Dad shoes, or sneakers, or whatever your old man calls them, are cool now. Yes, those cringe-worthy shoes your dad used to buy and wear because they were “comfortable” are now popular among teens, fashionistas, hipsters, and grown men alike. In fact, these so-ugly-they-became-cool shoes are now part of a high-fashion world that influences the consumer marketplace, including the running world.
So, the question is: Can you actually cover any serious running mileage in a dad shoe? For the most part, sure—though you’ll have better luck with shoes designed specifically for running, as they tend to be lighter weight, more breathable, and made to hold up mile after mile. However, if you're a casual runner looking to log a few miles per week, these dad shoes can get you go where you're going in comfort and—depending on who you ask—style.
Here are seven dad shoes that double as great walking and running shoes. Bonus: You don’t need to be a father (or even a guy) to wear them—many of these options are available in women’s sizes, as well.
The Best Dad Shoes of 2022
How We Chose These Shoes
Every product listed below has been thoroughly evaluated and vetted by our team of test editors. We research the market, survey user reviews, follow the latest sneaker releases, and use our own experience running and kicking back in these shoes to determine the best options available. Some models have been tested by our staff, and those that haven’t have been carefully chosen based on their value, technical fabrics, comfort, and style.
Looking for a shoe that can handle some serious training? Check out our picks for the best running shoes.
Nike Air Monarch IV
Pros
- Classic color options
Cons
- Can feel a bit clunky
Known as “the king of dad shoes,” this thickly cushioned trainer is back in style for all your workout needs. Nike even released an all-denim model for Father’s Day. The shoe sports a thick foam midsole with a full-length Air-Sole unit for lightweight cushion and bounce. The upper is made from a mix of leather and mesh. Just be warned that everyone will hear you coming from a block away—the Air Monarch is legendary for its new-shoe squeak.
Adidas Yung-1
Pros
- Fun color blocking
Cons
- Limited sizing in certain colors
Available in an ever-increasing array of color options, this thick-soled casual shoe re-envisions '90s clunky sneaker style. The Yung-1 has a thick EVA foam midsole molded in a retro shape, and a mesh upper with suede overlays. You can find it in dad-approved all white, as well as several wilder color options.
Hoka Bondi L
Pros
- Classic and fun colors
Cons
- Limited sizes in some colors
The OG Hoka was shockingly thick when it first dropped in 2011, but its design has since become increasingly streamlined, meaning it now resembles a reasonable trainer ready to power your next marathon PR. Hoka’s early-stage meta-rocker sole gives these a natural feel when walking, and the cushioning keeps you comfortable all day.
New Balance 608v4
Pros
- Comes in multiple widths
Cons
- Not very breathable
Few sneakers deliver an almost-Seinfeldian level of normcore authenticity like these New Balances. Expect them to stay plush and comfortable, even when you’re on your feet all day. The shoes have a wide, forgiving toe box, flexible but firm midsole with plenty of cushion, and a leather upper.
Reebok Aztrek
Pros
- Lots of color options
Cons
- Not the most durable
Another retro relaunch, the Aztrek is an all-terrain runner with a thick midsole and rugged rubber outsole. The current Reebok Aztrek is pretty faithful to the OG version, right down to the same synthetic suede and mesh upper, logo stripes, reflective details, and Hexalite cushioning. Reebok recently dropped a Nintendo-themed version, if you really want to go for an all-out '90s look.
New Balance 993
Pros
- Great quality
Cons
- Expensive
These classic shoes are not only the quintessential dad shoe, but they are comfortable, have great quality, and will last you for years and years. These have been worn by dads all across the US since the '90s—and we're pretty sure many pops out there are still wearing the same pair all these years later. They are also one of the few NB shoes still made in America.
Adidas Yeezy 500
Pros
- Unique style
- Basic color goes with everything
Cons
- Very expensive
How do you even capture the chunkiness of this shoe in words? The Yeezy 500 has an oversized, bulbous design with an adiprene-cushioned midsole that looks like waves or an invasion of cumulus clouds. The shoe’s upper is made from suede overlaid on mesh, and is designed for all-day comfort. Be warned: These might be hard to snag at retail value.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
