Are you searching for the perfect running shoe? Choosing the right running shoe is a personal process, meaning there is no universal “best” pair for anyone, regardless of what you may hear.
It is essential to discover the ideal running shoe that suits your foot shape (whether it is wide, narrow, high arched, or flat), running technique, and running track if you want to feel at ease while running.
It is crucial to find a running shoe that provides sufficient support and cushioning in addition to a good fit, in order to guarantee your comfort throughout the numerous miles you will run in them.
Using 3D foot scanning technology, Fleet Feet’s personalized fit id® Outfitting process measures various foot factors, including length, width, arch height, and more. With data from over 5 million foot scans, we gain exclusive knowledge about how top brands’ running shoes fit and perform on a diverse range of feet.
Our guide to the finest running shoes will assist you in selecting the ideal pair, whether you require a shoe to begin running, a sturdy trail shoe for your upcoming ultramarathon, or a highly-cushioned daily trainer for weekend jogs.
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is a timeless design offering suitable cushioning for both novice and veteran runners enduring rigorous daily training.
If you want a shoe that offers ample space, resilient support, and infinite cushioning during your runs, then the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is the perfect fit for you. The shoe has been upgraded with ASICS’s most recent edition of FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam technology, making it the gentlest Nimbus ever made. Additionally, the new Pure-GEL technology in the heel effectively reduces the impact of running and enables seamless transitions.
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 is an ideal choice for overall performance, thanks to its adaptable design and comfortable fit.
- What It’s Best For: The Nimbus 25 feels great on long-distance runs or everyday training miles no matter how far you go. It’s perfect for new runners and seasoned marathoners alike and is comfortable enough for people who are on their feet all day.
- Why You’ll Love It: Soft cushioning underfoot and ASICS’ Pure-GEL technology creates a cushioned ride without feeling too mushy. The roomy fit is comfortable for long runs when your mileage starts to increase.
Brooks Ghost 15
The Ghost 15, the latest addition to the Brooks collection, appears to be following in the footsteps of its award-winning and well-liked predecessor, the Ghost sneaker.
No matter what your training regimen looks like, the latest version of the Brooks DNA Loft v2 foam guarantees a smooth and comfortable ride, now even lighter and softer than before. The engineered mesh upper is both light and rugged, while the 3D fit print provides a snug fit around your foot, making the Ghost 15 an outstanding choice for everyday training.
Although the Ghost 15 provides immediate comfort, its grip outsole allows for seamless transitions between lengthy runs, relaxing days, and fast-paced exercises while also increasing responsiveness.
- What It’s Best For: The Brooks Ghost 15 can handle just about anything. The soft DNA Loft v2 foam midsole delivers a buttery ride, while the lightweight upper hugs your foot for comfortable miles.
- Why You’ll Love It: You’ll love the straightforward fit and easy ride. Brooks continues to refine the Ghost to make it a well-rounded running shoe that can take on easy days, long runs, walking and even some faster workouts with ease.
HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 9
For individuals who require comfortable cushioning, shock absorption, and extra space, the HOKA Clifton 9 is a superb choice for running shoes.
The Clifton 9 follows the traditional HOKA style with a substantial layer of EVA foam that offers comfort while running for long distances. However, despite its considerable stack height, this shoe is extraordinarily light and energetic, allowing you to use it for both recovery and speed runs without the need for multiple pairs.
The HOKA Clifton 9 has a spacious toe box and flared heel collar, making it ideal for individuals with varying foot shapes as it prevents any unpleasant rubbing. Our HOKA Clifton 9 review testers were particularly impressed with this small yet significant feature.
- What It’s Best For: The Clifton excels at long runs and quick paces, but it’s just as comfortable for easy cruising or gentle walking. The light weight won’t hold you back, and the cushion can stand up to anything.
- Why You’ll Love It: Cushion, cushion, cushion. The Clifton 9 gives you a lighter, plusher and more energetic ride than ever before. You’ll love the lightweight and protective feel of the EVA foam beneath your feet.
