The 8 Best Road Running Shoes of 2024

Best Overall Men's Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4

The Asics Novablast 4 remains our favorite do-it-all training shoe — the all-around favorite running shoe of our expert men's running shoe testers. It was the most consistent top-performing shoe across the range of the rating metrics that we evaluated. It scores well in almost everything we consider important in a running shoe purchase decision and it performs well on every surface we ran on and at nearly every pace. To top it off, this is one of the more affordable shoes we've tested, making it an even better choice in our eyes. Nathaniel, our lead tester for men's road shoes, was confident and comfortable in the Novablast on “both easy runs and at 5K pace.” It does err on the side of comfort rather than speed, but if we could only have one shoe for every run, this would be it.

Measured Heel Stack Height	43 mm
Measured Weight i	9.76 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	7 mm
Plate Type	None
Rocker Angle	22.5 deg

The one thing we loved most about the Novablast is its cushioning and landing comfort. Our running experts describe it as having “a nicely cushioned landing” that feels comfortable but not too squishy. The Novablast has a massive chunk of foam underfoot (43 mm in the heel, 36 mm in the forefoot), but don't let that fool you into thinking it's lazy. We found it to be responsive and bouncy, making it extremely versatile; picking up the pace is easy in this shoe, thanks to its unique geometry. It has a clever rocker geometry that helps it feels almost like a trampoline in its landing comfort and forward momentum. If you're looking specifically to speed train, you might prefer the added propulsion of the nylon plate in the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, though it's a more expensive trainer. If you prefer to vary your paces, though, the FF Blast + Eco foam in the Novablast feels great when taking it easy — and doesn't feel like it's weighing our feet down.

The upper of the Novablast 4 is stretchy and accommodating, with a fit that we found works well on a variety of shapes and volumes of feet. This shoe is exceptionally versatile — it's an all-around great running shoe for training long or short distances, hard and easy paces. The Novablast really is a shoe that can do it all. It strikes a rare combination of high-scoring features, and we think the “balance between responsiveness and cushioning is near-perfect for a daily trainer.” If you need a little extra support from your running shoe, however, we recommend checking out the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 — or its predecessor — that isn't as responsive but offers a higher level of stability while still being fairly versatile. We're big fans that a shoe like the Novablast, with its impressively high level of all-around performance, can be such a great value as well — most shoes that scored near it cost $20-120 more. It's an even better value when considering it could easily keep you from buying multiple running shoes for multiple surfaces and applications.

All that said, if you often find yourself on wet roads, this no-lug model might not be your shoe. We found the grip lacking on wet or slick surfaces — our only complaint about the Novablast. A better shoe for that kind of situation is the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, which we found to have excellent grip on all types of surfaces, even though it isn't as comfortable as the Novablast. Still, this didn't stop us from going for winter runs in Montana, happily wearing the Novablast. At the end of the day, if you're after a single shoe that can do a bit of everything or are just looking for a solid choice for use as a daily trainer, we truly can't recommend the Novablast 4 enough.

Read more: Men's Asics Novablast 4 review

Best Overall Women's Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4 - Women's

We could provide a laundry list of reasons why the Asics Novablast 4 is being honored as the best all-around running shoe, but we will sum it up in one word for brevity's sake: consistency. Lead tester Ally Arcuri notes that “the Novablast is a lightweight workhorse of a shoe that is suitable for nearly all running occasions.” Want to run a marathon and spend hours slow logging mileage on city streets? The Novablast has you covered. Want to ratchet up your speed and see how quickly you can get your legs moving? The Novablast is full of delightful, trampoline-inspired energy return.

Measured Heel Stack Height	38 mm
Measured Weight i	7.36 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	8 mm
Plate Type	None
Rocker Angle	22.0 deg

The comfort of the Novablast 4 makes it suitable for long-distance efforts, while its balanced responsiveness allows it to be a do-it-all piece of gear. We love this shoe so much because of the underfoot combination of these two elements. In comparison with other running shoes, the Novablast earned one of the highest scores in comfort, placing it in line with some of the more maximally-minded shoes, but it rides more like a traditional running shoe. Only another Asics model — the Gel Kayano 31 scored as highly in the landing comfort metric, but the Novablast is a more all-around versatile shoe, while the Kayano is built for stability and traction. With a 38 mm stack in the heel and a 30 mm stack in the forefoot, the Novablast provides a lot of cushion between you and the pavement without feeling overdone. One tester described it in poetic terms, “…the Novablast 4 offers a luxurious edge to your endurance efforts.” The configuration and specified placement of the cushioning allows this shoe to be comfortable and peppy, hence our recommendation if you are looking for a well-balanced pair of kicks.

It is not often that we find a shoe that can be considered nearly universal in its comfort and application, but the updated Novablast hits the mark. While no shoe is going to be perfect for every runner in every situation, the Novablast is versatile enough for runners of all kinds to consider. The only other shoe we tested that matches this level of all-around versatility is the Hoka Mach 6 — but the Novablast outperforms the Mach in all regards except for weight, as the Mach 6 weighs just 6.27 ounces per shoe and the Novablast hits a more average weight of 7.36 ounces (in women's size 6.5). Specifically, we recommend the reconfigured Novablast to runners who are only looking to have one shoe in their collection. The Novablast is comfortable enough to carry you through your long, slow runs but doesn't skimp on responsiveness either. Ally specifically notes that it provides an “energizing push-off that efficiently propels you forward” and gives a boosted feeling to your faster workouts. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options and specifications available on the market today. If you want a single running shoe that will reliably get you through the long and slow runs, speedy track workouts, and that marathon you've had your eye on, this is the shoe we recommend.

