Best Fashion Running Shoes Reviewed

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Merrell All Out Terra
Test Winner: Merrell All Out Terra
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When choosing running shoes most serious runners will choose performance, comfort, and durability over fashion and style every day and twice on Sundays, and that's the way it should be. But studies have proven that people who like the way they look in their running gear run more often and for longer distances than those who don't. Plus, shoe companies have come a long way in the style department and with more options available now than ever before there's no reason not to have shoes for running that both look and perform great. We checked out the most stylish options from the top brands and chose the ten that best mixed performance with fashion.

Standout Picks

Available for men and women, these are another great shoes from Nike. The designs here are fairly minimal, but they do look very nice. Of all of the options on this list, they are perhaps the shoe which looks least like they are designed for exercise - you could wear these anywhere and no-one would know that they are running shoes. These shoes have very good arch support and give a great bounce on the sole. The heel on these is pretty high, which also gives good support during exercise. These shoes are also very lightweight.
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The style of these is more extreme athlete than calm and cool, but that's what some people are looking for. If you're looking to look as fast as you are these are a good option. They also perform really well and come from a well-respected name in the running world.
This Swiss brand is known for making high-quality shoes that meet the high standards of elite endurance athletes. We love the modern understated style that's available in ten different colorways for you to choose from. These shoe's performance goes beyond style though, and this lightweight option gets good reviews for its comfort, traction, and durability.
This stylish option gets great reviews for its comfort and affordability. They offer neutral support so they're good for runners transitioning to natural running shoes as well as those who are looking for a good second pair of running shoes to try out. The brand has become well known for their excellent running shoes and this offering is no exception. They're also good for runners with high arches.
Amazon Link
Again, these are available for both men and women. They come in many different designs – some block colors, some more psychedelic, but they’re all very aesthetic. These have a very lightweight flyknit design, so you can run with versatility and freedom. They are one of the most flexible shoes currently on the market. The shape of the shoe is designed to mirror the natural movement of the foot, which ensures and promotes a more natural running pattern and a natural foot strike. Despite this, you still get good cushion and support here. They also offer good breathability.
Amazon Link
These have a huge range of colors and designs, so if you’re a fashionista looking for variety, you’ll find it with these. Another neutral shoe, these have a lightweight mesh upper, wire cables for added foot support and good underfoot protection. The material also offers good flexibility and bounce, so they’re a good all-around shoe for a comfortable road run.
Amazon Link
These have a distinctive design, so if you’re looking for something to make you stand out, they might be a good buy. They come in ten different designs and have reflective features, useful if you like run at night. The shoes have a unique pump button to provide if needed, extra support and cushion to the heel. The outsole is inspired by tyres to offer good traction.
Amazon Link
These are smart and understated, with a very nice simplistic design. The heel and ankle both have good support, so they’re suitable for anyone seeking a little extra protection. They also have a good grip on the sole, so they’re appropriate for road running and casual running, but like most fashion shoes, they won’t offer support for trail running or anything equally intense. Like most of Adidas’ products, they are very robust, are comfortable and will last a long time.
Amazon Link
These come in five varieties, from subtle to bright, and they are a nice sleek design. They have a mesh design and good cushion, though they aren’t quite as light as other options. They are a good comfortable option if you like to run short distances, and the broad sole gives good support for the feet and knees.
Amazon Link
These are great for trail runners, with an excellent grip on the outsole and good protection against the elements. All of the attractive and colorful designs come with reflective details for those who run in dark conditions, and the toe guard provides an extra shield for particularly intense runs. If you’re seeking a trail running shoe that looks good, you’re in luck!
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Fit

Not that long ago, if you were looking for a set of great running shoes, that you could also wear to run errands in a casual look and feel amazing, you had very limited options. Today, performance and lifestyle are no longer found in two different aisles in the sports store or website, you can buy trainers that you can keep not only in your locker but also in your wardrobe.

Companies like Nike, Adidas, Rebook and New Balance, among many others, are designing the best-performing trainers to look great and fashionable. You no longer have to pick one or the other. If you are a runner, you may no longer choose a pair of cool New Balance 574s (designed in 1988), as well as if you want to have a casual look wearing trainers, you have more options than you Adidas White Stan Smiths (designed in 1963). Limits between performance and fashion are becoming blurrier than ever before.

