Reviews You Can Rely On

10 Best Running Shoes of 2024

We've tested hundreds of running shoes in both men's and women's styles from brands like Saucony, Hoka, Brooks, Salomon, and more to find the very best
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10 Best Running Shoes of 2024
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Our Top Picks

Saturday February 17, 2024

Whether you're new to running or a seasoned marathoner, every running journey starts with the right pair of shoes. But how do you know which one is right? Do you need stability? Or are you after speed? The sheer number of options on the market today can quickly become overwhelming, even for those who already know what they want in a shoe. Lucky for you, we have spent the past 11 years researching, testing, and, most importantly, running in nearly 500 pairs of shoes and counting. We have put each pair through its paces, traveling over mountain passes, completing speedy track workouts, and putting up mile after mile on smooth, never-ending roads. We cut shoes open to measure, poke, prod, and truly determine what they are made of. No matter your level, if you're looking for some new kicks, you have come to the right spot. We have compiled a list of our top ten favorite running shoes according to seasoned experts, and we hope that it will help you to make a purchase that keeps you happy on your feet.

This article covers our favorites of both men's and women's styles, but if you want the full lineup for either gender group, check out our comparison of the best running shoes for men or our best women's running shoe review. We also have a full lineup of the best trail running shoes and can even recommend our favorite barefoot shoes. Once your feet are ready to go, take a look at our top picks for other running gear to get yourself outfitted with the right shorts, socks, and accessories.

Editor's Note: This review was updated on February 28, 2024, to include a new favorite budget pick for men. We also updated our buying advice to help you make the best choice for your feet.

Related: Best Running Shoes for Men
Related: Best Running Shoes for Women


Best Overall Men's Running Shoe


Asics Novablast 4


REASONS TO BUY
Fun cushioning
Plush upper
Versatile
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks traction on wet roads
Upper might feel warm on hot days
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 9.76 oz
Style Daily/cushioning
Sizes Available 6 - 15 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 7 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 43 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 36 mm
The Asics Novablast 4 is our favorite daily trainer. It's comfortable, well-cushioned and reasonably stable. The Novablast has a massive chunk of foam underfoot (43mm in the heel, 36mm in the forefoot), but don't let that fool you into thinking it's lazy. It's also responsive and bouncy, making it extremely versatile; picking up the pace is easy in this shoe, thanks to its unique geometry. And all that foam is appreciated when we want to take it easy.

If you find yourself on wet roads often, this might not be the shoe for you. We found the grip lacking on wet or slick surfaces, really our only complaint about this shoe. Whether you're after a single shoe that can do a bit of everything or are just looking for an enjoyable daily trainer, we can't recommend the Novablast 4 enough. Another great all-around shoe that we recommend is the Hoka Mach 5. It is slightly lighter than the Novablast 4, but has many of the same qualities that make it a great everyday runner.

Read more: Asics Novablast 4 review

The Asics Novablast 4 combines thick cushioning with fun geometry that makes it our favorite overall shoe.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey

Best Overall Running Shoe for Women


Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Excellent stability
Comfortable
Familiar fit
Relatively responsive
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavier
Might be too structured for some runners
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 8.21 oz
Style Supportive
Sizes Available 5 - 13 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 12 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 34 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 22 mm
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 earned the highest marks in our women's running shoe round-up for a couple of reasons. This 12mm drop shoe offers strong landing comfort and cushioning but lacks the maximalist stack that has become popular. Because of this, the Adrenaline provides a familiar and traditional fit that is appropriate for all run distances. The built-in lateral GuideRails offer excellent support for long distances, especially for runners who tend to overpronate.

The Adrenaline is a predictable, stable, and reliable shoe that lacks some of the serious tech of other shoes. If speed workouts and racing are your thing, the Adrenaline will work, but we recommend shoes with stronger responsiveness and less weight. Given the security of the Adrenaline, its responsiveness and weight are predictable, but PR-chasers might prefer something with a bit more underfoot pop. If this sounds like you, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 may be a good option to check out. But if you are in the market for a structurally sound workhorse of a marathon partner, the Adrenaline 23 comes with our highest recommendations.

