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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
Whether new to running or a seasoned marathoner, every running journey starts with the right pair of shoes. But how do you know which is the best running shoe for you? 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, you have come to the right spot if you're looking for new kicks. 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 feel free to use the links below to see our detailed comparison of each gender group. We also have a detailed review of the best trail running shoes and a comparison of the best barefoot shoes. Once your feet are ready, 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 April 2, 2024, to add details on each pick from our testing process. We also updated our buying advice to help you make the best choice for your feet.
The Asics Novablast 4 is our favorite do-it-all training shoe; the one all-around favorite running shoe of our expert running shoe testers. Why? It was the most consistent top-performing shoe across the range of our rating metrics that we have evaluated. It scores well in almost everything we consider important in a running shoe purchase decision and it performs well on every surface we ran on and nearly every pace. If we could only have one shoe for all situations, this would be it. And on top of that we love the reasonable price.
The one thing we loved most about the Novablast is its cushioning and landing comfort. In comparing models, we found the Novablast to be well above average on Cushioning and Landing comfort, without losing its responsive edge over the competition. Our running experts describe it as having "..a nicely cushioned landing" and "…comfortable on both easy runs and at a 5K pace." 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. We found it to be 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.
We took the Novablast 4 apart in the lab to get accurate measurements and then used a fog machine to see how well it breathed.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you are looking for an all-around great running shoe for training long or short distances, hard and easy paces, the Novablast 4 might just be the perfect option for you. The Novablast is one shoe that can do it all. We appreciate that a shoe with this level of performance can be such a great value as well; most shoes that scored near it cost $20-120 more. It's an even better value when considering it might keep you from buying multiple running shoes for multiple surfaces and applications.
If you often find yourself on wet roads, this might not be your shoe. We found the grip lacking on wet or slick surfaces; our only complaint about the Novablast. A better shoe for that kind of situation is the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, which we found to have excellent grip on all types of surfaces, even though it isn't as comfortable as the Novablast. Another great all-around shoe we recommend you might take a close look at is the Hoka Mach 5. It is slightly lighter than the Novablast 4 and comes at a similar reasonable price, but it is not as stable or responsive. But, if you're after a single shoe that can do a bit of everything or are just looking for a solid choice for use as a daily trainer, we can't recommend the Novablast 4 enough.
We could provide a laundry list of reasons why the Asics Novablast 4 is being honored as the best all-around running shoe, but we will sum it up in one word for brevity's sake: consistency. The Novablast is a lightweight workhorse of a shoe that is suitable for nearly all running occasions. Want to run a marathon and spend hours slow logging mileage on city streets? The Novablast has you covered. Want to ratchet up your speed and see how quickly you can get your legs moving? The Novablast is full of delightful, trampoline-inspired energy return.
The comfort of the Novablast 4 makes it suitable for long-distance efforts, while its balanced responsiveness allows it to be a do-it-all piece of gear. We love this shoe so much because of the underfoot combination of these two elements. In comparison with other running shoes, the Novablast earned one of the highest scores in comfort, placing it in line with some of the more maximally-minded shoes, but the Novablast rides more like a traditional running shoe. With a 40mm stack in the heel and a 31mm stack in the forefoot, the Novablast provides a lot of cushion between you and the pavement without feeling overdone. One of our lead testers described it in poetic terms, "…the Novablast 4 offers a luxurious edge to your endurance efforts." The configuration and specified placement of the cushioning allow this shoe to be comfortable and peppy, hence our recommendation if you are looking for a well-balanced pair of kicks.
The geometric elements of the updated Novablast make it as responsive as it is comfortable.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
It is not often that we find a shoe that can be considered nearly universal in its comfort and application, but the updated Novablast hits the mark. While no shoe is going to be perfect for every runner in every situation, the Novablast is versatile enough for runners of all kinds to consider. Specifically, we recommend the reconfigured Novablast to runners who are only looking to add one shoe to their collection. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options and specifications available on the market today. If you want a single running shoe that will reliably get you through the long and slow runs, speedy track workouts, and that marathon you've had your eye on, this is the shoe we recommend.