Style

If you are a person that like monochromatic colors for your outfits, then some minimal design fashion trainers, like the Nike Rosherun or the Adidas ZX Flux, maybe the best for you. If you are into colorful outfits, then most of the brands and models can suit your style perfectly. As a quick fact, that may inspire you, Mintel, a world-leading market intelligence agency, declared that for the first time ever, sales of trainers have overtaken high heels in the UK.

When it comes to fashionable running shoe color can be an important factor to think about. Colors can be useful to match your shoe to your outfit and complete your fashionable look. But the color you choose can also help keep you safe while you are out and about on a run. Brighter colors not only can look great but they can make your visible in lower light conditions, thus keeping you safe. Our team of shoe experts tested every show on our list and we tried to include as many options as we could that offered several color options so you can easily find what you are looking for in your quest for fashion running shoes!

Use

Think about the main reason for buying your new trainers. How of a serious runner or a casual runner are you? What’s the weather in the place where you live? What are the conditions of the terrain where you run? Are you actually going to run with your new trainers? Asking yourself those questions is a good start to understand what kind of trainers you are looking for.

Think about the terrain of the place where you like to run. Which season are you in? Do you need shoes that suit a paved road, or do you take your running to off-road trails? For example, if you’re going to wear the same trainers for the rest of the day after having a run in the morning, you may need a lightweight pair with good ventilation.
The durability of your trainers is something you need to have in mind as well; if you are planning to use them all the time, they will wear-off quicker and should bring more support to your feet. It is always necessary to consider the best options in ethical footwear. It is important for global sustainability to buy recycled, organic and fair trade sourced footwear.

Comfort

Regardless of the unique qualities of your feet, you want to be comfortable when you run. With this in mind, there is way more than your shoe size to consider when purchasing a new pair of running shoes. You should also think about your foot width, if and how you pronate, your natural foot strike, and your arches (or lack thereof). These all play an important role in finding the perfect pair of shoes for you!

Top 10 Stylish Running Shoes Reviewed

1. Nike Roshe Run

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Nike Roshe Run
Amazon Link

Available for men and women, these are another great shoes from Nike. The designs here are fairly minimal, but they do look very nice. Of all of the options on this list, they are perhaps the shoe which looks least like they are designed for exercise - you could wear these anywhere and no-one would know that they are running shoes. These shoes have very good arch support and give a great bounce on the sole. The heel on these is pretty high, which also gives good support during exercise. These shoes are also very lightweight.

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Fit

These shoes are true to size--so make sure you order the right size. they also offer a narrow fit, so if you have wide feet you will need to size up. It is recommended you try these on before purchasing them if that is an option.

Style

These running shoes offer a sleek and modern design and they will look great with almost any outfit. They also come in several color options to choose from--so you have choices.

Use

These are excellent road running shoes--but make sure to keep on the road or in the gym because they can't handle the trails or technical terrain.

Comfort

These are very comfortable, particularly for people who like an airy and lightweight shoe. They provide good stability and good support, though they might not be suitable for very heavy runs or very difficult terrain. They keep your feet cool and the high heel keeps you fairly balanced and stable during your runs.

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2. Saucony Triumph ISO 2

Where to buy
Saucony Triumph ISO 2
Amazon Link

The style of these is more extreme athlete than calm and cool, but that's what some people are looking for. If you're looking to look as fast as you are these are a good option. They also perform really well and come from a well-respected name in the running world.

Read more

Fit

These shoes, for the most part, fit true to size. If you need to order running shoes online make sure to check in with the sizing chart to ensure you order the right size. If you have wide feet, may want to try these on beforehand to make sure they are comfortable.

Style

These look like something a badass track star would wear, which we think is super fun.

Use

They're designed for the road, not the trail, although users felt like they'd hold up to a little bit of off-road running

Comfort

Suited more for performance than maximum comfort, we still didn't find any reports of comfort issues and the ISOFIT liner is super plush and soft. Another option that's designed for road running, these aren't meant for all terrain running but will grip the pavement well even when it's wet.

