Review: I put five pairs of high-end runners to the test

Journalist Glenn Kelly has put some high-end trainers to the rest in the run up to Christmas. Below are his top picks for brands displaying style, substance and sustainability.

With just a few weeks to go before you know what, wives, parents and partners everywhere are asking that big question: what do I get the man of the house for Christmas?

Yes, I hear ya, you have no idea! And you know he won't bother his backside telling you.

Well, lucky for you I am one of the aforementioned lazy sods, and I will be offering you all the advice you need to pick the best trainers for the man in your life.

I have done the testing on each of these so all you have to do is sit back and find your match.

Best for style and substance

Salomon XT-4 Aurora Borealis
Workingclassheroes.co.uk, €190

Founded in 1947 by François Salomon in the heart of the French Alps, Salomon have long been a go-to for outdoor enthusiasts, but with the XT range they are now combining this durable, cutting-edge technology with street-style looks.

The XT-4 is a superb shoe that looks stunning in the Aurora Borealis herb colour - as tested. I found they grabbed attention from passers-by and friends alike, as they are less frequently seen compared to popular high street brands. Difficult to come-by, but I managed to source mine from workingclassheroes.co.uk who also offer a wider range of the XT series if required.

They are on the snug side so it may be necessary to go half a size larger, but otherwise they do pretty much everything. Look great in town, stability and grip for a mountain hike and with their quick-lace system, they are the next easiest shoe to slip on and off apart from a slide-on.

These will be sure to bring a smile to whoever gets treated to them on Christmas morning.

Best for the Elite Runner

Nike Alphafly 3
Nike.com/ie €309.99

These shoes are not for the faint hearted. Designed with a carbon plate to allow for the maximum energy response, they are aimed at getting you through runs - including marathons - in the quickest time possible.

They do feel quite odd for the first couple of runs but soon break in. I wouldn’t suggest them for a potter around town, but if your loved one is serious about his running then I can assure you these will fit the bill perfectly - if you can swallow the price.

Best cushioned support

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
Elverys.ie €200

Speaking as someone who suffers from Achilles tendonitis, it can be a nightmare getting the right support from a trainer. There are many other runners out there with the same problem and this is where the Nimbus 26 comes in.

PureGEL™ technology and soft FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam means you’ll experience incredible comfort each time you want to run even further and I can vouch for this.

It is not strictly a running shoe either, and works just as well for popping to the shop as out for a 5km thanks to that cloud-like cushioning.

It may look a little bulky for some, but I love the looks and some great colourways to match. Plus, you get that durability that only Asics can offer.

Best affordable runner

Adidas Adizero SL2
Lifestylesports.com €90 (was €130)

These are a real jack of all trades. Superb comfort and excellent energy return thanks to borrowing Lightstrike Pro superfoam from previous models that were much more expensive in the range.

They also look really cool in the black and yellow colourway and wouldn’t look out of place with jeans a t-shirt. The design is similar to the shoes worn throughout the Paris Olympics by track stars and will earn some kudos amongst your running peers.

At this price they are a steal but I would recommend sizing up as they are quite narrow.

Best Waterproof trainer

Salomon XT-6 GTX
Brown Thomas, €200

Given our wet weather throughout the year, I always like to have a pair of waterproof trainers in my armoury.

No longer does this mean a stodgy pair of Wellington boots; this slick pair of runners is just as stylish as the non-waterproof versions.

If you are after style then you have come to the right place. Looking around magazines and fashion shoots over the last 12 months you will see the XT-6 featured time and time again as they go with almost any casual outfit.

Perhaps not advertised as a hiking shoe but more street-style, I took them on many walks with my dog over hills as well as tarmac surfaces and they didn’t give me any grief no matter the terrain.

Pricey, yes, but one of the very best trainers you can get and sure to be a Christmas treat to whoever receives them.