chafing. It’s a shoe that has been designed for comfort, so you can wear it for long periods of time.

We found it hard to pick fault with the design, only focusing on the fact that the shoes aren’t waterproof and they produce a loud squeaking noise on polished hard surfaces. They're also women's shoes and as such only available in female sizes; men will have to opt for one of the other shoes in the Go Walk Arch Fit range.

• Buy Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze (US)
• Buy Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze (UK)

Design and technology

There’s a range of Skecher Go Walk Arch Fit shoes to pick from, but we opted for the Motion Breeze. It has a lace-up design, which allows you to tighten the shoe to your preference, and a modest style that pairs well with most outfits.

The shoe has Skechers’ podiatrist-certified Arch Fit insole, which provides a gentle slope underneath the arch of your foot. It’s made from a gel-like material that’s punctured with holes on one side. These holes, combined with cooling properties of the gel, kept our feet cooler on hot days, despite the black colorway of the sneaker.

Skechers has also used its ULTRA GO material in the midsole of the shoe, which is a lightweight material. This has all the springiness and bounce found in typical running shoes, but it doesn’t add much weight to the design.

The mesh upper is surprisingly breathable, despite being thick. We didn’t find our feet overheating on long walks. The collar of the shoe – which is the little rim at the back – fit well and had enough padding that we never experienced discomfort. Similarly, the heel counter at the back of the shoe had plenty of give, so we didn’t experience any movement or rubbing. 

It's worth flagging that the Motion Breeze is a women's shoe, but you'll find the same midsole technology and arch support across the full Go Walk Arch Fit range. 

Fit, feel and comfort

Skechers has made a name for itself by designing special walking shoes: some of its designs can massage your feet as you walk, others supposedly propel you onwards thanks to their clever shaping. The Arch Fit shoes are more humble in their intent: providing support where it’s needed – but we found this design tweak to be effective. 

At one point during our testing, we racked up about 22,000 steps in a single day while wearing them. Despite this, we experienced virtually none of the dull aches and pains that we’d usually have in the soles of our feet, thanks to that extra bridge of arch support. And even when the trainers were new there were no niggles or “breaking in” – the shoes fit perfectly straight away. They were true to size as well, matching up with our UK 6/ US 39.5 feet perfectly.

The shoes also felt springy, thanks to that ULTRA GO midsole. And we found standing for long periods in the shoe to be comfortable, too. The only complaint we have about the feel of the shoe is that it’s clunky, and so it is easy to “catch” things when you walk past them.

Support and grip

The outsole on the Motion Breeze has dual-density traction, which means there are two materials on the bottom of the shoe. In theory, these materials should provide a secure grip for different situations. But an unfortunate side-effect of this design is that you’re likely to get pebbles stuck in the tracks. 

As this shoe only has a mesh upper and doesn’t offer ankle support, it’s best suited for long walks on flat surfaces, where you’re unlikely to be dealing with brambles or uneven terrain; we wouldn’t recommend this shoe for off-road hiking. 

User reviews

There aren’t many reviews for this Motion Breeze option; one person on the Skechers website has complained about the squeaky noise produced by the shoes.

Reviews of the general GO WALK Arch Fit line are broadly positive, with people praising the arch support and claiming that it helps them with foot-related issues. Most people highlight the comfortable fit of the shoe and say they find them stylish enough to wear every day.

Negative reviews are smaller in number, but there are a handful on the website complaining that the shoes were uncomfortable and felt too tight. 

Verdict

We’re big fans of the Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit Motion Breeze shoes. They’re comfortable, and with just enough support for long walks. As they have a simple mesh upper and lack ankle support, we’d recommend these for bramble-free urban environments; if you’re planning on vacationing in a city and want shoes to support your tour, these are a great choice.

Also consider

Merrell Moab 3

If you’re going for an off-road ramble and need something that feels stiffer and more supportive, try the Merrell Moab 3 shoes. These popular walking shoes are designed to last and they’re waterproof, so hiking through wet grass shouldn’t be an issue. 

Brooks Glycerin 19

If you want something to double up as a great running shoe, we’d recommend Brooks Glycerin 19. A little firmer than the Skechers, though softer than the Merrell Moab 3s, they provide a nice midground. The springy design means that it will suit fast walkers, who like to hike at pace, and the cushioning will help fatigued legs push on. 

• Buy Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze (US)
• Buy Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze (UK)

There's a lot to like about the Allbirds Tree Runners. They're very eco-friendly – thanks to their sustainable materials – and they look fairly stylish too. The breathable, eucalyptus upper means that the shoe doesn't feel too warm in hot weather and the lightweight material means that they feel almost weightless on the foot.

These are undoubtedly the best shoes for walking if you’re an eco-conscious buyer. However, there is a catch, which is that they don't provide much in the way of cushioning. If you're using these to walk over uneven ground, you'll feel everything that passes underfoot. 

We didn't find this caused any serious discomfort and there are even some benefits to wearing a lightweight, pliable shoe. But if you’re buying shoes for more serious off-the-grid walking holidays, then you should opt for something more substantial. 

Design and technology

The Tree Runner is a shoe for the environmentally conscious. The upper is made from eucalyptus fiber, a fast-growing tree that lives on natural rainfall, while the SweetFoam midsole is made from renewable sugarcane. There’s also a soft insole made from Merino wool and castor bean oil – and the shoelaces are made from recycled polyester.

Using these sustainably sourced materials does come at a price. The SweetFoam midsole was noticeably thinner than those on the other shoes we tested. And while the eucalyptus upper is breathable, it isn’t thick, so it won’t protect you from prickly bushes and other niggly plants. 

Arguably, this is looking at the Allbirds in the wrong light; if you’re using the shoes to travel across city streets and sandy roads, then you don’t need all these layers of protection. In fact, having a pliable, soft-material shoe allows you to connect more solidly with the ground beneath you. And their soft, breathable design means that they’re excellent in hot weather.

Fit, feel and comfort

As mentioned, there’s minimum cushioning here, especially under the ball of the foot. The silver lining to this minimalist approach is that the shoes are lightweight, coming in at just 0.5lbs. If you hate feeling constricted by clunky, heavy boots, then these are a great option. 

We also found that there were situations where the flexibility of that thin midsole came in handy. When pulling ourselves along uneven terrain, we were able to easily bend the shoe around awkward shapes in the ground.

Allbirds actively encourages you to wear your shoes without socks, which we tried out. We were pleasantly surprised that there was no odor after doing this. This quality is apparently down to the Merino wool insole liner, which wicks away moisture when you sweat. The shoes can get surprisingly hot if you do wear socks, so we’d recommend getting comfortable being barefoot in these sneakers.

