The Best Shoes for Every Workout this Spring

For the long-distance runner

What’s holding you back from reaching the finish line? The Fresh Foam 1080 offers more cushioning and more support so you can focus on logging kms. If you’re familiar with Fresh Foam, this is the brand’s most cushioned midsole yet.

“These lightweight, yet support supportive running shoes were exactly what my feet needed. I tested them in the first few months of my pregnancy and the additional cushioning was much appreciated. Once I’m back in racing form, these will be my go-to for half marathon training.” – Melissa Greer, Web Editor

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080, $190, newbalance.ca

For a spring in your stride

No matter how fast or slow you go, every runner can use an extra bounce in her step. The new UltraBOOST shoe features a distinctive adaptive arch and a narrower heel, which is designed to give female runners the increased support her foot naturally needs. Plus, the Ultraboost midsole was created to be durable in all temperatures; making this a shoe that can outrun whatever Mother Nature has in store, freak Canadian spring snow storms included.

Adidas Ultra Boost X, $240, adidas.ca

For the speed demon

Thanks to its lightweight design and ultra-cushioned midsole, these kicks are a new go-to for runners looking to pick up the pace. The UA SpeedForm Gemini 3 also features a construction mold, which creates a precise fit for your foot. This feature ensures that each step feels as good as the last.

“In my experience, these are the rare kind of magical shoes that don’t need to be broken into (no blisters, here) and you can comfortably go for a run as soon as you lace up. After a few wears, you can see how durable these shoes are, making this pair an essential running shoe to have in your rotation.” -Angela Serednicki, Assistant Web Editor

Women’s UA SpeedForm Gemini 3, $160, underarmour.ca

For the regular pavement pounder

Saucony has taken its midsole to a new level with the introduction of EVERUN Continuous Cushioning, which offers an extra layer of cushioning as well as a heel pad. Are you a heel striker? This shoe is for you.

Meanwhile, the rubber outsole offers both traction and durability–perfect for multiple loops around the track or your neighbourhood.

Saucony Women’s Freedom ISO in Blue/Citron, $200, saucony.ca

For the distance runner

This slip-on running shoe offers a snug, seamless fit. The sole support was designed based on the pressure points of a runner’s foot in motion, so that your foot gets the cushioning it needs.

“First, the shoe is gorgeous. Running shoes with a white sole are my M.O., but the Flyknit stitching speckled with colour adds a cool dimension to the design. As for wear, it’s very comfortable on the pavement. The toe splay is reasonable. The soft upper will help me avoid black toe, something I tend to get despite trying to avoid it. And the collar part of the shoe – the plush area around the ankle – is made to move in. I hate when shoes are too high and rub the back of my foot. It’s the first running shoe I didn’t have to ‘break in’ to make them comfortable.” -Lisa Hannam, Web Editor

Nike LunarEpic Low Flyknit 2, $215, nike.com

For the streetstyle walker

This walking sneaker brings together style and comfort. Constructed of neoprene and mesh fabric, the sporty look pairs nicely with a slip-on design.

“My favourite feature is the elastic laces. There’s no knot and these kicks look so stylish without floppy tied-up laces. It takes a touch of effort to slip them on, but that’s because the fit is snug. The heel-to-toe movement is smooth for walking, and the ‘memory foam’ is seriously comfy. I could wear these all day – and I have.” -Lisa Hannam, Web Editor

Skechers Microburst Supersonic, $95, ca.skechers.com

For a natural stride

Brooks went back to basics in all the right ways with this neutral and lightweight running shoe. It earns top marks from us for its ultra-comfortable sock-like fit.

Brooks Pureflow 6, $130, brooksrunning.com

Reebok Women’s Zoku Runner

Lightweight knit with a supportive sole, these stylish runners have a high abrasion rubber outsole, for increased traction and a more durable shoe. A DMX Lite midsole cushion adds a softer step. They also feature an OrthoLite insole, which not only assists with their note-worthy cushioning but breathability, and moisture management (a must for sweaty feet).

“These runners are so comfortable and cute, I’ll be wearing them just about everywhere. However, they’re such a supportive, flexible, solid running shoe that everyday wear would be underutilizing their capabilities. Still, I can’t help but continue to fawn over the aesthetics of this shoe – I just feel so cool wearing them.” –Courtney Reilly-Larke, assistant editor

For the ones who need support

The 10th-edition of the Ride franchise, this new shoe has a very cushiony sole with a newly designed mesh upper and woven collar. Lightweight with an eight-millimetre drop, this shoe is meant for a comfortable run.

“I like how this is a throwback look with the tonal blues. To hold in your hand, this is a surprisingly light shoe. And with its thick sole and high neck, I kind of expected my feet to cramp – I am more of a minimalist fan myself. But this was a very comfortable shoe, which I wore on one of the most uncomfortably hot runs of the summer. But the traction on various surfaces was a big plus and my lack of blisters was too.” –Lisa Hannam, Web Editor

Saucony Ride 10, $159.99, saucony.com