Like many road-specific running shoes, the Novablast lacks the traction necessary for security on wet or slick surfaces. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 has slightly better grip, but not to the extent that a grippy trail running shoe would. Occasional jaunts in damp weather are totally doable in the Novablast, but if your running takes you across slick surfaces on the regular, a crossover trail shoe like the Hoka Torrent 3 might be a better match for you. But for most runners, and most runs, it's hard to go wrong with the Novablast 4. It is the shoe we reach for again and again for its versatility, comfort, and responsiveness on a variety of workouts.
The elements of the new Novablast come together beautifully to create a versatile and comfortable running shoe that is certain to become a mainstay in the world of road shoes.
In the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, Puma strikes a good balance of comfort, responsiveness, and versatility and slaps a wallet-friendly price tag on the whole package, making it our budget pick for men's road shoes. It has a respectable measured stack height of 39 mm and a 10 mm drop, and the midsole features lightweight NITRO foam that we love. The upper has been improved over the last version and is now a bit more breathable. While not the best in any specific metric — its higher weight and lack of stability knocked it down a few points in our testing — we still find this to be a do-it-all kind of shoe that we enjoy running in.
We love the stack composition that Puma put together in this shoe, from insole to out, with the grippy rubber a refreshing surprise for a road shoe. The NITRO foam, which makes up the majority of the underfoot cushion in the Velocity Nitro 3, offers a satisfying bounce back after each footfall. And we appreciate the slight increase in stack height over the last version, giving our joints some well-deserved cushion without feeling too sluggish. The sticky PumaGrip rubber found on the outsole tractions well on a variety of slick surfaces, giving us confidence on wet, icy roads and trails with loose gravel.
When measuring toebox volume we found the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 to be about average, but on foot, it feels narrow relative to other options.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Velocity is a great all-around model. It has a thoughtful balance of cushion, energy return, and features, giving it the potential to fit right into most runners' shoe rotations as well as being a standalone runner. If you aren't the type to splurge on footwear, it is versatile enough to be the only shoe you run in, taking you through a variety of training scenarios from tempo runs to fast-paced track workouts to slow recovery slogs, all without draining your bank account. If you are looking for a jack-of-all-trades shoe, this may be a good choice.
Although it scores above average in most metrics, the downside of versatility is that it doesn't excel in any one area. This is not a specialty shoe. It doesn't have the plush cushion of a maximalist model, it is not a low-slung stability shoe, and it doesn't have the snappy rebound of a race-oriented shoe. So, if you are looking to build out your rotation with condition-specific models, you may not find a niche for the Velocity Nitro 3 in your closet. Also, we didn't notice it on our runs, but the average weight score may also be a deterrent for some. However, none of these details are dealbreakers in our opinion, just things to consider. If you want a bit more of a kick, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 has a carbon plate and a lighter overall weight. It is hard to go wrong with a shoe like the Velocity Nitro 3, especially if you are a runner on a budget who wants one model to get through whatever is on the training schedule for that day.
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, which is why it earned our coveted Best Buy award… again in our women's running shoe review. Our male testers had very similar findings, but the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 just edged ahead of it for an award. Of our test fleet, only the Nike Vaporfly 3 was lighter, and not by much and at over double the price. 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 needing a lightweight daily trainer. The fit is slightly different than previous versions based on its updated responsiveness and stack height increase. We still find it to be one of the most comfortable and unintrusive-feeling kicks in our lineup.
The updated Saucony Kinvara is a lightweight superstar that is perfect for runners who don't want to fiddle with or even think about their shoes as they run. While this might sound like a no-brainer, there are plenty of exceptional shoes on the market that require a bit of tongue-shifting or lace-tying in the field. The Kinvara conforms to the unique shape of your feet, and its durable laces stay tied exactly as they started. At 5.5 ounces per women's size 6.5 shoe, this comfortable mesh and PWRRUN+ running shoe stays snug around your foot, making it a low-maintenance choice.
