Trail running shoes are like adventure partners: find a good one, and you feel safe, confident, and excited to explore all sorts of terrain. We put the season鈥檚 offerings to the test on every kind of topography, from Rocky Mountain singletrack to Santa Barbara bluffs, Nebraska gravel backroads, and the rocky, rooty maze of the Appalachian Trail. Our team scrutinized every model鈥檚 fit, traction, and ride, and selected the winners for their ability to confidently and comfortably take us where we want to go, time and again.

Update April 2025: We鈥檝e tested and selected new models in nine categories, including a new best all-around pick of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide. We are continually testing and will be updating this list of best trail running shoes throughout the year as new models impress our testers and editors.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around: Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide ($250)
• Runner-Up All-Around: La Sportiva Prodigio Pro ($195)
• Best Trail Super Shoe: Adidas Agravic Speed Ultra ($220)
• Best for Ultrarunning: Hoka Tecton X 3 ($275)
• Best Daily Workhorse: Scarpa Spin Ultra 2 ($179)
• Best Value: Saucony Peregrine 15 ($140)
• Best Zero Drop: Altra Lone Peak 9 ($140)
• Best for Speedy Scrambles: Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx ($112)
• Best for Soft Terrain: Scarpa Spin ST ($179)
• Best for Groomed Trails/Gravel: The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4 ($160)
• Best Road-to-Trail: Nike Pegasus Trail 5 ($140)
• Best Max Cushioned: Brooks Caldera 8 ($150)
• Most Natural Ride: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 ($150)
• Best for Beginner Trail Runners: New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 ($155)
• How to Choose a Trail Running Shoe
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Best All-Around

Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide

Weight: 10.2 oz (unisex)
Stack Height: 41鈥�35 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 4.5-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5.5-14, 15 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Unmatched combo of comfort and trail performance
鈯� Quick-feeling for such a cushioned shoe
鈯� Outstanding grip
鈯� Quicklace system is difficult to adjust

Thick soles typically feel unstable on rocky, rooty trails, sloped surfaces, or sharp descents. But the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide defies expectations, delivering a surprising blend of cushioning, stability, and responsiveness. 鈥淚’m always a little wary of big-stack trail shoes because some of them feel mushy and slow, or even worse, unstable,鈥� said one tester. 鈥淭hese were none of those. I felt like I nestled right into the soles and bounced right along.鈥�

Aesthetically, the S/Lab Ultra Glide looks like no other. The funky-looking wavy midsole with ankle-deep sidewalls combines a chassis of firmer EVA for stability with a softer, bouncier PEBA/EVA core underfoot. The outsole molds to the wavy midsole, creating circular indents across the bottom of the foot, designed to defuse impact. The combination works: the shoe delivered a soft, responsive, and adaptable ride that morphed over uneven terrain. On the open trail, the four-millimeter lugs proved reliable, biting into packed dirt and loose gravel with ease.

鈥淭he shoe provided a smooth, supported run on a variety of terrains,鈥� noted one tester, who was surprised that even when the footing got rocky, the S/Lab Ultra Glide 鈥渄elivered a commanding performance, allowing for precise, responsive running.鈥�

The soft but strong engineered mesh upper molded and moved with the contours of the foot, while providing a slight stretch for added toe box room. The gusseted tongue snugged our insteps nicely, but Salomon鈥檚 signature Quicklace system takes some adjusting each time you lace up to get the proper amount of pressure鈥攏ot a dealbreaker, but not quite an effortless 鈥渟et it and forget it鈥� experience.

Once dialed in, however, the fit and ride topped every shoe in this year鈥檚 test selection, making them the shoes we always seemed to reach for.

Runner-Up All-Around

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro

Weight: 8.9 oz, 7.9 oz
Stack height: 34鈥�28 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizes: 7.5-15.5 (men鈥檚), 5.5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lively midsole that still allows ground feel
鈯� Great traction
鈯� Some pressure on the top of the foot

The Prodigio Pro runs unlike any other La Sportiva shoe we鈥檝e ever tested. We鈥檝e enjoyed many from the brand, known for its nimble, rugged trail models. But this one is the softest to date and delivers a remarkably lively, fun ride. The midsole鈥攁 core of bouncy, nitrogen-infused TPU surrounded by a more stable, nitrogen-infused EVA cage鈥攆eels snappy underfoot. 鈥淵our foot just pops off the ground with each step,鈥� said one tester.

