When you run, your foot strikes the ground up to 100 times per minute, with forces up to seven times your body weight impacting it. That means that a person who weighs 150 pounds puts 1,000 pounds of pressure on each foot with every stride. It’s no wonder that you want to support your feet while you exercise.
Cushioning reduces impact and provides comfort, but there are other factors to look for in a great running shoe. Some models even claim to improve your gait or enhance the spring in your step. Women’s and men’s running shoes are often similar, but some companies make specific styles for women because their feet tend to hit the ground differently than men’s. Some running shoes even aim to correct foot problems.
Best Shoes for Men
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 is fast and looks sharp. The Nike Zoom cushioning system is designed to help you stay quick and agile. Tightly stretched fibers quickly transfer energy from impact to take-off as a way to help you move rapidly. The sole is thin enough that you can retain control as you feel the ground without resorting to a minimalist shoe.
This shoe costs about $120.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18
If you need stability, you might want to consider the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18. If you overpronate or roll your foot excessively toward the arch, you might want to consider shoes that provide extra stability. This shoe contains a progressive diagonal rollbar that helps you maintain proper alignment. Combined with soft cushioning and just enough flexibility, the design is intended to keep you comfortable and prevent pain as you reach your running goals.
This shoe costs about $120.
Under Armour Micro G Assert 7
The Under Armour Micro G Assert 7 are neutral shoes that work for any type of gait. The foam midsole is made of one piece for comfortable and smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The EVA sock liner adds additional cushioning without bulk.
This shoe costs about $70.
Best Shoes for Women
Adidas Supernova ST
The Adidas Supernova ST are neutral shoes with dual-density cushioning. The base is firmer at the arch, which provides stability. The cushioning is still completely bouncy, which enhances comfort and lets your foot move the way that it needs to. The outsole also flexes for adequate responsiveness and traction.
This shoe costs about $140.
New Balance 860v8
If you overpronate but want a smooth, flexible ride, consider the New Balance 860v8. These shoes feature dual-density cushioning and an updated mesh upper that’s more flexible than ever before. They’re ideal for people with wide feet because they have a roomy toe box. Even though they’re heavier than some other running shoes, a plastic shank under the arch makes them feel reactive.
This shoe costs about $124.99.
Adidas Edge Lux
The Adidas Edge Lux are designed specifically for women. They have greater motion control, which helps with the overpronation to which women are susceptible due to the angle at which their feet hit the ground. The mesh upper wraps around the foot, and the sidewall overlays prevent feet from sliding around. The cushioning isn’t excessive as it provides flexibility and control as well as all-day comfort.
This shoe costs about $85.
Best Shoes for Casual Runners
Nike Free 4.0
The Nike Free 4.0 running shoes feature Flyknit technology, which makes the upper feel more like a sock than a restrictive shoe. This also reduces weight and makes the shoe perfect for packing when you travel.
This shoe costs about $120.
New Balance Minimus 10v1 Trail
If you run on a variety of terrain or switch from jogging to hiking, you might want to look at the New Balance Minimus 10v1 Trail shoe. The Vibram outsole provides great traction on uneven surfaces and is durable enough for plenty of runs. The midfoot wrap keeps your foot steady wherever you go.
This shoe costs about $114.99.
Brooks Ghost 11
Brooks claims that the Ghost 11 is just right for runners. It offers comfortable cushioning, with a DNA LOFT heel crash pad to withstand the impact of a heel strike. The shock absorbers in the sole also guide your foot quickly and effortlessly as it rolls forward for takeoff.
This shoe costs about $120.
Best Shoes for Feet Issues
Under Armour HOVR CGR Mid Connected
The Under Armour HOVR CGR Mid Connected shoes give you digital feedback about your stride, which can be helpful if you’re experiencing pain or want to improve your runs. They have ColdGear Reactor Intelligent insulation, which adjusts the temperature based on your level of activity. The UA HOVR cushioning system absorbs impact and transfers energy to eliminate injury and fatigue.
This shoe costs about $140.
Adidas Adizero Adios 3
If you have high arches, you likely deal with reduced shock absorption and instability in the lower leg muscles. The Adidas Adizero Adios 3 shoes are highly stable. In fact, they’re so snug that the manufacturer recommends buying one size larger than your regular shoe. They also use BOOST cushioning, which adds some weight but doesn’t deteriorate as quickly as EVA.
This shoe costs about $98.
New Balance 1260v7
The New Balance 1260v7 have a lower drop than many of the other shoes listed in this article. That means that the difference between the heel and toe height is 8mm. This makes the shoes feel like an extension of your feet and may be more comfortable if you have low arches. It also offers a dual-density midsole to prevent overpronation.
This shoe costs about $160.