Best Overall Men’s Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4

Style	Daily/cushioning
Sizes Available	6 – 15 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	43 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	7 mm
Plate Type	None

The Asics Novablast 4 is our favorite do-it-all training shoe; the all-around favorite running shoe of our expert running shoe testers. Why? It was the most consistent top-performing shoe across the range of our rating metrics that we have evaluated. It scores well in almost everything we consider important in a running shoe purchase decision and it performs well on every surface we ran on and nearly every pace. Nathaniel, our lead tester for men’s road shoes, was confident and comfortable in the Novablast on “both easy runs and at 5K pace.” It does err on the side of comfort rather than speed, but if we could only have one shoe for every run, this would be it. And on top of that we love the reasonable price.

The one thing we loved most about the Novablast is its cushioning and landing comfort. In comparing models, we found the Novablast to be well above average on Cushioning and Landing comfort, without losing its responsive edge over the competition. Our running experts describe it as having “..a nicely cushioned landing” that feels comfortable but not too squishy. The Novablast has a massive chunk of foam underfoot (43mm in the heel, 36mm in the forefoot), but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s lazy. We found it to be responsive and bouncy, making it extremely versatile; picking up the pace is easy in this shoe, thanks to its unique geometry. And all that foam is appreciated when we want to take it easy.

If you are looking for an all-around great running shoe for training long or short distances, hard and easy paces, the Novablast 4 might just be the perfect option for you. The Novablast is a shoe that can do it all. It strikes a rare combination of high-scoring features, and we think the “balance between responsiveness and cushioning is near-perfect for a daily trainer.” We appreciate that a shoe with this level of performance can be such a great value as well; most shoes that scored near it cost $20-120 more. It’s an even better value when considering it might keep you from buying multiple running shoes for multiple surfaces and applications.

If you often find yourself on wet roads, this might not be your shoe. We found the grip lacking on wet or slick surfaces; our only complaint about the Novablast. A better shoe for that kind of situation is the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, which we found to have excellent grip on all types of surfaces, even though it isn’t as comfortable as the Novablast. If you want more speed performance in your next daily trainer and are willing to sacrifice some comfort, we strongly recommend the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4. But, if you’re after a single shoe that can do a bit of everything or are just looking for a solid choice for use as a daily trainer, we can’t recommend the Novablast 4 enough.

Read more:Men’s Asics Novablast 4 review

Related:Women’s Asics Novablast 4 review

Best Overall Women’s Running Shoes

Asics Novablast 4 – Women’s

Style	Neutral
Sizes Available	5 – 12 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	40 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	9 mm
Plate Type	None

We could provide a laundry list of reasons why the Asics Novablast 4 is being honored as the best all-around running shoe, but we will sum it up in one word for brevity’s sake: consistency. Lead tester Ally Arcuri notes that “the Novablast is a lightweight workhorse of a shoe that is suitable for nearly all running occasions.” Want to run a marathon and spend hours slow logging mileage on city streets? The Novablast has you covered. Want to ratchet up your speed and see how quickly you can get your legs moving? The Novablast is full of delightful, trampoline-inspired energy return.

The comfort of the Novablast 4 makes it suitable for long-distance efforts, while its balanced responsiveness allows it to be a do-it-all piece of gear. We love this shoe so much because of the underfoot combination of these two elements. In comparison with other running shoes, the Novablast earned one of the highest scores in comfort, placing it in line with some of the more maximally-minded shoes, but it rides more like a traditional running shoe. With a 40mm stack in the heel and a 31mm stack in the forefoot, the shoe provides a lot of cushion between you and the pavement without feeling overdone. One tester described it in poetic terms, “…the Novablast 4 offers a luxurious edge to your endurance efforts.” The configuration and specified placement of the cushioning allow this shoe to be comfortable and peppy, hence our recommendation if you are looking for a well-balanced pair of kicks.

It is not often that we find a shoe that can be considered nearly universal in its comfort and application, but the updated Novablast hits the mark. While no shoe is going to be perfect for every runner in every situation, the Novablast is versatile enough for runners of all kinds to consider. Specifically, we recommend the reconfigured Novablast to runners who are only looking to add one shoe to their collection. It is comfortable enough to carry you through your long, slow runs but doesn’t skimp on responsiveness either. Ally specifically notes that it provides an “energizing push-off that efficiently propels you forward” and gives a boosted feeling to your faster workouts. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options and specifications available on the market today. If you want a single running shoe that will reliably get you through the long and slow runs, speedy track workouts, and that marathon you’ve had your eye on, this is the shoe we recommend.

Like many road-specific running shoes, the Novablast lacks the traction necessary for security on wet or slick surfaces. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 has slightly better grip, but not to the extent that a grippy trail running shoe would. Occasional jaunts in damp weather are totally doable in the Novablast, but if your running takes you across slick surfaces on the regular, a crossover trail shoe like the Hoka Torrent 3 might be a better match for you. But for most runners, and most runs, Ally thinks it’s hard to go wrong with the Novablast 4, saying that “rookie runners, veterans, fitness junkies, and ultra-distance enthusiasts will all find something to love about this innovative running kick.” It is the shoe we reach for again and again for its versatility, comfort, and responsiveness on a variety of workouts.

Read more:Women’s Asics Novablast 4 review

Related:Men’s Asics Novablast 4 review

Best Value in Men’s Running Shoes

Puma Velocity Nitro 3

Style	Daily
Sizes Available	7 – 14 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	39 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	10 mm
Plate Type	None

In the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, Puma strikes a good balance of comfort, responsiveness, and versatility and slaps a wallet-friendly price tag on the whole package, making it our budget pick for men’s road shoes. It has a respectable measured stack height of 39 mm and a 10 mm drop, and the midsole features lightweight NITRO foam that we love. The upper has been improved over the last version and is now a bit more breathable. While not the best in any specific metric — its higher weight and lack of stability knocked it down a few points in our testing — we still find this to be a do-it-all kind of shoe that we enjoy running in.

