Why you can trust us
We don't accept free products or compensation in exchange for our reviews. We may earn an affiliate commissions when you buy through us. Learn more about how we evaluate products.
The 6 Best Running Shoes for 2024 – and 12 Other Options
People always ask us "what is the best running shoe?" - but as you can imagine, there isn't really one.Different kind of running shoes serve different purposes for different runners.
The best shoe for your daily training runs will be vastly different than a rugged shoe meant for covering mud, rocks and ice.
Also - not two runners are the same. For these reason we split our recommendations into different category of shoes - and for each category we highlight a "winner", a "runner-up" and a "also consider" option. For each shoe you can read in detail what they are better for, and which kind of runner should buy them or avoid them.
Why you should trust our recommendations
- We purchase all the shoes ourselves. We never accept free shoes from shoe companies. This is by far the highest expense in running this website - but we gladly do it so that we don't have to ask "please" or say "thank you" to anyone - and guarantee our reviews are completely impartial.
- We review more than 120 shoes each year. The only way to know running shoes is to test as many as possible. From Nike to Altra, from Hoka to ON, from the top of the range to the budget options.
- We run at least 50 miles in each shoe. A quick run is not enough to properly evaluate a running shoe. We always take a shoe through easy 3-5 milers, long run, speed efforts... Our team is of more than 12 testers - always alternating shoes and brands so that each one is familiar with different brands, technologies...
- We have been doing this since 2009. We have been the first website to properly and thoroughly review running shoes, starting 15 years ago. We know what we are talking about.
Keep reading for our selection!
Table of content
Our 6 favorite running shoes for each category
Keep scrolling or click on a shoe to find out why we chose it and what other shoes you should consider.
Best for Daily Training
Best for Stability
Best Max Cushioned Running Shoes
Best for Fast Training
Best for Trail Running
Best Racing Running Shoes
How to pick the right running shoes
The first thing to consider when choosing a pair of running shoe is what will you be using them for.
Are you just starting out and looking for your first running shoe? You are looking for a daily trainer, or a supportive daily trainer. You’ll want Max Cushion if you are a heavier-set runner or if simply you are looking for the max comfort.
Here are other things you should know when picking a running shoe:
Comfort and Fit
Before you look into different kind of foams or technologies, make sure you pick a shoe that fits you well and it’s comfortable.
You’ll be taking approximately 6,500 steps for each 5k you run. A shoe that is too short, or too wide, or too constrictive… will make you hate running in them.
Test them in shop if you can. Wear them both, walk with them, jump in them and take a short run around the store if you can. A shoe that is not comfortable in those first 5 minutes will most likely not be the right shoe for you.
Cushioning
The sole of your running shoes will absorb some of the impact of your foot landing on the ground – this is what we call cushioning.
With each running step you experience a force approximately 3 to 5 times your bodyweight.
Shoes with a high degree of cushioning will mitigate the impact on your ankles, knees and the rest of the kinetic chain.
But cushioning also means that some of the force you exert gets absorbed by it, instead of being directly transformed into propulsion.
Responsive vs Plush Cushioning
When we talk about cushioning, you’ll often hear us use one of these terms: plush or responsive.
- Plush is the feeling you have when running on dry sand on a beach. The step is soft and cushioned, but a lot of your energy is absorbed by the sand – requiring you to put more effort into running.
- Responsive is the feeling you have when running on wet sand. The step is less cushioned, but you go faster, easier.
The choice is personal and depends on what you use the shoe for (racing? long slow training miles?). To start, we recommend shoes with a good balance between the two.
Stability and Support
Many runners, me included, have unstable ankles – hindering their ability to properly absorb the impact while running.
A running shoe can provide stability by adopting solutions such as a wider foot-base, a dual-density midsole or technologies like Brooks’ Guard Rails.
If your ankles are your weak spot, you should be looking into shoes that provide support.
Best for Daily Training
As the name suggests, your daily trainer is the shoe you use most often for your training.
The shoes we recommend in this category have balanced cushioning (not too plush, not too responsive) and can be used for a variety of runs at different paces.
We prioritised comfort, versatility, durability and value for money while making this selection.
