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CNN
3 days ago
- Business
- CNN
Apple's newest iPad is also its most affordable with this $50-off all-time low discount
One of the best Apple Memorial Day deals is still live after the holiday weekend. It's rare to see one of the newest releases from Apple at its all-time low price, but that's the case for the new 11-inch iPad with A16 chip. Courtesy of Amazon, it's down to the best price ever in all four colors. Apple 11-Inch iPad A16 The new version of our pick for the best iPad landed at its best price ever over Memorial Day weekend. It's such a good deal that I'm back to highlight Apple's latest tablet for $50 off the usual price. It even comes in all four of the new our review Echoing the advice of my colleagues and tech experts, Henry T. Casey and Mike Andronico, the best iPad that most people can buy just so happens to be the most affordable tablet Apple sells. As far as our current standings go, the previous-generation version of this 11-inch iPad currently holds the top spot. But that won't be the case for long. The newest iteration improves upon our best-tested pick with some enhanced internal specifications. While the improved A16 chip means that it will do a better job at handling tasks in the present, it also means that the tablet will keep working for years to come into the future. Normally, I'd hold back on recommending that you buy the latest and greatest version of any product. But when a deal like this comes around, it's the only offer that makes sense to recommend. I know that not everyone needs the current model, but think of it this way: Today's $50 discount means you can score the most future-proof offering in Apple's lineup for less. The previous-generation model is no longer sold anywhere, so this is your best bet at an affordable tablet. Today's tech deal checks all the boxes. It's an all-time low price, for starters, and means you can score the latest release from Apple for less than ever before. The iPad A16 also comes in four colors, all of which are marked down at Amazon — so this isn't one of those deals where you have to buy one of the overstocked styles to save. This isn't just the most notable offering from Apple, but it's also one of the best tablets on the market, period. The only reason I wouldn't recommend this is if you're shopping for something outside of Apple's ecosystem, in which case, I'd suggest pursuing our guide to the best Android tablets. Our senior deals editor Rikka Altland spotted the price drop this morning while searching for the best finds of the week. She has worked in service journalism for nearly a decade and is an expert at deal hunting and price-history analysis. Altland also regularly reviews tech for a living, frequently collaborating with CNN Underscored's team of testing experts.
CNN
3 days ago
- Business
- CNN
I don't leave the house without this portable charger, and you shouldn't either
I can't remember the last time I worried about my phone's battery life. No matter if I'm on a trip, cheering at a live event or just enjoying a night out on the town, I've always got enough juice to keep scrolling. I don't constantly micromanage my charge before I leave the house, either: I just pack the Anker Nano Power Bank. This portable charger basically lives in my fanny pack, and it's small enough to fit in my pocket or a bag if the evening calls for different attire. Look at the Anker Nano and you'll begin to understand its allure pretty quickly. Its built-in USB-C cable makes recharging your phone easy and convenient. On top of that, its 10000mAh capacity means I don't have to recharge it often and that it's got more than enough juice for me and a friend on a night out. Plus, it has additional USB-C and USB-A ports, so I can refuel my noise-canceling headphones and Apple Watch at the same time if I need to. Anker Nano Power Bank An ingenious looped USB-C cord design and enough juice to recharge multiple phones makes this portable charger an essential for everyone on the go. Those looking to charge the iPhone 14 or older should get the version with a Lightning cable. I've lost count of the number of times my colleague and senior tech editor Mike Andronico has asked if he could borrow my Anker Nano because his phone was running low on juice. It's not that he's bad at recharging his phone; he just knows I keep this portable charger on me. I'm not the only one either, as our senior deals editor Rikka Altland also praises and rocks this pocketable power bank in her daily carry. If someone didn't know better, they'd think this small, colorful plastic rectangle were vital to my life the way I clutch it so covetously. Let me tell you why I'm so addicted to Anker's take on portable power. With over a decade of experience writing product reviews, I've tested a lot of laptops, tablets and other gadgets that didn't exactly wow me. Companies love to claim that new technologies such as 5G cellular connections and generative AI will change our lives, but the former feels forgettable and the latter continues to fail to impress. Instead, I've noticed that the most important new products tend to be the little gadgets that make things easier to do, thanks to one little tweak that feels obvious in retrospect. That's what happened with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which I've relied on for over a year and a half. The Anker Nano Power Bank doesn't get my vote just because it's kept me in the green for months and months. It