ROAD TEST 2026 - THE BEST RUNNING, CYCLING AND TRIATHLON GEAR YOU CAN BUY
- 9 hours ago
- 15 min read
The ultimate guide to the best new running and cycling products to help you hit the road in comfort and style
Since when did we stop going to the pub and start joining run clubs? Is it an age thing, or are we all just realising that endorphins are easier (and cheaper) at the end of a run than at the bottom of a pint?
Whatever the reason, there's no escaping the fact that more of us seem to be jumping aboard the fitness bandwagon than ever before. We know how daunting it can be, turning up to the park and feeling like everyone else knows what they're doing while you're stumbling around in a pair of trainers you last used in your school PE lessons.
So, we're here to take the guess work out of buying the running, cycling and triathlon gear you need to get started this summer. Behold, the 2026 Road Test, featuring the new gear you need to hit the road in comfort and style!
PANDA OPTICS Multi-Sport Black sunglasses
RRP £109
They say:
Our Most Advanced Sports Sunglasses — Engineered for Performance, Comfort, and Versatility
Introducing the Multi Sport Sunglasses, the pinnacle of performance eyewear. Designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who demand the very best, these sunglasses combine cutting-edge materials with precision engineering to deliver unbeatable comfort, durability, and clarity in any condition.
The matt black TR90 frame is not only sleek and stylish, but also exceptionally lightweight, flexible, and impact-resistant. TR90 is a high-performance thermoplastic material known for its ability to bend without breaking—perfect for withstanding the demands of high-intensity sports and daily wear.
To ensure a secure and comfortable fit during even the most intense activities, the Multi Sport features a fully adjustable red nose grip and ultrasoft red temple grips. These grippy, anti-slip contact points conform to your face for enhanced stability, minimizing distractions so you can stay focused on your performance.
Our reviewer says:
The best thing that can be said for any pair of sports sunglasses is that you don't know they're there. If you're spending most of your run pushing your sunnies up your nose as soon as you get sweaty, they're more of a hindrance than a help. So, the best thing I can say about these Panda Optics Multi-Spout sunglasses is that they were completely unnoticeable. So light that they were barely there (they tip the scales at 29g), grippy enough to ensure they didn't move a millimetre for the entirety of my run, and with crisp optical lenses that enabled me to pick out every little detail on my route, these sunnies immediately became my go-to sports glasses.
Out of the box, they sat slightly too high in my nose for my liking - possibly a pay-off to their multi-sport use, as they're perfect for a head-down cycling position - but a little gentle manipulation of the rubber nose-piece allowed me to adjust them to a more suitable fit for a run. The thin arms mean they slip under a cycling helmet with ease and they're bendy and strong enough to cope with the rough-and-tumble that comes with sports: Rest assured, the Panda Optics will survive a fumble while you're cycling.
We tested the pictured mirrored red lenses, which were perfect for that high-sun heatwave we briefly encountered this summer. Also included in the box are amber lenses for lower light, and winter-friendly clear lenses. Replacements and additional blue lenses (perfect for foggy conditions and snow/water sports) are available at £18 (reduced to £15.30 at the time of writing). All in all, these are the perfect multi-sport, all-year round glasses.
BARBERBOSS Mini Massage Gun
RRP £22.99 They say:
This compact mini massage gun delivers targeted muscle relief and recovery at home, after workouts, or while travelling.
The built-in pressure sensor uses coloured indicator lights to help guide safe and effective massage pressure during use.
Choose between 5 adjustable intensity levels for customised comfort across different muscle groups and recovery needs.
Includes 4 interchangeable massage heads for targeted treatment of large muscles, joints, spine, and deep tissue areas.
Enjoy up to 120 minutes of cordless runtime from a USB rechargeable battery with clear charging indicator lights.
Lightweight and travel-friendly, this muscle massager includes a stylish storage pouch for convenient portability and storage.
