INTRODUCTION TO THE COROS PACE 3

MEAGHAN: I was chatting with a friend the other day about the intimate relationship we have with our GPS watches. I mean, these things go everywhere with us. They’re there for the PRs, the DNFs, great workouts, bad workouts, and everything in between. Without them, we’d be lost — literally. So when the opportunity to test the new Coros Pace 3 arrived, I was excited but a little hesitant. Would all the new updates (new-generation GPS, touchscreen, updated heart rate sensor, and so on) be worth ditching the memories attached to my wrist for the past two years? Let’s take a deep dive.

RYAN: Like Meg, I have a close relationship with my GPS watch. I switch phones frequently (it comes with the territory of my day job), so I just never got into the ecosystem-specific land of smartwatches. I couldn’t spend money on an Apple Watch or a Samsung Galaxy Watch only to change my smartphone operating system the next week. With that in mind, I jumped into the world of GPS watches with the Coros Pace 2.

Man, that was a great watch. It was feather-light, easy to navigate, and, perhaps most importantly, reasonably priced. It was a $200 option in this sport of running that’s never as affordable as we make it out to be. However, just like I have the chance to try out different phones, I have the chance to test out GPS watches from other brands at the same time. As such, I took an extended vacation from Coros while I figured out which watch was best for my needs.

Now, I’m back. Like Meg, I was drawn to the Coros Pace 3 for a combination of its updated features and my own history with the series. I wanted to see just how many upgrades the company could pack into a tiny, still light, and still low-priced package. Would the Coros Pace 3 offer enough to keep a place on my wrist? Let’s find out.

WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THE COROS PACE 3

MEAGHAN: Originally, I was slated to test the Coros Apex 2, but as soon as I picked up the Pace 3, I knew this was the better option for me. This thing is LIGHT, I’m talking 30 g, which I don’t even really understand. You’ll definitely forget this thing is even on your wrist.

I was most eager to test out the next-generation GPS. The satellite accessibility now includes the five major satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, Beidou, QZSS) with dual frequency for the most accurate signal possible. This is the same accessibility as in the higher-tier watches like the Apex 2 Pro and Vertix, and it only took one run for me to realize this was a serious upgrade. Typically running through Baltimore, I’d hit areas where the GPS would go a bit haywire, and my map would come back with some questionable lines. The Pace 3 didn’t falter at all, which is easily seen on my more recent Strava maps.

Although battery life wasn’t a huge concern of mine, it’s really nice to know that I can run for 38 hours without ever charging it. That’s like… a month’s worth of running. Pretty, pretty good.

I’ve also never been into heart rate training, but I do like to see data around big efforts. The new HR sensor is designed with a five-LED/four-photodetector unit that puts it on par with the Apex 2 and gives me a better understanding of what easy pace really is.

RYAN: I mean, Meg nailed the main points of the Coros Pace 3. This thing is freakin’ light, but it doesn’t cut corners when it comes to tracking or battery life. In fact, the Pace 3 actually houses a slightly larger battery than its predecessor, thus the four extra days of smartwatch mode juice.

After a long time away from Coros, I forgot just how nice it is to navigate with a single button and a rotating crown. There are times when I’ll be running with a Garmin on my wrist and start to fumble with the five buttons dotted around the case, but never with Coros. It’s a breeze to press and hold the crown in order to unlock the watch, and then it’s extremely responsive with twists up and down.

If you’re not about the twist and shout, Coros’ new touchscreen is a nice addition, too. It’s only active during workouts by default, but you can toggle it to always-on from the settings menu in case you’d rather be able to swipe all day long.

Meg also pointed out the revamped heart rate monitor, which is a massive change. The Pace 2 had a teeny, tiny little sensor that barely had room for its LEDs and photodetectors, but the new sensor takes up practically the entire back of the case. It’s the same one that you’ll find on the Coros Heart Rate Monitor, and it uses green lasers to keep a read on your pulse. I had no issues with the accuracy during my runs with the Pace 3, and the readout typically matched my data from other GPS watches when comparing head to head.