Though Saucony changed the structure and feel a bit with this version, we remain impressed by the Kinvara's versatility, weightless feel and fit, and price.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Kinvara stands out as an ideal choice for runners seeking a lightweight and responsive shoe tailored for long distances and quick track workouts. This running shoe's impressive blend of versatility and affordability positions it as a compelling option for budget-conscious runners who prioritize high performance on the road. With its peppy design and suitable features, the Kinvara caters to the dynamic needs of runners and even walkers by providing a balanced and cost-effective solution for those looking for a running companion without breaking the bank.
The minimalistic structure of the Kinvara lacks the lateral support that some distance runners may covet. If this detracts from its appeal for you, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a significantly more supportive shoe that scores slightly higher across the board. The outsole rubber on the Kinvara is 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. The difference is noticable, but ultimately did not change our overall experience in the shoe. If you're not attached to the Kinvara 13 and an affordable and peppy daily runner is what you are after, the levity and pep of the Kinvara will treat you and your wallet right.
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.
Our favorite thing about it is the plush 40 mm Helion foam heel that provides luxurious cushioning and a smooth, propulsive ride. Our tester noted it "rolls you forward, almost like dominoes." It delivers a pillowy soft landing with a touch of responsiveness, making it one of the most cushy-feeling shoes we tested. While it can pick up the pace if you need it to, this shoe truly shines on days when you are heading out to log an easy couple of miles in comfort, and the higher stack height may be especially enjoyed by heel strikers.
We cut the Cloudsurfer in half in our lab to measure key parts of the shoe precisely and test for softness and hardness at important locations.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Runners who primarily run on smooth surfaces and maintain slower paces, like threshold or below, might find this sufficient as their only running shoe. But, if you also run on trails or more rough surfaces, then the Cloudsurfer is most effective when added to a rotation with other shoes better suited for stability and abrasive surfaces. Additionally, the Cloudsurfer is a good travel shoe, as its comfort makes it suitable for both running and walking, and it is stylish enough for casual wear after your workout. If you prioritize a very comfortable and smooth shoe for easy runs, the Cloudsurfer is a great choice.
It's not the first shoe we'd prefer for faster-paced timed 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 unstable shoe for trails and uneven surfaces, 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.
It is not often that a shoe scores well in both the comfort and responsiveness categories, so the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is a rare exception. This shoe has a poppy carbon fiber plate embedded into its 26mm (forefoot) - 34mm (rearfoot) stack, allowing it to ride comfortably as the miles add up. While the Nike Vaporfly 3 is slightly more responsive, it lacks the comfort element of the Deviate Nitro, making the Vaporfly a less comfortable and versatile choice. For uptempo training days and comfortable races, the Puma Deviate Nitro is the shoe we reach for - and recommend. Our male testers had a similar high regard for the Deviate. Even though it did not win an award, it was in contention to be the best overall shoe and surprised us with how consistently it scored across all metrics.
Finding a shoe that hits the mark on responsiveness and comfort is not commonplace. The carbon fiber plate inhibits some of the soft, gooey comfort other stacked shoes have, but its firm midsole provides great energy return. If leg turnover is a priority of yours, you will likely love the same elements that we did when it comes to the Deviate Nitro. With an 8mm drop, the combination of speed and comfort comes together to create a rather stable shoe, as well. While not designed for correcting overpronation, the Deviate Nitro feels secure underfoot, further securing its place as a middle distance racing superstar.
We dissect each pair of running shoes so we can assess the integrity of the embedded plates and lightweight foam.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
While we have a litany of praise for the Deviate Nitro, it isn't a shoe we flat-out recommend for all runners because of its specified design features. The combined comfort and speed via a propulsive carbon fiber plate, and your strong, highly trained legs, make the Deviate Nitro a great shoe for runners who are unsure abour racing-focused shoes and want to take a plated shoe for a whirl. It rides a lot more stably than ultra speed shoes and is comfortable enough for distance efforts. Seasoned racers will appreciate the added comfort, stability, and streamlined fit of this updated speed shoe from Puma.
