A different kind of injury: a personal account of dealing with depression

Article by Joost De Raeymaeker

It’s September, Suicide Prevention Month. Runners are no different than other people and can suffer from depression. It can sneak up on you and upend your life and your running. As a runner, a way to look at depression might be to face it like an injury, but instead of a muscle, a bone or a tendon needing special attention and care, it’s your mental state, your head and general health that needs help to get better. 

I wrote this small essay, talking about my own recent history dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. It’s in no way complete or as detailed as it might be, but I hope it can help runners and people in general out there who are reading this. If an only a single person decides to ask for help after reading it, it will have fulfilled its purpose.

 

Testbericht: adidas Ultraboost 5 - Ultra bequem, ultra stabil und überraschend lauffreudig - Ein richtiger Laufschuh! 8 Vergleiche

Artikel von Nils Scharff

adidas Ultraboost 5 (180 €)

Einleitung

Nachdem der ikonische adidas Ultraboost im letzten Jahr zum zehnjährigen Jubiläum eine Rundumerneuerung erfahren hat, legt adidas in diesem Jahr noch einen drauf! Headliner ist nach wie vor das neue Lightboost-Dämpfungsmaterial - bzw. vor allem, dass der Ultraboost jetzt über sehr viel mehr davon verfügt. Satte 9mm stehen im neuen Ultraboost 5 zusätzlich zur Verfügung, woraus eine Stapelhöhe von 29mm im Vorfuß und 39mm im Fersenbereich resultieren. Die entsprechenden 10mm Sprengung sind typisch für den Ultraboost und bleiben uns auch in diesem Jahr erhalten. 

Camelbak X RECCO Live Demonstration: Wide Area, Helicopter Searchable, Low Cost, Search and Rescue Reflectors

Camelbak X RECCO: Wide Area Helicopter Searchable, Low Cost Reflectors for Search and Rescue

Camelbak and RECCO invited RTR to go on a live demonstration flight of RECCO’s new helicopter flown detectors during UTMB week. 

When combined with the low cost RECCO reflectors now incorporated mostly into winter ski apparel but now also available on the Camelbak Apex Pro Run Vest or standalone attached to a pack, this new system can deliver rapid detection of lost or injured outdoor enthusiasts in all seasons. 

Brooks Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Review: 3 Comparisons

Article by Allison Valliere

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 ($140)

Introduction

The Adrenaline 24 has been completely overhauled and improved, with a revamped upper, outsole and the addition of DNA Loft v3, replacing the v2 of version 23, while retaining the Guide Rails and stability that defines the Adrenaline GTS.

Being a nurse (as well as a runner) spending 8-10 hours on my feet each work day is what initially drew me to the Adrenaline when I first tried the Adrenaline 22, as the Danskos I have been wearing for years were taking their toll on my feet and especially my heels (I think I had a pesky case of Plantar Fasciitis).  Wearing the Adrenaline 22 and 23 at work helped to relieve my PF and the 24 is now performing that task equally well, if not better.

Pros: 

Comfort, cushion, stability, durability, support for long days on my feet.

Cons: 

None

Brooks Divide 5 Multi Tester Review: Value, Comfort, Versatility 4 Comparisons

Article by John Tribbia and Jeff Valliere

Brooks Divide 5 ($110)

Pros: 

Fit, Versatility, Comfort :John T 

Value, comfort, fit, cushioning, versatility, refined upper, traction: Jeff V

4mm more stack height of cushion with only a minor 0.2 oz increase in weight due to new foam 

Cons: 

All black colorway is hot in the summer sun: John 

Hard to nitpick this shoe at the price, but a slight bump in price is the only drawback I can come up with.Jeff: 

Introduction

John: The Brooks Divide 5 marks the latest iteration for the brand's road-to-trail crossover model. Building on the success of its predecessors, the Divide 5 boasts a refined design and upgraded cushioning.

Central to the shoe's appeal is the revamped DNA LOFT v2 midsole. This updated cushioning system provides a softer, more responsive feel compared to its predecessor, making it a comfortable choice for both road and trail running. The Divide 5 also maintains the series' signature road-shoe inspired fit, offering a wider toe box and accommodating midfoot for a comfortable and familiar experience.

With a focus on sustainability, Brooks has incorporated recycled materials into the outsole, demonstrating a commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide Review: Max Cushion, Max Fun, Max Comfort

Article by Sam Winebaum

S/Lab Ultra Glide ($250)

Introduction

Salomon introduced the  2025 S/Lab Ultra Glide at UTMB positioning their most max cushion (41mm heel / 35mm forefoot) to date trail runner as a shoe for long hours on the trail at more moderate paces. Salomon’s goal was to create “run in comfort from mile 1”. 

It is not so much an elite ultra racer, as S/Lab shoes traditionally have been often specifically inspired by the needs of certain athletes, but is intended as a shoe for those out for 30 to 40 hours during a hundred miler. It follows the similar mid pack focused S/Lab Spectur 2 for road as a state of the art racer/trainer for the not so fast, although some Salomon elites raced it a UTMB. Please read on for the shoe details (many!) and the results of our testing.

ASICS Metafuji Trail Multi Tester Review 6 Comparisons

Article by Mike Postaski and Jeff Valliere

ASICS Metafuji Trail ($250)

Introduction

Mike P: Asics enters the carbon-plated, high-stack superfoamed trail super-shoe fray with a brand new model - the Metafuji Trail. If you’ve happened across the specs already - yes, you read them right. The stack is absolutely MASSIVE - at 44/39mm underfoot, the highest of any trail super shoe that I’m aware of. Yes, they do feel that high. 

