Today’s running landscape has a much different feel than the previous few years. Thanks to a major world event forcing us to reevaluate our fitness habits, it seems more and more athletes have taken interest in putting one foot in front of the other for the sake of better health and wellness.
According to World Athletics, running saw its recent boom begin in 2021, and it appears that trend is still on the rise. And running brands are taking notice, giving athletes of all skill levels a slew of innovative products and releases, keeping spirits high and the streets, trails and routes filled with excitement.
If you’re part of this in-step crew, what better way to kick off another year of movement than with a premium pair of running shoes? We’ve been keeping tabs on the latest releases, trying them out to see which kicks live up to the hype. We’ve also connected with field experts to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge you need to lace up your next perfect pair. From classic silhouettes to green-friendly daily trainers. From cushioned rides to responsive speedsters. No matter how you run, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look for in Running Shoes
While your running shoes should cater to your desired discipline, there are a handful of features to be mindful of regardless of whether you take your miles slow and steady, fast-paced or off the beaten path.
For starters, you should look for an upper that’s breathable enough for a comfortable, cool ride that still has some durability to it. There’s no sense investing in a quality pair of runners if you’re going to tear them up after only a few miles.
You should also pay attention to your shoe’s midsole. Director of Physical Therapy and Road Runners Club of America Level I and II Certified Running Coach Lauren Wentz says, “I always tell my patients first, you take the shoe, you should not be able to fold it in half. So, if it can actually fold, then there’s not enough support. Even the lowest drop Nikes don’t fold like that, so you shouldn’t be running in shoes that are that flimsy.”
Lastly, pay attention to your outsole and tread, depending on how you intend to run. Road-specific running shoes can offer great traction on paved surfaces or treadmills but might not be cut out for trail running. If your jogging is more on the adventurous side, look for trail running shoes that feature deeper, more durable lugs that provide grip through the mud and muck.
When Should You Buy a New Pair of Running Shoes?
The lifespan of running shoes varies and can be greatly impacted by how many miles you’re running in them. Wentz states, however, that it’s important to realize that running shoes do, in fact, have a lifespan, and it may be shorter than you think. “An orthopedic specialist I work with told me that shoes expire every eight months,” Wentz says. This is due to the fact that the materials in the sole can start to break down over time, regardless of use.
“Even if it’s a pair of shoes that you’ve only run in a couple of times, but you’ve owned them [for example] five years. The cushion, the foam, is already deteriorating. So, I think that’s something that I try to make sure people understand; that even if you’re not running a ton of miles, you should consider getting a new pair of shoes every six to eight months.”
A good comparison to this notion would be to look at your car’s tires. The rubber can break down and dry rot over time, regardless of how many miles you’ve driven on them. You wouldn’t drive on tires that aren’t up to speed, so why would you run with shoes that are past their expiration date, too?
If you’re more distance-focused than time-focused, you can also view your running shoes’ lifespan in miles. A few brands will list a shoe's predicted mileage on its product page, but most don't. Consider 400 miles a ballpark figure — that's five months of running 20 miles a week. Some can take more, some less.
It can also be good practice to rotate your running shoes. According to Wentz, the cushioning foam in a shoe’s sole takes at least 24 hours to return to its proper stack height, and constantly trudging along can wear out this foam, leading to discomfort and a drop in performance. To keep your kicks in tip-top shape for months to come, consider training in different shoes for different workouts. “Even if it’s a new runner who’s not doing specific workouts, they’re just running to run every day,” Wentz says, “They could have the same exact pair of shoes but just two different pairs.”
How Do I Know Which Running Shoe Is Right for Me?
If you’re new to running or just want a running shoe that’s in tune with your step, the best way to confidently determine which running shoe is right for you is with a gait analysis. Many reputable sporting goods stores offer such a service, with some even taking analysis into the digital realm with 3D foot scanners.
Wentz also notes that determining the right running shoes can be as easy as looking at the soles of your favorite sneakers. “That’s what I do in evaluations with patients. Like, are they a heel striker? Are they wearing out more on the medial side, meaning they pronate? Or, are they [wearing] more on the outside, meaning they supinate?” These hints and signs can be a great roadmap to help you get into the right pair for your step.
