Best running shoes 2025: expert tested and rated

With so many running shoes out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. From speed and agility to support and style, each shoe offers something unique. While it might be tempting to go for the flashiest or cheapest option, picking the right shoe for your specific needs is key to staying comfortable, supported, and injury-free.

That's where we come in. We’ve spent hours testing dozens of running shoes and we’re here to help you find the best option for your running needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what makes each shoe stand out and how different features cater to different types of runners.

Before diving into our top picks, we recommend visiting a local running store for a gait analysis. It’s a free service where specialists assess your movement and foot strike, to help you find the best shoe for your form.

If you already know your gait type and are ready to find your perfect pair, keep reading!

The quick list

How we test the best running shoes

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

We put running shoes to the test by doing what we know best—running in them! While choosing the right shoe depends on your feet and running style, our experience with testing the market’s top models over the years helps us spot the standouts.

Each shoe is tested for at least 30 miles, during which we assess them for performance, comfort, and fit. We take them through a variety of runs to see how they hold up at different paces and distances. We also check how they handle on various terrains, from slick roads to muddy trails.

Finally, we factor in the price, comparing it to other shoes in the same category to ensure you’re getting the best value

The best running shoes you can buy today

For some categories we couldn't pick just one running shoe for each so make sure to scroll through the full guide to find out which brands and designs made our list and why.

Best running shoe overall

If you're searching for a running shoe that effortlessly balances comfort, speed, and value, look no further than the Asics Novablast 5. Whether you're just starting out or logging your 100th mile of the week, this shoe rises to the occasion with a perfect blend of softness, support, and speed.

We’ve tested every version of the Novablast, and this latest model refines what already made the shoe great. The FF Blast Max Plus midsole provides a soft yet stable ride, absorbing impact without feeling mushy. Compared to the Novablast 4, the updated heel bevel makes landings feel smoother, especially for heel strikers. It’s plush without being sluggish, so you can use it for easy miles, long runs, and even some faster efforts.

Another standout feature is how lightweight the shoe is for its level of cushioning. At just 9.6oz (men’s size 10), it competes with firmer, speed-focused trainers while still offering the comfort of premium cushioned models like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26. The updated outsole also grips well in wet conditions so you have yourself a reliable year-round option.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Asics Novablast 5 review

Best running shoe for marathon training

The Brooks Glycerin Max is the most cushioned running shoe Brooks has ever made, and a perfect companion for marathon training. With a high stack of cushioning—45mm at the heel and 39mm at the forefoot—this is a running shoe that provides plenty of shock absorption to keep your legs feeling fresh over long distances.

Despite all that cushioning, the shoe doesn’t feel overly heavy, thanks to its rockered design, which helps you roll smoothly from heel to toe. While it’s not the fastest option for speedwork, it can still handle tempo runs and feels stable even on long efforts.

The Glycerin Max also features Brooks' nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned foam, which is designed to offer both cushioning and responsiveness. The midsole uses larger, softer foam cells in the heel for a plush landing, while smaller, denser cells in the forefoot adding to a snappier toe-off.

Combined with a breathable mesh upper and a padded heel collar for added support, this shoe delivers a comfortable and stable ride for runners tackling high-mileage training.

Tester: Jessica Downey, Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Brooks Glycerin Max review

Best running shoe for beginners

If you're new to running and looking for a no-fuss, no-frills shoe, the Saucony Ride 18 is a great place to start. You don’t need to wade through the noise of max-cushioned, carbon-plated super shoes—this is a reliable daily trainer that’s comfortable, protective and has just plenty of bounce to keep you going.

The PWRRUN+ midsole (the layer between the bottom and top of the shoe that absorbs impact) delivers a well-balanced mix of comfort and responsiveness. During testing, I clocked a variety of runs including a couple of 15+ mile runs, and this shoe kept the life in my stride right to the end. It’s not the speediest for interval sessions, but it still has a nice pop and works as a great all-rounder.

The Ride 18 fits true to size, with wide-fit options and a refreshed upper that’s stretchier, more breathable, and cushioned around the heel for extra comfort. Plus, despite the Ride 18 being an upgrade, Saucony has launched it at $5 less than the Ride 17.

Not only is this a versatile and reliable pick for beginners, but it’s also an easy fuss-free ride for experienced runners who want good bang for their buck.

Tester: Jessica Downey

• Read our full Saucony Ride 18 review

Best running shoe for racing

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is our pick for the best racing shoe because it delivers everything you want on race day: speed, bounce, and a lightweight feel that propels you forward. We put this shoe through its paces in tough training sessions, including tempo runs and long progression workouts, and it consistently felt fast, bouncy, and propulsive.

