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We run more than 50 miles in every pair of shoes we test, putting top models head to head to find the best from Nike, Hoka, Saucony, New Balance, Asics, and more
Credit: Natalie Kafader
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 14, 2026
Running can free you from the stressors of the world, boost your mood, and improve your health. A great pair of running shoes brings the promise of a new day, a fresh run, and a better mood.
Our favorite daily trainer for men and women is the Asics Novablast 5. This impressive, high-cushion shoe offers comfort, versatility, and an attractive price tag. We appreciated the energetic ride of the Novablast, whether for easy runs or longer miles.
If you're just getting into the running game, we love the Saucony Ride 19. Our women's and men's testers loved the straightforward and familiar fit of this shoe. The lower heel-toe drop and subtle structured design are ideal for new runners or casual adventures.
For budget runners, the best choice varies with the Hoka Mach 6 being our favorite budget women's shoe, and the Adidas Adizero SL2 coming out on top for men's budget running shoe.
Since 2011, we've tested more than 600 pairs of men's and women's road running shoes, logging thousands of miles across the country in all kinds of weather. We test for cushioning, stability, traction, breathability, and more, comparing popular shoes side by side in a head-to-head run-off to the finish line.
If your runs regularly take you off-road, a great trail running shoe might be a better choice for the terrain or your goals.
Who is this best for? The Asics Novablast 5 is ideal for runners who prioritize plush cushioning, reliability, and a lively underfoot feel in their daily miles. It's a great match for runners of all kinds who want a soft, energetic ride for easy runs, long outings, and moderate-paced efforts, as well as for those who appreciate a wider forefoot or a more forgiving fit than many standard trainers provide. Runners who enjoy bouncy midsoles, smooth transitions, and a shoe that feels both cushioned and versatile will find the Novablast 5 especially appealing.
Why we love it: What makes the Asics Novablast 5 shine is its combination of deeply cushioned comfort and surprising energy. The FF Blast+ Max midsole delivers cloudlike softness without feeling sluggish, offering impact protection that makes long runs noticeably easier on the body. The breathable mesh upper, structured heel, and broader toe box work together to create a secure yet comfortable fit that accommodates a range of foot shapes.
Should you buy it? The Asics Novablast 5 offers a compelling blend of versatility, comfort, and value, making it a strong everyday option for a wide range of runners. It may not deliver the most reliable traction, but it remains a well-rounded and competent trainer that performs reliably across everything from easy miles to longer efforts and light uptempo work. With its reasonable price, consistently plush cushioning, and durable build that withstands substantial mileage, it's an appealing choice for anyone seeking a single shoe that can comfortably handle most of their weekly training.
The Novablast 5 is an excellent choice for runners looking for a well-rounded daily trainer. Credit: Laurel Morrow
Offering plush cushioning, durability, and all-around reliability, the Novablast 5 is an attractive do-it-all option for runners who want one shoe for all of their fitness-related endeavors. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Novablast 5 delivers consistent cushioning and strong durability. Credit: Ally Arcuri
With a comfortable collar and a heel loop for easy wearing, the Novablast is a very accessible shoe. Credit: Ally Arcuri
From coastal bluffs to local 5ks, the Novablast is a versatile shoe to consider adding to your lineup. Credit: Laurel Morrow
The Novablast has a high stack height of cushion. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The updated traction pattern of the Novablast adds a bit of traction, though it is still not a standout shoe in this metric. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We measure the stack height of each shoe, including the Novablast 5, at the heel and toe. Credit: Natalie Kafader
With its abundant comfort and stability, it is no wonder that the Novablast 5 weighs a bit more than some of the speed-focused options. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We cut the Novablast 5 women's shoe in half to examine and measure the footbed and foam sole. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Who is this best for? The Asics Novablast 5 is for runners who want a comfortable, bouncy shoe that makes running feel fun. It works across a range of paces and distances, from short easy runs to longer weekend efforts. There's a lot of cushioning underfoot, and the shoe rolls smoothly whether you land on your heel or midfoot. The soft foam does mean less stability, so runners who need support should look elsewhere. But for most runners who want a versatile, engaging daily trainer, this is our top pick.
