Are yeezys good for running?

As iconic sneakers go, few shoes have reached the legendary status of Kanye West’s Yeezy line. With their instantly recognizable chunky silhouettes, vibrant colorways, and sky-high resale values, Yeezys have become true cultural phenomenons coveted by hypebeasts and sneakerheads alike.

But are Yeezys actually suitable for athletic activities like running? With all the hype surrounding the shoes, it’s a fair question for those looking for a stylish yet functional running sneaker. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how well Yeezys perform for runners.

The Rise Of Yeezys

First debuting in 2015, the adidas Yeezy Boosts were the first sneakers born out of the creative partnership between German sportswear giant adidas and American rapper/producer Kanye West. Merging West’s avant-garde aesthetic with adidas’ sports engineering, the chunky Yeezys were an instant revelation, shattering the conventional design language for athletic footwear.

Since that first drop, Yeezys have transcended their niche appeal to become full-blown pop culture attractions. With both lifestyle and performance models now available across low, mid and high variants, the Yeezy line encompasses a range of futuristic sneaker styles coveted equally by athletes, fashionistas and collectors.

But while the Yeezy phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down, serious runners may still be wondering – can you actually use Yeezys for running?

Key Features Of Yeezys

When evaluating trainers for running suitability, it helps to break down their structural composition and technologies. Here are some of the core features of classic Yeezy models:

  • Chunky silhouette – The exaggerated proportions and thick build give Yeezys their statement appearance. However, this bulkier construction isn’t ideal for running efficiency.
  • Boost midsole – adidas Boost foam is highly responsive and absorbing. It does provide energy return with each stride, beneficial for running.
  • Primeknit upper – Woven material offers adaptive stretch and support around the foot. It allows decent breathability while securing the foot over long distances.
  • Rubber outsole – The exaggerated lugs offer plenty of traction, although the heavy tread can feel cumbersome when running.
  • Ortholite insole – The cushioned insole aids comfort and shock absorption. This helps prevent fatigue when on your feet.

Evaluating Yeezys For Running

When reviewing Yeezys expressly for running capability, we need to analyze areas that directly impact a shoe’s performance for athletic training:

Weight

Running shoes need to strike the right balance between support and lightweight feel. Unfortunately, most Yeezy models are on the chunkier end weight-wise. Except racing flats, the average running shoe weighs around 8-12oz for men and 6-10oz for women.

Meanwhile, according to RunRepeat’s sneaker weight database, most Yeezy Boost 350 V2 models average 16oz for a men’s size 9 US. That puts them on the heavier end for athletic trainers. You’ll certainly feel the difference trying to pick up speed in those thick Yeezy soles versus nimble runners.

Cushioning

No matter your pace or mileage, cushioning is crucial for running shoes to provide shock absorption and comfort over long distances. Yeezys fortunately excel here; full-length Boost midsoles give them bouncy, energy-loaded cushioning that maintains responsiveness even over hundreds of miles.

For runners prioritizing cushioning above all else, Yeezys have appropriate shock-attenuating properties to protect joints and encourage fluid foot strikes. Just expect a looser, less agile ride due to their weight.

Traction

Grip is paramount for safe, controlled runs across varied surfaces. Yeezys are well equipped traction-wise thanks to conspicuously lugged rubber outsoles. The exaggerated treads ensure stability whether you’re pounding pavements or light trails. However, the thicker sole tread also makes them less suited for faster turnover runs.

Breathability

Proper ventilation is key to preventing overheated feet over long distances. Here, Yeezys offer decent if not outstanding breathability. Side vents and woven textile uppers allow some airflow to cool feet. Compared to mesh running shoes though, hotfoot discomfort can set in quicker in Yeezys’ thicker constructions. Just bear that in mind for marathon training versus casual runs.

Durability

Any runner logging serious weekly mileage needs shoes that can withstand heavy training demands. Yeezys are mixed bags in this department. Boost midsoles retain their energetic bounce even over hundreds of miles.

Yet build quality and design issues lead to common problems like sole separation or primeknit tears in overly worn pairs. Their durability suits casual runners, but hardcore runners will degrade Yeezys quicker than dedicated running shoes.