WHAT WE DON’T LIKE ABOUT THE COROS PACE 3

MEAGHAN: Give me an accurate GPS and the ability to program workouts and I’m pretty happy with a GPS watch. I have no complaints on the Pace 3.

RYAN: In general, I agree with Meg. There’s not much to complain about when it comes to the Coros Pace 3, especially when you consider that this watch is only $229. However, there are a few things that I’ll point out just in case this is your first GPS watch.

For starters, 24 days of battery life in watch mode and 38 hours in GPS mode is the best-case scenario. In reality, you probably won’t hit either mark, especially if you have the touchscreen set to always-on. This isn’t really a bad thing — the Pace 3 still smokes the battery life you get from either the Apple Watch or Samsung’s Galaxy Watch; you just have to be somewhat conservative if you want to hit the top-end results.

Also, while you probably won’t damage the Pace 3’s plastic case unless you really wipe out wrist-first, metal is becoming more common on watches these days. It’s not too hard to find a GPS watch with a stainless steel or titanium bezel, which will put up with a bit more abuse, especially if you’re an avid climber or a trail runner. Granted, Coros has more adventure-focused watches for those scenarios, but it’s worth keeping in mind.

One last point, which is more of a reminder than anything, but the Pace 3 doesn’t allow you to respond to notifications. You can read texts and the basic parts of emails, but that’s about it. Personally, I prefer to respond on my phone anyway because I need that sweet, sweet full-sized keyboard, but just don’t jump into the Pace 3 expecting in-depth notification responses.

COROS PACE 3 CONCLUSION

MEAGHAN: The Coros Pace 3, which only costs $229, is the perfect GPS watch for the entry-level runner to the pro (just ask Emma Bates). Now with updated GPS, a touchscreen, an accurate heart rate monitor, longer battery life, and on-device music capabilities, the Pace 3 is basically a high-end watch with a low-end price tag, and you should get one.

RYAN: I know I picked out a few more of Coros’ flaws than Meg did, but I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Pace 3. It really is an excellent value at $229 when you consider just how much extra tech Coros packed into its tiny frame. Heck, the only reason I’d tell you to wait before picking one up is because I’m sure Coros will come out with cool special edition models and restock the all-red track edition colorway soon.

You can pick up the Coros Pace 3 for $229 from Running Warehouse (featuring free 2-day shipping and 90-day returns) using the buttons below.

We said it last year and we’ll say it again: running shoes have gotten really good. So good, in fact, that it’s hard to find a bad one (don’t worry, there’s still a few out there).

Midsole foams are getting bouncier and more durable thanks to the widespread adoption of supercritical foams and Pebax (as well as its knockoffs), which were once reserved for race day shoes in Nike’s iron grip. Thanks to the rise of the super trainer (a designation we coined upon the arrival of the original New Balance SC Trainer), plates– whether carbon fiber, fiberglass, or TPU– are almost a given now for anything in the performance category. The result is a propulsive ride that isn’t relegated to race day. Shoes like the Hoka Skyward X, Hoka Cielo X1, and Mizuno Neo Vista are giving runners that exciting feel in everyday training shoes, without sacrificing comfort.

All of these advancements are finally trickling down to daily trainers and even trail shoes as well, where we’re seeing premium technologies utilized in hyper-specific shoes.

You may have also noticed that prices are going nowhere but up. Inflation, shipping, and material costs have all played a role in sticker shock. We’re hoping things level off, but we’re not counting on it anytime soon. As such, you may be trimming back on the kids college fund to get the latest and greatest on your feet. Hey, we’re not judging– kids are resilient, right?

We’ve run plenty of miles in all of these shoes and all of these opinions are ours and ours alone. Which means, it may be different for you, because we all have different tastes and preferences. But we’ve found that our overall picks generally align with most runners. At the very least, it’ll give you a look into what’s happening with each shoe and help you separate the various purposes, which can sometimes get confusing. Just a note, this is a list of shoes from 2024, so it’s not an exhaustive list of our favorite overall shoes at the moment, which still includes 2023 shoes like the Nike Vaporfly, Asics Superblast, On Cloudeclipse, New Balance 1080v13.

