Look, nowadays you can test sneakers for free at trucks and brand stores like Nike and ASICS, at running events, in testing clubs, and in official product testing programs, where they send the product home and you give feedback to the brand.
Since sneakers easily cost over a thousand reais, trying them for free before buying helps you avoid spending more than you should and can even prevent injuries. In the following sections, you'll see where to find these tests, how to register, and what to do to increase your chances of being selected.
What does it mean to try on sneakers for free in practice?
Testing running shoes for free means trying out models from brands like Nike or ASICS without spending a penny, whether by borrowing them for a short time or having them delivered to your home. This way, you can see if the shoes suit your running style and avoid buying something bad.
Think of it this way: imagine borrowing a pair of sneakers from the Nike Running Truck for a workout at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas in Rio de Janeiro. Then, you test the cushioning and how they respond to the pavement, all without having to buy them.
Many performance sneakers today exceed R$ 1,000, such as the ASICS Sonicblast and Megablast models, which were released with suggested retail prices between R$ 1,399.99 and R$ 1,999.99, according to the brand itself.
Types of tennis tests you will encounter
There are quick loan options, like at branded trucks, where you can borrow shoes for a few hours during a workout. There's also product testing, which lasts longer and allows you to use them at home for weeks.
Another type is the "buy and try" model, where you pay a fee that becomes credit towards your purchase. Unlike the free ones, these cost a little upfront, but it's worth it if you like the model. Therefore, it's worth checking out... Samsung: Buy and Test – How does the program work?, which gives an example of testing electronics with credit.
Difference between quick loan and long product testing.
The quick loan is great for testing on the spot, like in a food truck parked in an amusement park. You talk to a brand representative, grab the shoes, and run off to feel the fit.
The long-term product testing process works like this: you register online and, if selected, receive the pair at home. You wear them for a few weeks, write down your opinion, and return them. This gives you more time to notice details, such as how the shoes can handle long workouts or varied terrain.
Where can I try on sneakers for free at brand trucks and stores?
In food trucks and brand stores, you can borrow items for free for running in parks. In Rio and São Paulo, for example, brands like Nike and ASICS set up vans or fixed spaces with new models.
The Nike Running Truck stops at places like Ibirapuera Park in São Paulo and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in Rio de Janeiro, where runners pick up shoes like the Pegasus and test them on nearby tracks. It's easy: arrive, tell us your shoe size, and start training.
ASICS House operates as a fixed location, with trucks that travel to parks. There, they test Megablast and Sonicblast models in places like CERET, Celso Daniel Park, and Mercado Livre Arena Pacaembu. You can see adjustments and cushioning without any obligation.
São Paulo has many street races, with hundreds of events per year according to calendars from websites like Ativo and Esportividade, hence the action is concentrated there. Therefore, those who live nearby have a better chance.
How does the Nike Running Truck work in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro?
At the Nike Running Truck, you can register on the Nike website or go directly to the event. In São Paulo, it's located in Ibirapuera Park on weekends, with trained teams to guide the tests.
There, you choose the model based on your foot type and running board. You run a little, feel the shoe, and return it. It's free and quick, ideal for deciding on purchases.
How to use ASICS House and the loan truck
ASICS House is a fixed location in São Paulo for loaning pairs of shoes. You can go in, register quickly, and try on several pairs. The truck then transports the same models to nearby parks.
Imagine a Saturday at Pacaembu: grab a Megablast, run on the track, and see if it fits into your workout. All for free, and you'll leave with some great ideas for future purchases.
Which apps let you test sneakers at home?
Product testing programs send sneakers directly to your door, free of charge. You wear them in your daily workouts and answer online questionnaires for the brand.
At adidas, the global program works like this: you register on the website, enter your measurements and favorite sports. If they choose you, you receive a new pair, wear them for a few weeks, and send feedback on comfort and durability.
How does adidas product testing work?
On the adidas website, create a tester profile. Enter your current running shoes, the distances you run, and any common problems, such as knee pain.
Therefore, the brand makes its choice based on that. The customer receives the product, uses it, and fills out an online survey. It's a time-consuming way to test, but it guarantees a complete evaluation.
Clubs and media projects seeking testers.
Clubs like Eu Atleta or projects on brand networks are looking for testers. You sign up by email and wait for invitations to races or training sessions with equipment on loan.
These clubs bring runners together in cities like Belo Horizonte and Porto Alegre. Follow the brand's Instagram profile and respond to open posts for specific tests.
Almost free trials: is it worth paying for sneaker credit?
At events where you pay a low fee to try the product and get credit towards a purchase, it's worthwhile if you plan to buy something. It's practically free because you spend very little at the beginning.