Why we love it: The Novablast 5 stands out because of how it feels on the run. The FF Blast Max foam is soft, forgiving, and bouncy. It protects your legs on long efforts and still has enough energy to make faster runs enjoyable. The upper is lightweight and breathable, and the fit works for most foot shapes. It's a shoe that does a lot of things well without trying to be specialized, which is exactly what a daily trainer should be.
Should you buy it? If you want one shoe that can handle most of your running, yes. The Novablast 5 is well-cushioned, versatile, and fairly priced. The one area where it falls short is stability. If you're a newer runner, you might be better served by something more planted and predictable, like the Saucony Ride 19. But for everyone else, this is one of the best all-around running shoes we've tested.
Who is this best for? The Saucony Ride 19 is a shoe that feels comfortable right out of the box. Its enticing fit works especially well for runners who prioritize comfort and protection over speed, making it a strong option for beginners, high-mileage runners, walkers, and anyone wanting a versatile shoe that can handle a little bit of everything.
Why we love it: The Ride 19 is the shoe we reach for on daily runs because of the comfort and support it provides. Lacing up running shoes and getting out the door at the end of a long day can feel hard. When it comes to this road running shoe, the cushioning, supportively wide platform, and slight bounce are inviting enough to encourage runs on days when comfort and ease are king. All of the aforementioned qualities make the Ride 19 an easy-to-recommend shoe for new runners seeking comfort in their strides.
Should you buy it? The Saucony Ride 19 is a great choice for runners looking for a reliable, comfortable shoe that can handle daily training, recovery runs, walking, and longer mileage with ease. Its balanced cushioning and stable feel make it especially appealing for runners who want an easygoing ride that feels protective without being overly soft or unstable.
The Ride offers smooth comfortable that is suitable for new runners seeking a shoe to get them through their first running efforts. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Not just made for new runners, experienced runners will also appreciate the comfort and ease that this updated road shoe offers. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The updated underfoot foams help make this shoe a comfortable and highly recommended option. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We unpack the tiniest details of each shoe to ensure our recommendations find their way into the hands of the runners who need them most. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Easy runs are made easier with the comfort and smooth fit of the Ride. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Who is this best for? The Saucony Ride 19 is for runners who are just getting started or anyone who wants a comfortable, no-fuss daily trainer. It has soft, forgiving cushioning that protects your legs without feeling mushy, and a wide, stable base that keeps the shoe feeling planted. If you're building up from walking to running, or mixing walk and run intervals, this shoe handles both well. It fits true to size, comes in regular and wide, and doesn't require any fiddling to get comfortable.
Why we love it: The Ride 19 just works. The PWRRUN+ foam is soft enough to cushion your landing but firm enough that you don't sink in. The wider platform feels stable and grounded, which is reassuring for runners who are still finding their stride. The reworked XT-900 outsole grips well on wet pavement and packed gravel, so you don't have to second-guess your footing when the weather changes. And at its price point, it's one of the best values in our lineup.
Should you buy it? If you're new to running and want something comfortable, stable, and easy to trust, the Ride 19 is one of the best places to start. It handles easy runs, long runs, and walking days without complaint. The one thing it doesn't do well is speed. If you try to push into faster paces, the foam feels sluggish. For runners who want more versatility at quicker paces, the Adidas Adizero SL2 is lighter and more responsive. But for the majority of a new runner's weekly miles, the Ride 19 covers all of it comfortably and reliably.
Who is this best for? The Asics Gel-Contend 9 is best for runners, walkers, and gym-goers looking for a lightweight, straightforward shoe at an affordable price. Its lower-volume fit and nimble feel make it especially appealing to people who dislike bulky max-cushion trainers and prefer something simple, flexible, and easy to move in.
