The accessibility of running (requiring little more than a pair of shoes and an open road) has helped fuel its growth.

In many ways, running footwear is driving the outdoor industry right now much like snowboarding once did for skiing and standup paddleboarding did for kayaking. It’s participation-based, accessible, and community-fueled; it feels new again. And brands that understand both performance and culture are defining this next chapter.

Founded in 1898, Saucony has long held key credibility within core run circles, but the Endorphin franchise marked a sharper inflection point for the brand in a modern performance system built around speed, propulsion, and efficiency. To that end, Saucony recently launched their Spring Marathon Collection featuring three new design iterations of the Endorphin Speed 5 sneaker with three bold city-forward designs inspired by the upcoming Tokyo, Boston, and London marathons. The Speed 5 remains anan up-tempo shoe, which quickly proves itself as more, equally capable of long, moderate training sessions, Zone 2 training, and sprints.

The collection continues a design tradition the brand has maintained for more than a decade.

As Chris Mahoney, VP of Design at Saucony, told Vanish, the company began developing marathon-themed seasonal collections to reflect the connection between running culture and the cities that host the sport’s most visible events. “Saucony’s seasonal Marathon collections started well over 10 years ago. As a brand, we initiated these projects because we were driven by the deep connection to running culture, especially the emotional energy and global reach of marathon running,” Mahoney said. “We love that these events celebrate both the sport and the cities that host some of the world’s biggest marathons. For Saucony, our goal has always been to create designs that resonate with both runners and enthusiasts, so it’s fun to draw on the unique character, culture, and race-day environment found at major marathons, which is showcased in the latest Boston, London, and Tokyo editions.”

Mahoney says that the design process for these releases relies on collaboration across Saucony’s global teams: “We have a strong creative and collaborative relationship with our teams around the globe, and the regional teams within these cities help contribute ideas and concepts so that we can create collections that resonate best.” When asked if he had a favorite shoe from the collection this season, he pointed to the Tokyo edition. “It’s tough to choose just one, but I’m very drawn to the Tokyo. I love the visual of the graphics on the upper and the overall color scheme. The subtle jade fade in the upper, adjacent to the metallic golden midsole, makes for a pretty striking visual.”

For Tokyo, Saucony wanted to capture the balance between tradition and forward momentum. The upper features a red plum blossom graphic inspired by 18th-century Japanese artwork — a symbol of resilience and renewal that still feels timeless. The golden haze tone along the midsole draws from the gilded gold in traditional art, while also reflecting the way the setting sun washes across Tokyo’s skyline. It’s a blend of heritage and modern energy, calm, refined, but always moving, which is “exactly what makes the city so compelling,” according to the brand.

The Boston design was inspired by the iconic color system of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Mahoney said it was fun to dig into the history behind each line — what the colors represent, the neighborhoods they connect, and how those identities came to be. After bringing all the MBTA colors together, subtle motion and blur across the midsole reflects the constant movement of the trains and buses that carry people in, out, and around the city every day. The upper is intentionally clean so the energy of the midsole stands out. And the crisp white upper naturally feels like spring in New England — a quiet nod to marathon season and the renewed energy that takes over the city each year.

London is layered with visual history, and red and gold are woven throughout the city. From the unmistakable double-decker buses and phone booths to ceremonial guard uniforms, red is instantly recognizable. Gold accents echo the detailing found on gates, statues, and historic architecture, giving the city its regal presence. Saucony pulled from that palette and incorporated a red rose graphic along the midsole as a tribute to England’s national emblem. At first glance, it reads almost like texture or linework. But the closer you look, the more you see the rose petals wrapping around the sculpted speed form. That subtle reveal felt right — it reflects London itself, where depth and detail unfold the longer you take it in.

The Spring Marathon Collection highlights how Saucony continues to connect product design with the broader culture of running, using global marathon cities as creative reference points while building on the performance foundation of the Endorphin Speed 5.

–Author Aaron H. Bible has been covering running and the outdoors for more than three decades. Follow his work on Instagram @DefinitelyWild. 

The post Saucony Channels Marathon Energy from Boston, London, and Tokyo in Spring Drop appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

Marking the next highly anticipated stage in the evolution of their popular Mach series, a range characterised by delivering light-on-your-feet cushioning with high-energy foam, French running brand HOKA has just released the Mach 7.

Incorporating the same durable materials and super snappy responsive ride as previous iterations, the newly updated version delivers a lighter and more breathable shoe alongside a brand new look.