Read more: Women's Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review

Related: Men's Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review

The comfortable, semi-plush, and breathable upper of the Adrenaline marries with its lateral support and underfoot comfort, creating an overall wonderful shoe.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Bang for Your Buck


Puma Velocity Nitro 3


REASONS TO BUY
Smooth and responsive ride
Excellent grip
Affordable
Do-it-all utility
REASONS TO AVOID
Narrow upper fit
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 10.07 oz
Style Daily
Sizes Available 7 - 14 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 10 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 39 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 29 mm
We love the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 for its versatility, comfort and price. It has a smooth ride, ample cushioning for long runs and enough responsiveness to handle faster paces. The supercritical NITRO foam throughout gives good energy return and a smooth ride. The upper has great lockdown and breathability, although the toebox is narrow. The PumaGrip outsole is phenomenal; if you need a daily trainer with excellent traction, your search ends here. We'd choose this shoe for all but the fastest workouts, and we think you will too.

This probably isn't your best option if you need more lateral stability. We think it's fine for most runners, but if you need a dedicated stability shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a good option. Runners with high-volume feet should try before they buy, as some might find the fit overly restrictive. Otherwise, this is one of the best shoes you'll find for the money. We don't hesitate to recommend the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 as your next training partner.

Read more: Men's Puma Velocity Nitro 3 review

Related: Women's Puma Deviate Nitro 2 review

The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 is versatile and simple, perfect for most of your runs.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey

Best Budget Buy for Women


Saucony Kinvara 14 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Super lightweight
Affordably priced
Minimalistic design
REASONS TO AVOID
Less stable
Outsole rubber is less durable
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 5.55 oz
Style Neutral
Sizes Available 5 - 12 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 5 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 30 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 25 mm
The women's version of the Saucony Kinvara 14 is an ultra-lightweight shoe that is available for a slightly more digestible price tag than many other running shoes on the market today. The updated Kinvara is a bit more responsive than previous iterations, relying on the rebound of slightly soft PWRRUN+ foam for energy return. The minimalistic design offers comfort where you need it without any extras. The comfortable and breathable upper make this shoe one we recommend for budget-conscious runners in need of a lightweight daily trainer.

The minimalistic structure of the Kinvara lacks the lateral support that some distance runners may covet. If this sounds like a problem for you, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a more supportive shoe that scores a bit higher all around without too much of a price jump. The outsole rubber on the Kinvara is also a bit softer than some of the more durable options we've tested, making it less suitable for crossing over onto light trails or abrasive surfaces. The 14th version of this shoe is also not as well received as previous iterations — some folks are happy, while others report that the increased stack height completely changes the shoe. Still, if you're not attached to the 13 and an affordable and peppy daily trainer is what you are after, the levity and pep of the Kinvara should treat you and your wallet right.

Read more: Women's Saucony Kinvara 14 review

Related: Men's Saucony Kinvara 14 review

Versatile and comfortable, the lightweight Kinvara is one of our top recommendations for runners seeking a great value for middle-distance workouts.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Men's Option for Smooth Cushioning


On Cloudsurfer 7


REASONS TO BUY
Plush cushioning
Good looks
Well-designed upper
REASONS TO AVOID
Exposed foam outsole
Lack of stability
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 9.15 oz
Style Cushioning
Sizes Available 7 - 14 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 15 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 40 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 25 mm
If you want to feel like you're rolling along on soft clouds, the On Cloudsurfer 7 might be for you. The midsole feels plush and soft, even as it rolls you forward with each step. The upper is deceptively light. Pair that with a pronounced rocker, and the Cloudsurfer handles faster paces while keeping you comfortable.

That doesn't mean it's a shoe we'd choose for workouts, but it can handle them. Our biggest concern with this shoe is the lack of stability. The soft cushioning and high stack (particularly in the heel) result in an extremely unstable shoe, and if you want a shoe that can better handle quick-paced workouts, the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is the way to go. If you prefer to feel planted, you won't like the Cloudsurfer. But, if you want a smooth and plush ride for easy runs with the ability to pick up the pace, you might want to consider this option.

Read more: Men's On Cloudsurfer 7 review

The Cloudsurfer feels great on smooth pavement.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey

Best Underfoot Cushion for Women


Asics Gel-Kayano 30 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Maximally-designed underfoot comfort
Buttery soft upper
Neutral stability is widely appropriate
REASONS TO AVOID
Runs slightly small
Heavy
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 8.01 oz
Style Neutral stability
Sizes Available 5 - 13 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 11 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 37 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 26 mm
The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 is a reimagined take on the maximalist-style shoes that have become popular for extreme comfort. Standing at a measured height of 37mm and 26mm in the heel and forefoot, respectively, the Gel Kayano is a tall shoe that is stuffed with plush underfoot cushion. Its buttery soft upper and nearly quarter-inch thick tongue add dimensional comfort for your longest distances. The Hoka Clifton 9 is similar in fit to the Kayano, making it another great choice if underfoot cushioning is your top priority.