Hopefully this guide gives you some direction, but whether you go with something on this list, or go with your gut on something else, we hope you find a shoe to keep you running through this year.

Questions or comments? Leave them at the end and we’ll do out best to get back to you.

Best Race Day Shoes

Nike Alphafly 3

$285

BEST FOR

Race day magic

WEIGHT

7.8 oz. (221 g) for a US M10.5,

5.8 oz. (164 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

40 mm in heel, 32 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop)

After a sophomore slump, the Alphafly returns to the glory of the original. The Atomknit 3.0 wraps the foot snugly while providing superior ventilation. It’s the lightest Alphafly ever and it feels like it. Because when it’s on, it’s a rocket headed for the moon, thanks to all the parts coming together.

Those parts include the continuous ZoomX midsole, which allows for a smoother transition than the decoupled heel and forefoot segments of the first two models. The combination of the carbon fiber plate and the dual Air Zoom units form a pop hit that even Taylor Swift would be envious of. It’s a can’t-miss shoe on race day, and with the new volt colorway, it’ll be hard not to.

Asics Metaspeed Edge/Sky Paris

$250

KEY FEATURES

Flytefoam Turbo Plus midsole (Asics’ version of PEBA), Motionwrap 2.0 upper, ASICSGRIP outsole, different design for different runners

WEIGHT

6.4 oz. (183 g) for a US M9 (unisex), both shoes

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

39.5 mm in heel, 34.5 mm in forefoot (5 mm drop), both shoes

The past versions of the Metaspeed Sky/Edge were quick and snappy, but left a little bit to be desired in the comfort department. Asics listened and delivered with the Metaspeed Sky and Edge Paris, both named after the upcoming Olympics location.The Edge Paris in particular gets an extra 3.5 mm of foam in the midfoot, providing a softer landing than even the Sky Paris provides.

Both shoes feature FlyteFoam Turbo+, a Peba-style midsole material that is both super lightweight and ultra bouncy. While we think Asics should streamline the Metaspeed models into one shoe to eliminate any confusion, there is a difference between the two. While the Sky Paris features a flatter carbon-fiber plate and is aimed towards stride-based runners, we’ve found that it’s actually a bit more of a responsive shoe compared to the softer Edge Paris, which has that extra forefoot foam sitting above a levered, scoop-style plate. It’s gonna come down to personal preference, but whatever you choose, you can know that you’re getting an incredibly lightweight race day shoe that feels fantastic underfoot.

Best Super Trainers

Hoka Cielo X1

$275

KEY FEATURES

Two layers of Peba foam, smooth midsole rocker, winged carbon fiber plate, snug upper

WEIGHT

9.3 oz. (264 g) for a US M10,

7.4 oz. (210 g) for a US W8

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

39 mm in heel, 32 mm in forefoot (7 mm drop)

The Cielo X1 has all the bells and whistles you could ask for in a run shoe– full-length, winged carbon fiber plate, Peba midsole, rocker geometry, and form-fitting upper. The end result is the most fun shoe in running right now. It honestly feels different than anything on the market. And while we’re not sure if it’s supposed to be a race day shoe, a long run shoe, or something in between, we’ve noticed that people kind of figure out how it suits them, and wherever it lands for them is the perfect sweet spot. 

Let me repeat: this is the most fun that money can buy. That said, this ain’t a trip to the penny arcade– the shoe will set you back a cool $275. Just depends on how much you love that dopamine.

Salomon S/Lab Spectur

$220

KEY FEATURES

Dual-density midsole (Peba Energy Foam+ on top, EVA Energy Foam on bottom), full-length winged carbon fiber plate

WEIGHT

8.3 oz. (232 g) for a US M8.5 (unisex)

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

38 mm in heel, 30 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop)

According to Salomon, this is a race day shoe for marathoners 3:30 and slower. We agree, it’s a fantastic shoe for those paces, and we couldn’t think of a better race day shoe for a first time marathoner. But we also think this is a pretty awesome super trainer. After all, it’s in the same price range as shoes like the Asics Superblast, Hoka Skyward X, and Saucony Endorphin Pro 4. It’s also just as fun and versatile. 