Designed specifically with reaching optimal speed in mind, HOKA has enlisted a creel jacquard upper with zonal breathability into the Mach 7 with an internal gusset that enables the locked-in fit to accelerate runners to their next PR. Whilst the purpose-built sticky rubber forefoot and durabrasion rubber heel provide an unprecedented combination of enhanced cushioning and support for a uniquely smooth ride.

The HOKA Mach 7 is available now from HOKA.com, HOKA retail locations and select retail partners.

The post HOKA Opens the Gateway to Everyday Speed with New Mach 7 appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

And a new limited-edition capsule uniquely fuses outdoor performance engineering with city-inspired streetwear design. Bringing this union to life, the two-item drop comprises a special-edition colorway of the HOKA Kaha Low GTX trail hiker, and ORA Recovery Slide. The HOKA x Bodega capsule collection launched March 25 exclusively at Bodega.com and Bodega stores, and at HOKA.com beginning April 1, 2022.

As Bodega calls Boston home, the design channels the four seasons of New England. The changes of season inspire the versatility of these products. You can lean on them during the work week or while exploring the outdoors over the weekend due to the heightened adaptability and functionality synonymous with HOKA. The materials were chosen to endure ever-evolving conditions. Wear them every day, yet still rely on them for performance. Moreover, the colors reflect the “Fall,” which is the most beautiful in the Northeast. Bodega added the perfect aesthetic, while HOKA provided the engine, making for elite versions of the Kaha Low GTX trail hiker and ORA Recovery Slide.

The HOKA x Bodega Kaha Low GTX (MSRP $225) features an all-new Martini Olive colorway with Almond accents and is engineered to combine proprietary foams, patented geometries, and exceptional Vibram® Megagrip traction, all in a low, ankle-height profile. The HOKA x Bodega ORA Slide​ (MSRP $60) also comes in a Martini Olive colorway but is designed for comfort and support with soft layers of EVA.

With this collaboration, these existing brand elements have been merged with HOKA’s bold, premium performance footwear silhouettes for a truly one-a-kind collection. Both brands were inspired by their shared passions for the outdoors, while taking cues from Bodega’s Boston roots.

“Bodega is excited to partner with HOKA on the Kaha Low GTX and ORA Recovery Slide. Hoka stands at the intersection of style and function, continually innovating footwear. Most importantly, our team appreciates the quality and performance of HOKA footwear.” said Matt Zaremba, Director of Marketing at Bodega. “Because we are a bi-coastal brand, residing in cities with incredible outdoor resources nearby right outside city limits, we stay active. Whether escaping from the hustle and bustle of city living to refocus and ground ourselves, or chasing the next adventure, we rely on quality goods that will make the journey enjoyable while retaining our individual approach to style. HOKA is a key brand in the space that aligns with our personal and collective tastes and appreciation for getting up and getting out there.”

“The HOKA x Bodega collab is the unification of two innovative and groundbreaking brands, with the result being shoes that empower people to explore in comfort, no matter the terrain.” said Gretchen Weimer, Vice President of Product at HOKA. “Bodega is the pinnacle expression of best-in-class streetwear, and it was an honor to collaborate on a unified vision for these special HOKA styles.”

Conceived in the mountains, HOKA footwear delivers an unprecedented combination of enhanced cushioning and support for a uniquely smooth ride. Every day, HOKA pushes the innovation and design of its footwear and apparel by teaming up with a deep roster of world champions, taste makers and everyday athletes. From finish lines to everyday life, HOKA fans love the brand for its bold and unexpected approach, and its belief in the power of humanity to create change for a better world.

The post HOKA X Bodega Collaborate on Limited Capsule, Uniquely Unite Premium Performance and Streetwear appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

For hikers, there’s an even greater need to shop for season-appropriate shoes that can protect the little ones’ feet and ensure they stay safe from slip, trips, and blisters, once they hit the trail. A pair that’s great on comfort, support, and grip and perfect on weight and waterproofing.

Getting the right hiking boots for your kid is never easy

Just like us at Vanish, every little hiking grom loves the thrills of the trail. But with the inherent risks on their feet after trekking and hiking for hours, comfortable hiking footwear is the key to enable them to stay in it to cover more miles without any complaints (though sibling bickering is always inevitable and Vasque is not liable for any of that).

The only way to achieve the peak of these fun-filled hikes is by choosing boots for your munchkins that are carefully designed for their own mini-human sizes. The ideal boots are over-the-ankle and waterproof enough to keep their feet dry throughout the outing.

