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Travel + Leisure
02-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
We Asked Disney Cast Members for the Best Walking Shoes—and These Are the 11 Comfy Styles They Swear By
If anyone knows the importance of a good pair of walking shoes, it's Disney cast members. These pros easily clock tens of thousands of steps a day, whether they're working long shifts around Cinderella's Castle or spending a well-earned day off park-hopping with friends. So when it comes to finding the best shoes for walking all day at Disney, they know which styles actually hold up under pressure (and humidity). We asked current and former Disney employees to share the walking shoes they rely on most, both on and off the clock. From ultra-cushioned Hoka shoes that feel like "walking on marshmallows" to the supportive Asics pairs that can handle 35,000-step shifts, these are the shoes that Disney cast members actually wear. Whether you're planning a trip to Magic Kingdom or just need a pair of sneakers that won't quit halfway through your errands, these are some of the best walking shoes for Disney World and beyond. There's a reason Hokas are the go-to shoes at Disney parks, including for cast members. One current employee called the Hoka Clifton 9 Shoes 'a game changer,' adding that 'they're like walking on marshmallows from rope drop to fireworks.' They're lightweight, ultra-cushioned, and surprisingly supportive for long days on your feet. The Bondi 9 shoes are the second most popular Hoka pick among Disney employees. Fans say this version feels lighter than previous Hoka Bondi styles while still delivering plush support and a bit of extra lift, perfect for all-day wear, whether you're working a shift or hitting every park in one day. If you want a high cushion without bulk, the Hoka Rincon 4 is a standout, according to Disney employees. Designed with soft, springy foam and a snug fit, this ultra-light trainer is ideal for long walking days. Bonus: The breathable upper and sleek silhouette make it a stylish choice beyond the parks, too. With built-in stability and cushioned support, the Hoka Arahi 7 is a favorite among cast members who log serious steps. One park regular noted they hit 17,000 steps in these and still felt great. Amazon carries them in six color options—so whether you want to go neutral or bold, there's a pair for you. You might not think of Nike Air Force 1s as theme park shoes, but they're a quiet favorite among cast members. The classic style features Nike's signature lightweight air cushioning and a streamlined look that works just as well with Minnie Mouse ears as it will with jeans and a tee back home. While Asics might fly under the radar, plenty of Disney insiders swear by them, particularly the Gel-Nimbus 26s. One former cast member said, 'I averaged 25,000 to 35,000 steps per shift. These lasted longer than my Skechers and were lighter than most other options I tried.' The Gel-Nimbus 26 delivers soft cushioning and stability without extra weight. The Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 is a great option if you want a well-cushioned shoe without the premium price tag. One Amazon reviewer said they rival $200 shoes in comfort. With a smooth ride and breathable build, these sneakers are ideal for long walks and everyday wear alike. The latest version of Brooks' popular Adrenaline GTS 24 stability shoe is also this year's pick for the brand's DisneyRun collection. With nitrogen-infused foam and a GuideRails support system, these are built for comfort, stability, and high mileage—perfect for marathon park days. The Pegasus 41 is one of Nike's most beloved shoes for good reason. This latest version features a breathable upper and new ReactX foam for a more energy-returning, springy ride. Dual Air Zoom units add even more bounce, making them a great option for full days of walking (and snapping Disney pics for your Instagram). The New Balance 327 offers a great blend of comfort and style, especially if you're not used to being on your feet all day. A lightweight upper and grippy outsole make these breathable and great for hikes, too. One reviewer even wore them to an all-day golf tournament and said they felt amazing. Spotting On Cloud shoes at Disney parks has become common, and the Cloud 6 style is one of the most-worn styles. The newest version features a roomier step-in, a better heel fit, and the same signature cloud-like cushioning. They're comfy, supportive, and easy to wear straight from the teacups to a fireworks show, and dinner after. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
CNN
30-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 18 best running shoes for men in 2025, according to podiatrists and runners