The bootie construction鈥攁 sock-like, engineered mesh upper encircling the ankle鈥攕uccessfully kept trail debris from sneaking inside the shoe. The durable upper, made from a mix of polyester, TPU, and nylon threads that the brand is calling 鈥淧ower Wire鈥� mesh worked in conjunction with the secure midfoot wrap to hold our feet securely and comfortably. One knock on the upper: The tongue, with an interesting, tubular padding, caused a little irritation on the top of the foot beneath the laces for some testers. Most, however, found it a comfortable upper overall, one that was a pleasure to pull on.

Underfoot, a Frixion outsole with multidirectional, four-millimeter lugs did a fantastic job at gripping all surfaces. 鈥淭his shoe has great traction in mud, slush, dirt, rocks, and roots,鈥� said one tester, who noted that the shoe performs expertly on off-camber terrain. 鈥淭his shoe makes me feel more nimble and quick than most shoes do.鈥�

Best Trail Super Shoe

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

Weight: 9.5 oz (men鈥檚), 8.1 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 38鈥�30 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fast, smooth, and lively ride
鈯� Adaptive stability
鈯� Not great in really rocky terrain

Every Agravic Speed Ultra tester was in awe of how easily faster paces felt while wearing this shoe. 鈥淚 consistently ran about 30 seconds per mile faster while running in these shoes than what the effort felt like,鈥� said a masters tester. Adidas designers skillfully adapted the elements of a road super shoe to create a similar, effort-reducing, propulsive feel in a shoe that works on the uncertain terrain of the trail.

Underfoot, the main ingredients are a bouncy-but-not-too-soft gas-infused TPEE-based midsole working harmoniously with an embedded, trail-specific 鈥減late.鈥� Instead of a solid, rigid plate, Adidas uses semi-flexible rods that react independently to variations in the terrain. Made of PEBA in its hard plastic form as often found in track spike plates, the four prongs in the forefoot and two in the heel are splayed wider and closer to the edges than those in Adidas鈥檚 road shoes, to enhance stability. One tester said the resulting ride 鈥減rovided a lively pop without being tippy on variable surfaces or prescribing a set, rigid roll.鈥�

Deep sculpted side walls surround a beveled heel, delivering smooth, secure landings, and a narrow midfoot waist widens to a generous, flared forefoot, providing an agile and stable stance. The aggressively rockered geometry from heel to toe delivers what one tester described as 鈥渁 balanced ride that makes it easy to stay forward on my feet and drive backward with each stride, creating a quick, powerful push-off.鈥�

For the outsole, Adidas uses the same trustworthy, grippy Continental rubber found on most of the brand鈥檚 running shoes. This trail-specific version features variable 2.5- to 3-millimeter lugs for surefooted, no-stress traction. As one might expect in a high-level racing shoe, the upper is kept to a minimum for weight reduction. Made with a non-stretch, breathable, quick-drying, woven material, we found it offered a secure, snug lockdown while providing a touch of abrasion protection.

Given the tall stack height, testers had to cautiously check their foot placements through technical rocky terrain. But wherever the terrain smoothed out and allowed for full strides, the Agravic Speed Ultra came alive and delivered a ride that testers said felt like flying. If you鈥檝e been holding out for a plated trail racing shoe that gets almost everything right, the wait is over.

Read our full review of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.

