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UK Gear’s training shoes were originally designed in association with the Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC). These elite fitness professionals were closely involved in the development and tested our products in some of the most inhospitable conditions on Earth. Only when approved by the Military do we consider our products... Built to survive.

Athletics Weekly - If James Bond chose a pair of shoes to run in, it would probably be these

>>17 May 2006

If James Bond chose a pair of shoes to run in, it would probably be these. The UK Gear XC-09 is a new multi-terrain shoe that is made in Britain and it is so tough it has been given NATO approval and is currently worn by the German Military.

UK Gear may not be too well known among athletics circles, but this growing brand beat several big-name companies to the German military deal and it has also designed and made kit for the West Indies cricket team and the Warwickshire, Surrey and Leicestershire county sides among others.

Previously, it has earned good reviews when producing the PT-03 running shoe, which was designed and developed in association with the British Army Physical Training Corps.

AW tested the shoe and found it to be as rugged as you'd expect from something that is favored by the military. This is not a shoe you would wear in a 5km race, but instead it is a great shoe to wear before ploughing through rough terrain during a long weekend run in winter.

Its black colour and sturdy features reminded me of the stories of runners such as Emil Zátopek and Dave Bedford, who famously trained wearing army boots. But while having impressive stability and durability, these shoes are nowhere near as heavy as a traditional army boot and are also designed with comfort in mind. After all, even rock hard army folk do not want to get blisters halfway through a run - even if they would never admit it.

This shoe is certainly worth a try if you do a lot of running on various surfaces - especially rough terrain - and could also be appropriate for sprinters, jumpers and throwers who are looking for a good-looking black shoe for general training purposes that will probably last a lot longer than most shoes.

Another plus point is that it is also remarkably water-resistant too.

Managing director of UK Gear David Hinde said: "When it comes to development innovative, high-performance sportswear, working with the armed forces is fantastic.

"I can't think of anyone who could challenge us more. We are continuing to work with the British Army on designs for two new running shoes that we hope to launch early this year".

For more information see www.ukgear.com or call 0870 4031400. The UK Gear XC-09 retails for £65.