Our reviewer says:
The Barberboss Mini Massage Gun packs quite a punch for something so small, and the cordless running time is ample for a few post-run recovery blasts over the course of a week before it needs to be recharged. We stuck mostly to the rounded, soft-cover head and found it did everything we needed and more. In truth, some of those other heads look a bit like torture devices and while we promise to give them a crack at some point, there's only SO far we're willing to go for our reviews.
For those who aren't already aware, massage guns are handheld massagers that aggressively vibrate back and forth, like a jackhammer. Apply them to your muscles and they can help create bloodflow, loosen tight fascia and even affect the nerves, reducing pain. Some athletes love them for warm ups, some use them for cool downs and recovery. I like a bit of both, so was very keen to try Barberboss' truly portable, mini-version.
One of the biggest surprises was the 'extra' mode, which doesn't seem to be mentioned in any of the Barberboss literature. Choose your power setting from 1-5 and the massage gun begins to pulse quite pleasingly over your aching muscles, but find the right spot and push the gun into your muscle and it reacts by flying into a double-speed frenzy. In truth, I suspect that's not an extra mode at all - that's the way it's meant to be used - but given that it was a surprise to me, it's worth pointing out to prospective buyers.
I love that the Barberboss can easily be thrown into a backpack or workout bag - or even a jacket pocket - meaning you can take this powerful little beast wherever you go. It's a cost of living crisis, guys, so unless you can afford to take a masseuse with you, I heartily recommend this brilliantly priced Mini Massage Gun.
O.R.S. Hydration Tablets
RRP £7.99
They say:
O.R.S Hydration Tablets are the only NHS-prescribed electrolyte tablets following WHO (World Health Organisation) hydration guidelines.
Expertly formulated by pharmacists to deliver a great-tasting, effective hydration solution.
Designed to tackle the universal challenge of balancing optimal hydration with refreshing flavour, these tablets offer a delicious science-backed answer trusted by healthcare professionals.
Our reviewer says:
With heatwaves becoming more common in the UK, hydration tablets should probably be a part of your summer routine whether you're exercising or not, but for runners and cyclists, they're an absolute must. We tried the lemon, blackberry and strawberry tablets and all were tasty enough to ensure that drinking them wasn't a chore. In fact, I'd go as far as saying that the strawberry was preferable to the cordial I usually buy from the supermarket and the ORS tablets became my go-to for the daily commute on hot days, too. Knowing they're packed with electrolytes and glucose put my mind at rest during longer training sessions and there's an added bonus that these tablets are great for kids in smaller doses, too - perfect for having around the house on sweltering days or when the little ones are sick. They've already become a staple of my daily routine.
PROVIZ Running Hydration Vest
RRP £34.99
They say:
With temperatures rising across the UK this summer, fitness experts are weighing in on whether it's safe to run during a heatwave and, if so, what precautions runners should take.
It is likely most fitness enthusiasts will end up dehydrated from training in the UK heatwave. The NHS shares that on a usual day most people need between 1.5 and 2.5litres of fluid, which is equivalent to about six to eight glasses of water. However, extra fluid for runners is essential, particularly when sweating more than usual.
Proviz is the British sportswear brand leading in high-visibility and reflective apparel. Their Running Hydration Vest (£34.99) couldn’t be more of a fitness must-have this summer.
Proviz are urging runners to be sensible and safe this summer by always carrying water and hydration when out running. The breathable perforated material of their hydration vest is ideal for extra comfort on long runs, and it comes with a 450ml soft water bottle included, helping runners stay hydrated while on the move.
Our reviewer says:
It's somewhat fortuitous (or a sign of global warming) that our month of testing coincided with a pretty hellish heatwave that would normally have us cowering in a paddling pool instead of pounding the streets, but it does mean we've been able to really put the Proviz Hydration vest through its paces. We also hit the road in Malta (lucky us), so can vouch for the need to hydrate during a run.
We'll freely admit that adding another layer in sweltering temperatures is a little counterintuitive, but the Proviz vest is light enough that its benefits far outweighed any drawbacks.
