The 2019 Shape Shoe Awards Have a Pair for Every Occasion

By Jenn Barthole and Molly Longman
March 13, 2019
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
We’ve rounded up the best new pairs for work and play, testing dozens of sneakers and cherry-picking the shoe styles you’ll love for those off-duty hours. And the winners are...
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Rock Studio Classes: Ryka Devotion XT

Credit: JONATHON KAMBOURIS
Buy It, $80

Our testers hit all manner of boutique fitness classes and loved the support and maneuverability of this crosstrainer. It did beautifully with dance routines, thanks to the durable sole and pivot point grooves on the ball of the foot.

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Fly Through Trails: Altra Superior 4

Credit: Altra Running
Buy It, $110

At an insanely light 6.3 ounces and with a zero drop (an even level from heel to toe), this trail shoe gives a sense of running barefoot in the woods—but with superior traction, comfort, and stability. Includes a removable rock plate. (Also check out these other trail running shoes if you want some more options.)

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Do Your Daily Miles: Brooks Glycerin 17

Credit: Brooks Running
Buy It, $150

This running shoe is a crowd-pleaser at every distance. Cushy enough to put in long miles (even the sock liner is plush) and nimble enough for quick dashes. “Bouncy, light support,” one happy tester said.

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Cross-Train In Any Way: Nike Free TR8

Credit: Nike
Buy It, $100

Here’s your get-it-done gym shoe. The outsole features a ton of flex grooves to make it very limber for lunges, and the low-to-the-floor heel keeps you rooted for lifts and kettlebell swings. (Here are other shoes that are great for strength training.) Our testers also touted its airy breathability.

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Take a Day Hike: Merrell MQM Ace

Credit: Merrell
Buy It, $130

Make this your grab-and-go hiker for whenever you take on the less-beaten path. It’s light—an extra air cushion in the heel adds stability without bulk—and low profile, which is ideal for those spring treks. (If you're hitting a National Park, consider splurging on this other gear too.)

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HIIT the Treadmill: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V9

Credit: New Balance
Buy It, $150

Its snug fit—the heel is 3-D molded, and the upper wraps your midfoot—and roomy toe box are suited to switches of pace. The sole is also pressure mapped, so those full-speed forefoot strikes get ample cushioning where you need it most.

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Run the Rough Stuff: Adidas Terrex Agravic XT GTX

Credit: Adidas
Buy It, $170

This sturdy trail runner was built for rocky terrain, with grippy lugs and a Gore-Tex inner lining that keeps the grit and wet out. Our testers really liked the stability and springy midsole—your legs will too.

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Stride Softly In Max Cush: Hoka One One Bondi 6

Credit: Hoka One One
By It, $150

Cushion seekers, this is virtually the fattest ride you can get, even though the road shoe is a feathery 8.6 ounces, thanks to a lightenedup outsole. Our testers loved it down to its easy-to-unknot laces.

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Play In the Water: Salomon Amphib Bold

Credit: Salomon
Buy It, $100

Take this meshy, quick-draining sneaker for any water adventure: kayaking, running on the beach, a day at the lake. Testers liked the cinch-tightened cord-like laces—no soggy conventional laces to tie—and the comfy feel.

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Be Up for Turf or Trail: Eddie Bauer Highland Sneaker Boot

Credit: Eddie Bauer
Buy It, $120

The versatile high-top is an example of a trending hybrid: a casual hiker for forays on light trails that doubles as an about-town shoe. Our testers were won over by its slightly tailored look and functionality.

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Work a New 9-To-5 Shoe: Vionic Keke

Credit: Vionic
Buy It, $140

Its rich suede makes this tailored sneaker sophisticated enough to rival your loafers. Plus, the podiatrist-designed sole means you’ll be the last boss standing.

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Nail Any Dress Code: Keds Kickstart

Credit: Keds
Buy It, $70

Thanks to a metallic sheen and barely there laces, this sneaker exudes subtle sophistication that makes a great stand-in (or a permanent swap) for heels. Match it with a flowing dress or denim.

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Ace Summer Whites: Aldo Woallan

Credit: Aldo
Buy It, $70

Classic white sneaks never go out of style, and this beauty offers an edgier, textured twist. Pair it with, well, everything.

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Errand All Day: Allbirds Tree Runners

Credit: Allbirds
Buy It, $95

The simplistically chic sneaker has mastered the art of going nonstop, with remarkably soft eucalyptus pulp uppers and a flexible sole that will support hours of schlepping. (BTW, they originally made a splash with their one-of-a-kind wool sneakers.)

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Love Your Platforms: Schutz Luana

Credit: Schutz Shoes
Buy It, $140

Play up the platform trend with this bold and wearable espadrille style. You’ll boost your stature and your outfit.

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Go for a Retro Vibe: Tory Sport Bubble Double Strap

Credit: Tory Sport
Buy It, $248

Classic sneakers are having a moment, and this statement shoe playfully captures the best parts of the throwback trend—including chunky soles and Velcro straps. (Give these other chunky dad shoes a try too.)

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Travel Light On Your Feet: FitFlop Allegro Ballet Flat

Credit: Fitflop
Buy It, $100

The demure, featherweight flat has enhanced cushioning and a durable slip-resistant rubber outsole to guarantee comfort for a day on the go.

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Flash Some Whimsy: Skechers High Street Glitter Rockers

Credit: Skechers
Buy It, $65

Spring is here—a green light to bring on fun footwear, like this shimmery standout. It will give instant pizzazz to any neutral ensemble as you walk cushily with swagger. (More glitter sneakers this way.)

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Step Up the Wow Factor: Roger Vivier Viv’ Run

Credit: Roger Vivier
Buy It, $925

This slipon is about as luxe and fashion-forward a move you could make with the thick-soled footwear trend. And that statement buckle keeps up with the chicest street style.

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