Hoka made significant changes to the original Cielo X1 to make the 2.0 a true competitor among carbon-plated racing shoes. It is noticeably lighter, dropping from 8.9oz to 7.5oz in a men’s US 9.5, creating a difference in how quick and effortless it feels at high speeds.

The shoe has an aggressive rocker shape that propels you forward with each stride. Meanwhile, the dual-layer PEBA foam uses two lightweight, springy layers that absorb impact and bounce back, giving you a responsive feel ideal for race day.

Grip has also improved, with Hoka using a new sticky rubber outsole that offers better traction on wet roads. However, stability takes a hit compared to the original. The shoe has a narrower base and large cutouts to save weight, making it best suited for runners who prioritize speed over support.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

Best running shoe for flat feet

The Saucony Hurricane 24 is an impressive cushioned stability shoe designed for those who prioritize comfort and support during their runs. It’s a significant upgrade from its predecessor, featuring a higher stack height, an updated rocker, and improved midsole foams, which make it one of the most comfortable shoes for easy and long runs. While it's a bit heavier than some other options on the market, our testing proved to us that the extra weight is offset by the plush cushioning and smooth ride it provides.

The dual-density midsole, which uses Saucony’s PWRRUN PB foam for a soft and bouncy feel, and a firmer PWRRUN frame for added support, ensures that your foot feels cradled during every step. The wide base and high sidewalls of the shoe add to its stability, making it an excellent choice for runners who overpronate or those who need additional support, even on longer runs.

What stood out the most during our testing was the smooth rocker, which creates an effortless transition from heel to toe. This feature really helps make longer distances feel more manageable, allowing you to keep moving comfortably without tiring quickly.

Although the Hurricane 24 may not be the best option for fast-paced runs due to its heavier weight, it truly excels in easy miles and long runs, offering a cushioned and stable ride. Neutral runners can also enjoy the comfort it provides, despite being a stability shoe, as the support comes from its design rather than traditional medial posts.

Tester: Jessica Downey, Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Saucony Hurricane 24 review

Best sustainable running shoe

Finding a high-performing pair of running shoes made from environmentally conscious materials can be a real challenge. Sustainable materials can struggle to match the durability, flexibility, and lightweight properties of common synthetic alternatives. However, the Veja Condor 3 stands out as an exception.

We found the Condor 3 to be exceptionally comfortable for our daily miles, with eco-friendlier materials such as recycled polyester, sugar cane, and Amazonian rubber. The midsole, which combines sugar cane-based EVA and Amazonian rubber, provides a spongy feel and a smooth, cruisey ride. This shoe is perfect for easy, relaxed runs, can handle longer distances too, and has become a favorite walking shoe of mine. That said, it's a bit on the bulkier side, making it less ideal for speed work.

In addition to its performance, the Condor 3 scores high on style—no surprise, coming from a French footwear brand. It's the kind of running shoe that looks just as good off the track as on it, without screaming "I'm a runner!" We've received plenty of compliments on its aesthetic, from runners and non-runners alike.

While it might be a bit pricier than some less versatile trainers, the cost feels justified when considering the sustainable materials and practices behind both the brand and the shoe.

Tester: Jessica Downey

• Read our full Veja Condor 3 review

Best value running shoe

This upgraded version of Brooks' softest shoe upholds the series' reputation as a comfortable every day pair. They're slightly lighter than the Brooks Glycerin 20, but with the same 10mm drop.

They also retain the previous edition's DNA Loft V3 midsole foam, making them ideal for short runs or long slow-paced sessions. But they're supportive enough for when you need to pick up some speed as well.

There are some modest upgrades elsewhere, with a redesigned upper which is just as comfortable as before, but feels slightly thicker and less breathable. Still, the new padding on the tongue and heel collar felt comfortable during our testing.

Overall, we found that the Glycerin 21 kept the Glycerin 20's focus on durability and comfort, but the lower weight was a welcome change. There may not be enough difference to warrant an upgrade from the 20, but the Glycerin 21 are an excellent, budget-friendly introduction to every day running shoes.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Brooks Glycerin 21 review

Best running shoe for versatility

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is a true all-rounder for runners of all levels looking for a shoe that can handle everything from easy miles, to longer sessions, to tempo runs. Having tested it across a variety of runs, I found it delivers the perfect balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and comfort.