How We Tested
Throughout the year, our crew tests and reviews some of the most buzzed-about running shoes. We work with a variety of brands to make sure we’re on top of what you’ll see when you walk into your local running specialty store.
We take to the roads in 90-degree weather and 0-degree weather, noting how the temperature affects the foam and gel. We also wear the shoes to walk around all day, as well as on long travel weekends to get an overarching picture of what each shoe can actually do. Beyond pure fit, we evaluate shoes from a durability, comfort and reliability perspective. We note if the shoes make us feel zippy, help us slog through training miles or fall a little flat.
Now, let’s lace up and get into our list of the year’s best picks.
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes
Running should be a comfortable activity. You want everything, from the hat on your head to the socks on your feet, to create a cozy aesthetic that’s enjoyable at any distance. Well-cushioned running shoes can boost that comfort to unthinkable levels. Here are six picks we think really push the plush heading into the new year.
Hoka Bondi 8
- Weight: 10.8 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
When taking to the streets in this updated silhouette from Hoka, you can definitely feel the improvements underfoot. We enjoyed the redesigned heel geometry, which promoted a smooth transition without feeling too clunky or forced. As with any Hoka running shoe, the colorways provide plenty of flair, and the cushioned yet energetic ride was simply enjoyable at any mileage. While the tighter midfoot might prove to be a blister’s paradise for some, Hoka thankfully offers the Bondi 8 in wide sizing, so finding that premier fit shouldn’t be an issue.
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2
- Weight: 9.7 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9mm
If you really want to feel like you’re running on clouds, this is the silhouette for you. We can’t hype the Nike ZoomX foam enough, as it provides plenty of cushioning that’s great for recovery days and walking paces, while still housing enough energy return to complement quicker jogs, too. The Flyknit upper cloaks the foot comfortably as well, lending to this shoe’s prevalence as a daily wear option, but as breathable as it claims to be, we did experience some excess sweat at longer distances.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
- Weight: 10.9 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
With a Hypoknit upper that offers up a streamlined, sock-like fit, this cushioned runner is primed for daily training needs. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam delivers excellent cushioning and we really enjoyed how connected you felt to the pavement thanks to the natural flex zones built into the profile. It never felt like you were elevated from the road, which made controlling your footprint and stride much easier. As long as you pay attention to the sizing — this silhouette runs big — you should be more than happy with this runner built for daily sessions.
Brooks Glycerin 20
- Weight: 10.1 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
Running doesn’t always need to be about breaking personal bests. Sometimes, a recovery day is the best plan of attack, and when those activities appeared on our schedule, we gladly laced up this latest iteration from Brooks. The revamped DNA Loft v3 midsole is light as a feather, making transitions and pickups a breeze. We also enjoyed the traction provided by the thick rubber outsole. With that said, though, this silhouette did start to feel cumbersome on longer runs, so maybe save this sneaker for days when speed or mileage is not the most important.
Adidas Ultraboost 22
- Weight: 11.7 oz. (size 9)
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
When Adidas launched Ultraboost in 2015, it was revolutionary. The foam, fit and feel package was strong, and people loved the crossover value each sneaker carried. The latest version of the popular silhouette is 0.3 ounces lighter than the Ultraboost 21 and features a revised strobel lasting underneath the insole. This thinner lasting with large, oval cutouts in the heel and ball of the foot can help the sole expand more for a squishier, more comfortable ride than previous models. While this Adidas silhouette is heavy, we enjoyed the underfoot feel at slower paces, and really admire how well the BOOST capsules retain their responsiveness through extended use, whether that be in the gym, on the road or on the town.
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
- Weight: 10.4 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
If you’re looking for a race-ready silhouette that delivers cushioning and stability, this is the profile for you. We’ve loved each stride atop the Fresh Foam midsole, and the data-driven outsole gives the Fresh Foam X More v4s a unique sense of stability, as each step promotes a more natural footpath thanks to key areas of traction. Be mindful, though, that you may need to adjust your sizing to achieve that proper fit, as this shoe can feel wide in the midfoot for those with narrow feet. Plus, the non-gusseted tongue can shift when in motion, leading to some potential readjustments when out on your routes.
The Most Responsive Running Shoes
Another perk to the wide variety of running shoes is there’s a fit for every running style. Want kicks that really let you kick it into high gear? Want that rush of speed? Take a lap with these five picks, offering support and performance where you need it most.
