’s not the world’s most heavy-duty shoe, but its highly soft ride, universal fit and effective on- and off-road outsole ensures its position as a perennial favourite.Try it on if you liked Saucony Jazz 5000 (£50); Nike Air Alate (£50); Asics Gel Integral (£50)

It has been another great year for runners who like to shop. The past 12 months have seen, among other things, the convincing comeback of a faded shoe giant and the launch of a top-notch off-roader. It’s also seen cheap, but definitely not nasty

off. I’ve fitted an orthosis in my left cycling shoe, and heel raises in my running shoes. I mainly run off-road and do plenty of static stretches, along with stretches over a step, and massage the tendon. But it still hurts – what can I do?A Your

when you get back on to the road or track.A groomed grass surface can also provide the ideal opportunity to take off your shoes. "Grass is ideal for introducing yourself to barefoot running and drills, because it's kind on the feet and has some give

it's no surprise that the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise reports that harder running surfaces are more often associated with injuries. But not all off-road surfaces have the same benefits. "Different surfaces influence how

, natural movement pattern Lieberman describes is likely to be somewhat rusty, to say the least. “Simply taking off your shoes does not ensure good form,” he concedes. “You can run badly barefoot and well in shoes. Ultimately, how you run is more important

. Getting StartedTeaming up with other runners is the best way to dip your toe in if you’re completely new to off-road running. The Fell Running Association website has links to clubs across the country – contact a local group for a network of people ready

comparable to road running, set the gradient to 1-2 degrees. You’ll be underusing your gluteals, hamstrings and lower back muscles because you don’t have a static surface to push off from as you run. You’ll need to do excercises strengthen them separately

average competitors. Come race day your new-found strength will pay dividends.Set Clear GoalsOnce you’ve turned off the turbo entertainment, it’s important to be clear about what you want to achieve. Long road rides are excellent for aerobic fitness

-rate monitors. The Wattbike costs less than some triathletes spend on a second road-bike frame. Essential?No, but it is unique - and the only static bike endorsed by British Cycling. Claire Johnson, an age-group triathlete, says, "The Wattbike is useful