The soft water bottle that sits in the chest pocket holds enough liquid for a mid-length run and features a leak-proof top that requires you to bite the lid to release any water. Crucially, it's at the perfect height for you to drink without removing the bottle, so there's no fumbling around while you're concentrating on your pace. And when you've drained the last drops from the bottle, the soft material is barely noticeable. No more carrying an empty water bottle for half a run.
Added extras on the Proviz vest are a series of lights and reflectors that'll take you safely through the winter months or late night training runs, and zippable pockets for mobile phones, keys and cards/wallets.
Sure, it could be a little lighter for the summer months (a full mesh material wouldn't go amiss here), but we can confidently say it survived the hottest weather our country has offered so far, and has become a staple of our running gear.
ENERTOR Running Insoles
RRP £40
They say:
Designed for and with elite runners, Enertor running insoles utilise our ground-breaking PX1 technology to:
Prevent and relieve injuries - Absorbs 51% of the force of each foot strike, decreasing the risk of injury.
Enhance energy return - Reduces fatigue enabling runners to run faster for longer.
Boost cushioning - Enhances comfort over long runs and muscle recovery.
Improve running economy - Lightweight material and innovative design enhance endurance
Our Enertor insoles also feature:
Slight raised heel - to aid tight muscles and keep the foot protected at point of highest impact
Drop point - to help reduce pain in the big toe or bunions
Met pad - at the forefoot to prevent and relieve pain
Cushioned arch support - to help lessen pronation and improve stability
Enertor insoles are made in Britain. They are designed to last. You can rely on yours for approximately 500 miles or 1 year.
They are suitable for:
Shoes with removable insoles
Neutral or supportive running shoes
Neutral runners or those who mildly pronate (not for those who supinate)
Our reviewer says:
While a recommendation from the fastest man on the planet carries a fair amount of weight, I'd probably argue that these inner soles are most likely to be bought by mid-level runners or beginners who can't afford to drop £250 on a new pair of running trainers. That's firmly where I sit, so I was intrigued to give them a try. Firstly, a heads-up, if you're looking to rejuvenate an old pair of kicks, the inner soles are thick and as such, my decades-old Nike Flyknits became a little snug as soon as I inserted these insoles. If you're heading out to run a Marathon, you might want to consider whether there's enough space left in the toebox or face a painful last few miles.
With that being said, they make a HUGE difference. My aforementioned trainers were tired and devoid of bounce, but the Enertor Running Insoles made them feel like new. The bounce was noticeable and I felt steadier on my feet from the very first run. This is down to Enertor's PX1 technology, which sees the soles change form during use. At 'rest', the soles are soft and flexible, but when you strike the floor during a run, the particles in Enertor's soles lock together to form hydroclusters that dissipate the energy throughout the entire innersole rather than back up through your feet and legs. Studies suggest they reduce injuries by 66%. I can't vouch for that, but I CAN say my legs felt lighter and less painful after a lengthy run.
I also combined testing by putting the SOLOMON Aero Blaze 3 GRVL Gore-Tex (see below) through their paces with and without the Enertor insoles, and found that the combination of the two was the sweet spot: New trainers with plenty of bounce, with the added Enertor insoles to aid recovery and provide even more arch support.
My advice is to grab a pair of these Enertor innersoles before purchasing new trainers, and give them a whirl in the shop togerther. It might mean going up half a size to accommodate them, but your calves and feet will thank you for it in the long run.
ZONE3 AERO BENTO BOX TUBE BAG
RRP £25
They say:
The ZONE3 Top Tube or 'Bento' Box, as they are better known, is designed to store all your training or race essentials within an easy access area while keeping in line with your bike’s aerodynamic profile to help minimise any drag.
Our reviewer says:
When all's said and done, nothing makes a difference to your ride as much as well-timed nutrition. You can be wearing the finest threads atop the world's most technically advanced bike, but when the bonk begins, you'll find yourself in big trouble.