Everything feels pliable about this design: the heel counter, which forms the back column of the shoe, and the collar are soft. And the stretchy eucalyptus upper on this shoe means that it can accomodate any foot shape. If your toes splay out a little or you have wider feet, you should be able to fit into them comfortably.

Support

The outsole of the shoe is lined with deep ridges, which provide a decent level of grip. This isn’t as comprehensive as something like the GoWALK Arch Fit Motion Breeze, which has two types of rubber installed on the bottom. But if your shoes are primarily going to be used for walking along streets or sandy areas, it should be sufficient.

There’s a nice little curve of arch support built into the shoe, thanks to that removable insole, which provided support during longer walks of 10,000+ steps.

User reviews

There are hundreds of glowingly positive reviews for these shoes online. Out of 665 bits of feedback on the Allbirds website, the shoes have netted an impressive 4.7 out of five stars. Happy customers praise the comfort, aesthetics and sustainability credentials of the shoe.

The handful of negative reviews are mostly focused on sizing issues: the website advises that customers go down a size, as the shoe supposedly expands to fit your feet, but some customers have found this isn’t the case. Other negative reviews state that the shoes are too soft and provide too little support. 

Verdict

These are the ideal shoes for traveling: lightweight and breathable, they are great in hot weather as long as you’re happy to ditch your socks. The flexible outsole on the shoe means that they can easily be flexed around uneven terrain, but the lack of cushioning might not suit all walkers. 

We’d recommend these shoes if you’re someone who prioritizes sustainability. The credentials for the shoes are watertight, thanks to the use of renewable materials and a carbon-neutral manufacturing process. However, if you’re planning on a serious hiking holiday that’s going to take you into rough, rugged terrain, we’d recommend you look elsewhere for a walking shoe.

Also try

Merrell Moab 3

The Merrell Moab 3s might not have the same sustainable materials as the Allbirds design, but they are built to last. Made from tough pig skin, it’s packed with all kinds of rigid support, with a protective toe cap and a special air cushion heel that absorbs impact.  

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Motion Breeze

These chunky trainers from Skechers are a little heavier than the Allbirds, but they look surprisingly similar. With a more cushioned midsole and a greater level of grip, they’re more of a 'serious' walking shoe with a higher level of support. This does mean that the sole is inflexible, but if you prefer a 'springier' type of shoe then this is a good option.  

The Merrell Moab 3 has one of the most instantly recognisable names in the walking shoe world, and for good reason. The brand’s Moab series has been helping hikers conquer the miles for more than 15 years, so we were excited to get our hands (or should that be feet) on the latest iteration. 

Merrell prides itself on the shoes’ out-the-box comfort. To test these claims, we took them straight out for a six mile trek across the testing terrain of a nearby nature reserve – and we were left thoroughly impressed. Within minutes, they had solidified a spot on our list of the best shoes for walking, taking steep gradients and slippery surfaces in their stride.

Rather than taking sides in the walking shoes vs running shoes debate, the Merrell Moab 3s offer the best of both worlds. Like a classic walking boot, they offer enough support for longer walks, but the low heel and accommodating upper mean that they’re easy to put on and supremely comfortable from the off. 

They fit true to size, the thick grooves of the sturdy Vibram outsole provide excellent grip on all surfaces, and at £90 or $110USD they’re fairly wallet-friendly too. 

So, if you’re a fan of adventurous walks looking for 4x4s for your feet – but don’t want to spend an age lacing up a pair of bulky boots – look no further. 

• Buy Merrell Moab 3s on Amazon

Design and technology

The Merrell Moab 3s have an upper made from pig suede leather and breathable mesh, giving them a traditional walking shoe aesthetic. They can be bought in black, olive or pecan (pictured) in the UK, with the additional options of granite, moss, walnut and walnut/moss colourways available in the US. 

Their traditional design is likely to split opinion. Those who are used to slimmer sneakers may find them too chunky for everyday wear, however hiking boot fans will appreciate they are slimmer than your average walking shoe. Overall, we liked the look and found it fitted in well with our walking ensemble. 

The Moab 3s feature a Vibram TC5+ outsole, Merrell Air Cushion technology in the heel and removable Kinetic Fit Advanced insoles with a reinforced heel. Combined, these provided a sturdy yet supportive platform for our feet, and we could really feel the spring of the additional cushioning with each step. 

Thick grooves of the heel are prone to picking up mud, so they might not be well-suited to a trip to the shops. However, we found this wide base made the Moab 3s great for balance and stability when traversing tricky terrain. They are also easy to clean with a firm brush and warm water. 

A nylon arch shank within the outsole ensures the shoes remain rigid and stable, but there is more give at the flex point of the shoe (underneath the ball of your foot) than most walking boots, allowing your feet to bend naturally when taking on gradients. 

A toe cap protected us from stubbed toes, and a bellows tongue (wider and stitched into either side of the shoe) stopped pesky debris like loose stones from entering our shoes and causing discomfort.

Fit, feel and comfort

The shoes’ impressive comfort credentials were apparent from the moment we slipped them on, with the pig suede leather and breathable mesh upper striking a fine balance between pliability and rigidity.

The initial fit felt almost sneaker-like, with the flexible materials immediately molding to our feet. So, there’s no need to waste any time breaking them in before you hit the trails. However, the upper still provides the midfoot support you would expect from the best walking shoes, making us confident we could take on longer treks without having to endure aching feet after a couple of kilometers. 

They fit true to size and are suitable for wearers with narrow to average width feet. I normally wear a size ten and have relatively narrow feet, and a size ten pair of the Merrell Moab 3s provided an ideal fit; my heel locked firmly into place, preventing blisters from forming, and there was enough room around the toes so they didn’t hit the end of the shoe when walking downhill. After making sure they were laced correctly, I also found the shoes wrapped around the sides of my feet effectively without ever feeling constricting.

At 2lb 1oz, they’re lighter than traditional hiking boots but heavier than many modern walking shoes, and the chunky sole may take some adjusting to if you’re used to shoes with a slimmer profile like the On Cloud.  But we found this robust design was well-suited to longer distances or more heavy-duty treks. 

The extra cushioning in the sole (particularly underneath the heel) puts a spring in your step, counteracting the extra weight, and the wide outsole makes for a stable base when walking over slippery surfaces. The sole also has large grooves which provide great grip on all terrains we tested them on, from dewy grass to muddy declines.

Support

When it comes to support, the Moab 3s are the best walking shoes we tested. Maybe it’s a result of Merrell’s 41-year history in manufacturing hiking boots, but the shoes were unrivaled when it came to providing comfort and protection, particularly over longer distances. 

The thick outsole and reinforced heel of the insole combine to provide a cushioned yet responsive feel. Add the padded heel and tongue into the mix and our feet felt cradled and comfortable, whether we were on kilometer one or 10. So, if you’re planning a walking holiday or staycation where you’re likely to be on your feet for large portions of the day, these are a great option. 