You may be wondering – What boots are these ideal boots you speak of? Luckily, we have intel that there is a pair out that are rough terrain ready and score high on all-weather waterproof protection…

Enter, Vasque’s Kids St. Elias UltraDry™ Hiking Boot.

Superior unisex hiking shoes for the youth

From their features, to their performance,  Vasque’s Kids St. Elias UltraDry™ shoes are easily among the best kids hiking boots you can get for your young ones today. They are the over-the-ankle hiking shoe type, waterproof with a lace-up closure, and compact. The kid will put them on, walk on wet paths, cross small water pools, and play in the water, but the inside will remain dry.

Interestingly, these same shoes guarantee safe and accident-free hikes. Forget about the Suede leather, meshed Ultra-Dry membrane, and its rubber toe caps that protect the toes from injuries, this shoe’s compression-molded EVA midsoles are gold!

With EVA midsoles and rugged outsoles, every stride feels comfortable. There are even multidirectional lugs that even traction on all terrains to provide that “cushiony” feel. In the end, the overall hiking experience on these boots is what a little champ will fall in love with!

But, how durable are they?

Much as this affordable hiking boot won’t do much damage on that wallet, durability is also key to choosing any kids hiking boots. Vasque – KIDS ST. ELIAS ULTRADRY Hiking Boot comes with a suede leather top that can withstand extreme hikes for years.

Its molded rubber toe caps and the rugged outsoles are also guaranteed to last. Going by these shoes’ general build, the kid may even outgrow them and pass them on!

The boots MSRP for just $79.99 HERE, and come in either black and brown color waves. Pop a visit to Vasque and get ready for the best adventures with the whole family!

Specifications

• Gender: Kids – unisex.
• Uppers: tough, waterproof leather, and abrasion-resistant mesh.
• Technology: Anatomical Compression-Molded EVA midsoles, rubber toe cap, and rugged rubber Vasque Kids Monolith outsoles.
• Lining: UltraDry waterproof, breathable membrane.
• Size and weight: 2.0-6.0; 668g
• Colors: Black and Chocolate Brown.

The post Vasque Powers Forward with their Kids Hiking Boots: The St. Elias UltraDry Hiking Boot appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

Focusing on developing “physiological footwear with a purpose,” MBT claims a 24-year track record of helping people stand, walk, run, work, and play more often and more efficiently, although the brand remains virtually unknown in the endemic running space. Blending what are essentially orthopedic shoes with decidedly modern running-shoe design and materials, global footwear brand MBT recently launched its most advanced performance running shoe to date: the Huracan 3000.

In order to make running easier and more efficient, the Swiss-engineered, 11mm-drop trainer lends uninterrupted gait as the Huracan’s unique rocker sole promotes a gentle rolling motion that spurs a natural, stress-free cadence.

“The Huracan’s arrival is the start of a revolution for us at MBT, our first step toward the most cutting-edge and premium lineup of performance running footwear in the marketplace,” said CEO Andy Chaw. “As the pioneers of the rocker bottom, we’re taking our proven curved-sole technology, which we’ve been perfecting since our founding in 1996, and combining that with new technologies and forward-thinking designs that confirm our commitment to being the most innovative, health-focused running brand in the world.”

The Huracan is MBT’s answer to a growing trend in the industry toward energy return and shock dissipation, usually accomplished with a composite plate running through the midsole. But to accomplish similar results, MBT instead designed an entirely new midsole/outsole combination they’re calling MIDS. Together with their Sensor Technology, which provides MBT’s signature ‘walking-on-sand’ feel, MIDS absorbs impact and dissipates shock outward in the heel/midfoot, reducing the amount of vibration that emanates up through the body, reducing stress on the body and encouraging enhanced balance and stability. Then their renowned Pivot Strike rocker completes the process, actively rolling the foot through toe-off with every step. The end result: a cushioned, responsive running experience from impact to toe-off that minimizes fatigue and promotes continuous forward movement.

MBT is a certified class-one medical device in Europe and remains the only major commercial footwear manufacturer with majority of its shoes accredited by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Designed to counteract impact forces as runners hit the road for long runs or recovery jaunts, the Huracan’s construction provides maximum protection and encourages a faster, smoother turnover to enhance running efficiency and reduce fatigue.

Other features include:

// Exo-heel counter cradles the foot for optimum support and security

// Memory foam liner provides a custom fit for each runner’s heel and Achilles tendon

// At the forefoot, M-Flex Technology – a durable, yet flexible mesh at the toe box – adapts to a runner’s foot during different stages of a run

// Jacquard Mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable with minimal seams

// High-abrasion outsole offers superior strength and enhanced traction for running on various surfaces or in slick conditions.

