We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
While you can technically run wearing any kind of sneakers, it’s best to wear shoes designed for running or jogging, especially if you’re an athlete. Running shoes are versatile enough for everyday wear but fundamentally designed to provide superior comfort, support, traction and flexibility while running.
There are several things to consider before buying a new pair of running shoes, but fit and comfort trump everything else. Shoes that don’t fit right or feel uncomfortable can affect your performance and lead to injury. Once you’ve found a pair of running shoes that fit well, it’s time to consider other factors such as durability, air ventilation, grip and cushioning.
To narrow our recommendations, we researched and checked out high-quality running shoes in the BestReviews Testing Lab. Our top pick, the Brooks Men's Run USA Ghost 15 Running Shoes, are the way to go for experienced runners. They’re advanced-engineered to provide top-notch comfort and breathability over extended periods and offer excellent energy transfer for smoother strides.
Although these shoes have a durable build, they’re surprisingly lightweight, making them solid for beginners or anyone who wants comfort for casual wear. The upper has a seamless construction for a secure fit and feel, and they have a plastic insert for increased momentum.
The best thing about these shoes is that they’re embedded with FuelCell foam, which facilitates increased energy transfer for a smoother ride and provides long-lasting comfort so your feet don’t get too tired on long-distance runs. The rubber outsole has fantastic tread, making them suitable for running on various surfaces, and you can get them in white, black or grey.
These running shoes are a customer favorite for several reasons, but none more chiefly than their support and eco-friendly construction. More than 75% of this shoe’s upper is made from recycled materials, and the sockliner is engineered using a method that significantly reduces water usage and carbon emissions.
They’re designed for comfort and provide a flexible fit for a secure feel. The Ortholite X-55 sockliner offers step-in comfort, and Pure Gel technology in the midsole provides increased stability and responsiveness on strides. The rubber outsole is engineered for maximum traction on various surfaces.
If you’re working with a budget, you won’t find better running shoes than these. They have a streamlined look that makes them suitable for all-day wear and they offer a wonderful balance of cushioning and flexibility that's appropriate for all runners.
The lightweight mesh upper has a three-color digital print for improved airflow and breathability, an EVA sockliner for step-in comfort and durable leather overlays that give your foot a locked-down feel and a secure fit. The midsole is packed with compression-molded foam for efficient energy transfer, and the rubber outsole is designed to minimize shock impact.
These running shoes are a safe bet for runners who want high-end support and stability during mid- or long-distance runs. They have a Tri-Flex sole for elite performance and traction over rugged terrain, and the cushioning is evenly distributed between the heel and forefoot with an 8-millimeter offset, giving you a more balanced and neutral landing position after each step.
The mesh upper is designed for optimal breathability, and you’ll get plenty of support thanks to the innovative Everun cushioning, which softens the shock impact on each stride. They’re a smart choice for runners who tend to overpronate as they run and don’t take long to break in.
We thoroughly tested these running shoes, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. We love these shoes for their lightweight build and super arch support. Although not engineered with advanced technology like some of our other favorite shoes, we found that they get the job done and are suitable for activities besides running, such as light weightlifting.
They’re machine-washable and constructed with all-natural materials, effectively reducing odor buildup. Unlike other sturdier running shoes, they don’t take too long to break in. They’re terrific for running on flat surfaces such as cement, and the streamlined, minimalist design makes them comfortable enough to wear while running errands.
After considering a wide range of men’s running shoes, we tested the Allbirds Men's Tree Dasher 2 Running Shoes.
The size and fit are the most crucial considerations of any shoes you wear. Knowing your shoe size makes shopping for running shoes much easier, but it’s important to note that not all shoes will fit you comfortably, even if you have the correct size. It can help if you account for foot shape and shoe build. For example, those with wide feet may find shoes with a narrow build constricting, which can cause swelling or pain.
The best running shoes are made with high-quality materials built to last. You don’t want your shoes to show signs of wear and tear after only a few running or jogging sessions. The upper should be made with durable mesh for breathability, and the outsole should be made with tough rubber for consistent traction.
You want your running shoes to be durable but also lightweight. Heavier shoes affect your performance and tire you out more quickly, while lightweight shoes help increase your mobility and flexibility, allowing you to run faster and longer distances.
The last thing you want is for the heel and sole of your foot to hurt after a running session, so choose running shoes with plenty of cushioning in the midsole. Those with soft foam cushioning facilitate efficient energy transfer and reduce shock impact. It helps you move with increased flexibility and provides stability as you run.
A. You can find reliable running shoes for $40 to $100. However, they’re not as durable as premium running shoes with advanced technology and materials costing up to $160.
A. The biggest mistake runners make when buying shoes involves choosing a shoe based on looks alone. A shoe must fit properly and support your foot to reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, people tend to get running shoes that are too small, especially in width. Your feet swell a little bit as you run, meaning your shoes need to accommodate this swelling.
A. A traditional running shoe performs best on pavement or indoor surfaces. Running shoes feature a lightweight design for distance running, sacrificing some support, while trail running shoes offer thicker soles and sturdier materials to provide increased support on uneven surfaces.
A. Step in a pan of water with your bare foot and then take a few steps on cement or multiple paper towel segments. A medium or average arch yields a traditional foot shape with a slight curve in the middle, while a flat arch results in a print with little to no curve in the middle, leaving flat sides.
A. Men’s running shoes are typically a little wider than women’s and offer less impact support than men’s shoes because of their average weight difference.
