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- Weight: 287g (Size 42 EU)
- Stack height: 37mm (heel), 29mm (forefoot)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
- Type: Road/neutral
- Type of run/runner: Beginners or runners looking for a cushioned trainer for easy runs, that can also double up for lifestyle purposes.
The shoe
Best known for producing good-looking lifestyle trainers using sustainable materials and ethical processes, Veja might not be the first brand you think of when it comes to running shoes, but it's certainly on a mission to change that. It's worth noting that — unlike a lot of brands on the market — Veja isn't greenwashing when it comes to its sustainable practices, either. It's products are produced in high-standard factories in Brazil and Portugal, using materials sourced only from Brazil and Peru. Workers are also ensured good living standards and fair pay, as well as a host of other employee benefits.
Refreshingly, Veja isn't tied to yearly updates, either. The Condor 3 first launched in 2019, and now, five years later, the third iteration has only just hit the shelves.
The problem is, producing a sustainable running shoe is no mean feat. In fact, I’ll hold my hands up and admit I’ve been yet to test a running shoe that strikes the right balance between environmental responsibility and performance. Even the Condor 2 fell flat. So, how does the Veja Condor 3 fair? Here's what you need to know.
How does the Veja Condor 3 fit?
As expected (this is Veja, after all), the Condor 3 is a seriously good-looking shoe — minimalist, with some classy flare. I've had several friends stop and ask, 'Ooh, what are they?' when they've walked past the shoes in my front porch, and that's not a regular occurance.
I got the Condor 3 in my regular running shoe size (UK 8.5) and they fit true to size, with enough wiggle room in the toebox. The engineered mesh upper, made from 100% recycled Polyster with TPU panels, ensures a secure foot-wrap and a heel support insert (made from 100% ricinus oil) means there's no heel slippage or irritation.
The laces are lighter and thinner than on the Condor 2 (also 100% recycled polyester) and the sort you might find in a top-end racing shoe. As a result, I've not had any issue with them coming undone on the run, nor does the gusseted tongue (with an integrated bootie) move or rub.
What's the Veja Condor 3 like to run in?
So far, we've got an attractive shoe that fits well. But the real test comes down to performance.
The Condor's midsole is made from 43% sugar cane-based EVA, with 27% Amazonian rubber. And I have to say, I was surprised by how soft and comfortable it felt. Until now, most of the eco-foams I've tested have lacked cushioning, coming up too firm and missing any sense of liveliness (looking at you, Allbirds Tree Flyer 2). Don't get me wrong, the Condor 3 isn't overly plush, but I certainly didn't have that initial 'Oh, that's firm' reaction I expected when I set off on my run.
The ride is pleasantly smooth, too, especially given that this is undoubtably a heavy shoe, and it doesn't feel too cumbersome either. It's definitely most at home on relaxed, slow runs, though, as anything over easy pace feels harder work. You'll also want to watch your load — I wore these for an easy 5K commute wearing a moderately heavy backpack and found things more challenging than I expected.
The outsole is made from 27% Amazonian rubber and didn't feel any more or less grippy than your average running shoe, even in wet weather.
In many ways, I'd say the Condor 3 is an excellent lifestyle running shoe — the type that joins the likes of the Lululemon Blissfeel 2 and Tracksmith Eliot in being something that's comfortable and supportive for easy running, but can easily pair with trousers or jeans for everyday (on even office) wear. In fact, I'd go as far to say it's the best running/lifestyle shoe of the bunch.
RW Verdict
The Condor 3 feels like a big step forward in sustainable running. Soft and comfortable underfoot, it manages to find the right balance between boasting eco-credentials and performance. Sure, for an everyday trainer, £160 might feel a little steep. But when you consider the materials and Veja's ethnical practices, I'd say it's a fair ask.
There's no getting away from the fact that the Condor is a lot of shoe. But Veja isn't marketing this as a performance shoe, nor even a versatile shoe for every kind of run. This is a trainer very much at home on easy miles or longer plods. If you're looking to shop more consciously — and have the means to do so — the Condor 3 is a viable green option.