The winner
In short
The Saucony Ride 17 is a superb neutral daily trainer which excels in versatility. While it still doesn’t have much flair, it has excellent stability and durability, and it represents great value. Version 17 has a more modern ride than version 16 due to its upgraded PWRRUN+ midsole. It has noticeably more energy return but it comes in at a much heavier weight.Pros
- Increased energy return from new PWWRUN+ foam
- No more midsole squeak
- Durable outsole
- Good stability
- Softer ride
Cons
- Big weight increase
- Slappy outsole
Who should buy it
If you’ve tried the Saucony Triumph and you found it too soft and unstable, the Ride 17 is a great alternative. If you want a no frills trainer similar to the Pegasus or Ghost but with a more lively ride, the Ride 17 is a good option.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a lightweight trainer for mostly speed work, the Ride 17 is not your shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Saucony absolutely smashed it out of the park with the Ride 17. In short, it's a very comfortable, versatile shoe that is at ease at a different range of speeds and that provides a touch of stability. It has an engaging, lively ride that feels more modern and exciting than most of its competitors. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 is a cushioned daily trainer that is an everyday shoe for most runners of all abilities. It has a great rocker ride that is both smooth and soft. The heel tab can rub the back of your ankle, though, which would definitely bother some people.Pros
- Rocker leads to smooth ride
- Lightweight
- Can be used for uptempo runs
Cons
- Heel tab can rub on ankle
- Durability concerns
- Traction
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle most types of runs, this is a great shoe. Beginner runners will love this shoe as an all-around shoe that can provide great cushion and a smooth ride. Intermediate to advanced runners will likely use this for easy and long run days. Most runners will be able to use this for some uptempo days – think marathon paced runs.
Who should not buy it
If you have had issues with a high heel tab, then this shoe will likely rub on your ankles. If you’re looking for a highly durable shoe, I’m not sure this shoe will last given the outsole.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
8.9 oz
Heel
34 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
42 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
10
Landing
8.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
The Cumulus continues its tradition of being a dependable, smooth and enjoyable running shoe for everyone, but we recommend it especially to beginners, due to how well balanced its ride is. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Adidas Supernova Rise is a superb all-round daily trainer. It features support rods which stiffen its forefoot, giving it a mild rockered ride with efficient transitions. It also has a brand new Dreamstrike+ PEBA based midsole which isn’t extremely energetic but it does offer a decent amount of energy return. Its main weakness is that it has a snug forefoot which requires you to go up a half size, however, this is still the best Adidas daily trainer to be released in years.Pros
- Balanced ride and excellent versatility
- Forefoot rocker increases efficiency
- Smooth ride transitions
- Great lockdown
- Very stable
Cons
- Narrow forefoot and toe-box
- Tongue is not gusseted
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a daily workhorse which is stable and durable, the Supernova Rise is a great option. It’s a textbook daily trainer which you can use for all types of training runs.
Who should not buy it
If you want a super light, very flexible trainer, the Supernova Rise is not for you. If you have wide feet, the Supernova Rise is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
26 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Supernova Rise is the best Adidas trainer in years and it could easily be the one shoe that you will use for all of your training. Compared to other daily trainers in the same price bracket, the Supernova Rise outperforms most of them. Read full reviewBest for Stability
If your ankles are unstable, there are plenty of modern supportive running shoes that will help you keep a proper running gait without constricting you or feeling too clunky. These are our favorites.
The winner
In short
The New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 is an exceptional everyday max stability trainer; it is stable, versatile, and comfortable. This Vongo gets high marks in all the right places: an upper that forms to and holds the foot in stable position and a midsole plate that provides stability and acts as a springboard.Pros
- Smooth, supported ride
- Secure fit
- Joyful toe-off
Cons
- Outsole grip and durability
Who should buy it
Middle to long distance runners who want some stability in their cushioned ride will enjoy Vongo v6 for daily training including long runs, Tempo work, and longer speed intervals.
Who should not buy it
Vongo’s thin, low-traction outsole is less ideal for runners who often run in (any type of) precipitation. Do not go with this shoe if your outsoles show heavy uneven wear patterns.