With a dual-density midsole (Peba Energy Foam+ on top, EVA Energy Foam on bottom), full-length winged carbon fiber plate, and a soft and comfortable upper, this shoe has everything you need to do, well… everything. We keep telling people not to sleep on it, so maybe it’s time to wake up to the fact that Salomon is actually making some pretty great road shoes.

Best Daily Trainers

Brooks Ghost 16

$140

KEY FEATURES

Engineered air mesh upper, DNA Loft v3 midsole, RoadTack rubber outsole

WEIGHT

9.8 oz. (277 g) for a US M9,

8.8 oz. (249 g) for a US W8

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

24 mm in heel, 12 mm in forefoot (12 mm drop, midsole only)

There are some things that are just great because they’re good. The Brooks Ghost 16 is one of those. Is it going to blow your mind? No. Is it going to give you a ton of miles with a comfortable ride, an ultra plush upper, and a generous layer of outsole rubber that will hold up forever? Yes, yes it will.

The DNA Loft v3 midsole is soft and bouncy, like a bed of foam that’s there to give you rest during your biggest mileage weeks. The engineered mesh upper features plenty of support to keep your feet comfortable, whether you’re running marathons or walking the town. 

It’s the Toyota Camry of running shoes. It’s not winning any awards on runways in Milan, but you know you’re getting quality that lasts.

Hoka Mach 6

$140

KEY FEATURES

Supercritical EVA midsole, Creel Jacquard mesh upper, Durabrasion rubber outsole

WEIGHT

8.2 oz. (232 g) for a US M10,

6.7 oz. (189 g) for a US W8

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

37 mm in heel, 32 mm in forefoot (5 mm drop)

The Hoka Mach 6 used to be more in the tempo range of running shoes, but with an upgraded supercritical EVA midsole and some extra stack height underfoot, it now falls more into the lightweight daily trainer category. 

It’s pretty simple all around with a simple-but-snug creel jacquard upper, Durabrasion outsole, and that bouncy midsole in a lightweight package. It’s not a mileage monster, but it will give you a pretty fun ride at a very reasonable price point (reasonable equals $140, these days, anyway).

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4

$140

KEY FEATURES

Fantomfit upper, Peba-blended FuelCell midsole, all-new design language

WEIGHT

7.7 oz (218 g) for a US M10.5,

5.3 oz. (150 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

30 mm in heel, 24 mm in forefoot (6 mm drop), midsole and outsole

The fan-favorite Rebel 2 was followed up with a very ‘meh’ version of the Rebel 3, so we weren’t sure if we should be excited about this one. Well, the performance matches the looks, which is to say that that the Rebel v4 a surefire winner.

As with many tempo shoes, the aggressiveness in early versions often gives way to a more comfortable and accessible ride, making it suitable for a wider range of runners. That’s basically what has happened to the Rebel, which puts it squarely in the lightweight daily trainer range. Don’t get me wrong– the FuelCell is still bouncy and propulsive and it all comes together in a package that disappears underfoot. It’s exciting and fun and we’re pretty sure you’re gonna love it if you choose to put your feet into it.

Best Tempo Shoes

Adidas Takumi Sen 10

$180

KEY FEATURES

Lightstrike Pro midsole, glass fiber EnergyRods 2.0 in same design geometry as the Adios Pro 3, more breathable and flexible mesh upper

WEIGHT

6.9 oz (198 g) for a US M9

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

33 mm in heel,

27 mm in forefoot (6 mm drop)

Truth be told, we still like versions 8 and 9 a bit more. But the Takumi Sen 10 is so good, that even if we think it took a step back, it’s still one of the best (maybe the best?) tempo shoe that money can buy. The Lightstrike Pro midsole is bouncy with good ground feel, the EnergyRods 2.0 give a bit of snap back, and the Continental rubber outsole digs into the pavement, spinning through that quick turnover you want at faster paces. It looks and feels like a dart, which is exactly what we want in a tempo shoe.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

$170

KEY FEATURES

Winged nylon plate, XT-900 lattice outsole, zonal mesh upper, PWRRUN PB midsole, Super Responsive Sockliner

WEIGHT

8.2 oz. (233 g) for a US M9,

7.2 oz. (206 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

36 mm in heel, 28 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop)

Again, the Endorphin Speed 4 is a shoe that has softened up over time. It could easily fall into the lightweight daily trainer category, or even super trainer category. And while it still lacks the aggressiveness of the first two editions, we feel that it’s a bit more fun than version 3. 

