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We ran hundreds of miles in 20 pairs of popular women's running shoes to help you find the perfect pair to meet your running and fitness goals.
With so many options to choose from, we are confident that we can help you find the right road running shoe for your budget and needs.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated January 9, 2026
Lacing up the right pair of running shoes can shift you from the noise of everyday life into a calm, centered rhythm where it's just you, your stride, and the open road.
Since 2014, our women's running team has tested more than 300 road-running models, logging thousands of miles, on tracks, long city routes, and sometimes even trails, and dissecting each shoe to understand exactly how it performs, feels, and holds up to the demands of daily wear.
The shoe that we love and recommend the most for the widest variety of runners is the Asics Novablast 5. This shoe delivers an impressive blend of max cushioning, springy propulsion, and lightweight comfort at a fairly reasonable price. If you're new to running and want a no-fuss, beginner-friendly option, the straightforward simplicity of the Saucony Ride 18 is an excellent pick.
To run better on a budget, our first recommendation is the lightweight and versatile Hoka Mach 6. The Mach 6 is suitable for most running situations and is available on the lower end of the budget spectrum.
If you're new to running, many of the walking shoes we've tested could be potential options for picking up the pace into casual jogging or running. We've also tested plenty of other running gear to help you reach your fitness goals.
Editor's Note: Our December 2025 update introduces a new approach to testing and ranking women's running shoes, focusing on the perspectives of beginners, casual runners, weekend warriors, and others.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight: 7.3 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Novablast 5 delivers a reliable, true-to-size fit and an impressively versatile experience that shines amid an ocean of daily trainers. Asics has pulled off an excellent balance here, combining the soft, impact-absorbing feel of a max-cushioned shoe with a lively midsole rebound and a more assertive rocker shape, making it a strong match for almost any running style. While the high stack height gives the shoe a bold look, its lightweight build keeps it from ever feeling bulky or unstable. If you like to mix up your paces on your runs, the Novablast 5 is a strong contender to consider.
Like many road-focused shoes, the Asics Novablast 5 doesn't offer the strongest traction on slick or wintery surfaces; however, the updated outsole is a slight improvement over past versions. Our tester said, “The Novablast wouldn't be my favorite shoe for damp road running.” Its limitations on wet roads mean it's not ideal for trail crossover. Still, its energetic midsole and smooth, rockered geometry make it an extremely comfortable choice for any dry-road run. Runners who prefer a lower-to-the-ground feel might find the Novablast 5's rear height (40 mm) to be too high and should instead seek a slightly lower option. The Saucony Ride 18 is both a lower stack and a more reasonable heel-toe drop. Overall, we think the Novablast is good for daily runs by regular runners with a few miles under their belt.
The comfort, cushion, breathability, and versatility make it one of our top recommendations for runners seeking a single road running shoe to tackle life in. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight: 7.5 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Saucony Ride 18 is a dependable daily trainer that combines comfort, versatility, and reliability, making it an excellent choice for newer runners who aren't yet sure which road shoe suits them best. Its midsole provides plush yet stable cushioning that absorbs impact without feeling soft or unstable, supporting everything from easy jogs to longer runs. The engineered mesh upper wraps the foot snugly, while details like a plush tongue and padded heel collar enhance fit and security during motion. Stability comes naturally, thanks to a broad base and well-structured upper, providing runners with a confident, supportive feel without relying on intrusive guidance technology. Combined with solid, road-ready traction, these features make it a strong option for beginners and more experienced runners looking for a reliable, everyday trainer.
Even a straightforward, approachable trainer like the Saucony Ride 18 has some traits that won't suit everyone. The upper, while comfortable, can feel slightly tight for some, creating a restricted sensation. A wide version is available, which slightly alleviates this as an issue. The Asics Novablast 5 has a roomier design with less feeling of restriction. The Ride's classic, uncomplicated design is part of its appeal, but it may feel too traditional for those seeking cutting-edge innovation or flashy aesthetics in their road running gear. Our tester says, “The Ride 18 is a dependable, comfortable shoe that, much like the Honda Civic, provides reliability and familiarity over flashier, less consistent choices.” For runners who value a simple, user-friendly daily ride, the Ride 18 remains a solid and reassuring choice.
