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Walking around Brown University can take up a good amount of steps, especially between classes as you power-walk up College Hill in the wind. As the weather cools down, your shoes matter more than you think. Even though a good pair of boots can amp up an outfit, it is important to use footwear that is durable with the winter weather and provides cushion for the foot, while being fashionable. It is also important that these shoes match up to athletic wear purchased from Black Friday and Cyber Monday, especially if you dove into Parke’s Black Friday Sale for 2025.
Whether you are heading to Nelson or speeding to make your 9am, here are the four athletic shoes I am manifesting for winter and spring:
On Cloud: Cloud 6 ($160)
Coming in with 6 colors, the On Cloud’s Cloud 6 shoe is one of the best sellers for the brand overall. Almost as if you are floating, my Cloud 6’s have made walking across the Main Green feather-light and warm. The Cloud 6 is also able to curate differing outfits without sacrificing comfort, while being able to sustain the New England weather.
A pair of Cloud 6 with your favorite puffer, sweatshirt, and tote bag is the ultimate put-together yet comfortable look. These are perfect for students who are constantly on the move but want an easily dressable shoe, while also having the ability to do their run workouts.
Hoka: Clifton 10 ($155)
The ultimate walking shoe, the Hoka’s Clifton 10 have been one of the most trending athletic shoes. With 15 color selections, the Clifton 10 are soft and cushioned to make even running feel enjoyable. As the wind kicks up and possible rainy weather comes to a start, these shoes provide a tool for continuing your running workout, without fear of slipping.
These shoes go well with any workoutset, including styling them with a monochrome workset set and oversized zip up for the post-run campus coffee look.
New Balance: 550 ($110)
My personal favorite, the New Balance 550 shoe shows how an athletic shoe can be used for a stylish outfit. As it is not a traditional running shoe, the 550s are sporty and perfect for walking around campus. These shoes are able to be a choice for anyone and any outfit, while providing cushions and sole support.
You can wear your 550s with jeans, leggings, sweats, etc. As the shoe goes with anything, they are also able to have a classic durable outsole that is meant to have a high friction color on wet surfaces. This good traction makes it a highly likable shoe, according to RunRepeat.
Nike: Run Defy ($65)
A budget friendly option that still holds the same quality of running shoes are the Run Defy by Nike. These shoes are able to find balance in being sleep walking shoes that hold performance and everyday wear. Made for road running, the shoes hold great reviews in the accessibility to fashion and activewear.
With a nice activewear outfit for gameday or any other event, these shoes can pair well. Especially if with any of the items on the 10 Game day Must-Haves List.
With easier mobility, cuter style, and an athletic feel, it is important to have one or all of these shoes in your collection. Level up your activewear while enhancing your style all around.