A winged nylon plate provides both propulsion and stability, while the PWRRUN PB midsole gives you just the right amount of bounce without sinking in. The zonal mesh upper is comfortable and breathable and the lattice outsole provides decent-enough traction. The result is a shoe that can do pretty much anything, including tempo runs. It’s also a solid race day option for someone who doesn’t want to break the bank.

Best Max Cushion Shoes

Hoka Skyward X

$225

KEY FEATURES

Knit upper, Peba & supercritical EVA midsole, carbon fiber plate, flat knit upper

WEIGHT

11.8 oz. (334 g) for a US M10.5,

9.4 oz. (266 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

48 mm in heel, 43 mm in forefoot (5 mm drop)

Hoka is really doing some crazy shit this year, and instead of face-planting, they’re hitting home runs to all corners of the park, with only a couple strikeouts. Any shoe with an X (which denotes the presence of a carbon fiber plate) has been absolutely stellar, including the Skyward X. While it doesn’t embody the race day components of the Cielo X1, it does offer a ride that’s reminiscent of the OG New Balance Supercomp, just with a slightly elevated build. 

The knit upper is comfortable and supportive, while the combination of Peba and supercritical EVA sandwiched around a carbon fiber plate gives a smooth and satisfying ride. Our favorite part? Despite its thick-ass stack height, it’s an incredibly stable shoe, especially once you get going. That’s a hard thing to pull off. The end result is one of the most comfortable cruisers that money can buy.

Mizuno Wave Neo Vista

$180

KEY FEATURES

Enerzy NXT midsole, knit upper, Mizuno Wave Plate, smooth speed assist

WEIGHT

9.4 oz. (266 g) for a US M9

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

44.5 mm in heel, 36.5 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop), midsole only

You heard it here first– Mizuno is back. The Wave Neo Vista embodies everything that we love about high-stack super trainers like the Prime X Strung and the New Balance SC Trainer v1, just at a much lower price point and a much lower weight. Knit uppers can be hit or miss, but this one hits– it’s snug and secure in the way that knit upper should be. The full-length fiberglass plate provides propulsion and the Enerzy NXT foam is bouncy but not too unstable, despite its nearly 45 mm stack height. It’s max cushion comfort at its best.

Available for pre-order May 17.

Most Underrated Shoes

Diadora Frequenza

$180

KEY FEATURES

Anima N2 midsole, Nylon air mesh upper, Duratech 5000 outsole rubber

WEIGHT

8.1 oz. (229 g) for a US M9,

6.4 oz. (181 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

35 mm in heel, 27 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop)

Honestly, it’s probably a tie between the Frequenza and the carbon-plated race day star in the Gara Carbon. Point is, Diadora has gotten serious about running and it’s time to give them a serious look. So while we implore you to check out the Gara Carbon, we also think the Frequenza deserves a little bit of love. 

It’s a lightweight tempo shoe that utilizes Diadora’s DD Anima 2 midsole foam, a supercritical EVA that’s bouncy and lightweight underfoot, even if a little on the softer side. It’s one of those shoes that feels like how a running shoe should feel– pure and honest and ready to roll. Just make sure you go up at least a half size, unless you want your toes mashed against all corners of the forefoot.

