How the Lululemon Cityverse Sneaker Stacks Up Against Other Travel Shoes

18.03.2024 - 17:33 / cntraveler.com

It was the combination of my least favorite conditions: drizzly weather mixed with uneven surfaces. But with less than two months to go in my Boston Marathon training, I set off on a run, despite not having my running shoes on me. On my feet: Lululemon’s first casual sneaker, the Cityverse.

Making its debut last month, the everyday shoe with a classic silhouette was not designed for running. Yet as I ran along the New Jersey side of the Hudson River Walkway, constantly switching between surfaces—from hard concrete and rickety bricks to wooden decks with loose boards, and even some muddy patches—I felt fast. With every step, a light but powerful rebound off the bouncy cushioning propelled me forward. Plus, while I’m usually such a wimp about walking on slippery surfaces that I clench my toes, I found myself relaxed and confident, thanks to the impressive outsole grip.

Women's sizes available: 5–12, including half sizes 
Men's sizes available: 7–14

After putting the Cityverse sneaker—and my own feet—through the ringer on that impromptu run, I had expected to finish with soaked socks and blisters galore—not to mention mud caked all over the bright white shoes. To my surprise, my socks were bone dry, my feet felt as good as they did after a regular run in my worn-in Hokas, and I only had a tiny splash of mud on the toe of one shoe, which easily wiped away.

While there’s nothing in their description about being waterproof, or even water-resistant, during this recent slew of rainy days, I’ve taken them out in everything from sprinkles to downpours. Earlier this week, I even purposely stepped into a puddle, just to see if any moisture would seep through. Nada. Every fiber on my sock was as dry as could be.

From its 3D molded support and cushioning to its high-abrasion rubber traction, this no-fuss, everyday shoe is all about keeping you comfortable on the move. The mixed material upper has a basic four quadrant pattern when viewed from above, giving it both pattern and texture, but also a streamlined, timeless look that works with most any outfit. I’ve paired the sneakers with running clothes, business casual dresses, jeans, and dress slacks. It's worked well with all of them—after all, nothing is as versatile as a white sneaker.

Shown in white peach

Previous to this, my go-to casual shoes were Vessi's waterproof sneaker. Their flexible material is helpful, as my feet tend to swell, especially on travel days with lots of walking or long plane rides. As much as I’m grateful to the brand's Weekend Sneaker for bringing comfort to my troubled feet, I’ll admit that I've never been a big fan of the style, and always felt slightly self-conscious wearing them.

My other go-to casual shoes are from French brand Veja.