// Cut-outs reduce weight and contribute to the smooth ride

// Reflective elements integrated into the upper add subtle flashes of contrast and safety for nighttime running

// MSRP: $199 USD

“We’ve worked hard to get inside the minds of runners, to understand what they want and need, and have come to understand that they expect running footwear that not only performs at the highest level, but also looks good,” Chaw said. “That’s what the Huracan provides and it’s symbolic of the boundaries we’re going to push at MBT.”

With a foundation built on science and innovation, MBT recognizes the human benefits of health, wellness and staying on the move. In addition to the mechanical advantage conferred by the curved sole, MBT’s proprietary heel-strike sensor technology absorbs impacts, smoothly transitioning heel strikes into firm midfoot rolls which complete the “rockforward movement” and propel during toe-off. The brand says more than 70 independent studies worldwide have identified the benefits of MBT’s curved-sole footwear, which include improved posture and balance, increased muscle activation, reduced lower back pain, and enhanced recovery. “We have changed lives through movement and want to change even more,” said Chaw. “Our shoes are made for journeys and those looking to get the most out of every step they take.”

The post Stepping Out of the Norm with Masai Barefoot Technology Huracan 3000 Running Shoe appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

The post Salomon Outline Prism Mid GTX Hiking Shoe: Lightweight, Flexible, and Fully Waterproof appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

How Do They Compare?

While most poor quality hiking boots on the market today won’t get you through a solid year worth of outdoor adventures, these Women’s TALUS XT GTX Hiking Boots will.

The difference lies in the unique exterior and interior of the shoe, with a moisture–wicking textile lining design and premium Nubuck leather upper that maintains its durability far more effectively than most boots we’ve come across.

Not only that, but the Vasque-exclusive VIBRAM Mega Nuasi with Megagrip Compound ensures you have solid footing throughout your hikes, even across the most difficult types of terrain – perhaps the paramount feature of any hiking boot. This provides aggressive traction and toe protection, so you can enjoy the hike more and worry less.

Finally, these hiking boots are also made with GORE-TEX and performance comfort technology for prolonged comfort, water resistance and durability.

The difference with these boots is that they maintain breathability and maximum waterproof quality for the whole hike, providing greater enjoyment and memories to last a lifetime! Plus, who doesn’t want a lightweight pair of hiking boots? With the TALUS XT GTX boot, you can get all the features of a heavy-duty design, minus the bulk weight. A feature of this innovative product we at Vanish cannot praise enough!

Various Uses

With the Women’s TALUS XT GTX Hiking Boots, you can experience any outdoor adventure in greater comfort and with superior support. This is not just limited to hiking, but also camping, fishing, hunting, and plenty of other outdoor activities that may require optimal foot support!

Conclusion

When adventure calls for a pair of hiking boots that are durable, comfortable, waterproof, breathable, and most importantly, reliable, you can’t go wrong with the Women’s TALUS XT GTX Hiking Boot by Vasque.

Vasque has hit a home run with these boots, which are offered in a variety of sizes and two distinct colorways to suit your preferences. The boots MSRP at $209.99 and are available here.

The post Women’s TALUS XT GTX Hiking Boots By Vasque: An Unbeatable Addition To Your Outdoor Wear appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

Starting October 1st through October 31st, you can get 20% off orders on KEEN over $100 when you use coupon code 20percentKEEN2020. Note: this deal is not valid on any utility products.

All of us at Vanish know how hard it is to part with those flip flops after an adventure-packed summer, but with a deal like this from KEEN, it won’t be so tough to find some new high-performing footwear to proudly rock on all your upcoming Autumn excursions. You can check out all they’ve got available here.

The post KEEN Footwear October Sale: 20% off orders over $100 appeared first on VANISH TODAY.

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Shop small and check out the curated quality gear at Hatchet Outdoor Supply Co.

Here, we’re showcasing:

The Aerial Down Vest from Japanese down purveyors Nanga. Ultralight. European duck down. Made in Japan.

Filson’s Camo Low-Profile Cap. Guaranteed for life.

Battenwear’s Duck Canvas Lazy Pants. Rugged workwear canvas. Elastic waistband. Made in USA.

The Danner Mountain 600 in Saddle Tan. Full-grain leather upper. Danner Dry waterproof lining. Vibram Fuga outsole.

The post Nanga, Battenwear, Filson, Danner at Hatchet Supply appeared first on VANISH TODAY.