recently thrived in competition as I tested it against 10 other popular power banks while revamping our best portable chargers guide. Not only did I measure charging speeds but it also won points for its ease of use and ports. This is not to say that the Anker Nano Power Bank is a piece of rechargeable perfection, as it didn't win every single category. But no other charger under $50 proved as convenient to use, and it also provided some of the fastest phone charging times in the field. A great design that puts the rest to shame Most portable chargers are essentially the same rectangular power supply we've all kept in a pocket or purse. As much as we're happy for the juice they provide, we're not exactly thrilled to use them, especially when they often require you to pack a charging cable and are useless without one. Not to mention the awkward aesthetic of a cable snaking out of a back pocket and into a phone — 'tourist chic,' as I call it. Then there are the slightly better portable chargers that have one or more cables that snap to the charger's sides. Unfortunately, many of these juice boxes are a bit too bulky and pricey, without offering a substantial difference, and I'd only recommend them to the folks who value the convenience of charging via both Apple's Lightning port and the USB-C port at the same time. (Speaking of Apple's port, if you use an iPhone 14 or earlier, you would need get the compatible Anker Nano Power Bank with a Lightning cable.) The Anker Nano Power Bank gives you everything you need and nothing that you don't, though. That starts with its built-in USB-C charging cable, which helps it refuel everything from most Android phones and modern iPhones to tablets, PS5 controllers, many wireless headphones (including my beloved Sony WH-1000XM6) and more. Oh, and unlike most chargers, the Anker Nano comes in five colors: black, white, purple, blue and green. I've seen both the blue and green models in person and appreciate both their hues, not to mention the option to match your tech to your wardrobe. The Anker Nano Power Bank's cable isn't just built-in either; it's designed so you can charge your phone while you use it on the go. It's all thanks to a convenient little metal bar that makes it so the USB-C cable is always sticking out, like a loop. I simply slide one or more of my fingers into that loop, and the tip of the charging cable extends upward to plug into my phone. And that's how I'm holding my phone while it's charging, so I can make immediate use of this replenishing power by checking emails, sending texts and reading the news. This leaves my other hand free to use an umbrella, drink a beverage or any number of other things. You shouldn't have to expend too much effort when you're charging your phone, and the Anker Nano Power Bank's proven that to me. Long after I found and became fond of the Anker Nano Power Bank, I was given the assignment of revising CNN Underscored's best portable chargers guide. This meant I tested 11 of the most popular and beloved portable chargers on the market, seeing how fast they refuel an iPhone 16 and a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, among other devices. The Anker Nano Power Bank's 30W charging power enabled strong performance when refueling an iPhone 16, adding more than 50% of a charge in 30 minutes (only one percentage point off the high score for this category). For those curious, the Mophie Powerstation Plus 10K won that round, but it costs twice as much. And while the environmentally conscious Nimble Champ also offers high-speed charging, it costs $20 more and has no built-in cables. The Nano also posted a stellar score on the S25 Ultra charging test, with nearly half of its battery refueled in the half hour, beating about half of the chargers in our testing pool. But if charging speed is your number-one concern, you may want the 10,000mAh Iniu portable charger, which also packs a built-in USB-C cable. Its iPhone 16 charging score was fantastic (and it did even better on the S25 Ultra), but its cable isn't as conveniently designed, and it failed to recharge the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+. Everyone shopping for a portable charger wants two things above all else: ease of use and charging power. Anker's chargers, as a whole, do a great job of balancing both and always offer solid build quality with materials that feel durable and reliable; this isn't unique to just the power bank I'm recommending here. Anker also sells a smaller 22.5W Nano Power Bank that swaps the built-in cable for a foldable USB-C connector that folds in and out of its top. This portable charger is pretty good, but it might not be right for you if you don't like the idea of having a 'taller' phone. Plugging it into the port at the bottom of your phone basically extends your device's height. If you're looking to refuel laptops and tablets, I need to tell you about one of the more exciting products that came from the CES 2025 Anker launch: The new 165W Anker Laptop Power Bank will refuel your tech quickly, and it's got two built-in USB-C cables. One doubles as a wrist strap, and the other is a 2.5-foot retractable cord that hides inside its frame. There's nothing bad about this charger, but its dimensions are a bit too big to easily fit in any pocket or bag on the average night out. That said, if your night out typically involves camping and checking out the stars, consider the mighty Anker Solix C300 DC. In the end, though, I say go for the 30W Anker