The Saucony Ride is a comfortable shoe with reliable performance across differing gait styles, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out on their running journey. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm | Weight: 6.3 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Hoka Mach 6 is an outstanding daily trainer that feels lightweight, breathable, and comfortably snug, giving a fit that seems tailored to the foot, all for an affordable price. Its true strength lies in its balanced performance across the key elements of a strong running shoe. It delivers enough energy return for faster workouts while the midsole absorbs impact on long pavement miles. For versatility on a budget, the lightweight Mach 6 is definitely a shoe we recommend. Our tester said, “I love how easy this shoe transitions from one activity to another so there is no need to pack a different pair for grocery getting or dog walking.”
The Mach 6's versatility is a major plus, though it may not satisfy runners seeking extra-specialized features or added stability. Its cushioning is firmer than that of maximal shoes, and it lacks extra lateral support for runners who favor a more stable ride. A more stable shoe can be found in options like the Asics Gel-Kayano. Additionally, the midfoot has a characteristic Hoka taper, narrowing slightly more than some other models. Still, the Mach 6 delivers comfortable miles run after run, and most runners will likely appreciate its fit, feel, wide-ranging performance, and approachable price point.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight: 8.1 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 stands out as a daily trainer focused on comfort and dependable stability, specifically designed for overpronators, though runners of all kinds might enjoy the comfort that this shoe offers. Its underfoot design offers a cushioned landing that still keeps runners connected to the road. The broad base and Asics' 4D Guidance system provide consistent lateral support mile after mile, while the engineered mesh upper adapts comfortably to the foot. On wet or mixed surfaces, the mixed rubber outsole ensures traction and durability, making the Kayano 32 a reliable companion for a variety of daily training runs. Runners seeking an easy-to-wear stability shoe will find it performs admirably. Our tester said, “If stability is what you need, the Gel-Kayano provides enough for most runners without feeling overdone or stiff.”
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 isn't geared toward runners seeking maximum speed or a springy ride. Its secure midfoot emphasizes stability over propulsion, producing a more muted energy return. At 8.08 ounces, it is slightly heavier than many neutral trainers, and the thicker mesh upper can feel warm during hot-weather runs. While its weight and firmer cushioning reinforce its role as a supportive daily workhorse, they also limit its appeal for those chasing a fast, lively feel. The Asics Novablast 5 could be a better choice if you need less structure and crave more responsiveness in a lighter feeling shoe. However, runners looking for a blend of comfort and stability will be very satisfied with the updated Gel-Kayano 32.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm | Weight: 7.7 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 easily stands out as one of the best maximally-cushioned road running shoes for women. Featuring a 37 mm stack (with only a 6 mm drop) and well-balanced comfort throughout, this dependable trainer strikes a delicate balance between plush cushioning and stability, a challenging feat to achieve. While this shoe isn't designed for top speeds, its slightly energetic feel is superior to most max-cushioned shoes. Our tester stated, “ It is a joy to roll through long, comfortable miles and wear daily, while getting excellent joint protection and a soft, enjoyable road experience.”
While the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 excels at comfort, it doesn't deliver the high-energy rebound of race-focused models. Its generous rocker encourages effortless mileage, but it isn't built for speed work. The Adidas Adizero Evo SL could be a better choice, looking to train for races or perhaps just picking up the pace on daily runs. The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is also a great uptempo shoe. Runners seeking a daily trainer with generous cushioning, a secure fit, and a soft, enjoyable underfoot feel will find this latest New Balance update a standout choice.
