Even if you are a casual runner, running shoes are necessary to protect your feet from injury.
In this guide, we look at essential features to look for, as well as some of the best shoes on the market (in general).
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Brooks Ghost 12 | Best Overall |  |
| Saucony Women's VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe | Budget Pick |  |
| Brooks Women's Ravenna 10 | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Brooks Ghost 12
Pros:
- The midsole torsion system prevents excessive pronation
- The medial post and support shank are designed to prevent over-pronation
- The Brooks Ghost has an ideal 4-mm heel-toe drop, which is the ideal amount for shock absorption and heel cushioning
- The new dual density midsole with lateral and medial crash rails provide more support and guidance through the gait cycle
- The new cushioning system provides greater shock absorption and smoother transitions
- This shoe is great for long-distance runners
- The toe post is positioned slightly higher than the previous version for more security
Cons:
- These shoes are a little expensive
- Some users might experience aches and pains in the foot, shin, and knee
If you are an avid runner, the Brooks Ghost 12 is one of the best running shoes for pronation support in its price range. It is a little on the pricey side, but pronators looking for a little more support will be happy with this shoe.
2. Mizuno Men's Wave Inspire 16 Road Running Shoe
Pros:
- Larger forefoot “ pretty much perfect for men with toe box issues
- Best cushioning and perfect for long running days
- Efficient cooling for hot days
- Best fit among the Inspire series
- Great construction despite some slight changes
- High quality, awesome durability
- Perfect for many different types of running
- Very stable, less chance of rolling over
- Great heel support
- Looks great and very stylish
Mizuno has definitely focused on how to make a running shoe for those who need help with their arches and/or need a wider toe box. I had to try the shoe without tying it up to feel if I wanted to buy it and the width and arch support was just right.
3. Saucony Men's Guide 13 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Great cushioning
- Breathable, mesh upper
- Moderate stability
- Stable, responsive ride
- Roomy toebox
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Great fit, super comfortable
- Great value
Cons:
- Little ventilation
- Slightly wide fit
- Tiny bit narrow
- Not enough room in the sole
- Mild pressure points
An updated version of the Fresh Foam Guide; the Guide 13 is Saucony’s take on a neutral Trainer with responsiveness, comfort, and cushioning makes it an all-around great shoe.
A revised upper has been designed to be lighter and more breathable with better moisture management, and… a mesh and suede upper with a comfortable Ortholite sockliner. The new foam midsole has enhanced the shoe’s cushioning power where you need it and the responsive blown rubber outsole offers durable traction on a variety of surfaces.
The Women’s Guide 13 comes in several great color combinations, but my favorite is the Peacoat / Magenta/True Red.
4. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 20
Pros:
- Lighter weight with quick recovery rate.
- High breathability and moisture-wicking fabric to stay dry.
- Pocket depth is adequate for keys and smartphone.
- One-year sole warranty.
Cons:
- Look might not be up to par for some.
- Price might be hard to swallow.
The Adrenaline GTS 20 is another favorite among Brooks men's shoes. Not only do the shoes feature Brooks' top-rated BioMoGo midsole, and the company's hallmark BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning system, but the shoes are also one of the most aesthetic of all of Brooks' shoes.
The upper is constructed in a breathable mesh fabric. The midsole is not only light and bouncy, but it's very responsive, too. Let's face it, you want your running shoe to make you feel like a superhero. The Adrenaline GTS 20 shoes certainly make you feel like you can do anything you put your mind to.
5. New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Vongo V4 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Plenty of cushioned comfort
- Plenty of traction for both roads and trails
- Snug yet breathable fabric
Cons:
- They tend to run narrow
- They’re expensive
The Vongo is a breathable and comfortable shoe for men. It has plenty of cushion and protection with both a heel toe rock plate and a full forefoot rock guard. This helps to reduce foot pain and also makes the shoe very durable for taking on trails and rocky stretches.
The mesh fabric is soft and breathable and prevents that sweaty boot feel. The upper is breathable fabric mesh and also features a highly breathable lining. If you’re looking for a comfortable trail shoe with a sense of style, these shoes fit the bill.
The heel of the shoe has a comfortable pre-molded EVA right out of the box, so this is going to be the most comfortable shoe right away. If you have extra high arches, this may not be the most comfortable shoe as the midsole design is not as deep as some athletic shoes.
6. New Balance Women's Made in Us 990 V4 Sneaker
Pros:
- Very supportive
- Simple design
- Shoe laces don’t come untied
- Can take a beating
- Great arch support
Cons:
- Solid, but not flexible
- Can get smelly if worn without socks
This sneaker is a great choice for virtually any athlete. It has a breathable air mesh lining and lightweight cushioning that is perfect for high impact workouts.