Like many road-specific running shoes, the Novablast lacks the traction necessary for security on wet or slick surfaces. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 has better grip, though not to the extent that a grippy trail running shoe would. Occasional jaunts in damp weather are totally doable in the Novablast, but if your running takes you across slick surfaces on the regular, a crossover trail shoe like the Hoka Torrent 3 might be a better match for you. But for most runners, and most runs, Ally thinks it's hard to go wrong with the Novablast 4, saying that “rookie runners, veterans, fitness junkies, and ultra-distance enthusiasts will all find something to love about this innovative running kick.” It is the shoe we reach for again and again for its versatility, comfort, and responsiveness in a variety of workouts.

Read more: Women's Asics Novablast 4 review

Best Value in Men's Running Shoes

Puma Velocity Nitro 3

In the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, Puma strikes a good balance of comfort, responsiveness, and versatility and slaps a wallet-friendly price tag on the whole package, making it our favorite budget-friendly pair to wear for men's road shoes. It has a respectable measured stack height of 38 mm and an 11 mm drop, and the midsole features lightweight NITRO foam that we love. The upper has been improved over the last version and is now a bit more breathable. While not the best in any specific metric — its higher weight and lack of stability knocked it down a few points in our testing — we still find this to be a do-it-all kind of shoe that we enjoy running in.

Measured Heel Stack Height	38 mm
Measured Weight i	10.07 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	11 mm
Plate Type	None
Rocker Angle	18.0 deg

We love the stack composition that Puma put together in this shoe, from insole to out, with the grippy rubber, which is a refreshing surprise for a road shoe. The NITRO foam, which makes up the majority of the underfoot cushion in the Velocity Nitro 3, offers a satisfying bounce back after each footfall, with our lead tester Nathaniel Bailey describing it as having “a smooth landing, excellent impact mitigation, and good energy return.” We also appreciate the slight increase in stack height over the last version, which gives our joints some well-deserved cushion without feeling too sluggish. This is an above-average weight model, though, at 10.07 ounces per shoe (size 10.5). This extra weight includes both more cushioning and sticky PumaGrip rubber on the outsole, which tractions impressively well on a variety of slick surfaces — giving us confidence on wet, icy roads and trails with loose gravel. If saving some weight is important, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 uses a similar traction-oriented compound (PumaGrip ATR) and weighs 9.58 ounces per shoe.

The Velocity is a great all-around model. It has a thoughtful balance of cushion, energy return, and features, giving it the potential to fit right into most runners' shoe rotations as well as being a standalone trainer. If you aren't the type to splurge on footwear, it is versatile enough to be the only shoe you run in, taking you through a variety of training scenarios. It is great for tempo runs and fast-paced track workouts, though the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 offers a bit more responsiveness (using EnergyRods 2.0) at high speeds in an otherwise fairly comparable shoe. The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 also offers a bit more responsiveness with its carbon plates, though it isn't as comfortable. Nathaniel notes that the NITRO foam of the Velocity does a lot to “keep our legs fresh over 90+ minute efforts — we don't hesitate to pull these on for the long run.” It manages to pull all of this off without draining your bank account. If you are looking for a jack-of-all-trades shoe, this may be a good choice.

Although it scores above average in most metrics, the downside of versatility is that it doesn't excel in any one area. This is not a specialty shoe. It doesn't have the plush cushion of a maximalist model, it is not a low-slung stability shoe, and it doesn't have the snappy rebound of a race-oriented shoe. So, if you are looking to build out your rotation with condition-specific models, you may not find a niche for the Velocity Nitro 3 in your closet. However, none of these details are dealbreakers in our opinion — just things to consider. For not a ton more money (depending on how closely you watch Puma's sales), the Asics Novablast 4 is another excellent all-around one-stop shop of a shoe that our men's running team loves. At the end of the day, it's hard to go wrong with a shoe like the Velocity Nitro 3. If you are a runner on a budget who wants one model to get through whatever is on the training schedule for that day, our testing team says this budget-friendly model “will handle any run you throw at it.”

Read more: Men's Puma Velocity Nitro 3 review

Best Value in Women's Running Shoes

Saucony Kinvara 15 - Women's

The Saucony Kinvara 15 is an ultra-lightweight shoe that is available for a slightly more digestible price tag than many other running shoes on the market today, which is why it earned our top recommendations for runners on a budget — again. Our male testers preferred the speed-forward Puma Velocity Nitro 3 as their budget pick, though the Kinvara 15 scored decently in their lineup, as well. Impressively, of our test fleet, only two racing shoes — the Nike Vaporfly 3 and Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris — were lighter, and not by much. Both these racing shoes lack the outstanding versatility of the Kinvara, and have hefty, hefty price tags attached to them. The Kinvara's slightly soft PWRRUN+ foam provides peppy energy return with a bit of outsole flexibility, giving it an organic-feeling ride that one tester described as “bouncy enough to provide some energy return and feedback without feeling like you're prancing on marshmallowy clouds.” The minimalistic design offers comfort where you need it without any extra fluff or technology. Be warned that the fit is slightly different than previous versions based on its recently updated upper and stack height increase, but the versatility and ease of use make this shoe one we recommend for budget-conscious runners needing a lightweight daily trainer.