The details of the Fresh Foam 1080v14 come together to make it a plush road runner that offers plenty of support, structure, and breathability. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm | Weight: 6.1 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is one of the bounciest and most fun uptempo training shoes we've tested. Weighing just over six ounces, it feels light and lively without ever feeling harsh or stripped down underfoot. The midsole blends two foam types for a springy, energetic ride that makes picking up the pace comfortable and easy. The updated upper provides a secure, irritation-free fit, with a properly sized tongue and a plush but not bulky heel collar. Both the ride and price make the Rebel v5 approachable, perfect for runners who want to try faster workouts without jumping straight into a high-end racing shoe.
There are a few key points to consider when evaluating the FuelCell Rebel v5. The outsole performs well on dry pavement and tracks, but it can struggle on wet or uneven surfaces, so rainy runs may feel a bit slippery. While it's designed for tempo workouts, it's not a full-on racing shoe, so runners seeking maximum speed may find it less exciting. Conversely, newer runners seeking a sturdier daily trainer might not like the lightweight approach taken by the Rebel v5. The fit of this shoe feels a bit short in the toe box, so we recommend trying it on before buying if possible. Overall, the forgiving design and comfortable fit make this a very approachable choice for runners looking to explore quicker paces.
Runners who want the springy and bounce of a speed-focused shoe in an approachable package should check out the well-updated New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm | Weight: 4.4 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is a true racing machine, delivering elite performance in an exceptionally lightweight package. At just 4.44 ounces (women's size 6.5), it feels nearly weightless, helping runners maximize stride efficiency and forward propulsion. Its dual-foam midsole offers a mix of soft landings and springy rebounds, powering each step with ease. The shoe's geometry is tailored for runners who gain speed by lengthening their stride, making it a strong fit for midfoot to forefoot strikers aiming for race-pace performance.
Despite its race-day strengths, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo isn't ideal for every runner or situation. Its higher price point makes it an investment best reserved for those focused on serious performance gains. The soft midsole foam, while lively at speed, can feel a little wobbly at slower paces, especially in the heel. The minimalist outsole works well on dry roads but can feel slick on wet surfaces or grass, so caution is needed. With its aggressive, performance-focused design, it's less suited for casual runs or beginners, but runners ready to push hard will enjoy the liveliness and responsiveness this shoe delivers.
The Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is built for racing. Runners who want to hit race paces in a specially-designed shoe should consider this high-octane option from Asics. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Product Comparison Table
Finding the right road running shoes for your needs and budget can feel like an overwhelming task in a market saturated with options. We teased out the details to help you find a shoe that will seamlessly serve your needs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How We Tested
Over the last decade, our running experts have tested hundreds of pairs of popular road shoes. We test every pair for several months and over at least 30 miles of running on diverse terrains, including pavement, beaches, tracks, and dirt trails. We also cut them open to measure and inspect their materials.
Comfort and Fit (45% of overall score weighting)
Cushioning (30% weighting)
Breathability (15% weighting)
Traction (10% weighting)
What About Stack Height?
There is no true industry standard for measuring the stack height of running shoes. Each company can choose how to take these measurements without disclosing their methods — so we take our own standardized stack measurements based on the World Athletics requirements. We cut each shoe in half and take standardized measurements to give you an accurate comparison.
Why Trust GearLab
Our lead road running tester is exercise specialist, Ally Arcuri. She is an avid runner, an accomplished ultramarathoner, a teacher, and a yoga instructor. When she isn't tackling middle-distance races, Ally and her dog run open roads, beaches, trails, and more. Her degree in kinesiology and years of working in physical therapy help guide her through the vast array of running gear.
Running biomechanics expert and consultant, Carrie Vickers also contributed to our test plan and advice on how to choose running shoes. Carrie is an accomplished runner, placing in US National, Olympic, and World events. She once held the record in the 2000-meter steeplechase.
To us, running means finding and deepening the connection between our bodies and our minds. The right shoes can make all of the difference in pursuing the depths of this connection.
Analysis and Test Results
Whether you're training for a marathon or walking your dog, picking the right shoe can be challenging. We tested each pair for cushioning, comfort, traction, and more to help you find the right fit for your stride, foot, and budget.
