The Best Running Shoes On The Market Today, Road-Tested By Our Editors

Editor’s Message: On January 5th, we updated our footwear choices to confirm availability and included additional high-performing footwear from our latest round of testing. As new models are released throughout 2025, we will update our selection.

We’ve tested and probed every major shoe of the past 12 months – just check out our YouTube channel. We’ve also got the inside scoop, travelling to expos and meeting with shoe brands to hear what is working best for runners and what is coming down the pipe next year.

Here, our in-house shoe guru Alex Cyr – along with our entire editoral team – take a look at the best of the best. Our selection of shoes that represent the best on offer in the various categories. 

From road to trails, cushioning to control and shoes for injuries and competition – we’ve put hundreds of miles in them all.

It’s been an amazing year for running footwear, with the quality and quantity of great shoes on the market having grown with improved with leaps and bounds. 

So, let’s go. Here is our selection of the best running shoes on the market right now.

#10 Best Innovative Training Shoe: Hoka Mach X2

The Hoka Mach X 2 is a versatile running shoe that bridges the gap between daily trainers and race-day footwear. It features a dual-density midsole combining a top layer of responsive PEBA foam with a firmer EVA layer beneath, delivering a cushioned yet energetic ride. The redesigned PEBAX plate with stabilizing winglets enhances propulsion and provides a smooth transition from heel to toe. The single-layer woven upper ensures breathability and a secure fit, while the minimal outsole coverage contributes to its lightweight design.

Why We Love It:

• Dual-density midsole offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.
• Redesigned plate enhances propulsion and stability.
• Lightweight construction suitable for uptempo training and racing.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Unpadded heel collar may cause discomfort; wearing longer socks is recommended.
• Slightly narrower platform may affect stability for some runners.

#9 Best Reliable Trainer: Brooks Ghost 16

The Brooks Ghost 16 is a neutral daily trainer that offers a balance between cushioning and responsiveness. It features an engineered mesh upper for breathability and a secure fit, paired with a nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole for a soft yet energetic ride.

The segmented crash pad outsole ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making it ideal for long runs or daily wear. Weighing 9.8 oz with a 12 mm drop, this shoe is perfect for heel strikers and is available in multiple widths to accommodate diverse foot shapes.

Why We Love It:

• Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam provides soft yet responsive cushioning.
• Available in a range of widths to suit different foot shapes.
• Plush, padded tongue and collar enhance step-in comfort.

Potential Drawbacks:

• High 12 mm drop may not suit midfoot or forefoot strikers.
• Slightly heavier compared to other neutral trainers in its category.

#8 Best for Overpronators: Saucony Tempus 2

The Saucony Tempus 2 is a stability running shoe designed for runners who need support without compromising cushioning or responsiveness. Its FORMFIT mesh upper adapts to the foot, providing a secure and personalized fit. The midsole combines PWRRUN PB foam for energy return with a PWRRUN Frame for added guidance, ensuring a lightweight yet supportive experience. At 8.9 oz with an 8 mm drop, this shoe caters to overpronators looking for a dynamic ride.

Why We Love It:

• Lightweight foam for great cushioning and impressive energy return.
• The frame is designed to offer subtle guidance for overpronation.
• Lightweight design enhances speed and performance.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Stability features might feel intrusive for neutral runners.
• Limited color options may not appeal to all tastes.

#7 Best for Maximum Cushioning: Hoka Clifton 9

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight neutral running shoe known for its plush cushioning and signature Hoka comfort. Its engineered knit upper provides breathability and a secure fit, while the EVA foam midsole delivers a soft, cushioned ride ideal for daily training or long-distance runs. The Durabrasion rubber outsole enhances durability without adding extra weight. At 8.7 oz with a 5 mm drop, the Clifton 9 is perfect for runners who value comfort and natural movement.

Why We Love It:

• The foam midsole provides signature soft cushioning.
• Lightweight design at 8.7 oz ensures effortless strides.
• Engineered knit upper enhances breathability and comfort.
• Durable outsole strategically placed to reduce weight.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited stability features may not suit overpronators.
• Soft cushioning may feel less responsive for speedwork or racing.

#6 – Best Super Shoe (You Can Actually Get Your Hands On): ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris

The Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris has gained a following among runners who prefer a balance of power and minimalism. This shoe is favored by North America’s fastest marathoner, Cam Levins, for its lightweight and propulsive qualities.