For a speed shoe, the Deviate Nitro is on the heavier side. Each women's size 6.5 weighs 7.02 ounces, which is not a ton, but it is around two ounces more per shoe than the lightest racing shoe in our lineup. While this weight is expected since the Deviate Nitro has added cushion, it can still detract from its appeal if you are after a featherweight pair of racing kicks. If you want a lightweight racing shoe to add to your existing collection of daily trainers, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is a great option. Though less versatile than the Deviate Nitro, it weighs in under 5 ounces (per women's size 6.5) and has a stripped-back upper for ultimate aerodynamics. The Saucony Endorphin 3 is a great middle ground if you want a responsive shoe and some cushion. The Endorphin 3 weighs in at just over 6 ounces, has a 10mm drop, which is slightly higher than the Deviate Nitro and the Vaporfly, both of which have an 8mm differential, and enough cushion to feel comfortable over long distances.
When it's time to let it rip, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is our top choice. Our testers agree that this shoe delivers serious propulsion that will likely lead to personal best times. 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.
This shoe stands out for its lightweight responsiveness that drives you forward. It was the lightest shoe by a significant amount and scored at the top of our men's lineup for responsiveness. Our testers noted that the shoe "throws you forward" and that no other shoe returns as much energy with each step. It was a revolutionary shoe when version 1 was released, and years later, in the third version, we still feel that no other shoe can propel you in the same way.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Vaporfly is for anyone who wants to post their personal best times. Whether you are racing, want to beat your friends on Strava, or want to break your PR in private, this is the shoe we reach for. But you have to pay for it, as these shoes are double the cost of many shoes that don't score that far behind. It's an uncompromising shoe for those who want speed above all else.
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. Depending on your foot strike, you may have mixed feelings about the cushioning. Our testers who land on the forefront feel it is super cushy, and those who land toward the middle of the shoe are less impressed. 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.
The Nike Vaporfly 3 stands out in our women's review as one of the speediest and most responsive shoes our testers have encountered. Its lightweight design and springy midsole foam make it a perfect choice for besting your personal record in an upcoming race. While many racing-style shoes have impressively low weights, the Vaporfly blows the competition away when you compare the numbers. Nike designed this shoe with a minimally cushioned upper and just enough underfoot cushion to keep joints happy on hard pavement. This minimal design is a large part of what makes it one of the lightest shoes on the market.
We reach for this specialty shoe anytime we feel the need for an extra boost in our step. A springy carbon plate gives us a forward rolling motion unlike other shoes we have raced in, bringing it to the top of the pack in terms of responsiveness. We particularly like that the fly plate runs the entire length of the shoe, so you are rewarded with extra spring and propulsion from each step, no matter if you're a heel or toe striker. Just the idea of lacing up this shoe puts us in the mood to go faster.
As soon as we snug the laces on the Vaporfly 3's we know we are in for a soul-crushing, pace-pushing run.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Nike did not waste an ounce of material when designing the upper of the Vaporfly. While we can't say it is the most comfortable, this shoe is a great choice for ultralight addicts who want a weightless running experience. It differs from other trainers in our review in that it feels like a bona fide piece of running equipment that may require some time and experience in order to use it to its fullest potential. As mentioned above, you may find the underfoot cushion more or less comfortable depending on where you land; a more forward strike may feel more supported, while those with a mid-foot strike may be left wanting more. While it is not our first choice for long slogs or recovery runs, we highly recommend it as a specialty shoe to add to your rotation when speed is your priority.
This is not an everyday runner, and if you are not used to wearing plated shoes, your initial steps in the Vaporfly may feel a bit unsteady. For longer, slower training runs, we recommend a shoe with more underfoot stability and comfort in the toe box, such as the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23. That being said, if you are able to adapt to the new feel, the energy return of the Vaporfly 3 is unbeatable, and it is the perfect choice to propel you into new PR territory.
For runners out there who are constantly chasing a new PR, the Nike Vaporfly 3 provides ultimate levels of responsiveness, speed, and energy return that can help you get there.