Trail Running Shoes
If you are more interested in rocky trails and heading off the beaten path, our trail running shoe review will have better options for you, many of which beautifully crossover to road running.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The best value going somewhat depends on your goals and the level of runner you are. Newbies can find a very affordable shoe in the Saucony Ride. With a lower list price than many competitors, it can often be found on sale for one of the lowest prices for a current version shoe. Our best value winner is the Hoka Mach 6. This great all-around shoe can be your daily running partner or your favorite errand runner without missing a beat or breaking the bank. With a comparable price to the Hoka, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is a max-cushioned shoe that excels at switching tempos and prepping for a race.
Many of the most popular road running shoes are highly versatile, meaning that they can be worn for running, working out, and errands. The way we see it, the more applications a running shoe has, the better its value. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit can work together to make or break your running experience. Nothing cramps your style more than trying to run (something already inherently challenging) in a shoe that is ill-suited to your body or your running style. While comfort and fit are generally subjective, breaking down the components of each can help guide you toward the right choice for your anatomy, running mechanics, and preferences.
When searching for a comfortable running shoe, consider the following factors: how the upper materials and construction feel on your foot, whether the toe box allows for natural toe splay, and how securely the midfoot locks in without squeezing. Pay attention to the heel collar and how well it holds you in place, as well as the tongue's padding and stability during movement. Flexibility, stiffness, and the overall geometry of the shoe can also influence how smoothly your stride flows. Finally, factors like arch support, footbed shape, weight, and overall length and width proportions all play a major role in how comfortably the shoe moves with you mile after mile. Buying from retailers that allow returns can help you find the magical fit. Some even encourage buying multiple sizes for comparison with quick and easy returns.
The Novablast 5 is a comfortable shoe for most. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Asics Novablast 5 is one of the most comfortable runners we've tried. It seamlessly blends structure and comfort, with an undercarriage that provides moderate support without inhibiting comfort.
The Gel-Kayano combines effective stability features with exceptionally soft, well-crafted cushioning, offering a supportive yet comfortable ride. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Similarly, the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is also super comfy. It is a true stability shoe with embedded structures to help smooth out strides. Despite having additional support elements, the Gel-Kayano is one of the softest, most tastefully crafted comfort shoes in the bunch. Stability running shoes are generally designed for runners who experience overpronation, meaning their feet roll inward more than average during each step. These shoes offer added support and structure to help guide the foot into a more efficient, aligned stride. Even runners who don't overpronate can find success in this style of shoe, especially if running is relatively new to their bodies.
The Saucony Ride 18 is a comfortable shoe with a more structured design. Credit: Ally Arcuri
If you aren't exactly sure what kind of fit or feel you prefer, the Saucony Ride 18 is a solid, comfortable option. Built to feel traditional with plenty of softness and cushion where you need it most, the Ride is our top recommendation for new runners or those endeavoring to reignite their running fervor.
Heel Toe Drop
Heel-to-toe drop is an important factor to acknowledge, as it can influence comfort, joint loading, and how a shoe feels on the body over time. While it doesn't determine how cushioned a shoe is, drop affects posture and where stress is absorbed, which can be important for runners who are recovering from injuries or trying to protect their knees and hips. Rather than viewing drop as good or bad, it's best to think of it as a personal preference tied to anatomy, gait, and training history. Placing these figures side by side can help you make informed choices about what might feel best and support your body in the long term. In general, studies show that the steeper or more significant the drop, the more pressure there is on knees and hips. However, more drop can benefit heel strikers.
The Altra shoes in this review do not appear on this list as they have a zero heel-to-toe drop.