At the heart of the 1080v14 is Fresh Foam X, New Balance’s premium cushioning. Having tested this shoe's predecessor, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13, I found the v14's foam provided a soft yet slightly firmer feel. This means it absorbs impact well on long runs but still has enough spring to keep you moving smoothly when picking up the pace. The shoe’s rocker-like shape helps create a smooth transition from landing to toe-off, making each stride feel natural and effortless. This is especially useful if you’re running on tired legs or working on maintaining good form over longer distances.

Unlike some max-cushioned shoes that can feel overly plush or bulky, the 1080v14 finds the sweet spot between softness and responsiveness. The wider base adds extra stability and the breathable triple-jacquard mesh upper holds the foot securely without feeling restrictive.

While it’s not the lightest shoe, it feels balanced and comfortable across different paces. Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable first running shoe or a seasoned runner wanting a durable, cushioned trainer, this shoe delivers.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full New Balance 1080v14 review

Best stability running shoe

The Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 is a well-cushioned stability shoe that delivers support without feeling rigid. Its wider base and dual-density midsole provide extra stability, and make it a solid choice for runners who need more support, whether they overpronate or just prefer a steadier ride. The plush Nitro foam midsole is both soft, responsive, and comfortable whether you're eating up big miles in this shoe or cruising through some easy, recovery miles.

While heavier than its predecessor, the extra weight comes from a higher stack height and reinforced structure, which we found is what makes this a fantastic stability shoe. Meanwhile, the PumaGrip outsole offers excellent traction making sure you feel secure in wet and slippery conditions. A secure, well-padded upper adds to the overall comfort, while a sturdy heel counter locks the foot in place without feeling restrictive.

Though designed as a stability shoe, the ForeverRun Nitro 2 also works well for neutral runners who simply appreciate a cushioned and supportive daily trainer. We found in testing that it's best suited for easy and long runs, though it can handle some faster efforts if needed.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2

Best trail running shoe

After testing the Hoka Speedgoat 6, we found it offers a solid mix of comfort and performance for various trail conditions and is what we look for in a pair of the best trail-running shoes. It’s available in six colors for both men’s and women’s versions, with most options offered in both standard and wide widths.

The midsole is crafted from CMEVA, which is similar to the Speedgoat 5’s but with updated properties: it’s firmer, lighter, and slightly more responsive. In our experience, the feel remains comfortable, though the firmer material gives it a more agile edge, particularly useful for faster-paced trail sessions.

As with many Hoka models, the Speedgoat 6 runs slightly narrow in the toe box, which we noticed during longer test runs. For those who prefer a bit more room—especially if you’re tackling ultramarathons—you might consider sizing up a half size for added comfort.

Our overall thoughts on the Spedgoat 6 is it's a trail shoe versatile enough for anything from ultramarathons to quick, short trail races and everything in between.

Tester: Nick Harris-Fry

• Read our full Hoka Speedgoat 6 review

How to choose the best running shoes for you

When it comes to finding the best pair of running shoes for you, there are a few different things to consider. Firstly, how you run. Before investing in a pair of shoes, it's a good idea to head to a running store and have your gait checked. If you overpronate dramatically, you might be better off in a stability shoe to prevent injury.

Secondly, where you plan on running. If you're planning on doing most of your miles on the pavements around your neighbourhood, you'll want a road shoe that's designed to help cope with the impact.

If you're hoping to go off exploring in the trails, you'll want a trail shoe with an outsole designed to be grippy on rocky, muddy and wet terrains. If it's a PB you're after, you're likely to want a racing shoe, which will have various features designed to get you a fast finish, for example, carbon fiber plates and snappy, reactive midsoles.

Lastly, how often you run. A marathon runner will have different requirements when shopping for running shoes than a runner who clocks the odd 5K. If running isn't really your thing, it's just something you do in the gym now and again, you'll probably want a more affordable shoe.

Also tested

Brands are constantly releasing new running shoes onto the market, and we strive to test as many as we can. Not every pair makes our list because it's our job to weigh up which are worth your money.

If you want to see some other good options that may have something you like in them, here are other options that didn't quite make the cut.

Hoka Skyward X
We had good fun running in the Hoka Skyward X. It’s an extremely cushioned shoe that also provides stability and smooth transitions. However, its massive stack height is a little too heavy for faster training sessions and race day and we think you can find a better alternative for less.

Read our full Hoka Skyward X review

On Cloudsurfer 2

The On Cloudsurfer 2 didn’t make our list because it’s not as versatile for faster paces, which held it back from snagging the crown as the best daily trainer. However, it’s still a fantastic option for comfortable, effortless runs that feel great.

Read our full On Cloudsurfer 2 review

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