How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Running Shoes

The Chronic Marathoner: Clifton 9

If running is your life – not just a "for fun" hobby – the Clifton 9's are the shoe for you. There's a reason why they're heralded by runners everywhere!

This award-winning Hoka style (it's been granted the Seal of Approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association) is super lightweight at 7.3 oz, but it's still impressively stable and soft. It boasts a plush heel designed for running and walking, so it's destined to get you wherever you're going in the utmost comfort.

These shoes have a very breathable knit upper, while the outsole is crafted with rubber for durability. Stability was top of mind in making these, and you'll have smooth heel-to-toe transitions with every step.

The Hoka Clifton 9's come in 20 different colorways for $145.

The Hot Girl Walker: Bondi 8

If you can't go a day without getting your steps in, it's important that you go for your hot girl walks with the right shoe so you can avoid potential strain and injuries. Per Hoka, the Bondi 8's are one of the "hardest working" shoes in their lineup, and it's specifically designed for walking and running (hot girl style).

It's also earned the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association for its unmatched stability and all-around support. The Bondi 8's are fitted with a pillowed tongue and a memory foam ankle lining for comfort. They're certainly on the plusher side when it comes to Hoka shoes, but they're not so much so that you feel unsure about your steps. They weigh in at 8.9 oz, so they're noticeably heavier than the Clifton 9's.

The foam bottom extends beyond your natural heel for additional support, plus they're an easy on and off thanks to the pull tab at the back.

The Hoka Bondi 8's currently come in 16 different colors for $165.

The Gym Rat: Mach 6

Gym rats, rise up! The Hoka Mach 6's boast the perfect weight, height, and cushion for taking you from the weight rack to the track. They're more streamlined in their design – the most noticeable difference being less heel height than the Clifton or Bondi models. Your foot will definitely be closer to the ground, which is beneficial for movements that involve balance.

While the Cliftons and Bondis have super thick and cushy soles, the Mach 6 soles are crafted from a firmer material for support. Though tougher, they still clock in at 6.7 oz. They're complete with an exceptionally responsive foam midsole that allows for more bounce, plus the outsole has a rubber coating for durability – making your shoe purchase last longer and look new for longer. This gorgeous colorway is an added bonus!

The Mach 6's are currently shoppable in 7 colors for $140.

The Trail Runner: Challenger 7

These Hokas were made for the granola girls who love to venture to the mountains for a cheeky trail run or hike. They have tons of grip the textured sole, ideal for road and trail running. The sole is fashioned with more aggressive lugs around the perimeter to help manage uneven surfaces without risk of injury.

The Challenger 7's boast a decently thick height for plushness to catch your steps, plus they have protective cushioning around the ankle to stabilize your movement.

These weigh in at 7.7 oz, come in 10 different colors, and are shoppable for $145.

Just like with 5K training, the first and most important step is to pick a race and sign up for it. Having a race or goal on the schedule helps with motivation and a hard timeline helps with planning training. One place you can check for local races is findarace.com — just search by the type of race you want to run and where you want to run it!

How many days does it take to train for a 10K?

Typical training for a 10K should take 8-10 weeks, however there may be other factors to consider as well.

• If you've recently completed 5K training and are feeling confident and ready to hop into the next goal, you may not need the full 8-10 weeks.
• If you're feeling fit and conditioned from a previous race, you probably only need 6-8 weeks to train for a 10K.

How do I pace myself for a 10K?

If you've run a few 5Ks and are wondering what goal time to shoot for, there are few tips to figure out where to start. First, it's important to remember that a 10K is twice the distance of a 5K. Whatever your best or most recent 5K time is, you likely cannot hold it for another 3.1 miles. I would recommend doubling your total typical 5K time and adding 3-5 minutes to get your goal time. For example if you recently ran a 25 minute 5K, shoot for a 10K time of 53-55 minutes.

How do beginners train for a 10K run?

Your training plan should look similar to a 5K training plan with 4-5 days a week of running. This should include 1-2 speed workouts, a few easy jogs, and a weekly long run. Just like with 5K training, you never want to do 2 speed workouts back-to-back — it's best to have a rest day or 1-2 easy jog days between speed sessions to allow your muscles to recover and rebuild.

While long runs and easy jogs are relatively self-explanatory, speed workouts can seem ambiguous. Instead of leaving you in the dark, here are two examples of speed sessions you could implement into your training regiment.

Example 1:

• 1 mile jog warm up
• 6-8x 800m (2 laps of a traditional track or ½ of a mile) at a hard but sustainable 7-8/10 effort. Take 2 minutes between each
• 1 mile jog or walk cooldown

Example 2:

• 1 mile jog warm up
• 3 miles steady-hard (also known as tempo pace) at a 6-7/10 effort
• 1 mile walk or jog cooldown

Long runs are the most important part of any training block for races of 5K and up. Like the name suggests, long runs should be your longest run of the week. Depending on your skill and familiarity with distance running, your long runs will vary anywhere from 5 to 12 miles. I would recommend starting with 4-7 miles at the beginning of your training block, adding one half to a full mile every week. If you're running your first 10K, I would start with 4 miles with the end goal of your longest long run to be 8 miles. Yes, that means that your longest long run will be longer than your 10K race, but trust me — this will make the race distance seem doable and way less daunting. If you're a repeat racer (10Ks included), I would recommend starting with a 7-mile-long run and working your way up to 12 miles by the end of your training block.