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 incredible underfoot foot protection offered by this shoe is one of its main selling points. The foam used in the midsole is firm and dense enough to effectively protect the bottom of your foot from sharp objects, even when your landings are extra heavy. Our testers didn't feel the need to be as delicate with their footfalls when barrelling full-speed downhill; this shoe has got you covered. The sturdiness of the foam also means that it wears more evenly and doesn't pack out as quickly, providing great cushion and protection for the long haul. Our female tester also loved the Salomon S/Lab, noting that it is a fantastic shoe for particularly technical or aggressive terrain, but it is a bit light on the cushion, and she would opt for a softer shoe like the Altra Lone Peak 7 for a more comfortable trail excursion.
Here, you can see a crosssection of the dense foam used in the Salomon S/Lab 3 and the measured heel stack height, including insole, midsole, and outsole tread.
Credit: Jessica Riconscente
With above-average scores across the board, it is hard to go wrong with the S/Lab Ultra 3. However, some may categorize it as more of a specialty shoe rather than an ol' reliable type of trainer. If you are an experienced trail addict who is looking for an aggressive and protective trail shoe, the Ultra 3 fits the bill. That said, we think it is a great shoe to add to a rotation, but would not recommend it as your sole trail runner. The firm cushioning provides solid underfoot protection against trails littered with rocks and roots, but it may be overkill for runners who usually stick to packed dirt paths or softer 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.
Thanks to its almost universal comfort, the women's Hoka Torrent 3 is what we recommend for trail runners of all experience and ability levels. Its forgiving architecture, comfortable protection, and durability all come together to make this shoe one of our favorite trail shoes on the market today. 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 and well-equipped for any slick, muddy terrain you might encounter. The lugs remain strong and beefy even when worn in harsh conditions, and the Torrent easily transfers from the trail to the road. This version has a slightly narrower toe box compared to the second iteration. The upper maintains its ability to conform to your foot shape and running style, allowing this version of the Torrent to be just as awesome as previous versions.
We love the versatility of the Torrent 3. From long-distance days in the mountains to short, fire road strides, the Torrent is one of the most well-designed shoes in our lineup. The Torrent has a 5mm drop, which allows your heel to stay close to the ground, reducing the incidence of rolled ankles on sketchy terrain. With a slim 21mm stack in the forefoot, you can feel much of the trail beneath you, further adding to this shoe's user-preference versatility. This is the shoe we consistently choose to train and race in. If a versatile trail companion is what you are looking for, the Torrent 3 comes with our highest accolades. While it was beaten out by the S/Lab Ultra 3 in the men's review, our male running experts still enjoyed running in the Torrent 3, particularly for long pushes.
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
New runners will love how the overall feel of the Torrent 3 is a bit softer than many other high-tech trail shoes. This version of the Torrent is fantastic for those looking to try out a trail shoe that isn't all hard edges and rigid lugs. Even without a rock plate, the Torrent is protective enough for technical trails, but built well enough to protect your joints should you choose to take it onto the pavement. Veteran trail runners will appreciate the comfort and durability of the Torrent 3. It is svelte and snug enough to encourage agility, lightweight enough to help you fly down trails, and comfortable enough to be worn across myriad distances.
If a shoe with a rock plate is what you are after, the Torrent 3 is not going to be a match for you. While the Torrent is plenty protective, it does not have a plate embedded into its outsole for serious protection. Conversely, it also is not the most sensitive shoe on the market. If you are a runner who thrives while running in an ultra-sensitive trail shoe, the underfoot stack of the Torrent might not appeal to you. For prime sensitivity, check out the stripped-back and unisex NNormal Kjerag, the grippy and lightweight (and also unisex Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3, or the sensitive and stable La Sportiva Bushido II. If a comfortable shoe with a wide toe box is more your speed, the Altra Lone Peak 7 and the Topo Ultra Venture 3 will give you a bit more space while providing plenty of traction and support. However, if you don't have width concerns, we don't hesitate to recommend the Torrent 3 to almost every runner out there. Whenever our runs take us out to the backcountry, we trust this shoe to support us the whole way.
The interior of the Torrent 3 is not overly plush, which allows it to feel nimble and refreshing on the trail. This shoe strikes a perfect balance between strength and comfort.
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 and can even handle a jaunt through town on the way to the trail.