3. ON Cloud

Where to buy
ON Cloud
Amazon Link

This Swiss brand is known for making high-quality shoes that meet the high standards of elite endurance athletes. We love the modern understated style that's available in ten different colorways for you to choose from. These shoe's performance goes beyond style though, and this lightweight option gets good reviews for its comfort, traction, and durability.

Read more

Fit

When it comes to fit, these shoes run a little narrow, so if you have wide feet you are going to have to make sure you order the right size. If you are able to go into the store, you will have better luck trying these on but we also understand that these shoes are more readily available online.

Style

Like almost ON running shoes, these are sleek and stylish. Not only do they look great but they also come in great color choices.

Use

These are meant for road running and they perform well at this while looking super cool as well. European design and fashion cues will help you feel good about how you look without making you stand out for the wrong reasons.

Comfort

This company's products consistently get high marks for their comfort and these are no exception. They're designed for elite endurance athletes so they have to stay comfortable on long runs. These are designed for road running and their tread grips the pavement well even when it's wet but we wouldn't take these trail running as they lack the traction designed for it.

4. Brooks Revel

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Brooks Revel
Amazon Link

This stylish option gets great reviews for its comfort and affordability. They offer neutral support so they're good for runners transitioning to natural running shoes as well as those who are looking for a good second pair of running shoes to try out. The brand has become well known for their excellent running shoes and this offering is no exception. They're also good for runners with high arches.

Read more

Fit

If you are looking for a pair of shoes that fit true to size then you need to take a close look at these. They do offer options for those of you with wide feet, but they are specifically great for those of you who have high arches and need the right support.

Style

These have a classic style and come in 9 different colorways, some of which are understated and some are super bold, so you choose what you like best. So, if you want a pair of shoes that look great and that you can color match with your favorite workout outfits, you will love these!

Use

These are intended to be used mostly for road running but will hold up to the trail as well although the traction isn't ideal for that. If you are looking for a stylish pair of road running shoes, you will definitely love these!

Comfort

This brand is all about comfort, from their plush liners to the amount of cushioning they have, and this is one area where this shoe gets consistently high marks. These are meant for road running so the outsole works well on the pavement but doesn't offer ideal grip for trail running.

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5. Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit
Amazon Link

Again, these are available for both men and women. They come in many different designs – some block colors, some more psychedelic, but they’re all very aesthetic. These have a very lightweight flyknit design, so you can run with versatility and freedom. They are one of the most flexible shoes currently on the market. The shape of the shoe is designed to mirror the natural movement of the foot, which ensures and promotes a more natural running pattern and a natural foot strike. Despite this, you still get good cushion and support here. They also offer good breathability.

Read more

Fit

The design also provides a particularly adaptive fit with good flexibility. Despite their very flat soles, the shoes offer great grip and traction. Because of the knitted design of the shoes, it may take two or three runs for your feet to really become accustomed to these. But once you do, you’re in for a comfy experience!

Style

If you want a stylish pair of running shoes you will love these. They offer a sleek and modern design that will go with any outfit--so you can wear them when you run or for leisure activities. These shoes are also available in quite a bit of color options to choose from so you can match them to your favorite outfits or get them in your favorite color(s)

Use

These shoes are road running shoes, but they are also great for the gym or running on the treadmill. They are definitely not durable enough to hit the trails with or to take them on technical terrain—but they will definitely hold their own on the road.

Comfort

These provide a very pleasant and comfortable running experience due to their lightweight design and unique curvature. When wearing these, you feel very free while still benefiting from the excellent support of the shoe.

Amazon Link

6. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32
Amazon Link

These have a huge range of colors and designs, so if you’re a fashionista looking for variety, you’ll find it with these. Another neutral shoe, these have a lightweight mesh upper, wire cables for added foot support and good underfoot protection. The material also offers good flexibility and bounce, so they’re a good all-around shoe for a comfortable road run.

Read more

Fit

These running shoes definitely fit true to size but they also run a little narrow, so if you have wide feet these may be a little tricky in terms of finding the right pair.

Style

If you want a pair of sleek and modern shoes, then you will love these. They are really stylish and come in several colors to choose from--and if you want to look great these will definitely do the job.

Use

When it comes to use, these are a good option for road running or gym use. Unfortunately, you won't be able to take these on the trail or technical terrain because they are not built to withstand it.