Measured Heel Stack Height	27 mm
Measured Weight i	5.44 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	3 mm
Plate Type	None
Rocker Angle	25.0 deg

The updated Saucony Kinvara is a lightweight superstar that is perfect for runners who don't want to fiddle with or even think about their shoes as they run. We find it to be one of the most comfortable and unintrusive-feeling kicks in our lineup, and while this might sound like a no-brainer, there are plenty of exceptional shoes on the market that require a bit of tongue-shifting or lace-tying in the field. The new upper is more traditional than versions past, which upped this shoe's comfort rating. This comfortable mesh and PWRRUN+ running shoe stays snug around your foot, making it a low-maintenance and affordable choice. If upper comfort is something you often struggle to dial in, the Hoka Mach 6 is a different option you should check out. It's a highly versatile shoe for not too much more than the Kinvara and features an upper with more cushioning and an inner layer that our testers described as “breathable, forgiving, and flexible.”

The Kinvara stands out as an ideal choice for runners seeking a lightweight shoe that is made for uptempo daily runs. This running shoe's impressive blend of versatility and affordability positions it as a compelling option for budget-conscious runners prioritizing high performance on the road. Its below-average weight of 5.44 ounces per women's size 6.5 shoe is nothing to sniff at either. Our testers love that the shoe strikes a comfortable middle ground between minimalism and energy. Though the 27 mm stack height is on the low end of today's spectrum, it provides better ground feel than most shoes. Our lead tester described running in these shoes as “riding a bit like the responsive shoes from a decade ago before all runners had access to super shoes.” With its peppy design and suitable features, the Kinvara caters to the dynamic needs of runners by providing a balanced and cost-effective solution for those looking for a running companion without breaking the bank.

The minimalistic structure of the Kinvara lacks the lateral support that some distance runners may covet. If this detracts from its appeal for you, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a significantly more supportive shoe that scores slightly higher across the board. Aside from a slightly narrow midfoot, the glorious legacy of the Kinvara lives on. If an affordable and peppy daily runner is what you are after, the levity and pep of the Kinvara will treat you and your wallet right.

Read more: Women's Saucony Kinvara 15 review

Best Balance of Speed and Comfort for Men

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a perfect fit for runners training for their next PR. Not many shoes can carry you through both long runs on the pavement and fast intervals on the track. Yet the Endorphin Speed 4 does this with ease. The PWRRUN PB foam, a smooth rocker, and a nylon plate all work together to create an understated yet propulsive ride that lead tester, Nathaniel Bailey, says “works really well and will do so for a wide variety of runners and use cases.” Saucony completely reworked the upper of with this version, and it's massively improved. The heel counter is less high and stiff, and the forefoot is slightly narrower to better accommodate runners with narrow-to-normal-width feet while offering enough space to accommodate runners with higher-volume feet.

Measured Heel Stack Height	38 mm
Measured Weight i	9.03 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	11 mm
Plate Type	Nylon
Rocker Angle	25.0 deg

The best part of the Endorphin Speed 4 is its balance between performance and comfort. No other shoe in our lineup scored as evenly in both areas. That balance is essential to its versatility, and while it isn't a super shoe, it's still pretty quick. It could work as a race shoe for many runners, especially those looking for a more stable and approachable ride. If you want to level up for your racing shoe, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is a similar shoe with a carbon plate (rather than the nylon plate of the Endorphin Speed) and extra pep — but also costs a good chunk more. Still, the Endorphin Speed is no ordinary workout shoe — our testers have found it plenty comfortable for races as well as 90+ minute efforts on the road. If you want a little more comfort in your next daily trainer and are willing to sacrifice a small amount of speed, we strongly recommend the impressively speedy, non-plated New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4.

We think most runners will get along with the Endorphin Speed 4, but it's best suited to those who are chasing a PR with regular tempos, workouts, or strides. The combination of the Speedroll rocker, PWRRUN PB foam, nylon plate, and the overall lightweight package suggest this shoe is best at faster paces. We think that's true, but the comfort and flexibility of the shoe make it a decent choice for everyday runs. Runners who only rarely try to push the pace will probably be best served by a shoe more optimized for comfort. However, the versatility of this shoe makes it a good choice in either a one-shoe rotation or as an uptempo option for faster runs. If you value comfortable speed, the Endorphin Speed 4 is aptly named.

Our biggest issue with the shoe is the price — this much for a daily trainer isn't cheap. That said, no other shoe outperforms the Endorphin Speed 4 when it comes to responsiveness without costing even more. Additionally, this shoe has proven itself to be quite durable. Our lead tester has over 175 miles on his pair, and it still feels fresh and is in good condition. It's stayed in his lineup for days when he isn't testing other shoes. Truly, if you're after the best balance of speed and comfort we've found in a daily trainer, there's no shoe we recommend more than the Endorphin Speed 4.

