In contrast, the best running shoes will be those that fit you best and suit your training needs. However, when you shop for running shoes online or in a local store, the choices can be overwhelming.
Are you in need of a neutral or support shoe? For your first half-marathon, should you choose Brooks shoes or Nike shoes like your running partner? Here are the best men’s and women’s running shoes to buy right now to help you sort through the confusion and find the right shoe for your needs.
Top 10 Bestseller Running Shoes
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Top 10 Best Running Shoes Reviews
Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
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Choosing the best Nike running shoes can be tricky if you’re a fan of the Swoosh. While we love the Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% for race day, not every runner wants to race, which is why we chose the Pegasus 36.
Although the Nike Invincible Run is also a great everyday shoe, when it comes down to it, the Pegasus is just more versatile. There is a good amount of React foam in the midsole for a lightweight, snappy feel underfoot, without being too springy and leaving you feeling unstable. Pegasus is a workhorse – you can wear it for a marathon, your first 5K, and everything in between.
A shoe that is on its 38th iteration must be doing something right, and you’re buying reliability with the Pegasus. The 10mm drop means you won’t feel the ground too much, but at the same time, you won’t feel like you’re running on platforms. Its cushioned tongue won’t cause hot spots or blisters, and its forefoot is wide and high, so your toes won’t rub together.
Some runners might find the Pegasus a little ‘meh’ for tempo sessions and old-school Pegasus fans won’t like the introduction of React foam within the shoe, but if you don’t fall into either category, it’s worth the investment.
Pros
- A great all-rounder
- Durable
- Available in a number of different colorways
Cons
- Not the most responsive shoe
HOKA ONE ONE Mens Rincon 3 Synthetic Textile Trainers
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It goes without saying that you don’t need multiple pairs of running shoes to be a runner. Many people buy multiple pairs of running shoes for different sessions, but if you’re new to running or are on a budget, you can still build fitness and train for races with just one pair. Additionally, if you’re looking for that one pair, the Hoka One One Rincon 3 is a brilliant shoe to invest in.
A truly versatile shoe, the Rincon 3 is lightweight enough for fast sessions, while its EVA midsole provides enough cushioning for long runs. In its third iteration, the Rincon is lighter and more breathable than previous versions, while still using the rocker-geometry for a faster, springier toe-off. It’s also a lot more affordable than other running shoes on this list at $115.
Our only complaint is that the EVA midsole isn’t the plushest, and if you’re looking for that classic Hoka cushion, you might find it a little hard. Nevertheless, if you’re searching for an everyday running shoe that’s a bit snappier than say, the Nike Pegasus or Ghost 14, this is a great option.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- A brilliant all-rounder, best suited for runners who only want one pair of shoes
- A fast, snappy shoe
Cons
- The firmness of the Rincon 3 won’t be for everyone
Brooks Men’s Glycerin 19 Neutral Running Shoe
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Glycerins are Brooks’ ‘softest shoe’, and they are among the most popular running shoes around. This shoe features Brooks’ DNA LOFT cushioning, which is designed to be soft and plush underfoot, and the 19th iteration contains more foam than ever before. A popular choice for beginners and marathon runners alike, this shoe is extremely comfortable.
Despite all this talk of soft foam, the Glycerin is still snappy when needed and can pick up the pace if you so desire. Designed primarily for comfort, this shoe is a great all-arounder. In addition to being available in many different colorways, the Glycerin also looks good, thus its appeal to runners of all ages and abilities.
The Glycerin isn’t the quickest or lightest shoe on this list, so if you’re looking to run a personal best, you might want a more responsive shoe. However, if your goal is to get going or get around the course, it would be hard to find a more comfortable shoe to do so.
Pros
- A super-plush cushioned running shoe
- The 19 has more foam than previous iterations
Cons
- Not a very fast shoe
Brooks Ghost 14 Men’s Neutral Running Shoe
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There’s a long-standing myth in the shoe world that men’s and women’s running shoes are just different colors. In spite of the differences that may not be obvious to the naked eye, women’s shoes are made to fit a woman’s foot, which is typically smaller and narrower. Taking Brooks as an example, the standard size for women is a B width, whereas the standard for men is a D width.