Aside from the lower price, a standout feature of this shoe is its stability. The Divide 4 provides a reliable platform to support your hips, knees, and ankles on moderate trails. In this metric, it is one of the best in the group of reviewed trail runners. Our tester liked that the amount of stability "…allowed for relaxation while running and eased the load during long runs." While the stiffness doesn't always translate into great performance on steeper or more aggressive terrain, we trust the shoe to guide good form and efficiency when the miles start to add up on long-distance efforts.
The Brooks Divide 4 shines on well-established, not-too-steep trails, making it a good option for those who are trail-curious.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
With a solid, supportive midsole and a budget-friendly price, the Brooks Divide 4 is an excellent option for those who are new to trail running or for road runners who like to dabble in trails occasionally. It is particularly well suited to runners who live in a mixed-surface environment and usually run on routes that switch between pavement and packed dirt. It provides enough underfoot protection for the trails while limiting the aggressiveness of the outsole tread that would make it unusable on the occasional paved path. Experienced trail runners may find the overall package of the Divide 4 a bit underwhelming, but at the end of the day, this is a shoe that does what it says and won't empty your wallet if you are experimenting with a new hobby.
If your trail running has progressed to a more advanced place, the Divide 4 might leave you wanting more in terms of features and sensitivity. 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. 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. 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.
Our female testers felt the same way as the men — that the Brooks Divide 4 is an excellent choice for newer runners and trail runners on a budget. The price is right, and the traditionally focused fit is a crowd-pleaser, especially if you are accustomed to running in road running shoes. Comfortable with firm cushioning, the Divide is great for simpler dirt trails and has no problem crossing over onto pavement.
The Divide 4 is perfect for those looking to test out a trail shoe without purchasing a pair that looks like they are made for scaling icy cliffs alá the techy Salomon Speedcross 6. This stable and lightweight shoe keeps things simple, which is exactly how running should be. The comfort of the Divide's interior is welcoming enough for double-digit distances, but it is also a perfect shoe for a quick jaunt down to the river. If simplicity and a wallet-friendly buy are on your radar, the Divide might be a great shoe for your trail excursions.
The Divide is a great entry-level shoe for runners who want to dip their toes into the world of trail running without shelling out a ton of cash.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
As mentioned, the Divide is a perfect shoe for new trail runners. We recommend the Divide for new trail enthusiasts because it is not overbuilt like some shoes made for highly technical terrain. Runners seeking a shoe to wear down bike paths or gravely fire roads will enjoy the lug depth and comfort the Divide offers. For a shoe that you can rely on to get you through without breaking the bank, this is our recommendation.
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, cutting down on its sensitivity. If you're just learning the trail-running ropes, this is a great place to start. If you are a veteran trail runner with a hankering for all things technical, you will probably want to stick to a more tech-forward trail shoe/ 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 Saucony Peregrine 13 has a similar and familiar fit with a bit more traction and protection.
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
How We Test Running Shoes
Our primary focus in testing running shoes is to run in them… a lot. Our male and female testers log many dozens of miles in each pair of shoes and choose various terrain types to include in their routes. Collectively, our expert running shoe test team members have logged thousands of miles in close to 500 pairs of running shoes and counting. 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.
The best way to test running shoes is to run in them, a lot, over all kinds of terrain, and see how they stack up in real-world use.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
In addition to running miles and miles in each shoe, we also buy a second pair of each shoe to perform a series of tests in our lab. These lab tests include cutting each shoe in half so we can precisely measure stack heights and heel-to-toe drop, as well as measurements with a durometer to understand the hardness of each shoe's padding. Rather than trusting the manufacturer's measurements, we make all of our own measurements, so every specification we share is collected in a careful apples-to-apples manner. Our lab testing is then combined with our primary focus on running in each shoe, to create a complete 360 analysis of each shoe.
In addition to running miles in these shoes, we closely examine the size, weight, and materials of each model.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Why You Should Trust Us
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 GearLab 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 biomechanical 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 GPS watches, a perfect companion to creating and exploring new trail runs as he tests shoes.
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 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.
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 personal preference and whether you want a multifunctional shoe or are okay with having a different pair of shoes for each activity.