Read more: Men's Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 review

Best Combined Comfort and Speed for Women

Brooks Hyperion Max 2 - Women's

Shoes don't tend to excel when endeavoring to balance responsiveness and comfort. However, with a springy, full-length plastic plate built into its 27 mm forefoot and 35 mm heel stack, the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 offers a smooth and cushioned ride, even on long runs. Lead tester Ally Arcuri described these shoes as “potentially the best thing that Brooks has going on right now.” While the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris and the Nike Alphafly outscore the Hyperion in responsiveness, they are both race-focused and lack the versatility of a daily runner.

Measured Heel Stack Height	35 mm
Measured Weight i	7.17 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	8 mm
Plate Type	Full length plastic
Rocker Angle	24.5 deg

The plastic plate impedes some of the plush cushioning found in other high-stack models, but the Hyperion's firmer midsole ensures excellent energy return. If quick leg turnover is your focus, you'll appreciate the same qualities we do in this version of the Hyperion. With an 8 mm drop, it blends speed and comfort seamlessly, offering surprising stability that our testing team dubbed “a speed shoe that doesn't feel tippy.” Stability is not a common attribute of propulsive shoes, making the stability of the Hyperion even more impressive. While it's not built for overpronation correction, the shoe feels secure on the foot, solidifying its reputation as a standout for mid-distance races.

Runners who don't want to buy a collection of shoes should consider the Hyperion. This shoe offers enough comfort for daily runs but delivers a powerful pop for track workouts, racing, and uptempo runs. The Saucony Endorphine Speed 4 is another shoe we could recommend, with similar comfort and responsiveness at speed and a similar price point. The Endorphin Speed has better traction but weighs slightly more than the Hyperion (6.86 ounces vs. 7.17 ounces per women's 6.5 shoe) and is noticeably less stable. We think the Hyperion is a better overall shoe, and while it's not the most budget-friendly buy, the Hyperion is notably less expensive than some of the super shoes we've tested this season — and far more versatile. Runners who are interested in PRing in a do-it-all kind of daily trainer will love the DNA Flash V2 midsole, breathable upper, and energetic ride of the Hyperion.

The Hyperion doesn't offer the best traction, making it less suitable as a crossover shoe or in inclement conditions. It can handle the mildest of dirt paths but feels more at home on the tracks and dry roads. If you need more traction without losing comfort or speed, the heavyweight, plated Hoka Skyward X could be more your jam. At the end of the day, the Hyperion Max is awesome for runners who want some propulsion without committing to a full-on super shoe. One tester described this shoe as “perfect workhorse for runners who want to see an uptick in their paces while executing their run in a shoe that feels comfortable underfoot.” If comfort is king and speed is on the list of priorities, the Hyperion is one of our top recommendations.

Read more: Women's Brooks Hyperion Max 2 review

Best Race Day Shoe for Men

Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris

When race day finally comes, our men's testing team agrees that the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris is their top choice. Thanks to a highly resilient slab of FF Turbo Plus foam, a carbon plate, a smooth 24.5-degree rocker, and a natural feeling ride, we think this is not only one of the fastest but also one of the most versatile super shoes on the market. Lead tester Nathaniel Bailey describes the Metaspeed Sky as “a shoe that is fast and snappy off the forefoot, yet comfortable.” Sure, it's optimized for the marathon, but we recommend it for anything down to a road mile. We've even used it for time trials on the track with great results. This versatility in a race shoe is uncommon, and even the other high-performing race shoes we've tested, like the Nike Vaporfly 3, suffer a drop in their performance at more modest speeds.

Measured Heel Stack Height	39 mm
Measured Weight i	6.85 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	6 mm
Plate Type	Carbon
Rocker Angle	24.5 deg

We've run in a lot of super shoes. None have been faster than this one. That's partly thanks to the extremely low overall weight. In our lab, our US men's 10.5 tipped the scales at a scant 6.85 ounces per shoe! The next closest shoe we've tested has been the Vaporfly 3, which was 7.24 ounces. That difference may not sound like a lot, but it is huge, particularly when you consider that both shoes have 39 mm of foam at the heel, and the Asics has more under the forefoot (33 mm vs 28 mm). At race speeds, grams matter.

The Metaspeed Sky Paris is an excellent shoe for chasing fast times. Its carbon plate adds snap, but perhaps most importantly, its geometry is versatile. So, while each runner responds differently to shoes, we found that the overall design of this shoe makes it easier to take advantage of a wider variety of foot morphology and strike patterns. This is in contrast to other racing shoes we've tested, like the Nike Alphafly 3, which we found requires some time to learn how to best take advantage of (and still doesn't work for every runner). This makes the Metaspeed Sky Paris an excellent option for most serious runners who race regularly. Our testers noted that it's one of the better options “for runners who prefer a natural feeling to their race shoes.” The shoe is aggressive, but the rocker feels smoother off the forefoot, and the landing transitions are more comfortable than those of other super shoes. Finding a rhythm during long, hard efforts is easy in this shoe.