Why we love it: The Asics Gel-Contend 9 stands out because of the value it delivers for the price. The ride feels surprisingly lightweight, with a minimal feel that works well for walking, short runs, travel, and everyday wear. While it does not offer premium-level cushioning or bounce, the shoe feels reliable, breathable, and comfortable enough for a wide range of activities without feeling overbuilt or heavy.
Should you buy it? If you want a running shoe without spending a fortune, the Gel-Contend is an easy recommendation. It is ideal for beginners, casual runners, students, or anyone seeking a versatile everyday trainer on a strict budget. Serious high-mileage runners may want more cushioning and responsiveness, but for affordability, comfort, and simplicity, the Gel-Contend is worth considering.
Who is this best for? The Adidas Adizero SL2 is for runners who want a solid shoe without spending a lot. It works just as well for someone going on their first run as it does for a lifelong runner looking for a reliable daily trainer. It's light, comfortable on the run, and responsive enough to handle some faster efforts when you want to push it.
Why we love it: The SL2 has Adidas' top-tier Lightstrike Pro foam in the midsole, which is the same foam they use in much more expensive shoes. That gives it cushioning and energy return that you wouldn't expect at this price. It feels like a modern daily trainer that happens to cost less than the competition. We love how well it handles everything from easy jogs to harder workouts without any fuss.
Should you buy it? At this price, the SL2 should be on almost every runner's radar. It outperforms shoes that cost significantly more, and it regularly goes on sale. It doesn't offer stability features, so if you need support through your stride, look elsewhere. But for a straightforward, well-cushioned daily trainer that won't break the bank, this is one of the best deals in running shoes right now.
Who is this best for? The New Balance 1080v15 is best for runners who want soft, reliable cushioning for daily miles, recovery runs, long runs, and all-day comfort. It especially suits runners who prioritize impact protection and an easygoing ride over speed, making it a strong option for beginners, high-mileage runners, walkers, and anyone spending long hours on their feet.
Why we love it: What makes the 1080v15 stand out is its ability to feel deeply cushioned without becoming unstable or overly mushy. While still not the top choice for speedy efforts, New Balance's updated “Fresh Foam X” midsole delivers a softer, bouncier ride than previous versions while still feeling smooth and controlled underfoot. Combined with the roomy engineered mesh upper and naturally rolling transitions, the shoe feels comfortable from the moment you step into it.
Should you buy it? If your priority is comfort and protection for everyday running, the 1080v15 is easy to recommend. It handles easy runs and long miles exceptionally well while remaining comfortable enough for walking and casual wear. Runners looking for a lightweight speed shoe may want something more aggressive, but for daily training and comfort-focused mileage, the 1080 v15 delivers one of the most balanced max-cushion experiences available.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 delivers a soft, smooth ride that makes daily miles feel (somewhat) effortless. Credit: Ally Arcuri
With its plush cushioning and stable platform, the 1080 v15 is built to keep runners comfortable on everything from recovery runs to long-distance training. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Fresh Foam X midsole creates a balanced ride that feels soft underfoot without becoming overly mushy or unstable. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Designed for comfort above all else, the 1080 v15 works just as well for long runs and walking as it does for everyday training. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The New Balance 1080 v15 combines max cushioning, a roomy fit, and smooth transitions into one of the most well-cushioned daily trainers available. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Who is this best for? The Nike Vomero 18 is for runners who want a lot of cushioning without a squishy or unstable feeling. It's built for easy and steady-pace running, and it's a real workhorse for long runs and marathon training. The dual-foam midsole compresses smoothly on landing and rolls you forward, so the shoe feels protective without feeling like a pillow. If you want a cushioned shoe that still feels controlled and confident underfoot, this is the one.
Why we love it: Most max-cushion shoes feel soft but wobbly. The Vomero feels soft but planted, because it uses two layers of foam: a softer layer on top absorbs the impact, and a firmer layer underneath keeps you stable and rolling forward. The result is a shoe that feels protective and smooth without the uncertainty common with softer, less structured alternatives. It also holds up well over long distances. We felt fresher at the end of long runs in the Vomero than in most other shoes with this amount of cushion.
