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Are you in search of the best running shoes? Well, the truth is, finding the right pair is a personal journey. No one can tell you which shoes are best for you because it depends on the shape of your feet, how you run, and the ground you run on. Finding a shoe that fits well and has the right amount of support and cushioning is the key to being relaxed while running. At Fleet Feet, we know how important it is to have the right fit. That’s why our innovative Fleet Feet fit id® Outfitting process lets us give you a personalized fit.
With 3D foot scanner technology, we can get important information from millions of foot scans, like the length, width, and arch height of the foot. Because we have so much information, we can give you unique insights into how the best running shoes for people from top brands work and fit different types of feet. Whether you’re a beginner who wants to start running, an ultramarathoner who needs a tough trail shoe, or someone who wants a high-cushioned daily trainer for weekend runs, our complete guide to the best running shoes will help you make the right choice.
Best Running Shoes Comparison Table
| Brand | Model | Type | Cushioning | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS | GEL-Nimbus 25 | Neutral | GEL technology | Approx. 10.9 ounces |
| Brooks | Ghost 15 | Neutral | DNA Loft, BioMoGo DNA | Approx. 10.1 ounces |
| Nike | ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 | Racing | ZoomX foam | Approx. 6.6 ounces |
| Adidas | Adistar | Stability | Boost | Approx. 11.2 ounces |
| Saucony | Endorphin Speed 3 | Performance | PWRRUN PB, PWRRUN+ | Approx. 7.5 ounces |
| Saucony | Kinvara 13 | Neutral | PWRRUN | Approx. 7.8 ounces |
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | ASICS |
| Model | GEL-Nimbus 25 |
| Type | Neutral running shoe |
| Cushioning | GEL technology for enhanced shock absorption |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh and synthetic overlays |
| Midsole Material | FlyteFoam technology for lightweight and responsive feel |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber for traction and durability |
| Weight | Approximately 10.9 ounces (men’s size 9) |
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is a standard model with cushioning made to last for both new and experienced runners who train every day. The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is for you if you want a shoe that is durable, gives you a lot of comfort, and fits well. The makers at ASICS added even more of their FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam to the midsole, making this version of the Nimbus the softest one yet.
They also put their brand-new Pure-GEL technology in the heel to better absorb the pressure of running and make transitions smoother. The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is great for all-around success because it fits well and can be used in different ways.
The Good
- Excellent cushioning to keep your feet from hurting when you run.
- The upper is made of a material that lets air flow through it.
- The ride is smooth because the midsole is light and sensitive.
- The base is made to last for long-lasting grip.
- Suitable for neutral runners.
The Bad
- Runners who want a more basic shoe may find this one to be too big.
- Not many color choices.
Brooks Ghost 15
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Brooks |
| Model | Ghost 15 |
| Type | Neutral running shoe |
| Cushioning | DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA for a plush and responsive feel |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print overlays |
| Midsole Material | Segmented Crash Pad for smooth heel-to-toe transitions |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber with flex grooves for flexibility and grip |
| Weight | Approximately 10.1 ounces (men’s size 9) |
The Brooks Ghost sneaker has won a lot of awards and is one of the most famous on the market. The Ghost 15 looks like it will be the same. No matter how you train, the new Brooks DNA Loft v2 foam gives you a smooth, soft ride. It is also lighter and softer than ever. The Ghost 15 is a great daily trainer because the upper is made of engineered mesh, which is light and durable.
The 3D fit print also makes the Ghost 15 feel safe around your foot. Even though the Ghost 15 is soft right away, it works well for long runs, rest days, and uptempo workouts because it has a gripping outsole that gives it a little extra responsiveness.
The Good
- Cushioning that is soft and flexible makes it easy to run.
- Engineered mesh on the top lets air in and keeps the foot in place.
- Smooth changes from heel to toe make it easy to walk.
- Flexible grooves in the bottom help the shoe move and grip the ground.
- Suitable for neutral runners.
The Bad
- Compared to some lightweight running shoes, they may feel a little heavy.
- Not many color choices.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nike |
| Model | ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 |
| Type | Racing shoe |
| Cushioning | ZoomX foam for lightweight and responsive feel |
| Upper Material | VaporWeave material for breathable and secure fit |
| Midsole Material | Full-length carbon fiber plate for energy return |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber with traction pattern for grip |
| Weight | Approximately 6.6 ounces (men’s size 9) |
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next 2 is the best running shoe because it gives back a lot of energy and feels like nothing else we’ve tried. This is a running shoe made for going fast. When we tried it, we were very impressed with how springy it was. This is because it has a full-length, articulated carbon footplate and a lot of ZoomX foam, but it doesn’t feel soft or marshmallowy.
It has a simple mesh top that is very breathable and has just enough padding to make it comfortable without making it too heavy. During our runs, we felt linked to each other and safe. The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next 2 is a great shoe for races and track days, and it could help you set a new personal best. But if you want to train every day, we suggest you pair it with a less expensive shoe from this list. This is one of the Best Running Shoes.
The Good
- The design is light so that speed and agility are better.
- For a fast-paced run, you need padding that responds and energy return.
- The top is made of a material that lets air in and keeps your foot in place.
- The best grip comes from a durable outsole with good stability.
- Perfect for runners who compete and want to do well on race day.
