The Best Running Shoes for Everyday Use in 2023
On the go? Here are the best running shoes for hybrid life-run use.
In today's market, running shoes are highly specialized tools that are designed for a specific mission. We have max cushioned cruisers for the easy miles of marathon training, uptempo shoes for speedy track workouts and carbon-plated racers for reaching new levels of performance. However, there are also those versatile running shoes that can handle a bit of everything, from training to walking to errands. Here, we've gathered all the best running shoes that are also great for the sport of life.
The Best Running Shoes for Everyday Use
The best running shoes for everyday use are lightweight, versatile and don't have too much running-speific tech. Many running shoes today use max stacks of soft, cushioned foams and have pronounced rocker platforms. While these features are great for running, they're not ideal for shoes you'll be using for everyday use around town.
In general, you'll want to consider shoes in the daily trainer category of running shoes. These are designed for everyday running and are the most versatile for walking and gym use. In contrast, most recovery running shoes are soft and squishy with thick midsoles, which can be unstable for walking, and many uptempo and race day shoes have plates and snug uppers that are uncomfortable for anything other than running. Below, we've rounded up the best running shoes for everyday use that blend performance, aesthetics and comfort.
1. Nike Pegasus 40 ($130): Best Overall for Everyday Use
The Nike Pegasus 40 is a great blend of style, comfort and performance in an affordable package. It's lightweight on foot, has a padded upper that's comfortable for walking around and it can also handle all types of runs. While it doesn't have the most exciting ride compared to some other daily trainers, the Pegasus is a durable and reliable workhorse whose utility transcends running.
Nike Pegasus 40
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2. Tracksmith Eliot Runner ($200): Best Looking Running Shoe for Everyday Use
The Tracksmith Eliot Runner is a performance-oriented everyday running shoe with features that make it great for walking and casual wear. It has a thick insole made from supercritical PEBA, a soft and bouncy compound, that provides a great step-in feel and cushioned platform for walking while also delivering a peppy performance out on the run. The design is also top-notch, with the Boston-based running brand staying true to their timeless New England aesthetics. If you're willing to pay $200, you'll be getting a well-rounded running shoe whose versatility is as awesome as its aesthetics.
Tracksmith Eliot Runner
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3. Hoka Clifton 9 ($140): Best Hoka Running Shoe for Everyday Use
If you're looking for a dedicated Hoka running shoe that will also be comfortable for errands and walking around town, the Clifton 9 is a great choice. It uses Hoka's traditional compression-molded EVA, which provides enough structured cushioned for walking and standing while delivering a decently responsive ride when running. The ride isn't the most exciting or speedy, but the Clifton is a reliable shoe that can flex to be a training partner or walking companion. Plus, Hoka makes the Clifton in a ton of colorways that can match any aesthetic you're looking to hit.
Hoka Clifton 9
4. On Cloudstratus 3 ($180): Best On Running Shoe for Everyday Use
The On Cloudstratus 2 was one of the first running shoes from On that delivered real-deal running performance along with the brand's trademark comfort and style. The Cloudstratus 3 keeps that formula and makes minor updates to the upper, midsole foam and looks. The shoe has a moderate rocker that makes it great for everyday running and moderate to fast efforts, but the platform is stable enough for walking, standing and casual use. At $180, you'll be paying a $40+ premium over the Asics, Saucony and Nike options on this list, but that's what you get for Swiss engineering.
5. Saucony Ride 16 ($140): Best Traditional Running Shoe for Everyday Use
The Saucony Ride 16 is a daily trainer with a firm and snappy feel. On the run, it's great for everything from easy jogs around the neighborhood to the structured workouts of marathon training. The midsole is an EVA-based compound called PWRRUN that performs well for running while also being comfortable enough for walking and casual use. The colorways and aesthetics aren't as sleek as an On or Hoka, but the Ride 16 is the most run-oriented of the batch if running is your primary use case.
Saucony Ride 16
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6. Puma Velocity Nitro 2 ($120): Most Affordable Running Shoe for Everyday Use
The Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is the no-nonsense daily trainer in the Puma lineup. It has a dual-foam construction, using a full-length layer of soft supercritical Nitro foam on top of another full-length bed of standard EVA. The Nitro provides a peppy and responsive feel when running anf pushing the pace, while the EVA adds stability and makes this a good opton for walking and everyday use. There's also a generous covering of PumaGrip rubber, which is famed for its traction and durability. At $120, the versatility and run performance makes this a great buy.
7. Altra Paradigm 7 ($170): Best Stability Running Shoe for Everyday Use
If you need a stable shoe for running and walking, the Altra Paradigm 7 is a great choice that blends on-foot comfort with running performance. It uses Altra's standard zero drop platform, meaning that the heel height is the same as the forefoot, which the brand uses to help promote a natural foot position. The Paradigm also has guidance built into the sides of the shoe to help hold the foot in place and promote stable landings.
Altra Paradigm 7
8. New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3 ($130): Best Fast Running Shoe for Everyday Use
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3 is a bouncy and streamlined training shoe that can also double for casual use. The Rebel uses New Balance's supercritical FuelCell foam which is also found in their racing shoes and performance trainers. Here, the stack is relatively low, which allows a more natural feel on foot when walking and wearing casually. On the ride, the Rebel feels fast and lightweight. It has just enough cushion to tackle long runs while being nimble enough for speedwork as well as casual use.
New Balance Rebel v3
Final Thoughts
When searching for a running shoe to play a hybrid run-casual role, look for shoes with minimal rockers and a firmer, lower-stacked foam. There are many great daily trainers on the market from top brands that fit this brief. If you'd like to explore more options, head to the Supwell running shoe marketplace to evaluate and compare based on specs like weight, foam type and more.
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