The 4 Essential Festival Shoe Styles You Need for Coachella

New Balance 9060: The ‘Fit Flexer

If you just can’t resist dressing to the nines every single day, the New Balance 9060s will fit right into your fashionista flair.

These “proudly futuristic” New Balance sneakers deliver on Y2K aesthetics beyond compare. The wider base is reminiscent of Nike Shox – very tech-y and otherworldly. The upper part is made from mesh and suede, supplying a super elevated vibe.

The white and cream white coloration is so easy to pair with most every ‘fit. They’ll match with cargo pants, vintage jeans, or even mini skirts and denim shorts.

Reviewers of the New Balance 9060 are glad they invested in this $150 shoe because it's so versatile.

One reviewer toted the 9060’s for fitting into “all aspects” of their lifestyle. Another said that the arch supports “unreal,” so though they’re more fashion-forward than other New Balance kicks, they’re still uber-comfortable for a range of activities.

New Balance 990: The Thrift Shopper

The New Balance 990s are straight-up dad sneakers to the core, so if you gravitate towards the thrift store (or all things vintage-y), you’ll find that they go swimmingly with most outfits and will stand up to long thrift trips.

While they were originally manufactured for running (and they still are), the 990s scream streetwear to me. They appear more elevated than your average athletic running shoe, thanks to the smooth pigskin and fine mesh.

The inside is fitted with a bouncy FuelCell midsole cushioning, and the shoe is available in 4 different widths. The range!

The New Balance 990s are very similar to the New Balance 993s, which is less performance-based.

New Balance 574 Core: The Weekend Warrior

Whether you're hitting the club or the farmer’s market on the weekends, you want to be comfortable (I mean, who doesn't?). The New Balance 574 Cores are made for the weekend warriors.

New Balance describes this signature shoe as “uncomplicated, rugged, durable, and comfortable.”

Though the 574s are pretty basic, they’re earned themselves icon status. You’re sure to see at least one pair when you go out.

The outer layer is made from suede and mesh materials dotted with 100% recycled polyester details.

New Balance 550: The Sneakerhead

These New Balance sneakers aren’t just black and white. They’re “sea salt” with “gray matter” and “magnet.” So yeah, if you consider yourself overly particular about your sneakers, the New Balance 550s are the shoe for you.

These were revived from the late 80’s and early 90’s then re-released full-time in 2021, and they’ve been a modern fan-favorite ever since.

The flatter soles on these sneaks mean they’re not as practical for running or walking long distances, but since they have a history with basketball, you might be able to rock ‘em on the court. More than anything, they definitely give basketball vibes, which is perfect for any streetwear ensemble.

The mixed materials and chunky approach to the classic New Balance logo give these an unmistakable air.

According to New Balance, these best fit people with an average arch height. The thick sole and cushy ankle padding work the hardest to support your feet, rather than an arched insole.

New Balance 530: The Gym-Goer

The New Balance 530s are giving Erewhon baddie. They’re giving I drink smoothies for breakfast. They’re giving I live and breathe pilates.

The stark white colorway of these sneakers reminds me of the clean girl aesthetic, and they’re so pretty, you may have a hard time getting them dirty.

New Balance Fresh Foam: The 10K Steps A Day-er

For the more athletic among us (hello, hot girl walks!), the New Balance Fresh Foam sneakers are the way to go. They’re designed especially for walking and running, so you can count on them to be comfy.

They have an extra-soft cushioning for a cozy step, and every aspect of the footbed is intended to stabilize the foot.

This shoe especially supports walkers or runners with the tendency to step heel first, a bonus co-signed by the American Podiatric Medical Association – this pair received their Seal of Acceptance.

The upper part of the shoe is made of mesh, so it’s highly breathable, even on hot days. They’re great for high arches, too!

First, most people wear their running shoes too small. Almost everyone I have had to fit for running shoes for the first time has had to go a half to a full size up. Remember:

• Running shoes do not stretch like leather shoes
• Running shoes should notneed a break in period
• Your feet do swell when you're running and walking

A good rule to follow is that you should have a finger tip’s length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This ensures your feet can swell properly, you won’t lose toenails, and you'll have less risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.

Next, there are two types of running shoes: neutral and stability shoes.

• Neutral shoes are for people who do not overpronate
• Stability shoes are for those who do overpronate.

Overpronation is when one’s arches and ankles collapse/roll inwards when standing on one leg, running, or walking. If you have low arches or flat feet, you will likely need a stability shoe as it will provide better arch support. Many people assume that if you have high arches you need a stability shoe with more arch support, but this is rarely the case. If you have a high arch and a neutral gait (no overpronation), you should let your feet and ankles do the work and not rely on a stability shoe. Luckily there are dozens of options for both types of feet, so let’s get into some of my favorites.

Best Running Shoes For Neutral Runners

Brooks Glycerin 21

The Glycerin 21 is a popular, highly-cushioned running shoe from Brooks. The Glycerin has become a fan favorite for its soft feel and unmatched bounce. Plus, being in its 21st iteration, you can feel secure knowing that the Glycerin has served runners well for years.

