Just Got Back From L.A., Where I Spotted These Exact Sneakers on Everyone Cool at Pilates, La La Land, and Erewhon
During the lull between Christmas and New Year's, when many New Yorkers escape to ski slopes or tropical destinations, I journeyed west to L.A. My ten-day trip was primarily spent in The Valley, reconnecting with family, sipping green juice, and embracing the active L.A. lifestyle. Naturally, as a fashion editor, I paid close attention to the activewear looks others wore while attending classes at Burn L.A. and Equinox. A consistent trend stood out among those who I thought looked cool: their footwear. A specific sneaker, the Runner by ALO, seemed to be the most popular choice.
ALO's Runner sneakers aren't new. In fact, they launched in August 2024 as the brand's first running sneakers, following its recovery style. The shoes feature a streamlined look with clean lines running from the heels to the toes. The narrow uppers consist of recycled mesh, which keeps the shoes breathable, and chunky soles that lend a modern appeal while keeping the feet protected and supported.
While the shoes are engineered with technology to deliver heel-to-toe traction and soft impact, they're less technical-looking than other running sneakers and more fashion-forward, which is why I believe everyone in L.A. is wearing them. Plus, the tonal colorways—from sand to chocolate brown and cherry red—give it a tastefully sporty yet pared-back look.
When it came to styling the shoes, there were also many throughlines. The majority of people wearing these sneakers styled them with dark-colored leggings, such as black and charcoal gray. On top? Either just a sports bra and a zip-up jacket or a tight-fitting workout tank top. And for accessories, a designer handbag and a glass water bottle. Seriously, in L.A., a glass water bottle is just as much of a flex as a chic bag.
If you're in the market for new running sneakers that are polished enough to take from your workout to a post-workout coffee with friends, whether it's at La La Land, Erewhon, or anywhere else, keep scrolling to shop ALO's Runners and discover how fashion insiders have been styling them.
How Fashion People Are Styling ALO Runner Sneakers
Shop ALO's Runner Sneakers

Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself.