Annual Running Shoe Try-On Powered by BMRC
Every year I bury myself in all the latest running shoes so I can let you know what you want on your feet for the upcoming running season. To do this, I head to Bryn Mawr Running Company— hands down, the best place in the area for running shoes. They have the largest updated selection of running shoes, as well as very knowledgeable staff to get you in the right shoe. For this annual post, as well as my own shopping experience, I typically spend a lot of time in the store trying on as many shoes as they can carry out for me. I put them on. I walk around. I run on the in-store treadmill. And I compare and debate, both in my head and aloud to whoever will listen.
I’m a little predictable when it comes to my running shoes and usually go with the next version of the Brooks Glycerin. They have just been so good to me throughout my years of running. Every so often I’ll get something else, but I always return to my beloved Brooks. It’s the comfort, the high cushion and the reliability that gets me every time. This year, I did try on the latest model of the Glycerins, but I decided to eliminate them right away and go with something else. Why? Well, all of the shoes I put on felt very similar. Brooks is no longer the only brand to deliver a lightweight and breathable running shoe with lots of cushioning that I always gravitate towards for my daily trainer. So this year I wanted to get a little wild and change it up.
A daily trainer is what you’ll be wearing for most of your runs. These are the runs for distance, not necessarily speed. Every runner needs a daily trainer in their shoe bin, no matter their experience level. All of the shoes in this post are for a neutral foot, which does not require extra arch support while running. Not sure what type of foot you have? Get your butt into Bryn Mawr Running Company for an assessment before diving into this post.
Here are my top four picks for your next daily trainer:
The New Balance 1080 Fresh Foam is a crowd pleaser. In fact, this shoe won some sort of running shoe of the year award in 2024, I’m told. The 1080 is known for its Fresh Foam, a cushioning technology that offers support and comfort without sacrificing energy return. It’s responsive and springy, making it a great option for newer runners or anyone looking for a soft, comfortable ride.
That being said, when I tried on the 1080, I felt a bit unstable on the treadmill, especially in the rear sole. Despite that, the 1080 has a loyal following and could be the perfect fit for many runners. Plus, it’s got a sleek look with a $165 price tag, making it a top-tier option.
Hoka is a brand that elicits strong opinions of either love or hate, but the Mach 6 is a game-changer. This shoe is not your typical Hoka, as it’s much more lightweight and responsive than the traditional bulky Hoka models. If you like a cushiony feel but want something sleek that can handle speedier runs, the Mach 6 could be perfect for you.
The Mach 6 felt the firmest of everything I put on, which is why I didn’t buy it— I actually needed more cushion from this Hoka. Go figure! But it’s incredibly lightweight and I can totally see the appeal of this stealth shoe. Plus, the colors are always a party with Hoka. Version 6 is updated for more durability, which equals more runs. This shoe costs $140 and is an affordable choice for a variety of runs.
And speaking of variety, I wanted to include a shoe that could be used for runs but not only runs. That’s why I love the Cloudsurfer. It works for your daily runs, but the more supportive sole and fit makes this shoe perfect for the gym and all of those workout classes you love to frequent.
But I am adding this one to my cart because it’s so cute, which isn’t usually the case with bulky running shoes. It’s stylish, lightweight and I love this neutral off-white color to balance out the many colors of my activewear. The higher price tag— $160— can be justified by all the activities you’ll be wearing these for.
As always, I saved the best for last—and this year, I walked out of Bryn Mawr Running Company with a bold Nike Vomero 18. Honestly, I was shocked to be holding an orange Nike box, too! But this shoe is a game-changer with its dual-layer cushioning system that combines ZoomX and ReactX for the softest, most cushioned run of all the Nikes.
I actually bought the men’s version (since they were out of my size in women’s), which worked perfectly due to Nike’s narrower fit. What really sold me though, was the pop of red on the sole—sometimes it’s the little things that seal the deal! At $150, the Vomero 18 is a good price for those who want to be comfortable while looking cooler than they used to look in their running sneaks.
When you’re gearing up for a new running season, you can’t forget the accessories! Fresh, comfortable Feetures socks, stylish Goodr sunglasses, and high tech running gear from Bryn Mawr Running Company will take your race day experience to the next level. Whether you’re hitting the pavement or prepping for a race, these accessories are the perfect finishing touch to any running fit.
Thanks to my friends at Bryn Mawr Running Company for once again helping me buy my next pair of running shoes. When shopping for a new running shoe, you should get properly fitted so heading into the store is always best. But if you can’t make it in and want to give any of these shoes a try, I have linked them all in this post. Just click on the pictures (which happened to be shot using the new Lilo Photo Booth in the King of Prussia mall). And if you purchase any of these shoes, I will get a small commission, at no cost to you.
Happy spring running— as soon as it starts to feel like spring again! Come on, April!