A decade ago, barefoot running and barely-there soles were hotter than a ticket to the Boston Marathon. But in the past few years, styles have swung back around. Runners have started to crave a bit more material between their feet and the ground. With more folks hitting the pavement these days, we wanted to highlight a few of our favourites to lighten the load on those ol’ joints. Whether you're looking for a dependable everyday trainer, or wanting to add another shoe into your rotation for those heavy leg days, these styles will add the protection and stability you are craving.
Hoka One One Bondi 6
Hoka made a big splash when it introduced the Bondi to the running world, and the latest version continues that trend. The Hoka Bondi 6 is a maximal running shoe that provides an unmatched combination of high-performance cushioning and stability. With the combination of an early-stage Meta-Rocker, a wider landing platform, and an oversized EVA midsole, the Bondi 6 helps increase running economy and promotes your foot roll through the gait cycle. For many of these features, the Bondi 6 is highly recommended in the medical community for accommodating orthotics and aiding in injury recovery. This is an ideal shoe for anyone looking for an ultra-cushioned, light, stable, high performance running shoe.
New Balance Fresh Foam More v2
Second on our list is the latest model from New Balance, the Fresh Foam More v2. More, as in Fresh Foam cushioning than ever seen before in a New Balance shoe. The second iteration of the More series from New Balance gets updated with a sleek new upper making it lighter and less bulky than its predecessor. With a more rigid rocker profile, these are cushioned mattresses built to protect your feet and joints.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10 continues to provide premium comfort with a fresh new look. Designed as an everyday running shoe the 1080v10 delivers enhanced softness and a more energetic rebound than its predecessor thanks to an updated Fresh Foam midsole. The shoe of choice for R&R Ambassador Lindsey Butterworth to tackle all the rigours of training, even 10th place at the World Track and Field Championships. If you're after a versatile shoe with premium comfort, these are for you.
Brooks Glycerin
For those looking for that soft, plush, durable ride — the Brooks Glycerin 18 is your shoe. The 18th iteration of the Glycerin line gets added stretch in the upper, with an engineered mesh 3D Fit print technology that surrounds your foot and moves to your unique stride. In addition, the Glycerin 18 gets a full-length ultra soft midsole. It features DNA Loft for even more plushness underfoot without losing responsiveness or durability during your run. If you're needing a little extra cushioning but not wanting to sacrifice that responsive feel— try the Glycerin 18 out.
Saucony Triumph 17
The 17th iteration of the Triumph line from Saucony gets a shoe ‘makeover’ — reinvented to be lighter and softer than ever before. Debuting its latest innovation, POWRRUN+ foam, Saucony packs a springy responsive feel that keeps you feeling fresh and strong even through your longest runs. The ‘plushness’ continues into the upper, updated with a new engineered mesh that cradles your foot. For those who crave luxurious comfort in a lightweight sleek design, the Saucony Triumph 17 is your perfect fit.
On Cloudstratus
Introducing On’s most cushioned running shoe to date, the Cloudstratus. For the first time, an On shoe features two layers of Helion-enriched CloudTec cushioning enhancing vertical and horizontal shock absorption. In other words, the ‘double double’ of On’s lineup, maximizing cushioning, providing you less impact and more running. For those who crave On’s Cloud cushioning but need a more structured ride, be sure to add the Cloudstratus into your lineup.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 22
Experience lasting comfort with the ASICS Gel Nimbus 22. Packed with technologies to improve the performance of neutral runners, this iteration of this running shoe delivers a blend of cushioning and a responsive stride, featuring a softer GEL® cushioning unit in the heel for excellent shock absorption. Designed with high mileage runners in mind, the Gel Nimbus 22 shoe implements more foam in the midsole to reduce the severity of harsh impact. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the Gel Nimbus 22 performance running shoe is designed to deliver soft cushioning and a more responsive stride.
Still not sure? Come into the store to try out your options with expert advice or shop online. You can even book a shoe fitting appointment or book a virtual shoe fitting to maximize your time.