The Zone3 Aero Bento Box Tube Bag provided the perfect carry-on for snacks and gels on long rides, and crucially it did so without getting in the way - I've had top tube bags before that brushed my knees with every rotation of the pedal. Fine on my 12 mile commute, but absolutely unbearable on a 100 mile day in the saddle.
On shorter rides and the daily cycle to work, I found the bag a perfect size for storing everyday essentials such as a spare inner tube, multi-tool and mobile phone. I also stored my work pass and keys in there for easy access, rather than rooting around in my backpack at either end of my ride. As someone who prefers to ride without jersey pockets stuffed full with paraphernalia, the Bento Box has become an ever-present on my bike - and when triathlon season begins in a month or so, that Bento Box might just be the thing that gets me over the finish line.
ZONE3 ACTIVATE TRI SUIT
RRP £149
They say:
The Activate+ Short Sleeve Trisuit continues to set the standard for performance, comfort, and value, now refined with enhanced materials and athlete-driven updates.
Our reviewer says:
As a man of advancing age, I'll throw this fact out there: It's nigh-on impossible to look good in lycra. There, I said it. Unforgiving, tight-fitting and generally pretty ugly, tri-suits can often be a step up from cycling gear when it comes to looking awful. So, it was with some trepidation that I poured myself into Zone3's Activate Tri Suit. But what stared back at me in the mirror was something - dare I say it - quite nice? They've opted for a bold design, with swirls covering the top half and a solid block of purple below the waist, and created a suit that won't leave me hiding behind my laptop when the official photographer's images drop on social media the week after my race. In the water, it's light enough to feel like a regular swimsuit, and by half way through my cycle the suit is bone dry and ready for a sprint finish. The padding in the shorts is enough for a comfortable cycle without turning into a nappy in the water, and by the time I hit my run it's barely noticeable. There's a reason Zone3 are the triathlon kings, and the Activate Tri Suit is a surefire winner whether you're entering your first race or looking for a new suit for the summer.
ZONE3 LEAKPROOF 600ml WATER BOTTLE
RRP £3.99
They say:
The Zone3 Water Bottle is a lightweight, leak-proof bottle designed for hydration during training, racing and recovery. Built from BPA-free, food-safe materials, it features an ergonomic shape, push–pull valve and wide opening for easy use on the move.
Our reviewer says:
There's only so much one can say about a water bottle, but there's plenty that can go wrong with them, so finding a trustworthy companion for your long cycles is something you'll want to achieve early on. The Zone 3 leakproof waterbottle really IS leakproof, which is easier said than done when you'll inevitably end up tossing it into bags and dropping it on floors, roads and pavements. It's a sturdy little beast, capable of handling everything you throw at it (or throw it into) and for less than a fiver it's impossible to fault.
ZONE3 ASCEND SLEEVELESS WETSUIT
RRP £155
They say:
The Ascend Sleeveless Wetsuit is an entry-level sleeveless triathlon wetsuit engineered to give swimmers dependable performance from their first open-water sessions onward. Built with a balanced neoprene profile and a streamlined sleeveless cut perfect for warmer weather, it offers freedom of movement, consistent buoyancy, and controlled efficiency.
Our reviewer says:
As a lifelong competitive pool-swimmer, I entered my first triathlon pretty confident I could find my way to the front of the pack in the water. But I hadn't prepared for the extra weight of a wetsuit on my arms, and by the half way point, my limbs felt like they were attached to dumbells. It was at that point - somewhere in the middle of the Serpentine - that I made the decision to switch to armless wetsuits from now on.
Naturally, if you're plunging into ice-cold waters, this isn't the suit for you. But for milder weather, shorter swims and the kind of conditions most of us enjoy for triathlon competitions, the Zone3 is a perfefct combination of warmth, arm-freeing practicality and buoyancy. The fact it comes in at just £155 makes it a no-brainer for triathletes.