We love the stack composition that Puma put together in this shoe, from insole to out, with the grippy rubber a refreshing surprise for a road shoe. The NITRO foam, which makes up the majority of the underfoot cushion in the Velocity Nitro 3, offers a satisfying bounce back after each footfall, with our lead tester Nathaniel Bailey describing it as having “a smooth landing, excellent impact mitigation, and good energy return.” We also appreciate the slight increase in stack height over the last version, which gives our joints some well-deserved cushion without feeling too sluggish. The sticky PumaGrip rubber found on the outsole tractions well on a variety of slick surfaces, giving us confidence on wet, icy roads and trails with loose gravel.

The Velocity is a great all-around model. It has a thoughtful balance of cushion, energy return, and features, giving it the potential to fit right into most runners’ shoe rotations as well as being a standalone runner. If you aren’t the type to splurge on footwear, it is versatile enough to be the only shoe you run in, taking you through a variety of training scenarios. It is great for tempo runs and fast-paced track workouts, but Nathaniel also notes that the Nitro foam does a lot to “keep our legs fresh over 90+ minute efforts; we don’t hesitate to pull these on for the long run.” It manages to pull all of this off without draining your bank account. If you are looking for a jack-of-all-trades shoe, this may be a good choice.

Although it scores above average in most metrics, the downside of versatility is that it doesn’t excel in any one area. This is not a specialty shoe. It doesn’t have the plush cushion of a maximalist model, it is not a low-slung stability shoe, and it doesn’t have the snappy rebound of a race-oriented shoe. So, if you are looking to build out your rotation with condition-specific models, you may not find a niche for the Velocity Nitro 3 in your closet. Also, we didn’t notice it on our runs, but the average weight score may also be a deterrent for some. However, none of these details are dealbreakers in our opinion, just things to consider. If you want a bit more of a kick, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 has a carbon plate and a lighter overall weight. It is hard to go wrong with a shoe like the Velocity Nitro 3. If you are a runner on a budget who wants one model to get through whatever is on the training schedule for that day, thanks to the many miles Nathaniel covered in this shoe, we can attest that it “will handle any run you throw at it.”

Read more:Men’s Puma Velocity Nitro 3 review

Best Value in Women’s Running Shoes

Saucony Kinvara 14 – Women’s

Style	Neutral
Sizes Available	5 – 12 US, regular & wide
Measured Heel Stack Height	30 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	5 mm
Plate Type	None

The Saucony Kinvara 14 is an ultra-lightweight shoe that is available for a slightly more digestible price tag than many other running shoes on the market today, which is why it earned our coveted Best Buy award… again in our women’s running shoe review. Our male testers had very similar findings, but the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 just edged ahead of it for an award. Of our test fleet, only the Nike Vaporfly 3 was lighter, and not by much and at over double the price. The updated Kinvara is a bit more responsive than previous iterations, relying on the rebound of slightly soft PWRRUN+ foam for energy return. Over miles of testing runs, tester Ally Arcuri felt that the updated foam in this shoe is still “slightly less responsive than firm-soled racing shoes but ultimately adds to the nimble sensation of its ride.” The minimalistic design offers comfort where you need it without any extras. Be warned that the fit is slightly different than previous versions based on its updated responsiveness and stack height increase, but the comfortable and breathable upper make this shoe one we recommend for budget-conscious runners needing a lightweight daily trainer.

The updated Saucony Kinvara is a lightweight superstar that is perfect for runners who don’t want to fiddle with or even think about their shoes as they run. We find it to be one of the most comfortable and unintrusive-feeling kicks in our lineup, and while this might sound like a no-brainer, there are plenty of exceptional shoes on the market that require a bit of tongue-shifting or lace-tying in the field. The Kinvara conforms to the unique shape of your feet, and its durable laces stay tied exactly as they started. Testers appreciate the tried-and-true upper that offers “a unique-to-you, sock-like fit that becomes more comfortable the more you wear it.” This comfortable mesh and PWRRUN+ running shoe stays snug around your foot, making it a low-maintenance choice.

The Kinvara stands out as an ideal choice for runners seeking a lightweight and responsive shoe tailored for long distances and quick track workouts. This running shoe’s impressive blend of versatility and affordability positions it as a compelling option for budget-conscious runners who prioritize high performance on the road. Its below average weight of 5.5 ounces per women’s size 6.5 shoe, is nothing to sniff at either. Our testers love that the shoe “strikes a nice middle-ground since it offers plenty of foam for underfoot comfort but also feels nearly weightless on the run.” With its peppy design and suitable features, the Kinvara caters to the dynamic needs of runners and even walkers by providing a balanced and cost-effective solution for those looking for a running companion without breaking the bank.

The minimalistic structure of the Kinvara lacks the lateral support that some distance runners may covet. If this detracts from its appeal for you, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a significantly more supportive shoe that scores slightly higher across the board. The outsole rubber on the Kinvara is a bit softer than some of the more durable options we’ve tested, making it less suitable for crossing over onto light trails or abrasive surfaces. The 14th version of this shoe is also not as well received as previous iterations — some folks are happy, while others report that the increased stack height completely changes the shoe. The difference is noticable, but ultimately did not change our overall experience in the shoe. If you’re not attached to the older Kinvara 13, and an affordable and peppy daily runner is what you are after, the levity and pep of the Kinvara will treat you and your wallet right.