Karhu Ikoni
Not familiar with Karhu? Become trendy with the Ikoni.
Karhu footwear is designed based on 3D scan data of feet, which assists the talented Finnish designers in creating a distinctive level of comfort for individuals with neutral running styles. The midsole foam is exceptionally light and provides ample cushioning for daily running, regardless of the distance.
The Ikoni is an ideal option for those who typically depend on orthotic inserts to achieve a comfortable fit. Additionally, if you desire to retain your inserts, the Ikoni offers a detachable sock liner and ample space for their accommodation.
- What It’s Best For: All of your miles. The Ikoni is a great everyday sneaker, whether you’re training for a race or running to clear your head.
- Why You’ll Love It: The custom-like fit works for many people because it was designed using data from many people. Plus, there’s a wide fit version for runners who need it.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 is a versatile shoe that can be used for long runs and speed training by both novice and experienced runners. It’s easy to fall in love with this shoe.
The 1080 v12 is an excellent option for daily training due to its lightweight design and super-soft, neutral support provided by the Pillowy Fresh Foam. It effectively absorbs the impact of running on pavement, delivering a bouncy feel with every step, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a non-clunky shoe.
With stretchy and supportive parts, the knit upper offers a sock-like fit. The heel of the 1080 v12 has been revamped by New Balance to incorporate a more conventional, cushioned heel counter, resulting in a more comfortable fit. Room for natural toe splaying is provided by the wide forefoot, and the shoe is also available in wide (and extra-wide) sizes.
- What It’s Best For: High mileage and hard efforts, but it’s just as comfortable for beginners dipping their toes in the water.
- Why You’ll Love It: The 1080 v12 is lightweight and soft, giving you the perfect foundation to ramp up your training and finish strong. The stretchy upper doesn’t pinch or squish your foot, so you’re more comfortable when the miles start piling up.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RUNNING SHOES FOR YOU
WHAT SURFACE ARE YOU RUNNING ON?
Road shoes are ideal for those who do their training mainly on pavements. These shoes have greater cushioning compared to lightweight race or trail shoes, which helps to reduce the risk of injury by providing adequate shock absorption.
When traversing marshy paths, it is recommended to wear trail shoes with sturdy soles that provide reliable grip and ankle stability, especially on rough ground. Conversely, these shoes will be awkward on concrete surfaces because the protruding tread will apply pressure on the underside of your feet, causing it to erode easily.
If you plan on running on both roads and mixed trail conditions, it may be wise to contemplate a hybrid running shoe. Such shoes offer a well-proportioned combination of grip and cushioning, making them suitable for both terrains.
HAVE YOU HAD YOUR GAIT ANALYSED?
It is a part of our comprehensive running shoe fitting service in all Runners Need stores to provide a free video gait analysis.
By utilizing video technology for analyzing your running technique, our proficient fitters can evaluate your degree of pronation, which is your foot’s tendency to roll towards the inside while running, and the point of impact of your foot on the ground.
Upon considering your foot shape, pronation, personal preference and terrain, they will suggest the most suitable running shoe among top brands such New Balance and others.
It is crucial to keep in mind that even if the size is identical, every shoe and brand will have a slightly different fit. Ideally, for running, there should be a gap of at least a thumb’s width between the end of the shoe and the end of your longest toe.
ARE YOU WEARING INSOLES?
If you currently use insoles, be sure to take them into account during your fitting as they may alter the fit and sensation of the shoes. If you haven’t experimented with insoles yet, now may be a good opportunity to do so. Insoles enable you to customize the fit to your foot and supply added comfort in the heel, arch, and across the ball of your foot, while reducing issues such as slipping, blisters, hot spots, and shin splints.
By conforming to the shape of your foot, insoles can enhance your workout routine when paired with your sneakers.
ARE YOU WEARING INSOLES?
