New Year, new shoes, we often post kicks for looks and not function, but today we take a different approach and highlight some shoes purely from the perspective of function. In the end however, by using these kicks as intended you will look good when you wear them and when you take them off.

New Balance 860 2

(pictured in black and yellow)

First up and fresh is the New Balance 860. The 860 is an update of a previously successful New Balance stability trainer of the same name. Premium padding, mesh upper, support and advanced heel cushioning technology along with added features for shock absorption should serve well for overall use on the varied amount of terrain you come across while getting your run on.

Asics GT-2160

Another pair that gets some love is the Asics GT-2160. This running shoe has loads of technology tucked into it to provide great stability, to allow your foot to move naturally, to enable the shoe to customize itself to your heel and also to provide you with great comfort. This comes from all the cushy proprietary padding packed into the Asics GT-2160. If it means anything to you, this Asics running shoe is recognized as one of the best by Runner’s World magazine from runners around the world. Of all their running shoes, this is the shoe Asics considers as their “go to running shoe.”

Brooks Pure Connect

The Brooks Pure Connect rounds out the New Year’s list. Brooks aimed for a blend of barefoot running and a well cushioned training shoe and from the looks of it, this Brooks running shoe got it right. The Pure Connect has a breathable open mesh upper, a split toe groove to give you a naturally connected feel to the movement and ground underneath, but with just enough tread and sole to keep you from it.