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Whether you’re entering your running era or have always loved running as a form of exercise, a pair of good sneakers is super important. For years, I had sworn by my Adidas Ultraboost sneakers; however, when I repurchased a pair a little over a year ago, the quality and design were not as good as they had always been. Running in those shoes caused me to wake up every morning barely able to walk. I had pain in my feet that I had never experienced before. After a few months of self-induced torture, I’d had it! Enough was enough — I then began the search for the best running shoe.
After visiting my local running shoe store and trying on just about every pair, I settled on the Brooks Glycerin. It was the perfect comfort and design that I loved. However, I wouldn’t knock any of the others I tried on, too. I’ve now been running in my Brooks shoes for a year, and it’s about time for me to purchase a new pair.
One question I’ve been asking myself recently is if I had to choose the perfect running shoe all over again, which shoes would I put up against each other to buy? I did just that, and today, I’m sharing the best of the best running shoes on the market. If you’re looking for a new pair, I promise, these are the shoes to buy.
1 Year Update: I absolutely loved the Brooks Glycerin running shoes. They were everything I needed and more to start my running journey. I’m now running with the Hoka Bondi 9 running shoes and am even more obsessed. They are more cushioned than the Brooks running shoes and provide more bounce. I’d truly recommend either shoe, because they are both amazing.
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3 Key Elements to Choosing the Perfect Running Shoe
1. Comfort
Comfort is the most important factor to take into account. My rule of thumb has become: if it doesn’t feel like I’m walking around running on a cloud-like cushion, this shoe is not for me. A cushioned and supported foot is what will make the difference in your long-distance running journey.
2. Weight
Many running shoes are going to be lightweight, making it easier to move. However, there are some shoes that are labeled “running shoes,” and they feel a bit clunkier than others. Just something to consider when you’re trying out a new pair of shoes.
3. Design
Lastly, the design (aka the color and aesthetics) of the running shoe is not to be excused. One reason I chose the Brooks Glycerin shoe was because of how it looked on my feet. Other things to consider are the colorways. Specific color combinations and the colors of the souls are also important determinants of the type of shoe you buy.
The Best Running Shoes to Buy
After trying on and researching more about each running shoe, I’ve compiled a list of all the brands and styles of shoes I’d recommend, furthermore taking into account the 3 key elements
1. HOKA Clifton 10
HOKA
“I am a Clifton girl to heart, this is my 6th pair and never disappoints!”
- True to Size
- Features: Low-top style, double lace lock lace-up vamp, jacquard knit uppers, reflective details, Smooth MetaRocker™, almond toe, rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame™, cushy CMEVA midsoles, molded EVA sockliner, durable abrasion rubber soles, additional 3mm in heel-to-toe drop
2. HOKA Bondi 9
HOKA
“Love these shoes so much! I work on my feet and for long hours, these are perfect! Highly recommend!”
- True to Size
- Features: Breathable mesh uppers, 3D molded collar, molded EVA sockliner, reflective upper details, pull tab, smooth MetaRocker™, rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame™
3. HOKA Arahi 8
HOKA
“The cushion on this is excellent. I’ve put about 40 miles on them and I feel speedy and supported in them.”
- True to Size
- Features: Reflective details, Stabilizing H-Frame™ technology,Dual-density compression molded EVA, Super abrasion rubber soles
4. Women’s Glycerin 23
Brooks
“The Glycerin 23s are my favorite daily trainers and easy run shoe. I have already went through several pairs. I love the wider toe box, cushion and yet light weight feel. This shoe is comfortable with a good response. Love this shoe and will continue to buy. I also love all the color options too as a fun bonus!”
- True to Size
- Features: Tuned cushion, Accommodating fit, Smooth & stable transitions
5. Women’s Glycerin Max
Brooks
“Very cushioned shoe. I like it even better than my previous Ghost Max pair. This has helped to alleviate my foot pain and back pain when I’m on my feet all day in the gym. Will definitely purchase more colors!”
- True to Size
- Features: Tuned cushion, Ultimate protection, Effortless transitions
6. Women’s Ghost Amp
Brooks
“The perfect shoe for me. The only one that basically acts like a protective shield for every part of my feet. No pain ever (other brands tend to hurt my toes and transverse arch), and so lightweight I don’t even think about what I’m wearing when running. Been using it for many years for road running.”
- True to Size
- Features: Soft cushioning, Smooth transitions, Enhanced upper
7. Women’s Experience Flow 3
Altra
“I have been running in the Escalante but wanted something with a drop. The Flow is great, slight drop but not too much. A little bit of rock to them which is nice. Cushioned but not overly so. The toebox seems about the same as the Escalante to me so no issues there. Seemed true to size. I’ve got over 50 miles on them and I’m quite happy.”
- True to Size
- Features: Roomy toe box & zero-to-low drop
8. Women’s Torin 8
Altra
“Great shoe. Super cushion and roomy toe box with zero drop and a good propel forward.”
- True to Size
- Features: a softer Altra EGO™ MAX midsole foam, a mesh upper & molded heel collar for a comfortable step-in, updated midsole foam that’s soft and light
- Best for: Daily runs & walking