Reebook Floatzig 1

$130

KEY FEATURES

Float Energy midsole, Energy Band outsole rubber, Zig Tech midsole geometry

WEIGHT

9.8 oz. (277 g) for a US M9

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

31 mm in heel, 25 mm in forefoot (6 mm drop)

Just like you, we thought the Floatzig midsole was a gimmick at best, a scam at worst, but it turns out that it’s neither. It’s actually a very nice running shoe– comfortable and stable with plenty of cushion underfoot and a pretty great upper fit to keep things locked in. If you’re looking for something that stands out from the crowd, then you can’t go wrong with the Floatzig 1.

Best Trail Running Shoes

The North Face Altamesa 500

$155

KEY FEATURES

Dream supercritical EVA midsole, seamless engineered mesh upper, Surface CTRL rubber outsole

WEIGHT

11.9 oz. (337 g) for a US M10.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

30 mm in the heel, 24 mm in the forefoot (6 mm drop), midsole only

There was a time not too long ago when The North Face was somewhat infamous for its shitty trail shoes. That time is no more, as TNF has elevated itself to the top of the run game. Case in point– the Altamesa 500. This max cushion long haul shoe is designed for the most comfort over the longest miles and it will give you every bit of that and more. All our reviewers who have tried it have fallen in love with it, and we don’t see it relinquishing the crown anytime soon (though we’re always willing to consider the newest Hoka).

Salomon Genesis

$150

KEY FEATURES

Energy Foam midsole, Active Chassis, Contagrip outsole, woven Matryx upper

WEIGHT

9.5 oz. (269 g) for a US M9

8.5 oz. (242 g) for a US W7.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

34 mm in heel, 26 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop)

The Genesis isn’t going to change the world, but it’s hands-down one of the best trail running shoes for getting out there on any terrain. With a comfortable bed of Energy foam and an outsole of tried-and-true Contagrip, the shoe provides a versatile (if somewhat predictable) ride. Meanwhile, the upper and classic Salomon Quicklace system with lace garage keep the foot locked in. You could do much worse for a $150 trail runner.

Best Trail Racing Shoes

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

$220

KEY FEATURES

Dual-layer Lighstrike Pro midsole, Peba EnergyRods, Continental rubber outsole, sawtooth laces, woven upper, aggressive rocker geometry

WEIGHT

9.5 oz. (270 g) for a US M9,

8.1 oz. (230 g) for a US W7

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

38 mm in heel, 30 mm in forefoot (8 mm drop

Aside from maybe the New Balance Supercomp Trail, this is the first trail shoe that actually feels race worthy in the way that a road racing super shoe does. The Lightstrike Pro is bouncy but not soft– which is key for a trail shoe and something that most brands mess up.

The Agravic Speed Ultra is surprisingly stable despite its super aggressive rocker. While there’s a bit to be desire in the fit (namely the heel lockdown), it’s going to get you from point A to point B faster than any other trail shoe out there. While athleticism is the number one ingredient for race day success, tools matter too, and there’s a reason that Adidas Terrex athletes are destroying the competition in this shoe.

Brooks Catamount Agil

$180

BEST FOR

DNA Flash v2 midsole, SpeedVault Trail plate, TrailTack Green rubber outsole with 4.5 mm lugs

WEIGHT

7.7 oz. (218 g) for a US M9 (unisex sizing)

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

16 mm in heel, 10 mm in forefoot (6 mm drop, midsole only)

We’re reaching a point where every runner can have a tool for any distance. Nothing embodies that specificity more than the Catamount Agil. A shoe for the nimble and the quick, the Catamount Agil is lightning in a bottle. With a lower stack of DNA Flash v2 midsole, a SpeedVault Trail plate, and TrailTack Green rubber outsole with 4.5 mm lugs, this thing has everything you need to hammer out shorter distances. And with a race-ready upper, it’s basically a soccer cleat for running. Use it for anything under a 50K and you’ll be fine, take it farther and you may be hurting.

Best Budget Shoe

Atreyu Daily Trainer 1.2

$115

KEY FEATURES

Supercritical EVA midsole, sock-like 3D mesh upper with new tongue gusset, full-length rubber

WEIGHT

9.3 oz. (263 g) for a US M9/W10.5

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

30 mm in heel, 24 in forefoot (6 mm drop)

Look no further, because you’re not going to find a better shoe at a better price point with better aesthetics than the Atreyu Daily Trainer 1.2. Atreyu has mastered the art of making simple, just-what-you-need running shoes that pass all the cost savings onto you. 

