There's a lot to consider when looking for the best running shoe for you. Factors such as your running gait, training load, style, budget and much more comes into play. So to whittle things down, we've tested dozens and dozens of running shoes and rounded up the ones we think are actually worth your money.
Our team has years of experience testing running shoes, from experienced marathon runners to enthusiastic parkrunners, and the everyday runners who simply love the joy of running. Before including any shoes in our guide, we rigorously test each pair across various paces, distances, and terrains, checking for their comfort, performance, and overall value.
This year, we’re particularly impressed with the Saucony Ride 17, which is currently number one in our guide, it's a comfy and reliable daily trainer that both beginners and more experienced runners can enjoy getting plenty of wear out. But, we have lots more recommendations to offer for all kinds of runners. Read on to find out more.
The quick list
The Saucony Ride 17 is a superbly versatile shoe that we think is a shoe for most runners. It's a running shoe that performs well across a range of runs including easy miles, speed sessions and longer routes. It boasts Saucony's foam tech called PWRRUN+ foam, which is a lighter and bouncier foam than the brand's predecessor.
This is Nike's answer to a running shoe that can do a little bit of everything. It's a little bit heavier than the Saucony Ride 17, hence why it didn't take the crown for best overall running shoe. However, it's still a responsive, versatile shoe that we found to feel very protective in our testing.
The Brooks Ghost 16 may not be the flashiest shoe, but it's a favorite for beginners thanks to its cushioned midsole, stable ride, and comfortable fit.
The Saucony Hurricane 24 is one of the most comfortable running shoes out there, with a stable design that’s perfect for everything from easy runs to longer distances. Its smooth rocker helps you effortlessly glide through your miles even when the legs are sore.
Veja are a brand that pride themselves on making shoes with eco-friendly and sustainable materials and this is the best Veja running shoe we've tested to date thanks to the Condor 3's supreme comfort.
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Known as being Brooks’ ‘softest shoe’, the Glycerin is one of the most popular running shoes around, and the Glycerin 21 is our favorite version of the shoe yet.
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A responsive, stable race-day shoe, that we’d say is the best Saucony has ever made. It’s got an extremely lightweight upper and has a good amount of bounce underfoot.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 wins the most versatile running shoe award for us — its plush cushioning keeps you comfortable on long runs, while its lightweight design lets you pick up the pace for speed sessions and anything in-between.
With its broad platform and cradling midsole, the Saucony Guide 17 offers a stable and comfortable ride. This is an excellent shoe for any overpronators or those who prefer a firmer feel.
The Nike Vaporfly Next% 3 is an extremely versatile race day shoe, that’ll help you pick up the pace. It’s fast, and more stable underfoot than the Alphafly.
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is a versatile trail shoe that provides reliable traction across varied terrain, from muddy forest paths to rugged mountain trails. It boasts comfort on long runs while remaining lightweight for quicker off-road miles.
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How we test the best running shoes
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
The Saucony Ride 17 is a dream daily trainer and introduces significant upgrades from the Ride 16, notably the transition to Pwrrun + midsole foam, designed to provide a perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This means each step feels light and bouncy, making your runs feel smooth and effortless.
The revamped engineered mesh upper enhances midfoot lockdown and heel comfort without compromising on flexibility or support. Featuring a stretchy, gusseted tongue and a moderately cushioned yet stiff heel counter, the Ride 17 ensures a snug fit and mile-after-mile comfort.
One minor gripe experienced during testing is the lacing system which loosened during runs. Nevertheless, once adjusted, the shoe excels across diverse running scenarios, from long marathon-training sessions to brisk commutes and speed workouts.
The Ride 17 strikes an impressive balance between cushioning and responsiveness, courtesy of its enhanced midsole foam, offering a soft and bouncy feel. Its smooth midfoot-to-forefoot transition, coupled with a subtle rocker geometry in the forefoot, offers up a nice and efficient forward propulsion.
In our eyes, the Saucony Ride 17 delivers excellent value for money, providing a versatile and high-performing daily trainer with premium features at an affordable price, making it a wise investment for runners of all levels.
- Read our full Saucony Ride 17 review
Best Nike running shoe
The Nike Pegasus line continues a long-standing reign of being one of the most popular and versatile running shoes on the market, now in its 41st iteration. This latest model, Nike Pegasus 41, improves on past versions, and while there are speedier or more cushioned options available, we found during testing that the Pegasus 41 excels as a well-rounded, everyday trainer.