Style

Last but certainly not least, style plays a major role in Yeezys’ success. Even as hardcore running sneakers, they double as lifestyle streetwear given their iconic profiles. For runners wanting to train in head-turning kicks, Yeezys let you log miles while looking slick whether you’re at the gym or off-duty.

Yeezy Models Best Suited For Running

Given all the above factors, the heftier high-top Yeezy models like the Yeezy Boost 700 are too heavy and restrictive for serious running. However, a few of the lighter, slimmed-down models have traits better suited for athletic usage:

  • adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 – The quintessential Yeezy for most collectors is also the best candidate for running. Weighing just over 12oz, it has decent cushioning and traction in a slimmer profile for easier mobility. Models like the “Zebra” even have ventilated primeknit uppers to dissipate heat on summer runs.
  • adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V1 – The OG debut Yeezy sneaker has a fitted one-piece upper lacking the V2’s center stitching, reducing irritation over longer distances. Flat one-piece outsoles also encourage smooth heel-to-toe transitions on runs.
  • adidas Yeezy Boost 380 – At just 11oz, current 380 models are Yeezy’s lightest sneaker outside the 350s. The alien-esque silhouette also allows greater freedom of movement with its translucent stretchy upper and compressive sock-like collar.

While nowhere near pure racing shoes in weight and performance, the above models have traits like sufficient cushioning, traction and breathability if you insist on running in Kanye’s kicks. Purist runners still displeased by their heavier builds can salvage Yeezys for easygoing jogs and gym sessions instead.

Getting The Most Miles Out Of Yeezys

For those determined to use Yeezys for running, a few precautions will help maximize their lifespan as trainer/runners:

  • Rotate multiple pairs – Rotating gives individual shoes more recovery time from the stresses of running. Make one pair your designated “running Yeezys” alongside other workout pairs.
  • Use supportive insoles – Either OEM Yeezy or quality third-party insoles will limit midsole compression and improve comfort over hundreds of miles.
  • Run on gentler surfaces – Stick to track circuits, grass or dirt trails rather than harsh concrete and asphalt to reduce midsole and outsole wear and tear.
  • Check for wear pre-run – Inspect for loosened stitching, sole separation or correct insoles before lacing up. Catching issues early prevents them worsening mid-run.
  • Clean regularly – Wash uppers gently in cold water or wipe mid/outsoles thoroughly after muddy trail runs to prevent soil erosion and fabric stains.

While no match athletically for pure racing flats, Yeezys still have crossover potential as running trainers for less intensive training. Take care of them well, and you can show off stylish kicks whether crushing miles or crushing fashion.

FAQs On Running In Yeezys

Technically you can run lengthy miles in Yeezys thanks to their ample cushioning. But slimmer, breathable running shoes are still better suited for marathon training versus Yeezys’ thicker builds. Use them more moderately for short to intermediate runs under 10K distances instead.

Road running on pavements and sidewalks is easiest in Boost-cushioned Yeezys given their responsive midsoles and durable traction. Light trail usage is possible in dry conditions too although their paler primeknit uppers can stain quicker than mixed-material trail runners. Avoid wearing most Yeezys in muddy, loose off-road conditions.

With care, rotation and replacing worn components like insoles, you can feasibly rack up 200-300 miles running in Boost-based Yeezys models. Compare that to 500-600 miles for specialist runners built for high mileage. Running too far past a Yeezy’s limits risks blowing out their cemented midsole constructions.

You sure can. Quality supportive insoles from brands like Superfeet and SOLE can vastly improve running comfort in Yeezys over time. Just ensure any added insole doesn’t overly tighten toe room or make the fit too snug. A perfect balance ensures cushioning without restricting your foot’s natural splay.

With care and moderation, utilizing Yeezys casually for runs likely won’t damage feet long-term. Key is not overdoing distances which their constructions aren’t designed for versus proper running shoes. As long as you’re not logging ultra marathon miles constantly, occasional runs likely pose low injury risks.

While the hype tells us we can do anything in Yeezys, purely performance-based runners should look towards dedicated trainers for peak running returns. Still, Boost-equipped Yeezy models have ample virtues as crossover kick/trainers for the style-conscious. For those wedded indissolubly to the Yeezy aesthetic, you can indeed log miles in Kanye’s shoes – just do so judiciously for maximum mileage.

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