This page may contain affiliate links.  We may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links. Click here for the disclosure statement. 

From the iconic swoosh of Nike to the cloud-like cushioning of HOKA ONE ONE, the reliable stability of Brooks, the trusted performance of Asics, or the innovative designs of APL, we've got plenty of options for you to browse. So whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your running journey, you’ll find the perfect shoes to keep you moving with style, comfort, and an extra spring in your step!

What Running Shoe is Right for Me?

The most important part of selecting the right running shoe is making sure that it is a shoe that works for you. It is possible to transition from a stability shoe to a neutral shoe, but doing so slowly is important to prevent injury. As always, it is important to visit a local running store near you to get correctly fitted for running shoes.

Neutral Running Shoes

The vast majority of runners can run in neutral shoes. These shoes offer midsole cushioning, but feature no stabilizing features, which allows the foot to flex and move naturally. This type of running shoe works well for runners with medium or high arches and comes in many heel-to-toe drop and stack heights.

Stability Running Shoes

Stability shoes are for runners who may need additional support due to low or flat arches. They typically provide more medial support and cushioning. As a result, stability shoes are traditionally heavier than neutral running shoes.

Trail Running Shoes

If the majority of your running is done off-road, you’ll likely want to consider a separate pair of trail shoes. Trail shoes are often heavier and designed to support the foot on rugged terrain. Trail shoes differ from traditional running shoes with the inclusion of sticky rubber lugs for traction on muddy and wet terrain, as well as a rock plate to protect the foot from jagged surfaces. Trail shoes come in a variety of heel-to-toe drops and cushioning.

When to Replace Your Shoes

Most running shoes will last an average of 300 to 500 miles before they need to be replaced. This will vary by brand and design, as a pair of lightweight racers will wear sooner than training shoes. Old shoes with poor shock absorption and worn-out treads can lead to injury. To extend the life of your shoes, only wear your running shoes when you run (not all day running errands!) and allow them to naturally air dry between runs. Rotating between several pairs of shoes during training will also lend to the longevity of your shoes.

Best Running Shoes Under $100

Image: Amazon

Launch 9

Brooks

Price: $

The Brooks Launch 9 is a top choice for female runners seeking a neutral running shoe. It has a lightweight design that enhances speed and responsiveness. With its cushioned yet flexible construction, it provides a comfortable and efficient running experience. 

Image: Nike

Revolution 6 FlyEase

Nike

Price: $

These Nikes are built for on and off-road running. They have a thick foam cushion for soft foot strikes and a strap and wrap-around zipper that makes it easy to take them on and off, while still ensuring that they’ll stay in place while you’re running. The shoe's durable materials ensure longevity, while its sleek and stylish appearance adds a touch of flair to your runs.

Image: Amazon

Fresh Foam Arishi V4

New Balance

Price: $

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a versatile running shoe for women. It features the Fresh Foam midsole for cushioning and support, a breathable mesh upper for enhanced airflow, and a durable rubber outsole for reliable traction. It delivers comfort and performance for your runs, and is especially great if you love a monochrome option (they have several colorways, too!). 

Image: Amazon

GT-2000 10

Asics

Price: $

The Asics GT-2000 sneakers feature a rubber sole, engineered knit upper for support and comfort, a GEL Technology Cushioning System for shock attenuation, and FLYTEFOAM Technology for lightweight cushioning. The shoes use a sustainable dyeing process and are made with approximately 30% recycled polyester as the main material.

Image: Amazon

Anthem 5

Brooks

Price: $

The Anthem 5 sneaker has a mid-height rubber sole that provides cushion and traction for the duration of any run. The shoes also feature a BioMoGo DNA cushion that supports your weight, a breathable mesh upper, a segmented crash pad for smooth foot strikes, and a plush heel that won’t cause blisters.  

Image: Amazon

Charged Assert 9

Under Armour

Price: $

Though Under Armour isn’t primarily known for running shoes, the brand makes some quality sneakers. Fun fact: I ran my junior cross-country season in Under Armour shoes! The Charged Assert 9 sneakers have a modest rubber sole, a lightweight mesh upper, and durable leather overlays to keep your foot in place from start to finish. 

Image: Nordstrom

Tree Flyer

Allbirds

Price: $

Like all Allbirds shoes, the Tree Flyers incorporate sustainable materials, including a foam midsole derived from castor beans, an upper woven made with eucalyptus fibers, a natural rubber outsole, a merino wool lining for the heel, and laces crafted from recycled plastic bottles. They’re super cushioned and will make the roads a little easier on your ankles and knees. 

Image: Nordstrom

Revel 6

Brooks

Price: $

The Brooks Revel 6 Running Shoe is a versatile choice for runners. It features a comfortable fit with a cushioned midsole thanks to DNA cushioning and Fit Knit construction. The shoe offers reliable traction and durability, making it suitable for both daily training and casual running. It’s also got a removable cushioned insole to support your arches, which can help make running more enjoyable (and less achy). 

