Trainers, sneakers, joggers… whatever you call them, the world of kicks can be tricky to navigate, especially if it’s not your go-to shoe. However regardless of where you’re at on your health and fitness journey, or whether you’re keen to simply wear them for a good walk around the block, a great pair of sneakers should be an essential part of your everyday wardrobe.
Wondering which brand is the best for running shoes? Between your HIIT classes, hot girl walks and everything in between, we’ve pulled together the ultimate guide to suit just about any lifestyle.
Best all-rounder running shoes
If you’re not sure where to begin, the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 ticks a lot of the right boxes. Aimed at providing a holistic approach to running, it provides a moderate level of support with maximum amount of cushion. It’s also loaded with innovative technology to help you steady your stride and improve shock absorption.
This all-rounder is praised for its super-soft cushioning for the ultimate support. Kitted out with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 technology to be mega-plush and lightweight, the new and improved sneaker has been engineered for a better fit. Plus it comes in a range of colours so you can look good at the same time.
A favourite among the running community, the Ultraboost is incredibly lightweight, perfect for everyday wear. Adidas’ BOOST cushioning technology reduces fatigue no matter distance you’re running, and is an all-round comfortable sneaker designed to handle any kind of track condition.
Best running shoes for everyday walking
The classic HOKA is reimagined for the 9th time. This new iteration promises a more paired back version compared to years past, removing unnecessary weight and overlays to create a lighter and more cushioned sneaker for everyday wear.
Want to take your walking off-road? The XT-6 is the ideal running shoe for rugged terrain like bushwalking or hiking, as well as trail running. You’ll feel nice and secure with the supportive fit and lacing system, while Salomon’s Advanced Chassis technology will help absorb shock and reduce strain on your feet and joints.
Anyone who owns a pair of New Balance knows just how comfortable they are for walking. The ABZORB midsole and the Fresh Foam X technologies make for cloud-like wear while providing exceptional shock absorption and plenty of cushion.
Best sneakers for the fashion girlies
One for the more fashionably-inclined, Flower Mountain uses Japanese fabrics and fun designs to bring trekking and camping to the mainstream. Despite being a quote-unquote mountain trekking shoe, the intricate patterns and Japanese-style aesthetics makes it a super cool sneaker, even if you’re just popping down to the shops.
Made famous by Uma Thurman in Tarantino classic, Kill Bill, Onitsuka Tigers ooze cool girl vibes. The reinvented SD model takes elements from the original Mexico 66 like the tiger stripes and takes them to new heights. Keep your eye out for the new colours that have just dropped!
It’s not a sneakers roundup if the iconic Gazelle sneakers aren’t included. Now available in just about every colour combination under the sun, the Adidas Gazelle has maintained its it-girl status with no signs of slowing down. If you’ve already got a pair or two, the Sambas are also a great option for everyday elevated wear.
Best running shoes for the gym
No, lululemon doesn’t just sell Align leggings. Designed for both running and training, the Chargefeel is the perfect shoe to take you from your 5KM run to your weighted lunges. It has been carefully crafted for optimal comfort with a dual-density midsole for total versatility in the gym.
You rarely stick to just one form of exercise in the gym – so you need a shoe that can move with you. The ON Cloud X3 is the ‘everything’ shoe you’ve been looking for. It’s ultralight and responsive yet features an improved fit with 3-layer mesh and CloudTec® to support every type of workout.
Created in 1917, there’s a reason why the Converse Chuck Taylor is still around after all these years. Originally designed as a basketball shoe, did you know it also makes a great weight lifting shoe? Its low profile and flat grippy sole creates a stable and secure base for weight training.
What are the best sneakers you can buy?
This is a subjective question. The best sneaker often depends on what you’re looking for in your shoe, how you’ll be using it, your foot alignment, the arch of your foot and even aspects such as colour palette. All or some of these aspects will determine the best shoe for you. Our picks above sum up every option, and then some.
What are the top 5 sneaker brands?
In no particular order, the most popular five brands are Adidas, Puma, Nike, Reebok, and ASICS. That isn’t to say, though, that other brands aren’t worthy of a great gander. Take a look around and see what best meets your needs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
What is the next sneaker trend?
The slim sneaker, with a softer, less imposing silhouette is set to hit stores and wallets in the future. The antithesis of the chunkier ‘dad’ sneaker that we’re seeing presently.
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