The material of the upper is malleable enough that it doesn’t need to be broken in and we never felt like our feet were being forced into position. But, it was still firm enough to provide a good amount of midfoot support, keeping our feet from aching when we found ourselves on our feet for prolonged periods.

User reviews

On the Merrell website, the Moab 3 boasts a host of five-star reviews with buyers sharing their positive experiences with the footwear. 

Most people agreed the shoes fit true to size and provide an incredibly comfortable walking experience across a wide variety of distances and terrains, without the need to break them in. 

Most say they wear their Merrell Moab 3s for walking, but others hail the versatile shoe for being suitable for active jobs and everyday wear. 

The only negative reviews mention that the shoes are not waterproof, with one saying they found their feet quickly became wet when walking through long, dewy grass. An alternative version of the Moab 3s with a Gore-Tex membrane, offering both waterproofing and breathability, is available for the higher price of £120 or $155USD.

Verdict

The brilliantly comfortable Moab 3s are an impressive addition to the Merrell family, balancing the benefits of hiking boots and sneakers to provide a versatile walking shoe. They have the sturdiness and support of a hiking boot without needing a lengthy break-in period. Yet, thanks to their sneaker-like low ankle and premium materials, they take no time at all to put on and provide comfort from the first wear.

They have quite a chunky fit and, at 920g, are on the heavier side for a walking shoe. But this has plenty of advantages, giving them a robust feel and making them well-suited to explorers or active wearers with a high daily step count. 

Also consider

On Cloud X

After an all-round performer? The On Cloud X is one of the best cross-training shoes you can find, meaning it's great for walking, running and all other manner of exercise. Through the brand’s signature CloudTec technology (a series of rubber formations in the sole designed to provide multi-directional cushioning) they offer a comfortable walking and workout experience to keep your feet feeling fresh and pain-free.  

Allbirds Tree Runner

For hot weather environments, the Allbirds tree runners are an excellent choice. Breathable and made from environmentally-friendly materials, this shoe is great to slip on if you're doing some traveling. While it might not have the same level of cushioning as some of the other models in our walking shoe guide, it does have a more flexible sole that allows you to 'bend' the shoe around uneven terrain.

• Buy Merrell Moab 3s on Amazon

The Brooks Glycerin 19 is a highly cushioned and lightweight trainer. It’s available in two different types, the ‘neutral’ Glycerin 19 or the ‘support’ Glycerin 19 GTS (‘go-to-support’), the latter of which provides bonus support through GuideRails technology.

The Glycerin has always been one of Brooks’ most cushioned shoes, designed for easy or longer runs. Having run my fifth marathon in these, I can confirm they withstand several miles and keep your feet feeling nicely supported the whole way. Yet despite being a running shoe first and foremost, I consider the Glycerin 19 one of the best shoes for walking based on its high-cushioned support. Some healthcare workers and those who spend prolonged periods of time on their feet also favor the Glycerin 19 for everyday wear.

In this review, we’ll look in-depth at the design, technology, fit and feel of this popular trainer to see if it’s the right choice for you when it comes to walking. Looking for more footwear recommendations? Have a scroll through our best running shoe for women guide, or gear up with some of the best cross training shoes. 

Design and technology

The Glycerin 19 is part of the Brooks Cushion series, which also includes the Ghost 14, Adrenaline GTS and Trace. The Glycerin 19 is actually available in two models: neutral and support. Both contain the brand’s signature ‘DNA Loft’ cushioning throughout the full length of the midsole. First introduced by Brooks in 2018, this is designed to provide a soft experience from heel to toe. Compared to previous models, like the 17 and 18, the 19 packs in more DNA Loft, providing a heightened level of cushioning. The idea behind ‘DNA’ is that the foam cushioning adapts to your individual stride. In theory, this should keep injuries at bay. There’s also extra air in the midsole compared to previous Glycerin models, so that the extra cushioning doesn’t feel heavy. 

In the Glycerin 19 GTS there’s added ‘GuideRails technology’ in the midsole. This means denser sections of foam are added to the sides of the shoe to prevent the foot from collapsing inwards when you run. On the outside of the heel, the foam is both firmer and higher, reducing the shifting of the heel in the outward direction. As a result, this offers better ankle, knee, and hip support.

For the upper, an engineered mesh molds around your foot for a comfortable fit. It’s 3D printed too, allowing for a stretchy fit that still feels breathable. The collar and tongue are extra padded to avoid any rubbing on the top of your foot, and an internal heel counter locks you into place so you don’t slip inside the shoe. 

The Glycerin 19 also comes with about a 10mm heel-to-toe drop. Despite all the padding, it’s incredibly lightweight, weighing in at around 9 oz for the women’s trainer, and 10 oz for the men’s.

Fit, feel and comfort

The Glycerin 19 is available in eight attractive colors. Design wise, it’s not the most glamorous shoe, but it’s certainly not the worst either. Having said this, I did get a couple of compliments for the black/ombre/metallic design I tried out, so perhaps Brooks are upping their game in terms of colorways. In the US, sizes range from a 5-13 in the women’s, with narrow, medium and wide fit available. In the men’s, sizes range from 5-16, available in medium and wide fit.

I’m a UK size 8 normally, so I opted for a UK 8.5 as I normally do with running shoes. However, I think you could get away with going a whole size up in the Glycerin 19s. My toes weren’t necessarily cramped (I didn’t lose any toenails during my marathon which was a nice surprise) but I’d definitely say these are on the snug side. I also have quite wide feet, so opted for the wide fit version of the shoe. I didn’t experience any pins and needles around the midfoot (which I get when a shoe is too tight), but I definitely think a UK size 9 would have provided a better fit overall.

Without a doubt, this is an incredibly springy shoe, and the Glycerin 19 is clearly designed for comfort. Whether you’re pounding the pavements or using these as an everyday walking shoe, the impressive level of support and DNA Loft cushioning really does make you feel like you’re walking on air.

While I did run with the Glycerin 19s straight out of the box, I’d say they take a couple of uses to break in. I experienced some chafing on my right achilles during the first couple of uses, which did turn into a blister. However, after about three or four runs, I found this stopped completely and the shoes had molded to my feet as promised. My heels felt nicely supported too. It sounds odd to describe laces as ‘premium’ but they’re a really lovely material, and long enough to loop through the extra shoelace loops if you do want to increase the ankle support.

Support

The outsole uses Brooks’ IDEAL pressure zones to make sure that striking pressure is distributed across the whole foot. The outsole also uses soft, blown rubber to soften landings and increase the ground feel. Although I have to say, I found the Glycerin 19 so cushioned that I couldn’t really feel the ground beneath my feet much at all. In fact, I ran the Paris marathon in them and could hardly feel the difference between the cobblestones and the flat tarmac.