Nano Power Bank. It's much more portable than the Laptop Power Bank, and it charges faster than its smaller counterpart. Plus, you get a 10,000mAh battery that's twice the capacity of what you get in its baby brother (while still being a TSA-approved power bank). This is probably a great time to tell folks that certain airline power bank rules have changed recently, so you might want to double-check before your next flight. All three of these portable chargers could be your own all-star, but I'm pretty sure the 30W Anker Nano Power Bank I pack is the best for most people. For anyone like me who is constantly on their phone, the Anker Nano Power Bank will be one of those purchases you'll never regret. You'll also probably wonder how you ever lived without it. Not only does it keep my phone from hitting low battery but it's easy to use while I'm tapping out a text or email, scrolling the web or watching yet another video. You'll never have to even think about learning how to ask for a charger in another language on your next vacation, and you'll be able to focus on everything else during your next night out. How fast can the Anker Nano Power Bank charge a device? How fast can the Anker Nano Power Bank charge a device? That depends on your device, but it refueled 56% of an iPhone 16 in 30 minutes and 45% of a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in the same amount of time. Are there any devices the Anker Nano Power Bank isn't compatible with? Are there any devices the Anker Nano Power Bank isn't compatible with? Because the standard Anker Nano Power Bank has its own USB-A and USB-C ports, it can charge nearly all your devices. If your devices use a Lightning port, there is an Anker Nano version for that too. It doesn't deliver enough power to recharge laptops, though, but we don't think most people would expect a pocket-sized portable charger to refuel a MacBook. Can you charge your device with the Anker Nano Power Bank when your device has a case on? Can you charge your device with the Anker Nano Power Bank when your device has a case on? Yes, and I do it all the time when my iPhone 16 Pro Max is in its Nomad Rugged Case. CNN Underscored thoroughly tests the products we review and provides full transparency about our testing methodology. We're made up 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. This article is the culmination of more than a decade spent trying to find the right portable charger, as our electronics writer Henry T. Casey tried everything from cases with built-in batteries to MagSafe power bricks. When he isn't refueling his devices, he's testing tablets, phones, laptops, headphones and so much more.
CNN
08-05-2025
- Business
- CNN
I found the best Apple AirPods deals to shop right now, starting from $99
All four of the latest Apple AirPods just went on sale at Amazon. Ask just about anyone at CNN Underscored which earbuds they use, and most of the time, they'll pull out some flavor of AirPods. Whether you're shopping for true wireless earbuds or noise-cancelling headphones, I found the best deals on Apple products you can shop right now. Apple AirPods Pro 2 With USB-C I've tried every other pair of popular earbuds out there, and nothing comes close to the AirPods Pro 2. The active noise cancellation is unmatched, and the sound quality offered by Apple's Spatial Audio tech is just as immersive as it is rich. This $80 discount makes that whole listening experience even better. Read our review Apple AirPods 4 At the opposite end of the spectrum, Apple's new AirPods 4 offer many of the same features as the Pro versions of the earbuds for far less. My colleague and our senior tech editor Mike Andronico adored these from his hands-on experience. Right now, they're also matching the all-time low price at $100. Read our review Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation Between the baseline AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2, this pair of upgraded earbuds comes with added active noise cancellation tech. I recommend taking advantage of this deal if you don't particularly care about the silicone ear tips offered by the Pro series. Read our review Apple AirPods Max With USB-C AirPods Max have been a favorite of mine for half a decade. The new and improved version brings USB-C into the mix for the first time. These may have recently lost their accolade for the best over-the-ear Apple headphones, but I still believe they deserve the title. The price may be steep, but you won't find a better-sounding pair. Today's discount takes as much as $69 off to help. Read our review If you've been searching for the best way to save on a new pair of AirPods, today's deals have you covered regardless of how much you're hoping to spend or which features matter most. Everything from Apple's most affordable true wireless earbuds to its flagship over-ear headphones is included in the savings. Today's sale combines a great variety of AirPods along with some of the best discounts ever. All three of the true wireless AirPods are down to the best offers of the year, while the over-ear AirPods Max are within $1 of its best-ever discount. Our senior deals editor Rikka Altland spotted the price drop this morning while searching for the best finds of the week. She has worked in service journalism for nearly a decade and is an expert at deal hunting and price-history analysis. Altland also regularly reviews tech for a living, frequently collaborating with CNN Underscored's team of testing experts.