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.5 oz
Heel
35.5 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
29.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
6.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
In a very competitive market (stability shoes), New Balance came up with a shoe that is both stable, cushioned and that has a nice "pop" to it when you want to increase the pace. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 is a structured trainer that can take a pounding. The build quality is top-notch, and uses impressive materials. However, this shoe is not very inspiring on the foot.Pros
- Very comfortable shoe for all day
- One of the best uppers I've run in
- Top-notch build quality.
- 70+ miles in, and it feels like new.
Cons
- Almost no bounce
- Harsh landing
- 70+ miles in, and it feels like when it was new.
Who should buy it
The Wave Inspire is designed for runners needing a moderate amount of stability help who want to log a lot of miles. It is made for people with a light foot impact, and I’d suggest lighter runners.
Who should not buy it
This is not designed for those who want a little more bounce, and a softer ride. If you have a heavy foot impact, I would look elsewhere.
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.6 oz
Heel
37.5 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
12 mm
Toe
25.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
10
Upper
10
Sole unit
5.0
Landing
5.0
Transition
6.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
10
Durability
10
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Wave Inspire has never been a revolutionary shoe - what it does well is to provide reliable stability in a shoe that will last you for miles and miles. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Altra Paradigm 7 is a unique max cushioned stability trainer. Small changes were made to improve a great trainer to make it one of the leaders in the max stability field.Pros
- The Natural Ride System
- Adaptive Stablity
- Comfort
Cons
- Longer adjustment and break in period
Who should buy it
A runner who is looking to step out of their comfort zone and try a unique stability trainer.
Who should not buy it
A runner who needs a drop higher heel to toe drop of zero or who needs lots of stability.
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
30 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
0 mm
Toe
30 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Stability shoes are traditionally very conservative, often with traditional (10-12mm) drops. If you think you are ready to go zero-drop, the Paradigm is the shoe in the Altra range that provides great stability. Read full reviewBest Max Cushioned Running Shoes
If you are a heavier runner, or if you simply prefer to run on a soft, plush base - modern max cushioned running shoes is what you are looking for.
Comfort is the name of the game for these shoes - not only in terms of cushioning but also in terms of the materials used for the uppers.
The winner
In short
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 is a cushioned daily trainer that is an everyday shoe for most runners of all abilities. It has great outsole grip, soft enough cushion, and a stable, responsive ride.Pros
- Versatile
- Stable
- Lots of cushion
- Great traction
- Eco-conscious
Cons
- On the heavier side
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle most types of runs while having a good amount of cushion, this is a great shoe. Beginner runners will love this shoe as an all-around shoe while intermediate to advanced runners will likely use this for recovery, easy, slower tempo, and long run days.
Who should not buy it
If you’re not a fan of a higher stack shoe or are looking for a fully plush shoe, then this shoe won’t be something you’ll love. Also, if you’re needing a shoe that is lighter in weight, I would also look elsewhere. If you’re an intermediate to advanced runner looking for a speedy shoe, this shoe will not meet your demands.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.7 oz
Heel
41.5 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
33.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
10
Upper
10
Sole unit
10
Landing
10
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
10
Durability
10
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Nimbus 25 was one of our favorite shoes of last year. The 26th version is an incremental upgrade that improved the upper fit and the outsole durability. If you want max cushion in a hyper-comfortable shoe, this might be the one! Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Brooks Glycerin 21 is a good max-cushioned trainer with a supportive, deeply cushioned ride that's best suited to slow running. It doesn't have a very lively ride but it feels luxurious and has plush landings. The improved version 21 has a more comfortable but warmer knitted upper with a wider toe box. It has a softer, more cushioned ride than its predecessor due to 2 mm extra stack height.Pros
- 2 mm extra stack height results in a plusher ride
- Wider and more comfortable toe box
- Smooth, stable transitions
- Durable construction
- Weight decrease
Cons
- Not as energetic as other max-cushioned competitors
- Laces feel cheap and fray easily
- Very warm upper
Who should buy it
If you’re a heavy runner (above 90 kilograms) or you prefer your max cushioned trainers to be stable and not super soft, the Glycerin 21 is a great option.