Running shoes quick picks For flat-footed athletes: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Everyday trainers that'll last: Nike Pegasus 41 Plush shoes for runners with arthritis: Hoka Bondi 9 Trail runners with a cult following: Altra Lone Peak 9 When it comes to men's running shoes, there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all. The same gear a trail runner uses to race up a mountain won't do much for a new runner sprinting on a treadmill. Throw in different body types, running gaits, training goals and budgets, and it's clear: Finding the right pair of running shoes takes more than just a flashy design. To give you an idea of which shoes are best suited for your specific needs, I turned to four seasoned running experts to help build a standout lineup. Whether you're lacing up for your first lope or chasing a new personal best, there's something here for everyone. The experts also shared practical, no-nonsense tips on how to choose the right shoes. Here's what they recommend. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 24 Using Brooks' cushy DNA Loft v3 foam and GuideRails technology (like training wheels on a bike), the Adrenaline GTS 24 offers extra stability on the road. They're a prime recommendation of Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare, for overpronators and patients with flat to Coast Men's P1 Though Mount to Coast doesn't have mainstream brand recognition, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, reaches for the brand's P1 stability shoes, which she said are superb for pronators who run long distances. Like many of the shoes on this list, they also come stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Men's Addiction GTS 15 Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a multiboard-certified podiatrist and running shop owner, recommends this responsive, extra-supportive model for overpronators with knee, hip or other lower extremity problems. They're so good that you shouldn't need insoles or orthotics, he said. Plus, they come in four widths, from narrow to extra Men's Wave Inspire 21 For 2025, Mizuno updated the Wave Inspire with a wider forefoot and extra cushioning, and Mendeszoon likes them because they are a solid buy for responsive stability. But what makes the Wave Inspire really stand apart is their 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which he said offers 'tremendous heel shock absorption,' to mitigate aggressive heel striking. Hoka Men's Arahi 7 The beefy midsoles on the Hoka Arahi 7 will keep excess pronation in check, Mendeszoon said. Combine that with the stellar shock absorption, outstanding breathability and roomy toe boxes, and you can see why these are another of his favorites. Brooks Men's Beast GTS 24 Whether you've got severely flat feet, have had surgery or suffer from other foot problems, try Brooks' Beast model, Mendeszoon said. They offer some of the most support and cushioning out of Brooks' line and also make excellent walking shoes. The newest model features softer, more breathable uppers without sacrificing their roomy fit. Nike Men's Pegasus 41 The versatile, durable Nike Pegasus 41, one of Cunha's favorites, epitomize what everyday trainers should aspire to. Upgrades in 2025 include an increase in the shoe's cushioning, more breathable uppers and an improved lacing system for a dialed fit. Saucony Men's Ride 18 Like the Pegasus 41, the Saucony Ride 18 are like the Swiss Army knife of the road running world, offering something for long-distance runners, casual joggers and men who just want a comfy pair of walking shoes. Cunha added that they also accommodate most foot types and running Men's Glycerin 22 If you're the kind of guy who likes to wear running shoes to the office and the gym, then the Glycerin 22 are the do-it-all model you're looking for. Parthasarathy said they're one of her top picks for everyday wear and running, thanks to the well-cushioned midsoles and wide toe boxes. You can also snag the Glycerin GTS 22, which offer more support for Men's Bondi 9 With their 'bouncy, cushioned feel,' Parthasarathy said she points patients to the Bondi 9 if they have fat pad atrophy or arthritis. The newest version has a higher stack height for an ultra-plush experience on the road. Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 27 'The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 remains one of my top choices for neutral runners looking for extra cushioning and long-distance comfort,' Cunha said. For this year's model, expect an even higher, squishier midsole. Hoka Men's Clifton 10 'For patients seeking all-around performance, the Hoka Clifton 10s offer superior cushioning and a smooth ride — ideal for heel strikers and long-distance runners,' Cunha said. The newest iteration also comes with more cushioning, a roomier forefoot and toe Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14 Men with wide feet should test drive New Balance's 1080v14, Cunha said. The brand has equipped the cushioned, everyday running shoes with new, more breathable uppers and extra rubber for more durability. Brooks Men's Ghost 17 Despite being hot off the assembly line, Parthasarathy is already recommending Ghost's newest model for its 'very responsive' design that will suit neutral or supinated gaits. At time of publication, they're available for preorder at Brooks. Altra Men's Lone Peak 9 Contributing writer Cassandra Brooklyn called the Altra Lone Peak some of the best hiking shoes you can buy. They have a cult-like following among trail runners too, and received plaudits from Cunha for their wide toe boxes and zero-drop platforms, 'which promote natural foot movement.'Read our review La Sportiva Men's Bushido 3 After runners on staff logged more than 100 miles in 13 popular trail running shoes, the Bushido 3 emerged as our