The Bad
- Specialized bikes are mostly made for racing and are not good for regular training.
- Compared to regular workout shoes, these ones cost more.
Adidas Adistar
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Adidas |
| Model | Adistar |
| Type | Stability running shoe |
| Cushioning | Boost technology for responsive and cushioned ride |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh and synthetic overlays |
| Midsole Material | Dual-density Boost for added stability and support |
| Outsole Material | Continental rubber for traction and durability |
| Weight | Approximately 11.2 ounces (men’s size 9) |
The Adidas Adistar’s rocker surprised us because it keeps you moving forward even during long training sessions. It’s not the lightest shoe we’ve ever tried, but the dual-density foam is tough and resilient, holding up well even after a lot of miles. We also liked that the shoe has an integrated cage system that makes it fit snugly and comfortably. This is one of the Best Running Shoes.
The top is made from recycled ocean plastic and recycled polyester, which is good for the environment. Overall, the Adidas Adistar is a great running shoe for long, slow runs. It will help you keep your form when your mind starts to wander and you’re running on autopilot. Even after wearing them for a few hours, the shoes don’t feel slow, and the rocker design makes it less likely that your feet will drag, even though the shoes have a high stack.
The Good
- Rides that are responsive and cushioned make running more enjoyable.
- Engineered mesh on the top lets air in and keeps the foot in place.
- The Boost cushion has two different densities for more stability and support.
- The base is strong and has good grip on a variety of surfaces.
- Runners who need footing and support can wear these shoes.
The Bad
- Compared to some lighter stability running shoes, this one may feel a little heavy.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Saucony |
| Model | Endorphin Speed 3 |
| Type | Performance running shoe |
| Cushioning | PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN+ for responsive and propulsive ride |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh and FORMFIT overlays |
| Midsole Material | Nylon plate and SPEEDROLL technology for speed |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber with strategic flex grooves |
| Weight | Approximately 7.5 ounces (men’s size 9) |
Our favorite running shoe for guys is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3. It has just the right amount of cushioning and response. This shoe is comfy enough to get you through long days of hard training, and it feels quick enough for days when you have to run fast. It’s hard to find the right balance, but the Endorphin Speed 3 comes closer than most shoes we’ve tried. This is one of the Best Running Shoes.
If you want your running shoes to be more stable, this may not be the best choice for you. It didn’t do as well as other types and didn’t have much extra support for your feet on uneven ground. To make up for the lack of stiffness, you need to pay more attention to your form and use your lower leg muscles more. But our feet were happy mile after mile, and the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is a great choice for most walkers because it works well in a lot of different situations.
The Good
- Cushioning that responds and moves you forward for a fast run.
- The upper is made of engineered mesh with FORMFIT overlays for a snug and comfy fit.
- Nylon plate and SPEEDROLL technology make the machine move faster and work better.
- Flexible grooves in the bottom help the shoe move and grip the ground.
- Perfect for runners who want to run fast and well.
The Bad
- May not be stable enough for runners who overpronate.
- Not many color choices.
Saucony Kinvara 13
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Saucony |
| Model | Kinvara 13 |
| Type | Neutral running shoe |
| Cushioning | PWRRUN technology for lightweight and responsive feel |
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh with FORMFIT overlays |
| Midsole Material | EVA+ foam for cushioning and energy return |
| Outsole Material | Durable rubber with triangular lugs for traction |
| Weight | Approximately 7.8 ounces (men’s size 9) |
The Saucony Kinvara 13 is one of the lightest and most flexible Best Running Shoes on the market, and it costs a reasonable amount. We love how light and airy they feel for short, fast-paced runs where turning your legs over quickly is important. It does have some light padding for runs of medium length, but we wouldn’t choose it for long runs.
The Kinvara 13’s weak spot is that it has average cushioning and durability. With a shoe like this, which has less structure, you have to be careful to keep your form even when you’re tired. That’s why we like to keep our runs in these shoes short and quick. If you rarely run more than 10 miles, these may be the right shoes for you. They are also good for track laps and speedwork.
The Good
- Cushioning that is light and responsive makes running easy.
- The top is made of engineered mesh with FORMFIT overlays for a snug fit.
- EVA+ foam in the midsole helps support and return energy.
- The outsole is strong and has triangle lugs that help you grip different surfaces.
- This shoe is good for intermediate runners who want a light and flexible shoe.
The Bad
- May not have enough support or cushioning for long runs or hard training.
- Not many color choices.
FAQs
A: Stability running shoes are made for runners whose feet roll inward too much when they run, which is called overpronation. These shoes have more structure and support to help fix pronation and make walking more stable. Neutral running shoes, on the other hand, are good for walkers whose foot strike is neutral or supinated. They have the right amount of cushioning and flexibility, but not too much support.
A: Running shoes usually last between 300 and 500 miles (480 to 800 kilometers), based on the runner’s weight, running style, and the type of terrain they run on. Most people should change their running shoes every 400 to 500 miles or when they start to show signs of wear and tear, like less cushioning or less support.
A: Running shoes are made for the repetitive action and impact of running, but they can also be used for walking, working out at the gym, or just for everyday wear. But for activities like basketball, tennis, and hiking, which require special shoes, it’s best to use shoes made for those activities to get the best performance and support.