Running is one of the most effective cardio exercises there is.
Not only is it a great way to lose weight, it helps to lower your blood pressure, strengthen your bones, and improve your overall body composition.
But for some people, running can prove to be a daunting activity. It seems that many people don’t enjoy running because it can feel overall uncomfortable and tiring. If you’re one of the many people who don’t like to run, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t run.
There are many things that can go wrong with a running route. Fortunately, it just takes a little more research to find the best ones out there. Ideally, you should want to shed pounds and be able to run faster and easier.
Thankfully, there are many high-quality running shoes available, designed to help you accomplish just that. Some of the best running shoes out there remain a constant source of debate.
We have ascertained a list of the best running shoes for men and women, and reviewed them, so you can find the best one to buy for your running experience.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS Men's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes | Best Overall |  |
| Saucony Men's Freedom ISO Running Shoe | Budget Pick |  |
| New Balance Men's 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. ASICS Men's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes
Pros:
- Great fit using Forefoot GEL technology.
- Great 4 mm drop, provides comfort.
- Quality look and feel.
- Handles long distance runs with ease.
- Blends superbly with a variety of outfits.
- Durability is on point, can last up to 400 miles.
Cons:
- Doesn't have any serious flaws.
- These running shoes are a set of lightweight and comfortable pairs that you can wear on long runs.
- It fits true to size and comes in multiple colors such as blue, grey, red and white.
- The shoes have a great 4 mm drop and also comes with removable insoles, making them appropriate for different kinds of people.
2. Brooks Glycerin 16
Pros:
- Great looking, aesthetically pleasing.
- Great cushioning, good shock absorber.
- Very comfortable, runs a bit bigger.
- Able to handle long distance running.
- Wide selection of colors available.
- Perforated main body.
Cons:
- Lacks arch support (good for people with good arches, not for others).
- Transfers a lot of ground impact onto your joints (good for runners with knee injuries, bad for runners with achy joints).
- A bit on the firmer side (considered by some to be too firm).
This trainer from well-regarded maker Brooks offers a unique feature for long runs — maximum shock absorption. This is based on the fact that Brooks has placed a carbon fiber rod into the midsole of the shoe to absorb impact, while the heel will absorb 13% less shock. This drops landing impact by about 10%.
3. Brooks Ghost 11 Black/Pink/Aqua 8.5 B
Pros:
- Very lightweight for a trainer with a lot of cushioning.
- Great versatility: half marathon as well as 5K, 10K and even trail running.
- New Brooks DNA Groove helps to keep you stable by distributing impact evenly through the midsole.
Cons:
- Not the best support for mild overpronators.
- Doesn’t last quite as long as you’d hope for.
The Ghost series by Brooks is a great shoe, well suited for shorter road distances. This model is ideal for mid to road distances and includes a nice blend of cushioning and support, along with a reasonably lightweight design.
Overall, it’s a great performer, true to size, and perfect for the seasoned runner and experienced trainer.
4. New Balance Men's 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
Pros:
- Efficient motion control
- Superior comfort
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Great cushioning.
- Quality materials.
- Great looks.
- Left and right foot differential.
- Very flexible outsole.
- Everything you could ask for in a running shoe, from great looks, flexibility, superior cushioning and the all-important fit.
Cons:
- Not as good for severe pronators or someone wanting a relaxed fit.
While the New Balance 1080v8 Fresh Foam is a need-to-know option for daily runs, it’s not the best for long-distance runs due to its snug fit. It’s important to remember that this is a shoe, which is made for daily runs. It is not designed for long-distance runs. The snug fit tends to irritate the feet and cause blisters. If you are an experienced runner seeking a decent running shoe for extreme distances, then this is not the best option. If you are new to running and looking for a good pair of running shoes, this is your best choice.
5. adidas Men's Ultraboost
Pros:
- Very comfortable for running
- Heel cushioning is plush
- Great for longer distance running
- Nice color choices
- Good fit and support
Cons:
- There is a lack of bottom cushion
- Not as durable as some
The Adidas Ultraboost 19 has great stability because of an innovative TORSION TAPE that connects the midsole with an easy lacing system. These combine to provide good lockdown which is especially useful if you struggle with stability. The TORSION TAPE also provides a unique appearance and ensures a good fit. There is a heel counter feature that is helpful in supporting the foot.