New Balance has made this sneaker with a durable leather upper and a solid rubber outsole. It also includes a medial post that offers more stability than some of the other sneaker options on our list.
The shoe also has a well-cushioned collar for added comfort and support. The 990 v4 is available for men and women and is a great choice for anyone who needs a supportive training shoe for everyday use.
7. ASICS Women's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes
Pros:
- Promotes better overall foot health
- Has ASICS "Impact Guidance System"
- Air cushioning for a smooth feel
- Has midsole flex grooves
- Both wide and narrow options available
- Mesh construction for great breathability
- EVA sock liner is highly cushioned
- Many colorways to choose from
- Has a durable rubber outsole
Cons:
- Heavier option for women
- Heavier option for women
- Heavier option for women
- The toe box might be narrow for some feet
These Gel Kayano shoes are excellent for running. They have a combination of features that help protect your feet from common running injuries. For instance, the midsole has an Impact Guidance System that uses differentials in the midsole to help guide your feet so that you get the optimum running form and prevent injuries.
The upper has a mesh construction, so your feet get plenty of breathability and can stay cool. The heel has extra padding that makes sure that your heel stays secure.
The air cushioning system provides a smooth feel so that each step you take feels light and comfortable. The toe box is wide enough to fit wide feet. These shoes are available in many colorways so you can choose a pair that matches your style.
8. Brooks Women's Ravenna 10
Pros:
- Molded foam footbed with 2mm heel drop.
- Breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool.
- The outsole is flexible and lightweight.
- Great forefoot cushioning for a pleasant walking experience.
- The shoes is quite sturdy and can last for a few years.
- The design is fashionable, the upper is breathable and flexible.
Cons:
- Although the shoes are super breathable, it's not waterproof.
This pair of shoes is a result of tireless efforts by the company behind Brooks. They wanted to make a pair for athletes and give them the superior quality and good support. This pair of shoe is really comfortable and it's quite light as well.
Forgot your sport socks? Hide your foul odors with these shoe insoles that mask odor, absorb moisture and reduce stink. This is a 4-pack of stink-fighting insoles.
9. HOKA ONE ONE Men's Arahi 4 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Maximum support due to lightweight & high-density cushioning.
- Anti-shock, drop-in midsole foam for high comfort levels.
- A lightweight, responsive ride with plenty of cushioning.
- An extended web structure provides stability and durability.
- A high-density EVA foam for a softer ride.
- The OrthoLite sock liner provides extra stability.
- The extended web structure ensures excellent support.
- The water- and dirt-resistant upper helps keep your feet dry.
- Supportive heel cushioning for runners who pronate with every step.
Cons:
- Not a very flexible shoe .
- Our size 9.5 foot could use a little more room.
As you may or may not know, a well-cushioned shoe is one of the top characteristics of a great plantar fasciitis shoe, and the HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 definitely delivers. Specifically, the HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 is able to deliver on this front thanks to a combination of a drop-in midsole foam (it’s soft and spongy) and a high density cushioning. Its water- and dirt-resistant upper helps to keep your feet dry.
10. Newton Running Men's Motion 8
Pros:
- Dana “dances” within the shoe
- Heel-toe running
- Zero-drop (the distance from the heel to the forefoot is the same as the width of the shoe if you look at it from the front)
- Soft cushioning
- Subtle yellow pops on the upper of the shoe
Cons:
- Material is not breathable for hot days
- Attracts dust
- Fit is very snug, runs a little narrow
A great shoe for long distance running as long as you don't mind a snug fit. But if your feet are anything but a standard shape this is not the shoe for you.
This shoe is built to relieve pressure on your joints. Designed to be a to be the most technically advanced running shoe ever built, The Motion 8's advancement in design is based on extensive research looking at the forces that affect a runner's body while underway.
11. Saucony Women's VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe
Pros:
- Lightweight, flexible design
- Wide support zone
- Very comfortable and breatheable
The Saucony women’s running shoe is a lightweight running shoe with a striking design that stands out from the crowd. In fact, it’s one of the very few shoes on this list that you’re likely to see on the track at most running events.
The design of this shoe has two unique features, which is why it’s such a popular option among runners. It has an awesome effect where it feels soft, like you’re not wearing shoes at all, but they’re also very breathable, so you stay cool as you run.
It’s also designed to be lightweight, so it’s one of the most comfortable shoes you’ll find. You should be careful, though, to make sure you don’t feel pain in the ball of your foot while wearing these, because the shoe is particularly unforgiving if you have flat feet.
12. Nike Women's Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
This is the best selling running shoe on Amazon in its class for a reason. It has an excellent limited edition design that looks good and it fits like a glove.