Ghost 14 is a brilliant shoe for all genders, but we’ve given it the top spot for women since its fitting is extremely comfortable, even on testers with higher arches. Brooks has a reputation for plush and comfortable running shoes, and the Ghost 14 is no exception. Ghost 14 is also available in narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide widths, so finding the perfect fit is made easier.
The Ghost 14 also uses Brooks’ ‘DNA LOFT’ cushioning for a plush underfoot feel, but the Ghost is firmer, making it better suited to shorter, faster runs than the Glycerin 19. Ghost is also $20 cheaper than Glycerin, making it slightly more affordable.
Pros
- Brooks’ first carbon-neutral shoe
- Available in three different shoe widths
- Cheaper and snappier than the Glycerin
Cons
- Faster runners might struggle with this shoe
ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoes
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With the Asics Gel Kayano, you can’t go wrong if you’re looking for a classic stability shoe. The Gel Kayano is designed for overpronators (runners whose feet collapse inwards when they run), utilizing a stiff medial post on the inside of the shoe to provide stability, as well as extra cushioning in the midsole to provide more arch support.
In the 28th version of the Kayano, Asics has added gender-specific structural differences for more personalized support, as well as FF blast mid foam for a smoother, snappier toe-off. As opposed to previous versions of the Kayano which were heavy and cumbersome, this is a brilliantly responsive shoe for all distances.
There’s no doubt that not every runner will need structured support in their shoe, so it’s a good idea to get your gait professionally checked at a running shop before buying. For runners who pronate only slightly, or need a little extra stability in the final miles of a race, Asics also makes a ‘lite’ version of the Kayano.
Pros
- Offers traditional support for overpronators
- Very durable
Cons
- Can be tight across the midfoot
Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 21 Running Shoe
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Adidas’s first Ultraboost shoe was released in February 2015, and the running community went wild over the bouncy ‘Boost’ foam. Six years later, the Adidas Ultraboost is still one of its most popular running shoes, and it’s easy to see why: it’s a fantastically comfortable shoe that looks great and feels great.
As part of the Ultraboost 21, Adidas added six percent more Boost as well as a plastic insert underneath the midsole called ‘Linear Energy Push,’ designed to help you pick up the pace when you’re in need.
The upper of the bootie is almost sock-like, but as it sits over all that foam, it is designed to cradle and secure the foot. On long, easy runs as well as faster tempo runs, the Ultraboost 21 feels as plush and comfortable underfoot. Also, it looks good enough to wear at the office or out with friends, which is a big selling point.
This is one of the heavier shoes on this list, but unless you’re going for the podium, it shouldn’t bother most runners.
Pros
- Sock-like fit keeps the foot secure in the shoe
- Extremely versatile
Cons
- A heavy running shoe
Nike mens Running Shoes
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On race day, there is no better shoe than the Nike Vaporfly Next% 2. Almost every major road marathon has this shoe – it is one of the most popular racing shoes around, and it’s easy to see why. It features ZoomX foam, Nike’s lightest and most responsive midsole, as well as a full-length carbon fiber plate that helps with toe-off speed. It feels fast, is lightweight, and fits true to size.
The disadvantage here, of course, is the price – these shoes are definitely an investment that may not last very long. Nike doesn’t give an exact figure, but as a race day shoe, it’s commonly believed you won’t get a lot of mileage out of them, so we wouldn’t recommend them for your training miles. However, if you’re looking for a PR and can afford them, you won’t be disappointed.
Pros
- Incredible energy return
- Lightweight and comfortable for race day
Cons
- Unisex sizing
Brooks Men’s Catamount Running Shoe
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The Brooks Catamount trail shoe isn’t the cheapest on the market, but it’s a game-changer when it comes to trail running shoes. In contrast to traditional, stiffer trail shoes, the Catamount is cushioned, responsive, and fast, so it’s perfect for runners who want to break their PBs on hard terrain.
Brooks first introduced the Catamount in January 2022 when it announced the development of its ‘DNA Flash’ midsole foam, infused with nitrogen for a lightweight feel and high energy return. It’s reserved for their faster shoes, which makes it an exciting choice for a trail shoe. Brooks has also added a Ballistic Rock Shield between the midsole and outsole of the Catamount to protect the foot from sharp rocks on the trail.