The Altra Escalante 4 is a zero-drop, minimalist shoe that encourages a natural midfoot stride and strengthens lower-leg muscles, appealing to runners who enjoy a minimal feel and are willing to transition gradually. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Altra Escalante 4 is a minimalist shoe that scored the lowest for comfort, though its score doesn't tell the whole story. Designed to feel minimal and almost invisible underfoot, the Escalante places the heel of the foot on the same plane as the forefoot. This unique design is beloved by some runners and despised by others. Zero-drop running shoes have an equal amount of cushioning under the heel and forefoot, encouraging a more natural, midfoot-oriented stride. They can be a good fit for runners who prefer a minimalist feel or want to strengthen lower-leg muscles, but they work best for those who transition gradually to avoid strain. While not a top scorer in this metric, runners who are seeking this balance of features will likely enjoy what the Escalante offers. The Brooks Ghost Max 3 can also feel uncomfortable to some runners as all that extra cushioning and structure can translate to a bulkier, less nimble ride. IN fact, it is one of the heaviest options in the group.
While comfortable for a racing shoe, the Metaspeed is not comfy enough for everyday runs. Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you like the idea of a speed shoe but feel ready to dive into something designed for racing, the Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is one of the most comfortable road racing shoes we've had the pleasure of testing. This shoe is designed for a specific purpose and isn't intended for comfortable daily wear. It isn't particularly comfortable compared to the competition. Outfitted with a carbon plate and an ultra-minimal upper, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is comfortable and well-fitting for a race shoe, but isn't a shoe we recommend for a wide breadth of road running situations.
Shoes like the Hoka Arahi offer lightweight cushion that is functional for runners who want to tackle mellow mileage in relative ease. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Cushioning
When evaluating underfoot cushioning, we look for a balance between softness, support, and enough protection to absorb impact without making the shoe feel unstable or sluggish. The right amount and type of cushioning depends on your running style, mileage, and personal preferences. Softer foams can ease joint impact on longer runs, firmer setups can offer stability and efficiency, and more responsive designs help with quicker turnover. Considering how you land, how far you typically run, and what feels comfortable over time can help guide you toward the cushioning profile that best supports your body and goals.
Altra Torin 8Hoka Bondi 9
Compare inside view of cushion stack between shoe models.
One of the standout shoes in the cushioning metric is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14. Not only does it stand at a protective 37 mm off the ground in the heel, but it also adds a certain element of structure to its underfoot foam. The balance between strength and pillowy softness is difficult to achieve, and since New Balance did it so well with this shoe's release, it is worthy of the praise we are singing.
Shoes like the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 deliver generous underfoot cushioning that helps soften impact and reduce stress on your joints. Credit: Matt Lighthart
For a softer, higher-take (40 mm in the heel) on cushioning, the maximally cushioned Asics Novablast 5 is a bouncy, fun-feeling shoe with high-integrity, durable cushioning. While stable, it doesn't feel quite as structured as some of the true stability shoes on the market. Similarly, the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 is another 40 mm powerhouse. With loads of underfoot cushion, the Nimbus feels like one of the best at protecting joints. Its upper is stretchy and flexible, which adds comfort but not stability.
The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 offers 40 mm of plush cushioning that protects joints exceptionally well, though its stretchy, flexible upper adds comfort without adding extra stability. Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you like the idea of a high stack shoe but need something with inherent stability and a bounce less reminiscent of a pillow, a shoe like the Hoka Bondi 9 is a great option. Highly regarded as a strong walking shoe, the Bondi has an imperceptible frame for support that balances out its 37 mm of underfoot cushioning.
More doesn't always mean better when it comes to cushion, though. More modest shoes like the Saucony Ride 18 offer the same amount of joint protection and comfort in a lower-feeling package. This lighter, less bulky setup can feel more responsive and agile, making it ideal for runners who value ground feedback, prefer faster paces, or simply don't enjoy the sensation of sinking into thick foam.
The soft underfoot cushion of the Glycerin provides a balance between comfort, smooth transitions, and ultimate stride control. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The minimal Altra Escalante 4 scored the worst for cushioning. Designed to be minimal, it simply doesn't offer as much cushion by design. For those seeking a less cushioned feel with more ground connection, this is a plus, not a minus. The Nike Pegasus 41 disappointed us in its forefoot cushioning. While the Pegasus is a fairly well-rounded shoe in terms of versatility, the cushioning beneath the forefoot, which is 21 mm high to the heel's 34 mm, feels noticeably scant. While some runners might appreciate the feeling of this ride, it left us wanting a bit more underfoot. The Brooks Ghost 17 and the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 also scored near the bottom, tying with the Pegasus 41.
