Running deals

Competition or training shoes

The difference lies firstly in what is hidden in the sole. The adidas Adizero Adios Pro is a competition shoe: its Lightstrike Pro foam, soft and very responsive, is stiffened throughout by carbon rods, the EnergyRods, which guide the roll and return energy at fast paces. It weighs around 200 grams with a six-millimetre drop. The Puma Deviate Nitro follows the same logic, with a carbon plate embedded in the Nitro foam.

The adidas Adizero Evo SL uses the Lightstrike Pro foam without the rigid rods. It retains the sensation of bounce while remaining more natural and forgiving, making it a fast training shoe, suitable for interval training as well as tempo runs. Shoes with plates put more strain on the calves and the Achilles tendon, and their very lightweight foams wear out faster: many runners reserve them for races and a few key sessions, leaving the rest of the volume to a training pair.

Maximum cushioning and versatile models

For long, slow runs, cushioning takes priority over responsiveness. The Nike Vomero layers two foams: a very soft layer of ZoomX underfoot, and a firmer and more durable layer of ReactX in contact with the ground. With a thick sole and a drop of around ten millimetres, it is particularly suitable for heel strikers and those who are easy on their tendons. The adidas Hyperboost seeks the same comfort.

The adidas Runfalcon and Duramo form the entry-level: simple, lightweight, and versatile shoes, ideal for getting back into running, short jogs, and active walking. The ATR version of the Runfalcon adds a more rugged sole for trails. The children’s and baby versions of the Duramo follow the same construction in their sizes.

Drop and sole height

The drop is the height difference between the heel and the forefoot. A high drop, around ten millimetres, relieves the Achilles tendon and supports heel striking, while a low drop, of four to six millimetres, encourages a midfoot strike but puts more strain on the calves. A sudden change in drop is a classic source of pain: the transition should occur over several weeks, alternating with the old pair.

The sole height, or stack, measures the total thickness under the heel. For road running, World Athletics limits this height to 40 millimetres for shoes used in competition, which is why the thickest racing models stop just below this. Training shoes are not subject to this limit and may exceed it, prioritising comfort over speed.

GPS watches, trail, and apparel

Garmin watches are grouped into families based on their use. The Forerunner range is dedicated to running: pace, heart rate, training plans, and recovery analysis. The Instinct range, with a reinforced casing, is aimed at the outdoors and prioritises robustness and battery life. For a road runner, an entry-level Forerunner already covers the essentials.

In terms of trail running, shoes stand out with their deeper lugs for mud and protection against stones. Running apparel, including adidas Adizero or Breeze tops and technical t-shirts, focuses on lightweight meshes that wick away sweat rather than absorbing it like cotton.

Good deals from other sports

Each sport has its own selection. Football brings together jerseys, balls, and training gear, lifestyle includes everyday sandals and sneakers, and fitness features strengthening equipment, useful as a supplement to running.

Outdoor activities are found in outdoor, indoor sports in indoor, and golf has its own page. Everything is gathered on the good deals page.

Other annual events

The clearance sales feature end-of-line items, often excellent models from the previous generation, while promotions include discounted items. The new arrivals showcase the latest shoes, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours.

Major events follow a stable order: the Black Friday in late autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, and then the French Days in spring.

Frequently asked questions

What drop should I choose for running shoes?

A high drop, around ten millimetres, relieves the calves and suits runners who heel strike. A low drop encourages a midfoot stride but requires a gradual transition to protect the Achilles tendons.

What is a carbon plate shoe?

A shoe like the adidas Adizero Adios Pro combines a very responsive foam, the Lightstrike Pro, with carbon rods, the EnergyRods, which stiffen the sole and return energy at fast paces. It is reserved for races and speed sessions.

How should I dress to run in winter?

Layer a breathable layer against the skin, a technical insulating top, and a lightweight windbreaker, dressing as if it's ten degrees warmer. A hat and thin gloves help limit heat loss.

Is a GPS watch useful for beginners?

Not essential, but it helps in monitoring effort through pace and heart rate, and tracking progress. A simple watch with GPS and wrist-based heart rate is more than enough for the first few months.

How many pairs of running shoes do I need for training?

A versatile pair is enough to start. Once running three times a week, alternating between two models—one with cushioning for easy runs and a lighter one for speed—spreads out the stresses and extends the lifespan of the shoes.