It's particularly great for new runners, thanks to its updated ReactX foam midsole, which delivers soft, responsive cushioning and provides ample protection and comfort for longer or easier runs. More seasoned runners will also appreciate the shoe's versatility, whether it be making a recovery run, a light tempo run or a long run, the Pegasus 41 is a dependable shoe. The ReactX foam also offers a slight energy boost compared to the older React foam, while being eco-friendly, with Nike reducing the carbon footprint of the midsole by 43%.
One of the standout qualities of the Pegasus 41 is its durability. The shoe’s sturdy outsole ensures long-lasting grip, even on wet pavements or light trails, making it a reliable companion for your miles. It’s also stylish and cushioned enough for casual use, whether for walking or running errands. Plus, it frequently appears at discounted prices during sales.
- Read our full Nike Pegasus 41 review
Best running shoe for beginners
The Brooks Ghost 16 continues the Brook's reputation of producing a dependable, versatile running shoe, perfect for runners seeking comfort and durability in a daily trainer. A significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Ghost 16 features a new midsole made from a nitrogen-infused foam also found in the Brooks Glycerin 21. This results in a lighter, more responsive shoe that offers better energy return compared to the previous Brooks Ghost 15 model.
During our testing, the Ghost 16 proved to be a reliable option for both long, steady runs and speed sessions. The shoe's midsole strikes an excellent balance between softness and responsiveness, while the grippy RoadTack outsole ensures reliable traction on wet and dry surfaces. It’s perfect for runners of all levels, but we think new runners will especially appreciate the extra cushioning, which helps protect against injuries that can happen when using muscles that aren’t used to running yet.
One thing to note is the Ghost 16’s high 12mm heel-to-toe drop, which is higher than many modern daily trainers. This might feel less natural for runners who prefer a lower drop or a more rockered profile. However, for those who favor a traditional feel, the Ghost 16’s smooth ride and stability make it a solid choice.
- Read our full Brooks Ghost 16 review
Best cushioned running shoes
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.
- Read our full Saucony Hurricane 24 review
The Cloudmonster sounds, and looks, a little silly, with its thick wedge of CloudTec. Monster by name and monster by nature, this shoe is huge, but it doesn’t feel it underfoot. Designed for easy runs and long training miles, On has gone for big energy return in its maximalist shoe.
The Cloudmonster is designed to feel cushioned underfoot with On’s latest cushioning material, called Helion. Made from a mix of two different foams (EVA and OBC), which still has a good amount of energy return. The midsole contains On’s CloudTech pods and On’s Speedboard, which is a thin, snappy, thermoplastic layer, designed to help for a faster toe-off. It's definitely more of a long-run shoe than a speed shoe, however.
I trained for my first marathon in the On Cloudmonster, and they kept my feet and legs feeling so comfortable that I chose them for race day, too. While plenty of factors contributed to my sub-four finish (3:48), the Cloudmonsters definitely played a key role.
Fit-wise, the shoe does come up pretty short in the foot, so if you're between sizes, you might want to size up to ensure you don't get any uncomfortable pinching at the toes. We also found during testing that the high stack height led to slight overpronation at the end of long runs, on tired legs, so we wouldn't recommend these for runners who usually wear a support shoe.
All in all, a brilliant easy run shoe for those ploddy miles when you want to get lost in the run.
- Read our full On Cloudmonster review
For a shoe to be on its 25th iteration, it must be doing something right, yet Asics has given its popular neutral running shoe a serious facelift. Asics has called its Gel-Nimbus 25 its "most comfortable running shoe yet" — its added new PureGEL technology and more of its FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning. It's our favorite version on the Nimbus to date and if you're looking for a super plush, super comfortable running shoe for easy miles, this is a strong contender.
During testing, we were impressed. Asics has transformed this neutral running shoe into something exciting. I looked forward to running in it for long and easy miles. The one downside with this shoe is that it’s definitely not a jack of all trades. All that plushness makes it a little on the spongey side when you’re trying to pick up the pace, and faster runners might be put off by this. At $160, it’s also pretty expensive for an everyday running shoe.
That said, if you're looking for a max-cushioned shoe, perfect for easy miles and long runs, this will tick all the right boxes.
- Read our full Asics Gel Nimbus 25 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.
- 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.
- Read our full Brooks Glycerin 21 review
Best running shoes for speed
The Endorphin Pro 3 sees Saucony completely overhaul its most popular carbon fiber road racing shoe. The brand has changed the upper, and added more PWRRUN PB foam underfoot to completely change the ride of the shoe — it’s extremely fast, yet comfortable on the run.