In terms of grip, I’m not sure I’d trust the Glycerin 19 on tougher terrains – especially if there is loose ground underfoot. They also feel less grippy in wet conditions, which is probably why they aren’t designed for speed work when it comes to running.

User reviews

User reviews for the Brooks Glycerin 19 are very positive, with the shoe consistently scoring above 4.5 stars on multiple retailers’ websites. Many users note that, compared to previous models, the 19s are extremely well cushioned from toe to heel. In line with my experience, lots of users enjoy the Glycerins for multiple activities. One person wrote, “I am using these for gym cardio workouts, jogging and walking. I highly recommend this shoe. I have a bit of a wide foot and these fit perfectly.” 

More negative reviews note that the trainer does come up small, with many people finding that you need to size up an entire shoe size, rather than just half. Achilles chafing seems to be common to begin with too, with one user noting, “I wore them for a small 1.25 mile walk and the backs were rubbing the back of my feet raw”. Another said, “They were uncomfortable for the first three of four runs. However since breaking them in they have been amazing and I noticed an improvement in my pace very quickly. Have run about 150 road miles in them now, approx 20 a week and love them.” 

Verdict

Overall, I would definitely recommend the Brooks Glycerin 19 to anyone looking for an everyday walking shoe that they can also use for running. They’re certainly not the cheapest trainer on the market, but they’re not the most expensive either. Plus, for the level of support you’re getting and the springy, lightweight feel, I’d say the price is entirely justified. Other than the fact that they took a few wears for the Achilles discomfort to subside, there’s really not much to fault with the Brooks Glycerin 19. But I would say if you’re looking for a slightly tougher walking shoe that can withstand tough terrains, then this might not be the best option for you based on the outsole. 

Also consider

New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro V6

These trail running and hiking shoes are great if you want a slightly tougher sneaker for off-road routes. With the brand's classic fresh foam midsole, they feel light and springy while you're on the move. Toe Protect technology and a tough mesh upper mean that your foot will be protected from brambles and debris, while the sturdy Vibram outsoles are excellent for gripping on different terrain.

Nike Revolution 5

For a more budget friendly option, try the Nike Revolution 5. Available in a variety of colorways, the soft foam for the midsole provides cushioning and support, while the rubber outsole offers both traction and durability. 

Our Echelon Smart Rower review will take you through everything you need to know about this premium home rowing machine. We put the rower to the test and found it was an effective way to train, especially when coupled with the Echelon app's virtual workouts.

There's a premium price attached to the rower, especially as you have to pay a monthly charge for the app, but the quality of the machine and the extensive library of classes make the Smart Rower one of the best rowing machines available today.

Whether you're new to rowing or an experienced rower, you'll find a workout to suit your experience and fitness goals. Beginner-friendly classes help you focus on your form and advanced sessions for high-intensity exercise.

The Echelon Smart Rower is often compared to the Hydrow rowing machine as they are both high-quality, comfortable rowers. But as we found in our Hydrow review, that machine comes with an integrated display but can't be folded for storage like the Echelon model.

After spending some time with the rower, we felt that it was an effective way to get many of the rowing machine benefits without leaving the house. We'll look at the machine's key features to help you decide if it's right for your home.

Echelon Smart Rower: price & features

The Echelon Smart Rower, sometimes known as the Echelon Rower or Echelon Row, retails for $1,299/£1,199. This is a one-time cost for the machine itself, but you'll need an Echelon membership to get the complete package.

For $34.99/£29.99 per month, you can use the Echelon smartphone app to access live and on-demand workouts tailored to your machine. Each class has a unique leader board, and your subscription supports up to five users.

While you can use the machine without the app, you won’t be able to track your workout, view your metrics, or tell what resistance level you’re on. As it doesn’t even come with a display of its own, it might not sound like the best value for money. 

But there’s a lot to like about the Echelon Smart Rower. The rowing machine comes in two parts; the resistance mechanism and the sliding rail. It takes just a few screws to bolt them together, but the join is also where the machine folds, lifting the rail in the air for storage.

It comes with 32 levels of magnetic resistance, which is the quietest style of rowing machine resistance. It's an essential consideration for at-home exercise, especially if you’re conscious of the neighbors or disturbing anyone in your home.

The magnetic mechanism means there are fewer mechanical components, so it's easier to maintain. Plus, the foldable design makes it easy to pack the equipment away after your workout, although it still has a sizeable footprint.

Echelon Smart Rower: design and assembly

At a glance, the Echelon Smart Rower looks recognizably like a rowing machine. The larger front portion houses the resistance mechanism and has an adjustable arm to hold your smartphone or tablet.

This small detail plays a vital role on the machine, as there's no built-in display. Traditionally, rowing machines have a small screen for workout metrics, but the idea here is that everything is shown in the Echelon app instead.

Depending on your outlook, the lack of integrated display may be the only slight kink in an otherwise impeccable bit of equipment. The seat easily glides along, the handles fit neatly into the holder, and the folding mechanism is easy to use.

But to use any of these features, you need to assemble the machine first. Although you'll only need to do this once, it's worth being prepared because the machine is incredibly heavy (108lbs/49kg) and is realistically a two-person task.

The front portion of the rower houses the resistance mechanism and all the weight. It was a struggle to attach the supports and seated area to the front of the machine on my own. I'd definitely recommend having someone help you with this if you can.

Echelon Smart Rower: performance

Ordinarily, you'd judge a rowing machine on how it feels to use, how you can use it to exercise, and what it can tell you about your performance. In the Echelon Smart Rower's case, it's worth discussing these points separately.

The overall Echelon Smart Rower experience is actually made of three parts. There's the machine itself, the Echelon app for tracking your performance, and the app also provides workout inspiration.

You can use the machine without a display, but it'd be an extremely feature-limited workout, without access to metrics or any way to see what resistance level you're on. There's a switch just below the resistance mechanism, which powers on the machine.

I could never find any outward signs that it had turned on, but the power enables the smart features, which you'll need even if you aren't using the app. The handlebar isn't just used for exercising either, as it houses the resistance level controller.

It has a battery inside that powers a wireless connection with the machine, so you can quickly toggle the near-silent resistance level without pausing your workout. It's a relatively simple design, but I found it enormously convenient.

This is ideal for during Echelon's virtual classes. These are themed instructor-led sessions are designed around the company's machines (the app also supports its other hardware, like exercise bikes and treadmills).

And if you work up a sweat, it’s easy to wipe down the machine as most of the unit is made of metal or has a hard plastic finish. I tend to find rowing machine seats uncomfortable, but that wasn’t the case here, as I never felt pain or discomfort during a workout.

Unlike the rowing machines I’ve used at the gym, the footplate was easy to adjust, too, and the hook-and-loop, Velcro-style straps are large enough to hold without difficulty, quick to tighten, and easy to release when you’re finished.

