Three pairs of trainers: grey mesh with blue accents, black with white detailing, and white with brown stripes, arranged on a pink background.

The best sneaker picksThis month: lifestyle running sneakers

For this episode of SNEAKER ROTATION, we’re lacing up with certified sneakerhead Dani Buck who has the tea on the comfiest, hottest, and most adaptable lifestyle running kicks.

28 July 2025 · 3 min read

Running shoes used to be all about hitting the track and getting your steps in. Today they’ve sprinted far beyond pure performance gear. Lifestyle running sneakers, meaning non-performance sneakers that draw aesthetic inspiration from athletic footwear, have quietly taken over and become the go-to for anyone who values a bit of comfort and sporty feel in their wardrobe.

In this episode of SNEAKER ROTATION we linked up with none other than certified sneakerhead Dani Buck to get the inside scoop on this white-hot footwear trend.

What is the “modern lifestyle running” trend and what advice would you give to someone looking to incorporate that style into their looks? The “modern lifestyle running” trend is all about taking performance-inspired sneakers, like running shoes, and styling them for everyday life. It’s the blend of sporty and casual that makes you look active, even if you’re just grabbing coffee or running errands.

My advice? Pick a pair that feels comfortable enough for all-day wear but has details you love, like a fun colour-pop or a retro vibe. Then, balance it out with relaxed basics: wide-leg pants, an oversized tee, or even a pastel set to add personality.

What’s your favourite element of the modern lifestyle running aesthetic, and how does it shape the way you dress day-to-day? I love how it blends sporty chic with that tech-y, functional vibe. I love pieces that feel light, breathable, and a bit futuristic, it’s like wearing performance gear, but styled for the city. Comfort is huge for me too. I love mixing those athletic elements with everyday staples. It really shapes how I dress — everything has to be comfy, a little sporty, and still feel like me.

Is there something special about wearing a lifestyle shoe powered by performance tech? What does that balance mean to you? Absolutely! It’s like having the best of both worlds — you get that sporty, on-trend look, but you also know your feet are supported if you end up walking all day or running to catch a train.

ADIDAS ADIZERO ARUKU

Running shoe vibes without the whole… running part? The adidas Aruku looks and feels like walking on cloud nine.

ADIDAS ADIZERO ARUKU

Running shoe vibes without the whole… running part? The adidas Aruku looks and feels like walking on cloud nine.

ASCIS JOG 100 S

The ASICS JOG 100 S brings retro runner energy without the race-day stress. Lace up, zone out.

ASCIS JOG 100 S

The ASICS JOG 100 S brings retro runner energy without the race-day stress. Lace up, zone out.

On a personal note, what got you into sneakers? What really got me into sneakers was playing basketball as a teenager. That’s when I got introduced to the whole hip hop community and everything that came with it: the culture, the music, the street style. And one huge part of that world was sneakers. They weren’t just shoes, they were a statement, a way to express yourself, and show a bit of your personality without saying a word. That love for sneakers just stuck with me ever since.

Do you ever build outfits around your sneakers, or do you let them be the finishing touch? Honestly, I usually have one piece I really want to wear, like a hoodie, jacket, or even a pair of sneakers and then I build my outfit around that. Sometimes the sneakers are that hero piece, especially if they have a bold color or a cool silhouette that stands out.

How important is versatility in your wardrobe, especially when it comes to footwear? Versatility is very important to me — especially with footwear. I’d say I pretty much have a pair for every occasion! From sporty runners for everyday errands, to sleek sneakers I can dress up for a night out. I love knowing my shoes can keep up with my plans. A versatile sneaker just makes getting dressed so much easier and more fun.

What’s one pair you’d never part with, no matter how beat-up they get? The Nike x Tom Sachs Mars Yard 2.0!