CNN
05-05-2025
- Business
- CNN
The best sales to shop this week: Beats, Coleman, Columbia and more
This week, you'll find a deal on Beats Powerbeats Pro 2s, a discounted Coleman Cooler Quad Chair and savings at Le Creuset. All that and more below. Columbia The weather may be warming up past the point of needing a jacket, but we know our readers are savvy shoppers who would never pass up a notable off-season deal. Applying the code EXTRA20 at checkout takes an extra 20% off already-discounted winter jackets and fleeces, as well as spring hiking gear, to save you as much as 52%. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 The very first discount on the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 has arrived. When our tech expert Mike Andronico got his hands on the new buds, he noted that all the improvements 'add up to some of the best workout headphones [he's] tested.' That makes this new all-time low an even better value. Read our review Coleman Cooler Quad Chair If you're in the market for a folding chair, be it for camping or adding some extra seating to your Memorial Day picnic, this Coleman is for you. The brand's Camping Quad Chair earned our praise when we set out to find the best camping chairs on the market, entering as our budget pick. Today's Amazon sale leans into that with an even more affordable price. Read our review Toto Washlet C5 Bidet The upgraded version of our top pick for the best bidet seat is now on sale at Amazon. And it's not just on sale; it's dropping to a new all-time low price. The Toto Washlet C5 Bidet includes the same stream and dryer that made its C2 counterpart such a favorite while also adding a heated seat and more. It has a $450 list price on Amazon but has actually been selling for closer to $800 over the past few months. Le Creuset Stoneware Savings Our editors love Le Creuset. But we don't all love the higher price tags. Thankfully, the brand is remedying that with a 30% off sale across its stoneware. The year's best prices have gone live on baking dishes, serving platters, batter bowls and casserole Mac Mini M4 After its release last fall, the Mac Mini M4's size and capabilities impressed our senior electronics editor during testing. It's great for desktop users short on space, and now it's an even more budget-friendly buy thanks to this new low price of $491 at Amazon. Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan For those who take clean and cool air seriously, Dyson is here to upgrade your current routine. Its sleek TP07 model is down to 31% off at Amazon and will keep rooms pollutant-free with reports handy on its app. Oral-B iO Deep Clean Series 3 Electric Toothbrush Using an electric toothbrush is a must for pearly whites and healthy gums. We love the pressure sensor and timer on this Oral-B iO to ensure safe brushing and now it's $70 in all three colors at Amazon. Ego Power+ 21-Inch Electric Lawn Mower Ego's Power+ Select Cut series was our favorite lawn mower for tackling larger lawns. This 21-inch version of our best-tested pick is now $150 off for the first time, offering an electric lawn mowing experience for the best price yet via Amazon. Lego Botanicals Mini Orchid Set Our senior deals editor, Rikka Altland, knows a thing or two about gifting Lego kits. She always thinks they make perfect gifts, and this miniature orchid set went on sale at Amazon just in time to wrap up for Mother's Day. Brilliant Earth From now until Mother's Day, purchases over $500 will come with a free pair of lab-grown diamond studs. You heard that right. With code SPARKLE, you can get a complimentary treat for yourself after splurging on mom. Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric Grill If all the models featured in our guide to the best grills are a bit too bulky for your limited patio space, this discounted Char-Broil is for you. Its compact Patio Bistro Electric Grill is now 44% off at Amazon and dropping to the best price of the year. Therabody Mother's Day Sale Through May 10, six of Therabody's bestselling products are up to $100 off for Mother's Day. Many of our editors rave about the brand's compact massage guns and all-in-one facial health devices and now you can treat mom to the gift of relaxation with this sale. JBL Clip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker This portable Bluetooth speaker is ready to serenade you all summer long. Take it with you on hikes, use it to jam out by the pool or just to enjoy some tunes while you shower — its waterproof design can handle it all. Amazon is offering the best price since back on Black Friday with this rare discount to $50. Baked by Melissa Mother's Day Gift Box Don't show up to the Memorial Day gathering empty-handed. Instead, bring a tray of miniature cupcakes from Baked by Melissa that everyone will enjoy. Luckily, its adorable floral adorned gift pack is buy one, get one 50% off and orders $70 or more will ship for free with code SHIPLOVE. Our Place Our Place is hosting its biggest sale of the year until May 12. Its Instagrammable Always Pan is down to $100, and other gift-worthy cookware sets, like the recent titanium version of its pots and pans, are marked down by 30%. Cozy Earth Mother's Day Sale Mother's Day will be here before you know it and if you haven't purchased them a gift, it's time to do so. Luckily, one of our favorite brands is marking its catalog down by 35%, which includes editor-approved pajama sets, cozy bamboo sleep masks and more. Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven It's not every day that a nearly half-off discount comes around on a best-tested pizza oven. However, that's the case today as our favorite option for beginners drops in price. We loved this pizza oven because it does many of the same things as our top pick but at a fraction of the our review Paravel Our team frequently travels with Paravel's luxurious, sustainable luggage. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy thought the brand's retro-inspired weekender was high-quality, and her mother appreciated its compact size since she travels light. If the higher prices have deterred you, now is a great way to get an intro at a discount with the brand's biggest sale of the year. Ninja Crispi Air Fryer Ninja recently launched one of its most versatile appliances yet with the Crispi Air Fryer. My colleague and testing aficionado Michelle Rae Uy has been using it herself to assist with meal prepping and is impressed by how brilliant it is. Now, it's on sale for the first time at Amazon. Read our review Hisense 55-Inch U8QG Mini-LED ULED 4K Smart TV (2025) Hisense makes some of the best TVs we've tested. The brand stands out when value matters most, and its newest televisions are no exception. They just launched this model earlier in the spring and we're already seeing the first Amazon price cuts starting at $1,000 with the 55-inch model. Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner Since landing on the scene, the Bissell Little Green series has been beloved by cleaning enthusiasts. Our editors adore the lineup, including the new Little Green Mini. With this recent launch, we've spotted the original on sale for just $100. It's a smart buy for pet owners or parents who need to quickly and efficiently tackle spill-prone our review Chefman 48-Ounce Obliterator Countertop Blender in Midnight From blending soups to mixing smoothies, the high-speed Obliterator can power through it all. Forego one of the biggest hassles of using a blender by simply tossing it into the dishwasher or setting it on the self-cleaning preset while filled with soap and water. It also comes with a travel jar to fuel your workouts. Best of all, our deals experts found it for $70 off at Amazon. The deals editors at CNN Underscored look out for your wallet on the daily, scouring sales at the top of every morning. We tap a range of techniques and consider a variety of factors to determine whether a deal is worthy of coverage, such as price history checks, available coupon codes and competitor pricing. Our team, consisting of senior editor Rikka Altland, editor Jacqueline Saguin and associate editor Elena Matarazzo, is passionate about unearthing deals that we ourselves would be tempted to shop, and we enjoy finding a great deal on a coveted item (especially one that's a top-tested by our experts) because it means that we're helping our readers make savvy buying decisions.
CNN
21-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
22 of the best cheap sneakers that are also comfortable, starting at $65
If there's one fashion item people can't seem to get enough of, it's shoes. And with spring and summer days finally upon us, you might be in need of something more breathable to keep your feet feeling fresh as the temperatures rise. Whether you need a pair for work, daily wear or to hit the gym with, getting shoes that are comfortable and have a fashion-forward design shouldn't break the bank. That's why we asked podiatrists, editors and style experts for their favorite cheap sneakers that are worth adding to your rotation. New Balance Men's 574 Core Despite his newfound love for ultra-cushioned Hoka shoes, senior tech editor Mike Andronico said he can always count on his trusty collection of New Balance 574 sneakers when it's time to mix things up. 'They're as easy to put on as they are to take off, provide ample support and look good whether I'm wearing them out to a concert or slipping into them in my sweatpants when I'm still waking up and getting ready to walk the dog,' Andronico said. New Balance Women's 574 Sneakers Andronico isn't the only fan of the 574 sneakers. Podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Nicole M. DeLauro also likes these sneakers, which have all the supportive benefits found in other New Balance shoes — like soft midfoot cushioning and a wide, roomy fit — but with a lightweight feel that's perfect for daily wear. New Balance Unisex 530 Maybe you've heard already, but dad shoes are having a major comeback and these New Balance 530 sneakers will have you perfectly on trend. Michael Foley, vice president of merchandising at Warehouse Shoe Sale, likes that these shoes are retro in style, but have the modern comfort you need thanks to the Abzorb cushioning that helps reduce the force of impact as you move. Plus, the breathable mesh uppers keep your feet comfortable during all-day wear. Reebok Court Advance Sneaker Blending function with stylish form, these unisex Court Advance sneakers by Reebok are made with OrthoLite foam soles to ensure feet stay comfortable, cushioned and cool every time you slip them on. Senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus said she took a pair very similar to these Court Advance sneakers on a two-week trip to Europe last summer. Though the exact style she has is no longer available, Kraus said the cushioned OrthoLite soles were lifesavers for keeping her feet fresh during high mileage walking days. Plus, the leather construction lends itself to an effortlessly cool look too. New Balance Women's 327 Sneakers A sportier answer to the New Balance 574 shoes, these 327 sneakers are retro-inspired and have a lugged rubber outsole that extends up the heels for better traction. Made with a combination of suede, mesh and leather, these make for a versatile pair of lifestyle sneakers that you're sure to get your money's worth out of. Ryka Women's Devotion X Max Walking Shoe Home and gifts editor Amina Lake Patel said these Ryka sneakers have become her go-to walking shoes over the past couple months. 