Like its competitors, the Echelon Smart Rower sessions also have a leader board. I don't really enjoy this style of competition, so I mostly ignored how I fared against others, although some will find this helps keep them motivated.

Each class has a dedicated playlist, and you can choose a session tailored to a particular style of music, like rock, dance, and even classical. Similarly, there are five-minute routines when you're tight on time or longer two-hour rows.

Echelon Smart Rower: tech and data

Although you can pick up the handles and start rowing, the real strength of the Echelon Smart Rower is the Echelon Fit app. This is available for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices, although it suits a larger tablet display better rather than a smartphone.

It has two functions, firstly, as a digital rowing machine display with plenty of stats like the distance you've traveled, your resistance level, and stroke speed. But it's also where you'll find on-demand and live classes.

This is the Peloton-style part of the experience and what most of your monthly subscription is for. There is an almost endless amount of content, from short beginner-friendly sessions to intense rows, making it also one of the best exercise machines to lose weight. 

The app loads to the content library, and you can select the style and duration of your virtual workout. There's an in-workout overlay with all of your machine's stats, and I found it easy to keep an eye on my progress without getting distracted.

The app is efficient, it's effective, but it's also a reasonably functional experience. The software doesn't feel premium, it has very few integrations with other apps or fitness watches, and there's only limited ability to customize it.

On-demand classes look like live sessions with dates and times but scheduled in the past, you can't easily see historical performance to track your progress, and there's no clear way to tell if your machine is actually connected or not.

Selecting a class can also be a frustrating experience. The app has a vast library to choose from (this is definitely a good thing), and you can filter the list by workout type, length, music genre, and instructor.

But the data is messy; rather than standardizing the length—so 15 minutes, one hour, etc.—there are options like 13 or 16 minutes, there's a genre titled Decades which has zero classes, and you can choose to train with DemoInstructor.

In the grand scheme, these are smaller details, and the exercise classes themselves are fun, motivational, and give you a good workout. But for a service that costs $34.99/£29.99 per month, you'd expect a flawless experience.

Echelon Smart Rower: user reviews

It's worth considering the machine and app separately because they really are two products. Owners of the rowing machine rate it highly and value the build quality and attention to detail, scoring it an average of 4.5 stars out of 5 on Amazon.

Users consistently mention that the machine is easy to assemble (one reviewer wrote that “the experience of putting this together was a sheer pleasure.”) and incredibly quiet to use. Many appreciated the foldable design so the machine can be tucked away when not in use.

Although I had a good experience with the seat, that wasn’t the case for everyone. One Amazon reviewer said that “my tailbone rubbed a bit on the seat” but that they replaced it with a thin seat pad from a third-party and had no problems fitting it. 

However, the app is evidently not meeting people's expectations. It has a low rating on both stores, only reaching 3.1 out of 5 on Apple's App Store and 2 out of 5 on the Google Play Store.

Quite a few of the comments on both stores related to specific short-term problems or device compatibility might not reflect their overall experience. Likewise, the app covers all of Echelon's smart devices, like the Echelon Bike.

But some key themes emerge, like the lack of third-party integrations, limited ability to analyze workout data, and that you can't listen to your own music during one of the classes, only the Echelon-approved soundtrack.

As one Android user noted, “you have to go into your rides, one by one, and inspect the data,” if you want to see how you did in past workouts, making it difficult to track your progress over time. 

Echelon Smart Rower: verdict

The Echelon Smart Rower is a premium rowing machine, and every detail feels well-designed. The handlebar controller is extremely convenient, allowing you to change resistance levels mid-workout quickly.

The app does what it needs to—offering access to live and on-demand workouts—but little else. The machine itself feels worth the hefty price, but the Echelon app does little to justify its high monthly subscription.

It's frustrating because the bones of what's needed are all there; it just needs some polish. Even then, $35 a month is still a steep price for virtual workouts, especially since you can sign up to the Peloton app for $12.99/month, without needing one of the company’s machines, to access cycling, yoga, and strength training classes. 

Those details aside, if you're a fan of rowing, the Echelon Smart Rower is an excellent choice for at-home workouts. There's plenty of variety, live and on-demand classes, and even a leader board to motivate you.

Also consider

Concept2 RowErg

The Concept2 RowErg is a more affordable alternative to the Echelon Smart Rower. There’s no interactive workouts, but the small digital display records industry-standard metrics. There’s only 10 levels of air-based resistance, instead of the Smart Rower’s 32 magnetic levels, but, as we found in our Concept2 RowErg review, it excels at the basics and is a durable machine for at-home workouts. 

WaterRower Natural

While magnetic resistance is quiet and quick to change, the WaterRower Natural is as close as you can come to the on-water experience without leaving your home. There’s no folding mechanism, although you can store it upright. Plus, as we enjoyed in our WaterRower Natural review, it comes with an attractive wood-based finish, rather than the all-metal design of the Echelon Smart Rower. 

If you've been looking for a Hydrow review to help you decide whether this smart rowing machine is suitable for your home, we can help. We put the Hydrow to the test, trialing the device and the company's All-Access Membership for on-demand and live workouts.

The Hydrow rower often makes its way onto the best rowing machine roundups, and we wanted to see how it fared against similar and often cheaper options. It has a lot going for it; quiet magnetic resistance, premium design, and over 3,000 virtual workouts.

While the company focuses on rowing rather than spin or indoor cycling, fitness enthusiasts sometimes compare Hydrow to the Peloton Bike. After trying it, we can see similarities, but Hydrow has its own style, approach to exercise, and entirely different hardware.

The connected rowing machine is more comparable to the Echelon Smart Rower, an alternative connected rowing machine with a subscription service for virtual on-demand and live workouts.

But at almost $1,000/£800 more than the Echelon machine, is the Hydrow worth the investment? Whether you're new to rowing or an experienced rower, Hydrow's accessible, clear approach to exercise and high-quality equipment make it one of the top options for at-home workouts.

Hydrow review: price & features

The Hydrow is a premium rowing machine with a price to match. The connected rower is available from Hydrow directly for $2,495/£1,995. This makes it considerably more expensive than the industry-standard Concept2 RowErg or the similarly-featured Echelon Smart Rower, both of which retail for less than $1,500/£1,000.

On top of this, you'll also need an All-Access Membership for $38/£38 per month to get the most from your new machine. The Hydrow has a Just Row mode, which you can use without a subscription if you want an independent rowing workout. Still, the main selling point of this machine is the company's live and on-demand virtual workouts streamed to the integrated 22-inch Full HD display.

Your membership includes a daily selection of live workouts (usually scheduled for US timezones), over 3,000 on-demand classes that you can take whenever you fancy, and an in-workout leader board. Some people enjoy this competitive element, which is why the cycling-based Peloton Bike, with its own leader board, is so popular. We decided to hide it during our Hydrow workouts, though.