Best for Ultrarunning

Hoka Tecton X 3

Weight: 10 oz (men鈥檚), 7.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 40鈥�35mm (men鈥檚); 39鈥�34mm (women鈥檚)
Drop: 5 mm
Sizes: Men鈥檚 7-14, Women鈥檚 5-11

Pros and Cons
鈯� Gaiter keeps out trail debris
鈯� Excellent balance of comfort and responsiveness
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 feel tippy, despite carbon fiber plates
鈯� Pricey

This third iteration of Hoka’s Tecton X is the best yet (and we鈥檝e loved them all, awarding the debut model Gear of the Year in 2022). Like the first two, the Tecton X 3 features two carbon fiber plates within each shoe that sit parallel to each other, allowing them to move independently. This enables the shoe to morph over rocks and roots instead of tipping the foot, a sensation we鈥檝e felt in some trail running shoes that utilize one large plate. The two plates in the Tecton X 3 are slightly wider than those in version 2 and feature a winged shape under the heel that鈥檚 meant to add to the shoe鈥檚 stability on technical terrain.

Other updates include a softer layer of PEBA foam above the plate and directly beneath the foot which testers reported enhances the joint-comforting cushion over long, rugged runs. The bottom layer of foam remains firmly responsive for a tactile ground feel.

And then there鈥檚 the unique upper. While some testers were skeptical of having a gaiter built into the shoe, it proved not only comfortable but also highly effective. A tester who worried the material around the ankle would annoy her reported, 鈥淭he gaiter is stretchy and adds to the overall comfort and techy feel.鈥� Every tester appreciated how the built-in gaiter kept debris out of the shoes with zero irritation or awkward clips. The Matryx upper, made of high-strength synthetic yarns, was stretchy enough for easy on-and-offs and to move with the foot, while also doing a great job holding feet in place over wild terrain. Its also highly breathable: 鈥淚 ran straight through a river, and the shoe dried out very quickly,鈥� said a Boulder, Colorado-based tester.

The entire package鈥攖wo layers of foam, four-millimeter Vibram Magagrip lugs, carbon-fiber plating, and a gaiter鈥攃omes in at minimal weight for such a rugged and feature-rich ride. 鈥淭his thing is light, especially for a trail shoe,鈥� marveled a female tester, adding, 鈥淚t鈥檚 absolutely speed-inspiring.鈥� The Tecton X 3 is our pick for ultra-runners and regular folks looking for a great shoe that can tackle the most mountainous terrain in comfort.

Best Daily Workhorse

Scarpa Spin Ultra 2

Weight: 10.2 oz (men), 8.8 oz (women)
Stack Height: 28鈥�24 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Sizing: EU 40-47, 48 (men鈥檚), EU 36-43 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Durable outsole, midsole, and upper construction
鈯� Nimble and cushioned ride
鈯� Runs narrow

When the Scarpa Spin Ultra first came out in 2019, it impressed our crew so much that we named it the Gear of the Year. It embodied everything we looked for in a trail running shoe鈥攁 secure yet comfortable fit, a protective midsole with dependable cushioning, and an outsole with outstanding traction. Six years later, Scarpa has completely updated this award-winning model, retaining those award-winning characteristics while making it tougher than ever.

The most notable update is Scarpa鈥檚 debut use of Supercritical TPEE foam. This high-tech midsole material is created by injecting a gas into the foam and exposing it to extreme pressure and heat, creating bubbles that make the foam light and bouncy. While the Scarpa midsole is not as soft and trampoline-like as some of the supercritical foams we鈥檝e tested, its firmer nature provides impressive durability, stability, and quick underfoot responsiveness. One tester described the shoe as a 鈥渧ery stable, rugged trail runner, with minimal flex.鈥� Another said, 鈥淭he midsole cushions just enough to dampen impact without dulling the feel for and engagement with the trail, enhancing nimble footplants and springy toe-offs.鈥�

Like a lot of European-made shoes, testers found the Spin Ultra 2 to fit rather tight, especially in the toe box. Once laced up, the recycled mesh upper with bio-based TPU print overlays doesn鈥檛 have much give, locking your foot securely in place. While it enhances stability on technical terrain, it may feel restrictive for runners who prefer a bit more wiggle room.

If you鈥檙e after an easygoing, plush shoe, this isn鈥檛 it. But if you prefer a firmly-responsive stance and stable ride that can get beat to hell and keep going, these are for you.

