Best Running Shoes

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Running shoes are a must-have for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, offering the support, cushioning, and stability needed to handle the repetitive impact of running. Whether you’re a casual jogger or training for a marathon, the right shoes can prevent injuries and make running more comfortable. But not all running shoes are the same—some are designed for road running, while others are built for trails, with factors like arch support, heel-to-toe drop, and midsole cushioning playing a big role in performance. We tested dozens of running shoes to find the best options for different running styles, foot types, and budgets, helping you find the perfect fit.

  • UA Charged Assert 10

    10

    We think the UA Charged Assert 10 is a solid choice for runners seeking a comfortable and breathable shoe at a reasonable price.

    10

    We think the UA Charged Assert 10 is a solid choice for runners seeking a comfortable and breathable shoe at a reasonable price.

    Pros

    • Lightweight and breathable
    • Comfortable right out of the box
    • Good traction and support

    Cons

    • Runs slightly small
    • Limited color options
    • May not be durable enough for serious runners

    We recently took these shoes for a test run and were pleasantly surprised by their performance. The mesh upper kept our feet cool and dry, even during longer runs. We found the fit to be snug but not tight, though some may want to size up half a size for the best fit.

    The Charged Assert 10 offered good support for our arches and heels. We noticed the cushioning helped absorb impact, making our runs more comfortable. The rubber sole gave us good grip on different surfaces, from pavement to light trails.

    While these shoes worked well for our casual runs and daily wear, we’re not sure they’d hold up to intense training. The materials felt a bit lightweight for serious runners who put in high mileage. Still, for the price, we think they’re a great option for most people looking for a versatile running shoe.

  • ASICS Gel-Contend 8

    9.7

    We recommend the ASICS Gel-Contend 8 for runners seeking a comfortable and reliable everyday training shoe at a budget-friendly price.

    9.7

    We recommend the ASICS Gel-Contend 8 for runners seeking a comfortable and reliable everyday training shoe at a budget-friendly price.

    Pros

    • Cushioned ride with Gel technology
    • Breathable mesh upper
    • Wide size options available

    Cons

    • Firm midsole may not suit all runners
    • Delicate upper material
    • Limited color choices

    We put the ASICS Gel-Contend 8 through its paces on various runs. The shoe feels light on our feet, making it great for daily jogs. The mesh upper keeps our feet cool, even on warm days.

    The Gel cushioning in the heel works well. It soaks up impact when we land, giving us a smooth ride. We like the wide size options too. They’re perfect for runners who need more room in their shoes.

    One thing to watch out for is the upper material. It’s thin and can tear if snagged. The midsole is also on the firmer side. This might not be ideal for runners with knee issues or those who prefer a softer feel. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think the Gel-Contend 8 offers good value for its price.

  • Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

    9.5

    We highly recommend these supportive running shoes for their comfort, stability, and reliable performance.

    9.5

    We highly recommend these supportive running shoes for their comfort, stability, and reliable performance.

    Pros

    • Excellent support and stability
    • Soft, lightweight cushioning
    • Breathable engineered mesh upper

    Cons

    • May cause shin splints for some runners
    • Slightly heavier than other models
    • Limited color options

    We’ve put the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 through its paces, and we’re impressed with its performance. These shoes offer a perfect blend of comfort and support for runners who need extra stability. The GuideRails support system keeps our feet aligned, which we found helpful during longer runs.

    The DNA LOFT v2 cushioning in the midsole is a standout feature. It’s soft yet responsive, giving us a smooth ride mile after mile. We also like the engineered air mesh upper, which keeps our feet cool and dry even on hot days.

    Fit-wise, these shoes are true to size and offer a secure feel. The 3D Fit Print adds structure without bulk. While they’re not the lightest shoes we’ve tested, the trade-off in support is worth it for many runners. If you’re looking for a reliable, supportive running shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a solid choice.

  • Limited color options

    9.4

    We think these running shoes are a great choice for runners seeking comfort and durability at a reasonable price.

    9.4

    We think these running shoes are a great choice for runners seeking comfort and durability at a reasonable price.