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 and fitness goals will largely dictate which shoe style is the best for you. Suppose your typical run involves a 20-minute morning jog on the paved path around the neighborhood or a quick HIIT workout followed by a walk to the park with your kids. 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. There are differences in men's shoes and women's shoes that consider the biomechanics of each gender. Some models are better for speedwork, and others offer better underfoot cushion to support long distance efforts. The location, frequency, and duration of your run all matter.
Men's Running Shoes
Our lead tester for men's running shoes put each model through it's paces in a range of mid-distance loops, long runs, recovery runs, quick paced workouts, and sprinting sessions. Below are the scores outlined for our men's road running shoes review with some of the best options available today.
Women's Running Shoes
Similarly, our lead women's tester put each shoe through the wringer, totaling a minimum 30 miles in each pair and testing them out in various workouts and environments. All models from our women's road running shoes review are ranked below according to their overall performance score.
Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?
Manufacturers often make specific versions of their shoes for men and women, and you may wonder how different can they be? Is it worth seeking out a male or female-specific shoe? The answer is maybe. Women's specific shoes are not just a smaller version of their men's counterparts. There are a few important design differences made to accommodate the varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs of men and women.
Some shoe models have slight variations between the men's and women's versions.
Credit: GearLab Staff
To start, the average woman is smaller and lighter than the average male, and women's shoes may have a softer midsole with a lighter wearer in mind. On average, men's shoes are wider than women's. However, women's shoe differ in the proportional width, generally featuring a narrower heel cup to help secure the back of the foot and roomier forefoot to allow toes to splay naturally. Women are more likely to overpronate due to the difference in biomechanics and joint mobility relating to the shape of their hips and pelvis, so women's shoes are sometimes more stability-oriented. The narrower heel cup also helps you stay secure in your shoe and guides the foot into a proper landing position.
So, yes, there are differences, but you should never feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. At the end of the day, the best shoe is the one that is most comfortable for you.
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
Trail Shoes
Where do you want to run? When narrowing down your options, this is one of the first questions to ask yourself. Most shoes fall into one of two categories based on the style of running they are designed for; trail runners and road runners. 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 rock plates help to protect your feet from underfoot hazards, and denser midsole foam and lower stack heights help keep you grounded and stable on uneven terrain. 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.
The Brooks Catamount never quite won us over. But its protective exterior kept our feet safe on this long run overlooking Lake Tahoe.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Road Shoes
If you live in a more urban environment or prefer to run indoors on a treadmill, you probably don't need all those additional protective features, and a pair of road shoes is a better choice. They have more plush underfoot cushioning, more breathable uppers, and often have less grippy outsole rubber all of which makes them lighter weight on average. 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. Even still, subcategories exist. We are here to help you further narrow down your options.
Supportive road running shoes are there for you when the miles start to add up.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Each style has its benefits and can help you succeed in the environment where you train the most. However, if you only run occasionally or often participate in multiple sports during the week (or if you have maxed out your shoe budget for the month), you don't necessarily need a different pair of shoes for every activity. Some models can take you from running to biking, hiking, or crosstraining without skipping a beat, and others make great dedicated walking shoes.
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 trail running shoes in our lineup get put to the test on the trails, traversing rocks, logs, steep inclines, and other obstacles.
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.
Midsole Features
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, support, and responsiveness you can expect from a shoe.
A peek inside our running shoe test lab.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Below are some essential terms to know when evaluating the midsole materials and performance.
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.
We cut each shoe in half to measure stack height and examine inner materials.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-toe drop is the difference in height from the heel of a shoe to the toe. Traditional road shoes average around a 10mm - 12mm 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 drop measurements 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/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.
Stack height and heel-to-toe drop are two important measurements that can change the way a shoe feels underfoot.