The Apparel News describes it as a “definitive melting pot of design and technological flash.” No doubt, these are among the best running shoes for men.
This is not a shoe that is going to make your sole sizzle or sing. It is a performance shoe for serious runners who want shoe that does what it is supposed to with great fit and support.
6. adidas Men's Adizero Boston 7 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Super lightweight and comfortable
- Has great bouncy good looks.
- Great high-quality product from a respected brand.
Cons:
- Ventilation isn't great on hot days.
The Adidas Adizero Boston is one of the best running shoes for CrossFit because it stands out as a great modern. Boost is a bouncy cushioning system that is a really comfortable and responsive platform. Many people say this is the most comfortable shoe they have ever worn.
The shoe is very light but has a good solid base, the running lugs are stiff and offer great traction, the upper is made of mesh so air can flow in. The insides are lined with guard rubber to protect your feet. It does not have as much extra cushioning through the midsole as the adizero 4.0, this version of the shoe is supposed to be one of the lightest shoes ever made by adidas.
Bottom line: Overall the Adizero Boston is a great modern running shoe. It is a bit expensive but from a name like adidas you know that you are getting a solid piece of equipment.
7. Mizuno Men's Wave Enigma 6 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Very stable and supportive for pronators
- Good amount of protection from the elements
- Very comfortable for long distances
- Lightweight and cushioned
- Highly customizable
Cons:
- Not the best shoe for high arches
- Slightly narrow toe box
The Mizuno Enigma is a great shoe for those who need good cushioning for long distances. It’s a neutral shoe that works great for long runs and races due to the extra support. It offers a comfortable fit for low arches, while offering a roomy toe box. It’s a great lightweight shoe for long distance running that can cushion the impact.
It’s really comfortable to run in, and you won’t notice any chafing or rubs with this shoe if you’re out on the run for hours. It’s also very durable and will last you for years to come.
8. New Balance Women's 880v8 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Designed specifically for over-pronation
- Cushioning is perfect for long runs
- Awesome breathability system
- Great traction on all kinds of surfaces
- Stable and stiff with great cushion for a long lasting performance
- Highly durable, suitable for moderate use
- Integrated mid-foot shank for needed support and stability
Cons:
- Not very cushiony as some others, though it is more durable for long distance runs.
- The color and design could be better but it's an average looking shoe.
This is a great decent shoe from New Balance for women that are always on the go and like to train a lot.
This is a high quality shoe that is one of the best-rated long distance running shoes on the market. It is featured with top quality performance and stability and the New Balance Women's 880v8 is right where you need it.
9. Saucony Women's Kinvara 9 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Fits true to size
- Very comfortable material
- Great cushioning
Cons:
- No arch support
- Shoe laces are a bit tight
This is one of the very best recommendations to the best crossfit shoe for women. It has a mesh upper that is built onto a foam-based platform. It is also equipped with Saucony's Auto Guidance Technology that provides runners with better stability and control.
It is also designed with an Everun topsole that is designed to absorb shock at heel strike. This helps reduce the impact on runners joints.
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10. Salomon Unisex S/LAB Ultra Trail Running Shoe
Pros:
- Unisex design
- Highly versatile shoe
- Lightweight
- DuraFresh anti-odor technology keeps your shoes fresh
- Ideal for long-distance running
- Great grip and traction
- Firm padding absorbs some of the impact coming up off the road
- Higher ankle support than normal running shoes
- Roomy toe box, great if you suffer from toe cramps
- Cushioned and highly comfortable
If you’re looking for a more well-rounded training shoe for beginners, the Salomon Men’s S-LAB and the Salomon Women’s S-LAB is a great choice. These shoes are comfortable and balanced nicely with a wide toe box, shock absorption features, and decent traction for a light trail runner.
They are multipurpose shoes that you can use for your interval training, as well as long distance training and long-term road runs.
11. ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes
Pros:
- Supportive foot bed and motion control
- Plush sock liner for a comfortable fit
- FluidRide and Guidance Line technologies
- Attractive design with lots of color options
- Great fit for narrow calves and wide feet
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 21 is your go-to stability and neutral cushion running shoe. It has a breathable mesh upper that will keep your feet cool and dry. It has a midsole with enhanced cushioning and a Propulsion Trusstic System at the rear for less shock and enhanced efficiency.
It also has other technologies such as X-SOCK-LINER and FluidRide. The X-SOCK LINER is an extra layer of cushioning inside the sock liner. The FluidRide Midsole provides as much as 20% more forefoot cushioning while having excellent flexibility.
The outsole is ASICS’ patented Guidance Line, which delivers more efficient rolling of the foot and presents an energy transfer mechanism between the foot and the shoe. This will help to enhance your natural stability and let you dominate during your next run.
12. Nike Womens Epic React Flyknit Fabric Low Top Lace Up Running Sneaker
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Breathable mesh with a rubber toe bumper
- Ultra-thin Nike React foam cushioning
- Purchase comes with a pair of breathable socks
- Above average arch support
- Wide variety of attractive colors
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Poor traction on slippery surfaces
- Arch support does not hug the foot
- Little room in the toe box
- Pricey
The Nike Epic React is a newly released shoe that was designed with the middle distance athlete in mind. It has very low drop (4mm) and a ton of cushioning.
The heel is high and the shoe is fairly roomy but the forefoot has very little room for toes to splay. The Nike Epic React is a very narrow shoe with a lot of support and very little room for a completely natural foot position.
After a 5-week trial we were slightly disappointed in the performance of the React. The cushion is advertised as being responsive but it was hard to determine. Normally cushioning in a shoe will degrade over time which will allow a runner to feel the ground better.
13. Saucony Women's Liberty Iso
Pros:
- The 2mm drop platform is ideal for a heavy runner like me. It’s fairly supportive.
- Full-length outsole is breathable and lightweight, but sturdy and very durable.
- The Lite-seam upper is soft and stretchy, so the shoe is highly flexible.
- The instep collar is stretchy and soft, too, but holds your foot firmly in place.
- The Iso-grid Cushioning is very responsive and helps you spring into action.
Cons:
- The insole is made of a harder EVA foam, not much cushioning.
- The shoe is a little narrow in the toe box, so my big feet felt a little cramped.
- If you have a higher arch and/or a wide foot, you’ll be disappointed.
- The shoe is lacking in foot support, not very high-arched or stable.
We chose the Saucony Women’s Liberty ISO 3s as our favorite running shoes for heavy runners for one main reason: it’s super lightweight with ample cushioning and effective at shock absorption. It has a responsive toe off.
14. adidas Performance Women's Supernova St w Running Shoe
Pros:
- Breathable mesh upper
- Nubuck overlays
- PU midsole
- Rubber outsole
- The outsole features Continental rubber
- Supernova design
- Flat foot technology at the midsole
- AdiWEAR 5GEN outsole
- TORSION(TM) unit in the forefoot
- Comfortable and lightweight
Cons:
- Runs narrow
- Some users find the shoe to provide little to no arch support.
Get the best of both worlds with this women’s running shoe by Adidas. The Adidas Performance Women’s Supernova St w Running Shoe is tough and durable thanks to the nubuck overlays and rubber heel guard. It includes a breathable mesh upper and PU midsole for cushion and support.
These shoes are great for everyday training, and excelling in exercise, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. They’re also great for casual wear, while on vacation, or a stroll through the mall on a rainy day. The outsole features Continental rubber for superior traction and durability.
15. Nike Men's Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
Now, there are a lot of investing mistakes that people make. However, very few of them are costly enough to threaten your future. Compared to a financial advisor who will encourage you to invest in a new type of fund or a certain kind of advisor that will advise you to hold onto your biggest client for far too long, this mistake can cost you your life, not just your assets
This mistake is called unintended acceleration. Now, that doesn’t mean any acceleration, rather acceleration that you didn’t intend.
Most people would think that this is just a problem for car drivers, however, once you hear me out you’ll realize that there is a lot more to it than you think. Read on to find out more
16. New Balance Men's Vongo V3 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
Pros:
- Very comfortable shoes, perfect for distance runners
- Cushoin provides great arch support.
- Sturdy shoes, made with strong materials.