Best Value

Saucony Peregrine 15

Weight: 9.7 oz (men鈥檚), 8.6 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack height: 28鈥�24 mm
Drop: 4 mm
SIZES: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚); 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Performance features at a reasonable price
鈯� Light, flexible, and nimble ride
鈯� Deep outsole lugs
鈯� Forefoot cushioning can feel slight on long runs

In an era that鈥檚 serving up increasingly fat midsoles, we鈥檙e happy to see that Saucony鈥檚 longtime performer remains relatively low to the ground, making it flexible and connected to the trail. It doesn鈥檛, however, run too firm. The reformulated EVA-based midsole with a premium, bouncy TPU-based insole feels soft underfoot and is plentiful enough to cushion the impact even on hard rocks and packed dirt.

The Peregrine 15鈥檚 outsole features aggressive, widely spaced, five-millimeter-deep, chevron-shaped lugs made of Saucony鈥檚 proprietary rubber compound. The bite gives the Peregrine secure traction on soft terrain, like loamy soil and fresh snow. Due to its low profile, secure-fitting upper, and light weight, the shoe also feels nimble on rocky, technical terrain. That upper is a simple, flexible-but-rugged mesh with a gusseted tongue and midfoot straps that tie into the laces, keeping the foot snugly in place.

鈥淭hese kept me stable while running on both singletrack and wider fireroad trails, and I felt fast because they鈥檙e so lightweight,鈥� said a tester. Another raved, 鈥淲ith the light and flexible feel of a toothy racing flat, the Peregrine always inspires me to pick up the pace and fly, but I never feel beat up in them no matter how far I go.鈥�

For a shoe that can tackle all sorts of off-road adventures comfortably and capably, $140 is a steal.

Best Zero Drop

Altra Lone Peak 9

Weight: 11.1 oz (men), 9.3 oz (women)
Stack Height: 25鈥�25 mm
Drop: 0 mm
Sizing: 7 – 13, 14, 15, 16 (men鈥檚), 5.5 – 12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Retains the best qualities of Lone Peak 8
鈯� Outstanding traction and grip
鈯� New protective toe bumper reduces flexibility in the toe box

鈥淚f it ain鈥檛 broke, don鈥檛 fix it鈥� has been Altra’s motto regarding their flagship trail shoe for years. The Lone Peak 9 stays true to its roots, maintaining the zero-drop platform, wide toe box, and reliable grip, with a few minor updates, including a re-engineered upper, improved outsole, and lighter midsole.

The midsole is still made of Altra EGO foam, but the compound has been reformulated to weigh less and have more resilient compression, so it should last longer. Testers found the changes minimal, with the shoe maintaining its signature flexibility and excellent ground feel.

The upper, which received the lion’s share of updates, features 100 percent recycled ripstop mesh with no-sew overlays. A new protective toe bumper wraps up and extends over the top of the toe box in the front and along the sides. One tester with toe arthritis dinged the new bumper for reducing the flexibility in the toe box, but no other tester noted a problem. One small but clever addition is an additional set of eyelets, spaced farther apart, that allows the option of creating a tighter midfoot hold for those with low-volume feet.

Underfoot, Altra continues to use their proprietary MaxTrac outsole with 3.5-millimeter lugs but increased the rubber coverage for this version. One tester who slogged through the wet, snowy Wisconsin winter described the outsole as 鈥渢op-notch.鈥� The heel rudder that extends out the back has been split, improving stability by reducing lateral torque. (Note, a version 9+ was recently released that is identical except for a Vibram Megagrip outsole and a new ripstop mesh).

Bottom line: If you鈥檙e a Lone Peak fan there鈥檚 nothing new here that will jeopardize that. Slight improvements sharpen the ride without altering the shoe鈥檚 core identity. 鈥淭he Lone Peak鈥檚 strengths haven’t changed for me,鈥� said one longtime Lone Peak fan.

