SPORTS AWARDS 2016

Every year, we put the latest crop of shoes, apparel, swimwear and gadgets to test. Check out this season’s top performers.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
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Every year, we put the latest crop of shoes, apparel, swimwear and gadgets to test. Check out this season’s top performers.

At Shape, we are on a constant quest to improve your fitness wardrobe – not just to make you look good, but also to turn your workout from meh to wow. Yes, wearing the right stuff can make a huge difference to your get-fit routine.

Think about it: What if you had a pair of well-cushioned running shoes that would push you to clock more kilometres, supportive bottoms that let you finish faster, a comfy bra that makes you want to go all out, and a trusty activity tracker that helps you train more efficiently? This year, we reviewed close to 100 shoes, tops, bottoms, sports bras, swimsuits and gadgets, to see which ones are worth shelling out for.

After a month of running, cycling, swimming, HIIT, dancing and jumping around, we present these 19 stellar products that earned our testers’ sweaty stamp of approval.

Slip into these shoes – you’ll want to go farther and faster.
Slip into these shoes – you’ll want to go farther and faster.
TAP FOR GALLERY
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BEST FOR SPEED MIZUNO WOMEN’S WAVE SAYONARA 3

($189) With responsive mid-foot cushioning, these are go-to shoes for sprints. Large, open mesh around the front keeps feet aired and dry.

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BEST ALLROUNDER MIZUNO WOMEN’S WAVE RIDER 19

($189) The flexible soles and soft cushioning gave our tester one of her most enjoyable runs ever.

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BEST FOR STABILITY NIKE AIR ZOOM STRUCTURE 19

($199) Those with wide feet will love the roomy toe box. The medial post also helps to prevent feet from rolling inwards during a run.

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BEST CUSHIONING NEW BALANCE VAZEE BREATHE

($169) Firm cushioning with lots of rebound helped our tester clock a longer-than-usual run, while the perforated upper half kept her feet well-ventilated.

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BEST FOR MINIMALIST RUNNING ASICS 33-FA

($169) Our tester loved the sock-like fit and how this shoe gave her a good feel of the ground, while providing gentle cushioning.

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BEST GYM SHOES SKECHERS GOFIT 3

($139) Flexible, grippy soles make these superb for interval training and dance fitness workouts.

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When you put these on, there’s no fuss – just plenty of support, breathability and freedom to move.

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BEST HIGH-SUPPORT SPORTS BRA ADIDAS WOMEN SUPERNOVA

($65) Our tester’s rave: “This helped to reduce bounce without being constrictive. It didn’t feel stuff y during my run, and it didn’t cut into my shoulder blades like some high-support bras do. Love the great coverage too. Must buy!”

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SPECIAL MENTION SPORTS BRA TRIUMPH TRIACTION SPORTS TOP

($79.90) This bra comes with adjustable straps for a customised fit, back hook-and-eye closure for easy removal, and cushioned shoulder straps for extra comfort. Said our tester: “I felt at ease and my boobs were adequately supported during my gym workouts. Every girl should own one of these!”

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BEST SLEEVED TOP SKECHERS GODRI SHORT SLEEVE TOP

($59) Lightweight and breathable, with mesh sleeves, this top will prevent you from overheating under harsh workout conditions.

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BEST SLEEVELESS TOP COTTON ON BODY TRAINING TANK TOP

($24.95) “Top marks for the soft and airy material! The wide arm holes let me swing my arms freely without overexposing myself,” our tester said.

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BEST MEDIUMSUPPORT SPORTS BRA NIKE PRO CLASSIC

($59) Stretchy jersey fabric lets you move freely, and wicks away moisture quickly so you’ll stay dry.

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BEST RUNNING SHORTS ADIDAS WOMEN’S RUNNING M10 GRAPHIC SHORTS

($45) These snazzy, moisture-wicking shorts have a hidden drawcord for a secure fit, plus an inner pocket in which to stash your keys.

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BEST TRAINING SHORTS ZOOT WOMEN’S PERFORMANCE TRI 6 INCH SHORTS

($119, Outdoor Venture) Great for running, swimming and cycling, this quick-drying bottom has compression panels that support the thigh muscles, and a wide, flat waistband that hugs the hips without nipping skin.

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BEST LONG TRAINING BOTTOMS REEBOK ONE SERIES ACTIVCHILL CRAZY CAMO TIGHTS

($99, Stadium) This fitted bottom didn’t budge a bit during our tester’s twists and jumps during her HIIT workout. Plus, the breathable fabric kept her dry throughout.

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BEST LONG RUNNING BOTTOMS NIKE EPIC LUX WOMEN’S RUNNING CROP

($149) Our tester swears by its performance: “Thanks to the snug, supportive fit, I ran faster and for longer than usual. The mesh fabric behind the knees helped me stay cool and dry.”

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BEST TWO-PIECE SWIMWEAR BILLABONG SAHARA SEA CROP TOP AND TROPIC BOTTOM

($59.90 for top; $45.90 for bottom) Gorgeous floral print aside, the high-neck top prevents nip slips and gives your girls sufficient support, while the bottom rests snugly on your hips.

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BEST ONE-PIECE SWIMWEAR SPEEDO FIT PINNACLE XBACK SWIMSUIT

($95.90, Stadium) In our tester’s words: “A perfect blend of style and function. The design made my waist look slimmer, compression panels at the obliques reminded me to engage my core, and the cross-back straps enabled me to swim freely while holding the swimsuit in place.”