Strava's 2025 Year in Sport report reveals a surprising shift in the running shoe landscape. For the first time in years, the Nike Pegasus, a long-time favorite, has been dethroned by the Asics Novablast. This neutral daily trainer, now in its fifth iteration, offers a bouncy, versatile, and durable experience for various runs. The Novablast's midsole boasts an impressive 40.5mm of foam, contributing to its popularity. The report also highlights a trend towards max-cushioned running shoes, with the Novablast's latest iteration leading the way.
The Hoka Clifton, in its 10th iteration, secured third place overall, but UK athletes showed a different brand loyalty, making it the second most popular choice in the UK. The Clifton's spacious midfoot and forefoot design made it a comfortable companion for longer runs. Meanwhile, Apple has retained its top spot for the second year in a row, with Garmin closely following as the second most common device for workout recording. Coros emerged as the fastest-growing watch brand, catering to the demand for lighter and more affordable wearables. Oura and Whoop received honorable mentions for their non-watch wearables.
This report offers a fascinating insight into the preferences and trends of runners worldwide, challenging the notion of brand loyalty and the evolving nature of running gear.
