There is no such thing as the perfect running shoe. When it comes to running, all sorts of things come into play such as your biomechanics, your weight, the surface you run on and the shape of your feet, meaning no one shoe will suit every kind of runner.

The aim in choosing footwear is simply to find shoes that stay out of your way, don’t intrude upon your run and just allow you to get on with it. The more experienced you become, the more you may look for a specific feature within a shoe as we all know comfort is key.

Here are some running shoes on the high-end fashion scale:

Concrete Crusader:

Designed for the road, the CloudTec technology of On’s Cloustratus sneakers makes running on concrete feel like running on, well, a cloud. Their lightweight, modern silhouettes create a sleek design without compromising the styles’ top-of-the-line energy return and cushioning, making them perfect for the New York City streets. Or, take a lap in APL’s Streamlines and test the styles designed to push you to move forward and faster

In for the Long Haul:

Durability, stability, and fine-tuned cushioning are key to finding the perfect running shoe for long distances. Whether running a 5K or prepping for a marathon, the extended heel geometry in Hoka One’s Bondi 7 is designed to provide a smoother impact, while Adidas’ Ultraboost 21 combines energy return and responsive technology to emulate that I-could-run-forever feeling.

Treading Lightly:

If you’re prone to seasonal allergies, it may be time to trade in the pavement for the treadmill belt. Opting for breathable, lightweight shoes with ample support will help counteract the repetitive stress on your body and garner the highest efficiency on your next run. Take Nike’s Epic Reacts, for example, equipped with high-performance capabilities and Copeland’s running shoe of choice.

Into the Woods:

Trail running is a different beast of its own, with unpredictable terrain at each stomp of the foot. Much like long-distance running, durable sneakers with stability technology are essential when searching for the perfect fit. Be sure to consider outsoles with gripping to enhance your ground connection and motion control, and keep you on your toes for the uneven surfaces just up the hill. Allbird’s latest release, the Trail Runner SWT, will certainly do the trick with trail traction inspired by the bulbous treads found on mountain bikes.

Published on HOLR Magazine.