Every runner knows what he or she wants from the best shoes for running. After extensive research, we discovered that every runner needs a well-cushioned, supportive, lightweight, and comfortable fit.
When running, your comfort is more important than the miles you will cover with the shoes. There are many running shoes on the market, but not all of them are made equal.
To help you find the best running shoes to provide you with the fascinating running experience you need, we have reviewed some of the best men and women running shoes on the market.
Read on to see our top 9 picks as well as a comprehensive guide on how to pick the best option to suit your style and needs.
Our Best Running Shoes Are:
Product | Details | ||
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1. Under Armour Men’s Charged Asserts 8 Running Shoe | Top Pick |
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2. Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe |
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3. Brooks Men’s Ghost 12 Running Shoe |
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4. MAIITRIP Men’s Running Shoes Sport Athletic Sneakers |
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5. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes |
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6. ASICS Women’s Gel Pulse 11 Running Shoes |
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7. Adidas Women’s Edge Lux 3 Running Shoe |
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8. Nike Women Revolution 5 Running Shoe |
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9. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi Trail V1 Running Shoe |
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1. Under Armour Men’s Charged Asserts 8 Running Shoe — Best Rated Running Shoes
The Under Armour Men’s Charged Asset 8 Running shoe is not only one of the best shoes for running out there, but it is also one of the most cost-effective options. This is a great pair of running shoes that you can use to run for hours and cover long distances without any issue.
The shoe comes at a pocket-friendly rate, which means you do not have to break a bank to purchase it. It is also stylish and it is available in 20 different colors, allowing you to choose the color that best suits your style.
This shoe is made with 84 percent polyester and 16 percent elastane, and these materials contribute to its durability. The shoe is designed to serve you for years, and it also comes with a synthetic sole that provides great grip and stability.
If you need a balance of cushioning and flexibility, this is one of the best shoes to consider. The shoe is flexible, and the additional cushioning helps to keep your feet well-balanced and comfortable as you run. It comes with a mesh upper with a lightweight design.
The upper is completely breathable and it allows for the constant flow of air to keep your feet cool and dry. It comes with an EVA sock liner that provides your feet with a soft and comfortable feel. The shoe is also highly responsive, thanks to its charged cushioning midsole, which also returns energy.
Specs
- Mesh Fabric
- Comes In 22 Different Styles and Colors
- Comes In Sizes 5 ½ – 11
Pros
- Relatively cheap
- Provides a balance of cushioning and flexibility
- Highly responsive and durable
- Lightweight, breathable mesh upper
Cons
- Less arch support
2. Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe
If you are looking for an extremely comfortable female running shoe that you can use to run long distances, we recommend you go for the Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe. When it comes to comfort, this shoe is at the top of the game.
In addition to being highly comfortable, these shoes are very easy to put and take off. It features a slip-on design with a lace-up design at the front. The shoe provides a great fit, and it would keep your feet in place no matter how far and fast you run.
For a more comfortable step-in feel, the shoe cradles your feet with a stretchy neoprene-like upper and a Cloudfoam sock liner. The midsole and outsole have plush cushioning to make every step a dream.
The sole is made with durable rubber, and it provides great stability while running. It also provides great traction on any terrain and weather. The shoe is available in 16 different colors with sizes ranging from 5 through 12.
The stretchy provides a secure and comfortable fit, and it also improves ventilation. The shoe is also lightweight, which means you can use it to run for long without feeling the weight of the shoe.
Specs
- Material: Stretchy material
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Provides great support
- Durable sole that provides stability and traction
- Stylish and highly breathable
Cons
- Complaints about its durability
3. Brooks Men’s Ghost 12 Running Shoe
Next on the line is the Brooks Men’s Ghost 12 Running Shoe, and it is another great pair of shoes for different types of runners. The shoe features a great design and it is also ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities other than running.
It comes with a lace-up closure, with rubber laces, making it very easy to put on and take off. The shoe is made with synthetic, and it comes with a mesh upper. The mesh upper is soft, lightweight, and highly breathable.