Should you buy it? If you want a highly cushioned shoe for easy and long runs, the Vomero should be at the top of your list. It's heavy and not great for faster paces, so it's not a one-shoe-does-everything option. But for the miles that are supposed to feel comfortable and protective, it delivers better than most.
Who is this best for? The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is best suited for runners seeking comfort, stability, and a predictable daily trainer. Runners craving stability will find quiet, confident support that doesn't scream “techy” or “heavy.” Even those who don't require extra stability will notice how invitingly soft and comfortable it is underfoot, making longer runs feel less taxing. Its understated design and balanced feel make it an appealing option for a reliable, no-fuss trainer.
Why we love it: We love the stability structure embedded into the Asics Gel-Kayano 32. Not only does this build help guide strides, but it feels minimal during runs. The subtlety of Kayano's guidance features helps it maintain comfort on longer efforts, unlike some stability shoes, which can feel too rigid. The Gel-Kayano combines subtle support with everyday comfort, providing a ride that is both reassuring and effortless.
Should you buy it? If your priority is a stable, supportive shoe that delivers comfort and reliability on every run, the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a top choice. It may not provide a springy, high-energy feel for speed-focused runners, but its smooth, controlled ride is ideal for everyday training. Newer runners or anyone wanting a low-maintenance, dependable stability shoe will appreciate its thoughtful design and all-day comfort. For runners seeking a trustworthy daily trainer that balances comfort, support, and versatility, it's hard to go wrong with this road runner.
The Gel-Kayano's smooth mesh upper, cushioned collar, and controlled midsole provide steady, all-day comfort and secure support on every run. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Stability shoes that feature secure traction patterns inspire confidence and can help runners build to exceed all of their running goals. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Gel-Kayano 32 is ideal for runners seeking a stable, comfortable, and reliable daily trainer suitable for a variety of foot shapes and road conditions. Credit: Ally Arcuri
If you value dependable stability, joint protection, and consistent traction, the Gel-Kayano 32 is a strong, low-maintenance choice for daily training. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The cushioning in the Gel-Kayano strikes a perfect balance, absorbing impact smoothly while keeping each step stable and grounded, so your feet feel protected without losing connection to the road. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We measured the Gel-Kayano in our lab. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Gel-Kayano 32 is ideal for runners prioritizing steady support, comfort, and consistency over speed. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Who is this best for? The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is for runners who need stability but don't want a shoe that feels stiff or restrictive. The stability features are subtle. Instead of forcing your foot into a specific position, the Kayano uses a wide base and gradual changes in foam density to keep you tracking straight. If you've tried stability shoes that felt intrusive or uncomfortable, this one takes a different approach.
Why we love it: The Kayano 32 feels like a comfortable daily trainer that happens to have stability built in. The upper is soft and well-padded, the toe box has plenty of room, and it's well-cushioned with soft upper materials, making it comfortable for long runs. The wide platform and subtle guidance feel natural, which is rare for a stability shoe.
Should you buy it? If you want stability and comfort in one shoe, the Kayano 32 is our top choice. It's not bouncy, it's not light, and it's not built for speed. But for runners who need support and want something that feels comfortable over daily miles, it's the best balance we've found. If you don't specifically need stability features, other shoes in our lineup offer a more engaging ride.
Who is this best for? The Altra Escalante 4 is for runners who prefer a zero-drop, natural-feeling shoe. It fits differently from everything else in our lineup, with a toe box that matches the shape of your foot rather than tapering to a point. If you're not running high mileage but want a comfortable shoe for walking, the gym, and some casual running, this is the most comfortable option we've tested.
Why we love it: The Escalante feels like a sock with a sole. The natural foot shape is roomy without being sloppy, and the lightweight mesh breathes well on hot days. Our lead tester wears it regularly in the summer just because it feels good on his feet. The lockdown is solid despite the minimal padding, and the traction handles pavement and light gravel well.