The upper has also been overhauled to more of a mesh — it’s pretty much see-through and during testing I found it to be one of the most breathable uppers on the market. This shoe is fast and comfortable, in a way the Endorphin Pro 2 never really was — it feels bouncy and responsive on the run, yet stable enough to wear for a track session, or a twisty-couse.
We found the shoe does come up a little short in the foot, so it might be worth sizing up half a size. It's also built for race day, so this one won't be as durable as other running shoes on the list, but if you can afford it, it's a great shoe to have on your feet on the start line.
- Read our full Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 review
The Asics Superblast 2 is a stellar choice for runners looking to add a little speed to their training without compromising on comfort. Designed with a high stack of bouncy foam, this shoe provides a cushioned and responsive ride, making it ideal for both long runs and faster training sessions.
Its standout feature is the dual-density midsole, which includes a layer of FF Turbo+ foam—similar to what's used in Asics' high-performance racing shoes. This foam adds an extra spring to each step, helping runners maintain a lively pace over a range of distances. Meanwhile, the bottom section is a layer of which is a foam you’ll find in popular cushioned shoes like the Asics Gel-Kayano 31.
The absence of a carbon plate also means you can enjoy wearing this shoe during easier runs, offering you a pretty versatile speed shoe.
The shoe's AHAR Plus rubber outsole offers reliable traction for running on both wet and dry surfaces, and its breathable mesh upper ensures that your feet stay cool during longer runs.
If you’re someone who likes to save the carbon tech for race day then we think you’ll get good use out of the Asics Superblast 2. We will warn you now though that it’s got quite a hefty price tag on it for a training shoe.
- Read our full Asics Superblast 2 review
Best running shoe for versatility
It goes without saying, you don’t have to own multiple pairs of running shoes to be a runner. While some people might invest in multiple pairs for different sessions, if you’re new to running or are on a budget, you’ll still be able to build fitness and train for races with only one pair in your closet. Plus, if you’re looking for that one pair, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 is a brilliant shoe to invest in.
A seriously versatile shoe, the New Balance 1080v13 is soft and plush enough to keep you comfy on your long runs, but can also pick up the pace when you need it for faster tempo sessions. Compared to the New Balance 1080v12, the New Balance 1080v13 has more of the brand's Fresh Foam X midsole foam, and the stack height is larger, yet the shoe has gotten lighter.
The downside here is that the shoe is slightly more expensive than the previous iteration. That said, during testing we were pleasantly surprised by the 1080v13 — it’s a comfortable running shoe, that could easily be worn for anything from a 5K to a marathon. It’s a brilliant example of what you’d expect from an everyday running shoe and a reminder that you don’t need multiple running shoes in your closet to train well for a race.
- Read our full New Balance 1080v13 review
Best stability running shoe
Engineered with a wide platform and high sidewalls, we found the Guide 17 offered a stable and secure fit that cradled the foot to help stabilize each landing. The design of the shoe is complemented by Saucony's Center Path Technology, which is there to help keep the foot aligned during runs.
The shoe features Saucony’s PWRRUN+ midsole, which we found to provide a good balance of cushioning and support during testing across our long, easy, and recovery runs.
While the cushioning isn't highly responsive, the Guide 17 is a comfortable shoe designed to carry you over a range of distances and has extra features to enhance this such as roomy toe box. The shoe also boasts a breathable upper, which helps keep feet cool and comfortable in a mix of conditions.
Overall, the Saucony Guide 17 is a reliable stability shoe perfect for those needing extra support and cushioning on their easy and long runs.
- Read our full Saucony Guide 17 review
Best running shoes for race day
It doesn't get better than the Nike Vaporfly Next% 3 on race day. There's a reason why you'll see this shoe a LOT at every major road marathon — they are one of the most popular racing shoes around, and it's easy to see why. The ZoomX foam — the lightest and most responsive midsole Nike makes, plus there’s a full-length carbon fibre plate which helps for a faster toe-off. The shoe feels fast, it’s incredibly lightweight and fits true to size.
The drawback here, of course, is the price — these shoes are definitely an investment and one that might not actually last you for too many miles. While Nike doesn't give an exact figure, as a race day shoe, it's often thought that you won't get all that many miles out of these, so we wouldn't recommend them for your training miles. That said, if you can afford them and you're looking for a PR, you won't be disappointed.
If you're looking for a bargain, now might be a good time to buy the Vaporfly Next% 2, which is likely to be on sale now the newer shoe, with a slightly tweaked design, has been released. Read our Nike Vaporfly Next% 2 vs Nike Vaporfly Next% 3 face-off to help you choose.