Who should not buy it
If you want a cloud-like ride similar to the Nimbus and Invincible Run, the Glycerin 21 is not the shoe for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10 oz
Heel
38 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
28 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
One of the most luxurious feeling in a max cushioned running shoe. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The On Cloudmonster 2 is actually a versatile max cushion daily trainer. It handles speed moderately well and it can go the distance. The fit leaves extra room throughout the upper but it’s not unpleasant.Pros
- Tons of cushion
- Stylish
- Durable
Cons
- Fit is inconsistent
Who should buy it
The Cloudmonster 2 is perfect for someone who spends a lot of time on their feet during weekend long runs. Someone attempting a marathon or ultra distance race would also benefit from the cushion it provides.
Who should not buy it
People who are particular with their fit should not buy the Cloudmonster 2. The shoe fits wide for feet that have high arches and that are narrow.
It has plenty of cushion, but it’s a little stiff so someone who is looking for a softer foam should not buy this shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.4 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Cloudmonster 2 should be your choice if you are looking for a max cushioned shoe, but still would like to increase the pace during your (long) runs. Read full reviewBest for Fast Training
Not all your training miles are the same. If you are trying to lower your PB you should definitely add some higher-speed training sessions.
Maybe your daily trainer is not lightweight/responsive enough and you want to keep your very expensive racers (with their short durability) for race day.
Fast training shoes (or training companions as we sometimes call them) are shoes that are meant to be fast, but still durable enough for many many training miles.
The winner
In short
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is an excellent lightweight speed trainer which is perfect for any run faster than easy pace. Its new midsole which is a blend of PEBA & EVA delivers an energetic, engaging ride which makes it want to pick up the pace. Version 4 feels more like a speed trainer than version 3 which was slower and felt more like a daily trainer. V4 is firmer and more enjoyable for uptempo running.Pros
- Firmer, faster ride with significantly more energy return
- Feels more like a speed trainer
- Great value for money
- Excellent breathability
Cons
- Upper is too voluminous
- Price increase of $10
Who should buy it
If you enjoy doing speedwork in trainers without a plate, the Rebel v4 is a great choice. If you want a similar ride to the SuperComp Elite v4 but with natural transitions and more ground feel, the Rebel v4 is also a great choice.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a workhorse daily trainer for mostly easy runs, the Rebel v4 is not the shoe for you. If you want a stiff, plated speed trainer for long runs, the Rebel v4 is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
7.5 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
The ride of the Rebel v4 is a step ahead of other non-plated trainers. Its midsole foam feels like something that you’d find in a super shoe: lightweight, plush with good energy return. Version 4 is an excellent update. It feels more like a Rebel than version 3 did because it’s more speed oriented. It’s a lot easier to pick up the pace in the Rebel v4. Version 4 is my favourite version to date and I’d definitely buy it again. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Adidas Adizero Adios 8 is a lightweight shoe that can be used for fast workouts and racing. While it doesn’t have the same energy return as the Adidas Adios Pro 3, the brand’s carbon-plated shoes, they do a great job of disappearing on your feet while giving you a great ride on your fast run.Pros
- Lightweight
- Smooth, fast ride
- Great outsole grip
- Very breathable upper
Cons
- Laces can become untied
- Slightly long
- Low durability
Who should buy it
This is a great shoe for anyone looking for an alternative to the carbon plated shoes for either fast workouts or for shorter distance race (5k/10k or less). If you’re looking for something that complements your stride and encourages you to pick up the pace, this is the shoe for you!
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a shoe with energy return, good support, and decent cushioning, then this shoe isn’t for you. If you are looking for a shoe that will last 250+ miles, I’m not certain that this shoe will do that nor will can this shoe be your everyday trainer.
Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
7.4 oz
Heel
28 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
20 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
10
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
The Adios 8 is a lightweight trainer and racer that is definitely a great addition for most runners as part of their rotation. It is very lightweight and the ride is smooth. You feel the propulsion that the shoe is designed to give you. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 is a "super" trainer that has the feel of a race day shoe along with the durability that will last. If you are looking for a valuable shoe that can take on any task, this can be a quality option.Pros
- Price for a "super" trainer
- Durability on the outsole
- The unique geometry of the midsole
- Dual Layer midsole of Mizuno Enerzy Lite+ and Enerzy
Cons
- Heel striking can be an issue.