    Pros

    • Breathable mesh upper
    • Responsive cushioning
    • Durable outsole

    Cons

    • Slightly narrow fit
    • Limited color options
    • Break-in period needed

    We tried out the Under Armour Charged Assert 9 running shoes and were impressed with their performance. The lightweight mesh upper kept our feet cool during long runs. We liked how the leather overlays added stability without weighing us down.

    The Charged Cushioning midsole gave us a nice bounce in our step. It felt responsive and helped absorb impact as we ran on different surfaces. The EVA sockliner added an extra layer of comfort that we noticed right away.

    We found the rubber outsole to be tough and grippy. It held up well on both roads and light trails. While the fit was a bit narrow for some of us, going up a half size solved the issue. These shoes needed a short break-in period, but once we put some miles on them, they felt great.

  • Brooks Glycerin 20

    9.3

    We think these shoes are a great pick for runners who want comfort and support on long runs.

    9.3

    We think these shoes are a great pick for runners who want comfort and support on long runs.

    Pros

    • Super comfy with lots of cushioning
    • Good for long distances without blisters
    • Breathable mesh upper

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to some other options
    • May feel too soft for speed work
    • Limited color choices

    We’ve put the Brooks Glycerin 20 through its paces, and we’re impressed. These shoes feel like clouds on your feet. The cushioning is thick and soft, perfect for those long training runs or marathon days.

    The mesh upper is airy and keeps your feet cool, even on hot days. We like how it hugs the foot without feeling tight. The laces stay tied, and the tongue doesn’t slide around.

    One thing to note is the price. These shoes cost more than some other running shoes. But we think the comfort is worth it, especially if you run a lot. They might not be the best for speed work, though. The soft cushioning that’s great for long runs can feel a bit squishy when you’re trying to go fast.

  • New Balance 410 V8 Trail Runners

    9.1

    We think these versatile trail shoes are a solid pick for runners who want to tackle both roads and trails.

    9.1

    We think these versatile trail shoes are a solid pick for runners who want to tackle both roads and trails.

    Pros

    • Grippy outsole for various terrains
    • Comfortable foam midsole
    • Durable upper construction

    Cons

    • May run small
    • Heel cushioning can flatten over time
    • Limited color options

    We took the New Balance 410 V8 Trail Running Shoes for a spin on different surfaces. The AT Tread outsole gave us good traction on both paved roads and dirt trails. We didn’t slip on loose gravel or wet grass.

    The BIO Foam midsole felt soft under our feet. It cushioned our steps nicely on longer runs. We liked how the shoes stayed comfy even after a few hours of wear.

    The upper part of the shoe seems built to last. The mix of mesh and overlays held up well during our tests. We didn’t see any tears or weak spots after several uses.

    One thing to note: these shoes might feel snug at first. We had to go up a half size for a good fit. The heel cushioning also felt less springy after a few weeks of regular use.

    New Balance 410 V8 Trail Running Shoe

  • Brooks Ghost Max

    9

    We think the Brooks Ghost Max is a solid choice for runners and walkers seeking maximum cushioning and a smooth ride.

    9

    We think the Brooks Ghost Max is a solid choice for runners and walkers seeking maximum cushioning and a smooth ride.

    Pros

    • Excellent cushioning for comfort
    • Stable and secure fit
    • Smooth heel-to-toe transitions

    Cons

    • May feel too firm for some runners
    • Slightly heavy at 2 pounds
    • Limited color options

    We tested the Brooks Ghost Max on various runs and walks. The standout feature is the DNA Loft v2 cushioning. It gave us a soft, protective feel underfoot without sacrificing stability. Our feet felt cradled and supported, even on longer runs.

    The GlideRoll Rocker technology caught our attention. It made our stride feel effortless and smooth. We noticed less fatigue in our legs after runs. The broad base of the shoe added to the stable feel, which we liked for both running and walking.