Comfort

They run a little narrow and short and the toe box is a little smaller than in most shoes. That said, lots of buyers have commented on the good stability of these shoes - they provide a natural footstrike with good balance. They are very comfortable with good traction and bounce making them offer great flexibility.

Amazon Link

7. Reebok Z-Pump

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Reebok Z-Pump
Amazon Link

These have a distinctive design, so if you’re looking for something to make you stand out, they might be a good buy. They come in ten different designs and have reflective features, useful if you like run at night. The shoes have a unique pump button to provide if needed, extra support and cushion to the heel. The outsole is inspired by tyres to offer good traction.

Read more

Fit

If you are looking for a pair of shoes that provides a snug and secure fit, then you will love these. These are true to size--although they do run narrow, so make sure to order the right sie.

Style

If you want a minimalistic shoe that looks great with anything, then you will love these. They are available in several neutral colors that you will love--so make sure to take a closer look at these if you want something stylish.

Use

If you want a stylish pair of road running shoes, then you will love these. They are perfect for easy terrain, just keep them on the road and they will last you.

Comfort

They are lightweight, comfortable and snug. They offer good arch support and are great if you have slightly narrow feet. The lacing system on these means that you can slip in and out of them, which is good if you value speed or if your exercise features transitions.

Amazon Link

8. Adidas ZX Flux

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Adidas ZX Flux
Amazon Link

These are smart and understated, with a very nice simplistic design. The heel and ankle both have good support, so they’re suitable for anyone seeking a little extra protection. They also have a good grip on the sole, so they’re appropriate for road running and casual running, but like most fashion shoes, they won’t offer support for trail running or anything equally intense. Like most of Adidas’ products, they are very robust, are comfortable and will last a long time.

Read more

Fit

These shoes fit true to size, and they also have options for those of you with wide feet--so you don't have to worry about them being too narrow.

Style

These are really stylish and available in several colors to choose from.

Use

Like most of Adidas’ products, they last a while and are made of quality material. This will ensure you do not have to worry about spending much on the pair because you know you will get quality. But, at the end of the day, these were and for the road so make sure you don't take them off road or on technical terrain.

Comfort

These are very stable, and provide good support for the entire foot. Most buyers report that they offer a very good fit and are snug and comfortable. Unless you run on particularly difficult terrain, these should provide all the comfort and support you need.

Amazon Link

9. Puma Ignite Mesh

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Puma Ignite Mesh
Amazon Link

These come in five varieties, from subtle to bright, and they are a nice sleek design. They have a mesh design and good cushion, though they aren’t quite as light as other options. They are a good comfortable option if you like to run short distances, and the broad sole gives good support for the feet and knees.

Read more

Fit

These fit true to size although users with wide feet have reported they can be a bit narrow and they need to size up.

Style

These shoes are pretty stylish but offer lots of colors to choose from--although users do report that some of the parts of the shoes start to flake off pretty easily.
Use

While these shoes aren't super durable, they are a good option for leisure wear.

Comfort

They are comfortable and stable and offer a good running experience. That said, they perhaps don’t have sufficient protection for those who like to run really long distances. A few buyers have reported that they’re better used for shorter runs.

Amazon Link

10. Merrell All Out Terra

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Merrell All Out Terra
Amazon Link

These are great for trail runners, with an excellent grip on the outsole and good protection against the elements. All of the attractive and colorful designs come with reflective details for those who run in dark conditions, and the toe guard provides an extra shield for particularly intense runs. If you’re seeking a trail running shoe that looks good, you’re in luck!

Read more

Fit

They are overall very durable and of high quality, though the insole seems to wear away a little quicker than it should. If you’re usually heavy on your insole, you might find that you need to buy new ones with these.

Style

These are pretty stylish for a trail shoe and they come in lots of colors to choose from as well.

Use

Made for trail running, this is the one pair on our list that you can brave out on the trail while still looking great!

Comfort

They take a little while to get used to, as they have a slightly unusual design owing to their great traction and protection. Once you do become accustomed to them, they make even the most intense runs very comfortable. They are surprisingly lightweight considering how protective and gripping they are.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Katie Rosenbrock, The Active Times, Website
  2. ANDREW BETTLACH, DANA BAARDSEN, Best Products, Website
  3. Joe Mackie, Fashion Beans, Article

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