It is designed to keep your feet fresh, cool, and dry at all times. The entire shoe is super lightweight and it provides smooth and comfortable rides. The lightweight design did not compromise on the cushioning, as it is extremely cushioned to provide your feet with all the support they need.
These shoes are great for cross-training, the gym, road running, and more. It comes with DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA cushioning to provide the perfect level of softness without compromising durability and responsiveness.
The shoe also comes with a Segmented Crash Pad that helps to absorb shock, which means your foot will remain balanced and well-cushioned regardless of how it lands on the ground. You can get this shoe in 32 different colors, with sizes ranging from 7 through 15.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 15
Pros
- An array of colors to choose from
- Soft, balanced cushioning
- Provides a stable and smooth ride on all terrains
- Provides secure, soft fit
Cons
- On the higher end of the price spectrum
4. MAIITRIP Men’s Running Shoes Sport Athletic Sneakers
If you are looking for the best running shoe that you can use to hit the gym, you should consider the MAIITRIP Men’s Running Shoes Sport Athletic Sneakers. These athletic sneakers are the perfect sneakers to hit the road and gym. The shoes are highly durable and they are designed to withstand every use and abuse.
The shoe comprises a breathable tennis mesh vamp, which means your feet will remain fresh, dry, and cool as you run. It also comes with a high elastic, lightweight MD outsole that is highly durable and stable. The sole provides great grip and traction, which means you can use it even on wet and rough terrains.
It is stylish and you can choose from the 11 different colors it comes in. The shoe features a low-top, lace-up system, which means you will not have any issues wearing or taking it off. It also comes with a roomy toe box, ensuring your feet remain comfortable and free while running.
The shoe features a lightweight design and this can help enhance your running experience. This shoe is great for walking, training, jogging, daily gym sports, workout, casual wear, and even traveling.
Specs
- Material: Mesh
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 14
Pros
- Fashion stylish look
- Lightweight and durable MD sole
- Comfortable everyday shoe
- Provides great stability and traction
Cons
- Not the best quality shoe
5. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
Nike is a brand that no longer needs an introduction in the shoe production industry. Nike is one of the best running shoe brands to turn to if you are looking for quality and durable running shoes.
The Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes from this brand is one of the most amazing pairs of running shoes and it is designed to enhance your running experience. Nike made this shoe with a gum rubber sole, and the mesh upper come with perforations.
The perforation serves as ventilation, making the shoe a highly breathable option. The shoe also provides arch support, and this makes a great option for runners that require adequate arch support. It features a slimmer design, which helps to reduce bulk and weight for a more conforming and comfortable fit.
The shoe provides responsive, smooth, and comfortable rides, thanks to its full-length Zoom Air. This great pair of shoes also promote higher speeds, thanks to the exposed Flywire cables. The shoe is well-cushioned and is great for walking and running long distances.
Specs
- Material: NA
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Gum rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 14
Pros
- Different colors and styles to choose from
- Helps to keep the feet dry and cool
- Provides responsive and smooth rides
- Provides excellent arch support
Cons
- Not available in larger sizes
6. ASICS Women’s Gel Pulse 11 Running Shoes
The ASICS Women’s Gel Pulse 11 Running Shoes is the number one choice of many female runners. Whether you want to hit the road, gym, outdoor activities, or just walk, these shoes are there to provide you with a great experience.
The shoe is highly responsive and flexible, and it conforms to the shape of your foot as you run. It is also very stylish, and it is available in 11 different colors. ASICS made this shoe with synthetic and mesh, with a mesh upper that is highly breathable and lightweight.
It comes with a rubber outsole that ensures you remain firm and well-supported on all types of terrains. The shoe comes with AmpliFoam midsole, and it helps to keep moisture at bay. It also helps to reduce shock impacts and provide a smooth, comfortable transition, thanks to its rearfoot gel technology cushioning system.
The shoe also provides enhanced gait efficiency, as it comes with a Guidance Line Midsole Technology. ASICS integrated most of its top-notch technologies into this shoe, ensuring you get all the support and comfort you need while running.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic and Mesh
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Made with high-quality materials
- Enhance gait efficiency
- Highly breathable and manages moisture
- Reduces shock impacts
Cons
- Not much support
7. Adidas Women’s Edge Lux 3 Running Shoe
Next on the line is the Adidas Women’s Edge Lux 3 Running Shoe. Available in more than 40 different colors, this women’s running shoe from Adidas is one of the top running shoes. With a wide range of colors to choose from, you can pick one or more colors that best suit your style.
