Oprah’s Favorite Running Shoe: Saysh Felix Runner Redefines Women’s Footwear
Discover why Oprah and top athletes love Saysh Felix Runner—where fashion, comfort, and women's empowerment shape every step.
Oprah’s 2023 Favorite Running Shoe: The Saysh Felix Runner
In the competitive world of athletic footwear, few products receive the coveted endorsement of Oprah’s Favorite Things. The Saysh Felix Runner lands on this prestigious 2023 list, redefining how female runners experience comfort, support, and style. Spearheaded by Olympian Allyson Felix, the shoe isn’t just a pinnacle in performance—it’s a powerful statement in advocacy and empowerment for women athletes everywhere.
What Sets the Saysh Felix Runner Apart?
Combining technical innovation with style, the Felix Runner introduces elements tailored specifically for the anatomy and movement of women. While most sports shoes are historically designed for men and resized for women, Felix and her team at Saysh overturn this paradigm with proprietary technologies and thoughtful craftsmanship.
- FemiformityFIT Technology: The central feature, FemiformityFIT, shapes the shoe from an entirely female perspective—wider toe box, narrower heel, and material flexibility adaptable to hormonal changes affecting foot shape and movement.
- Supercritical Lightweight Foam: Advanced foam provides plush cushioning for impact absorption, with just the right responsiveness for both running and all-day wear.
- Minimal, Durable Outsole: Flex points mirror the foot’s natural articulation, maximizing both grip and smooth transitions.
- Midfoot Lacing System: Creates custom cinch and lockdown—preventing slippage and ensuring the right tension across the arch.
- Reflective Detailing: Discrete reflective elements boost visibility and safety during early morning or evening runs.
- 3D-Molded Heel With Internal Foam Pods: Elevates the comfort and keeps the foot securely in place, blending stability and a soft feel for extended activity.
- Eco-Conscious Construction: Saysh emphasizes sustainability with recycled materials, reduced water usage, and energy-efficient manufacturing. Each pair is a step toward a greener planet.
The Story Behind Saysh and Allyson Felix
Created by Allyson Felix, the most decorated female track athlete in Olympic history, Saysh embodies more than mere footwear. The brand was born from Felix’s personal experiences, including a lack of shoe sponsorship during her final Olympic Games and her passionate advocacy for mothers and women in sport.
Felix’s vision was clear: shoes designed for women by women, prioritizing anatomical fit and holistic empowerment. “I really look at Saysh as my legacy,” Felix has stated, emphasizing her commitment to both superior product design and the elevation of female athletes’ voices.
- Advocacy for Women: Every Saysh product is a celebration of female athletes and a stand against industry norms that prioritize men’s needs over women’s.
- Motherhood and Movement: Felix’s campaign resonates especially with mothers, supporting the journey from pregnancy through everyday athletic pursuits and professional sports.
- Legacy of Empowerment: Saysh stands as a testament to resilience, equality, and the pursuit of excellence—on the track and beyond.
Key Technical Features: Engineering Excellence for Women
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| FemiformityFIT Technology | Tailors fit to waveform differences in women’s feet, such as width, arch, and responsiveness |
| Weight | 10.5 ounces — light for daily training and long runs |
| Heel-Toe Offset | 9.5mm (30mm heel / 20.5mm forefoot) |
| Performance Outsole | Minimal design, flex points for natural foot motion |
| Midsole | Supercritical foam, balancing softness and support |
| Heel Structure | One-piece, 3D-molded with internal foam pods |
| Color Options | Ebony (black), Avalanche (white), Fire (red) |
| Price | $165 |
Comparing the Felix Runner to Other Women’s Shoes
| Shoe | Designed for Women? | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Saysh Felix Runner | Yes (Female last, FemiformityFit) | Supercritical foam, molded heel, midfoot lockdown |
| Puma Women’s Trainer | Recent female-specific models | Cushioning, flexible upper |
| Lululemon Blissfeel | Female last | Cushy midsole, contoured fit |
Style and Everyday Versatility
Beyond performance, the Felix Runner distinguishes itself as a fashion statement. The shoe’s streamlined silhouette, premium stitching, and elegant logo detail position it equally for the track, the gym, and business-casual affairs.