How do I prep for race day?

To wind down your training, make sure to taper your miles down for at least 10 days before your race. This is where you lower the distance of your longest run over time as you get closer to the actual race, allowing you to properly rest beforehand.

When it comes to race day, the number one thing to remember is: don't go out too fast. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of a race and rocket off at the starting line, it won't feel good at mile 4. To ensure that you finish within your goal time, try to go out 15-20 seconds slower than your goal pace.

For example, if you have a 55 min goal time, that translates to running an 8:52 mile. I would recommend starting off your first mile at around a 9:10 mile pace and progressing from there. This will help you to finish strong and feeling your best.

Most importantly? Enjoy race day and celebrate finishing your goal!

Max and a Wild Thing Costumes

Let the wild rumpus start with this ferociously adorable costume. Your little Max will be regal in the cutest way possible and you'll be the cuddly momster who keeps him safe from whatever he's afraid of.

Mufasa and Simba Costumes

The Lion King is a nostalgic kids movie that touches our hearts every time we watch it. If you can quote every line Mufasa said to Simba, it's only right you embrace one of the cutest family Halloween costumes in our roundup.

Queen Bee[oncé] and Blue Ivy

Go for a punny pop culture costume with this playful look at Queen Beyoncé and Blue Ivy when she was an infant.

Edward Scissorhands

This year, we’re really digging this mommy and me version of Edward Scissorhands and the dinosaur bush. ‘Cause cuteness overload.

Beetlejuice Costumes

Don't get sick of us because this is easily our favorite costume and the most effortless one to put together thanks to our Halloween BFF, Amazon Prime.

Grease Costumes

Dress your little one as Danny Zuko from Grease while you don this Sandy Olsson costume. The matching red Converse are a must, and you can wear them all year long! Plus, you can add one of these leather jackets to your outfit to complete the full look.

Family of Trolls

Bring *all* the good luck with your very own team of trolls! You can take turns singing solo songs or have your own dance party before you go trick or treating.

The Labryinth Family Halloween Costumes

ICYMI, David Bowie was in a fantastical movie in the ‘80s and you need to see it ASAP. It’s creepy, strange, and beautiful all at the same time. Kind of like these costumes.

Lightening and Thunder

This mommy and me costume is elemental, to say the least. Your baby's cloud onesie can be a testament of the stork that braved a thunderstormto bring little one to your home.

Big Bird and Elmo

Real talk: Who has time to make more than one costume? It’s okay because your mini will lose their minds when they see the life-like Elmo ‘fit in person! Totally worth it.

Ewok Family Halloween Costumes

Are there cuter creatures than the Ewoks from Star Wars?! We don't think anyone will agree once they see you and your family dressed like them.

Finding Dory Family Halloween Costumes

Dress the whole fam in your fave marine creature cast! Dory, Hank, and Nemo FTW!

Paint Brush and Paint Palette

Live your most creative life when you and your babe match in these adorbs DIY costumes. Now it’s time to paint the town red!

Frida Kahlo

Of course Frida’s signature unibrow is an essential part of pulling off this look — for both mommy *and* bb.

The Princess Bride Costumes

The Princess Bride Costumes

Dress your littlest one as Inigo Montoya, Fezzik, Vizzini, or our personal fave pictured above — a R.O.U.S. (rodent of unusual size).

Aladdin Costumes

It's a "whole new world" with these Aladdin costumes. You and your besties can choose who'll wear the Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, and Abu the monkey costumes. Seriously, can you think of a cuter family trio?

Futuristic Family

Here’s one family’s take on what the future holds for us. They’re way more stylish than The Jetsons.

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Princess Peach and Toad Costumes

Pay homage to your favorite childhood video game and dress up as the original royal princess, complete with a tiny toad companion. It’s also the perfect excuse to try on the most outrageous princess dress you can find.

Cat in the Hat and Goldfish Costumes

This goldfish is completely DIY while the Cat in the Hat costume can be purchased online. The perfect balance of buy and DIY.

A Family of Circus Snacks

Who doesn’t love the sugar-filled snacks at the circus?! We know your family does so have dad dress as a bag of peanuts, while you hold a bag of popcorn in your cotton candy costume. And if someone requests gum drops a lot, have your daughter show everyone she knows how to have a great time.

Cop and Donut

These two pieces are easy to find at most costume stores or on Amazon if you don’t have time for a shopping trip. Finish the whole look off with a very stern donut-loving look and you’re good to go.

Katy Perry and Her Sharks

Before there was the song "Baby Shark," Katy Perry and her dancing large blue fish have to be one of our favorite pop culture memories of all time.