It isn't especially surprising to learn that the Gel-Kayano runs a bit heavier than most shoes due to its incredible amount of cushion. This beefy runner isn't one we'd recommend for runners looking to lay down serious speed, but for long, slow distances, the comfort of the Kayano is prime. If you like maximalist cushioning but want something a little lighter on the feet, the Altra Torin 7 could be a good alternative if you are open to trying a zero-drop shoe. Fit-wise, the Gel-Kayano runs a bit short, which can lead to toes feeling cramped during runs. If you can't try this shoe on before you buy it, we recommend purchasing a half-size up for the ultimate comfort experience.

Read more: Women's Asics Gel-Kayano 30 review

Related: Men's Asics Gel-Kayano 30 review

Thick, comfortable, and with just enough flexibility, the Asics Gel Kayano is an honorable mention because of its incredible comfort.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Men's Race Day Shoe


Nike Vaporfly 3


REASONS TO BUY
Extremely fast
Responsive foam
Lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
Poor wet traction
Poor lateral stability
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 7.24 oz
Style Racing
Sizes Available 6 - 15 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 10 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 39 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 29 mm
When it's time to let it rip, the Nike Vaporfly 3 just might be your best choice. This shoe combines an aggressive geometry, a carbon plate, and a chunk of extremely responsive ZoomX foam to create one of the fastest shoes on the market. We love it for anything from a road mile to a marathon (plus for some of our hardest workouts), and we think you will, too.

As with any shoe that is hyper-focused, there are some drawbacks. This is a race shoe, with cushioning that will save your legs for the later stages of the race. But that cushioning doesn't transfer well to easy days. To be honest, this is a shoe for the hardest efforts and nothing else. But if you're willing to spend the money for some help as you chase that next PR, the Vaporfly 3 is the shoe we recommend. The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is another great race-day option that feels light on the feet and quickens your stride while offering slightly more stability and a more comfortable upper.

Read more: Men's Nike Vaporfly 3 review

The Vaporfly is great when it's time to rip.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey

Best Speed-Focused Women's Shoe


Nike Vaporfly 3 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Highly responsive
Profoundly lightweight
Relatively comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks versatility
Very expensive
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 4.98 oz
Style Racing
Sizes Available 5 - 12 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 8 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 32 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 24 mm
If speed is calling your name, the Nike Vaporfly 3 might be your perfect match. This dual-carbon plated shoe is made for serious speed work. With an 8mm drop, an incredibly lightweight body, and just enough comfort for racing, this is our go-to recommendation for runnings looking to ratchet up their paces. With each women's size 6.5 weighing in at just under 5 ounces, the weight of the Vaporfly won't hold you back. The breathable upper mesh also ensures that your feet won't heat up as your paces do.

While the pricey Vaporfly is comfortable for what it is, it doesn't offer much in the way of comfort features. This, combined with its made-for-speed stack, cuts down on the applications for the Vaporfly. If you want a responsive shoe that is slightly more comfortable for longer distances, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is a great option. The Deviate Nitro weighs a few ounces more but offers a bit more cushion in the places you need it most.

Read more: Nike Vaporfly 3 review

running shoes - the vaporfly is a highly-responsive and incredibly lightweight...
The Vaporfly is a highly-responsive and incredibly lightweight running shoe option for runners who are ready to PR.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Men


Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3


REASONS TO BUY
Exceptional underfoot protection
Great stability
Socklike fit
New version is lighter and more breathable
REASONS TO AVOID
Difficult to put on
Expensive
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 10.64 oz
Measured Lug Depth 3.5 mm
Sizes Available 4 - 13 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 9 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 31 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 22 mm
If you prefer to ditch the pavement, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is the shoe we recommend. Striking the perfect balance of some essential features to look for in a trail shoe, the S/Lab Ultra 3 earned near-perfect scores in comfort, stability, and foot protection. Although it has an 8mm drop, this shoe feels as stable as some zero-drop models we have tried, and the socklike fit keeps your foot in place even on off-camber trails. These shoes feel secure going down almost any kind of terrain.