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2
- Weight: 8 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Built off the silhouette that gave the world its first sub-two-hour marathon, the Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 delivers exceptional energy return in a sleek profile ready for race day. The lightweight, breathable Atomknit upper practically disappears on your foot, promoting that weight-cutting, record-breaking aura associated with this sneaker. While it’s not the best for daily training, you’ll certainly enjoy the effects of this speedster that was meant for the marathon circuit.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
- Weight: 7.2 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Want to go fast but don’t want the expensive silhouette solely for marathon running? Lace-up in these impressive kicks from Saucony. We really admire the snap and energy return baked into the S-Curve carbon plate, and the Speedroll geometry promotes better transitions that make turning over each stride as efficient as possible. Despite the added responsiveness, the Endorphin Pro 3s are plenty cushioned, too, thanks to the brand’s inclusion of PWRRUNPB foam in the midsole providing just the right amount of plush for those faster training days. While the outsole can show signs of deterioration over extended use, we still think these are worthwhile sneakers for every speed freak taking to the streets this year.
Altra Vanish Carbon
- Weight: 7.3 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
Perhaps you’re more interested in the barefoot movement yet still want to train at a heightened speed. If this is your taste, look no further than the Vanish Carbon from Altra. The zero drop silhouette promotes a more natural foot motion, and the added carbon plate makes each step springy and energetic. We also appreciate the support and comfort built into this profile, particularly in the midfoot. We do recommend, however, going with a lace lock lacing structure, as the laces are a little waxier than others and may come undone when cinched with traditional bunny ears. Plus, the natural silhouette creates a larger toe box, which can lead to extensive toe splaying and additional room for some athletes.
Hoka Carbon X 3
- Weight: 7.8 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm
Highly supportive and with much-appreciated improvements over previous iterations, the Carbon X 3s from Hoka provide a solid mix of stability and springiness. A performance knit upper cloaks your foot for race-day comfort, but we often found ourselves choosing these for daily tempo training and other, longer jogs. Plus, the Super Critical Foam midsole marries nicely to the carbon fiber plate for a ride that’s well-cushioned, responsive and just plain fun.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 3
- Weight: 8.1 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
The Hyperion Elite 3s from Brooks are the brand’s latest addition to the “super shoe” market. While we don’t think it absolutely lives up to that title, there’s plenty to love about this fast, enjoyable runner. A redesigned QuickKnit upper is lightweight, comfortable and colorful — we can’t deny how good these HE3s look. The nitrogen-infused DNA Flash midsole and carbon plate give you a nice, responsive ride, too, but we’d recommend saving these runners for tempo days as opposed to race day. Other options on this list can give you a little more zip and energy return when crossing the finish line in record time is at the forefront of your running list.
Asics Metaspeed Sky+
- Weight: 7.2 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm
This marathon-ready runner is definitely catered to a specific athlete: stride runners or those who lengthen their stride when quickening the pace. The energetic midsole and higher carbon plate were very present during testing, allowing for responsive toe-offs in every step which allowed us to conserve energy and focus on pacing down the stretch. The geometry favors pronators, rolling each footprint outward to correct any inward motion, but supinators can also reap the benefits of this impressive sneaker after getting used to the profile as well.
The Best Running Shoes for Trails
Trail running shoes are designed for variable terrain — they typically feature bigger lugs on their grippy, rugged outsoles that can efficiently maneuver through muddy, rocky trails without losing traction. Trail runners are also known for their stiffer midsoles, which offer more support on uneven surfaces. When you want to walk – or run – on the wild side, this is the footwear you want.
Hoka Speedgoat 5
- Weight: 10.3 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
When Hoka released this latest iteration of the trail running icon, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on it. An updated outsole features Vibram Megagrip with Traction Lug that’s great for tackling loose trails and soil. The lighter midsole compound provides ample room for your feet and pairs perfectly with the supportive upper to give the Speedgoat 5 that cushioned feel Hoka is known for. With little to no break-in required, these workhorses are ready right out of the box for whatever challenge you plan to conquer.
