By Joy at the Southern Schoolhouse
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Walking and standing on the school’s tile floor and putting style over comfort, led to knee and hip pain. Wearing shoes with no support had to be discarded as I switched my focus to supportive shoes. I invest in my shoes because it invests in my body. When I first put on my On Cloud Monsters, I could not believe the difference they made. I was actually able to run with no knee pain. I have had three past knee surgeries and thought running was a thing of the past. Although a higher price tag, I believe in the product and would highly recommend buying a pair. The following shoes have been tested by myself or my family. They are my top choices for teacher comfort sneakers and super cute too.
On Cloud Monster

The On Cloud Monster is a maximalist running shoe designed for comfort and performance. Its most notable feature is the oversized CloudTec® cushioning system, composed of large, visible pods in the midsole, which provides a highly cushioned and responsive ride. This cushioning, combined with On’s signature Speedboard technology, creates a smooth heel-to-toe transition and enhances energy return. While offering a plush feel, the Cloudmonster maintains a degree of firmness, making it suitable for a variety of paces and distances, from everyday runs to longer efforts. Its distinctive, futuristic aesthetic, driven by the prominent CloudTec® elements, sets it apart from traditional running shoes. Though a premium-priced option, the Cloudmonster’s blend of comfort, performance, and unique design makes it a popular choice for runners seeking a highly cushioned and energetic ride.
New Balance 327’s

The New Balance 327 is a stylish and versatile sneaker that draws inspiration from the brand’s 1970s running shoe archives. It features a unique design with an oversized “N” logo, a sleek silhouette, and a distinctive studded rubber outsole that extends up the heel. The 327 combines retro aesthetics with modern elements, making it a popular choice for both casual wear and athletic activities. Its lightweight construction and comfortable fit make it suitable for everyday use, while its eye-catching design adds a touch of retro flair to any outfit.
HOKA Bondi 8 Sneakers

The HOKA Bondi 8 is a max-cushion road running shoe designed for ultimate comfort and long distances. It features a thick layer of soft, responsive foam in the midsole, providing exceptional impact absorption and a plush ride. This generous cushioning, combined with HOKA’s signature Meta-Rocker technology, promotes a smooth, rolling heel-to-toe transition. While prioritizing comfort, the Bondi 8 maintains a surprising level of responsiveness, making it suitable for a variety of paces. Its engineered mesh upper offers breathability and a comfortable fit, while the extended heel adds stability. The Bondi 8 is a popular choice for runners seeking maximum cushioning for long runs, recovery runs, or those who prefer a softer, more forgiving ride.
On Cloud Eclipse

The On Cloud Eclipse is a max-cushion running shoe designed for ultimate comfort and long distances. It boasts On’s thickest-ever CloudTec® cushioning, utilizing large, interconnected pods for a plush and protective ride. This generous cushioning, combined with a smooth, sock-like upper, prioritizes comfort for extended efforts. While focused on comfort, the Cloud Eclipse still incorporates On’s Speed-board technology to maintain a responsive feel and efficient energy return, preventing the shoe from feeling overly sluggish. Its design is more streamlined and less visually striking than some of On’s other models, emphasizing its focus on performance and comfort over bold aesthetics. The Cloud Eclipse is ideal for runners seeking maximum cushioning for long runs, recovery runs, or those who simply prefer a softer underfoot feel.