The Boston Run Show was the place to be this weekend for running enthusiasts, and of course, Marathon Handbook was there to soak it all in. The energy was nonstop with the latest trends in gear and tech to inspiring conversations with brands pushing the sport forward.
Alex, Michael and I even hosted a live podcast where we discussed the biggest running trends and developments of 2025—because let’s be honest, there’s a lot happening in the running world right now. A big thank you to all of you who came out to see us and we promise, next time we’ll bring more hats!
But this weekend wasn’t just about chatting; we got hands-on (or should we say, feet-on) with new gear, testing out some of the most exciting innovations hitting the market.
And because no trip to Boston is complete without tackling the legendary Newton hills, we laced up for a fun long run on the Boston Marathon course to round it all out.
With so much to see, test, and experience, narrowing down our top picks wasn’t easy, but here are the five best things we saw at this year’s show:
#1: The Wahoo Kickr Run
We had the chance to hop on the new Wahoo KICKR RUN, and let’s just say—it’s a game-changer. This isn’t your average treadmill folks. It’s designed to make indoor training feel as real as it gets.
First up, it has a RunFree Mode. The belt literally adjusts to your stride without you touching a thing. Speed up? It speeds up. Slow down? It slows down. No more jabbing at buttons mid-workout and risking tripping and falling off the back—it just lets you run naturally.
And with a max speed of 4:00/mile, even the speed demons out there, like our very own Alex Cyr, have plenty of room to push the pace.
There’s also dynamic movement—this thing tilts, shifts, and simulates uphills and downhills, making you feel like you’re really out on the roads. The side-to-side tilt even works your stabilizing muscles, mimicking the uneven terrain of an outdoor run. Trust us, you’ll feel it the next day (in the best way).
Also, whether you’re deep into Zwift, Wahoo SYSTM, or Peloton, the treadmill automatically adjusts your pace and incline based on your workout. Plus, the advanced running metrics—like ground contact time and vertical oscillation—are a running nerd’s dream.
Oh, and Alex and Katelyn took it to the test with a 400m sprint battle. Let’s just say one of them challenged that 4:00/mile pace, and the other, not even close (we won’t name names).
Bottom line? If you have to face frigid winters as our Toronto team does or simply have to train indoors for convenience, the Wahoo Kickr Run is for you.
#2: Hettas: Women-Specific Running Shoes
I had the chance to lace up a pair of Hettas running shoes, and let me tell you—this brand is bringing something seriously refreshing to the running world. Unlike the big-name brands that tweak men’s shoes and call them “women’s models,” Hettas is flipping the script, designing high-performance running shoes specifically for women.
Founded by Lindsay, a powerhouse inspired by her twin daughters, Hettas is all about addressing the gap in running shoe design for women and getting them the research, funding, and gear we deserve.
I could feel the difference immediately, a lower heel cup that actually fits my ankle, a secure but pressure-free hold on the Achilles, and a nice hug for my foot in all the right places. I can’t wait to get some miles in using these sneaks.
Hettas offers three models, each specific for a different type of run. The Alma Cruise for easy miles, the Tempo for endurance runs, and the Speed for race day.
The best part? There’s a real community behind Hettas, where women support each other in running. It’s not just a shoe—it’s a movement.
If you’ve ever felt like traditional running shoes weren’t built for you, Hettas might be just what you’ve been looking for.
#3: Adidas Adizero Evo SL
If speed had a look, it would be the Adizero Evo SL. Inspired by Adidas’ record-smashing Adizero lineup—yep, we’re talking about the same tech that fuels world-class runners—this shoe is built for that faster-than-fast feeling.
At its core? LIGHTSTRIKE PRO foam—the same high-energy-return cushioning found in Adidas’ top-tier racing shoes, keeping every step light, bouncy, and super comfortable.
A sleek, race-inspired upper makes it look just as fast as it feels and weighing in at a featherlight 188 grams this shoe won’t hold you back.
Alex got to lace up for our 400-meter face off, and let’s just say, I think he had an edge.
He said they’re like a workout version of the elusive Pro Evos, with a thicker upper, and more conservative midsole and they’re made for the runner who likes lightweight, low-bulk workout shoes.
#4: Bakline Running Apparel
Our whole team had the pleasure of chatting with the dynamic duo behind this brand. Founded in 2008, Bakline combines art and sport into a distinctive Brooklyn-based sportswear and lifestyle brand.
Originally rooted in rugby apparel, they recognized a shared mindset between rugby players and runners—both embodying grit, determination, and a relentless drive to push limits. This realization led them to expand into the running community, bringing their unique flair and high-performance gear to athletes who “play hard and party harder.”
Bakline offers a wide range of apparel tailored for various running terrains including road, track, and trail. Their Performance line is made from high-performance fabrics, ideal for intense training sessions, while the Lifestyle collection features bold graphics that resonate with Bakline’s artistic roots, perfect for casual wear or post-run relaxation.
During our visit, I couldn’t resist picking up a Boston Marathon racing crop top for April. I was really drawn to its unique design, super cool play on the logo and comfortable fit.
Additionally, we discovered they offer custom kits, allowing teams to showcase their identity with personalized apparel.
Bakline’s core belief is that being fast is a mindset, demonstrated through dedication and continuous improvement. They aim to #RedefineFast, embracing athletes of all sizes, focusing on different events, and at various stages of development. No matter where you are in your journey,
Bakline believes that “fast” is an idea that belongs to all of us.
In essence, Bakline isn’t just a brand; it’s a community that celebrates the spirit of running and the arts, encouraging everyone to chase that runner’s high with style and passion.
#5: The 2025 Boston Marathon Celebration Jacket
If you’re running the 2025 Boston Marathon, there’s one piece of gear you absolutely need to get your hands on—the official Celebration Jacket. Adidas and the BAA has dropped this year’s design, and let’s be real: it’s probably the most iconic piece of gear in the running world.
I was running Heartbreak Hill this weekend sporting my 2003 Boston jacket, proving that these jackets aren’t just race-day souvenirs—they’re badges of honor. But you better believe I’m snagging the 2025 version come race weekend.
This year’s design brings a fresh spin on the classic Boston Blue that now bleeds into purple hues. What really stands out is the new detail on the sleeve—“Boston is my victory.” It’s a perfect reminder that just making it to that finish line is a massive accomplishment.
Want to grab yours? The 2025 Celebration Jacket is officially on sale for $120. Time to gear up and get ready for Marathon Monday!
As the Boston Run Show wrapped up, we couldn’t help but look back on a weekend filled with fast shoes, cutting-edge gear, inspiring conversations, and, of course, plenty of miles.
It wasn’t just about the gear, though—it was about the people. Connecting with brands, hearing their stories, and getting to know the minds behind the products made it all the more special.
Whether it was swapping stories with Meb Keflezighi, nerding out over shoe tech, or just sharing a laugh about how brutal Heartbreak Hill still is, the weekend was full of those little moments that make the running community so great.
Huge shoutout to Marathon Sports, who hooked us up with some awesome winter running hats just in time for our long run up (and down) Heartbreak Hill, that made us feel just a little extra Boston-strong.
And now? Well, I’ve got my eyes on that 2025 Boston Marathon jacket, Alex is still buzzing from his speed test with Adizero Evo SLs, and Michael is probably already plotting his next treadmill workout (because, let’s be real, Canadian winters aren’t forgiving).
We had a blast, and if this year’s Run Show was any indication of what’s ahead in 2025, then it’s going to be one heck of a year for running. Until next time, Boston—see you on Boylston!
