I told you yesterday that one of my small wardrobe updates is to have more very casual outfits for toddler activities. That included finally getting black sneakers that could serve a dual purpose of working with jeans and non athletic apparel as well as athleisure types of outfits. I’ve been showing talking about these sneakers a bit lately but I’m finally reviewing them today.
I chose between the Nike Free RN (HERE) and the ones I’m wearing above–the Nike Tanjun (HERE).
I was especially grateful for these during a trip to Northern California last week to visit friends and their 3 toddlers. My super athletic sneakers can’t go with jeans and can only be used for athletic activities. Since they only serve one purpose I hate packing them if I’m not positive we will do something active. On our trip last week there were no plans to do active things, but I knew it’d be a possibility. I LOVED having the Nike Tanjuns because I knew that even if we didn’t do anything active I could still use them for causal outfits. They weren’t packed in vain, taking up precious suitcase real estate! And, we ended up jogging a mile to the farmer’s market one morning, and I ran in these! We were also going to hike, but rain ruined those plans.
Pros:
The Nike Tanjuns are INCREDIBLY comfortable. I used to think all my other sneakers were comfortable, and they are, but these are another level. I read someone say in a review that the soles have memory foam, which I don’t know is true, but it FEELS like it’s true! That’s how comfortable they are.
They’re also lightweight, and the mesh upper is really nice for breathability.
Cons: I got these mostly for lots of walking, strength training, spinning, and any other active things except for heavy running. I don’t know if they’re great for serious running in terms of both durability and support. Though I ran a mile in them last week I was worried that I’d get shin splints on a longer run due to possibly needing a little more arch support. Like, maybe these are TOO cushiony for me to run in? Luckily, I didn’t get shin splints and actually had zero problems. I’ll eventually try running more than a smile in them, but I’ll do so hesitantly. Lots of walking has been fine though!
Sizing: I’m size 8.5 to 9, but usually 8.5 in sneakers. The Tanjuns in 8.5 fit my feet EXACTLY, in the bad way. Like, my foot was right against the edge, and since the mesh is upper I was worried my toe would soon poke a hole through it. The 9s worked much better. If you’re unsure, I would order both sizes since Zappos has free return shipping.
Comparison of the Nike Free RN and Nike Tanjun
The Nike Free RN felt good, but slightly narrow. And they weren’t as cushiony as the Nike Tanjun, but I don’t know if there is another shoe that can beat the Tanjun’s cushion. 😀 The Nike Free RN also made my feet look a wide from the top. However, that said, ironically I think the Free RN would be better for narrower feet. Haha!
I would ABSOLUTELY recommend trying the Nike Tanjuns! They come in several different colors, and I’m considering getting them in purple. Find them all HERE.
Shop for the Look:
Sweater: H&M (exact–wearing M, similar)
Leggings: Nordstrom (exact–reviewed HERE)
Shoes: Zappos (exact)
Necklace: c/o Sela Designs (similar)
Bag: Nordstrom (similar)
Watch: c/o Daniel Wellington (exact, similar–half the price of exact)