With the Nike Womens Air Zoom Pegasus 36 you have unbeatable comfort, enhanced heel support and excellent cushioning. So your daily runs will be a real pleasure. The shoes are great for those who have a slightly less flexible foot and have a low arch and high heel-to-toe drop.
If you like limited edition sneakers this shoe is a great choice. It has a special limited edition design with a vibrant color pattern.
13. Brooks Women's PureCadence 7
Pros:
- Features BioMoGo DNA midsole
- Reactive midsole geometry
- Gender-specific midsole geometry
- Fits true to size
- Outstanding forefoot cushioning
- Cushioned collar and tongue
- Breathable mesh upper material
- Anti-microbial properties
- Comfortable, responsive and supportive
- Slightly angled lugs
This pair of running shoes from Brooks is a hit. It is for all types of runners, from beginners to advanced. It has a new midsole version which offers a more stable, responsive ride and it also has a gender-specific midsole geometry to provide a responsive heel-to-toe motion.
14. New Balance Women's Leadville V3 Trail Running Shoe
Pros:
- Lower-cut design offers more stability and protection
- Guidance Line technology offers great stability and efficient energy return
- More secure underfoot feel thanks to a higher density and firmer midsole
- Cushioning throughout the sole is responsive for smoother heel-to-toe transitions
Cons:
- Heel-to-toe drop of 11 mm may be too high for some runners
- Not ideal for trail running on rocky terrain
- No upper ventilation
- Expensive
The Leadville V3 is the updated version of one of our favorite trail running shoes. It features a low-profile upper, a beefy foam heel that grips trail terrain well, and a sole that combines a nice mix of responsiveness, cushioning, and durability.
We find that the Leadville V3 provides a comfortable fit. The upper has a unique cut-out design that provides a more secure fit. The shoe offers a great combination of support, comfort, and stability. It can be used as a daily trainer or as a trail running and racing shoe.
15. Mizuno Women's Horizon 4 Running Shoe
Pros:
- Neutral platform
- Moderate center of gravity
- Cheaper than Asics Kayano's
- Great for people with wider feet
- Better arch support than the Kayano
Cons:
- Variable quality control issues
- Not the best for daily runners
- Very little drop (heel to toe height)
Best For: Moderate to high arches
Best For: Overpronators
Best For: Wide feet
16. ASICS Men's GT-2000 7 Running Shoes
Pros:
- Excellent comfort features
- Superb support
- Impressive durability
The GT-2000 7 is another superb offering from ASICS in the world of neutral trainers. These are truly world-class running shoes with a unique combination of style, top-notch comfort, and surprising durability.
They are also extremely lightweight and offer an impressive, supportive fit and a sturdy, yet flexible construction. They also feature an impressive overall design that makes them one of the best overall running shoes for multiple reasons.
17. Nike Men's Training Shoes
If you are a runner, you have to have a pair of Nike shoes, specially if you are training for a marathon. They will help you run farther with less pain.
What’s more, Nike shoes are very specific about the way they fit and work. If you are a mid-foot striker you will want to get a tennis shoe that has a mid foot strike mark, etc.
Overall, there is no doubt that if you can get a pair of Nike running shoes on sale or with a coupon code you are going to have a high quality running shoe that is going to last you for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis?
The best shoes for plantar fasciitis are the ones that are going to give you the most support and help avoid painful symptoms. Good shoes will also reduce pressure on your heels while spreading the pressure along your whole foot.
An additional benefit of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis is that they are going to be comfortable to wear. As long as they give you good support, a professional trainer will never suggest wearing any shoe that makes you feel uncomfortable.
What are the best Brooks shoes for plantar fasciitis?
The Brooks Adrenaline is our favorite shoe for plantar fasciitis because it provides the perfect level of cushioning and support with no frills and no extra weight.
Our next favorite for plantar fasciitis is the Brooks Glycerin, which provides a smooth ride while still providing the support necessary for plantar fasciitis sufferers. We highly recommend these shoes if they fit your budget.
What are the best men's shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Conclusion
Runners all over the world are suffering from a painful condition called Plantar Fasciitis. This painful condition, which is also known as heel pain, occurs when the Achilles tendon of the foot is injured by inflammation which develops on the heel bone. It is a painful, yet manageable condition.
The pain of Plantar Fasciitis isn’t felt by everyone, but if it’s bothering you, then you’re not alone. The good news is you don’t have to suffer anymore because we have identified and listed the top 17 running shoes that we recommend.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Brooks Ghost 12 | Best Overall | |
| Saucony Women's VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe | Budget Pick | |
| Brooks Women's Ravenna 10 | Upgrade Pick | |