Should you buy it? If you plan on doing a lot of running, you'll probably want more cushioning than the Escalante offers. The foam is firm and thin, and we felt rocks through the sole on rougher surfaces. For serious training mileage, the Altra Torin 8 gives you the same zero-drop feel with better protection. But for everyday wear, walking, gym sessions, and shorter runs, the Escalante is hard to beat for comfort.
The Escalante is one of the most comfortable running shoes for everyday wear. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
It's easy to feel rocks through the midsole of the Escalante 4, but it is a minimalist shoe. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
The Escalante is a low-cushion shoe. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
The Escalante offers excellent grip on pavement. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
The Escalante has a wide toe box, allowing for a natural splay of the toes. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
The Escalante engineered upper is highly breathable. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Escalante 4 is a minimalist style shoe with a zero heel-to-toe drop and less cushion stack. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We measured the rocker angle of the Escalante 4. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Escalante has only 22 mm of foam. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We cut the Escalante 4 in half to see what is inside. Credit: Natalie Kafader
A peek inside our running shoe test lab. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Why Trust GearLab
Our main testers are a group of dedicated runners with years of experience testing footwear. Ally Arcuri is an avid runner, cross country and track coach, and exercise specialist with a Cal State Fullerton kinesiology degree that informs her evaluation of women's trail and road shoes. Nathaniel Bailey competed in track and cross country from middle school through college and now coaches high school and recreational runners while racing on the road. Matthew Richardson rounds out the men's team. With years of running experience and recent accolades, like being a top-ten finisher in the Telluride Mountain Run, Matthew knows a thing or two about running and the best shoes for daily joy and success.
World-class runner Carrie Vickers has an impressive resume of Olympic trial rankings and World Championship qualifications, and once held the record in the 2000 meter steeplechase. She is now a professional running biomechanics consultant who has helped inform our testing methods.
The right running shoes for you should bring a smile to your face and make every run better. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How to Pick the Best Running Shoes
Whether you're a new runner looking to start on the right foot or a long-time runner seeking a new pair, there are key considerations to finding the perfect shoe for your goals.
When to Replace Your Running Shoes
The general recommendation is to replace your running shoes every 300 to 500 miles. Telltale signs from your body that you need new shoes include getting hotspots or blisters you didn't have before, and feeling more achy after your long runs. You should also assess the wear on the shoes themselves. The shoe is probably ready to retire if it shows signs of excessive wear on the sole or anywhere else.
Finding the right running shoe for you can be fun and rewarding once the miles start adding up. Credit: Laurel Morrow
Types of Running Shoes
Running shoes typically come in men's and women's sizes, with some variation in design to suit the general foot dimensions of each gender, the type of running the wearer will be doing, and additional stability or comfort features.
Is it worth seeking out shoes that are specifically designed for men or women? The answer is maybe. Shoes designed for women are not always scaled-down versions of their men's counterparts. A few important design differences are made to accommodate the varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs.
Women's shoes often feature a softer midsole, a narrower heel cup to help secure the back of the foot, and a roomier forefoot to allow the toes to splay naturally. Men's shoes are typically wider. There are differences, but you should never feel restricted to purchasing shoes based on the gender to which you were assigned. The best shoe is the one most comfortable to you.
What does science say about gendered shoes? Recent research seems to suggest that despite the efforts to tailor shoes for a woman's body, the differences thus far have not had a significant impact on biomechanics or the gaits of female runners. So, assuming the fit is good and the comfort is divine, your personal experience probably outweighs the box's description.