Image: Nike

Pegasus 39

Nike

Price: $

The Nike Pegasus 39 Women's Road Running Shoes are part of the renowned Pegasus line, known for their versatility and comfort. They are designed for road running and offer cushioning, responsiveness, and reliable traction. With an updated upper and midsole, these shoes provide a secure fit and a smooth, supportive ride. They come in almost a dozen neutral and bright colorways. 

Best Running Shoes $100-$200

Image: Nordstrom

Clifton 9

HOKA ONE ONE

Price: $$

The Clifton 9 Running Shoe by HOKA ONE ONE is one of the best running shoes for runners seeking both comfort and performance. With its lightweight construction and thick cushioning, it offers a smooth and responsive ride. The shoe's breathable upper enhances airflow, while the durable outsole provides excellent traction. The Clifton 9 delivers a plush combination of support and flexibility for an optimal running experience.

Image: DSW

Floatride Energy Symmetros 2

Reebok

Price: $$

These Reebok running shoes are great for beginners. They have classic sneaker elements like a rubber sole, cushioned footbed, a bumper by the toe, and a padded heel. They also have Reebok’s FloatRide Energy foam midsole for advanced cushion in every step. 

Image: Amazon

Gel-Kayano 29

Asics

Price: $$

This Asics sneaker is designed to deliver exceptional comfort and support during your runs. The engineered knit upper enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry. With sustainability in mind, at least 50% of the main upper material is made from recycled materials, reducing waste and carbon emissions. This model also uses LITETRUSS technology, which enhances medial support and midfoot integrity, providing support for runners who have excessive pronation.

Image: Nordstrom

Cloudvista Trail

On Running

Price: $$

For those runners who take it off the road, give the Cloudvista a try. On Running makes some of the best running shoes on the market, with a focus on providing stability and cushion. These sneakers have a cushioned insole for orthotics, Helion™ superfoam cushioning that feels bouncy, and a CloudTec® sole that moves and adapts to your foot with each step. 

Image: DSW

Supernova 2 Parley

Adidas

Price: $$

We love the wavy design of the Supernova 2 Parley shoes from adidas. The contrasting blue and orange are a welcome pop of color, and the sneaker’s design is crafted to make your runs enjoyable. The shoes feature BOOST and Bounce cushioning that you can practically see in the shoe’s silhouette. This pair is also part of a collaboration with Parley Ocean Plastic and contains recycled ocean plastics. 

Image: Nordstrom

Cloud 5

On Running

Price: $$

These On Running running shoes have a mostly monochrome design. They mix a breathable upper that enhances airflow, perfect for hot summer runs on the road, trail, or track. The Zero-Gravity foam cushioning provides a responsive and comfortable ride, while the durable rubber outsole provides traction that lasts well over time compared to other brands. The Cloud 5 delivers a smooth, lightweight, and effortless running experience. 

Image: Nordstrom

Rincon 3

HOKA ONE ONE

Price: $$

The HOKA ONE ONE Rincon 3 shoes offer an exceptional blend of cushioning and comfort. With a maximalist design, these running shoes optimize your performance for training or racing. Incorporating Meta-Rocker technology, they deliver an explosive toe-off for added acceleration. These shoes feature cushioning that absorbs impact and distributes weight, giving you a buoyant feeling with every stride. Designed for consistent comfort at any distance, these shoes are made with a removable, cushioned insole for additional orthotics.

Image: Lululemon

Blissfeel Trail

Lululemon

Price: $$

If you’re looking to try a new running shoe brand, consider giving Lululemon’s engineered running shoes a trial run. The Blissfeel Trail sneakers are lightweight and have directional traction on a lugged outsole to keep sure footing no matter what you’re running through. The shoes were made based on 1 million foot scans, so the molded heel support, firm rubber sole, and springy cushion are all incorporated for a reason. 

Image: DSW

Triumph 20

Saucony

Price: $$

Saucony has been a consistent top dog in the running shoe game for decades. The Triumph 20 is another of the brand’s best running shoes with fun colors, mesh upper fabric and lining, a sturdy rubber sole, cushioned footbed, and PWRRUN+ midsole for additional support on those long runs. 

Image: Amazon

Glycerin StealthFit 20

Brooks

Price: $$

With nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, these shoes are lightweight, responsive, and incredibly comfortable. The new StealthFit construction ensures an adaptable fit, thanks to the Fit Knit upper that seamlessly adjusts to your foot's movements, while providing breathability. The redesigned midsole and outsole create a wider platform for smooth transitions. The Fit Knit upper also enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable.