favorite, impressing testers with their sticky rubber, cooling ventilation and aggressive lugs. Keep in mind, however, that these are truly specialist shoes that won't work well on the road or for casual exercise in the our review Brooks Men's Cascadia 18 Whereas the Bushido 3 would be overkill for road running, our testers found the Cascadia versatile enough to take on- and off-road. (We tested the 17, which are very similar.) They've got rock plates and overlays to protect you when the terrain is tough, and just enough cushioning for long walks, hikes and road our review Hoka Men's Speedgoat 6 Though our trail running experts at CNN Underscored haven't tried the newest model of the Speedgoat, an earlier iteration is our pick for long-distance trail runs and ultramarathons. Highlights include flexible uppers that expand as your feet swell and comfy cushioning. Read our review 'The right running shoes can make a big difference in preventing injuries, improving comfort and keeping the entire body in better alignment while running,' Cunha said. Know your gait pattern Cunha believes your gait, the way you move when you run, is a key factor when choosing the best pair of running shoes, and he noted three gait or stride patterns: Pronation: When your feet roll inward. Supination: When your feet roll outward. Neutral: When your feet distribute weight evenly. And though this may sound technical, figuring out your own gait doesn't have to be. 'Going to your local run shop and getting an in-person gait analysis is absolutely the best way to have veteran eyes tell you what shoe is best for you,' Sackett said. Or, if you're willing to do a little DIY investigation, Cunha suggests looking at the wear patterns on your old shoes to get a better idea of how your feet hit the ground when you run. Find shoes that fit Once you know your gait pattern and terrain, the last thing to consider is the right fit. 'A proper fit helps prevent pain, blisters and injuries like plantar fasciitis or toenail trauma,' Cunha said. 'If it feels off in the store, it'll feel worse on a run.' Look for running shoes that fit snug but not tight, with about a thumb's-width of space between your big toes and the ends of the shoes. 'The toe box should be wide enough to wiggle your toes, and the shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not through the arch,' he added. Another pro tip? Make sure you try on your shoes at the right time of day. Parthasarathy recommends shopping toward the end of the day, after a run, when your feet are most swollen. 'If they feel good then, they'll likely feel good during a run,' Cunha added. Still not sure what to buy? Lean on a podiatrist or a trusted staffer at a specialty running store for guidance. 'Running shoes are the best they've ever been, and nowadays you can really find something for every running style,' Sackett said. The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, and product line manager at Brooks, Lee Sacket. What are the best running shoes for beginners? What are the best running shoes for beginners? 'For someone just getting into running, I always recommend starting with a balanced, 'perfect blend' type of shoe,' Sackett said, 'so you can start to unpack the features and feelings that you like and dislike on the run while still staying protected and comfortable.' In technical terms, he said to find a pair with a medium stack height (28 millimeters to 36 millimeters), a soft, responsive midsole, an upper that fits comfortably with the contours of your feet and enough stretch for your toes to spread out. How long do running shoes last? How long do running shoes last? Parthasarathy and Cunha said that it's important to replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Worn-out shoes can lead to heel pain, shin splints, knee pain or even back issues,' Cunha said. You can also try bending shoes to check wear, Parthasarathy said. If they bend in half, it's time for a new pair. Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? 'At Gotham Footcare, I often explain to my patients that women's running shoes are typically designed with a narrower heel, softer cushioning and a different arch design to accommodate anatomical differences,' Cunha said. 'Men's shoes tend to be wider and built with slightly firmer midsoles to support greater body weight and wider foot structure.' That said, 'fit and function' matter most, regardless of gender, according to Cunha. If you're a guy who prefers a pair of women's running shoes, wear those instead. To ensure this guide features high-quality advice and recommendations, I spoke to four experts, including three podiatrists and a product line manager at Brooks. Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, multiboard-certified podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties and owner of Achilles Running Shop, a specialty shop dedicated to runners, walkers and athletes Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association Lee Sackett, product line manager at Brooks Running CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Here, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya interviewed running and health care experts. Whenever possible, Shukuya also included products we've tested and loved in other health and fitness guides.