Some shoe models have slight variations between the men's and women's versions. Credit: GearLab Staff
Men's Shoes
Men's running shoes are typically larger and wider than women's shoes, and they feature designs tailored to the specific needs of a larger foot and body. We tested for factors such as cushioning, comfort, breathability, traction, and more. Here are the scores from all the shoes in the current men's road running shoe lineup:
Key Metric Scores of Men's Road Running Shoes
Product
Comfort/Fit
Cushion
Breathability
Traction
Adidas Adizero Evo SL
7.5
8.0
8.5
7.5
Adidas Adizero SL2
6.8
7.0
8.0
9.0
Asics Novablast 5
8.0
8.6
8.6
5.5
Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
5.0
9.0
10.0
6.0
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
7.0
7.2
9.0
6.5
Hoka Mach 7
6.5
8.0
8.7
6.5
Altra Escalante 4
9.5
2.0
9.5
8.0
Altra Torin 8
8.0
6.0
6.8
8.0
NewBalance 1080v15
7.0
8.8
7.5
5.5
Saucony Ride 19
7.8
7.5
6.5
7.0
Nike Vomero 18
7.0
8.6
5.5
7.5
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28
7.0
8.2
7.0
5.0
Nike Pegasus 41
6.5
5.5
6.5
7.8
Asics Gel-Kayano 32
7.2
8.0
4.5
6.0
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
7.0
6.5
5.0
7.0
Brooks Ghost 17
7.0
6.5
4.5
7.5
On Cloudsurfer Next
6.5
6.5
6.5
6.0
New Balance FuelCell Propel v5
6.5
6.5
6.0
6.0
Brooks Ghost Max 3
6.5
7.5
5.0
6.0
Hoka Clifton 10
6.5
6.5
5.5
5.5
Hoka Bondi 9
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.0
Hoka Arahi 8
5.0
6.0
5.0
5.0
Asics Gel-Contend 9
5.0
3.5
5.5
5.5
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11
5.0
3.0
5.0
5.5
The current men's road running shoe competitors and how they performed in key metrics.
Once you determine the type of running you'll be doing, you can narrow down your search to include only shoes that will help you accomplish your goals. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Women's Shoes
Regardless of how they are designed or the features and materials used, women have different body structures and gaits than men. This is part of why our testers of different genders often disagree on which shoes are the best. Here are the scores across the lineup of women's road running shoes:
Key Metric Scores of Women's Road Running Shoes
Product
Comfort/Fit
Cushioning
Breathability
Traction
Brooks Glycerin 23
8
8
7.5
9
Asics Novablast 5
8.5
9
7.5
6.5
Saucony Ride 19
7.5
8.5
7.5
8
Adidas Adizero Evo SL
7.5
8
9
6.5
Asics Gel-Kayano 32
8.5
7.5
7
7.5
New Balance 1080v15
7
9
7
7.5
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
7
8
9
6.5
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
7.5
7
6.5
9
Altra Torin 8
8
7
6
8.5
Brooks Ghost 17
7
6.5
6.5
9
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28
6
8
8
7
Asics Gel-Contend 9
7.5
6.5
7.5
7
Hoka Mach 7
7
6.5
8.5
6.5
Hoka Clifton 10
6.5
7
6.5
8
Topo Athletic Phantom 4
8
7
6
7
Hoka Bondi 9
7.5
8.5
4
8
Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
6.5
7
10
4
On Cloudsurfer Max
6
7
8
6
Brooks Ghost Max 3
6
7
6
8
Hoka Arahi 8
6.5
7.5
5
7.5
Altra Escalante 4
6
5.5
8
7
Nike Pegasus 41
6.5
6.5
5.5
7
The current women's road running shoe competitors and how they performed in key metrics.
We take measurements of width, length, and toebox volume to help you determine the best fit for your foot type. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Importance of Fit
Fit is the most important factor to consider when buying a new pair of shoes. The shoe that feels the most comfortable is the right shoe for you. If a shoe doesn't feel good, move on.
Sizing isn't always consistent across brands. Some run large, and some run small. Some brands, like Puma and Hoka, are known for their narrow-fitting shoes, while others, like Altra and Topo Athletic, tend to feature wide and roomy toe boxes. Because each model has a slightly different profile, we recommend purchasing shoes from a store where you can try them on first or from a website with a good return policy. Several running shoe brands offer a 30- to 90-day trial period and free returns. Many online retailers encourage buying shoes in a bracket of your usual size, one size up, and one size down. After you try them on, you can easily return the options that didn't hit that Goldilocks mark.