Like any super shoe, the Metaspeed Sky Paris isn't designed for easy days. Its cushioning is most comfortable and stable at efforts of marathon pace or faster. Runners who want many of the benefits of a super shoe but would rather sacrifice a little weight and speed for increased comfort will likely prefer the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4. That shoe took top marks among race shoes for stability, upper comfort, and traction thanks to its wider base and upper and full coverage rubber outsole — it just isn't quite as fast. Really, the only downside to the Metaspeed Sky is that it lacks traction on wet surfaces and around bends — which is another thing the FuelCell SuperComp Elite excels at. Those minor caveats aside, for nearly any runner looking for the best super shoe for racing, it's the Metaspeed Sky Paris we recommend.

Read more: Men's Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris review

Best Race Day Shoe for Women

Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris - Women's

The Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris impressed our testers by providing powerful responsiveness with a side of comfort and stability. While clearly a super shoe made for racing, this 5.10-ounce shoe (women's size 6.5) has a 6 mm drop, a full-length carbon fiber plate, and a natural-feeling 26.5-degree rocker angle, beginning at an aggressive-yet-comfortable 68.0% of the distance forward from the heel. These pieces coalesce beautifully to create a primed racing machine that “feels more natural than its competitors,” explosively powerful, yet still remains comfortable over long distances. No other super shoe we've tested offers this even of a blend of traits across the board, and this easily became our go-to racing choice.

Measured Heel Stack Height	38 mm
Measured Weight i	5.10 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	6 mm
Plate Type	Carbon
Rocker Angle	26.5 deg

As with many of our award-winning shoes, the magic exists in the combination of elements when it comes to the Metaspeed Sky, but its responsiveness is next level. One of our highest-scoring shoes in this metric, the rocker apex location, angle, and geometry combine with the carbon plate for noticeable energy return. Our testing team remarked that “the nimble ride [the Novablast] provides is unlike other racing shoes we've tested.” The heel stack is 38 mm, and the forefoot is 32 mm, creating an FF Turbo Plus launchpad that offers just enough cushion for comfort during uptempo running. The design of this shoe allows each footfall to roll seamlessly into the next, allowing runners to fully engage their natural gait patterns for exceptional running economy. For those looking for the most responsive shoe around, the Nike Alphafly 3 is that shoe. It involves more of a learning curve to take full advantage — and not everyone's mechanics are conducive to this shoe — and takes a hit in comfort and stability, but is the fastest shoe we've tested.

Runners who want a speed shoe that will provide some stability and comfort will feel right at home in the Metaspeed. This isn't going to be a daily trainer that you'll reach for on recovery run days, but it will treat you well when your runs demand a bit more speed. If you are looking for a daily trainer that dips a toe in the world of racing, the carbon-plated Puma Deviate Nitro 3 strikes a good balance of comfort and responsiveness at more speeds — and costs a lot less. But for those in search of a super shoe that offers a classic pop pop pop with each stride, you'll be in luck with the Metaspeed. The power that this shoe holds is serious, making it less suitable for runners who may want to simply try out a quicker shoe. Especially considering the price, the Metaspeed is best suited for runners who know they want a speedy shoe for race day.

Super shoes are here to stay, and while our female testers fell in love with the Metaspeed, they are far from the only option available on the market today. The Nike Vaporfly 3 is an equally responsive racing shoe that offers a slightly different fit but lacks the stability of the Metaspeed. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a more user-friendly (and more wallet-friendly), speed-centric daily trainer. The Endorphin Speed provides strong responsiveness, a nylon plate that is slightly less intense underfoot, and a lockdown that will keep you comfortable through high-mileage days. But if you're looking for the best all-around racing shoe that our entire testing team — men and women, both — agree on, it's this one. Lead tester Ally Arcuri remarked that “it won't be a magic bullet to Olympic-level speed, and its fit can't Sisterhood-of-the-Traveling-Pants its way into fitting all feet, but it is as close to a universal racing shoe as we have seen.”

Read more: Women's Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris review

How We Test Running Shoes

Our primary focus in testing running shoes is to run in them… a lot. Our male and female testers log many dozens of miles in each pair of shoes and choose various terrain types to include in their routes. Collectively, our expert running shoe test team members have logged thousands of miles in close to 500 pairs of running shoes and counting. When testing running shoes, we pay close attention to underfoot and upper comfort, stability, cushion, traction, and weight. In addition to running miles and miles in each shoe, we also buy a second pair of each shoe to perform a series of tests in our lab. These lab tests include cutting each shoe in half so we can precisely measure stack heights and heel-to-toe drop, rocker angle, weight, and more. Rather than trusting the manufacturer's measurements, we make all of our own measurements, so every specification we share is collected in a careful apples-to-apples manner. Our lab testing is then combined with our primary focus on running in each shoe to create a complete 360 analysis of each shoe.