- Fashion Forward: The swirling Saysh logo recalls luxury accessories, with subtle color pops and matching lacing for sophisticated flair.
- No Pinkwashing: Designed to exude feminine energy without relying on stereotypical colorways.
- Limited Editions: Popular colorways such as Fire (red) and Avalanche (white) pair seamlessly with active and everyday wardrobes.
Performance in Action: Real-Life Reviews
Women’s athletes and reviewers who tested the Felix Runner consistently cite three standout qualities:
- Cushion and Comfort: Reviewers praised the mold-to-foot feel, perfect for both long runs and extended wear.
- Support and Security: The tightening midfoot and molded heel keep the foot secure and balanced—even for those recovering from injury.
- Stylish Utility: Many wearers use the Felix Runner for running, walking, and all-day standing, confirming its adaptability.
“I enjoyed walking in the shoe quite a bit and even wore it to work for a 14-hour shift. It felt great for hours on end, which I credit to the supercritical foam.” — Review from Believe in the Run
Commitment to Sustainability
Unlike traditional footwear companies, Saysh integrates environmental stewardship into every pair, with processes such as:
- Use of recycled and earth-friendly materials.
- Reduced water, energy, and carbon footprint throughout manufacturing.
- Commitment to future recyclable shoes and packaging.
Choosing the Felix Runner means supporting both personal wellness and a healthier planet.
How to Care for Your Felix Runners
- Hand washing or gentle machine cycles recommended.
- Air drying yields best shape and longevity.
- Flexible upper and premium materials maintain their form after multiple washes.
Purchasing Details
- Price: $165 per pair.
- Payment Options: Installment plans available, split into three equal payments at checkout.
- Where to Buy: Available at saysh.com and select retailers.
- Shipping: Free shipping within 3–5 days for most orders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are Felix Runners suitable for all types of running?
A: Yes, the Felix Runner’s blend of cushioning and support suits everything from casual jogging to longer distance training, but for ultra-endurance competitors, some may prefer additional technical features.
Q: How is FemiformityFIT Technology different from standard shoe design?
A: Traditional shoes use a male or generic last; FemiformityFIT starts from women’s specific dimensions, addressing unique foot shape, width, arch, and dynamic movement.
Q: Is the Felix Runner available in wide or narrow widths?
A: Currently, Felix Runner models prioritize a universal female fit, with a standard width and a roomy toe box for wider feet. More width options may be released in future collections.
Q: Can I wear these shoes outside of running?
A: Absolutely. The sophisticated styling and comfort make Felix Runners suitable for walking, travel, casual work outfits, and errands.
Q: Is the Felix Runner environmentally friendly?
A: Yes. The shoe is designed using recycled and sustainable materials and processes, reflecting Saysh’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
Conclusion: Why Saysh Felix Runner Deserves Attention
The Saysh Felix Runner isn’t just another item on Oprah’s list—it’s a product forged from experience, vision, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of female athletes. Whether you seek elevated comfort, standout style, or a brand that stands for change, the Felix Runner answers the call. Allyson Felix’s legacy and the Saysh mission continue to inspire—a step ahead in footwear innovation.
References
- https://www.womensrunning.com/gear/shoes/i-tried-it-the-saysh-felix-runner/
- https://saysh.com/products/the-felix-runner-fire-womens-running-shoe
- https://believeintherun.com/shoe-reviews/saysh-the-felix-runner-review/
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workout-clothes-gear/a64920700/saysh-the-evelyn-runner-review/
- https://saysh.com/collections/the-felix-runner
- https://saysh.com/products/the-felix-runner-aka
- https://runpacers.com/collections/saysh-the-felix-runner
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