- Read our full Nike Vaporfly Next% 3 review
If you're a runner seeking a comfortable and stable shoe for conquering long distances look no further than the New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4. We put these shoes to the test during the London Marathon this year and felt the shoe's excellent ability to deliver both plush cushioning and a secure fit. Two features that translates to a confident ride throughout your race, allowing you to focus on maintaining pace and crushing your goals.
The secret to the FuelCell SC Elite v4's success lies in its construction. A carbon fiber plate propels you forward with each stride, maximizing your efficiency. Meanwhile, the responsive foam midsole absorbs impact, keeping your legs fresh over the miles. The upper is crafted from a lightweight, breathable mesh, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry during even the most demanding races.
While some racing shoes prioritize raw speed over comfort, the FuelCell SC Elite v4 strikes a balance. If you're a marathoner seeking a shoe that will get you to the finish line feeling strong and supported, the New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4 deserves a spot on your shortlist.
- Read our full New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4 review
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.
- 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 fibre 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.
FAQs
How should running shoes fit?
We spoke to Tony Poland, an expert in sports, rehabilitation, and recovery bodywork who has served on the US Olympic Medical Support Teams in London and Tokyo and on the US Olympic Committee Medical Team in Rio de Janeiro.
"You’re going to want a snug fit everywhere except at the toe. Don’t be afraid of a little extra room around the toes. You want some space in the toe box because too much constriction can lead to injury," Poland explains.
"Your toes should not hit the end of your shoe at rest, and you should always be able to wiggle them around." According to Poland, this is a very foreign concept to most people.
Often people end up wearing shoes that are actually too small. When in doubt, try out a shoe in your usual size, then try one a half size up from that.
How long should a pair of running shoes last?
Speaking to Poland, he tells us that a general rule of thumb is three to four months. However, it's also important to note that everyone’s load is different so this time frame can vary. He says there are a few indicators that can help you assess when to replace your shoes and these include:
If the tread (the pattern or design on the outsole) is wearing down. Check out the bottoms of your shoes. If they’re smooth with little to no grip left, it’s time to replace them. Tread can be an indicator of the health of the rest of your shoe. If the tread is gone, know that the structure inside the shoe is breaking down a lot as well.
If the top is fraying or thinning out. Don’t just look at the bottoms of your shoes - it’s possible to wear out the tops of your shoes as well depending on how your toes articulate. Is the woven top of your shoe fraying? It may be time to replace them.
Check the insole. Is the padding gone? Do they feel flatter? Is the arch support no longer prominent? In general, if the appearance of the insoles is significantly different now than when you bought them, (i.e. cracked or very broken in) it’s likely they’re worn out. While you’re doing this, also check to see which areas are the most worn down. This will help you determine where you place most of your weight when you run, which can help when buying a new pair.
How are you feeling? If you have pain in your feet or lower back after a run, that’s a pretty good indicator that you need to change your shoes.
What is a zero drop running shoe?
The drop of a running shoe is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. So, a zero drop shoe means that there's no drop and the shoe (and your foot) sits flat against the ground. These are popular with runners that prefer the feeling of barefoot runs.
What is a neutral running shoe?
For a long time, running shoe brands categorized their shoes are neutral or stability, and which you'd choose would depend on whether your foot rolled over your ankle as you hit the ground (overpronation).
Stability shoes often have a hard medial post alongside the arch of the shoe, while neutral shoes are more flexible and cushioned, suited to those who don't overpronate. However, most brands have developed more versatile support designs now.
But many shoes are still termed neutral, so if you have medium or high arches, you might find these more comfortable for running. And there are plenty of insertable insoles you can buy that address overpronation.
Can you use running shoes for walking?
You can definitely head out on a walk in running shoes, but they're generally better suited to everyday walks rather than hiking or extended time outside. If you need something with more ankle support for uneven terrain, consider a pair of the best hiking boots instead.
Are running shoes waterproof?
The best trail running shoes are designed for wet or slippery conditions and are generally water-resistant and quick-drying. But most running shoes aren't, as the focus is on comfort and breathability.
The upper of the running shoe is designed to hold as little moisture (from water, rain or sweat) as possible so that the shoe stays lightweight and comfortable.
Do men’s and women’s shoes fit differently?
There's a perception that men's and women's running shoes are the same, just in different colors. That's not quite right, though. Women's feet are often narrower and smaller, so the women's edition of a shoe reflects this.
It can be hard to spot these differences visually, as they're usually quite minute changes to the fit, construction, and cushioning. However, some high-end race shoes have a unisex fit, designed to accommodate both.