    Fit-wise, the Ghost Max accommodated different foot shapes well. The mesh upper was breathable and comfy. We found the sizing true, though wide-footed runners might want to go up a half size. While not the lightest shoe, the cushioning made up for the extra ounces. For runners and walkers seeking maximum comfort and protection, the Ghost Max delivers.

  • Adidas Racer TR23

    8.7

    We think the Adidas Racer TR23 is a solid choice for runners seeking comfort and style in their daily workouts.

    8.7

    We think the Adidas Racer TR23 is a solid choice for runners seeking comfort and style in their daily workouts.

    Pros

    • Snug, glove-like fit
    • Versatile for various activities
    • Attractive, understated design

    Cons

    • May run small for some users
    • Limited color options
    • Mesh upper might not be ideal for wet conditions

    We tested these sneakers on our daily runs and found them to be a great blend of comfort and performance. The Racer TR23 hugged our feet nicely, providing a secure feel without any pinching or rubbing.

    The lightweight mesh upper kept our feet cool during intense workouts. We appreciated how these shoes transitioned smoothly from running to other activities like gym sessions or casual wear.

    On the downside, we noticed they might feel a bit snug for those with wider feet. It’s worth considering sizing up if you’re between sizes. The color options are somewhat limited, which might disappoint those looking for bold choices.

  • Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

    8.7

    We think these shoes are a top choice for runners who need support and cushioning.

    8.7

    We think these shoes are a top choice for runners who need support and cushioning.

    Pros

    • Super comfortable right out of the box
    • Great stability for overpronation
    • Soft, smooth ride

    Cons

    • May feel heavy for some runners
    • Not waterproof
    • Pricier than some other options

    When we tried the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22, we were blown away by how comfy they felt from the first step. The DNA LOFT cushioning gives a soft, pillowy feel that made our feet happy even on long runs.

    We really liked the GuideRails support system. It kept our feet aligned without feeling stiff or bulky. This is great for runners who overpronate or need extra stability. The shoes felt secure and stable, even when we picked up the pace.

    The fit is true to size, and the toe box has enough room to wiggle our toes. We noticed the shoes felt a bit heavy compared to some lighter models we’ve tested. They’re not waterproof, so our feet got wet on rainy days. But for dry road runs, these shoes were a dream to wear.

  • PUMA Softride Carson

    8.6

    We recommend these sneakers for their comfort and style, but sizing can be tricky.

    8.6

    We recommend these sneakers for their comfort and style, but sizing can be tricky.

    Pros

    • Very comfortable cushioning
    • Lightweight design
    • Made with recycled materials

    Cons

    • Runs small
    • May be tight for wide feet
    • Break-in period needed

    When we slipped on the PUMA Softride Carson sneakers, we were impressed by how light they felt. The SOFTRIDE foam lived up to its name, providing cushy comfort that lasted all day. We appreciated the breathable upper, which kept our feet cool during long walks.

    We noticed these shoes run a bit small. Our usual size felt snug, especially for those of us with wider feet. After a few wears, they did start to feel better. If you’re between sizes or have wide feet, we suggest going up half a size.

    The speckled design caught our eye and gave these shoes a stylish edge. We liked that PUMA used recycled materials in the upper, making these a more eco-friendly choice. For the price, we think these sneakers offer good value, blending comfort and style for everyday wear.

Buying Guide

When shopping for running shoes, we recommend focusing on a few key factors. Comfort should be your top priority. Try on shoes later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen from activity.

Pay attention to the fit. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. The heel shouldn’t slip when you walk or run.

Consider your foot type and running style. Some shoes offer more stability for flat feet, while others provide cushioning for high arches.

Here’s a quick checklist of features to look for:

  • Breathable upper material
  • Cushioned midsole
  • Durable outsole
  • Flexible forefoot
  • Heel support

We suggest trying on several pairs and walking or jogging around the store. Many shops have treadmills for testing shoes.

Don’t forget about your usual running conditions. Trail shoes have more grip for uneven terrain, while road shoes are lighter for pavement.

Lastly, remember that expensive doesn’t always mean better. Focus on finding shoes that feel great and match your needs rather than the price tag or brand name.