The shoe features a lace-up closure and it is very easy to break-in. It is made with 100 percent textile, and the entire shoe is breathable. It allows for the constant flow of air to keep your feet cool, dry, and healthy.
The high breathability of the shoe also helps to keep odor at bay. It comes with a synthetic sole, and the sole can withstand every use and additional weight from overweight people.
The shoe has a bounce feel that provides energized comfort for all sports and outdoor activities, all day long. It also features a sock-like construction for a snug fit. The bounce midsole also delivers improved flexibility and comfort. The upper of the shoe is also made of mesh, and this increases the breathability of the shoe.
Specs
- Material: 100% Textile
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Synthetic sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Made with flexible and highly breathable material
- Very easy to wear and take off
- Ideal for a variety of outdoor activities
Cons
- Complaints about the color wearing off quickly
8. Nike Women Revolution 5 Running Shoe
The Nike Women Revolution 5 Running Shoe is one of our top recommendations for those looking for the best shoes for running. If you are looking to cover long distances, and you want to do that in style and comfort, we recommend you go for this option.
This shoe is stylish and you can get it in 11 different colors, with sizes ranging from 5 through 12. It features a sturdy design and it comes with a synthetic sole that provides great grip and stability. The shoe offers revolutionary comfort, which means your feet are going to remain cozy regardless of how long, fast, and far you run.
This shoe is also lightweight, making it very easy to run with. Nike made these shoes with a lightweight knit textile that is highly breathable. The material wraps the feet in breathable comfort, allowing for the free flow of air to keep your feet cozy and dry.
The shoe also offers excellent durability and support, thanks to its reinforced heel and no-sew overlays. It comes with a soft foam midsole that provides stable, comfortable, and smooth rides. Nike also built the shoe to last, as all the materials used are of high quality.
The flexibility and excellent traction of the shoe are also some of its great selling points. The shoe is well-cushioned and plush padded to provide you with more comfort as you run. It also features a textured outer wall that helps to hide creases and reduce weight.
Specs
- Material: Fabric
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Synthetic sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Provides revolutionary comfort
- Highly flexible and durable
- Breathable and lightweight design
- Provides foot and arch support
Cons
- Not true to size
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=So-Dp6jA7AE
9. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi Trail V1 Running Shoe
The last on our list is the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Arishi Trail V1 Running Shoe, and it made it to our list because of the great support and comfort it offers runners. The shoe features a great design and it comes in handy in other activities besides running.
This shoe comes with a rubber sole, and you can use it on any terrain, whether wet or rough. New Balance made this shoe with 100 percent textile. It comes with a highly breathable upper that features no-sew construction for a sleek feel and fit.
The shoe is great for off and on-road activities, thanks to its outsole that provides versatile traction. To provide your feet with optimal comfort while running, this shoe comes with EVA foam inserts. It also features a precision-engineered fresh foam midsole cushioning and provides super lightweight and well-cushioned rides.
With this shoe, you do not have to worry about sustaining injuries from roots, rocks, and debris, as it comes with a toe protection technology that keeps your feet protected at all times. The shoe is available in seven different colors and styles, with sizes ranging from 7 through 15.
Specs
- Material: 100% Textile
- Gender: Men
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 15
Pros
- Offers great grip in all terrains
- Breathable upper that provides a sleek feel and fit
- Protects your feet from debris, rocks, and roots
- Provides super lightweight and comfortable rides
Cons
- Doesn’t provide much heel support
A Comprehensive Guide On How To Pick The Best Running Shoes
Picking the top running shoe is not as easy as it sounds; the process needs a little bit of extra work (research) from your side. However, to make the process as seamless as possible, we have outlined some of the vital factors you need to consider when shopping for a running shoe. Here are some of the important factors to consider:
The Design of the Upper
The upper design is one of the most important things you need to consider when buying a running shoe. The upper of the shoe is everything above the outsole. Most uppers are made with mesh and fabrics glued or sewed together.
