We’re back for our second edition of the Rundies — awards bestowed by us, Rackets & Runners, honouring the products that went above and beyond expectations.
Without further adieu, we present…
The Most Chunkalicious Award
Every year this category gets bigger and bigger (midsole pun intended) as more of these MAXIMALIST shoes become commonplace in the running industry. This category highlights the best in chunky, thick-soled, cushioned running shoes — the most ‘chunkalicious’ if you may. Warning: these shoes cause instant ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ when trying on.
1. Hoka One One Bondi 7
The Rundie for the Most Chunkalicious goes to the Hoka One One Bondi 7. This model continues to redefine the standards of what cushioned running shoes can become. Truck loads of cushioning maximize shock absorption and minimize stress on your body.
2. New Balance Fresh Foam More v2
The New Balance Fresh Foam More fills up our second place for the Most Chunkalicious. NB packed this shoe with the most Fresh Foam cushioning the world has ever seen and it even comes in a trail version. Well done New Balance! In this case, more is always better.
Shop Mens | Shop Womens | Shop Trail
3. On Cloudstratus
Rounding out our top three for our Most Chunkalicious goes to the On Cloudstratus. The ‘double double’ of On’s lineup features two layers of helion-enriched Cloudtec cushioning making these Ons their most cushioned running shoe to date. Kevin 'Kind of a Big Deal' Christensen swears by them and so should you.
The Hottest in the Office Award
The next award goes to a pair of shoes that really lights up the office. Somebody we can't stop checking out. The Hottest in the Office award goes to...
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
A staple in Nike's lineup, the Pegasus has redefined the aesthetic of an everyday running shoe since 1983. Continuing that trend into 2021, the Pegasus 37 is hard to beat. Even available in a trail version so you can earn your wings on the path less travelled.
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Shop Mens | Shop Womens | Shop Trail
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.
1. New Balance Fresh Foam 880v10
The New Balance Fresh Foam 880 is the litmus test of a running shoe at our store. Looking for a quality, dependable, solid running shoe? See how the 880 feels and go from there. You could just pick this shoe and leave the store because you’ll be good to go. It's our top selling shoe for good reason.
2. On Cloud
Like the Swiss Army Knife is to Switzerland, the design and function of the On Cloud is becoming synonymous with versatility, comfort and style in the running industry. Worn on Olympic podiums and Parisian catwalks, these sneaks are in a league of their own. Get yourself a pair or three more if you don’t have one or three already.
3. Brooks Ghost 13
Rounding out our top three choices for our Swiss Army Knife Award is the Brooks Ghost. We dare you to hop into a pair of these and not immediately ‘run happy’. Softer, and more plush than our other two finalists, the Brooks Ghost is a proven option for someone looking for a dependable shoe to tackle everyday mileage.
The Four Wheeler Award
The Four Wheeler Rundie highlights the best of the best in trail running shoes. Whether they were your guide to the road less travelled or a dog walking companion, these kicks can conquer everything the great Pacific Northwest has to offer.
1. Brooks Cascadia 15
2. ASICS Gel-Fujitrabuco Lyte
3. Saucony Peregrine 10
The Peregrine rounds out the third spot in The Four Wheeler Rundie Award. It's a perfect lightweight alternative to the traditional clunky trail running shoe.
Want to see which shoes didn't make the cut but are still good choices, shop our entire running collection online or visit us in-store.