Why Trust GearLab

Our main testers for this review include a collection of devoted runners with expertise in the sport, and most have spent years running and testing footwear for the GearLab team. Ally Arcuri is an avid runner and exercise specialist with a Cal State Fullerton kinesiology degree that helps her evaluate women's trail and road shoes from a biomechanical perspective. Nathaniel Bailey is the lead tester for our men's road shoe review. He competed in track and cross country from middle school through college and now continues to race on the roads and coach high school and recreational runners. Matthew Richardson is our current men's trail shoe expert, exploring as many trails in SW Colorado as he can. Specializing in computer mapping, he also does the testing for our GPS watch review, which helps create and explore new trail runs as he tests shoes. World-class runner Carrie Vickers has an impressive resume of Olympic trial rankings, World Championship qualifications, and for a time held the record in the 2000 meter steeplechase. She is now a professional running biomechanics consultant who has helped to inform our testing plans and adds advice to those trying to find the right shoes for their bodies and goals in a sea of shoes.

How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for You

You may be new to running and want to start on the right foot. You may be a long-time runner and know precisely what you like in a shoe, but are ready to branch out from your trusty model. Either way, you should consider a few things before purchasing your footwear. Each pair of running shoes has different features, and the right one depends on your personal preference and whether you want a multifunctional shoe or are okay with having a different pair of shoes for each activity.

Types of Road Running Shoes

Your running style and fitness goals will largely dictate which shoe style is the best for you. Suppose your typical run involves a 20-minute morning jog on the paved path around the neighborhood or a quick HIIT workout followed by a walk to the park with your kids. In that case, your shoe needs will differ wildly from the distance runner training for an ultramarathon or the trail junkie tackling rocky paths at high elevations. There are differences between men's and women's shoes in terms of the biomechanics of each gender. Some models are better for speedwork, and others offer better underfoot cushion to support long-distance efforts. The location, frequency, and duration of your run all matter.

Men's Road Running Shoes

Our lead tester for men's running shoes put each model through its paces in a range of mid-distance loops, long runs, recovery runs, quick-paced workouts, and sprinting sessions. Below are the scores outlined for our men's road running shoes review, featuring some of the best options available today.

Key Metric Scores of Men's Road Running Shoes

Product	Landing Comfort	Responsiveness	Upper Comfort	Weight
Asics Metaspeed Sky	8.8	9.7	5	10
Nike Alphafly 3	8.8	9.4	6.5	8.4
Nike Vaporfly 3	8.6	9.5	5	9.4
Mizuno Neo Vista	8.75	7.5	9.5	5.4
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4	8.5	7.5	6	8.4
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4	8	8	7.5	6.8
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4	7.8	9	5.5	7.9
Asics Superblast 2	8.5	7.7	7.8	6.2
On Cloudsurfer 7	8.1	6.5	8.5	6.7
Asics Novablast 4	8.25	7	8	5.8
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4	8.1	8.7	6	6.2
Saucony Kinvara 15	5	7	6.5	9.4
Puma Deviate Nitro 2	7	7.5	7	6
Puma Velocity Nitro 3	8	7	7	5.3
Hoka Mach 6	7	7.5	4.5	7.3
Hoka Skyward X	10	4.5	8	2.5
Altra Vanish Tempo	6.5	7.25	5	6.2
New Balance FuelCell Propel v5	7.5	6	6.5	4.7
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26	9	3	9	3.4
Reebok Floatride Energy 5	6	6	6.5	5.8
Adidas Adizero Boston 12	8	7.7	3	5.5
Saucony Triumph 22	9.2	3	8.7	3.1
Topo Magnifly 5	5	5.2	7	6.1
Hoka Clifton 9	7	5	5.5	5.5
Altra Torin 7	6	5.5	5.3	6
Asics Gel-Kayano 31	7.4	4.5	7.5	3
New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4	9	3.5	6	3.7
Brooks Ghost 16	5	3.5	7.25	5
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23	4	5	7	4.6
Hoka Bondi 8	5.5	2	4	2.8

Women's Road Running Shoes

Similarly, our lead women's tester put each shoe through the wringer, totaling a minimum of 30 miles in each pair and testing them out in various workouts and environments. All models from our women's running shoe review are ranked below according to their overall performance score.

Key Metric Scores of Women's Road Running Shoes

Product	Landing Comfort	Responsiveness	Upper Comfort	Weight
Nike Alphafly 3	8.5	10	6	9.4
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris	8	9	6.5	9.8
Asics Novablast 4	9	7.5	8	7.4
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4	7.5	9	7	8
Nike Vaporfly 3	7	9.5	5	10
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4	8	8	7.5	7.9
Brooks Hyperion Max 2	7.5	8	8	7.6
Saucony Kinvara 15	7.5	7.5	6.5	9.6
Hoka Mach 6	8	7	7.5	8.5
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4	7	7.5	7	9
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4	7	8.5	6	8.8
Altra Vanish Tempo	7.5	7	8	7.5
Puma Deviate Nitro 3	7.5	7.5	6.5	7.5
Hoka Skyward X	8.5	7.5	7	5.7
ON Cloudsurfer 7	8	6	6.5	8.2
Mizuno Neo Vista	8.5	7	6	7
Hoka Clifton 9	8	5.5	7	7.6
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23	7.5	6	8	6.3
Asics Gel-Kayano 31	9	4	8	6
Brooks Ghost 16	7.5	5	7.5	7
Reebok Floatride Energy 5	6.5	6	6.5	7.4
Adidas Supernova Rise	7	6.5	7	5.8
Adidas Adizero Boston 12	7	7.5	4.5	7.3
Lululemon Blissfeel 2	7	6.5	7	5.5
Altra Torin 7	7.5	5	5	7.5
Altra Via Olympus 2	8	4.5	6.5	6
Brooks Glycerin 21	6.5	4	7.5	6.8
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26	9	3	6.5	5.8
Hoka Bondi 8	7	4.5	6	5.5

Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?