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3
- Weight: 10.2 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Featuring a Contagrip outsole, these trail runners are more than ready for whatever the trails throw at you. We’re also big fans of the improved fit and security, most notably in the heel when compared to previous iterations of this popular sneaker. A high-rebound midsole design can also help you keep pace with even the strictest split times when traversing varying terrain. We do wish, though, that Salomon would offer the S/Lab Ultra 3s in more colorways, as the Maverick and Racing Red combo is the only hue offered. More colors could lead to more style and personality matches, but if you’re up for the more vibrant vibe, consider these impressive trail conquerors.
Norda 001-M
- Weight: 8.71 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
From the untamed wilderness of Montreal, Norda has been on our radar for quite some time, but don’t feel bad if you’re not privy to these trail-running newcomers, yet. Pairing an innovative Dyneema upper with a grippy Vibram outsole, the Norda 001 is designed to provide the highest energy return possible without compromising on durability. Dyneema is traditionally hard to work with, so seeing a trail runner boast this stronger-than-steel material is noteworthy enough. But outside of the groundbreaking design, these unknown Canadian cruisers are a top-notch kick wherever your trail leads.
Brooks Caldera 6
- Weight: 11 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or seasoned veteran to understand the goals of the Caldera 6s. Take one look at the gargantuan midsole and you know this kick is designed with cushioning in mind. We enjoyed the plushness offered up by the DNA Loft v3 midsole as it carried us through short and long routes alike. Plus, the TrailTack rubber outsole provided plenty of traction, even through muddy puddles and throughways. But while the outsole got us through the muck, the upper reminded us of our previous steps, as it was susceptible to caking if slogging through a muddy turn.
Altra Lone Peak 6
- Weight: 10.6 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
If you’re on a long jaunt through the woods or taking on a multi-day excursion, you want your feet to have as natural a step as possible. The zero-drop nature of the Altra Lone Peak 6s promotes such balance, all while providing exceptional comfort and grip. Altra AGO foam boasts a soft landing with enough energy return to boost you forward, while the TrailClaw canted lugs give you the confidence to conquer any terrain along the way. We will say, though, that finding that locked-in feel takes some time due to the intricate lacing system. While it takes some finagling, it’s worth the extra step.
Hoka Tecton X
- Weight: 8.5 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm
Innovation takes time, and while the trail running scene has been hesitant to adopt carbon plates due to the uneven terrain, the Tecton X is a seismic shift the sport’s been waiting for. Using a split-plate system, the Tecton Xs — named after the Earth’s tectonic plates — move independently as you traverse over roots, rocks and other trail conditions, all while providing that springy responsiveness common in carbon-plated shoes. The Profly X midsole is another welcomed perk, providing a solid cushion that makes us want to take on every trailhead with speed and confidence. While the outsole isn’t the grippiest on this list, especially in muddier conditions, if you want to accomplish breakneck speeds through the hills and valleys, look no further.
The Best Specialty Running Shoes
As is the case with any fitness endeavor, there are special cases and disciplines that call for specialized gear. Running has no shortage of these instances and caters to these needs with a variety of shoe silhouettes. From weather-specific trainers to shoes designed for specific stride needs, here are some of our favorite specialized runners to keep pace with the “normies” all season long.
Inov-8 Roclite Ultra G 320
- Weight: 11.28 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
When pacing over slippery, wintery routes, you want a sneaker that’s prime for varying underfoot obstacles. In our pacing, we found the Graphene outsole of the Roclite Ultra G320s to be exceptional for these needs, and we also appreciate the cushioned support felt in each step. We also felt an appreciated sense of responsiveness thanks to a Graphene-infused midsole designed to help improve energy return by 25 percent while still providing a comfortable bounce. We did have to stop on a few occasions during our initial routes to fine-tune the lacing system across the midfoot, so expect to sign up for a few trial runs until you achieve that premier locked-in feel. Otherwise, for wintertime pacing, these are prime for tackling your fitness goals.
Adidas Terrex Agravic Tech Pro
- Weight: 14.3 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Featuring a water-repellent bootie design and BOA lacing system, this premium winter runner can be great for trudging through less-than-ideal conditions for the sake of maintaining training goals all year-round. We love how easy it is to get in and out of this kick thanks to the sleek, intuitive BOA lacing, and the Continental rubber outsole provides that extra sense of grip and traction you desire when striding across ice and snow. Just be prepared to cut your routes a little short, though, as lugging this heavy silhouette through longer runs can be quite a taxing endeavor. With temperatures below freezing, though, we doubt you’ll be hesitant to say no to fewer outdoor workouts.