When getting fitted for footwear, it’s important to consider any insoles you currently use as they can affect the fit and feel. If you haven’t tried using insoles, it may be worth considering as they enable you to customize the fit to your feet and offer extra comfort in the heel, arch, and ball of the foot. They also help prevent issues like slipping, blisters, hot spots, and shin splints.
Insoles are crafted to conform with the shape of your feet and can enhance your workout routine when paired with your sneakers.
Wearing cotton socks while running is not recommended, even though they may be comfortable. This is because cotton absorbs moisture and when combined with heat and friction from running, it can cause blisters, calluses, and hot spots.
Make sure that your socks extend higher than the rear portion of your running shoes to prevent them from sliding down while you run, which can result in painful heat rubs on the back of your heel.
HOW FAR ARE YOU RUNNING?
When preparing for a marathon, you will typically need a different type of running shoe compared to when attempting to improve your 5k record. Running longer distances necessitates a shoe with greater cushioning, whereas a more flexible training shoe can enhance your performance over shorter distances.
CAN I TAKE THEM FOR A TEST RUN?
It’s crucial to thoroughly test running trainers before making a significant investment. Walking around on a carpeted surface inside a store doesn’t accurately reflect how the shoes will perform during an actual run. To ensure a proper assessment, it’s recommended to request trying them out on an in-store treadmill.
DOES BRAND MATTER?
When choosing running shoes, prioritize functionality over fashion. Avoid getting lured by current trends or popular brands.
The brand is important, but solely for ensuring that you are obtaining the appropriate level of comfort, fit, and functionality that suits your needs.
Every brand of running shoes will have slight variations in fit, with some brands being wider than others. To ensure maximum comfort, it is recommended to try on the shoes before making a purchase since even minor differences in fit can make a significant impact.
WHAT TYPE OF RUNNING SHOE DO I NEED?
A great pair of running shoes will offer flexibility, durability and support, regardless of your running style.
The degree of these factors is determined by the category your running shoes fall under, which includes motion control, cushioned, stability, lightweight, and trail.
MOTION CONTROL RUNNING SHOES:
For runners who experience overpronation, motion control running shoes are highly recommended. These shoes are specifically designed to manage the excessive rolling motion of the foot, rectify the gait cycle, and offer extra shock absorption. Moreover, they are typically known for their high level of rigidity.
CUSHIONED RUNNING SHOES:
Runners with underpronation require proper cushioning, as their feet either fail to roll inward sufficiently or roll outward excessively. This rolling action assists in mitigating the impact of each step and prevents the transfer of shock through the joints and spine.
The design of highly cushioned shoes is aimed at emulating the natural process to decrease shock impact.
STABILITY RUNNING SHOES:
Stability shoes aim to strike a balance between motion control and cushioned shoes by offering cushioning, medial support, and durability. Their purpose is to limit excessive foot and ankle movement while allowing for adequate mobility.
LIGHTWEIGHT RUNNING SHOES:
As the name suggests, lightweight running shoes are usually more flexible and lighter in weight. They offer decreased weight and a more supple cushioning system that combines minimalism, allowing you to feel like you are barefoot with features like a mesh upper, and protection, guarding your feet from the impact of running. Wearing lightweight footwear can alleviate discomfort and exhaustion after jogging, and they also offer remarkable comfort.
TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:
These types of shoes are equipped with unique features that are specifically designed to aid in running on various rugged terrains, including hard pack, soft pack, fell, or a combination of these. Some common characteristics of these shoes are Gore-Tex liners, midfoot wraps, and lugged rubber outsoles. Additionally, compared to other shoes, they typically have sturdier uppers that can safeguard your feet and provide greater comfort during extended runs.
Trail running shoes prioritize the amount of grip they provide, and although all of them are designed for neutral runners, the outsole varies from shoe to shoe. Some have a deeper tread to enhance stability and traction on unsteady and slippery surfaces, while others have a lower profile to allow for quicker responses to changes in terrain.