Read more:Women’s Saucony Kinvara 14 review

Related:Men’s Saucony Kinvara 14 review

Best Balance of Speed and Comfort for Men

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

Style	Plated daily
Sizes Available	7-15 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	38 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	6 mm
Plate Type	Nylon

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a perfect fit for runners training for their next PR. Not many shoes can carry you through both long runs on the pavement and fast intervals on the track. The Endorphin Speed 4 does with ease. The PWRRUN PB foam, a smooth rocker and a nylon plate all work together to create an understated yet propulsive ride that lead tester Nathaniel Bailey says “works really well, and will do so for a wide variety of runners and use cases.” Saucony completely reworked the upper of with this version, and it’s massively improved. The heel counter is less high and stiff, and the forefoot is slightly narrower to better accommodate runners with narrow-to-normal-width feet while offering enough space to accommodate runners with higher-volume feet.

The best part of the shoe is its balance between performance and comfort. No other shoe in our lineup scored as evenly in both areas. That balance is essential to its versatility, and while it isn’t a super shoe, it’s still pretty quick. It could work as a race shoe for many runners, especially those looking for a more stable and approachable ride. It’s no ordinary workout shoe, though; our testers have found it plenty comfortable for 90+ minute efforts on the road, too.

We think most runners will get along with the Endorphin Speed 4, but it’s best suited to those who are chasing a PR with regular tempos, workouts or strides. The combination of the Speedroll rocker, PWRRUN PB foam, nylon plate and the overall lightweight package suggest this shoe is best at faster paces. We think that’s true, but the comfort and flexibility of the shoe make it a decent choice for everyday runs. Runners who only rarely try to push the pace will probably be best served by a shoe more optimized for comfort. However, the versatility of the shoe makes it a good choice in either a one-shoe rotation or as an uptempo option for faster runs. If you value comfortable speed, the Endorphin Speed 4 is aptly named.

Our biggest issue with the shoe is the price. While it’s priced competitively with similar options that score lower, $170 for a daily trainer isn’t cheap. On the bright side, we’re not concerned about durability. Our lead tester has over 175 miles on his test pair, and the shoe still feels fresh and is in good condition. It’s stayed in his lineup for days when he isn’t testing other shoes. For runners who just don’t want to shell out that much cash, the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is a similar shoe that isn’t quite as versatile or comfortable but performs well and can regularly be found on sale. If you want a big, comfy cruiser for easy miles, you’ll likely be better served by a max-cushioning option like the New Balance Fresh Foam More v4. But if you’re after the best balance of speed and comfort we’ve found in a daily trainer, we think you’ll love this shoe.

Read more:Men’s Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 review

Best Combined Comfort and Speed for Women

Puma Deviate Nitro 2 – Women’s

Style	Neutral/race
Sizes Available	5.5 – 11 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	34 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	8 mm
Plate Type	Carbon

It is not often that a shoe scores well in both the comfort and responsiveness categories, but the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is a rare exception. This shoe has a poppy carbon fiber plate embedded into its 26mm (forefoot) – 34mm (rearfoot) stack, allowing it to ride comfortably as the miles add up. While the Nike Vaporfly 3 is slightly more responsive, it lacks the comfort element of the Deviate Nitro, making the Vaporfly a less comfortable and versatile choice. From main reviewer Ally Arcuri, “for uptempo training days and comfortable races, the Puma Deviate Nitro is the shoe we reach for – and recommend.” Our male testers had a similar high regard for the Deviate. Even though it did not win an award, it was in contention to be the best overall shoe and surprised us with how consistently it scored across all metrics.

Finding a shoe that hits the mark on responsiveness and comfort is not commonplace. The carbon fiber plate inhibits some of the soft, gooey comfort other stacked shoes have, but its firm midsole provides great energy return. If leg turnover is a priority of yours, you will likely love the same elements that we do when it comes to the Deviate Nitro. With an 8mm drop, the combination of speed and comfort comes together to create a rather stable shoe, as well. While not designed for correcting overpronation, the Deviate Nitro feels secure underfoot, further securing its place as a middle distance racing superstar.

While we have a litany of praise for the Deviate Nitro, it isn’t a shoe we flat-out recommend for all runners because of its specified design features. The comfort/speed combo via a propulsive carbon fiber plate, combined with your strong, highly trained legs, makes the Deviate Nitro a great shoe for runners who are unsure about racing-focused shoes and want to take a plated shoe for a whirl. Even after miles on the track and road, Ally happily reports that “it is easy to feel the coveted pop, pop, pop of your feet rebounding with each footfall in this shoe.” It rides a lot more stably than ultra-speed shoes and is comfortable enough for distance efforts. Seasoned racers will appreciate the added comfort, stability, and streamlined fit of this updated speed shoe from Puma.

For a speed shoe, the Deviate Nitro is on the heavier side. Each women’s size 6.5 weighs 7.02 ounces, which is not a ton, but it is around two ounces more per shoe than the lightest racing shoe in our lineup. While this weight is expected since the Deviate Nitro has added cushion, it can still detract from its appeal if you are after a featherweight pair of racing kicks. If you want a lightweight racing shoe to add to your existing collection of daily trainers, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is a great option. Though less versatile than the Deviate Nitro, it weighs in under 5 ounces (per women’s size 6.5) and has a stripped-back upper for ultimate aerodynamics. The Nike Alphafly 3 weighs in between the Vaporfly and the Deviate Nitro but provides nearly unmatched responsiveness. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a great middle ground if you want a responsive shoe and some cushion. The Endorphin Speed is slightly softer than the Deviate Nitro, but both shoes are exceptional choices for runners seeking speed and comfort. But if you want a not-too-niche pair of kicks for racing day, testers mark the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 as “a great choice for speed-minded runners who also want comfort.”

Read more:Women’s Puma Deviate Nitro 2 review

Read more:Men’s Puma Deviate Nitro 2 review

Best Race Day Shoe for Men

Nike Vaporfly 3

Style	Racing
Sizes Available	6 – 15 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	39 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	10 mm
Plate Type	Carbon

When it’s time to let it rip, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is our top choice. Our testers agree that this shoe delivers serious propulsion that will likely lead to personal best times. This shoe combines an aggressive geometry, a carbon plate, and a chunk of extremely responsive ZoomX foam to create one of the fastest shoes on the market. We love it for anything from a road mile to a marathon (plus for some of our hardest workouts), and we think you will, too.