Best For Speedy Scrambles

Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx

Weight: 8.3 oz (men鈥檚), 6.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 23.5鈥�19.5 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Sizing: 7-15 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight, low-profile
鈯� Secure foothold
鈯� Nimble over rough terrain
鈯� Cushioning can feel slight under toes

If you鈥檙e in need of an amazingly agile shoe to scale mountain trails like a bighorn sheep, the Long Sky 2 Matryx is here for it. The new upper, made out of Matryx鈥攁 thin, breathable, quick-drying synthetic fabric reinforced with super-durable Kevlar threads鈥攕ecures the foot, with a half-booty tongue adding extra hold. Cutouts in the Vibram Megagrip outsole save weight between the tacky, grippy-rubber, five-millimeter lugs. The flexible, compression-molded EVA midsole is on the slight end, enabling confidence-inspiring proprioception and secure footplants on tricky terrain, and firm-but-adequate cushioning on hard-surface trails.

The upper and sole combination locks each stride to the ground. 鈥淚t is such a lightweight shoe, with great traction and fit, that moving your feet over terrain is easier than in a more bulky, highly-cushioned shoe,鈥� said Lousiville, Colorado-based tester Terri Kazanjian.

This was our go-to shoe for any fast-effort trail runs, or days we craved a highly nimble shoe that felt like an extension of our body. Kanzanjian summed up: 鈥淭his shoe makes you feel nimble and peppy on technical terrain, like you can run up those hills and bomb those descents faster than normal.鈥�

Best for Soft Terrain

Scarpa Spin ST

听

Weight: 9.5 oz (men鈥檚), 7.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 22鈥�18 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Sizing: European sizing 40-48 (men鈥檚), 36-43 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Effective, toothy grip on soft surfaces
鈯� Low gaiter-link heel collar helps keep out debris
鈯� Harsh ride on hard-packed trails

The 鈥淪T鈥� in the name stands for 鈥淪oft Terrain,鈥� which is what this shoe is best suited for. Here鈥檚 the main reason why: 7 mm(!) lugs made out of Vibram Mega Grip rubber take hold in soft dirt, mud, and snow, offering secure footing on even the sloppiest surfaces. Complementing the toothiness is an impressively secure foothold from PU overlays that encase a stretchy mesh-paneled upper and pull securely around the foot when the laces are tightened. A tester with a bunion on one foot noted the shoe鈥檚 narrow and unstretchy toe box caused some irritation but raved about the shoe鈥檚 ability to grab hold in soft dirt.

We reached for this shoe often on snowy terrain鈥攅ither on trails or when snow turned neighborhood roads into trails. The high heel collar made out of a neoprene-like stretch woven textile, which keeps trail debris out of the shoe in summer, also does a good job keeping kicked-up snow from infiltrating socks. The upper isn鈥檛 Gore-Tex, however, and doesn鈥檛 try to keep water out. Instead, moisture flows both in and out, and we appreciated the breathability on all-season runs where high effort caused hot feet, and for wet conditions when we wanted drainage. A plus: a lace-locking device and hidden lace pocket both eliminates unwanted loosening and snagging on low branches and roots.

With slight EVA cushioning in the midsole (22 mm under the heel and 18 mm under the forefoot), this isn鈥檛 a shoe you鈥檇 want to wear running hard-packed trails or road sections. But for the soft terrain it was intended for, the underfoot feel was just right, making the Scarpa Spin ST excel at tearing up the trail.

Best For Groomed Trails/Gravel

The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4

Weight: 10.1 oz (men鈥檚), 9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack height: 32鈥�26 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizes: 7-13, 14 (men鈥檚); 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great balance of stable and cushy
鈯� Propulsive feel
鈯� Can feel tippy on technical terrain

The North Face Enduris 4 is a downright comfortable shoe with a performance ride. Upon step -in, our feet felt cradled, secure, and ready for anything. The shoe excelled on routes like the 5.25-mile dirt-road loop around the Boulder Reservoir that is mostly loose gravel with occasional rocks and ruts. On smoother terrain like that, the super-trainer combination of lively cushioning sandwiched around a full-length TPU plate with rockered geometry made us feel smooth and energetic. The shoe can also handle technical terrain, but the plate makes it feel a tad tippy.

