The Most Important Limited-Edition Boston Marathon Gear Released This Year

The Boston Marathon is the most prestigious marathon in the world. It’s the hardest to qualify for, and the runners who compete are, sans-hyperbole, the fastest in the world. In other words, it is the Tour de France, Super Bowl or World Series of running — choose your analogy. It always falls on the third Monday of April, when the snow is hopefully melted and there’s less of a chance of rain. Everyone in Boston has the day off for Patriots Day, and the streets are filled with college students, parents and Boston natives to cheer on 30,000+ runners.

To honor the marathon, brands push out special-edition gear for racers and non-racers to enjoy. We rounded up some of the best gear we’ve seen so far for the 2018 Boston Marathon.

Altra Boston Escalante Racer

A higher-performance version of the Escalante, the Escalante Racer can charge ahead and hold the pace. The cushion feels soft when you’re hanging with the pack and then firms up as you push the limit. The sock-like upper is firm and breathable — ideal for a race where it could be as warm as 73 (as it was in 2017) or as cold as 38 (as it was in 1970). It’s only available for a limited time.

New Balance Fresh Foam Lazr Boston

Unless you’re a super athlete (or super freak), when you’re done running a marathon, it might be hard to start running again. These shoes will help you get to the gym to keep working on recovery, plus you can run a short distance in them. Which let’s be honest, after 26.2 miles, what’s two more?

New Balance 890v6 Boston

With “Run Boston” on the laces, there is no questioning if you ran the race — especially in these quick shoes. Ideal for speed runs, the 890v6 Boston has the same great bootie construction as the standard 890v6. The blown rubber outsole really envelops your feet and the Fresh Foam midsole provides ample energy return to help you keep running. The insole is covered with maps of Boston, adding another fun element.

Adidas Boston Marathon Z.N.E. Hoodie

As the official footwear and apparel sponsor, Adidas’s Boston Marathon jackets are always surrounded with hype. Can’t get one? This Z.N.E. hoodie is a cozy and minimalist option available to anyone. Designed to keep runners warm before the starting gun sounds, the cotton-blend jacket has a semi-fitted feel that looks sharp.

Adidas Adizero Boston 7

Another limited edition drop for the start of marathon season, the Adizero comes in a deep blue complimented with yellow laces and the unicorn of the Boston Athletic Association logo on the heel. The breathable upper features the classic three-stripe design expected from Adidas. The Continental rubber outsole means you won’t slip on a rainy race day whether you’re cheering or running.

Tracksmith Grayboy – Boston

Mondays are for marathons has been true for the city of Boston since 1897. Another Boston-based brand, Tracksmith designs well-made minimalistic running gear inspired by old-school track designs. You can run in this varsity cotton (read: well worn-in) tee or stand on the sidelines along Boylston to cheer.

Tracksmith BQ Singlet

This is one item you can’t get unless you are a BQ — a Boston Qualifier. Referred to at countless races across the country, racing a BQ is something that guarantees you bragging rights. The white singlet with the golden yellow racing stripe is something that holds a lot of pride.

Brooks Launch 5

The Launch 5 received high marks when it first launched — the outsole is on the higher end of durability for neutral, lightweight shoes. The upper on the fifth iteration is breathable, made with a mix of mesh, and comfortable. This year’s Boston-inspired sneakers are covered in lobsters and anchors, the epitome of the Northeast.

Saucony Kinvara 9

Each year, runners watch to see how brands will design the pinnacle marathon sneaker, and most years it’s just another cityscape design — but Saucony diverged from that notion. In collaboration with Dunkin’ Donuts (of which you pass 18 on the Boston marathon course) these Kinvara 9s are sprinkled with DD logos and coffee motifs. Runners everywhere went crazy for them, so unfortunately, these sweet shoes are already sold out.

Asics GEL-Nimbus 20 Boston

With the combined opening of Asics’ new Creation Studio in Boston and the 20th edition of the GEL-Nimbus, the brand has a lot to celebrate. These vibrant blue sneakers scream Boston, with the bold white print across the upper. Other Bostonian references include the gold-domed state house in Boston Common and the sock liner inspired by the Zakim Bridge that crosses the Charles River.

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