This shoe stands out for its lightweight responsiveness that drives you forward. It was the lightest shoe by a significant amount and scored at the top of our men’s lineup for responsiveness. Our testers noted that the shoe “throws you forward” and that no other shoe returns as much energy with each step. It was a revolutionary shoe when version 1 was released, and years later, in the third version, we still feel that no other shoe can propel you in the same way.

The Vaporfly is for anyone who wants to post their personal best times. Whether you are racing, want to beat your friends on Strava, or want to break your PR in private, this is the shoe you should reach for. Nathaniel Bailey remarks that the gentle rocker “feels as though it’s throwing you forward into a snappy toe-off,” and the carbon plate gives fantastic energy return through each stride. He says that when combined with “an absurdly light and airy upper,” you end up with a shoe built for pure speed. But you have to pay for it, as these shoes are double the cost of many shoes that don’t score that far behind. It’s an uncompromising shoe in both price and performance for those who want speed above all else.

As with any shoe that is hyper-focused, there are some drawbacks. This is a race shoe with cushioning that will save your legs for the later stages of the race. But that cushioning doesn’t transfer well to easy days. Depending on your foot strike, you may have mixed feelings about the cushioning. Our testers who land on the mid-forefoot feel it is super cushy, and those who land toward the back of the shoe are less impressed. To be honest, this is a shoe for hard efforts and nothing else. The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is another great race-day option that feels light on the feet and quickens your stride while offering more stability and a plusher upper. But if you’re willing to spend the money for some help as you chase that next PR, the Vaporfly 3 is the shoe we recommend.

Read more:Men’s Nike Vaporfly 3 review

Related:Women’s Nike Vaporfly 3 review

Best Race Day Shoe for Women

Nike Alphafly 3 – Women’s

Style	Racing
Sizes Available	5 – 12 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height	42 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	8 mm
Plate Type	Carbon

The Nike Alphafly 3 offers a bit of arch support with its speed, making it our female testers’ top pick for race day. Its springy midsole foam, extra Air Zoom units, and full-length carbon plate make it ideal for achieving a personal best in your next race, and lead tester Ally Arcuri says, “The bounce of the Alphafly feels like it is creating energy as you run, providing more energetic feedback the harder you push.” While not the lightest racing shoe overall, the slight arch support it offers is well worth it. Nike crafted a minimal upper with notched laces, ensuring that you’ll be able to focus on your paces and not the gear strapped to your feet.

The Alphafly is a specialty shoe that takes responsiveness to an entirely new level. The outsole shape and responsive technology are what makes this shoe so powerful. Because of this, the Alphafly is our new favorite pace-pushing shoe. Not a shoe for your everyday run, this special occasion shoe is made for racing, PRs, and high-speed track workouts. While the applications are somewhat limited, this super shoe is a fantastic addition to any athlete’s running shoe collection.

There is definitely a learning curve when it comes to running in super shoes, including this coveted superstar by Nike. Runners seeking an edge in their training and racing will love what the Alphafly offers. But beware, our tester notes that “this is a shoe to be driven, not worn.” It is sleek, fast, and powerful, but not a shoe that we outright recommend to the casual runner. The Alphafly is not going to be your everyday running shoe because of the sheer amount of tech packed into it. It is also incredibly expensive, making it feel a bit out of reach for many athletes. Its pricepoint and lack of versatility decrease its overall value, making it a poor choice for people who only want to buy a single pair of road shoes. Runners who want to find a bit more speed and already have a rotation of solid daily shoes will enjoy this high-tech addition to their arsenals.

Super shoes are here to stay, and while our female testers fell in love with the updates Alphafly, they are far from the only option available on the market today. The Nike Vaporfly 3 is an equally responsive racing shoe that offers a slightly different fit. Our men’s testing team found the Vaporfly to provide a bit more security around tight corners when compared to the Alphafly, which is something to consider before shelling out the cash needed to purchase these upper-echelon shoes. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a more user-friendly speed shoe. The Endorphin Speed provides strong responsiveness, a nylon plate that is slightly less intense underfoot, and a lockdown that will keep you comfortable through high-mileage days. It is also available for significantly less than the expensive Alphafly.

Read more:Women’s Nike Alphafly 3 review

Related:Men’s Nike Alphafly 3 review

Best Overall Trail Running Shoe for Men

Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3

Measured Heel Stack Height	31 mm
Sizes Available	4 – 13 US regular
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	9 mm
Rock Plate	Not disclosed
Measured Lug Depth	3.5 mm

If you prefer to ditch the pavement, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is the shoe we recommend. Striking the perfect balance of some essential features to look for in a trail shoe, the S/Lab Ultra 3 earned near-perfect scores in comfort, stability, and foot protection. Although it has an 8mm drop, this shoe feels as stable as some zero-drop models we have tried, and the socklike fit keeps your foot in place even on off-camber trails. These shoes feel secure going down almost any kind of terrain. The upper of this shoe was updated in the most recent version, but Matthew Richardson, lead for this review, says that it is now “more breathable while providing the same comfort and security we’ve come to expect and love.”

The incredible underfoot foot protection offered by this shoe is one of its main selling points. The foam used in the midsole is firm and dense enough to effectively protect the bottom of your foot from sharp objects, even when your landings are extra heavy. Our testers didn’t feel the need to be as delicate with their footfalls when barrelling full-speed downhill; this shoe has got you covered. The sturdiness of the foam also means that it wears more evenly and doesn’t pack out as quickly, providing great cushion and protection for the long haul. Our female tester also loved the Salomon S/Lab, noting that it is a fantastic shoe for particularly technical or aggressive terrain, but it is a bit light on the cushion, and she would opt for a softer shoe like the Altra Lone Peak 8 for a more comfortable trail excursion.