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SOLOMON Aero Blaze 3 GRVL Gore-Tex
RRP £145
They say:
Break the mould with AERO BLAZE 3 GRVL GoreTex. A lightweight, all-terrain running shoe that gives you the freedom to head from road to gravel and beyond, whatever the conditions. The energFOAM² midsole promises soft landings and an added bounce to your stride. A secure fit and grippy sole dares you to switch terrain and explore new playground.
Our reviewer says:
Unless you're training for a specific event like a Marathon, the urge to switch up your training runs for something a little different is strong. And if you're relatively new to the running scene, you won't want to be hoarding a different set of trainers for every surface. The Aero Blaze 3 might have gravel (well, GRVL...) in their name, but they're marketed as a mixed terrain shoe, meaning you get a little bit of everything. The grippy sole was perfect for runs through the forest and the springy sole made road running a little less painful than usual. Naturally, as with any 'do it all' product, don't expect the Aero to outdo a dedicated, top-level road racing shoe, but for a runner looking at hitting the streets (or the trails) every couple of days, the Aero Blaze 3 Grvl are a great choice.
1000 MILE Men's Run Crew Repreve Single Layer Sock
RRP £16 (Twin pack)
They say:
The Men’s Run Crew Repreve Single Layer Sock supports and protects your feet during running and sports. It is lightweight, durable, and built for comfort. These socks use REPREVE® recycled fibres, made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. Together with recycled Nylon 6, they create a soft yet strong fabric. By choosing these socks, you reduce waste and help protect the planet.
Our reviewer says:
Running AND saving the planet? Steady on there, superhero! It might not sound comfy to run in recycled plastic bottles, but the 1000 Mile socks quickly became my go-to sock for longer runs. The padding on the heel was immediately noticable and the ventilation helped keep my trotters cool when the weather picked up. Experienced runners will tell you that for all the expensive gear flooding the market, a good pair of socks could be the difference between coming home with sweaty, blood-stained trainers, or reaching the end of the route in comfort. For £8 per pair, you won't go far wrong with these crew socks.
CANNARAY Athlete Performance & Recovery Blood Test
RRP £160
They say:
Our most comprehensive health assessment for men, covering hormone levels, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk factors, organ function, and essential vitamins. This panel gives you a complete picture of your overall health and identifies areas that may need attention.
Our reviewer says:
Cannaray offer a multitude of at-home blood tests including an Athlete Performance & Recovery Blood Test, which might be more appealing to the serious runners and cyclists amongst you. We opted for the more general, 'Men's Health Complete', which reports on a stunning 27 markers from cholesterol and testosterone to kidney and liver function, B9 and B12 vitamins and Ferritin.
The test itself is incredibly easy and pain-free. Stick the circular pad to your upper arm, give it a click and the blood starts dripping into the container without so much as a moment of pain. It's so painless, in fact, that we're beginning to wonder if the nurse at our local blood test clinic is actually just inflicting pain for her own satisfaction.
Once the vial is full, we toss it into the provided envelope, post it immediately and wait a few days for the results to come back via email.
And when they do, they're certainly comprehensive. No less than thirty different measurements are provided, from Thyroid Stimulating Hormone to Free T4, Aspartate Aminotransferase (Liver Function), Luteinizing hormone and Ferritin, plus a bunch of different Cholesterol figures. If, like me, your last point of reference for all this stuff is a GCSE Science class in the late 90s, fear not - each measurement comes with a visual slider: if your arrow's in the red, it's bad; if it's in the green, it's good. You don't need a PHD around here.
The results also suggest potential supplements based on your results (mine ranged from Energy Wellness Powder to Lion's Mane Gummies and Magnesium Capsules. The overriding feedback suggesting that I'm lacking in energy, which I can confirm to be true...) along with a 40% discount to help me on my way. If you're keen to find out what's going on under the bonnet, this MOT comes well recommended. We might pop back in a year's time to see how things have changed...
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