KURU Footwear, known for its patented heel-hugging technology and arch support, has recently launched its latest sneaker, the KURU DASH Vanta.
This lightweight sneaker is meant to bring an athletic look and feel while delivering long-lasting relief.
Who Is It Good For?
- Walking workouts: Yes, this sneaker has all kinds of support to make those walks feel good on your feet.
- Wide feet: Yes, these sneakers do have an available Wide option
- Standing all day: Depends on your cushioning preference, but I do think this could work for those who prefer firmer sneakers.
- Everyday Wear: Yes, these sneakers can do it all
This shoe is great for those who need a bit more stability and support no matter what they are doing, whether they are running errands or heading to the gym.
KURU DASH Vanta Overview
My initial thoughts when first trying on the KURU DASH Vanta were mainly on the cushioning and arch support.
As someone who loves good cushioning in her sneakers, I felt a bit underwhelmed at how these felt underfoot.
On the other hand, I also noticed the great arch support immediately, but also wondered if my arches would appreciate it once I got moving in them.
I took these sneakers out for many long walks with my dog and to run errands, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked the arch support.
I don’t need arch insoles, and I don’t have any arch issues, so I was initially wary that the arch support may be too much for me, but it was quite the opposite. It felt very nice.
My concern over the firmness of the cushioning seems to just come down to a personal preference, because I did find these sneakers to be comfortable on my daily walks.
These sneakers are advertised as mostly a walking, gym, and lifestyle sneaker, but they also describe them as a running sneaker.
KURU DASH Vanta Specifications
- Brand: KURU
- Previous Model: None
- Usage: Walking Shoes
- Weight: 8.5 oz
- Stack Height: not published
- Heel Drop: 9mm
- Available in 4 colors
- Available in wide
- Available on KuruFootwear.com for $119
Since the KURU DASH Vanta seems more geared towards walking and lifestyle use, the four neutral colors make sense. It’s not often you see brown included in a walking sneaker, but I actually really enjoyed the grey and brown color combo!
I do find the overall look of the sneaker to be a good blend of a trainer and something you could wear every day. It’s not overly tech-y, but it has all of the basic elements you would like to see in a trainer. All while the neutral coloring allows them to be worn with anything, in or out of the gym.
Quick Take
Pros
- Secure heel
- Excellent arch support
- Roomy toe box
Cons
- Cushioning is very firm
- Tongue is short
KURU DASH Vanta Fit
Length: True to size
Width: Standard
Toe Box: Roomy
Arch: Supportive
Volume: Standard
One of the big highlights of the KURU DASH Vanta is its patented KURUSOLE heel, which is designed to hold its shape, hug your heel, and stabilize your ankles.
I personally have never worn a sneaker with any kind of slip-on technology, and I assumed I’d feel that stiffness when I wore them, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I did not even notice it on my walks.
I also felt no heel slippage, and my ankles felt secure and comfortable.
I consider myself to have a very standard foot size (not wide nor narrow), but I did find I had to lace up a little tighter on these sneakers. Luckily, the sneaker allowed me to comfortably do that without having the breathable mesh upper or laces look awkward in the process.
The toe box has plenty of space for your toes to spread out, and I found the overall fit to run true-to-size.
The tongue seemed a bit short to me, as it barely meets the top of the laces. It does have decent padding, but I would just love to see it just a smidge longer. The laces are also a bit long in length, but do not drag.
KURU DASH Vanta Feel
The KURUCLOUD+ cushioning is described as being shock-absorbing, but I found it to feel a bit stiff and flat. My steps did not feel any cushiony bounce, but they did feel solid and steady.
To offset that stiffness, my arches did feel nicely held within their Ultimate Insoles for added support. I found the arch support noticeable but subtle, offering support without going overboard.
Overall, I found the sneaker to feel very light on my feet, and my steps felt supported and comfortable.
Our team has tested a variety of walking shoes; here are ones we find most similar in this category: As much as I grew to like these a bit more as I continued to walk in them, I don’t think I will be reaching for them in the future. However, I do think if you are someone who can appreciate a firmer cushion, these could absolutely work well for you. The arch support and heel hug alone are wonderful. But for me, I prefer a more plush feeling on my steps.
Similar Shoes to the KURU DASH Vanta
Our Verdict
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