- Upper on the toe box can cause some irritation.
- Stability of the midsole
Who should buy it
If you are looking for an all-around shoe that you can train in and race in this is the ideal shoe. And at only $170 USD, you won’t be breaking the bank compared to other super trainers or race day shoes such as the Adidas Prime X Strung or the Nike Alphafly.
Who should not buy it
If you run with your heel this is probably not the shoe for you. The geometry of the heel being cut off will be a hard adjustment for those heel strikers.
Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.6 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
0.5 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
This is a fast trainer with a very particular geometry. Not as extreme as the Rebellion Pro but still better suited for runners with a very stable stride and possibly that forefoot-strike. Read full reviewBest for Trail Running
It goes without saying that you shouldn't run trails in a road shoe.
Trail running shoes offer the right protection (both in the sole and in the upper) and grip to tackle unfriendly terrains.
The winner
In short
The Brooks Caldera 7 is a highly cushioned trail shoe designed for medium to long distances. Built for supreme comfort and stability, this shoe will keep you feeling fresh on almost any terrain.Pros
- Incredible value
- Lots of energy return and cushion
- Effortless ride
- Above average durability
Cons
- Still heavier than competitors
- Odd color options?
Who should buy it
This shoe is ideal for runners logging a high number of miles that need maximum cushion, stability and above average traction.
Who should not buy it
I wouldn’t recommend them as the first choice for runners performing in short distance trail races. Also, runners that prefer a close to the ground feel may not find it in the Caldera 7.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
10.6 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
33 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
I can’t remember the last time I liked a shoe as much as the Caldera 7’s. They really do check all of the boxes for what a long distance shoe should do. Brooks has a shoe that can compete with the likes of Hoka and other well known maximal trail shoes, which is exciting to see. I would highly recommend the Caldera 7 to any runners looking for a shoe that can handle mile after mile but still maintain the attributes that make it great. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The North Face Altamesa 500 is a max cushion trail shoe that can handle long distances, even ultramarathons. Comfort and durability are just two of the many attributes that you’ll love if you give these shoes a try.Pros
- All day comfort
- Lots of cushion
- Premium quality
- Above average durability
- Adequate on pavement
Cons
- Heavy
- Timid tread pattern
Who should buy it
This shoe is for anyone looking for a road-to-trail option that performs well on both. They should also be in consideration for ultra marathon type distances.
Who should not buy it
They are not light weight by any means and won’t provide runners with a close to the ground feel. If you’re looking for either of these things, steer clear.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
10.4 oz
Heel
38 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Outside of the testing period, the Altamesa 500’s have been my go to sneaker for family hikes, weekend activities and anything that requires shoes. They look cool, are super comfortable and can withstand the rigors of ultramarathon distances. I’d recommend this shoe for anyone looking to add a max cushion trail running trainer to their running shoe lineup. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Asics Gel Trabuco 12 is an exceptionally stable all-terrain running shoe that inspires confidence on varied terrain types, including dirt, grass, snow, and ice.Pros
- Exceptionally stable
- Reliable traction
- Comfortable out of the box
Cons
- Heavier than its competitors
- Speed limit in more technical terrain
Who should buy it
For a road-to-trail runner looking for maximum stability and versatility on longer runs with varied terrain.
Who should not buy it
Trail runners looking for a lightweight, maximalist shoe or are focused on shorter, speedier efforts.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
11.1 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
28 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Asics Gel Trabuco 12 is an exceptionally stable all terrain running shoe with a variety of use cases. While a stability shoe had not previously been one I considered a necessary part of my running shoe quiver, I appreciate the comfort and reliability of a stability shoe over maximalist for similar use cases. For road-to-trail out my house over varied terrain that may include winter conditions, dirt roads, dusty singletrack, and non-technical trails, these are comfortable and reliable for racking up mileage. Read full reviewBest Racing Running Shoes
2024 is Paris Olympics - the race for the fastest running shoes will be fierce. New racers will drop in the next weeks and months and we'll be ready to test them.
For now, these are the racing running shoes we recommend!