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Celebrate Walking Day with comfort: I wore the Hoka Bondi 9s for a month and they're worth every penny
As a trail runner, I've put thousands of miles on pavement, dirt and everything in between. I've tried the best running shoes money can buy — and I've been let down. But even if you're just jogging around the neighborhood, walking the dog or standing on your feet all day, Hoka's new Bondi 9 shoes deliver next-level comfort. They're legit for serious runners, but at the end of the day, most people buy them because they're just really comfortable. And since it's National Walking Day, it's worth pointing out: You don't need to be training for a marathon to appreciate these shoes. To put them to the test, I wore them nonstop for 30 days. They became my go-to for everything from running to errands to chasing my toddler around the playground. They're cushioned enough for marathon training, but they're so plush that I find myself wearing them everywhere — yes, even when I'm not running. Related: Hoka Bondi vs. Hoka Clifton: Which cloud-like sneaker is best? There's something so satisfying about unboxing a fresh pair of running shoes — peeling back the tissue paper, catching that new-shoe smell and feeling the plush cushioning for the first time. As soon as I pulled the Hoka 9s from their signature blue box, I could tell they were built for comfort. The thick, pillowy midsole and soft, structured upper stood out immediately. Naturally, I took them for a spin — a 5-mile walk. I had no blisters, no hot spots, no foot or knee pain whatsoever. They were plush, not stiff, right out of the box. Hoka is known for its bright, eye-catching colors, but it's keeping things relatively neutral so far with the Bondi 9s. Options include all-white, all-black, blue and gray. I went with gray and white. I'm usually a size 9, and that held true for the Bondi 9s. If you have wider feet, good news: Hoka offers wide and extra-wide versions. The shoes have a snug midfoot and roomy toe boxes that let my toes spread naturally. Heel lockdown is solid — there was no slipping, even on longer walks and runs. If you wear orthotics, thicker socks or just like more wiggle room, you may want to size up. Hoka offers a 30-day try-on period, so you can order two sizes and return the one that doesn't fit. A family member who runs ultramarathons first clued me in about Hokas. "They're like pillows for your feet," he said. And he was right: I have never worn shoes with more cushioning than the Bondi 9s. These have a stack height of 43 millimeters in the back (42 for the women's shoes), 2 millimeters more than the Bondi 8s. What does this mean for comfort? Well, there's loads of it. If you're coming from a shoe with minimal or even medium cushioning, the difference will be night and day, in a good way. It usually takes me a few miles to get used to a new shoe, but that wasn't the case with the Bondi 9s. They were my feet's best friend from mile one. The Bondis' thick foam doesn't just soften impact — it adds a surprising bounce. With each stride, I felt an unexpected responsiveness that propelled me forward rather than sinking me into the shoe. The Bondis delivered plush comfort without sacrificing speed, truly the best of both worlds. Related: Want truly comfy walking shoes? Here's what to look for, according to podiatrists It's hard to gauge long-term durability after a month of testing, but here's what I can say. I am not gentle on my running shoes. I've worn these on gravel-strewn trails and to the gym; I've chased my toddler around in them. So far, they've handled it all without major signs of wear. The outsole still has plenty of tread, and the midsole hasn't compressed or lost that signature Hoka cushioning. That said, Hokas have never been known for having the most resilient outsoles. Previous versions of Bondis and Speedgoats, a Hoka trail runner, tend to wear down faster, especially for midfoot or forefoot strikers. If you're using these primarily on pavement or putting in high mileage, you might notice some wear sooner than you would with a stiffer, less cushioned shoe. As for breathability, the engineered mesh upper does a solid job of keeping things ventilated, at least in cooler weather. My feet never felt overly warm, but the real test will come in the summer. Given the amount of foam underfoot, they may run a bit warm, but that's the trade-off for maximum cushioning. If you're on your feet all day — whether pacing hospital halls, chasing kids or grandkids, or running errands — these are the most cushioned shoes you'll find. They also make