When we sat down at the machine, we spotted what looked like a camera just above the display, but there’s no mention anywhere about personalized or coached workouts. However, when we contacted Hydrow about this, they said, "current Hydrows [include] a lens at the top that gives the appearance of an onboard camera. However, no camera is actually installed in this housing." So the reason for this is a bit of a mystery. 

Some rowing machines make quite a noise while exercising, depending on the resistance mechanism. Air-based machines are the loudest, while magnetic ones are generally the quietest. The Hydrow comes with a magnetic system, so you'll be able to exercise without disturbing others in your home. The machine is Bluetooth-enabled, so you can pair a set of the best workout earbuds for streaming the workouts.  

Hydrow review: design & assembly

Before you can exercise, you need to set up the machine. Rowers are large, heavy objects, so the ease of assembly is an important consideration. The Hydrow comes in three parts; the feet, the main body with the resistance mechanism, and the display. Only a few large screws are needed to fit everything together, but it's a two-person task to do it safely.

Once we plugged the rower into the mains, getting the digital side set up was easy. The touchscreen display guides you through the initial setup, including connecting to the Wi-Fi, installing updates, and creating your personal profile on the machine. You can add an unlimited number of other users later in the settings so that the whole household can exercise with the Hydrow.

By the time the rower was ready to use, it was easy to appreciate the sleek overall design. Rowing machines are often split into two distinct parts; the resistance mechanism and the seat slider. This helps for transport, but the Hydrow's unibody design is surprisingly minimalistic and hides some of the more unsightly mechanical parts beneath the surface.

Other than the display, you only really need to touch the feet plates and the handlebar. We found that the plates were pretty easy to adjust to the correct size, but they did feel like they were made of slightly cheap plastic. This is understandable, as they need to flex under your foot, but the clip mechanism wasn't as elegant as the slider found on other rowing machines.

The Hydrow machine has a moderate footprint—86 x 25 x 47 inches—but it's not foldable. So, unless you buy the upright storage kit for an extra $80, you can move it around, but it'll always take up the same amount of space. Given that you're buying an expensive premium machine, we were disappointed that Hydrow doesn't include the storage kit with the rower.

That aside, there's little not to like about the machine. It looks good, has wheels so you can move it around your home, and feels easy to work out on. We were also impressed with how little maintenance you have to do. For the most part, you only need to give the Hydrow a quick wipe-down after your workout, and the app has a short video showing you how to clean the sliding rail.

Hydrow review: performance

The Hydrow does have a Just Row mode if you want to pick up the handles and start rowing. However, you can only access this option if you don't have an active subscription. So, we used our All-Access Membership to test out the machine's virtual workouts instead. You're not left to fend for yourself and dive right into a live class if you're new to rowing.

When you set up a new profile, the software highlights introduction classes, instructional videos, and guided tutorials to get you started. If you feel ready to go straight to the classes, you can skip these, but we still recommend taking 30 minutes to run through them. The instructors—Olympic athletes, fitness experts, and personal trainers—use their knowledge to turn technical concepts into something relatable.

We tried Olympian Aquil Abdullah's introduction sessions filmed on location next to a very idyllic lake. Aside from the pleasing surroundings, Aquil's guidance was approachable, never condescending, and helped us focus on the three-part rowing process to get our form right. It's quite common for people to slump into the move slightly, but as Aquil explained, the key is a strong core and focused movements. 

We used Laine Maher's leg warm-up, jumped into a 20-minute on-demand class, and tackled a one-minute river challenge (set on the River Thames in London). You can rotate the screen to the side for off-machine workouts, so we also decided to try a 10-minute core workout that was impressively demanding.

The accessible but challenging workouts were effective, fun, and motivating, but the machine was also a pleasure to use. When choosing a rower, you have to decide between water rowing machines vs magnetic vs air-based models. They all have their strengths, but the Hydrow takes a slightly different approach.

The company refers to the resistance as the drag, and it's set to 104 by default. You don't need to worry about what the number represents either, as Hydrow encourages you not to adjust this. According to Hydrow, "drag is not a generic "difficulty setting" for rowing on Hydrow." Instead, they recommend focusing on your form and technique to get more from your workout.

Hydrow review: tech & data

The Hydrow is a capable rowing machine with a subscription-based app for virtual workouts in its most basic form. This may not sound like it justifies the price, but the company has taken this simple concept and made the best experience possible. This is what separates the Hydrow from other smart rowing machines.

For instance, in our Echelon Smart Rower review, we felt that the company paired a high-quality machine with a mid-range digital platform, which devalued the overall rowing experience. That's not the case with the Hydrow—during testing, everything about the hardware and software felt well-designed, easy to use, and made to get out of your way.

The focus is solely on helping you get the most from your exercise. The on-screen instructions are clear, and the 22-inch display is about the same size as a small television or computer monitor, so we didn't find it difficult to read text. The large screen made the workouts feel immersive, particularly classes filmed on-location.

Your workout metrics like speed, distance traveled, and calories burned are shown on-screen while you exercise. After you're done, you can tap over to your Profile to see your performance and workout history. This makes it easy to track your progress over time, especially if you also use a compatible heart rate monitor, connected via Bluetooth or ANT+, to keep tabs on your heart.

The company also offers a companion smartphone app as part of your subscription. You can edit your profile, view recent activity, and follow other users, but the main feature is to access Hydrow's virtual workouts even when you're away from the machine. Although Hydrow manufactures a rowing machine, the app includes strength training programs, yoga classes, and mindful movement sessions.

Hydrow review: user reviews

The Hydrow rower scores 4.7 out of five on Trustpilot from over 9,000 reviews. Almost 85% of reviewers give the machine a perfect score, praising its ease of use and the instructors' personalities.

The fixed drag setting put some people off, but they grew to like it over time. One user even noted that "it doesn't take long to realize that it makes it so much more a pleasant experience and actually a better workout overall." 

The app's Journey workouts, which take you on a virtual tour of locations worldwide, are also a big hit, with many reviewers requesting more destinations to explore. While most owners appreciate the app's strength training and yoga workouts, some commented that they're a bit too 'light' or entry-level, particularly if you already have some experience.

Critical reviewers often mention the overall price of the machine and membership. While they understand that a premium machine commands a higher price, they take issue with the high monthly membership cost. Still, most Hydrow owners feel that the rower helps them achieve their fitness goals in a fun, accessible way.

Hydrow review: verdict

You'll need plenty of space for the Hydrow as the machine isn't foldable, and you have to shell out extra for an upright storage kit if you want to free up some floor space. Whether you choose to take on a daily rowing workout, a bodyweight strength session, or a yoga class, you can access the virtual and on-demand workouts from the Hydrow's display or on your smartphone.