Hard-core trail runners may want to keep browsing, as the Catamount can get a little slippy on really technical terrain, so they don’t want to use it on loose gravel paths or light mud. Nevertheless, the Catamount is a great option for road-to-trail runs or races.
Pros
- Super speedy and snappy thanks to DNA Flash midsole
- Breathable upper
Cons
- The outsole isn’t grippy enough for all surfaces
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe
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As a result of its more affordable price and brilliant versatility for runners of all abilities, the 1080 v11 edged out the FuelCell RC Elite V2 at the top of the list of best New Balance running shoes. Although this neutral, cushioned running shoe is designed for road running, it also looks good enough to wear to the gym or out to brunch (although you should be aware that this might shorten the life of your running shoes).
Running in Fresh foam will not leave you feeling bogged down, as it is extremely responsive, so it’s a great choice for runners who like a cushioned underfoot. Although the shoe’s sole has a distinct rocker feel to it, which allows for a smoother, faster toe-off, it still feels remarkably secure around corners, unlike other shoes on the market.
In the 1080 v11, New Balance made some small, but important improvements to the fit of the shoe, mostly around the upper, which is now more comfortable for runners with wider feet. The New Balance brand comes up small compared to other running shoe brands, so you’ll want to check the size guide before buying online.
Pros
- Extremely versatile, cushioned road running shoe
- Breathable upper
Cons
- Can still feel narrow around the toe box for runners with wider feet
ON Running Mens Cloudstratus Textile Synthetic Trainers
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For some runners, On running shoes have always been a little too firm. Introducing the Cloudstratus, which offers runners ‘maximum cushioning’ with On style. Instead of thick wedges of foam, On has developed its CloudTec technology, which cushions the foot from horizontal and vertical forces on the run and makes you feel as though you are ‘running on clouds’.
On has added two Cloud layers to the Cloudstratus to add extra cushioning when running on pavement. Its high energy return makes it popular with long-distance runners who want speed and comfort. Upon extending the double-layered midsole along the entire length of the shoe, On has made the Cloudstaratus a more cushioned version.
This shoe isn’t for everyone, but for runners who want a speedy long-distance shoe, it’s a good choice. The CloudTec technology makes the shoe ideal for heavier runners or those who prefer a cushioned running shoe.
Pros
- On’s most cushioned shoe yet
- A very comfortable upper
Cons
- Still a firm ride that won’t suit all runners
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What to Consider When Choose Running Shoes
There are a few different things to consider when choosing the best pair of running shoes. One thing to consider is your running style. A good idea before buying shoes is to go to a running store and have your gait evaluated. In order to prevent injury, you might want to consider stability shoes if you overpronate drastically.
Second, where you intend to run. For most of your running, you’ll need a road shoe designed to handle the impact of pounding pavement. In order to venture out in the trails, you’ll need a trail shoe with a grippy outsole on rocky, muddy and wet surfaces. When you’re trying to break your personal best, you’re likely to want a shoe that will have features designed to improve your performance, such as carbon fibre plates and snappy, reactive midsoles.
Last but not least, how often you run. When shopping for running shoes, a marathon runner will have different requirements than a runner who runs the occasional 5K. Even if running is not your thing, but just something you do in the gym from time to time, you’ll probably want a more affordable shoe.
How We Test The Best Running Shoes
Our lives revolve around them! Finding the right shoes for your feet and running style is a personal choice, but we have tested the most popular shoes on the market for the past few years, so we know what to look for.
Before making a decision about shoes, we typically run at least 20 miles in them. This is a test of how well the shoe performs on different surfaces, as well as how it copes with different workouts – some shoes may be great for long runs, but will feel heavy for speed workouts. Aside from the size and fit, we also consider any special features, such as carbon fiber plates or ultra-lightweight midsole foams.
Conclusion
Running barefoot is gaining popularity among athletes who believe modern running shoes are harmful to their feet. Truth be told, high stack, carbon plate-enhanced running shoes do force runners to run in an unconventional manner, which might not be the best for at least a portion of runners.
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