Tips for Trying On
Try shoes on at the same time of day you plan to run (if possible), and wear your favorite running socks. Take them for a quick spin. Always try on both shoes (most people's feet are not the same size). Try on a size larger and smaller than your usual size. Try out a wider or narrower width to see how it feels. Over time, you'll dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.
If your runs will frequently take you off the pavement or track, consider getting a trail running shoe instead. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Where Will You Run?
Where you run, and the surfaces you'll encounter, should influence the kinds of shoes you consider. Are you sticking to the pavement? Venturing into the mountains on rocky paths? Spending a lot of time on the treadmill? If your running plan involves pavement, gravel bike paths, dirt roads, or a treadmill, a pair of road shoes is the best choice. These shoes have features to help protect your body (insulate it) from hard surfaces mile after mile. If you plan to run on loose gravel, dirt, or slick surfaces, then your shoe's traction will be more important. If your habits lead you to round corners or encounter uneven terrain, lateral stability may influence your shoe choice. More cushion could be your top consideration if your route is primarily cement or asphalt.
Our test teams make recommendations based on gait, gender, foot morphology, and running goals; however, ultimately, you should choose a shoe that feels comfortable to you. Credit: Ally Arcuri
When to Consider Trail Shoes
If you plan to run off-road, on uneven, rocky, or steep terrain, trail shoes are likely a better choice. Trail running shoes have a more protective build, making them better suited for technical and rocky trails. Aggressive tread provides greater traction, while features like rock plates help protect your feet from underfoot hazards. Denser midsole foam and lower stack heights also help keep you grounded and stable on uneven terrain.
Max-cushioning shoes can be a joint-saver over long miles on hard pavement - though you often pay for it in speed and weight. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How Far and How Often?
Are you going for a 20-minute jog around the neighborhood or logging lots of miles training for a marathon? Do you plan to run multiple times a week, or are you a weekend warrior? Finally, assess the types of runs you'll be doing. Are you running mostly easy, feel-good paces? Are you tackling HIIT-style workouts? Do your long runs have chunks of marathon-paced efforts?
From road to trail to lab, we test each shoe in various situations to get a complete picture of performance.
Running shoes are designed to help you accomplish a specific task. Some are designed to keep you incredibly comfortable on long efforts, while others are designed to be fast at the expense of comfort. If you plan to use a shoe for jogging and easy running, you'll likely care more about comfort-focused features. If you plan to use the shoe for faster efforts and workouts, you'll probably want a shoe with higher responsiveness and lower weight.
We cut each shoe in half to measure stack height and examine inner materials. Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you plan to log many miles or run frequently, cushioning might be an important factor as it helps protect your legs and joints from fatigue and impact. Stack height refers to the thickness of the cushioning in a shoe. It can play a big part in how the shoe feels underfoot. While it doesn't strictly correspond to comfort or cushiness, it is a good place to start when narrowing down your options. Taller stack heights typically offer a more insulated ride, while lower heights provide greater sensitivity and improved ground feel.
A moderate stack height (under ~40 mm) is typically considered a daily trainer, while those with a higher stack height are considered max-cushioning. There are also minimalist or barefoot shoes, which have as low as 3 mm of height. While stack height can tell you a lot about a shoe, it isn't the whole picture.
Certain types of midsole plates are designed to be springy and add propulsion, while others add stability or protection. Credit: Abriah Wofford
We often refer to shoes as bouncy, resilient, plush, soft, or firm. That's because the foam that makes up the midsole has a huge effect on how a shoe feels and performs. The specific formula of a foam plays a much larger role in how a shoe feels than the stack height alone. For example, a maximally cushioned shoe with over 45 mm of stack height won't necessarily feel pillowy underfoot. It may feel firm thanks to foam that compresses little or has low energy return, also known as resilience. Similarly, a lower stack shoe can feel both pillowy and bouncy if it has a highly compressible and resilient foam.
The Clifton Hoka has a significant amount of cushion at its highest point in the heel. Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you're looking for a shoe to run at various paces, you'll probably want one with good resilience. If you want a higher stack height but don't want to feel like you're running on clouds, look for shoes with a firmer or less compressible midsole foam. If you value flexibility, you'll probably want a lower stack height, as shoes with higher stacks tend to be stiffer.