Manufacturers often make specific versions of their shoes for men and women, and you may wonder how different can they be? Is it worth seeking out a male or female-specific shoe? The answer is maybe. Women's specific shoes are not just a smaller version of their men's counterparts. There are a few important design differences made to accommodate the varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs of men and women.

To start, the average woman is smaller and lighter than the average male, and women's shoes may have a softer midsole with a lighter wearer in mind. On average, men's shoes are wider than women's. However, women's shoes differ in the proportional width, generally featuring a narrower heel cup to help secure the back of the foot and a roomier forefoot to allow toes to splay naturally. Women are more likely to overpronate due to the difference in biomechanics and joint mobility relating to the shape of their hips and pelvis, so women's shoes are sometimes more stability-oriented. The narrower heel cup also helps you stay secure in your shoe and guides the foot into a proper landing position.

So, yes, there are differences, but you should never feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. At the end of the day, the best shoe is the one that is most comfortable for you.

Daily Trainers

These shoes are what most people think of when looking for “a pair of running shoes.” They tend to be versatile, with attributes that work at slow or faster paces and some level of comfort for pounding down the pavement. They typically balance performance (like speed and springiness) with cushioning and overall comfort. Daily trainers can lie at many points along the spectrum between prioritizing speed and prioritizing comfort. What you value most is a personal preference. Most of our testing is of this type of shoe, and we aim to tease apart exactly where along that speed-comfort spectrum each pair falls.

Max-Cushioning Shoes

There are probably no surprises as to what max-cushioning shoes prioritize. These running shoes are meant to shield your body from the jolt and jarring of the road. They almost always have high stack heights that are clearly obvious when you look at them. Most max-cushioning shoes are made of absorptive foams and other materials that help to lessen the impacts of your strides. This typically (but not always) results in a trade-off with their responsiveness, and some can feel quite sluggish. These feature-filled shoes are often also heavier than daily trainers. They tend to fall more on the comfort end of the speed-comfort spectrum and are usually a solid choice for slow and steady mileage. However, some buck this trend and are still able to maintain responsiveness at speed and manage a lower weight — that's why we test them all.

Racing Shoes

Many of these are what have come to be called “super shoes.” They're filled with new and exciting technology, like proprietary plates to add propulsion, that are made of carbon, nylon, TPU, and other materials. These shoes are often lightweight and many cut comfort features in the upper portion of the shoe while maintaining cushioning underfoot at race speeds. Due to some interesting geometry and prioritizing forward speed over other features, race shoes often lack the lateral stability and traction in inclement conditions that other shoes have. These shoes are designed to help you go fast in races but aren't meant for the rigors and diversity of everyday training.

How Much Cushion is Right for You?

Levels of cushioning range from maximalist to barefoot, with maximalist shoes providing the highest stack heights and the most plush underfoot cushion. Stack height for this type of shoe can be 45 mm or more. Moderately cushioned shoes have a stack height between 30 mm and 35 mm. Barefoot shoes provide next to no underfoot cushion and may have a “stack height” as low as 3 mm, providing just a thin layer of rubber outsole to protect against abrasive surfaces.

Highly responsive shoes tend to have less cushioning and, instead, have a design focused on maximizing energy return from each step. A lower profile feels more agile and keeps you moving at a fast clip, while steep rocker angles and springy sole plates can help propel you forward. Runners who like to keep their workouts short and sweet or experienced runners who frequently participate in 5K or 10K races will probably love a shoe with higher responsiveness scores, even if it means sacrificing some comfort.

How Much Support Do You Need?

Support differs from shoe to shoe and is influenced by geometry, base width, foam density, and sometimes added internal stability structures. Neutral, stability, and motion control shoes offer varying levels of support — almost all of the shoes we test fall within the neutral category, with a few models offering extra stability features. These types of shoes are appropriate for most runners. Motion control shoes are meant to address issues with severe overpronation or oversupination. If this sounds like you, visit your podiatrist for specialized advice on shoe recommendations.

It helps to understand basic running mechanics when deciding how much support is right for you.

• Pronation is the slight inward roll of your foot that helps to absorb and lessen the impact on the joints when you land. A moderate amount of pronation is a natural part of a runner's stride, and most neutral shoes are designed to accommodate this motion. However, if this rolling motion is exaggerated or minimized, it can lead to injury down the road. Overpronation is when the foot rolls too far inward, misaligning the ankle, knee, and hip joints and placing excessive stress on the muscles on the bottom of the foot. This often happens to runners with lower arches or more flexible feet, and when looking at the sole of your shoe, you will see excessive wear on the inner edge.

• Supination is the reverse of pronation. The natural outward roll of the ankle happens when you are bounding out of your stride and into the next. Oversupination usually occurs when the arch of the foot is overly tight and does not flex as much as it should, causing runners to put more weight on the outer edge of the foot and placing strain on the muscles and tendons used in ankle stabilization. If you oversupinate, you may see excessive wear on the outer edge of your shoe.