The Daily Trainer 1.2 features a supercritical EVA compound for both comfort and bounce underfoot, while the upper features a sock-like 3D mesh with new tongue gusset gore strap in for a secure fit (really the only issue we had with the last one). The new, simplified design gives major stealth fashion vibes, and the all-white and pistachio versions knock the look out of the park.

Best Sustainable Shoe

Veja Condor 3

$200

KEY FEATURES

Full Pebax midsole, breathable mesh upper, good lockdown, featherlight shoe

WEIGHT

10.7 oz. (302 g) for a US M9

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

28 mm in heel, 23 in forefoot (5 mm drop)

We’ll be real: the first two versions of this shoe were terrible, so if you tried either of those (which you probably haven’t), just throw out the frame of reference. The Condor 3, however, is a very solid running shoe, even if most people end up wearing it as a lifestyle shoe. However you wear it, know that you’re getting a lot of comfort in a very responsible package (even if it does weigh more than we’d like). 

By far, the Condor 3 is the most sustainable shoe we’ve ever reviewed, mainly because Veja is the most sustainable shoe brand right now, more than Allbirds, and far better than any of the dumb/weird “recycled” shoes that big brands like to put out (i.e. any Nike nature shoe). They support their workers and provide a fair living wage and guaranteed housing and transportation. They source and produce everything from the same regions and South America. They don’t over-produce to meet shareholder demand. In short, they actually care. And they deserve to be recognized for it.

Best New Brand

Mount to Coast

$150-$160

KEY FEATURES

Full Pebax midsole, breathable mesh upper, good lockdown, featherlight shoe

WEIGHT

10.7 oz. (302 g) for a US M9

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

28 mm in heel, 23 in forefoot (5 mm drop)

When we say that shoe brands are catering to certain types of runners, nothing embodies that sentiment more than Mount to Coast. Their entire goal is to offer a running shoe for road ultramarathoners, a niche segment if we’ve ever heard of one. In doing so, they’ve created a simple shoe in the R1 that features a Pebax hybrid midsole that’s resilient with just the right amount of bounce.

The real magic comes from something called ZeroSag, which is a structural piece made from a BASF material used to absorb shock in F1 racing cars. It’s a remarkably durable material that allows for repeated compression without deadening out. Their athletes have taken the shoe for hundreds of miles in multi-stage races with solid results. While you may not be doing the same thing, you should get a lot of life out of the shoes.

Best Lifestyle Shoe

Deckers X Lab X-Scape 3D

$150

KEY FEATURES

Perforated eco-tan NBK leather upper, 3D printed hybrid suspension system, super foam soft filler, ETPEE insole, grippy outsole

WEIGHT

N/A

STACK HEIGHT/DROP

N/A

If you know us, you know that we love Deckers X Lab. Their lifestyle shoes, boots, slides, and slippers are the most comfortable footwear on earth and that’s not an exaggeration. There’s a reason they’re the innovation lab for Hoka– everything you see that’s cool and different in their running shoes came straight from here. Think of it as Willy Wonka’s experiment room for everlasting gobstoppers, but in shoe form. 

This is their first 3D-printed shoe, with a 3D shell combined with a “super foam filler” and a EPTEE midsole. Whatever that means, it’s comfortable and cool and features a head-turning design. The upper is an ultra comfortable, perforated eco-tan NBK leather that adds a classic styling element. Is this the perfect summer shoe? Pretty much, yeah. Bonus: you’ll probably be the only one in your circle who has it, and strangers will stop and ask you what shoe you’re wearing (we know, because this happens with every Deckers shoe we own).

HOW WE MAKE OUR PICKS

All of our recommendations come directly from our feet to your screen. We test countless running shoes here at Believe in the Run, and we let our reviews guide our decisions. However, we also consider other reviews and our BITR community, as not every runner has the same experiences. We also aim to stick with shoes that are currently available so you can give our recommendations a try.