With above-average scores across the board, it is hard to go wrong with the S/Lab Ultra 3. However, some may categorize it as more of a specialty shoe rather than an ol’ reliable type of trainer. If you are an experienced trail addict who is looking for an aggressive and protective trail shoe, the Ultra 3 fits the bill. Matthew had “no problem using it on absolutely the gnarliest off-camber or technical terrain.” That said, we think it is a great shoe to add to a rotation, but would not recommend it as your sole trail runner. The firm cushioning provides solid underfoot protection against trails littered with rocks and roots, but it may be overkill for runners who usually stick to packed dirt paths or softer terrain.

The sturdy midsole left us feeling confident about underfoot protection. Still, Solomon scaled back the ruggedness of the upper, reducing it to a tightly woven mesh with the addition of film overlays only to high-wear areas, and the toe bumper is only semi-rigid. Also, the high underfoot protection adds weight and reduces sensitivity slightly. For a lighter and more sensitive shoe, take a look at the Nnormal Kjerag. The last thing to note is width: Solomon is notorious for making narrow-fitting shoes. These have more of an average width than other models from Salomon, but they may not be as comfortable for runners with wide feet. These are not dealbreakers for most people, and the S/Lab Ultra 3 is the cream of the crop for trail runners. It comes highly recommended from our team of testers, who agree that “if you are looking to increase your speed and terrain choices, this could be a good step up.”

Read more:Men’s Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

Related:Women’s Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 review

Best Overall Women’s Trail Running Shoes

Hoka Torrent 3 – Women’s

Measured Heel Stack Height	26 mm
Sizes Available	5 – 11 US regular
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	5 mm
Rock Plate	No
Measured Lug Depth	4 mm

Thanks to its almost universal comfort, the women’s Hoka Torrent 3 is what we recommend for trail runners of all experience and ability levels. Its forgiving architecture, comfortable protection, and durability all come together to make this shoe one of our favorite trail shoes on the market today. We easily ran 20+ mile distances (sometimes all at once) while wearing this protective and cushioned trail running shoe. Our women’s trail running experts applaud the sticky rubber and multidirectional lugs that are designed to grip any surface, making “the traction exceptional and well-equipped for any slick, muddy terrain you might encounter.” The lugs remain strong and beefy even when worn in harsh conditions, and the Torrent easily transfers from the trail to the road. This version has a slightly narrower toe box compared to the second iteration, but the upper maintains its ability to conform to your foot shape and running style, allowing this version of the Torrent to be just as awesome as previous versions.

We love the versatility of the Torrent 3. From long-distance days in the mountains to short, fire road strides, the Torrent is one of the most well-designed shoes in our lineup. The Torrent has a 5mm drop, which allows your heel to stay close to the ground, reducing the incidence of rolled ankles on sketchy terrain. Further adding to this shoe’s user-preference versatility is the slim 21mm stack in the forefoot. You can feel much of the trail beneath you, and our team said they “loved the balance of underfoot protection and trail information.” This is the shoe we consistently choose to train and race in. If a versatile trail companion is what you are looking for, the Torrent 3 comes with our highest accolades. While it was beaten out by the S/Lab Ultra 3 in the men’s review, our male running experts still enjoyed running in the Torrent 3, particularly for long pushes.

New runners will love how the overall feel of the Torrent 3 is a bit softer than many other high-tech trail shoes. This version of the Torrent is fantastic for those looking to try out a trail shoe that isn’t all hard edges and rigid lugs. Even without a rock plate, the Torrent is protective enough for technical trails but built well enough to protect your joints should you choose to take it onto the pavement. Kinesiologist and head tester for this shoe, Ally Arcuri, notes that the “Torrent 3 can’t get the runs done for you, but its wide base of support and other features can encourage your body to move in biomechanically correct patterns.” Veteran trail runners will appreciate the comfort and durability of the Torrent 3. It is svelte and snug enough to encourage agility, lightweight enough to help you fly down trails, and comfortable enough to be worn across myriad distances.

If a shoe with a rock plate is what you are after, the Torrent 3 is not going to be a match for you. While the Torrent is plenty protective, it does not have a plate embedded into its outsole for serious protection. Conversely, it also is not the most sensitive shoe on the market. If you are a runner who thrives while running in an ultra-sensitive trail shoe, the underfoot stack of the Torrent might not appeal to you. For prime sensitivity, check out the stripped-back and unisex NNormal Kjerag, the grippy and lightweight (and also unisex Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3, or the sensitive and stable La Sportiva Bushido II. If a comfortable shoe with a wide toe box is more your speed, the Altra Lone Peak 8 and the Topo Ultra Venture 3 will give you a bit more space while providing plenty of traction and support. However, if you don’t have width concerns, we don’t hesitate to recommend the Torrent 3 to almost every runner out there. Whenever a run takes you out to the backcountry, Ally assures that “you can trust this shoe to support you the whole way.”

Read more:Women’s Hoka Torrent 3 review

Related:Men’s Hoka Torrent 3 review

Best Value in Men’s Trail Running

Brooks Divide 4

Measured Heel Stack Height	32 mm
Sizes Available	7 – 15 US regular
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	9 mm
Rock Plate	No
Measured Lug Depth	2.5 mm

If you’re feeling timid about stepping into the world of trail runners or just don’t want to spend a ton, the Brooks Divide 4 is at your service. Stable and durable, every iteration of this shoe has been one we recommend. Version 4 keeps most aspects of the upper we know and love, but a thinner and stiffer mesh noticeably improves breathability. While not ultralight or highly technical, this dependable shoe loves smooth and simple packed trails and can even handle a jaunt through town on the way to the trail.