The breathability of a road running shoe refers to how well trapped heat can circulate through the shoe as you run. Shoes like the Fresh Foam X 1080v14 do a good job of allowing airflow without sacrificing soft comfort. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Breathability
When assessing breathability, we look for uppers that allow sufficient airflow to keep your feet comfortably cool without compromising structure or support. Materials like engineered mesh, knit designs, and strategically placed ventilation zones help prevent overheating and moisture buildup, which can reduce discomfort, rubbing, and the risk of blisters on longer or warmer runs. Considering your typical running climate, the warmth of your feet, and whether you prefer a softer or more structured upper, can help guide you toward the level of breathability that best matches your needs.
If your running routine takes you across scalding terrain, breathability is key for comfort. If your legs steer you through sidewalks coated with the occasional coating of snow, a more thickly woven shoe might be best. If most of your runs take place in climate-controlled gyms or studios, breathability won't be quite as big a consideration for you.
The thin mesh upper of the New Balance Rebel v5 offers excellent ventilation for runners who value serious airflow. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL, and the Hoka Mach 6 are all designed to feel lightweight and fresh, allowing air to flow freely through the uppers to help keep feet cool during running. These models utilize thin, breathable materials that prevent heat from building up, even as the miles accumulate. For runners who prefer airy, low-profile shoes that remain comfortable in warmer conditions, these three stand out as reliable and well-ventilated options.
Designed to be incredibly lightweight, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo features very obvious holes across its upper. Not only does this design allow the shoe to be one of the lightest on the market, but it keeps air moving freely as your run heats up. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Shoes designed to be lightweight, such as the profoundly weightless Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo (4.44 ounces per women's size 6.5), often shed upper weight, thereby increasing breathability. Designs like the Metaspeed Tokyo feature visible holes across its very perforated upper.
The Bondi 9 is not the most breathable, but it feels more secure. Credit: Natalie Kafader
In contrast, shoes like the Hoka Bondi 9, designed to feel sturdy underfoot, tend to offer the least breathability, giving it the lowest score for breathability. This is, in part, because a stronger upper weave can make a shoe feel more secure. In the case of the Bondi, runners who like all of the elements shouldn't be put off by the lower breathability score. Other shoes, like the Nike Pegasus 41 and the Hoka Arahi 8, come in slightly higher than the Bondi, but not by much. These shoes are designed to be versatile, so the thickness of their upper weaves and subsequent breathability can feel like a dealbreaker.
Shoes that emphasize supportive structures, like the Brooks Ghost Max 3, typically provide reliable traction to help boost running confidence. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Traction
When evaluating traction, we consider how well a shoe grips the running surface, which is crucial for maintaining stability, preventing slips, and supporting efficient strides. Key factors include the rubber compound, outsole pattern, and depth of grooves, all of which influence grip on wet, dry, or uneven terrain. Thinking about where and how you typically run, roads, trails, or mixed surfaces, can help you choose a shoe with the right balance of grip, durability, and flexibility to keep each step confident and secure. If you think trails are more your style, there are plenty of trail running shoes that could be a better choice.
Rubber outsoles, like the one on the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14, offer reliable traction thanks to their durable compounds and varied tread shapes. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The shoes offering the best traction include the Saucony Ride 18 and the Hoka Bondi 9. The Saucony Ride 18 relies on a responsive rubber compound that adapts well to wet pavement and light gravel, helping the shoe maintain confident footing in mixed conditions. By reinforcing only the highest-wear areas, the Ride preserves durability and grip without added bulk, creating a stable, lively feel over long training blocks. In the same vein, the Hoka Bondi 9 delivers impressively reliable traction thanks to its broad rubber coverage and sturdy outsole pattern, providing a steady, grounded feel even on slick or uneven road surfaces.