The Olympikus "Bota Pra Testar" project in Salvador works like this: you pay around R$ 50 at the Registration Center and run with models like the "Corre Turbo". Then, that fee becomes credit at the partner store.
According to IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), inflation in personal items, including footwear, has been squeezing family budgets for years, leaving consumers more open to credit programs and trial purchases.
How do events with fees that turn into credit work?
Register for the event, pay the fee upfront, and test the shoes in a guided run. At the end, if you buy them, you get a refund of what you spent on registration.
In the case of Olympikus, it's simple: run around town, feel the model, and decide if it's worth taking home with the discount. They help undecided runners save money.
For whom does it make sense to pay to test sneakers?
If you run a lot and want to test a specific model for races, it's worth paying a little extra. For example, if you plan to buy expensive running shoes and don't have any free options nearby.
But if there are food trucks nearby or online options, you can avoid extra fees. Think about your budget: if the credit covers a good portion of the price, it's worth it.
How can I apply and increase my chances of being selected?
To register, follow brand websites and fill out forms. Create profiles on running apps to showcase your history as a potential tester.
He cites that, according to the IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), around 301% of Brazilians engage in walking or running as their primary physical activity, highlighting the high competition for limited spots. Therefore, he dedicates time to completing the registration process.
Keep an eye on the Nike website for Running Truck registration, fill out the Eu Atleta Club registration form via email, and follow brand and influencer profiles that have occasional openings. That way, good opportunities will arise.
In addition to websites, they use social media to track campaigns. On both Instagram and Facebook, brands post when they open registrations for specific tests.
Step-by-step guide to registering for the main programs.
First, go to the brand's website, such as nike.com or asics.com, and search for "running truck" or "product testing." Fill in your name, email, and details like your shoe size.
Next, confirm your registration and wait to be contacted. For adidas, enter your favorite sport and training frequency. Repeat this process in other programs for more chances.
Tips for standing out among many subscribers.
He shows he's active: he posts photos of his runs on social media and tags the brand. He demonstrates that he's a real runner, not just interested in a free trial.
Participate in small events beforehand. For example, join local running groups to gain visibility. This way, brands see you as an engaged tester.
What should you look for when testing a pair of running shoes?
During testing, note the cushioning, stability, and breathability of the shoe. Run on varied terrain to see how it absorbs impacts and accelerations.
For example, try the Pegasus 41 on the Nike truck and assess whether the fit across the instep is comfortable, especially on laps on the track or bike path. Studies link the wrong choice to pain, so pay close attention.
He mentions studies from websites like Eu Atleta and G1 that link the wrong shoes to a higher risk of knee and ankle pain in recreational runners, reinforcing the importance of paying attention to the test. He uses a checklist to record sensations.
Quick checklist to use during the test drive.
Note the cushioning: how well does the shoe absorb each step? Check stability: does it turn on your foot when you bend over? Observe the fit: is it too tight in the heel?
Breathing test: do your feet get too hot without socks? And the answer: does it accelerate well uphill? This checklist helps you decide without a doubt.
How to decide if the model is really right for you.
Compare it to your current running shoes. If you feel more comfortable over long distances, that's a good sign. Take your weight and foot strike into account to determine if you want a neutral or stable shoe.
After the test, think about future races. If you need lightweight shoes for sprints, consider performance; for marathons, prioritize durability. Choose carefully.
Common questions about free tennis trials
Many people have questions about whether to keep the sneakers or what the limits are. Usually, they're returned; it's not a free gift, but a chance to evaluate them.
For testing outside of capital cities, there are fewer options, but specialized stores in medium-sized cities offer test runs on weekends. According to running websites, activations are concentrated in capital cities, but stores are already partnering with other cities.
Can you test shoes with carbon plates? Yes, see if the brand includes them in the events. Limit? Usually none, but it depends on demand.
Can I keep the shoes after the test?
Generally not, because testers want feedback, not direct sales. You use it and return it, but you gain knowledge to buy it if you like it.
There are rare exceptions in special product testing, where they sometimes give away a pair. But in general, it's a temporary loan.
Are there free tests available outside of capital cities?
Yes, in cities like Curitiba or Fortaleza, brands partner with stores for test runs. Check local websites and networks for the schedule.
Regional clubs organize loans in local parks. Participating in groups for announcements increases your chances.
In short, it's possible to try on sneakers for free at trucks and brand stores, through tester programs and product testing, as well as at events with almost free credit. Remember to follow the brands' websites and social media, register properly, and use a simple checklist to evaluate each model on your foot.
Tell us in the comments or on the blog's social media if you've ever participated in a sneaker test, in which city and with which brand, and leave specific questions about registration or model evaluation. We'll answer them in future content.