As sessions are motivational and fun, we found this makes it easy to turn using the rower into a habit. The instructors help, too, with their jargon-free explanations and accessible routines. Handily, if you need to cancel your subscription, the Hydrow switches to a Just Row mode, so your investment doesn't go to waste.

There's no denying that the Hydrow is an expensive rowing machine. You'll need to invest almost $2,500/£2,000 for the hardware and pay close to $40/£32 per month for membership—it's a lot. But in return, you get a high-quality rowing machine that's simple to assemble, quick to clean, and easy to use, which will help you enjoyably reach your fitness goals.

Also consider

1. Echelon Smart Rower

The Echelon Smart Rower is functionally very similar to the Hydrow; a high-quality machine with magnetic resistance and app-based workouts. However, the Echelon rower is less expensive and has a foldable design and handlebar controls. There's no display, so you'll need your smartphone, and the app could use a bit of work. Still, once you're in the middle of a workout, you won't notice these minor niggles. 

2. ProForm 750R rower

The ProForm 750R rower is an excellent alternative to the Hydrow machine if you like to keep your workout varied. It doesn't have an integrated display, so you'll need your phone or a tablet to access your virtual workouts. However, it uses the iFit platform, which works with NordicTrack and ProForm equipment, including rowers, treadmills, indoor bikes, and dumbbells. 

The ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill is an affordable mid-range running machine with a ton of features and workouts (via the iFit app) to suit all fitness levels. 

The treadmill is compact and well-designed, with a responsive 22-inch color touchscreen, lots of space for water bottles and phones, and a two-speed fan. Like some of the best treadmills, it’s kind of retro in design, a little bit 80s, but that’s not a bad thing.

As with many smart treadmills, you will need the iFit app to access the best online content ($39 / £29 a month). However, the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill still works without this, as it has the standard Manual setting.

We did feel it was lacking a USB charging point, and the handrails are a little short, but we don’t have any other complaints about this sturdy little machine.

In this ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill review, we’ll tell you more about its design, features, and performance as well as why it deserves its spot as one of the best exercise machines to lose weight. 

ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill: price & features

The ProForm 9000 Treadmill is available now for around $1,999 / £1,999.

If you’re the kind of person who loves variety and pushing yourself with different types of training, then you’re going to love the huge amount of live and on-demand classes available via the iFit app on this treadmill (subscription needed, from $39 USD / £29). 

Of course, you can hit Manual and start running without the app, but you’ll miss out on all the high-tech tracking and awesome iFit virtual content. iFit classes are similar to Peloton ones: they feature knowledgeable, high-energy instructors who provide a home fitness studio experience.

You can download programs straight to the treadmill’s console, go on actual ‘real life’ runs with Google Maps, share your data, and compete against other iFit members. The iFit profile handily keeps tabs on all your workouts so you can track your progress over time and see how well you’re doing.

As expected, you can track all the main stats like time, distance, speed, incline, heart rate, and calories burned. The ProForm 9000 Treadmill also has a really impressive incline and decline range, from -3% to 12%, and you can run up to 22kmh/ 12mph if your legs can keep up!

ProForm Pro 9000: set up

This treadmill is one of the fastest to assemble among treadmills I’ve reviewed. It comes with clear set up instructions but because it’s quite big (64 x 73.5 x 35 inches) and weighs 194lbs / 88kg, it’s a two-person job.

Once assembled, it’s a sturdy and well-made product with an ergonomic design that looks good in any room.

The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill comes with lots of safety features including a four-digit passcode (ideal if you have kids or pets). It also has a safety screen timeout, which will automatically reset the display if it isn’t used for a certain amount of time. When we tested the emergency stop button, it slowed the belt speed quickly but not too suddenly. There’s a safety key too, for added reassurance.

ProForm Pro 9000: design

The ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill is compact with a minimalist, slightly retro design. It reminds us a bit of the treadmills that were around in the 80s, but that’s not a bad thing. It comes with a large 22-inch color screen, which is nice and bright – but we found it slow to respond on occasion.

The multi-speed fan offers a nice breeze, and we love how easy it is to navigate between workout stats and other core metrics like time, speed, distance, calories and heart rate. There’s space for two big water bottles in the holders on either side of the display, and you can also use this area to put your smartphone.

The quick-speed and quick-incline controls make it super easy to adjust settings and mean that you’re not distracted from your walk or run when you’re trying to change modes. The handles have inbuilt electrocardiogram (EKG) touch sensors for heart rate monitoring which are also compatible with Bluetooth wireless chest straps (not included with the treadmill).

Love music while working out? You’ll be pleased to know the ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill comes with two 2-inch speakers and an MP3/iPod compatible music port. What is slightly baffling is that this won’t actually charge your device, and the treadmill doesn’t come with a separate USB charging port, which seems like an oversight – you have to use Bluetooth to access your music.

If you’re short on space, you can fold the ProForm 9000 Treadmill away and it has a shock-assisted lift mechanism to help with the process. The cushioning system built into the 60 x 20-inch running deck helps reduce the impact on joints, and it’s good and springy to run on. The anti-slip grip on the side of the deck is a nice safety feature.

ProForm Pro 9000: performance

The ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill offers a smooth running experience thanks to its 3.6 continuous horsepower (CHP) motor, which is strong enough to withstand light or intense training.

This is a quiet treadmill, a good choice for anyone who lives in an apartment block or shared accommodation. We measured 60 decibels (dB) during a one-mile walk, which equates to ‘normal’ conversation. We tried various speeds and inclines and declines on a 2.5-mile jog, and the noise levels increased to 75 dB, which is about the same sound level as a vacuum cleaner. Even while running full pelt, the decibel counter measured 80dB – similar to the noise a blender makes.

The tread belt is well-cushioned and feels similar to running on a road. The two-speed fan is efficient and very welcome during faster runs. 

ProForm Pro 9000: user reviews

The Proform Pro 9000 currently has 4.1 out of five stars on BestBuy. Happy customers praise the machine's big screen, its powerful motor and the classes available on iFit. Some customers have commented that the in-built fans aren't powerful enough and that the speakers are poor quality. But reviews are overwhelmingly positive for the machine.

ProForm Pro 9000: verdict

Should you buy the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill? If you are looking for a big range of virtual classes, and an impressive incline/decline range, this is a good choice.

The iFit app provides a massive selection of workouts to keep you motivated and challenged, and the treadmill’s powerful motor makes for a smooth and quiet run even on a high incline.

It’s a bit annoying that ProForm didn’t include a USB charging point on the treadmill, and you have to buy a separate heart rate strap if you want to use the heart rate monitor, which comes at an extra cost. But for the price, this is still a good quality treadmill that offers an immersive running experience for all fitness levels.

