Some shoes are meant for running. Others sneak their way into your everyday life until one day you realise you’re wearing them everywhere. That’s exactly what happened when I got my hands, or rather feet, on the black lightweight running shoes from Decathlon’s Kalenji range.
I got them expecting a no-nonsense pair for park runs and treadmill days. What I didn’t expect was how easily they would transition into my casual, everyday rotation – from quick errands to coffee runs and marathon shopping sprees. They’re comfortable, clean-looking, and quietly stylish but not without their quirks.
Let’s break it down.
Design and first impressions: Comfy, minimal, and goes with everything
These shoes are a minimalist’s dream. The all-black look gives them a chic, fuss-free aesthetic, the kind that doesn’t scream workout gear. It’s the kind of pair you can throw on with leggings, joggers, jeans, or even a relaxed cotton dress and still look put-together.
The first thing I noticed was how light they felt straight out of the box. No bulky soles, no awkward fit, just a simple, streamlined silhouette. The soft mesh exterior feels smooth to touch and breathable when worn, which instantly gives you that “these won’t suffocate my feet” confidence.
What I also love is how neutral the colour is. Black may sound basic, but it’s a blessing when you’re dressing on autopilot. Be it your gym outfit or your travel look, these shoes blend in seamlessly.
Comfort level: Soft mesh that moves with you
Comfort is where these running shoes really earn their stripes. The upper mesh is soft and flexible, allowing your feet to move naturally without feeling restricted. On long walks or runs, the mesh ensures proper ventilation, so your feet don’t feel trapped, even in humid weather.
There’s decent padding along the heel and collar, which adds a layer of protection against friction. The inner cushioning feels plush enough to absorb the usual impact from running or brisk walking, but it doesn’t overdo it. There’s no “sinking” feeling instead, it’s that perfect middle ground between firm and bouncy.
Even after wearing them for hours at a stretch, they maintained their comfort level. The shoes don’t bite at the toes, and there’s just enough flexibility to bend with your natural movement, a big plus if you’re on your feet all day.
Performance test: Everyday-ready, not just run-ready
I’ve worn these for everything from morning runs, casual strolls to long mall hauls, and days filled with street shopping chaos; and they’ve held up remarkably well.
For running, the grip is stable and reassuring, even on slightly uneven paths. The cushioning distributes pressure evenly, keeping my knees and ankles from feeling sore afterward. The mesh upper keeps things breathable, and the fit stays snug without being tight.
For casual days, they easily double up as lifestyle sneakers. The comfort stays consistent, even when you’re walking on concrete for hours. Unlike many performance shoes that start to feel heavy after long hours, these maintain their lightweight feel throughout the day.
The sole story: Supportive but on the stiffer side
Now let’s talk about the one area that made me pause, the sole. It’s sturdy and well-constructed, but it does lean toward the stiffer side. While that gives a sense of durability and stability, it can also feel a bit rigid when you’re expecting a softer, more flexible bounce.
The weight of the sole is slightly more noticeable than you’d expect in a “lightweight” running shoe. That said, it provides great traction and keeps your stride steady, especially during workouts or long walks. See it as a dependable travel partner, not feather-light, but solid and built to last.
If you’re used to ultra-cushioned shoes, this might take a little getting used to. But once you’ve broken them in, the firmness starts to feel more like supportive stability rather than stiffness.
Fit and flexibility: Moves with you, not against you
The fit is where these shoes win major brownie points. They feel snug without being tight, which makes them adaptable to different foot shapes. The flexible mesh works with your movement rather than against it, a crucial detail when you’re walking long distances or shifting between surfaces.
The flexibility also makes these easy to slip on and off, ideal for days when you’re constantly on the move. And since they hold their shape well, they don’t start sagging or stretching out even after multiple wears.
The laces are standard but reliable, they stay put without constantly untying themselves.
Style versatility: From track to town
One of the biggest reasons these shoes have become a wardrobe staple for is how they work with different outfits. The black mesh gives them a modern, almost street-style aesthetic that blends in with both sporty and casual looks.
You can wear them with your workout gear in the morning and keep them on through the rest of the day without feeling like you’re in gym shoes. They work just as well with a hoodie and joggers as they do with a denim jacket and leggings. Comfortable enough for airport sprints, chic enough for sightseeing, and neutral enough to go with multiple outfits.
Durability and everyday use
After a month of use, the shoes have held up beautifully. The mesh hasn’t frayed, the sole hasn’t lost its grip, and the inner cushioning hasn’t flattened out. The construction feels solid; no loose threads, no flimsy stitching.
While the stiff sole may not appeal to every runner, it seems like a small trade-off for the durability and structure these offer. They’re designed to take a beating and still look good.
Verdict: Everyday comfort with a stylish edge
The Decathlon Kalenji black lightweight running shoes strike a balance between comfort, versatility, and durability. They are cushioned enough for workouts, stylish enough for casual wear, and strong enough to handle daily mileage.
Yes, the sole could be softer, but what they lack in flexibility, they make up for in support and sturdiness. If you want a shoe that feels comfortable and dependable, and doesn’t scream for attention, this is it.
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- Are the Decathlon Kalenji women’s running shoes comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes! The soft mesh upper and cushioned insole make them super comfortable for long hours — whether you’re running, walking, or shopping. They stay breathable and supportive throughout the day without feeling tight or heavy.
- Can these shoes be styled beyond workouts?
Yes, that’s one of their biggest perks! The all-black design is sleek and neutral enough to pair with jeans, joggers, or even casual dresses. They transition seamlessly from workout wear to everyday style.
- Is the sole too stiff for regular wear?
The sole is slightly on the firmer side, which gives it durability and stability. It might feel a bit rigid at first, but once broken in, it provides steady support without compromising comfort.
- Do these shoes work well for beginners or casual runners?
Absolutely. They’re lightweight, easy to slip on, and offer good grip and cushioning — perfect for new runners or anyone who just wants a comfortable, no-fuss pair for light workouts or daily use.
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