'I'm obsessed with how comfortable and supportive they are,' Patel said. 'I can wear them on long, 3-plus mile walks multiple times a week without any pain or discomfort.' She also appreciates that in addition to having roomy toe boxes, these shoes are available in wide-fit options. Adidas Men's Stan Smith Shoes Dr. Nicole M. DeLauro, podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, called these Stan Smith shoes from Adidas 'classic laced slip-ons with good support and leather construction.' Inspired by the shoes worn by American professional tennis player Stan Smith in the '80s, these minimalistic leather sneakers are designed to deliver a clean look and keep feet comfortable all day with OrthoLite sockliner insoles. Adidas Women's Stan Smith Shoes Though you can grab the classic, all-white unisex Stan Smith shoes, you can also opt for styles with subtle pops of color on the heels, like green or navy, or grab some fully metallic shoes in bronze or silver shades. Nike Men's V5 RNR Foley said these RNR sneakers from Nike blend the supportive structure of running shoes with the stylish versatility you want in your choice of everyday footwear. Lightweight and responsive — despite their chunkier look — these make great shoes for commuting or casual wear, according to Foley. Nike Women's V5 RNR With a silhouette inspired by Y2K fashion, these sneakers make a great addition to your favorite athleisure look. The plush collar lining helps create a snug fit through the ankles while the mesh uppers keep feet feeling cool so you can get where you need to go comfortably. Dr. Scholl's x Milk Bar Rebel Sport Sneakers Testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy said she loves these Dr. Scholl's Rebel Sport sneakers. Part of a collaboration with pastry and dessert shop Milk Bar, these shoes are adorable and trendy, but also supportive thanks to the anatomical cushioning and arch support. Uy vouched for the comfort of these shoes too, noting that her feet stayed pain and blister-free during multiple long days of walking. Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes Available in sleek monochromatic and bright, eye-catching colors, these Nano X4 Training Shoes from Reebok are designed to give your feet the support they need for weightlifting, plyometrics and any sort of cross-training, without excess weight and bulk to drag you down. Reebok Women's Nano X4 Training Shoes 'I've had these cross-training sneakers for over a year now and they've fully won me over,' said updates writer Ellen McAlpine. 'They're comfortable, offer lots of stability during weightlifting sessions while maintaining support while walking on the treadmill, stair climber or elliptical.' McAlpine also likes that while these shoes are functional in the gym, they're also easy to style with any workout or athleisure outfit. Skechers Men's Slip-ins Arch Fit 2.0 Skechers has long been a brand where you can find affordable and comfortable shoes for the whole family, and these slip-in shoes are no exception. Designed to fit snug like your favorite pair of socks, these sneakers also boast the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health. And if that's not enough, they're also machine-washable and have removable insoles so you can create a more custom fit with orthotics if you'd like. Adidas Men's X_PLR Path Breathable mesh uppers and plush Cloudfoam midsoles keep these Adidas sneakers light and comfortable for all-day wear. Foley also likes the modern look of these shoes that makes them easy to pair with everything from joggers and shorts to jeans and casual trousers. Adidas Women's X_PLR Path Perfect for exploring new city streets or wandering through your local parks and neighborhoods, these Adidas sneakers also have enough support to handle light runs, making them a versatile and affordable option at $ Balance Men's Fresh Foam 680v8 Podiatrist and current president of the American Association for Women Podiatrists, Dr. Elizabeth Piselli, said if you don't have any active issues with your feet, like plantar fasciitis, these New Balance 680 sneakers can be a great option for every day running or walking. The men's version of these shoes comes in three widths: standard, wide and extra-wide, and sizes up to a US 15, all with soft underfoot support to help feet rebound with each step. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680v8 These sneakers can be a great option for those looking for more affordable shoes they can wear for both running and casual daily wear. At 7.7 ounces, the women's style is almost a whole 2 ounces lighter than the men's version and comes in seven colors, plus standard and wide Men's Knu Skool Skatewear-inspired shoes that are sure to draw looks, everything about these Vans sneakers is oversized. From the thick laces to the puffy tongue, these shoes have a dramatic silhouette that's perfect for those who like to rock relaxed, loose or baggy kinds of fits. Vans Women's Knu Skool Though these shoes make a nod to the iconic silhouettes popular in the '90s, they're not simply fashion sneakers. Made with Vans' signature rubber waffle outsoles for increased traction, the wide heels are made for easy on and off too, so while you won't be setting any record breaking mile times in these, they're a fun option packed with personality. Puma Speedcat OG Sneakers Stylish streetwear shoes that still deliver on comfort, these Puma sneakers are modeled after the same shoes worn by Formula 1 drivers. Personal stylist and style coach Samantha Dawn likes that the leather upper and rubber soles on these shoes give a casual but elevated feel. Plus, the range of color options from neutrals like black, gray and brown to statement shades like red, blue and yellow mean there's a perfect hue for everyone. Allbirds Men's Tree Toppers Associate testing writer Joe Bloss said he's had a few different Allbirds shoes over the years but these Tree Toppers are the lightest he's tried by far. 