Image: Altra Running

Paradigm 6

Altra Running

Price: $$

The women's Paradigm 6 shoe by Altra offers the perfect blend of support and comfort. It features the luxurious and responsive Altra EGO™ MAX midsole foam, which provides a cushioned and responsive ride. The shoe's slim design challenges the perception of a support shoe, while its support features ensure stability. And, by using GUIDERAIL technology, the sneakers keep your foot striking right where you want. The Paradigm 6 also has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance.

Best Running Shoes Over $200

Image: APL

TechLoom Zipline

Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL)

Price: $$$

You may recognize the APL Techloom Zipline sneakers from social media, and they’re popular for good reason, namely their innovative construction. The seamless TechLoom upper offers lightweight breathability with engineered ribbing for added stretch. Surrounding the upper, the APL TechLoom Ziplines provide lateral and longitudinal support while still maintaining flexibility. The FutureFoam midsole offers maximum cushioning, and the unisex design means you can shop every shoe. 

Image: Amazon

Bondi 8

HOKA ONE ONE

Price: $$$

The Bondi 8 sneakers take the cake for being the most cushioned and shock absorbent shoe on our list. Just look at them! You’ll gain a few inches when you slip your foot into these clouds. They’re one of the best running shoes for people who are healing injuries and who like a plush footbed. Like other HOKA designs, they have a breathable upper and good traction. Because of the extra cushion, the Bondi 8s are great for long distance running. 

Image: APL

TechLoom Wave

Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) 

Price: $$$

The APL TechLoom Wave running shoes offer a low-key silhouette, yet have reliable running design features. With a breathable TechLoom upper and responsive cushioning, these shoes will give a supportive ride. The TechLoom Waves have lateral and medial support and an upper that moves with your feet. This unique color scheme adds a touch of flair to your runs, and you can tuck laces into a lace loop for a clean and chic slip-on look. 

Image: Nike

Vaporfly 2

Nike

Price: $$$

The Nike Vaporfly 2 Women's Road Racing Shoes are designed for speed and performance. Featuring advanced Nike ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon fiber plate, these shoes provide exceptional energy return and propulsive power. The lightweight and breathable upper offers a comfortable fit, while the durable outsole ensures excellent traction. They’re perfect for distances from your family’s annual Turkey Trot to a half marathon.

Image: Amazon

Vapormax 2021 FK

Nike

Price: $$$

The Nike Air VaporMax 2021 combines modern design with advanced technology. The Flyknit upper offers a lightweight and breathable fit, while the unique VaporMax Air unit provides responsive cushioning for a comfortable stride. The shoe's futuristic aesthetic and durable outsole make it a stylish and functional choice for everyday wear beyond your runs.

Understanding your Running Gait

While many will tell you otherwise, there is no single ‘best’ running shoe. It’s important to note that many factors play into the ‘perfect shoe,’ such as your weight, activity level, terrain you run on, biomechanics and even the shape of your foot. Due to each person’s unique and individual needs, it is important to know your specific gait pattern. Your running gait is broken down into three types of pronation: neutral, supination (underpronation), and overpronation. Knowing your pronation type is important for selecting the best shoes for you, since most running shoes are designed with these three types in mind.

Pronation

This refers to the natural rolling movement of the foot while running. As your foot strikes the ground, the arch of your foot naturally collapses to help your body absorb the shock of impact. Pronation refers to the side-to-side movement of the foot during running or walking. A small amount of pronation is necessary and normal. Neutral pronation occurs when the weight naturally shifts from the outside of your foot to the big toe, with the other toes aiding and stabilizing in push-off. However, when the foot moves too far in either extreme (overpronation or supination), it can cause issues and even injury. A pronation test (or a more in-depth gait analysis) can be done at a running store near you to identify your pronation type.

Overpronation

Overpronation occurs when the ankle rolls too far inward. Those who overpronate tend to push off almost completely from the big toe and second toe, causing strain. Overpronating runners often experience an increased incidence of shin splints, posterior tibial tendonitis and knee pain due to the excessive rotation of the foot and tibia. Overpronation is most commonly seen in runners with flat feet or fallen arches.

Supination

Supination (or underpronation) is the opposite of overpronation. This occurs when your foot rolls too much to the outside. During the foot strike, the weight is not transferred to the big toe for push-off. As a result, extra stress is placed on the outer edge of the foot and smaller toes, leading to possible plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendontiis or iliotibial (IT) band syndrome. Supination typically occurs in runners who have a high arch that does not collapse enough to cushion the strike.