an excellent recovery shoe for runners logging high mileage. Are these a magical cure for plantar fasciitis or a bum knee? No‚ but no shoe is. Still, Bondi 9s offer exceptional cushioning and support, helping reduce impact stress and providing a smoother ride for those with aches and pains. The curved sole encourages a smooth transition from heel to toe, which may ease joint strain. No shoe can replace proper recovery and strength training, but these are a great option for anyone looking for extra comfort underfoot. The only time I leave these shoes at home is when I hit the gym for strength training. The thick cushioning is great for running and walking, but for weightlifting — especially squats and deadlifts — I prefer my grippier, more grounded Nike Metcons. Related: These are the best Hoka shoes for walking If you loved the Hoka Bondi 8, don't worry — the 9s will feel familiar, with a few key upgrades. The midsole is softer and more responsive, and the upper got a refresh with a more accommodating fit that hugs your foot without feeling restrictive. The Bondi has never been lightweight, but the 9 shaves off 0.3 ounces, making for a slightly less clunky feel. If you're comparing the 9s to the Bondi X, that's a different story. The Bondi X takes that plush cushioning and adds a carbon plate, making it more performance-oriented. It's still a Bondi — well-cushioned and built for long miles — but with extra propulsion for those who want more speed. If you're mostly walking, working on your feet or prioritizing maximum comfort, the Bondi 9s are the better pick. If you want something with more zip, the Bondi X might be worth a look. How do they compare with other shoes? Well, they offer more cushioning than anything I've worn. Even Nike is playing catch-up, adding more foam than ever before (the Nike Vomero 18 now has a 46-millimeter stack height, 3 more than the Bondi 9). Will I be throwing away all of my previous pairs of running shoes? No. (That would be wasteful!) Plus, different shoes serve different purposes — some are better for speed work, others for trails and still others just fit my mood on any given day. But will the Bondi 9s become a go-to in my rotation for walking, easy runs and recovery days? Absolutely. The plush, bouncy cushioning, improved fit and surprisingly smooth ride make for one of the most comfortable shoes I've tested in a long time.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
I wore Hoka's ultra-cushioned Bondi 9s for a month — they're my new go-to shoes
As a trail runner, I've put thousands of miles on pavement, dirt and everything in between. I've tried the best running shoes money can buy — and I've been let down. But even if you're just jogging around the neighborhood, walking the dog or standing on your feet all day, Hoka's new Bondi 9 shoes deliver next-level comfort. They're legit for serious runners, but at the end of the day, most people buy them because they're just really comfortable. To put them to the test, I wore them nonstop for 30 days. They became my go-to for everything from running to errands to chasing my toddler around the playground. They're cushioned enough for marathon training, but they're so plush that I find myself wearing them everywhere — yes, even when I'm not running. Related: Hoka Bondi vs. Hoka Clifton: Which cloud-like sneaker is best? There's something so satisfying about unboxing a fresh pair of running shoes — peeling back the tissue paper, catching that new-shoe smell and feeling the plush cushioning for the first time. As soon as I pulled the Hoka 9s from their signature blue box, I could tell they were built for comfort. The thick, pillowy midsole and soft, structured upper stood out immediately. Naturally, I took them for a spin — a 5-mile walk. I had no blisters, no hot spots, no foot or knee pain whatsoever. They were plush, not stiff, right out of the box. Hoka is known for its bright, eye-catching colors, but it's keeping things relatively neutral so far with the Bondi 9s. Options include all-white, all-black, blue and gray. I went with gray and white. I'm usually a size 9, and that held true for the Bondi 9s. If you have wider feet, good news: Hoka offers wide and extra-wide versions. The shoes have a snug midfoot and roomy toe boxes that let my toes spread naturally. Heel lockdown is solid — there was no slipping, even on longer walks and runs. If you wear orthotics, thicker socks or just like more wiggle room, you may want to size up. Hoka offers a 30-day try-on period, so you can order two sizes and return the one that doesn't fit. A family member who runs ultramarathons first