The swallow-tail design鈥攖he sole flares out behind the heel with a notch in the middle鈥攕eemed to aid a heel-striking gait, cushioning landings and helping to roll feet forward rather than torquing them inward. Traction comes from four-millimeter multidirectional lugs which worked well on a variety of surfaces and didn鈥檛 feel too clunky on smooth terrain, although one tester noted, 鈥淢ud seemed to stick to the outsole and stay there.鈥� All testers found the seamless engineered mesh upper breathed great and kept feet in place.

Overall, we鈥檙e big fans of the updated Enduris 4 with more cush. 鈥淭he shoe actually felt lighter than expected and easy to run in for both road-to-trail routes and straight trail running,鈥� said one tester.

Best Road-To-Trail

Nike Pegasus Trail 5

Weight: 10.6 oz (men鈥檚), 8.6 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 37鈥�27.5 mm
Drop: 9.5 mm
Sizes: 6-15 (men鈥檚) 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Transitions well from asphalt to dirt
鈯� Secure fit for off-road confidence
鈯� Good-looking enough for casual wear
鈯� Not as cushioned as some other road-to-trail shoes

The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is for runners who value a shoe that can take them from home to the trail and back, running smoothly on pavement while offering traction and foothold on even the most technical off-road terrain. What puts this shoe above other road-to-trail options is its superior performance on uneven, rooty, and rocky terrain. Flywire technology (super-strong, thin, and lightweight thread) in the upper kept our feet from sloshing around inside the shoe and helped us maintain quick, secure foot plants. 鈥淚 felt confident in both the traction and how my feet remained in control on a burly trail with lots of rocks and ups and downs,鈥� said a Boulder, Colorado, tester.

The cushioning is updated in this version to Nike鈥檚 smoothly responsive ReactX foam, with a stack soft and thick enough to soften pavement impact, especially under the forefoot. The shoe runs smoothly on roads with its flexible forefoot and 3.5 mm lugs that are hardly noticeable. But when you reach dirt those lugs kick into action and deliver solid traction.

Tightly woven mesh around the toe box adds durability, while strategically placed holes around the midfoot allow breathability. The addition of a looped cord at the heel makes this shoe easy to pull on鈥攁 simple feature we appreciated every time we used it.

This shoe also looks fashionable enough to crossover to casual wear, adding to its versatility. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great shoe for travel that might include hiking, running, walking, and general adventuring,鈥� said our lead tester, who put it through its paces in Colorado and Costa Rica.

Best Max Cushioned

Brooks Caldera 8

Weight: 10.6 oz (men鈥檚), 9.3 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack height: 38.5鈥�32.5 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizes: men鈥檚: 7-14, 15 (men鈥檚); 5-11, 12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfort on long and short runs
鈯� Wide, stable base
鈯� Protective upper
鈯� Minimal ground feel

We鈥檝e long loved the high-cush, wide-silhouette Caldera for its ability to let us just zone out on a run. It鈥檚 a forgiving shoe, like a truck with really good shocks that allows you to mindlessly roll over rocks and roots. The Caldera 8 is a good companion for anything from short after-work trail jaunts to ultra-distance epics.

The midsole cushioning鈥擝rooks鈥� nitrogen-infused, EVA-based DNA Loft 3鈥攊s ample, while still lightweight. The Caldera 8 can feel like a lot underfoot, especially for lighter-weight runners, but testers said it successfully softened the ground impact of every step without wallowing in cush. Despite the massive stack height, flex grooves on the outsole help enable a smooth flowing stride. Aiding the Caldera鈥檚 forgiving nature is its wide silhouette that keeps it from being tippy, a large surface area for secure ground contact, and solid traction.

This year鈥檚 model features higher raised sidewalls to provide extra stability, and a smooth upper intended to evade snags from branches, both of which seem to work in our testing.

Best Natural Ride

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4

Weight: 10.4 oz (men鈥檚), 8.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack height: 35鈥�30 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Sizes: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚); 6.5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Instantly comfortable on a variety of feet
鈯� Highly cushioned while still allowing ground feel
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 grab loose dirt well

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 fits like a classic Topo shoe鈥攁 secure heel hold gives way to a wide toe box allowing the foot to splay out naturally. Even narrow-footed testers noted the secure and comfortable hold of this shoe, and enjoyed the feeling of support under the arch, which seems to further promote a relaxed forefoot.