'The eucalyptus 'tree' material is about as heavy as a sock,' Bloss said. 'I know these are going to get a ton of use in the summer heat.' Allbirds Women's Tree Toppers Whether you're looking for good travel shoes or something that can stand up to hours of walking without leaving your feet a sweaty mess, these Tree Toppers will give you more protection than sandals and are machine washable for easy cleaning. Vionic Women's Kearny Lace Up Sneaker Grab a pair of these chic platform sneakers from Vionic if you want to make your podiatrist (and feet) happy. They're made with heel cups to keep the feet properly aligned, shock-absorbing midsoles for comfort and they carry the AMPA Seal of Acceptance. Asics GT-2160 Sneakers Though deals editor Jacqueline Saguin said she originally got these Asics GT-2160 sneakers as a stylish option to pair with trousers and jeans, she reaches for them when heading for a stroll outside or a walk on the treadmill. If these dad shoes aren't quite your style or you're looking for more options, Asics offers a ton of discounted styles through their Road Tested Footwear program, which gives gently used shoes a chance at a second life. Hoka Men's Transport Andronico said these Hoka Transport sneakers might be the most comfortable shoes he's ever worn. The thickly cushioned heels help deliver the plush bounce Hoka shoes are known for and though some of the brand's shoes can be quite bright and busy, Andronico appreciated the clean look of the all-white Transport shoes. Hoka Women's Transport Piselli said that if you are looking for more durable shoes, try a pair made with Vibram soles, like these Hoka Transport sneakers. The addition of the more rugged Vibram soles means these shoes have better traction across a variety of surfaces, giving you better grip on things like dirt and gravel as well as concrete and asphalt. Kizik Men's Vegas What makes Kizik shoes unlike any other is that they're designed to be put on with the laces fully tied. All you need to do is slide your feet into the shoes and stomp on the back of the heels to secure them. On top of being super easy to put on, these Vegas sneakers are also made of full-grain leather so they make a great choice if you're on the hunt for classic-looking everyday sneakers to add to your wardrobe. Kizik Women's Vegas Available in both black and white, these sneakers have removable and washable insoles, so you can switch them out for a custom insert. Kizik claims the real magic in its sneakers is the outsoles anyway. Made with the brand's proprietary Rabbit Foam technology, the outsoles are designed to keep a bouncy spring in your step so your feet stay feeling fresh all day long. Xero Shoes Men's Prio Barefoot Athletic Sneaker CNN Underscored travel editor Kyle Olsen is a fan of these barefoot-style Xero shoes for long travel days. The zero-drop design helps to reinforce the natural alignment of your feet and the wide toe boxes leave plenty of room for the front of the feet to move, so your toes will never feel cramped or squished. Xero Shoes Women's Prio Barefoot Athletic Sneaker Though they don't offer plush cushioning or a ton of stability support, these lightweight shoes do have adjustable heel and instep straps to securely hold the backs of your feet in place as you roam. These shoes are ideal for the minimalist who just needs something for daily wear that offers a bit of protection to their Men's Pegasus 41 Athletic sneakers designed for road running, these Nike Pegasus shoes can still appeal to those looking for a sporty street style option. DeLauro liked that these shoes have plush foam midsoles for cushioning and still provide a lightweight feel thanks to the breathable mesh upper construction. Nike Women's Pegasus 41 Available in regular and extra-wide sizes, the Pegasus 41 shoes have an upgraded design from previous Pegasus models, including wider bases for extra stability, more reactive foam in the midsoles for better energy return and a taller stack height for increased shock absorption to protect the feet and article How 'sportstyle' sneakers took the resale market by stormAdidas Women's Sambae Shoes Finding casual sneakers that could stand up to commuting through New York City, while still being comfortable and stylish took a few tries to get right, but after I thrifted a pair of these Adidas Sambae sneakers, it was basically game over for the other shoes in my closet. I love that the platform rubber outsoles give me a little lift and the leather uppers are easy to wipe clean. Though I usually have a hard time with trendier shoes since I find they tend to run more narrow, I'm always shocked by how my toes feel like they have room to breathe when I sport these Sambae shoes. And if you want less of a platform, the OG Sambas sneakers make a great choice too. Veja Esplar Leather White Dawn said that Veja's shoes have a 'less is more' design that makes them look more luxe than their $150 price point lets on. She added that once the break-in period for these leather sneakers is over, the materials will mold to fit your feet, giving you a fit that's comfortable and a look that's chic enough to style with an array of outfits. Even if you're looking at lower cost options, Piselli said you should never compromise on the fit and durability of your shoes. 