clued me in about Hokas. "They're like pillows for your feet," he said. And he was right: I have never worn shoes with more cushioning than the Bondi 9s. These have a stack height of 43 millimeters in the back (42 for the women's shoes), 2 millimeters more than the Bondi 8s. What does this mean for comfort? Well, there's loads of it. If you're coming from a shoe with minimal or even medium cushioning, the difference will be night and day, in a good way. It usually takes me a few miles to get used to a new shoe, but that wasn't the case with the Bondi 9s. They were my feet's best friend from mile one. The Bondis' thick foam doesn't just soften impact — it adds a surprising bounce. With each stride, I felt an unexpected responsiveness that propelled me forward rather than sinking me into the shoe. The Bondis delivered plush comfort without sacrificing speed, truly the best of both worlds. Related: Want truly comfy walking shoes? Here's what to look for, according to podiatrists It's hard to gauge long-term durability after a month of testing, but here's what I can say. I am not gentle on my running shoes. I've worn these on gravel-strewn trails and to the gym; I've chased my toddler around in them. So far, they've handled it all without major signs of wear. The outsole still has plenty of tread, and the midsole hasn't compressed or lost that signature Hoka cushioning. That said, Hokas have never been known for having the most resilient outsoles. Previous versions of Bondis and Speedgoats, a Hoka trail runner, tend to wear down faster, especially for midfoot or forefoot strikers. If you're using these primarily on pavement or putting in high mileage, you might notice some wear sooner than you would with a stiffer, less cushioned shoe. As for breathability, the engineered mesh upper does a solid job of keeping things ventilated, at least in cooler weather. My feet never felt overly warm, but the real test will come in the summer. Given the amount of foam underfoot, they may run a bit warm, but that's the trade-off for maximum cushioning. If you're on your feet all day — whether pacing hospital halls, chasing kids or grandkids, or running errands — these are the most cushioned shoes you'll find. They also make an excellent recovery shoe for runners logging high mileage. Are these a magical cure for plantar fasciitis or a bum knee? No‚ but no shoe is. Still, Bondi 9s offer exceptional cushioning and support, helping reduce impact stress and providing a smoother ride for those with aches and pains. The curved sole encourages a smooth transition from heel to toe, which may ease joint strain. No shoe can replace proper recovery and strength training, but these are a great option for anyone looking for extra comfort underfoot. The only time I leave these shoes at home is when I hit the gym for strength training. The thick cushioning is great for running and walking, but for weightlifting — especially squats and deadlifts — I prefer my grippier, more grounded Nike Metcons. Related: These are the best Hoka shoes for walking If you loved the Hoka Bondi 8, don't worry — the 9s will feel familiar, with a few key upgrades. The midsole is softer and more responsive, and the upper got a refresh with a more accommodating fit that hugs your foot without feeling restrictive. The Bondi has never been lightweight, but the 9 shaves off 0.3 ounces, making for a slightly less clunky feel. If you're comparing the 9s to the Bondi X, that's a different story. The Bondi X takes that plush cushioning and adds a carbon plate, making it more performance-oriented. It's still a Bondi — well-cushioned and built for long miles — but with extra propulsion for those who want more speed. If you're mostly walking, working on your feet or prioritizing maximum comfort, the Bondi 9s are the better pick. If you want something with more zip, the Bondi X might be worth a look. How do they compare with other shoes? Well, they offer more cushioning than anything I've worn. Even Nike is playing catch-up, adding more foam than ever before (the Nike Vomero 18 now has a 46-millimeter stack height, 3 more than the Bondi 9). Will I be throwing away all of my previous pairs of running shoes? No. (That would be wasteful!) Plus, different shoes serve different purposes — some are better for speed work, others for trails and still others just fit my mood on any given day. But will the Bondi 9s become a go-to in my rotation for walking, easy runs and recovery days? Absolutely. The plush, bouncy cushioning, improved fit and surprisingly smooth ride make for one of the most comfortable shoes I've tested in a long time.