Aside from the lower price, a standout feature of this shoe is its stability. The Divide 4 provides a reliable platform to support your hips, knees, and ankles on moderate trails. In this metric, it is one of the best in the group of reviewed trail runners. Our tester liked that the amount of stability “…allowed for relaxation while running and eased the load during long runs.” While the stiffness doesn’t always translate into great performance on steeper or more aggressive terrain, we trust the shoe to guide good form and efficiency when the miles start to add up on long-distance efforts.

With a solid, supportive midsole and a budget-friendly price, the Brooks Divide 4 is an excellent option for those who are new to trail running or for road runners who like to dabble in trails occasionally. It is particularly well suited to runners who live in a mixed-surface environment and usually run on routes that switch between pavement and packed dirt. Lead reviewer Matthew Richardson appreciates that it “fuses light trail running and road performance into an affordable, comforting package” by providing enough underfoot protection for the trails while limiting the aggressiveness of the outsole tread that would make it unusable on the occasional paved path. Experienced trail runners may find the overall package of the Divide 4 a bit underwhelming, but at the end of the day, this is a shoe that does what it says and won’t empty your wallet if you are experimenting with a new hobby.

If your trail running has progressed to a more advanced place, the Divide 4 might leave you wanting more in terms of features and sensitivity. It’s rigid, which takes away from the flexibility you want for technical terrain, particularly if you’re moving fast. The Divide also has smaller lugs (we measured them at just 2.5mm) — with the stiffness of the shoe, these don’t impart as much confidence as we would prefer. If you are looking to upgrade to a shoe with better traction and comfort, the Hoka Torrent 3 is a good place to start without having to shell out the big bucks. That said, if you’re not moving super fast on complicated trails, or you plan to do a mix of hiking and running, this is a great contender as it “maintains its firm, supportive feel throughout prolonged usage, including extensive outings” according to Matthew. You certainly can’t beat the price, and Brooks is known for building durable, long-lasting shoes.

Read more:Men’s Brooks Divide 4 review

Related:Women’s Brooks Divide 4 review

Best Value in Women’s Trail Running

Brooks Divide 4 – Women’s

Measured Heel Stack Height	29 mm
Sizes Available	5 – 12 US regular
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop	8 mm
Rock Plate	No
Measured Lug Depth	3 mm

Our female testers felt the same way as the men on this one — the Brooks Divide 4 is an excellent choice for newer runners and trail runners on a budget. The price is right, and the traditionally focused fit is a crowd-pleaser, especially if you are accustomed to running in road running shoes. Comfortable with firm cushioning, the Divide is great for simpler dirt trails and has no problem crossing over onto pavement. “The slight softness of the lugs further adds to the Divide’s ability to wear well on abrasive paved surfaces,” according to our review team, and it is one of the few trail shoes that has this function.

The Divide 4 is perfect for those looking to test out a trail shoe without purchasing a pair that looks like they are made for scaling icy cliffs alá the techy Salomon Speedcross 6. Lead reviewer Ally Arcuri says that “this stable and lightweight shoe keeps things simple,” which is exactly how running should be. The comfort of the Divide’s interior is welcoming enough for double-digit distances, but it is also a perfect shoe for a quick jaunt down to the river. If simplicity and a wallet-friendly buy are on your radar, the Divide might be a great shoe for your trail excursions.

As mentioned, Ally recommends the Divide “to new trail runners and those who are trail-curious.” We recommend the Divide for new trail enthusiasts because it is not overbuilt like some shoes made for highly technical terrain. Runners seeking a shoe to wear down bike paths or gravely fire roads will enjoy the lug depth and comfort the Divide offers. For a shoe that you can rely on to get you through without breaking the bank, this is our recommendation.

The Divide isn’t very sensitive or overly protective, so it’s best kept to easy, packed trails. You certainly don’t have to feel limited by this, but it’s good to keep in mind if that doesn’t match your intended style. You will feel some information from underfoot, but a rock plate dampens a good bit of this, cutting down on its sensitivity. If you’re just learning the trail-running ropes, this is a great place to start. If you are a veteran trail runner with a hankering for all things technical, you will probably want to stick to a more tech-forward trail shoe/ The Divide balances a lot of great features with an approachable fit and bomber price point. If you find yourself wanting to tackle more technical trails, the Saucony Peregrine 13 has a similar and familiar fit with a bit more traction and protection.

Read more:Brooks Divide 4 review

Related:Men’s Brooks Divide 4 review

How We Test Running Shoes

Our primary focus in testing running shoes is to run in them… a lot. Our male and female testers log many dozens of miles in each pair of shoes and choose various terrain types to include in their routes. Collectively, our expert running shoe test team members have logged thousands of miles in close to 500 pairs of running shoes and counting. When testing running shoes, we pay close attention to underfoot and upper comfort, stability, cushion, traction, and weight. Depending on what type of running you do, each of these metrics will have different levels of importance, reflected in our weighting for each category. When pounding the pavement, cushion and landing comfort are the keys to keeping your joints happy. If you prefer to run on trails filled with rocks and roots, foot protection and traction will be your top priorities.

In addition to running miles and miles in each shoe, we also buy a second pair of each shoe to perform a series of tests in our lab. These lab tests include cutting each shoe in half so we can precisely measure stack heights and heel-to-toe drop, as well as measurements with a durometer to understand the hardness of each shoe’s padding. Rather than trusting the manufacturer’s measurements, we make all of our own measurements, so every specification we share is collected in a careful apples-to-apples manner. Our lab testing is then combined with our primary focus on running in each shoe, to create a complete 360 analysis of each shoe.

Why Trust WebProCare

Our main testers for this review include a collection of devoted runners with expertise in the sport, and most have spent years running and testing footwear for the WebProCare team. Ally Arcuri is an avid runner and exercise specialist with a Cal State Fullerton kinesiology degree that helps her evaluate women’s trail and road shoes from a biomechanical perspective. Nathaniel Bailey is the lead tester for our men’s road shoe review. He competed in track and cross country from middle school through college and now continues to race on the roads and coach high school and recreational runners. Matthew Richardson is our current men’s trail shoe expert, exploring as many trails in SW Colorado as he can. Specializing in computer mapping, he also does the testing for our best GPS watch review, which helps create and explore new trail runs as he tests shoes.