'You can supplement arch support with orthotics but durability and fit cannot be swapped,' Piselli said. You might also be able to find quality-built sneakers at a reduced price by shopping styles that are not the most current releases. Shopping slightly older styles can be helpful for runners or anyone who puts a lot of miles on their shoes and needs to replace them every couple of months. To check the quality of a shoe, Piselli said you can do what she calls the 'bend and twist test': pick up the shoes and try to bend them in half and twist them as if you're wringing out a towel. You don't want sneakers that bend anywhere but at the toe joints. Even at the toes, you don't want shoes to bend more than 45 degrees since your feet don't need all that excess range of motion to move comfortably. 'If the shoes twist at all, they're not supportive enough and will likely fail in the first month of wear,' Piselli said. 'If you are able to deform the shoes at all with your hands, they're likely not supportive enough as there is more force applied on the shoes with your legs and feet.' You'll also want to look at the outer soles on the shoes and make sure there is a thick layer of rubber on the bottom that won't wear down quickly. DeLauro recommended looking for shoes made with Vibram soles, which are designed to be more rugged and durable across a variety of terrains. No matter what price point you're shopping at, Piselli said you want to make sure the shoes you buy fit and accommodate your feet well. 'If you have a bunion and it is sticking out when you try the shoes on, then that area is likely going to fail quickly,' Piselli said. 'If you have bumps on the back of your heels and the shoes taper tight to the heels, you will likely wear holes there.' DeLauro recommends getting shoes with laces as opposed to slip-ons since the laces can be adjusted for a better fit around the midfoot and forefoot and offer better control and support. Ideally, you also want shoes with cushioned insoles that give some support to the arch. At higher prices, you're often paying for more advanced technology and better materials in your sneakers, but DeLauro said sometimes the main benefit of materials like higher grade foams is that they make for lighter shoes than more budget-friendly styles. While grabbing a cheaper pair of sneakers can be a short-term money saver, investing a bit more into your shoes often means they'll resist wear and last longer. If you're planning to wear a pair of shoes frequently, like for long days on your feet at work, DeLauro recommended investing a bit more into your footwear to make sure you have the support you need to stay comfortable. 'If you stand all day at your job, you want good arch support to not only support your feet but also support your knees, hips and lower back,' DeLauro said. The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Elizabeth Piselli and Dr. Nicole M. DeLauro, and vice president of merchandising at Warehouse Shoe Sale, Michael Foley. What are good budget running shoes? What are good budget running shoes? Everyone's feet have different needs and you want running shoes that support the size and shape of your feet properly, no matter the cost. Piselli said you can find good running shoes from popular brands by shopping from last year's styles or heading to the sale sections. Some running sneakers under $100 that our experts recommend include the Nike Pegasus 41 PRM shoes, New Balance's Fresh Foam 680v8 styles and the Adidas X_PLR Path sneakers. Are Skechers a good cheap sneaker? Are Skechers a good cheap sneaker? Associate editor Rachel Dennis recently spoke to podiatrists for her story on the best Skechers shoes to shop. The consensus was that Skechers makes a lot of good sneakers under $100 with features like plush cushioning, padded insoles and arch support that can keep your feet comfortable through walking, hiking or long days at work. Are canvas or leather sneakers more comfortable? Are canvas or leather sneakers more comfortable? Both canvas and leather sneakers can be comfortable, but which materials you choose depends more on how you intend to style them. Foley said canvas shoes tend to be more versatile and style best with laid back looks, while leather ones can offer a more refined, elevated feel. He also suggests a type of leather called nubuck as an alternative to traditional leather. 'Known for its soft texture and premium look, [nubuck] offers excellent durability, holds its shape over time and is easier to clean than suede,' Foley said. For ultimate breathability, mesh sneakers are the best option and will stretch to offer a better fit, but DeLauro said if you prefer leather shoes, look for soft leather constructions that can better mold to the shape of your feet. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Samantha Dawn, personal stylist and style coach Dr. Nicole M. DeLauro, podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Michael Foley, vice president of merchandising at Warehouse Shoe Sale Dr. Elizabeth Piselli, podiatrist and current president of the American Association for Women Podiatrists CNN Underscored has a team of 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 relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy talked to two podiatrists, a personal stylist, a merchandiser for shoes and an array of CNN Underscored editors to compile a list of the most comfortable and stylish sneakers that won't break the bank.