The sturdy midsole left us feeling confident about underfoot protection. Still, Solomon scaled back the ruggedness of the upper, reducing it to a tightly woven mesh with the addition of film overlays only to high-wear areas, and the toe bumper is only semi-rigid. Another thing to note is the width. Solomon is notorious for making narrow-fitting shoes, which have more of an average width; they may not be as comfortable for runners with wide feet. These are not dealbreakers for most people, and the S/Lab Ultra 3 is the cream of the crop for trail runners, only scoring below average in the weight and sensitivity metrics. Check out the Altra Superior 6 if those are important.

Read more: Men's Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

Related: Women's Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

We think this shoe hits the sweet spot for weight, feeling agile but also providing all-day protection, especially on technical trails.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Women


Hoka Torrent 3 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Very comfortable
Grippy outsole with good traction
Durable
Great price
REASONS TO AVOID
Average weight
Lacebed and toe box are narrow until broken in
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 7.52 oz
Measured Lug Depth 4 mm
Sizes Available 5 - 11 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 5 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 26 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 21 mm
Thanks to its almost universal comfort, the women's Hoka Torrent 3 is what we suggest for long-distance trail runners. We easily ran 20+ mile distances (sometimes all at once) while wearing this protective and cushioned trail running shoe. With sticky rubber and multidirectional lugs designed to grip any surface, the traction is exceptional. The lugs remain strong and beefy even when worn in harsh conditions, and the Torrent easily transfers from the trail to the road. This is a great option if you're looking for a versatile shoe that will get you through distances of all lengths.

Although Hokas are comfortable, the toe box and lace bed on the Torrent 3 are small right out of the box. These trail shoes pack out for a tailored fit but require some break-in time. If you want more impact protection and comfort for miles on end, we highly recommend the Torrent 3. If you're more into zero drop and need a wide toe box, check out the Altra Lone Peak 7.

Read more: Women's Hoka Torrent 3 review

Related: Men's Hoka Torrent 3 review

Trail shoes with as much comfort, traction, and protection as the Torrent 3 can hold up to the demands of serious distance training.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Trail Runner on a Budget for Men


Brooks Divide 4


REASONS TO BUY
Good crossover style
Good stability
Comfortable for longer distances
Improved breathability
REASONS TO AVOID
Less sensitive
Average weight
Less reliable traction
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe, size 10.5) 10.82 oz
Measured Lug Depth 2.5 mm
Sizes Available 7 - 15 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 9 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 32 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 23 mm
If you're feeling timid about stepping into the world of trail runners or just don't want to spend a ton, the Brooks Divide 4 is at your service. Stable and durable, every iteration of this shoe has been one we recommend. Version 4 keeps most aspects of the upper we know and love, but a thinner and stiffer mesh noticeably improves breathability. While not ultralight or highly technical, this dependable shoe loves smooth and simple packed trails or even a jaunt through town on the way to the trail.

If your trail running has progressed to a more advanced place, the Divide 4 might leave you feeling underwhelmed. It's rigid, which takes away from the flexibility you want for technical terrain, particularly if you're moving fast. The Divide also has smaller lugs (we measured them at just 2.5mm) — with the stiffness of the shoe, these don't impart as much confidence as we would prefer. That said, if you're not moving super fast on complicated trails, or you plan to do a mix of hiking and running, this is a great contender. You certainly can't beat the price, and Brooks is known for building durable, long-lasting shoes. If you are looking to upgrade to a shoe with better traction and comfort, the Hoka Torrent 3 is a good place to start without having to shell out the big bucks.

Read more: Brooks Divide 4 review

The Divide 4 is as dependable as ever and this version is even more breathable.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Value Trail Runner for Women


Brooks Divide 4 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Great price
Traditional fit
Good crossover shoe
Excellent for beginning trail runners
REASONS TO AVOID
Less sensitive
Not as protective as burlier options
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe, size 6.5) 7.82 oz
Measured Lug Depth 3 mm
Sizes Available 5 - 12 US
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop 8 mm
Measured Heel Stack Height 29 mm
Measured Forefoot Stack Height 21 mm
Our female testers felt the same way as the men — that the Brooks Divide 4 is an excellent choice for newer runners, no matter the terrain. The price is right, and the traditionally-focused fit is a crowd-pleaser. Comfortable with firm cushioning, the Divide is great for simpler dirt trails and has no problem crossing over onto pavement.