Stability shoes can be helpful in correcting mild overpronation and oversupination. Shoes in our testing that score higher in stability feel solid and secure underfoot and have features that guide the foot into a more ergonomic landing position. They tend to be a bit more rigid, feature wider footbeds, or have stiffer foam, all of which are meant to minimize unnecessary side-to-side rocking that can lead to injury. That said, there is evidence that running in a rotation of two to three different shoes can be more effective at injury prevention than wearing stability or motion-control shoes. The best way to know how much stability to look for in your shoe is to have your gait analyzed by a professional and try on multiple shoes based on their recommendations.

Midsole Features

The real meat of a road running shoe is found in the midsole. The materials, level of cushioning, and flexibility will help you determine if a shoe is right for you. But stack height, heel-toe drop, rocker angle — what does it all mean? These are all measurements that can tell you about the level of cushioning, support, and responsiveness you can expect from a shoe.

Below are some essential terms to know when evaluating the midsole materials and performance.

Stack Height

This refers to the height or the thickness of the cushioning found in a shoe. While there is no strict industry standard for this measurement, we use a standardized method to compare the shoes we test and include the total amount of material that sits between your foot and the ground, including insole, midsole, and outsole. Stack height can play a big part in how the shoe feels underfoot, and while stack height does not strictly correspond to comfort or cushiness, it is a good place to start when narrowing down your options. Taller stack heights usually offer a more pillowy feeling ride, and lower stack heights provide more sensitivity and a better ground feel.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

This is the difference in height from the heel of a shoe to the toe. Typical road shoes average around a 5 mm - 10 mm drop, and you can find shoes with a great or smaller drop that will be better for you depending on your running style and preferences. Higher drop measurements may be better for heel strikers, shifting impact force from feet/ankles to the knees/hips. Lower drop shoes encourage toe striking and shift the impact load from knee/hip joints to the feet/ankles. You can also look at zero-drop shoes with the same stack height measurements at both the heel and the toe. Note that zero drop does not mean zero cushion — you can find a maximally cushioned shoe with a zero heel-toe differential.

Zero-drop shoes tend to offer a bit more stability as they discourage ankle rolls over rogue roots and rocks. The lower your heel sits in the shoe, the more inherently stable your body is, as you will be more wholly engaging the rear chain off muscles from your glutes all the way down to your feet. However, runners will tight calves, arches, and plantar fascia are likely to have a somewhat painful adjustment period if they switch from a 10 mm drop runner to a zero-drop runner as their muscles gain flexibility and awaken new movement patterns. Conversely, runners who are accustomed to zero-drop shoes will likely experience tenderness as they transition to a shoe with a higher heel lift. No two runners have the exact same anatomy and gait patterns, making it important to listen to your body as you delve into the nitty-gritty details of the running shoe world.

Rocker Angle

This angle refers to the geometry near the toe of a shoe that encourages your foot to “rock” forward. A more lifted forefoot profile keeps you on your toes and allows you to expend less energy to get that forward rolling motion, which can help your runs feel more fluid and efficient. A steeper rocker angle provides a more aggressive rolling feeling and responsiveness but may compromise stability.

Carbon Fiber or Nylon Plates

Some shoes have a rigid structure running lengthwise through the inner sole, usually made either from carbon fiber or stiff plastic like nylon. Nike has helped make carbon-plated shoes famous, with racing shoes like the Next % line and the Vaporfly, which have been used to do everything from breaking the 2-hour marathon record in 2017 to resetting distance course records around the world. The sole plates are combined with special energetic foam material to help provide better energy return with each step, and in our experience, plated shoes have a springy, energetic feel that makes them distinctly fast. Many plated shoes are designed for racing or timed training runs, but newer plated shoes are innovating in ways that make them potentially suitable for everyday running.

The Importance of Fit

Fit is potentially the most valuable factor to consider when buying a pair of running shoes. At the end of the day, the shoe that feels the most comfortable is the right shoe for you. There is even evidence that suggests wearing more comfortable shoes is associated with better running economy.

On that note, the fit of your running shoes will be different than that of your casual shoes. Your running sneakers should feel snug in the heel and midfoot but have enough room in the forefoot and toebox that you could “play the piano with your toes.” There should be about 1/2 to 1 inch of extra length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, allowing enough wiggle room for your toes to splay naturally through your landing.

You will find that sizing isn't always consistent across brands. Some run large, and some run small. Some brands are known for having narrow-fitting shoes, while others have a wide and roomy toe box. Because each model has a slightly different profile, we recommend purchasing shoes from a location where you can try them on first or going through a website with a good return policy. Try on shoes at the time of day you would normally train, and wear your favorite running socks. Take them for a quick spin if you can, and always try on both shoes. Over time, you will likely dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.

Conclusion

Running is a centuries-old practice that has many mental and physical health benefits, whether you are brand new to the sport, or training for your next ultramarathon. The right pair of shoes is essential to keep you on your feet and on the move, but with the abundance of choices in today's market, it is necessary to do the research before committing to a pair. Luckily, we have researched and tested hundreds of models to find the ins and outs of each pair, and we hope that this list of our favorites will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and running goals.