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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.

ARmy Rumour SErvice - PT-03 review

>>03 December 2010

UK Gear PT-03 SC British Military Edition

The PT-03 is a trainer that is – in the words of UK Gear – a durable road & trail running shoe designed to exacting military specifications. This tough, reliable shoe offers a blend of cushioning and support which gives a perfect balance of comfort and durability.

I have recently upped the distance I am running from 0 to 40 miles a week and as the weeks pass I will eventually be running 80+ miles a week. So, I thought I would get a pair of trainers that would see me right, regardless of where I run. The trainers I had before were Adidas Falcons. These were a really comfortable trainer, but not really good for the training I was about to embark, so I decided on getting a different pair. I had heard of the PT-03 elsewhere and decided I would give them a go.

From the first time I put them on I could tell they would be a nice and comfortable trainer. They felt lightweight (12oz (340g)) and I was bouncing around the shop while trying them out. My feet felt secure and they didn’t feel like there was any room for my feet to slip around in them. Although at first I could feel the seam on my big toes, after just a few days of breaking them in, this was no longer a problem.

My training so fair has seen me run on numerous terrains, from road to sand and so far the PT-03 has been good on all. The sole has some great grip on most surfaces, although wet leaves can be an issue at times. With it now being December and snow and ice on the floor, I am just starting to see what it’s like in these conditions, so fair so good.

The PT-03 is currently retailing at £70 however I got mine in a sale for £35 although they are definitely worth the £70. The PT-03 also has reflective strips/dots/sections all around the trainer giving the runner a bit more visibility to other road/path users. The trainer has a mesh that surrounds the trainer which helps regulate the foot temperature which is must on the longer distances. The tongue has fitted lace loops which mean the tongue remains in place throughout your run.

There is also a ‘Highly Durable Carbon Rubber Sole’ – I haven’t a clue what this means, but apparently it’s good for road and off road running. If I had to gripe about anything with the PT-03 it would be the heel. On the down step it can feel a little on the hard side, due to the material the ‘Landing Zone’ is made from, this may be because of my running style though, so I will live with it for now.

This really is a great running shoe that does exactly what it says on the box. I am putting it through it’s paces over the next few months and hopefully it can get me around the London Marathon in one piece.