Toy Story Family Halloween Costumes

This is the perfect family costume for a family of any size since there are endless characters to choose from.

Usher and Bucket of Popcorn

The usher look is simple and a great last-minute costume — black skirt, white button-down, and bowtie. For the popcorn, grab your baby carrier and a handful of safety pins. That’s right — this is a totally temporary piece!

Winnie the Pooh

Willy nilly silly old bear and his best friends make for the cutest family Halloween costumes. Your neighbors won't stop smiling once they see your little girl dressed as piglet.

The Three Stooges

Larry, Curly, and Moe won many hearts throughout the mid-20th century. This goofy trio makes for the perfect (read: easy) kooky family costume. Get your giggles ready and pull out every suit piece you own to create these outfits.

The Incredibles

Not only is this one easy, but it’s also perfect for all those Pixar fans (hello, everyone). There’s nothing quite like a superhero family united in the service of justice.

Russian Nesting Dolls

A group of Russian nesting dolls is the perfect group Halloween costume for families of all sizes. The key is to dress every member of the family the same and include a piece with an intricate pattern.

Ariel and Sebastian

If you’re looking for a night full of undersea adventures, treasures, and dinglehoppers, this costume will definitely do the trick. Your little crab’s costume is as easy as a red onesie, a red headband, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes.

Princess Leia and An Ewok

This mommy and kiddo Star Wars costume is so good we’d rock it year-round.

Top Gun

Maverick? Check. Iceman? Yep. Goose? Obvs this little goose makes the perfect Anthony Edwards. Grab your aviators and get ready to teach your mini-me to fly.

Curious George and the Woman in the Yellow Hat

We know George loved the Man in the Yellow Hat, but your curious infant loves you. Make an exception to this character by becoming the zookeeper who has a special bond with her little monkey.

Saved By The Bell

’90s lovers, it’s time to introduce your little ones to everything magical about this nostalgic TV show. Mom jeans, leftover ’80s hair, and really large cordless phones. (via Brit + Co)

Sriracha and Taco

This one is a show-stopper! The trendy hot sauce can finally give you an excuse to turn your mini into a teeny tiny taco!

Rainbow and Sunshine

If you've been singing a mixture of "Rain, rain go away," and "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine," to your baby, you've already found the family Halloween costumes that'll work for you. What's a better way to honor your little sunshine than by pairing up as your mini’s rainbow?!

A Family of Frappes

These days we can all agree that Starbucks is pretty much a part of most family traditions. Recreate everyone’s favorite Starbucks drinks as a group Halloween costume!

Back to the Future

There’s no cuter Halloween trio than this loving tribute to Back to the Future.

Alice in Wonderland

Fall down the rabbit hole this Halloween and hit the town with a pint-sized Red Queen. Scour your local thrift store for a blue skirt and white blouse and put your own spin on the lovely Alice.

Jurassic Park Costumes

You and your S.O. can undoubtedly pull the necessary rugged clothes right from your closets, and all that’s left is finding your little one some sort of dino gear. We do love the half-hatched look, but if you’re out of time or are dealing with a cranky kiddo, just throw on their fave dino PJs.

Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Costume for Family of 4

Harness that rebellious spirit as a whole family this Halloween. All you’ll need are some PJs, cardboard swords, and a Pan getup.

Royal Family Costumes

Channel your inner royal with this adorable, yet sophisticated, family costume. Even if you don’t have this exact getup, a few key pieces will make you easily recognizable — like the fascinator and blue knee socks. Prince William not required (but always welcome)!

Where’s Waldo?

Pull out all of those striped shirts in your closet and pile on your wackiest accessories. Anything goes with these Waldo costumes.

Monster Family

Take a little inspiration from the famous Munsters this All Hallows’ Eve. We’re sure your little mummy and bat will approve.

Disney Tourist

Okay, this one might be a little confusing to the kiddos, but just tell them you are practicing for that trip later this year.

Star Wars

The force is strong with this family costume. Bonus points if you turn your dog into Yoda.

Bathtime Family Fun

Rub a dub dub, the whole fam’s in the tub! This may sound familiar if your little one is used to taking baths with you.

Circus Family

Everything about this costume just screams cuteness. We can’t decide which we like better: the cute lion or the strong little man.

The Emperor’s New Groove Costumes

The Emperor's New Groove

If you haven’t seen this gem of a movie, it’s time. Once you’ve watched it we guarantee you’ll want to outfit the whole fam for Halloween.

Lawn Flamingo and Cactus

Even if you’re not Palm Springs-bound, we think this desert-inspired duo is just the mama and baby costume to win that contest.

Dominoes

Rather than just playing bones, why not be the bones?! Your family will love seeing pictures of your family Halloween costumes if Dominoes is a staple at family gatherings.

Care Bears

Perfect for busy moms and dads, this tutorial is even no-sew, so you won't be up all night before trick-or-treating. Plus, a family in matching sweatsuits is a sight to behold.