The Chunkalicious Award
Every year shoes are turning back the clock to the ‘70s & ‘80s and getting more stacked. This category highlights the best in chunky and soft midsole running shoes of 2023. Be warned: once you slip on a pair of these luxuriously cushioned runners, it's hard to go back.
The Winner - Hoka Bondi 8
The Hoka Bondi 8 is max cushion royalty. The latest iteration manages to refine its look, still remain a neutral shoe but add some strong arch support and drop weight, for a plush, supportive fit. It continues to be your hard-working every day mileage, running or walking shoe, that provides remarkable comfort.
The Bondi 8 is also consistently recommended by podiatrists to our customers to promote foot health. Truly the crème de la crème of comfort and support that will keep your feet feeling fresh for long walks, 12 hour work days and plenty of lengthy runs.
The Runner Up - New Balance 840v1
A new shoe for New Balance, that is cozy soft and with some strong support. There’s a nice amount of volume for orthotic wearers that also comes in multiple widths. Thank you New Balance for treasuring all those blessed with wide feet.
If you are looking for a comfortable daily trainer or an all-day shoe, look no further than the 840v1. This shoe now also comes in leather, with a slip resistant outsole if you are looking for more support and protection.
The Strong as an Ox Award
Big changes have happened in the running industry recently, with shoes getting lighter, softer and more performance focused. Here at R&R we still appreciate those shoes we can trust to withstand everything we throw at them.
The Winner - Mizuno Wave Rider 27
This combines the elements of every good daily trainer. That list includes exceptional comfort, structure, consistency, and versatility. The outsole is designed for general road running and walking, however a little grippier tread, enhances safety for light trails and slipper conditions. It also includes extra pop in the arch and responsive feel for any type of run you desire. If you want a running shoe to do it all, the Mizuno Wave Rider 27 will not disappoint.
The Runner Up - Brooks Cascadia 17
Explore with confidence. The Brooks Cascadia 17 is a Land Rover in a running shoe silhouette. The outsole grip is trail ready and can adapt to any terrain. The cushion is soft but with their rockplate technology planted underfoot it keeps its structure for stable landings.
A great shoe to take on your long hikes and runs to destinations unknown. With winter weather in full swing, the Brooks Cascadia 17 also comes in a model with a waterproof GORE-TEX liner for added comfort and dry socks.
women's men'sBrooks Cascadia 17 Trail
Brooks Cascadia 17 Trail
The Best-Looking Award
These shoes don't just turn heads on the road; they make a statement wherever you go. Get ready for the envy of your running group as we present the footwear that effortlessly combines allure with functionality.
The Winner - On CloudSurfer 7
Aesthetically sleek and stylish, with a plush cushioned midsole, the On Cloudsurfer 7 gives you a buttery smooth ride to roll through the miles. A great daily trainer for easy miles and it passes my supermarket test – a test where I ask each shoe whether I can wear it elegantly and comfortably for everyday use. The On CloudSurfer 7 achieves all that and more.
men's women'sOn Cloudsurfer Running
On Cloudsurfer Running
The Runner Up - New Balance 990 V6
Aptly named the ‘dad’ shoe. It represents a timeless style that still packs a bunch of substance. A comfortable blend of suede leather and mesh molds to your foot the more you wear it and feels sturdy and stable for day-to-day activities and light workouts.
A guaranteed fan favorite for our staff here at R&R who enjoy the stylish versatility and support the New Balance 990V6 offers. Lastly, if you are looking to take some steps to be more environmentally conscious, the 990v6 is manufactured only in North America.
women's men'sNew Balance 990 V6
New Balance 990 V6
The Swiss Army Knife Award
With the ability to adapt to any situation, this award is given to the pair of shoes seen as most versatile in our lineup. Capable of handling everything from a walk in the park to the demands of a marathon build.
The Winner - New Balance 880 v13
Reliability is the name of the game with the New Balance 880v13. It continues to be a dependable workhorse for a variety of workouts. A very natural feeling running shoe with a plush cushion and a supportive fit, and for those in need it also comes in multiple widths. Whether you are just getting into running, a seasoned pro or want a running shoe that doesn't get in your way, the 880 has you covered.
The Runner Up - Brooks Ghost 15
If you are a seasoned runner, you have probably laced up some Brooks Ghosts, or if this review is the catalyst for you getting more active, this shoe is a great place to start. A supremely comfortable, lightweight and stable daily trainer.
With the trend of running shoes getting chunkier midsoles and rockered platforms, the Brooks Ghost stays loyal to its foundation, delivering moderate cushioning and a plush stretchy upper that in tandem provides a delightfully accessible running shoe for a variety of running workouts and walks.
Keeping You Grounded
This award goes to the running shoes that offer a helping hand to those who need some added arch support for those who over-pronate, falling arches, flexible ankles or balance issues.
The Winner - Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
A true staple in the Stability category, and a worthy winner. With a cradle-like fit, and a Guide Rail technology that runs around your arch, much like the bumpers at the bowling alley, they offer similar guidance to your running/walking gait cycle when you need it. A great versatile option for all activities that gives you the confidence to do it all.
The Runner Up - New Balance 860 v13
Another great option for over pronators and runners with flexible ankles. A secure upper and strong arch support keeps your joints in check with a plush, but responsive cushion that delivers excellent toe offs through your running cycle. Similar to the Adrenaline GTS 23 it is a real workhorse that is comfortable for day to day activities and feels efficient, but structurally sound for any type of run.
new-balance-fresh-foam-x-860-v13-2e-width-running
That's it for our running shoe awards this year!
If you want to see which shoes didn't make the cut but are still superb choices, you can visit us in-store or check them out online.
Happy Holidays!