The Divide isn't very sensitive or overly protective, so it's best kept to easy, packed trails. You certainly don't have to feel limited by this, but it's good to keep in mind if that doesn't match your intended style. You will feel some information from underfoot, but a rock plate dampens a good bit of this. But, as we said, if you're just learning the trail-running ropes, this is a great place to start. The Divide balances a lot of great features with an approachable fit and bomber price point. If you find yourself wanting to tackle more technical trails, the Merrell Antora 3 offers significantly better foot protection and traction without a huge jump in price.

Read more: Brooks Divide 4 review

running shoes - the divide 4 is approachable and well-built, ideal for those that...
The Divide 4 is approachable and well-built, ideal for those that are new to trail running or prefer to keep things simple.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Why You Should Trust Us


When testing running shoes, we pay close attention to underfoot and upper comfort, stability, cushion, traction, and weight. Depending on what type of running you do, each of these metrics will have different levels of importance, reflected in our weighting for each category. When pounding the pavement, cushion and landing comfort are the keys to keeping your joints happy. If you prefer to run on trails filled with rocks and roots, foot protection and traction will be your top priorities. Our male and female testers log dozens of miles in each pair of shoes and choose various terrain types to include in their routes. Collectively, our testers have traveled thousands of miles in close to 500 pairs of running shoes and counting.

Not only do we put each shoe through rugged field testing, but we...
Not only do we put each shoe through rugged field testing, but we closely examine every pair to confirm manufacturer claims and to get a better idea of how construction translates into performance.
The Topo Athletic MT-4 has a wide toe box comparable with the...
The Topo Athletic MT-4 has a wide toe box comparable with the zero-drop options we tested, which allows your foot to spread out and make balance adjustments as the shoe bends and flexes with the terrain.

Our main testers for this review include a collection of devoted runners with expertise in the sport, and most have spent years running and testing footwear for the OutdoorGearLab team. Ally Arcuri is an avid runner and exercise specialist with a Cal State Fullerton kinesiology degree that helps her evaluate women's trail and road shoes from a biomechanics perspective. Nathaniel Bailey is the lead tester for our men's road shoe review. He competed in track and cross country from middle school through college and now continues to race on the roads and coach high school and recreational runners. Matthew Richardson is our current men's trail shoe expert, exploring as many trails in SW Colorado as he can. Specializing in computer mapping, he also tests the market's best GPS watches, a perfect companion to creating and exploring new trail runs as he tests shoes.

In addition to running miles in these shoes, we closely examine the size, weight, and materials of each model.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

How to Choose the Right Running Shoe


You may be new to running and want to start on the right foot. You may be a long-time runner and know precisely what you like in a shoe, but are ready to branch out from your trusty model. Either way, you should consider a few things before purchasing your footwear. Each pair of running shoes has different features, and the right one depends on your running style, the length and location of your runs, and if you want a multifunctional shoe or are okay with having a different pair of shoes for each activity.

running shoes - once you determine the type of running you'll be doing, you can...
Once you determine the type of running you'll be doing, you can narrow down your search to include only shoes that will help you accomplish your goals.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Types of Running Shoes


Your running style will largely dictate which shoe is the best for you. Suppose your typical run involves a 20-minute morning jog on the paved path around the park. In that case, your shoe needs will differ wildly from the distance runner training for an ultramarathon or the trail junkie tackling rocky paths at high elevations. The location, frequency, and duration of your run all matter.

running shoes - shorter, speedy runs are breezy in the endorphin speed 3 by saucony...
Shorter, speedy runs are breezy in the Endorphin Speed 3 by Saucony, though we opt for different shoes for longer, slower runs.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Most running shoes can be categorized based on the style of running they are designed for. Trail running shoes have a more protective build, making them better suited for technical and rocky trails. Aggressive tread provides greater traction, and features like denser midsole foam and rock plates help to protect your feet. If you are lucky enough to have access to a great trail network that you'd love to take advantage of, our review of the best trail running shoes can help you find the perfect model.

Zero drop shoes are one subcategory of running shoes that work...
Zero drop shoes are one subcategory of running shoes that work really well for some runners. When your heels are riding at the same height as your forefoot, you calf muscles are put on stretch, which is dreamy and powerful for some runners and tedious and uncomfortable for others.
The Brooks Catamount never quite won us over. But its protective...
The Brooks Catamount never quite won us over. But its protective exterior kept our feet safe on this long run overlooking Lake Tahoe.
Trail running shoes offer more protection than road shoes since...
Trail running shoes offer more protection than road shoes since you're more likely to stub your toe on a rock or stump in the backcountry than in your paved neighborhood. Trail shoes also feature longer lugs and grippier outsoles to provide traction on unsteady surfaces.
From road, to trail, to lab, we test each shoe in a variety of situations to get a complete picture of performance.