Asics Gel-Kayano 29
- Weight: 10.5 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
While the main purpose of the Gel-Kayano 29 is to provide excellent stability to every step, that doesn’t mean this kick isn’t a pleasure to run in. We found the Flytefoam Blast+ cushioning provided more than enough plush and energy return, making this an excellent choice for tempo days and daily training alike, plus the Litetruss technology is designed to give each step a bit of correction in the midsole for more natural footstrikes and better transitions. We did notice, though, that the engineered mesh upper did lend to sweatier digits after longer runs, so it may be worthwhile to pair these stability runners with a quality pair of running socks to avoid any potential blisters or discomfort down the road.
Saucony Tempus
- Weight: 8.9 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
Stability running shoes can sometimes go overboard in terms of step correction, leading to some distractions as your foot is forced back into a natural plane. When running atop the Saucony Tempus’s, though, those distractions never rear their head thanks to a signature midsole geometry that seamlessly forces your foot through each transition. We also admire the snap featured in the PWRRUN Frame, particularly during toe-offs. It’s best to save these stabilizing sneakers for more ideal running conditions, however. We did notice our traction became somewhat compromised when traversing wet roadways and sidewalks.
Merrell Vapor Glove 5
- Weight: 10 oz.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
Whether you're a veteran barefoot runner or just getting into the discipline, we thoroughly recommend Merrell’s Vapor Glove 5s. A 2mm Vibram Ecostep outsole allows for premium ground contact and feel while still remaining thick enough to provide ample protection and traction across multiple terrains. We also appreciated the sock-like fit of these next-to-nothing runners, most notably in the stretch collar, but be prepared to sweat. When pacing through multiple routes at varying lengths, we were always left with sweat-riddled feet at the end due to the mesh and TPU upper’s tendency to run hot.
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
- Weight: N/A
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
These sleek barefoot running shoes are just as stylish as they are performance-laden. With an Active Outsole for a heightened sensory experience, achieving that grounded feeling is near immediate with the Primus Lite IIIs. Plus, we liked the notion that Vivobarefoot built these kicks with the planet in mind, utilizing recycled materials and reused post-consumer plastic waste to create its visual appeal. While you may need to stop on occasion to retie your laces — we experienced some undoings when out and about — these can be exceptional runners that transition well from training to non-training scenarios.
New and Upcoming Releases
Our recommendations are based on real-world testing. Here's a snapshot of new and unreleased running shoes our testers are considering for future updates to this guide.
Lululemon Blissfeel 2: Designed with the female foot in mind, this latest running silhouette from Lululemon continues to innovate the footwear space. An added emphasis on fit and feel make the Blissfeel 2s a clear standout from its predecessor, highlighted dominantly through its refined user and seamless frame that extends through the heel for a more cradle-like sensation in each step.
Adidas Ultraboost Light: The Ultraboost family has always had a solid foundation in comfort and support, but the heavier Boost tech was never a great solution for longer mileage. This all-new silhouette from Adidas takes aim at this feedback thanks to a Light Boost material clocking in 30 percent lighter than its predecessor.
Hoka Clifton 9: The latest iteration of this popular Hoka stable features a higher stack height for improved responsiveness underfoot. Despite this lift, however, the Clifton 9 is still lighter than its predecessor by two ounces, creating a well-rounded, effective silhouette for daily training.
Your Run, Your Way
As a closing statement, always remember that your running shoes should reflect how you want to run. Especially if you’re just getting started, there’s no need to get caught up in the technical specs and luxury features like zero drop or enhanced footplates. For example, Wentz states she loves racing in shoes featuring a carbon footplate, but this technology is not meant for everyone taking to the streets. “They do make you fly, it does feel good, but I think because those are what elite [runners] are now wearing, people read about it and they get caught up in it.”
At the end of the day, your best run starts with shoes that you’re comfortable with and kicks that provide support where you need it. If you do want to experiment with other specs, take a gradual approach rather than drastically changing your shoes – maybe with a pair of insoles or heel cups to start.