Best Running Shoes For Stability Runners

Asics GT 2000 12

The Asics GT 2000 version 12 is a lightweight and bouncy stability option from Asics. Many stability shoes feel heavy and clunky, but Asics has found a way to alleviate overpronation without sacrificing lightweight performance

Best Running Shoes For Trail Running

Brooks Cascadia 17

If you’re looking to hit the trails for a run, getting a shoe with better traction and grip is the best option. Trail shoes have lugs on the outsole that help with stabilizing your feet on wet rocks and slick mud. The Brooks Cascadia is a no frills, do it all shoe that will make trail miles fly by in comfort.

Best Running Shoes For A Lightweight Option

Hoka Mach 6

Whether you're doing sprints on the treadmill or have a 5k goal race in mind, a lightweight running shoe may be the best option for you. The Hoka Mach 6 is a neutral running shoe that weighs less than most shoes on the market, making it perfect if you want to pick up the pace or feel less weighed down.

Best Running Shoes For Looks

On Cloudeclipse

Although this is super subjective, I think On has some of the best looking running shoes out there. With a chunky midsole and a unique look, the On Cloudeclipse delivers on fashion and function. While this shoe may be categorized as neutral, there are stability elements, such as a plastic speedboard to add rigidity to the foam, making it a great shoe for people with all arch types.

Winter Spring Summer or Fall starring Jenna Ortega and Percy Hynes White

Wednesday stars Jenna Ortega and Percy Hynes White team up again on Winter Spring Summer or Fall. The teen romance movie sees them in high school once again — Jenna as a Harvard-bound genius and Percy as a casual, laid-back guy. When their characters meet their final year of high school, their newfound relationship changes everything. I'm a sucker for an opposites-attract romance!

Winter Spring Summer or Fall stars Jenna Ortega, Percy Hynes-White, Marisol Nichols, Adam Rodriguez, Elias Kacavas, and Evangeline Barrosse.

The Debutantes starring Dedra Robbins, Amelia Boles, and Teylar Bradley

This documentary follows the first group of Black debutantes in Canton, Ohio in ten years. In addition to providing an in-depth look at the community and the young women themselves, this movie dives into the controversial past of the ball, as well as a hopeful future.

The Debutantes stars Dedra Robbins, Amelia Boles, and Teylar Bradley.

​BRATS, directed by Andrew McCarthy, with Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe, Molly Ringwald, and Lea Thompson

If you spent your tween years obsessed with Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo's Fire, and The Breakfast Club, then this is the movie for you. Andrew McCarthy reconnects with the rest of the iconic Brat Pack from the 80s, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Molly Ringwald, and Emilio Estevez — and explores how the title affected their lives. I might have actually screamed when I found out about this Tribeca Film Festival premiere, and it is now my most-anticipated movie!

BRATS stars Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Lea Thompson, and Jon Cryer.

​Daddio starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn

Dakota Johnson is one actress I can watch time and time again, and after starting the year off with Madame Webb, she's returning to New York City for Daddio. This new movie follows a young woman, who jumps into a cab at JFK airport. What begins as a regular taxi ride turns into an unforgettable journey.

Daddio stars Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn.

​Firebrand starring Alicia Vikander and Jude Law

This Tribeca Film Festival movie takes place in 1500s England, during the Tudor era. Katherine Parr fights to stay alive as her marriage to King Henry VIII gets more dangerous everyday, and court politics and paranoia await her at every turn. You've never seen The Holiday's Jude Law quite like this, and history lovers (and anyone who's a fan of SIX on Broadway) will be all over this movie.

Firebrand stars Alicia Vikander, Jude Law, Eddie Marsan, Sam Riley, Erin Doherty, and Simon Russell Beale.

​Jazzy with Lily Gladstone

On the heels of her Oscar-nominated role in Killers of the Flower Moon, Lily Gladstone stars in Jazzy. Filmmaker Morrisa Maltz explores the ins and outs of growing up in South Dakota, and all the highs and lows that come with childhood friendship.

Jazzy stars Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux, Syriah Foohead Means, Richard Ray Whitman, Raymond Lee, and Lily Gladstone.

​Sacramento starring Michael Cera, Kristen Stewart, and Maya Erskine

BFF comedies are back thanks to Sky High's Michael Angarano! Glenn and his partner are expecting their first child, but when his friend Ricky shows up out of nowhere, Glenn's organized life takes a turn for the chaotic. Suddenly he finds himself on a roadtrip from LA to Sacramento where there are plenty of memories to be made.

Sacramento stars Michael Cera, Kristen Stewart, Michael Angarano, and Maya Erskine.

​Satisfied with Renée Elise Goldsberry

Hamilton fans rejoice! If you've had "Satisfied" stuck in your head on repeat since 2016, then this is definitely the doc for you. The movie provides an intimate view of what it looks like to balance family and career — especially when that career becomes a viral pop culture sensation.

Satisfied stars Renée Elise Goldsberry, Alexis Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, Brielle Johnson, Ariana DeBose, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.