On Tuesday the 6th May we had a tune-up session in collaboration with Southville RC ahead of the Bristol Half Marathon & 10k on Sunday. Karhu joined us for a shoe demo!

A big thank you to Michael from Karhu for bringing down so many shoes for us to test! Everyone who wanted to try a pair got a pair. A thank you also to Southville RC for letting us join in their group training sessions. This a great club and anyone in the South Bristol area looking for a more structured training session on a Tuesday then this a club that offers everything from walk-jog groups to interval training.
We demoed the shoes on the various group runs on offer with some group going on recce runs of the Bristol Half Marathon & 10k courses ahead of Sunday. After the run we had a giveaway and one lucky person won a brand new pair of Karhu Mestari 1.5!

Karhu was founded in Finland in 1916 and has a rich heritage rooted in over a century of craftsmanship, innovation and a deep love for running. The brand is able to blend tradition and innovation through honouring its history while pushing the boundaries of design and technology. Karhu translates to “bear” in Finnish which symbolises the brand’s strength, resilience and enduring commitment to quality and perofrmance.
Karhu established themselves as a trusted brand and pioneer in the running industry through groundbreaking innovations like the air-cushioned midsole and โbear clawโ outsole. More recent signature features include the Fulcrum technology and Synchron lacing system which are engineered to enhance natural movement and promote a more efficient, enjoyable running experience.

There were three shoes on offer for us to test at our Karhu tune up session with Southville RC on Tuesday evening: the Mestari 1.5, Ikoni 3.0 and Fusion 4.0.
The Mestari 1.5 is Karhu’s max-cushion, smooth and stable everyday trainer best described as “comfort in motion”. A higher stack height, more toe spring and an increase of AeroFoam cushioning combined with Karhu’s signature rolling effect ensures the perfect blend of softness, support and energy return. A luxurious step-in feel is delivered from the IdealKnit mesh that allows plenty of stretch in the toe box while securely hugging the midfoot. This modern, stylish silhouette guarantees a plush and efficient ride!
The Ikoni 3.0 is Karhu’s most balanced all-purpose daily trainer that ensures a smooth and guided ride. A deflation channel and increased rubber coverage on the outsole complete the stable Fulcrum midsole to improve stability, traction and stamina. The supple, brindle patterned IdealKnit mesh upper and modern, flared heel counter enhance fit and step-in comfort. Enjoy the finely-tuned blend of support and efficiency designed for logging easy, everyday miles!
The Fusion 4.0 is Karhu’s ultimate all-in-one shoe that blends comfort, responsiveness and performance. A plush and propulsive ride is delivered through an accelerated heel-to-toe transition and responsive underfoot experience. The nitrogen-injected AeroFoam midsole and deflation channel increase rebound, absorb impact and provide more cushioning. Throw in the soft IdealKnit mesh for improved breathability and enjoy a swift ride that feels efficient at cruising speeds or race pace!
Come in-store to learn more about this historic brand and test out the Mestari 1.0, Fusion 4.0 and Ikoni 3.0 today!

A big thank you to everyone who joined us for our Karhu tune up session with Southville RC!