Some modern versions use printing and knitting to design a single piece upper that stretches and provides great support in the right places. When buying a running shoe, you should go for an option that comes with an upper that is shaped like your foot.
The upper should provide a very smooth and comfortable feel also; it should not bind chafe anywhere. The design of the upper should also allow for the constant flow of air; it should be highly breathable.
Roomy Toe Box
The toe box is the entire upper from the eyelets to the end of the shoe. It usually comes with a secure toe bumper that protects from stubbing. You want to make sure the toe box is roomy, and it provides enough space for your toes to remain well-spaced and comfortable.
Your feet should spread out naturally in the shoe without robbing or biding your toes. You should also be able to run with it for a long time without any toe pain.
Durable and Supportive Outsole
The outsole of the shoe is another vital thing you should consider before buying. The outsole is usually made with a wide range of foam or rubber compounds positioned in strategic areas to improve flexibility or bounce and enhance wear life.
You should go for a shoe that comes with an outsole that provides excellent traction and grip. It should be made with a highly durable material to withstand everyday use and abuse.
The sole should also be flexible and super lightweight, and it should have a shape that matches the shape of your foot. It should have great stability and should be able to keep you stable and firm in all types of terrains.
Highly Supportive Midsole
The midsole of the shoe lies between the upper and the outsole. It is there to cushion you from impact forces and protect your feet as you run.
You should go for a midsole with material and thickness that feels great at running speed. The midsole should be lightweight and it should not be too firm or too soft.
Excellent Cushioning
The cushioning of the shoe is one thing you want to pay close attention to. You need to make sure the shoe is well-cushioned to provide you with all the support you need while running. The shoe should provide a balance between stability, cushioning, and ground feel.
It should also provide excellent forefoot cushioning, which means you need to pay close attention to the responsiveness of the shoe. The shoe should have a sturdy and comfortable push-off platform. It should provide all-round cushioning, as this would increase the comfort and support the shoe provides.
Performance and Comfort
You also need to consider how well the shoe does its job. Can you run in the shoes for long? Is the running shoe comfortable enough to run long distances? You need to make sure the shoe boasts of high performance and it should be comfortable enough for you to cover long distances without any issue.
It should provide a secure fit and feel to ensure your feet sit perfectly in it. The shoe should not feel too loose or tight, as this could ruin your running experience. What you need is a highly comfortable and high-performance running shoe, and you can get a headstart on how comfortable the shoe is by reading the reviews of previous users.
The Weight of the Shoe
The more the stability and cushioning of a shoe, the heavier it would be. However, there are many well-cushioned and stable lightweight shoes out there. Your best option is a lightweight shoe, as this would help you to run faster and more comfortably.
You do not want to be disturbed with the additional weight of the shoe while running; hence, you should always go for a lightweight shoe.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Sacrificing Performance For Fashion
One common mistake that many runners make while shopping for running shoes is buying based on looks. Even if you are highly fashion-minded, you should not sacrifice performance for looks.
If your focus is only on looks, you might end up with a shoe that hurts your feet or cause one foot issue or the other. When buying a running shoe, your top priority should be fit, feel, performance, and comfort, not fashion or look.
Tight Fits
You should avoid buying shoes that provide very tight fits, and they can result in black toenails and blisters. You should go for a shoe that is roomy enough in the forefoot.
Not Reading Reviews
You should also avoid the mistake of buying a shoe online without going through the review section. If you really want to know how the shoe feels without trying it out, your next stop should be at the review section.
In this section, you will be able to learn from the experiences of previous users. You would be able to know if the shoe is durable, comfortable, secure, and more.
Final Thoughts
You need to pay close attention to a wide range of things when shopping for running shoes. This is because many shoes feel great right out of the box, but you might get an entirely different experience when you run a few miles in them.
In this guide, we have done all the findings for you; all you have to do is to pick the option that best suits your style and need. Our top recommendation is the Under Armour Men’s Charged Asserts 8 Running Shoe because it is highly supportive, comfortable, lightweight, and durable.