In contrast, road shoes are typically lighter, have more plush cushioning, more breathable uppers, and often have less grippy outsole rubber. These shoes are built for the pavement-pounders out there and have features to help absorb the shock of hard man-made surfaces mile after mile. Some models can take you from running to biking, hiking, or crosstraining without skipping a beat, and others make great dedicated walking shoes. In this article, we will primarily be going over the features that make a good road running shoe.

Below, see the scores outlined for our men's road running shoes review and women's road running shoes review.



Midsole Materials: Cushioning and Responsivness


The real meat of a road running shoe is found in the midsole. The materials, level of cushioning, and flexibility will help you determine if a shoe is right for you. But stack height, heel-toe drop, rocker angle; what does it all mean? These are all measurements that can tell you about the level of cushioning and responsiveness you can expect from a shoe.

A peek inside our running shoe test lab.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Some essential terms to know when comparing cushioning and responsiveness include:
  • Stack height refers to the height or the thickness of the cushioning found in a shoe. While there is no strict industry standard for this measurement, we use a standardized method to compare the shoes we test and include the total amount of material that sits between your foot and the ground, including insole, midsole, and outsole. Stack height can play a big part in how the shoe feels underfoot, and while stack height does not strictly correspond to comfort or cushiness, it is a good place to start when narrowing down your options. Taller stack heights usually offer a more pillowy feeling ride, and lower stack heights provide more sensitivity and a better ground feel.
  • Heel-toe drop is the difference in height from the heel of a shoe to the toe. Traditional road shoes average around a 10mm drop, and you can find shoes with a great or smaller drop that will be better for you depending on your running style and preferences. Higher stack heights may be better for heel strikers, shifting impact force from feet/ankles to the knees/hips. Lower drop shoes encourage toe striking and shift the impact load from knee/hip joints to the feet and ankles. You can also look at zero drop shoes with the same stack height measurements at both the heel and the toe. Note that zero drop does not mean zero cushion; you can find a maximally cushioned shoe with a zero heel-toe differential.
  • Rocker Shoes have a specially designed geometry that encourages your foot to "rock" forward. A more lifted forefoot profile keeps you on your toes and allows you to expend less energy to get that forward rolling motion, which can help your runs feel more fluid and efficient. A steeper rocker angle provides a more aggressive rolling feeling and responsiveness but may compromise stability.
  • Plated shoes have a rigid structure running lengthwise through the inner sole, usually made either from stiff plastic, nylon, or carbon material. This can help provide better energy return with each step, and in our experience, plated shoes have a springy, energetic feel that makes us want to run fast.

Shoes like the Nike Vaporfly 3 with a plate in the midsole help give...
Shoes like the Nike Vaporfly 3 with a plate in the midsole help give you a feeling of forward propulsion with each step.
We slice shoes open to create a full picture of what we are working...
We slice shoes open to create a full picture of what we are working with. With the information provided, you can decide if a shoe with a carbon fiber plate, for example, will serve you or if you should find a kick with a more flexible outsole.
We measured the rocker angle of each shoe to help evaluate...
We measured the rocker angle of each shoe to help evaluate responsiveness.
We physically examine the features of each shoe in our lab and compare what we find to manufacturer claims and our in-use testing.

Levels of cushioning range from maximalist to barefoot, with maximalist shoes providing the highest stack heights and the most plush and bouncy feeling underfoot cushion. Stack height for this type of shoe can be up to 45 mm. Moderately cushioned shoes have a stack height between 30 mm and 35 mm. Barefoot shoes provide next to no underfoot cushion and may have a "stack height" as low as 3 mm, providing just a thin layer of rubber outsole to protect against abrasive surfaces.

A Side Note on Weight


There is a lot of hype around weight, and while we appreciate a trim and airy feeling shoe, it should not dictate your purchase. Weight is often at odds with other aspects of a shoe, such as cushion/comfort, responsiveness, and support. These features, alongside how the weight is distributed, can have a much bigger impact on how heavy your legs feel 5 miles in.

