The perfect sneaker for the everyday runner, as tested by a fitness enthusiast

Despite being a fitness enthusiast, I confess I've always had a love-hate relationship with running. My journey in truly loving pounding the pavement has been a long and winding one, to say the least. I used to only run on the treadmill on my own; now I can only face a scenic jog with friends – a healthy dose of gossip always improves a run (this is based on vibes, not science, FYI).

I ebb and flow between running many times a week to weeks passing by without even looking at a pair of running sneakers. I'm constantly finding myself restarting my running journey. But I suppose getting stressed out about it rather diminishes the fun that exercise is supposed to be!

If you often find yourself struggling to find the motivation to love running, I totally get it; I can empathise. Fortunately for us, New Balance has picked up on this shared sentiment. The brand has created a sneaker so comfortable and energetic that you blissfully forget that you're putting one foot in front of the other. Put simply, it aims to fuse running and the joy it can bring.

If you're a newbie to the running scene or want to knock out some comfy, casual miles, then I have the perfect sneaker for you.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

New Balance Ellipse

$240 | New Balance$240 | Pace Athletic

Despite being a little (very) inconsistent with my running, I've tried many different running shoes over the years. I've tried styles to get me through half marathons, comfy casual options for short runs, reactive designs for speed sessions, and energetic options for hybrid races like Hyrox.

I'm pretty picky about what I like with running or gym sneakers, but I was super impressed with the ease and comfort of the New Balance Ellipse.

What I love about them

Despite maybe looking weighty with all the cushioning, these sneakers are incredibly lightweight. Built with New Balance's Fresh Foam X cushioning, a light and reactive foam, to keep your body and feet supported while pounding the pavement.

I'm a pretty flat-footed, heavy-footed runner, which is a pretty labourious combination at the best of times. So this bouncy design helps keep me moving.

The sneakers feature a breathable mesh upper, which helps keep your feet feeling lightweight and cool on those sweatier runs.

Now that we're settling into shorter Autumn daylight hours (sad), I like that the Ellipses have reflective detailing to help keep you visible to cars if you're an early bird or a night owl exerciser.

Running isn't a fashion show, but I will always choose the most outlandish colour or pattern for my sneakers, shorts, sports bras, whatever – I love the personal expression. When you feel good in your workout gear, the workout itself feels better. The Ellipses come in a range of cool colours from pink to purple to neon yellow. New Balance track athlete Gabby Thomas has also released her own take on the shoes – a shimmering pinky-reddy colourway that is to die for.

I've had many compliments on my bright ones!

My final verdict

These sneakers have been designed with the everyday runner in mind. New Balance's sole motive is to encourage runners of all types to get outside and enjoy their run – and that's a refreshing take.

I want to enjoy running my way, and with the New Balance Ellipses, I feel like I can. The comfort, energy, and bounce they provide make running feel easier and more enjoyable, and ultimately, that's what gets me out the door.

I've been using these sneakers non-stop for the past few weeks, and they've carried me through 5kms, 15kms, speed sessions, and walks. If you're a casual runner who prioritises comfort, bounce, and style, then these are definitely for you.

Other sneakers for the everyday runner

Asics Gel-Kayano 32

$280 | Asics$280 | Pace Athletic20% off | The Iconic

New Balance 1080v15

$280 | New Balance$160 | Pace Athletic$280 | The Iconic

On Running Cloudmonster 3

$290 | Pace Athletic$290 | On Running

Altra Experience Flow 3

On sale now | Pace Athletic

Nike Pegasus Plus

$260 | Nike

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