Despite its beautiful combination of features, the Novablast's traction is only moderate, making it less ideal for runners who encounter ice or lots of water during their runs. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14, Altra Torin 8, and the Brooks Glycerin 22 come in close behind them. The Fresh Foam uses a durable rubber outsole with targeted grip zones that keep each step controlled and confident. Its updated tread pattern offers consistent traction on different road surfaces, giving runners a secure, worry-free ride.
Shoes built for stability, like the Hoka Bondi 9, tend to feature wider outsoles with strong traction, underscoring their confidence-boosting vibes. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Lighter shoes, such as the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, often have less robust traction but feel more responsive underfoot. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize the features you want before selecting your ideal pair. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 intentionally sheds weight by keeping its outsole minimal. Unfortunately, this translates to less strength underfoot. The same situation applies to the Hoka Mach 6. Lighter than most and ready to tackle all kinds of paces, the outsole of the Mach doesn't hold up quite as well on thick surfaces. While the Asics Novablast 5 is a standout shoe in many ways, its traction is a relatively weak spot when it comes to wet or otherwise slick surfaces.
Specialty shoes, such as the Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo, are designed to be lightweight and minimal, with minimalization also applied to their outsoles. In attempts to shed weight, manufacturers will often place rubber texturizing on high-wear areas, but forgo full outsole tread. While this application is super functional for racing and speed shoes, it doesn't offer the versatility or underfoot security that daily runners might need. As a result, Sky Tokyo is the lowest scoring for traction.
The Asics Superblast 2. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Mizuno Neo Vista women's running shoes. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Nike Vomero 18 is a high-cushioned running shoe. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The On Cloudsurfer 2 women's running shoe didn't perform well enough to make our final list of contenders. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Other Notable Women's Road Running Shoes
We've tested dozens of other road shoes. Here are some other compelling options that didn't win awards or didn't make the cut:
Asics Superblast 2 — This high-stack model is the answer for runners who want both serious cushioning and serious speed. We love it for everything from training to racing to recovery, but it is expensive.
Mizuno Neo Vista — One of the thickest stacks on a shoe we've ever seen provides serious bounce and impressive cushioning that heel-strikers will love on daily runs.
Nike Vomero 18 — Despite its above-average weight, it's well-balanced and has durable cushioning that makes it a workhorse over long distances and at moderate speeds.
On Cloudsurfer 2 — A continually popular model from a popular brand, this updated version of the Cloudsurfer works well as a limited-cushioning walking shoe or gym shoe, and can handle occasional short runs.
Puma Deviate Nitro 3 — With solid all-around performance, this carbon-plated shoe is comfortable and versatile, standing out for its notably excellent traction on wet surfaces and around tight corners.
Saucony Tempus 2 — This stability-focused shoe doesn't feel like a typical stability shoe, keeping solid focus on energy return. It's a great option for those who only need some stability but still want to run fast. This option is currently on sale for almost half off. It could be a new addition is coming out, so if it appeals to you, it can be a great time to get a screaming deal.
Altra Vanish Tempo — A niche shoe that feels natural during speed training, but lacks the zero-drop wide-foot feeling that Altra fans have come to love.
Hoka Skyward X — Unique, with a propulsive carbon plate and exceptional comfort. As much as we adore its cushion, it's extremely heavy and costly; there are highly comfortable shoes for far cheaper.
Nike Pegasus Plus — A popular trainer, though its firm underfoot feel, narrow toebox, and limited stability make it a better gym shoe than a true running shoe.
The running shoe market is full of wonderful options, which means that once you dial in what you are seeking, you'll be able to find a shoe that brings you joy. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
The running shoe world is saturated with competitors and full of specialized lingo and misleading marketing. Finding the right shoe for your fitness goals can be a daunting task. We've put in the miles with comparison testing to bring you the details you need to make the right decision for your running goals. Whether you're a hesitant beginner or an intrepid, seasoned adventurer, there is something here for you.