As an entry in the trail super shoe market, you have the requisite carbon fiber plate - this one being full-length, with no mention of any splits or forks. The midsole is also the requisite mix of superfoams - FF Turbo and FF Blast+, which enables the super low weight (9.5 oz, 270g in my US 10.0). This combination of carbon fiber, superfoams, stack, and weight puts the Metafuji Trail in the arena with the top ultra trail racers on the market today. But the question is - do they really play in the same “arena”?

Pros:

Massive stack - no lack of cushion/protection Mike P/Jeff V

Unparalleled forefoot cushion Mike P/Jeff V

Well fitted, secure upper, nice forefoot width Mike P/Jeff V

Incredible light weight given the huge stack Mike P/Jeff V

Cons:

Unstable under the heel, likely not for heel-strikers Mike P/Jeff V

Not for slower paces Mike P/Jeff V

Big stack requires break-in  Mike P/Jeff V

Lace rail setup is not ideal Mike P

Lugs seem to be too spaced out for great traction Mike P

Hoka Rincon 4 Multi Tester Review 3 Comparisons

Article by Matt Kolat ,Peter Stuart, and Ben David 

Hoka Rincon 4 (€132, £109.99, $125 USD)

Pros

• Low price for a versatile trainer Matt/Peter/Ben

• Stiff/firm foam (may also be a disadvantage for some) Matt/Peter

• Styling (subjective)

• Low weight

• Can be a nice workhorse Peter/Ben

Cons

• Very short tongue

• Very different shoe compared to previous editions (this may also be an advantage)

• Sizing and fit are a major issue: Peter/Ben

Outdoor Vitals Sun Hoodies Review: Altitude Synthetic vs. Tern Merino Hoodie

Article by Markus Zinkl

Tern Merino Sun Hoodie ($84.97)

Weight: 144g / 5.1 oz (Size M)

Fabric: 115 GSM NuYarn™ Merino Wool blend (58% merino, 42% nylon)

UPF Rating: 36+

Fit: Close

Seams & Sleeves: True Flat-Lock Seams, Raglan Sleeves

Altitude Sun Hoodie ($49.97)

Fabric: 80 GSM 100% polyester with FUZE™ Antimicrobial Treatment 

Weight 2023 Version: 102g / 3.59 oz (Size M)

Weight 2024 Version: 109g / 3.84 oz (Size M)

UPF Rating: Inconclusive, but tested extensively in high elevation sunlight with no sign of UV ray penetration.

Fit: Close

Seams & Sleeves: True Flat-Lock Seams, Raglan Sleeves

Introduction

When it comes to sun hoodies, both the Tern Ultralight Merino Wool Hoodie and the Altitude Sun Hoodie from Outdoor Vitals offer unique features and benefits. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

Path Projects Round Up Review: Where Performance Meets Style

 Article by John Tribbia

Path Projects Round Up Review

When it comes to hitting the trails or pounding the pavement, you need gear that can keep up with your active lifestyle. But what if you want clothing that can seamlessly transition from rugged runs to everyday adventures? That's where Path Projects comes in.

Founded in 2018 by a group of athletes who were tired of not being able to find the perfect running shorts, Path Projects set out to create clothing that would bridge the gap between function and aesthetics.

They're committed to using innovative materials and thoughtful design in their gear. The result is a complete line of technical apparel for the modern endurance athlete. From sleek running shorts to versatile hoodies, Path Projects gear prioritizes performance without sacrificing style. 

For this review I tested several of their products, including: Pyrenees T19 Hoodie, Graves PX 7" Short, Linx PD Undershort Liner, and the Wadi Tee.

Testbericht: adidas Terrex Agravic Speed 5 Vergleiche

Artikel von Nils Scharff

Terrex Agravic Speed (180€)

Einleitung

Nils: Der adidas Terrex Agravic Speed ist ein leichter, gut gedämpfter Trail-Schuh, der sich am besten für schnelles Laufen auf weniger bis mäßig anspruchsvollem Gelände eignet. Er ist in meinem Verständnis ein direkter Nachfolger des viel gelobten adidas Terrex Speed Ultra, der in seiner leichten und minimalistischen Machart explizit für Höchstleistungen beim Western States 100 (- Meilenrennen) designt wurde. Der Terrex Agravic Speed will an die Erfolge seines Vorgängermodells anschließen und bringt bei ähnlichem Gewicht mehr Dämpfung und Schutz mit. Dies schafft er durch den Einsatz einer zweilagigen Mittelsohle, bestehend aus einem weicheren Kern aus Lightstrike Pro-Schaum (bekannt aus den adidas Wettkampfmodellen für die Straße), der von festerem Lightstrike-Schaum umgeben ist. Die Außensohle hat 3-4 mm tiefe Stollen und verwendet eine griffige Continental-Gummimischung. 

Das Obermaterial ist dünn, minimal, atmungsaktiv und eher reduziert, mit wenig Polsterung oder zusätzlichem Schutz. Ich konnte den Terrex Agravic Speed sowohl auf meinen heimischen Mittelgebirgstrails, als auch in den Osttiroler Alpen testen und werde euch im Folgenden meine Eindrücke schildern.