How We Compare Running Gear
RunnersPicks is built on honest recommendations. Here's exactly how we evaluate products and what our different content types mean.
Our review categories
Hands-on reviews (by Jos or contributors)
These are products we actually own and use in real training. You'll see specific mileage data, personal opinions, and references to our actual training. These articles clearly state who used the product and for how long.
Examples: Jos's shoe rotation article, Sarah's stroller review, Kevin's trail gear.
Research-based comparisons
Most of our "Best X" and comparison articles fall here. We compare products based on:
- Manufacturer specs (weight, stack height, drop, features)
- Verified pricing across multiple retailers
- Owner reviews and community feedback (Reddit, running forums)
- Expert reviews from running-specific publications
- Long-term durability reports
We don't claim to have physically tested every product in a comparison article. We do claim to have thoroughly researched them.
Reddit Consensus articles
These aggregate real opinions from running communities (r/RunningShoeGeeks, r/AdvancedRunning, r/running). We read hundreds of comments and summarize what actual users say. We always link to the source discussions.
News and first-look articles
When new products launch, we publish based on official specs, press materials, and early reports. We clearly label these as "first look" or "what we know so far" rather than reviews.
What we evaluate
Every product is assessed on criteria relevant to recreational runners who train 3-5 times per week:
- Performance value — Does it help you train better or run faster?
- Price-to-performance — Is it worth the money at this price point?
- Durability — Will it last a reasonable amount of time?
- Practicality — Does it work in real training, not just on paper?
- Who it's for — We always specify who should buy it AND who should skip it.
What we don't do
- We don't accept payment for positive reviews
- We don't rank products higher because of affiliate commissions
- We don't claim hands-on experience we don't have
- We don't use stock "10/10" rating systems (they're meaningless)
Our team
Content is written by Jos (founder, sub-20 5K runner) and seven contributors with different running backgrounds. Each contributor writes from their genuine perspective and experience level.
Questions?
If you think we got something wrong, email hello@runnerspicks.com. We correct errors quickly.