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Best lightweight trainers for men

Photo credit Brian Metzler
Photo credit Brian Metzler

We all have those trainers which are thrown on for regular training sessions, but when it comes to the all important race day, or those shorter and intense training sessions in dry conditions, carrying an extra 50grams on each foot should be avoided.

An average pair trainers will start at around 280grams and be quite unwieldy. Enter racing flats - a more minimal, lightweight and responsive trainer that could be anything from 160grams up to around 230 grams. The difference is astounding and you’ll be increasing the likelihood of achieving a personal best time.

New Balance 1400v6

Weight: 204g

Now in its sixth iteration, this newly updated version is a favourite amongst those looking to achieve their personal records, and if you’re a quick runner they should serve you well up to marathon distance. A larger 10mm drop, this could also be a good transitional option to replicate the feeling you’d likely have when using a more conventional bulkier trainer.

It’s also barefoot friendly so you can do without your socks, and weighing just 204grams, this is a sure fire winner this Summer, yet not too lightweight to leave you under cushioned.

£85 | New Balance | Buy it now

Asics Tartherrzeal 6

Weight: 160g

Although this is a phenomenally lightweight 160grams, you won’t feel like you’re running in just a pair of socks. Surprising well cushioned, your feet will feel well supported and with a drop of 10mm, you’ll be poised for a 5km or 10km personal best time in these. Thoroughbred racing machines, hold these back for dry conditions and race days.

£110 | Asics | Buy it now

On Adventure Cloudflash

Weight: 211g

On is a relatively new trainer brand out of Switzerland, and they offer a revolutionary cushioning system that is becoming increasingly popular. This particular model is best suited to racing - cushioning underfoot is towards the minimal end of things and they feel super responsive.

They have a super light mesh upper material, so they’re really breathable and their build quality is second to none. With a 5mm offset and weight of 211grams, these are a perfect balance between minimalist construction yet maintaining adequate support.

£160 | On Running | Buy it now

Brooks Hyperion

Weight: 181g

One of the lighter trainers in this selection at 181grams, these would be deemed a ‘racing flat’. They have a small drop (the offset between the heel and the toe) and are super lightweight, yet still feel sufficiently cushioned. The Hyperion has a really flexible and breathable upper, and good traction on the sole. A durable lightweight running shoe that neutral runners will be very happy with.

£90 | Brooks Running | Buy it now

Saucony Fastwitch 8

Weight: 183g

Weighing just 183grams, this incredibly lightweight trainer is ideal if you are looking for a personal record for your 5km, 10km or half marathon (unlikely longer distances than this). The mesh upper is particularly breathable and a great feature, yet you’ll still feel well supported and cushioned in this more minimal trainer. With 4mm offset, they encourage more forefoot style of running, and the sole is super grippy if you get caught in a shower.

£100 | Saucony | Buy it now

Hoka One One Cavu

Weight: 231g

Weighing in at 231 grams, these certainly aren’t the most minimal and lightest trainer. However, if you’re looking for that mix of support and cushioning without being bulky and unwieldy, the Cavus strike the perfect balance. They’re fantastically comfortable, and they’ll serve you well for everyday training as well as longer (marathon and even ultras) personal record attempts.

They have a drop of 4mm with 20mm of cushioning under the forefoot, so you’re encouraged to forefoot strike, and the upper part of the shoe is highly breathable.

€120 | Hoka One One | Buy it now

Adidas Adizero Adios 3

Weight: 229

A fantastic neutral running shoe that comes in at 229grams, an ideal harmony between lightweight and support. A nicely breathable upper and continental rubber sole provide really good traction too, these are ideal for marathons and even longer distances too. These will also serve you well for everyday training and provide an ideal crossover trainer for all your needs. Construction is good and materials durable, you'll get lots of loyal service from these.

£69 | Runners Need | Buy it now

Verdict:

The best all round lightweight trainer for this summer is the New Balance 1400v6. Striking a perfect balance between lightweight and minimalism, yet still being well cushioned and supportive. These are ideal for both regular training, as well as being a reliable partner for longer events such as a marathon or even 50km events.