Let me start by saying that there's no such thing as magic shoes (I wish). No pair of running sneakers, no matter how high tech, can really fix an injury. So, keep that in mind as I tell you a short story.
Over the past year, I've rekindled my longtime relationship with running. But being the impatient person I am, I ramped up my mileage too quickly and came down with an extremely frustrating knee injury.
Video of the Day
Video of the Day
After a lot of physical therapy, aqua jogging, cross-training and many failed (and tearful) running attempts, I'm finally back to my favorite sport. Well, I say that loosely, considering I'm running for a minute, followed by a minute of walking twice a week. But even my speed-obsessed self is grateful for the progress.
And while my gradual recovery is the result of a lot of personal effort, I do have to give my new running sneakers, the Lululemon Blissfeel, a little bit of love.
A Quick Language Note
We make deliberate choices about the language we use, but most manufacturers, like Lululemon, market running sneakers to women and men. The main differences between most women's and men's shoes are width and size. In some cases, men's shoes are built to support greater weights, so people with bigger bodies may want to try men's versions, while people with smaller bodies may prefer women's versions.
The Lululemon Blissfeel shoes come in women's sizes 5 to 11, but availability varies depending on the color you prefer.
Functionality and Features
I was pretty hesitant to try Lululemon's new running sneakers — I'm pretty devoted to New Balance and Brooks, if I'm being honest. And considering Lululemon is first and foremost a yoga brand (despite the fact that I love their running clothes), I wasn't too sure what to think.
But the utter surprise on my face as I laced up my Blissfeel running shoes was evidence enough (according to my roomie, at least). Lululemon proved me wrong. After walking, jogging and (slowly) running in my sneaks, I can confidently say the Blissfeel shoes are a force to be reckoned with.
I have a few non-negotiables with running shoes, and structure is one of them. I don't love an overly-flexible running shoe and these sneakers are the perfect middle ground. The midfoot has just enough support to help me feel secure and stable, while the upper mesh offers plenty of comfort and breathability for longer treks.
The heels have a little extra cushion, helping comfortably lock my foot in place, preventing all-too-common heel blisters. And the tongue is padded for a little extra cushion on the bony part of my foot.
The best part of these shoes? Probably the cushion level. This factor is a personal preference, but I don't love an overly-soft, cushy running shoe. Although I rock Hokas for errands and long walks, I wouldn't wear them on a run, as high cushion feels too bulky for the quick turns on my usual routes. With that said, minimal pairs feel a little too grounded for the level of mileage I do each week.
The Blissfeel is a goldilocks sneaker — not too cushioned, not too minimal. I get a little bounce with every step, while still feeling agile, quick and coordinated on my feet.
Get Your Perfect Pair of Lululemon Blissfeel Shoes
I don't often stray from my tried-and-true running brands, but Lululemon doesn't fail to impress. And considering the company keeps releasing new colors, it's safe to say other runners are loving them, too.
Don't take my word for it! Lace up your own pair of Blissfeel running shoes and enjoy a perfectly cushioned run.
Buy it: Lululemon.com; Price: $148
