With brands like Nike, Adidas and Reebok tapping on the likes of musicians and personalities like Travis Scott, Kylie Jenner and Ariana Grande respectively, it’s clear that sneakers are no longer strictly for the gym. They’re practically lifestyle wear now.
These days, footwear engineers and designers are working even harder to produce shoes that don’t just appeal aesthetically. Instead, they’re focusing on shoes that can go the distance and double up on functionality.
Here, we bring you some of the latest sneakers that do just that. Don’t worry though, no dad sneakers in sight, we promise!
READ MORE:
How To Curb Your Sugar Intake
11 Easy Ways You Can Exercise Even When Busy
How To Keep Fit And Lose Weight At Work
The first thing you’ll notice about the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 is that, it’s got a thicker midsole than most shoes and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
To create this shoe, Nike gathered feedback from athletes, including Mo Farah, one of the UK’s most renowned long-distance runners.
With feedback and recommendations, Nike decided to design a shoe using the brand’s Zoom Air and Cushlon foam, cushioning feet for a more comfortable run and making it light enough so even non-athletes can go even faster.
Putting comfort at the forefront of the design process, the Pegasus 35 also has a breathable mesh upper and has manufactured the back of the shoe such that it minimises friction burn and blisters on your Achilles heel.
Think this lightweight shoe might be too flimsy for a high intensity workout? We’re glad to say that besides running, we’ve taken the shoe for a spin on a boxing-HIIT class and it was stable enough to withstand all the floor work we had to do; convincing us that it’s actually more versatile than most would think.
$199 on Nike.com
As one of the lightest pairs of running shoes with the latest React technology, the foam is supposedly designed to be softer, bouncier and longer-lasting.
The Flyknit material creates a snug fit, or — as Nike describes it — “a hug-like feel”. The khaki green shade stands out and will go well with any military-inspired #ootd. Consider going down one size for the right fit.
$229 on Nike.com
We’ll admit that what attracted us to the ASICS HyperGEL was the funky looking midsoles. The shoe, available in while, black and grey uppers are accompanied by a spotted midsoles thanks to its HyperGEL technology.
However, the HyperGEL midsole does more than just look pretty. ASICS integrates both its foam and GEL technologies to offer about 30 per cent more bounce and cushioning than your standard EVA foam shoes.
What makes the shoe even more impressive is that, it was tested and developed at the Institute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan — so you know a lot of research has gone into creating a shoe like this one.
If you’re purchasing the shoe, take note that its cut and MONO-SOCK design means that it fits more snugly than most other shoes. So, size up!
$159 from ASICS
The latest Fresh Form Cruz Sport has a lightweight upper mesh against a plastic shoelace cage with the classic “N” logo cut out on both sides, creating a modern appeal with its contrasting textures.
Perfect for those looking for a pair easy to wear, fuss-free, less structured and comfortable running shoes that can also double up as a fashion accessory.
$139 from New Balance
When one thinks of Crossfit, Reebok comes to mind.
This model is the latest and improved version of the Nanotechnology and is incorporated with the newly launched Flexweave, a new woven technology to provide enhanced breathability, flexibility and durability.
If they are proven to be good enough to meet the demands of the Crossfit champs, they are definitely good enough for the everyday gym bunny. The shoes are versatile and are great for HIIT, weight lifting, callisthenics and obstacle course style of training.
$189 from Reebok
If you like Zumba, BodyJam or dancing, these shoes are for you. Reebok is one of the few brands that actually have a dedicated range of dance and studio shoes.
These seamless booties are engineered with neoprene for comfort, moulded with Ortholite sockliner for responsive cushioning, and designed with a mid-cut to offer improved stability and extra ankle support.
Dance like no one is watching but know your Hayasu will be getting the limelight, both in the studio and on the streets.
$120 from Reebok
The other half of the HOVR range, Sonic, is the lighter variant that long-distance runners may prefer.
Like the brand’s HOVR Phantom, its micro thread upper body dries fast and provides a breathable, compression-like fit with its mesh construction to deliver comfort and directional strength.
This is a good option for those who are not a fan of sockliner styles and prefer a more conventional style of sneakers.
$179 from Under Armour
Adidas described these as ultra-cushioned shoes for the serious runner, but it’s easy to see how the design would also appeal to sneakerheads and fashionistas.
Engineered with Boost technology for the most responsive cushioning, the shoes also feature a unique adaptive arch that moulds to the shape of the foot for a compression fit.
Two design features set these shoes apart from the other knit and sockliner styles — the sturdy plastic shoelace cage, and the disconnection between the arch of the Primeknit upper shoe and the midsection of the sole.
This is definitely a pair of running shoes with lots of style and individuality.
$340 from Adidas
Constructed with Boost technology, these super fashionable slip-ons look very much like what a modern day ninja warrior would wear.
They have highly responsive midsoles that absorb the force from your foot strike to deliver an energy-fuelled push off. Knit upper and wraparound bands provide an adaptive compression fit.
$240 from Adidas
This shoe model is named 247 because it is supposedly so comfy that you would want to wear it 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
This is the new premium version of New Balance’s best selling sneaker, featuring a luxe suede leather upper and stretch sock construction.
We tested it out with a strength training session followed by a samba dance class and they were comfortable throughout both.
Approx. $149 from New Balance
Text: Atika Lim Additional Reporting: Marie Choo/SHAPE