Credit: GearLab Staff
Zero-drop shoes, especially trail shoes, tend to offer a bit more stability as they discourage ankle rolls over rogue roots and rocks. The lower your heel sits in the shoe, the more inherently stable your body is, as you will be more wholly engaging the rear chain off muscles from your glutes all the way down to your feet. However, runners will tight calves, arches, and plantar fascia are likely to have a somewhat painful adjustment period if they switch from a 12mm drop runner to a zero-drop runner as their muscles gain flexibility and awaken new movement patterns. Conversely, runners who are accustomed to zero-drop shoes will likely experience tenderness as they transition to a shoe with a higher heel lift. No two runners have the exact same anatomy and gait patterns, making important the need to listen to your body as your delve into the nitty-gritty details of the running shoe world.
The Altra Lone Peak 7 is an example of a zero-drop trail shoe, meaning that the heel and forefoot are the exact same height. Zero-drop shoes encourage stability and rear-chain activation, but this does not mean that they are the right choice for all anatomies.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Rocker angle refers to the geometry near the toe of a shoe 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.
The rocker angle of a running shoe can affect the amount of forward momentum and response you feel in each step.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Carbon Fiber and Nylon Plated shoes have a rigid structure running lengthwise through the inner sole, usually made either from carbon fiber or stiff plastic like nylon. Nike has helped make carbon-plated shoes famous with racing shoes like the Next % line and the Vaporfly that have been used to do everything from breaking the 2 hour marathon record in 2017 to resetting distance course records around the world. The sole plates are combined with special energetic foam material to help provide better energy return with each step, and in our experience, plated shoes have a springy, energetic feel that makes them distinctly fast. Many plated shoes are designed for racing or timed training runs, but newer plated shoes are innovating in ways that make them potentially suitable for everyday running. Trail shoes are not typically equipped with propulsive plates, aside from a few exceptions. Many trail shoes include rock plates made of similar materials that can provide additional underfoot protection from sharp rocks and other trail features.
Shoes like the Nike Vaporfly 3 with a plate in the midsole help give you a feeling of forward propulsion with each step.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How Much Cushion is Right for You?
Levels of cushioning range from maximalist to barefoot, with maximalist shoes providing the highest stack heights and the most plush underfoot cushion. Stack height for this type of shoe can be up to 45mm. Moderately cushioned shoes have a stack height between 30mm and 35mm. 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 can be a lot of hype around weight, and while we appreciate a trim and airy feeling shoe, it should not be the sole consideration of 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 tend to 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 sole 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.
The Novablast 4 is a prime example of a design that balances comfort and responsiveness to create a versatile running shoe.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
How Much Support Do You Need?
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; almost all of the shoes we test fall within the neutral category, with a few models offering extra stability features. These types of shoes are appropriate for most runners. Motion control shoes are meant to address issues with severe overpronation or oversupination. If this sounds like you, visit your podiatrist for specialized advice on shoe recommendations.
The Brooks Adrenaline offers a stable base that encourages proper gait adjustment when needed.
Pronation is the slight inward roll of your foot that helps to absorb and lessen the impact on the joints when you land. 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 and placing excessive stress on the muscles on the bottom of the foot. 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.
Supination is the reverse of pronation. The natural outward roll of the ankle happens when you are bounding out of your stride and into the next. Oversupination usually occurs when the arch of the foot is overly tight and does not flex as much as it should, causing runners to put more weight on the outer edge of the foot and placing strain on the muscles and tendons used in ankle stabilization. If you oversupinate, you may see excessive wear on the outer edge of your shoe.
A small amount of pronation is normal, but if you over-pronate or over-supinate, a pair of shoes that offers more stability may be beneficial to your stride.
Credit: Deposit Photos
Stability shoes can be helpful in correcting mild overpronation and oversupination. Shoes in our testing that score higher in stability feel solid and secure underfoot and have features that guide the foot into a more ergonomic landing position. They tend to be a bit more rigid, feature wider footbeds, or have stiffer foam, all of which are meant to minimize unnecessary side-to-side rocking that can lead to injury. 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 stability to look for in your shoe is to have your gait analyzed by a professional and try on multiple shoes based on their recommendations.
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 potentially 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.
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.
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 landing.
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, and wear your favorite running socks. Take them for a quick spin if you can, and always try on both shoes. Over time, you will likely dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.
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.
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Ally Arcuri, Nathaniel Bailey, and Matthew Richardson