How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for You

You may be new to running and want to start on the right foot. You may be a long-time runner and know precisely what you like in a shoe, but are ready to branch out from your trusty model. Either way, you should consider a few things before purchasing your footwear. Each pair of running shoes has different features, and the right one depends on your personal preference and whether you want a multifunctional shoe or are okay with having a different pair of shoes for each activity.

Types of Running Shoes

Your running style and fitness goals will largely dictate which shoe style is the best for you. Suppose your typical run involves a 20-minute morning jog on the paved path around the neighborhood or a quick HIIT workout followed by a walk to the park with your kids. In that case, your shoe needs will differ wildly from the distance runner training for an ultramarathon or the trail junkie tackling rocky paths at high elevations. There are differences in men’s shoes and women’s shoes that consider the biomechanics of each gender. Some models are better for speedwork, and others offer better underfoot cushion to support long distance efforts. The location, frequency, and duration of your run all matter.

Men’s Running Shoes

Our lead tester for men’s running shoes put each model through it’s paces in a range of mid-distance loops, long runs, recovery runs, quick paced workouts, and sprinting sessions. Below are the scores outlined for our men’s road running shoes review with some of the best options available today.

Women’s Running Shoes

Similarly, our lead women’s tester put each shoe through the wringer, totaling a minimum 30 miles in each pair and testing them out in various workouts and environments. All models from our women’s road running shoes review are ranked below according to their overall performance score.

Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?

Manufacturers often make specific versions of their shoes for men and women, and you may wonder how different can they be? Is it worth seeking out a male or female-specific shoe? The answer is maybe. Women’s specific shoes are not just a smaller version of their men’s counterparts. There are a few important design differences made to accommodate the varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs of men and women.

To start, the average woman is smaller and lighter than the average male, and women’s shoes may have a softer midsole with a lighter wearer in mind. On average, men’s shoes are wider than women’s. However, women’s shoe differ in the proportional width, generally featuring a narrower heel cup to help secure the back of the foot and roomier forefoot to allow toes to splay naturally. Women are more likely to overpronate due to the difference in biomechanics and joint mobility relating to the shape of their hips and pelvis, so women’s shoes are sometimes more stability-oriented. The narrower heel cup also helps you stay secure in your shoe and guides the foot into a proper landing position.

So, yes, there are differences, but you should never feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. At the end of the day, the best shoe is the one that is most comfortable for you.

Trail Shoes

Where do you want to run? When narrowing down your options, this is one of the first questions to ask yourself. Most shoes fall into one of two categories based on the style of running they are designed for; trail runners and road runners. Trail running shoes have a more protective build, making them better suited for technical and rocky trails. Aggressive tread provides greater traction, and features like rock plates help to protect your feet from underfoot hazards, and denser midsole foam and lower stack heights help keep you grounded and stable on uneven terrain. If you are lucky enough to have access to a great trail network that you’d love to take advantage of, our review of the best trail running shoes can help you find the perfect model.

Road Shoes

If you live in a more urban environment or prefer to run indoors on a treadmill, you probably don’t need all those additional protective features, and a pair of road shoes is a better choice. They have more plush underfoot cushioning, more breathable uppers, and often have less grippy outsole rubber all of which makes them lighter weight on average. These shoes are built for the pavement-pounders out there and have features to help absorb the shock of hard man-made surfaces mile after mile. Even still, subcategories exist. We are here to help you further narrow down your options.

Each style has its benefits and can help you succeed in the environment where you train the most. However, if you only run occasionally or often participate in multiple sports during the week (or if you have maxed out your shoe budget for the month), you don’t necessarily need a different pair of shoes for every activity. Some models can take you from running to biking, hiking, or crosstraining without skipping a beat, and others make great dedicated walking shoes.

Midsole Features

The real meat of a road running shoe is found in the midsole. The materials, level of cushioning, and flexibility will help you determine if a shoe is right for you. But stack height, heel-toe drop, rocker angle; what does it all mean? These are all measurements that can tell you about the level of cushioning, support, and responsiveness you can expect from a shoe.

Below are some essential terms to know when evaluating the midsole materials and performance.

• Stack height refers to the height or the thickness of the cushioning found in a shoe. While there is no strict industry standard for this measurement, we use a standardized method to compare the shoes we test and include the total amount of material that sits between your foot and the ground, including insole, midsole, and outsole. Stack height can play a big part in how the shoe feels underfoot, and while stack height does not strictly correspond to comfort or cushiness, it is a good place to start when narrowing down your options. Taller stack heights usually offer a more pillowy feeling ride, and lower stack heights provide more sensitivity and a better ground feel.

• Heel-toe drop is the difference in height from the heel of a shoe to the toe. Traditional road shoes average around a 10mm – 12mm drop, and you can find shoes with a great or smaller drop that will be better for you depending on your running style and preferences. Higher drop measurements may be better for heel strikers, shifting impact force from feet/ankles to the knees/hips. Lower drop shoes encourage toe striking and shift the impact load from knee/hip joints to the feet/ankles. You can also look at zero drop shoes with the same stack height measurements at both the heel and the toe. Note that zero drop does not mean zero cushion; you can find a maximally cushioned shoe with a zero heel-toe differential.

Zero-drop shoes, especially trail shoes, tend to offer a bit more stability as they discourage ankle rolls over rogue roots and rocks. The lower your heel sits in the shoe, the more inherently stable your body is, as you will be more wholly engaging the rear chain off muscles from your glutes all the way down to your feet. However, runners will tight calves, arches, and plantar fascia are likely to have a somewhat painful adjustment period if they switch from a 12mm drop runner to a zero-drop runner as their muscles gain flexibility and awaken new movement patterns. Conversely, runners who are accustomed to zero-drop shoes will likely experience tenderness as they transition to a shoe with a higher heel lift. No two runners have the exact same anatomy and gait patterns, making important the need to listen to your body as your delve into the nitty-gritty details of the running shoe world.

• Rocker angle refers to the geometry near the toe of a shoe that encourages your foot to “rock” forward. A more lifted forefoot profile keeps you on your toes and allows you to expend less energy to get that forward rolling motion, which can help your runs feel more fluid and efficient. A steeper rocker angle provides a more aggressive rolling feeling and responsiveness but may compromise stability.

• Carbon Fiber and Nylon Plated shoes have a rigid structure running lengthwise through the inner sole, usually made either from carbon fiber or stiff plastic like nylon. Nike has helped make carbon-plated shoes famous with racing shoes like the Next % line and the Vaporfly that have been used to do everything from breaking the 2 hour marathon record in 2017 to resetting distance course records around the world. The sole plates are combined with special energetic foam material to help provide better energy return with each step, and in our experience, plated shoes have a springy, energetic feel that makes them distinctly fast. Many plated shoes are designed for racing or timed training runs, but newer plated shoes are innovating in ways that make them potentially suitable for everyday running. Trail shoes are not typically equipped with propulsive plates, aside from a few exceptions. Many trail shoes include rock plates made of similar materials that can provide additional underfoot protection from sharp rocks and other trail features.

How Much Cushion is Right for You?

Levels of cushioning range from maximalist to barefoot, with maximalist shoes providing the highest stack heights and the most plush underfoot cushion. Stack height for this type of shoe can be up to 45mm. Moderately cushioned shoes have a stack height between 30mm and 35mm. Barefoot shoes provide next to no underfoot cushion and may have a “stack height” as low as 3 mm, providing just a thin layer of rubber outsole to protect against abrasive surfaces.

Highly responsive shoes tend to have less cushioning and, instead, have a design focused on maximizing energy return from each step. A lower profile feels more agile and keeps you moving at a fast clip, while steep rocker angles and springy sole plates can help propel you forward. Runners who like to keep their workouts short and sweet or experienced runners who frequently participate in 5k or 10k races will probably love a shoe with higher responsiveness scores, even if it means sacrificing some comfort.

How Much Support Do You Need?

Support differs from shoe to shoe and is influenced by geometry, base width, foam density, and sometimes added internal stability structures. Neutral, stability, and motion control shoes offer varying levels of support; almost all of the shoes we test fall within the neutral category, with a few models offering extra stability features. These types of shoes are appropriate for most runners. Motion control shoes are meant to address issues with severe overpronation or oversupination. If this sounds like you, visit your podiatrist for specialized advice on shoe recommendations.

It helps to understand basic running mechanics when deciding how much support is right for you.

• Pronation is the slight inward roll of your foot that helps to absorb and lessen the impact on the joints when you land. A moderate amount of pronation is a natural part of a runner’s stride, and most neutral shoes are designed to accommodate this motion. However, if this rolling motion is exaggerated or minimized, it can lead to injury down the road. Overpronation is when the foot rolls too far inward, misaligning the ankle, knee, and hip joints and placing excessive stress on the muscles on the bottom of the foot. This often happens to runners with lower arches or more flexible feet, and when looking at the sole of your shoe, you will see excessive wear on the inner edge.

• Supination is the reverse of pronation. The natural outward roll of the ankle happens when you are bounding out of your stride and into the next. Oversupination usually occurs when the arch of the foot is overly tight and does not flex as much as it should, causing runners to put more weight on the outer edge of the foot and placing strain on the muscles and tendons used in ankle stabilization. If you oversupinate, you may see excessive wear on the outer edge of your shoe.

Stability shoes can be helpful in correcting mild overpronation and oversupination. Shoes in our testing that score higher in stability feel solid and secure underfoot and have features that guide the foot into a more ergonomic landing position. They tend to be a bit more rigid, feature wider footbeds, or have stiffer foam, all of which are meant to minimize unnecessary side-to-side rocking that can lead to injury. That said, there is evidence that running in a rotation of two to three different shoes can be more effective at injury prevention than wearing stability or motion-control shoes. The best way to know how much stability to look for in your shoe is to have your gait analyzed by a professional and try on multiple shoes based on their recommendations.

The Importance of Fit

Fit is potentially the most valuable factor to consider when buying a pair of running shoes. At the end of the day, the shoe that feels the most comfortable is the right shoe for you. There is even evidence that suggests wearing more comfortable shoes is associated with better running economy.

On that note, the fit of your running shoes will be different than that of your casual shoes. Your running sneakers should feel snug in the heel and midfoot but have enough room in the forefoot and toebox that you could “play the piano with your toes.” There should be about 1/2 to 1 inch of extra length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, allowing enough wiggle room for your toes to splay naturally through your landing.

You will find that sizing isn’t always consistent across brands. Some run large, and some run small. Some brands are known for having narrow-fitting shoes, while others have a wide and roomy toe box. Because each model has a slightly different profile, we recommend purchasing shoes from a location where you can try them on first or going through a website with a good return policy. Try on shoes at the time of day you would normally train, and wear your favorite running socks. Take them for a quick spin if you can, and always try on both shoes. Over time, you will likely dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.

Conclusion

Running is a centuries-old practice that has many mental and physical health benefits, whether you are brand new to the sport, or training for your next ultramarathon. The right pair of shoes is essential to keep you on your feet and on the move, but with the abundance of choices in today’s market, it is necessary to do the research before committing to a pair. Luckily, we have researched and tested hundreds of models to find the ins and outs of each pair, and we hope that this list of our favorites will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and running goals.