- Looks fashionable
Cons:
- Your heel may slide around when you run.
- Very expensive shoes.
/ EU 40 (40.5cm)
This pair of running shoes is the best long distance running shoes for men. The best thing about it is that it is very comfortable, especially for long distance running.
It comes with an extra layer of cushion to give your feet the comfort you need to run fast. This made the shoes very breathable, which is very good for people with sweaty feet like me.
17. Saucony Men's Freedom ISO Running Shoe
Pros:
- Very gentle and responsive cushioning.
- Very durable construction.
- Can stand up to rough use.
- Support system on the insole.
Cons:
- Does not seem to provide enough arch support for some applications.
- Some models seem to be too wide.
- Sizing is not uniform, you may need to try them out before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
The Saucony Elite Freedom is a great lightweight shoe with a good balance of responsiveness without sacrificing durability. It's a neutral shoe that works great for a variety of fitness activities, including CrossFit.
The upper material is microfiber which provides a natural, smooth fit, while protecting feet from contact with an abrasive gym floor. It uses CMEVA foam for the insole. This is a responsive and lightweight foam which results in a natural springy step that doesn't feel too firm. Moisture-wicking properties keep your feet feeling cool and dry.
The midsole is also very responsive, and your feet will have a secure hold on the surface. This is due to the Everrun topsole design, which is a lightweight all-purpose rubber that is flexible yet durable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of shoes are best for long distance running?
We all know running shoes are based on a specific foot strike pattern. This is the flat sole and heel strike characteristic. There are two basic types of running shoes: Motion Control and Neutral. The best one for you is dependent on the amount of pronation (arch) and sliding motion (heel to toe) your foot has. The outside of the shoe design is no good indication of the motion control level, in fact it is quite misleading. You need the help of an expert, such as a Sales Associate at a local Running Shoe store like Road Runner Sports, to assist you in determining the type of shoe you need and help you with proper fit.
What shoes do the best marathon runners wear?
Top marathon runners and training experts agree that for the best running experience, you should wear shoes that fit your foot well and are flexible and give you a lot of support. You might also notice that there are a lot of running shoes companies out there making bold claims and offering a variety of interesting options. But what do these shoes have to do with the best marathon runners in the world, and what exactly should you look for?
In the running shoe world, there are lots of terms to know, so this is a quick list of three simple things you should know before you make your purchase.
What are the best running shoes 2022?
When it comes to running shoes there are two main schools of thought. One school is zero drop. Essentially zero-drop shoes are those with the same amount of heel and forefoot drop. The second school of thought is static stability or motion control shoes. Running shoes with heavy support and motion control qualities have a higher heel drop.
Zero-drop is quickly becoming the preferred style as it is believed that heel support has contributed to runner's knee. Minimal shoe designs such as the Vibram Five Fingers and flatfoot shoes such as VivoBarefoot also fall into the zero-drop category.
Stability shoes are not necessarily outside the realm of zero-drop but rather they come in a wide range of styles with varying heel drops.
What are the best Nike running shoes for long distance?
B. Nike Air Pegasus+ 28
The Nike Air Pegasus+ 28 Running Shoe features a custom engineered mesh upper that fits like a sock. It is made from breathable lightweight mesh that allows your foot to breathe throughout your run so your feet will stay dry and comfortable. The Nike Air Pegasus+ 28 also has a blend of rubber and foam cushioning so your feet will be cushioned too.
You will feel flexible and comfortable in the Nike Air Pegasus+ 28 Running Shoe.
Conclusion
Why am I happy about this? Let me explain:
Having worked as a physical therapist for over ten years in an outpatient orthopedic practice in a major hospital, I see every day how patients with kinesalgia- inflammation and chronic pain in the foot, plantar fasci- inflammation and chronic pain in the sole of the foot, heel spur or other serious foot issues, keep coming back because their running shoes have caused their injuries!
I ran track in high school and college. I ran as an adult while in graduate school, while working as a nurse, and even in the beginning of my career as a physical therapist.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS Men's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes | Best Overall | |
| Saucony Men's Freedom ISO Running Shoe | Budget Pick | |
| New Balance Men's 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe | Upgrade Pick | |