Last Updated on May 28, 2025 by Andy Walker
Choosing the right pair of shoes goes beyond style—it’s about comfort, fit, and support. Whether you’re shopping for walking shoes, running shoes, or everyday comfort footwear, the brand you choose matters. Below is a detailed resource table that links you to brand homepages, sizing charts, proprietary shoe technologies, and their top three models on Amazon with affiliate links. We’ve also included which foot types each brand best supports.
Use this table to quickly compare brands and shop confidently knowing what each one offers.
Shoe Brand | Sizing Info | Shoe Technology Name | Amazon.com Link | Top 3 Models | Foot Type Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nike | Neutral, High arches | ||||
Adidas | Neutral, Moderate arches | ||||
ASICS | Overpronation, Flat feet | ||||
Brooks | Neutral, Overpronation | ||||
New Balance | Flat feet, Overpronation | ||||
HOKA | Neutral, Overpronation, High arches | ||||
On Running | Neutral, Cushioned support | ||||
Reebok | Neutral, Cross-training support | ||||
Puma | Neutral, Cushioned support | ||||
Altra | Wide feet, Natural foot position | ||||
Vionic | Overpronation, Plantar fasciitis | ||||
Skechers | Cushioned support, Flat feet | ||||
Vivaia | Women, eco-conscious, average arches |
Notes on Foot Type and Sizing
Foot Type Compatibility: Understanding your foot type can drastically improve comfort and reduce injury risk. Overpronators may need stability or motion-control shoes, while those with high arches benefit from extra cushioning.
Sizing Tools: Many of these brands offer printable foot measurement tools or in-store sizing scanners. Always check if the brand runs small or large before ordering.
Shoe Cushioning Technology Overview:
Here are the cushioning technologies used in each brand of shoe. See also Best Cushioned Running Shoes.
Nike Zoom Air: Bounce and responsiveness
Nike’s Zoom Air units use tightly stretched tensile fibers within a pressurized air pocket to create a snappy, low-profile cushioning system. It delivers a fast, responsive feel ideal for runners, basketball players, and anyone looking for explosive push-off power.
Adidas Boost: High energy return and softness
Adidas Boost is made from TPU pellets fused into a bouncy foam. Known for its high energy return and plush underfoot feel, Boost cushioning suits long-distance runners, walkers, and people on their feet all day who want maximum comfort.
ASICS GEL: Shock absorption
ASICS GEL cushioning is made from silicone-based gel inserts placed in high-impact areas like the heel and forefoot. This technology helps dampen shock during landings, making it ideal for road running, cross-training, and injury-prone users needing joint protection.
DNA Loft: Cushioned + durable
Brooks’ DNA Loft shoes blend EVA foam, rubber, and air for a soft yet durable ride. It adjusts to each step for personalized cushioning, perfect for long-distance runners or anyone seeking a plush feel without sacrificing longevity or stability.
Hoka Meta-Rocker: Smooth transition
Hoka’s Meta-Rocker shoes feature a curved sole shape that promotes a rolling motion from heel to toe. This reduces fatigue and encourages natural gait mechanics, making it a top choice for walkers, runners with joint concerns, and recovery days.
On Running’s CloudTec: Cushioned pods for a soft landing
On Running’s CloudTec features individual pods (or “clouds”) that compress during impact and lock in place for a firm toe-off. The result is a soft landing followed by powerful propulsion, making this tech great for speed workouts and road running.
Reebok’s Floatride Energy: Lightweight and springy
Reebok’s Floatride Energy foam offers a responsive ride with minimal weight. This technology provides good shock absorption and bounce, appealing to neutral runners and fitness walkers who want performance cushioning at an accessible price point.
Puma’s ProFoam: Everyday lightweight cushioning
PUMA’s ProFoam shoes contain a high-rebound EVA foam designed for everyday comfort and versatility. Whether used in gym shoes or lifestyle sneakers, it provides reliable cushioning without adding bulk, ideal for cross-training or all-day wear.
Vionic Vio-Motion: Arch support for stability
Found in Vionic shoes, Vio-Motion Technology includes a contoured footbed with enhanced arch support and heel cupping. It’s particularly beneficial for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or overpronation, offering biomechanically-aligned comfort.
Sketchers Arch Fit: Podiatrist-certified arch support
Skechers Arch Fit shoes feature removable insoles developed with podiatrists and backed by 20 years of data. The system distributes weight across the foot to reduce pressure, perfect for people needing orthopedic-level support during long periods of standing or walking.
Eco Knit: Breathable and eco-friendly fabric
Eco Knit is used by brands like Vivaia and Allbirds and refers to sustainable uppers made from recycled materials (like plastic bottles). These uppers offer stretch, breathability, and style while reducing environmental impact—ideal for casual wear and conscious consumers.