Veja Condor 3
Lacing system: Standard laces | Heel drop: 8 millimeters | Size range: 5 to 14.5 | Colors: 3 colors
Best for:
- Beginners who want a supportive, durable shoe for shorter runs
- Those who prefer a thicker outsole
Skip if:
- You want something with a lighter feel
- You want more color options
The Design
The Veja Condor 3’s design improves upon the brand’s previous running shoe, which was released in 2020. The uppers are made from engineered mesh and have a minimalist design with the classic “v” imprinted on both sides. There are three colorways to choose from: White Black, Black Calcaire and Areia White Gradient, which has vibrant pops of fuchsia, orange and cobalt. I opted for the Black Calcaire as I tend to gravitate toward neutral colors that pair well with various workout outfits. The Condor 3 has thinner, lighter laces made from recycled polyester with scalloped edges. I’ve never worn shoes with these types of laces, but to my surprise, I didn’t experience any issues with them coming untied during runs and workouts.
The uppers are made from engineered mesh and have a minimalist design.
As I tested these sneakers, I noted how my feet felt before and after running. My feet felt incredibly comfortable, and I noticed no overheating, even when running in hot, humid New York City weather. The tongue of the shoe also stays in place better than other athletic sneakers I’ve used in the past, which is a small detail that I appreciate.
The Cushioning
After slipping these on for a quick run, I was impressed with how comfortable and cushioned the Condor 3 felt. The midsole is crafted from sugar cane and Amazonian rubber, which is a more sustainable alternative to using PVC and still provides bouncy comfort. Running shoes have more cushioning than training shoes (especially in the midsole) to absorb the shock of hitting the ground. My stride felt energetic and smooth during my first run, and it had some extra bounce. The shoes performed well on pavement, the track and uneven sidewalks throughout the city, and I didn’t experience any soreness, discomfort or blisters during testing. The outsole is crafted from a blend of Amazonian rubber, mineral silica and other materials, although it doesn’t feel drastically different from other running shoes.
The Condor 3’s midsole is crafted from sugar cane and Amazonian rubber.
The Weight
The size 9 I ordered weighs 10 ounces, which is heavier than other popular running shoes like the Brooks Ghost 16 and Asics GT-2000 12. I’m a new runner who is clocking short distances, so this wasn’t a problem for me, but it’s worth noting that these shoes are probably best suited for relaxed runs under 10 miles, as the added weight might be more challenging during long, competitive races. However, I expect the thicker heel and outsole to hold up well over time and provide plenty of support.
Final Thoughts
After running in these sneakers for several weeks, I was impressed with the support, cushion and durability. Although the Condor 3 is a heavier, chunkier shoe, it’s easy to run in and my stride felt energetic on short runs. Overall, it’s an excellent lifestyle-running shoe that performs best on daily runs and walks, and I expect my pair to last for a long time. The design is also versatile enough to wear with jeans or slacks. However, if you’re a long-distance runner who wants a lightweight trainer, you might want to consider another options—such as those in our tested review of the best running shoes for women.