Understanding the Running Shoe Lingo

While there may be many brands of running shoes to choose from, each with their own specific design, it’s important to understand the general terms of fit when you’re choosing the correct running shoes. These terms are universal across all shoe brands, although you will want to choose a pair of running shoes that best fits the needs of your specific foot.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Heel-toe drop, also known as offset, refers to the difference between the height of the heel and the height of the toe. While a change in heel-to-toe drop doesn’t necessarily cause injuries, it can be important to note as this affects how your foot strikes the ground when you land. A low to medium heel toe drop (0 to 8mm) favors a forefoot to mid-food strike, whereas a high-drop shoe (10-12 mm) may be better for runners who heel strike.

When it comes to choosing your running shoes, there is no best heel-to-toe drop. Barefoot running gained popularity after the book, Born to Run, was published, suggesting that the human foot has no elevated heel and therefore, a zero drop shoe is optimal. However, if you do plan to transition to a minimalist or low-drop shoe, it’s important to transition slowly to avoid injury to the calf and Achilles tendon.

stack height

Stack height refers to the amount of material, or cushioning, between your foot and the ground. Barefoot, or minimally cushioned shoes, have a low stack height. These shoes would be optimal for runners who prefer a more responsive shoe and enjoying feeling the ground when running. A lightweight racing flat would have a low stack height. For runners who prefer more impact protection, a higher stack height would provide more cushioning. These shoes would be optimal for recovery or everyday training. However, most running shoes fall in the middle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Running Shoes

If you’re ready to purchase your first pair of running shoes, make sure to read through this list of common mistakes when purchasing shoes.

Not Getting Professionally Fitted

If you’ve read this far already, you know the importance of getting properly fitted at a local running store for a pair of running shoes. If you have been fitted in the past, but taken a long hiatus from running or drastically changed your workout routine, it would be worth it to be refitted for running shoes before purchasing. Many brands discontinue old models of running shoes, so it may be worth discussing with a shoe fit expert what current model is right for you. Most importantly, make sure to take the time to find a shoe that fits right on your foot. Many running shoe stores will have a guaranteed return policy if the shoe does not work for you after several runs.

Buying Based on Price/Style

Running shoes can vary widely in price. Nike’s newest Vaporflyshoe comes in at a whopping $249, while the Brooks Launch is a much more modest $99. While Nike’s shoe may cost 2x as much, it doesn’t necessarily mean that a lesser priced shoe is of less quality. The vast majority of running shoes are priced between $125-150.

The same could be said for buying a running shoe based solely on its looks. Flashy, brightly colored shoes with shiny detailing and multi-colored soles might look great, but if they do not fit your feet correctly, they are a poor purchase. Too often, shoppers fall victim to buying based on vanity and not paying attention to the important factors: fit and function.

Falling for Marketing Terms

Every brand of running shoe will market its own unique, specific feature. Nike’s Vaporfly is reportedly designed make you faster and run more efficiently. The Hoka Clifton claims to be the softest ride on the market. There is a huge array of fitted uppers, rubber treads, and patented technology that make each shoe different from its competitors. Regardless of what shoe you choose, it should be because it fits well for your foot, not because of some “limited-edition” feature.

Buying a Shoe to Correct An Issue

If you’re buying a stability shoe because of a problem with overpronation, note that it may not be the solution to your problem. A stability shoe is specifically designed with cushioning on the inside of the shoe to prevent the foot from excessive inward movement. This is meant to control the weakness in the arch when walking or running. While orthotics or stability or motion-control shoes may be the answer for some, one common reason for overpronation is a lack of normal ankle flexibility and range of motion. If the ankle is unable to move properly, additional padding on a shoe may make the problem worse. In fact, it could lead to improper alignment at the knee and place additional stress on the hips. It is crucial to identify the cause of your overpronation and strengthen the muscles in the foot and calf to prevent further injury.

If you are having ankle or knee issues, do not attempt to self-correct with a shoe. See a licensed physical therapist or doctor to understand what options are best for you and if adding strengthening exercises into your routine will help prevent injury.

Buying the Wrong Size

Since your foot will swell during prolonged activity, many people find that their running shoe size is a 1/2 size to one full size larger than their regular shoe size. However, this size may vary over style and brand. A good trick to make sure that your running shoes fit properly is the “the rule of thumb.” With your shoelace tied and tightened, make sure your heel is in the back of the shoe. There should be one thumb’s width of space between the longest part of your foot (the top of your big toe) and the front of the running shoe.

It is also important to make sure that you do not shop for running shoes immediately following a workout as your feet may have expanded. To make sure that you get the correct size, shop closest to the time that you would traditionally workout for the most accurate fit.

Not Picking A Shoe to Match Your Needs

The last step in finding the correct running shoe for you is making sure that it matches your needs. If you are a looking for an everyday shoe to log high weekly mileage, you do not want to purchase a lightweight racing flat. If you are looking for a fast race shoe, you likely do not want a maximally cushioned shoe. Having several pairs of running shoes to rotate throughout the week will allow you to have the greatest variety of running shoes and ensure that you have shoes to meet your individual training needs.