Each shoe has its own rocker angle designed to meet different goals. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Shoe Design Considerations
Depending on your running style and gait, you may want to consider different design and geometry factors when selecting your running shoes. Some shoes are better for those whose stride falls heel-first vs. forefoot-first. Factors such as a heel-to-toe drop, rocker angle, midsole design, or lateral support may help you feel more comfortable while running or enhance your biomechanics and efficiency.
We cut all of the running shoes in half for a lab-tested analysis of their design and construction, including measurements of almost every component. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Support and stability differ from shoe to shoe and are influenced by geometry, base width, foam density, and sometimes added internal stability structures. You'll often see shoes categorized as 'neutral' or 'stability' shoes; we tested both.
Some shoes have an extra stable base that can help you feel more confident and supported on your runs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Most runners will be perfectly content with a neutral shoe, but not everyone. We recommend trying on various shoes with varying levels of stability. The best shoe for you is the one you find most comfortable and can run in confidently.
With so many running shoes to choose from, the potential contenders are vast. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Other Notable Running Shoes
We're constantly testing new running shoes. Every runner, every gait, every stride, and every foot is different. Here are some compelling contenders, including impressive award winners and high-ranking competitors we love that could fill your needs better than those listed above.
Light, springy, and comfortable, the Adizero Evo SL is a shoe that makes high-mileage training even more fun. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Women's Shoes
Brooks Glycerin 23 — was a favorite shoe during testing thanks to its versatile nature that can easily handle everyday runs with a comfort-focused feel.
New Balance 1080v15 — This cloud cushioned shoe is an award winner for best impact cushioning, providing a soft place to land that isn't too squishy. If you need a great recovery shoe from harder efforts or simply love a shoe that absorbs more impact, the 1080v15 is one to consider.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 — This impressive tempo shoe is perfect for variable speeds, making it an impressive option for those seeking to train for race performance or simply love not feeling bogged down by a slower or heavier shoe.
Adidas Adizero Evo SL for women — With excellent cushioning and energy return, this lightweight and affordable shoe is comfortable and propulsive enough for uptempo training all the way through race day.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 — A traditional stability shoe with firm but comfortable cushioning and GuideRails support. Heavy, but reliable for runners who need structured guidance through their stride.
Hoka Clifton 10 — If you're a Clifton or Hoka lover, this new version is a pleasing daily trainer that keeps the things you love with a slightly bouncier feel.
The Vaporfly is an intriguing shoe designed for race readiness and training, but we weren't that impressed with the overall design and feel compared to the competition. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Men's Shoes
Hoka Mach 7 — The New Mach gives us joy for being impressively lightweight and versatile. While it might not be the best for ultralong distances, it more than makes up for it with its excellent handling of variable paces.
New Balance 1080v15 — This comfort-focused, plush-cushioned shoe is perfect for easy and long runs, thanks to its max cushion that is both supportive and protective without feeling sluggish.
Adidas Adizero Evo SL for men — One of our highest-scoring shoes overall. Impressive cushioning with explosive energy return. An excellent choice for race training or as a versatile daily shoe.
Hoka Clifton 10 for men — A long-time Hoka favorite. The Clifton 10 is a reliable daily trainer with a smooth ride. If you've enjoyed previous Cliftons, you'll feel at home here.
Nike Vaporfly 4 for men — One of the lightest and most explosive racing shoes available. Getting the most out of it takes some practice, but on race day it delivers.
The Bondi 9 is best for relaxed running. If you're used to lighter shoes, the Bondi can feel a little clunky, even though it isn't really that heavy. Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Conclusion
Running is a centuries-old practice that has many mental and physical health benefits. Finding a great shoe to help you get started or push through your next milestone is key to building a lasting habit. Whether you're just starting out or have worn through your fair share of shoes, there's something for you in our lineup.
—Ally Arcuri, Matthew Richardson, and Nathaniel Bailey