The winner
In short
The Nike Alphafly 3 is a superb top-tier racer and the best Alphafly version to date but it’s not deserving of its megahype or its $285 price. While it lacks the ‘magical’ feeling, it still has a combination of critical features (light weight, firm, stable, efficient) which provide a high level of speed assistance to the runner. Version 3 is a much better version than 2. It has a continuous bottom which results in smoother transitions, a stiffer midsole and most importantly, a wider...Pros
- Smooth transitions due to new continuous bottom
- Stiffer midsole results in snappier ride
- Stable ride with wider carbon plate
- Less prominent arch
- Lighter weight
Cons
- Narrow midfoot might still create arch blisters
- $10 price increase over previous versions
- Loud foot strikes
Who should buy it
If you don’t have sensitive arches and you enjoy firmer riding super shoes, the Alphafly 3 is a good choice. If you find the Vaporfly 3 too soft or flat, the Alphafly 3 is also a good option. If you want a light racer that disappears on your feet, get the Alphafly 3.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a plush racer with a squishy ride, you should skip the Alphafly 3. If you want a super shoe with an extreme rocker that throws your forward, it’s also not your shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
7.7 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
7.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
The Alphafly 3 is, right now, the marathon racing shoe to beat. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is a fun, stable long-distance racer. It has one of the softest and most cushioned rides of any super shoe but it lacks a high level propulsion. This is due to its cushioning still being too soft and its gentle forefoot rocker which doesn't give you a big forward tipping sensation.Pros
- Much better, more comfortable upper than v3
- Improved heel lockdown
- Increased cushioning
- Faster ride than v3
- Durable outsole
Cons
- Not as propulsive as other super shoes
- Too similar to the SC Trainer
- Heavier than v3
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a super soft, long-distance racer with good durability, the SC Elite v4 is an option. If you want something less aggressive than other super shoes which is easier on the legs, it’s also a good option.
Who should not buy it
If you want a really stiff, aggressive and firm-riding racer, the SC Elite v4 is not the shoe for you. If you want a super lightweight racer, it’s also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
8.1 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
4 mm
Toe
36 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
A fast but comfortable racer, one of the best updates of this year. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is a good racer which is best suited to marathon racing. It has a soft, stable ride and a very stiff carbon plate but it isn't in the top tier of racers due to its midsole foams and geometry. Version 4 has a softer ride and a less aggressive forefoot rocker so it doesn't have as much oomph but it has more long-distance comfort.Pros
- Improved upper comfort
- Durable midsole foam
- No more tongue slide
- Grippier outsole
- Softer ride
Cons
- Narrow toe box - need to size up
- Less aggressive forefoot rocker
- Feels slower than v3
Who should buy it
If you are looking for your first carbon-plated racer, the Endorphin Pro 4 is a great option which has a “friendly” ride. It has good stability, excellent cushioning and comes in at a lower price than most flagship super shoes.
Who should not buy it
If you enjoyed the Endorphin Pro 3 but you want something more aggressive and faster, the Endorphin Pro 4 is not the shoe for you.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
7.4 oz
Heel
39.5 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
31.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
10
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
For really fast efforts (ie, you want to beat the world record) you should go to the Endorphin Elite - but for running a fast marathon, the Pro 4 is a great racer. Read full reviewQuick Questions you might have
What's the best running shoe brand?
After 15 years and 1200+ running shoes tests, we can comfortably say there is not a best running shoe brand. The competition is fierce and information is readily available: any brand not producing great running shoes would simply not have survived.
Do I need a running shoe?
While technically you could run in anything (or even barefoot), running shoes are designed for the simple but unique running gait: from heel to toe-off. Shoes for other sports might be focusing on lateral movements or change of direction, while not focusing in shock absorption and forward motion.
How much should I spend for a pair of running shoes?
A $70 running-specific shoe will be better than any non-running shoe. This said, more expensive running shoes will generally be better than cheaper options. $100 is a great place to start, with $130-$140 being the median price for great daily trainers. Racers usually cost closer to $250.
Do I need stability running shoes?
A very simple test you can do to check your ankle stability is this. Stand on one foot for 45-60 seconds. Does it come easy, or do you wobble and struggle? In this case, you might benefit from a supportive running shoe.