Also consider

Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill

A budget-friendly option is the Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill ($369.99/ £329.99). It's really compact, so better suited for walking or light jogging, but it has a powerful motor that can reach speeds of up to 7.5mph so it is possible to run on it, too. It's also foldable so you can store it away when not in use - handy for those short of space.

In this NordicTrack X22i treadmill review, we will tell you whether this running machine is worth the money. 

On paper, it makes a good case as one of the best treadmills, but If you’re looking to buy a treadmill, things to consider include price, design, features, performance, and of course noise levels.

Firstly, what are the benefits of running? It’s a great cardiovascular exercise and is as good for the mind as it is for the body. And if you want to know how to start running, then the this treadmill can help motivate you to train more regularly from the comfort of your home.

 With its powerful but quiet 4.0 CHP motor, impressive incline/decline range, and excellent virtual content, we think the NordicTrack X22i is a solid investment for runners of all abilities. Just make sure you have space to house it, as it’s a beast of a treadmill.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: price & features

The NordicTrack X22i treadmill is available now for around £3,299/ $2,999.

One of our favorite things about the NordicTrack X22i treadmill, apart from its awesome design and state-of-the-art tech, is the amazing virtual content that comes with it.

There are 40 pre-set workouts in the treadmill, and an iFit subscription will give you access to daily live classes and over 16,000 on-demand ones! There’s a 30-day free iFit membership included with your purchase, after that it costs $39 / £28 a month.

The treadmill will still work in manual mode without an iFit subscription, but you’ll miss out on all the fancy tracking tools, live workouts, and scenic runs. iFit turns a standard treadmill into your own personal fitness studio. Enjoy HIIT classes, strength training, yoga, and mindfulness as well as real-life runs with Google Maps; compete with friends and customize your training to meet your fitness goals.

The impressive 22-inch HD touchscreen is responsive with crisp, bright graphics and tracks all the usual core metrics: incline, time elapsed and remaining, calories, distance, vertical feet climbed, speed, pace (minutes/mile), lap number, and heart rate. 

Another impressive feature is the 4.0 CHP motor, which has continuous power even at the highest incline of 40%. If you’re a fan of interval training and hill climbs, the incline and decline range (-5 to +40%) is going to be a big pull for you and worth the price tag alone.

The 40% incline makes a walk or run feel like climbing a flight of stairs, so you can even use the treadmill in a similar way to a Stairmaster or an elliptical trainer.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: set up and usability

The NordicTrack X22i is pretty easy to set up - it will take around 45 minutes to do so. It’s a big machine (81 x 39 x 76 inches) and heavy, too (505lbs / 230kg), so it’s a two-person job to assemble it safely.

This premium, gym-standard running machine has a huge 22-inch touchscreen with two speakers and two fans. The treadmill has an impressive incline and decline range, (-5% to 40%), with smooth and quiet transitions. Safety features include an emergency stop button and a safety key. 

To start a run or walk, simply hit START, or tap the touchscreen to choose a live or on-demand workout (via the iFit app). The NordicTrack X22i treadmill has a powerful 4.0 continuous horsepower (CHP) motor and 2.5-inch rear rollers so it’s really quiet (more on that later). The one-touch controls make it really easy to adjust your speed from 0 to 12mph (22kph) as well as alter the incline/decline.

An added bonus is that you can customize the console height so that the display, heart rate sensors, and fan are in the perfect position for you.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: design

We’ll be honest; the NordicTrack X22i is a big machine! It wouldn’t be out of place in a gym, and it requires a large space to house it, so bear that in mind before you buy. 

The tread deck itself is roomy with a 22 x 60-inch belt, which is thick and well-cushioned. It’s got a great springiness thanks to the inbuilt FlexSelect Cushioning system. We’d say this makes it feel like running on a firm road, so less jarring on the joints.

One of our favorite features of the NordicTrack X22i treadmill is the massive 22-inch touchscreen, which is intuitive and simple to use. The one-touch controls make it really easy to customize your workout. There are also two big speakers and dual fans built into the front of the console, and space for two water bottles or a smartphone.

There are lots of handrails to choose from on the NordicTrack X22i treadmill – two either side of the console and two above the main deck. If you’re a fan of heart rate monitoring, you can use the iFit Bluetooth chest strap (sold separately) to keep track of this.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: performance

The NordicTrack X22i is a highly sophisticated treadmill that is a joy to walk and run on. Interval training fans will enjoy the vast incline/decline range. This kind of workout is excellent for using muscles in different ways to help tone and define them. With this treadmill, you can enjoy scenic path runs, integrate strength training, and even do yoga and mindfulness classes, alongside the awesome live and on-demand studio classes (iFit subscription needed).

The powerful 4.0 CHP motor, which can support top speeds of 12mph, is surprisingly quiet thanks to its ‘WhisperQuiet’ technology. The NordicTrack X22i treadmill has ‘quiet drive incline tech’, according to the brand, which is designed to make quieter and more accurate incline and decline adjustments. It’s definitely one of the quietest and smoothest treadmills we’ve ever used.

We tested noise levels with a decibel (dB) counter and we have to say, we were impressed. During a one-mile walk, we measured 60 dB (the same as a conversation), while a 2.5-mile jog at a leisurely pace with varying speeds and inclines was 75 dB – similar to the noise of a vacuum cleaner.

A max speed run as you’d expect cranked the noise levels up to 80 dB, the equivalent of a lawnmower. We also tried out a glorious guided hiking workout in Ecuador (with stunning views and a warm and encouraging instructor), which also clocked in at 80 dB.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: user reviews

We couldn't find any user reviews of this machine – NordicTrack actually hides most user reviews on its website, instead displaying the overwhelmingly-positive reviews for the iFit app.

Collated Google reviews give the machine 4.5 out of 5 stars, but a lot of these reviews are influenced by the speed of delivery and quality of the installation, so they're not a fair reflection of the machine itself.

NordicTrack X22i treadmill review: verdict

Should you buy the NordicTrack X22i? If you’ve got the budget, absolutely! This is one of the most sophisticated treadmills on the market, and you are spoilt for choice with features and workouts. 

Well-designed, quiet, intuitive to use, it provides a satisfying running experience for all fitness abilities. If you don’t need the incline/decline range you could save yourself some money by buying a cheaper machine like the ProForm Premier 9000, which is a good mid-range treadmill with the same access to iFit content.

But if you have the space and money, the NordicTrack X22i treadmill is a solid investment that you will enjoy for years to come.

Also consider

Urevo Foldi 1 Folding Treadmill

We were very impressed with this little starter machine, which only costs £329.99 / $369.99. It's small but has a powerful and quiet 2.5 CHP motor, which can reach speeds of up to 7.5mph, so you can do some speedy walking or light jogs on the machine. It's also foldable so a good option for people short on space.