Why We Love It:

• Lightweight: Minimal build compared to other super shoes.
• Dual Styles: Available in Metaspeed Sky and Metaspeed Edge, catering to different running styles.
• Ground Feel: Offers a connection to the ground, appealing to those who dislike bulkier shoes.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Minimal Cushioning: Not for those seeking maximum midsole muscle.
• Toe Propulsion: Designed to propel runners onto their toes, which may not suit midfoot or heel strikers.

#5 – Best Shoe for Workouts: ON Cloudmonster Hyper

The On Cloudmonster Hyper is a max-cushioned running shoe designed for long-distance comfort. It combines On’s signature CloudTec technology with a new Helion HF (PEBA) foam, providing a responsive and cushioned ride.

The stiff nylon Speedboard enhances energy return, while the engineered mesh upper offers breathability and a secure fit. With a 6 mm drop and weighing approximately 9.3 oz (272g) for men’s size 9, the Cloudmonster Hyper is ideal for runners seeking a comfortable shoe for extended runs.

Why We Love It:

• Combination of CloudTec and Helion HF foam offers superior cushioning.
• Versatile performance suitable for various running paces.
• Breathable upper ensures comfort during long runs.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Premium price point may be a consideration.
• Initial clunkiness; may require an adjustment period.

#4 – Best Shoe for Beginners: Asics Gel Nimbus 26

The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is a premium neutral running shoe designed for plush comfort and long-distance performance. Its engineered mesh upper with 3D Space Construction provides a breathable and adaptive fit, while the FF BLAST PLUS midsole and GEL technology deliver a soft yet responsive ride.

The AHAR outsole ensures durability and traction, making this shoe ideal for daily training and high-mileage runners. At 10.5 oz with a 10 mm drop, it’s suitable for a variety of running styles and available in multiple widths.

Why We Love It:

• New midsole and gel technology provide exceptional cushioning.
• Durable outsole offers reliable traction across surfaces.
• Upper adapts to the foot for a custom feel.
• Excellent option for long-distance runs due to plush comfort.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Higher price point may deter budget-conscious runners.
• Heavier than other neutral trainers in its class.

#3 Best Daily Trainer: New Balance 880V14

The New Balance 880v14 is a reliable neutral trainer designed for daily runs, offering a comfortable and durable build. The double jacquard mesh upper promotes breathability and stability, while the Fresh Foam X midsole provides a plush yet responsive ride. Its rubber outsole delivers excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for various surfaces. Weighing 9.6 oz with a 10 mm drop, the 880v14 is available in a variety of widths to accommodate diverse foot shapes.

Why We Love It:

• Fresh Foam X midsole offers plush cushioning with a responsive feel.
• Breathable and supportive double jacquard mesh upper.
• Blown rubber outsole ensures durability and excellent traction.
• Available in multiple width options for a tailored fit.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Moderate responsiveness may not appeal to runners seeking a faster shoe.
• Heavier compared to some other neutral trainers.

#2 – Best Super Shoe: Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1

The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is an ultra-lightweight racing shoe engineered for elite performance. It features a superlight midsole with Lightstrike Pro foam, providing exceptional energy return and cushioning. The shoe incorporates carbon-infused EnergyRods that mimic the metatarsal bones, enhancing propulsion and reducing energy loss. The upper is constructed with a lightweight, breathable mesh for a secure fit. With minimal weight and a design focused on speed, the Adios Pro Evo 1 is tailored for competitive racing.

Why We Love It:

• Ultra-lightweight design enhances speed and performance.
• Lightstrike Pro foam offers exceptional energy return.
• Carbon-infused EnergyRods provide efficient propulsion.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited durability due to minimalist construction.
• High price point may be a consideration.

#1 – Best Overall: Asics Superblast 2

The Asics Superblast 2 is a versatile super trainer suitable for various types of runs, excluding racing. It combines FF Blast Plus Eco and FF Turbo Plus foams in the midsole, offering a responsive and cushioned ride. The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and comfort, while the AsicsGrip outsole ensures durability and traction. With a stack height of 45 mm in the heel and 37 mm in the forefoot, and weighing approximately 8.8 oz (250g) for men’s size 9, the Superblast 2 is ideal for long-distance training and daily workouts.

Why We Love It:

• Combination of premium foams offers a responsive and cushioned ride.
• Versatile performance suitable for various training runs.
• Durable outsole provides excellent traction.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Slightly higher price point compared to other trainers.
• Initial stiffness in the upper may require a break-in period.