Highly responsive shoes have less cushioning and, instead, have a design focused on maximizing energy return from each step. A lower profile feels more agile and keeps you moving at a fast clip, while steep rocker angles and springy plates can help propel you forward. Runners who like to keep their workouts short and sweet or experienced runners who frequently participate in 5k or 10k races will probably love a shoe with higher responsiveness scores, even if it means sacrificing some comfort.

running shoes - the novablast 4 is a prime example of a design that balances comfort...
The Novablast 4 is a prime example of a design that balances comfort and responsiveness to create a versatile running shoe.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey

Stability


Support differs from shoe to shoe and is influenced by geometry, base width, foam density, and sometimes added internal stability structures. Neutral, stability, and motion control shoes offer varying levels of support; most of the shoes we test fall within the neutral category. Stability and motion control shoes are meant to address issues with over or underpronation, and it helps to understand basic running mechanics when deciding how much support is right for you.

The Brooks Adrenaline offers a stable base that encourages proper gait adjustment when needed.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

Pronation is the slight inward roll of your foot that helps to absorb and lessen the impact on the joints. A moderate amount of pronation is a natural part of a runner's stride, and most neutral shoes are designed to accommodate this motion. However, if this rolling motion is exaggerated or minimized, it can lead to injury down the road. Overpronation is when the foot rolls too far inward, misaligning the ankle, knee, and hip joints. This often happens to runners with lower arches or more flexible feet, and when looking at the sole of your shoe, you will see excessive wear on the inner edge. Underpronation is the opposite and happens when the arch of the foot does not flex as much as it should, causing runners to land more toward the outer edge of the foot. If you underpronate, you may see excessive wear on the outer edge of your shoe.

When to Replace Your Running Shoes


The general recommendation is to replace your running shoes every 300-500 miles. Telltale signs from your body that you need new shoes include getting hotspots or blisters where you didn't before and feeling more achy than usual after your long runs. You can also check out the wear on the shoes themselves. If the tread on the outsole is worn down and there are visible wrinkles in the foam in the midsole, your shoes are ready to retire.

Stability shoes can be helpful in correcting mild overpronation. Shoes in our testing that score higher in stability feel solid and secure underfoot. They tend to be a bit more rigid, feature wider footbeds, or have stiffer foam, all of which are meant to minimize unnecessary movements that could cause overuse injuries. That said, there is evidence that running in a rotation of two to three different shoes can be more effective at injury prevention than wearing stability or motion-control shoes. The best way to know how much you should prioritize stability in your shoe is to have your gait analyzed by a professional.

running shoes - finding the perfect fit can make the difference between a great...
Finding the perfect fit can make the difference between a great workout and a run cut short due to blisters, hot spots, or other discomfort.
Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Importance of Fit


Fit is likely the most valuable factor to consider when buying a pair of running shoes. At the end of the day, the shoe that feels the most comfortable is the right shoe for you. There is even evidence that suggests wearing more comfortable shoes is associated with better running economy. On that note, the fit of your running shoes will be different than that of your casual shoes. Your running sneakers should feel snug in the heel and midfoot but have enough room in the forefoot and toebox that you could "play the piano with your toes." There should be about 1/2 to 1 inch of extra length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, allowing enough wiggle room for your toes to splay naturally through your stride.

We take measurements of width, length, and toebox volume to help you determine the best fit for your foot type.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

You will find that sizing isn't always consistent across brands. Some run large, and some run small. Some brands are known for having narrow-fitting shoes, while others have a wide and roomy toe box. Because each model has a slightly different profile, we recommend purchasing shoes from a location where you can try them on first or going through a website with a good return policy. Try on shoes at the time of day you would normally train, wear your favorite running socks, and take them for a quick spin if you can. Over time, you will likely dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.

running shoes - highly responsive shoes are our first choice for speedy track...
Highly responsive shoes are our first choice for speedy track workouts.
Credit: Matthew Richardson

Conclusion


Running is a centuries-old practice that has many mental and physical health benefits, whether you are brand new to the sport, or training for your next ultramarathon. The right pair of shoes is essential to keep you on your feet and on the move, but with the abundance of choices in today's market, it is necessary to do the research before committing to a pair. Luckily, we have researched and tested hundreds of models to find the ins and outs of each pair, and we hope that this list of our favorites will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and running goals.

Ally Arcuri, Nathaniel Bailey, and Matthew Richardson