The Topo Ultraventure 4 has a relatively high stack height and an ample amount of lively cushioning, which testers particularly noticed and appreciated under the ball of the foot. But unlike its high-cush contemporaries, the slightly firm, responsive, flexible midsole allows great feel for the ground. We enjoyed the surefooted feeling of being connected to the trails instead of floating on top of them.

The upper鈥攁 recycled mesh with a polyurethane wrap around the front of the shoe for protection from toe stubs鈥攊s slightly stretchy and conforms around the foot. 鈥淭his felt like a slipper with traction,鈥� said one tester.

Underfoot, wide, flat, 3.5-millimeter-deep lugs made of Vibram rubber stuck to steep rock slabs on dry trail runs in Boulder, Colorado, and ran smoothly on packed dirt. We craved a little more toothiness on loose trails, but appreciated the versatility and overall natural feel of this shoe. 鈥淭he Ultraventure 4 felt better the longer I went and more tired I got, encouraging and supporting a soft midfoot landing and gentle roll that ate up the miles,鈥� said one tester.

Best For Beginner Trail Runners

New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9

Weight: 10.3 oz (men), 8.3 oz (women)
Stack Height: 42鈥�38 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14, 15, 16, 17 (men鈥檚); 5-11, 12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Both well-cushioned and stable
鈯� Aggressive traction
鈯� Large lugs can feel rough on hard pack

If you鈥檙e just getting into trail running, you need a shoe that provides stability, grip, and comfort鈥攊n essence, one that makes you more confident on the trail. Testers all agreed the New Balance Hierro v9 fit that bill better than any other shoe we tested. In this version, New Balance used two layers of their EVA-based Fresh Foam X in the midsole鈥攁 softer layer closer to the foot for cushioned comfort sits on top of a firmer layer that enhances stability. One tester noted this midsole combo 鈥渁bsorbs shock well and returns energy efficiently.鈥� She also praised the shoe鈥檚 forefoot rocker profile, which 鈥渕akes for a smooth push-off and helps with your forward motion and efficiency.鈥�

Despite having four millimeters more cushioning under the heel (and eight more under the forefoot) than version 8, bringing the total stack to a whopping 42鈥�38 millimeters, we found the Hierro v9 shockingly stable as long as we steered clear of technical terrain鈥攚hich most beginners tend to do anyway. Grippy 4.5-millimeter lugs鈥攚hich one tester described as 鈥渧ery aggressive鈥濃�攊nstill confidence, particularly on loose dirt and gravelly trails. The downside is that those long lugs contributed to a rough ride on hard-packed dirt or road.

A tough-skinned mesh upper with a gusseted tongue felt supportive, yet provided enough comfort for all-day use. All in all, the combination of a thick stack of soft cushioning, grippy outsole, and comfortable and secure upper make this a standout choice for beginner trail runners eager to explore.

How to Choose a Trail Running Shoe

If you鈥檙e in the market for a trail running shoe, first consider the type of trails you run on regularly: do you tackle rugged, mountainous terrain, or stick to mellow dirt paths? Some trail shoes can handle both adequately, while others are specialized and excel in one or the other. Shoes with smaller lugs are generally better on smoother, firmer terrain, whereas shoes with deeper, more aggressive outsoles are optimized for steep, muddy, or rocky trails. If you like to feel the trail and dance around rocks and roots, you鈥檒l likely prefer a light, more minimal shoe, but if you鈥檇 rather let the shoe roll over trail variations, cushioning and protecting while you zone out, you should look for a shoe with a thicker midsole.

Once you鈥檝e narrowed the search to a certain type of trail shoe, you need to find a pair that complements your unique body and stride. Every runner鈥檚 body, gait, speed, experience, and ride preferences are different, so every runner will interact differently with each trail shoe. The shoe that your best friend or your sister-in-law loves may be uncomfortable for you and make running feel slow, sluggish, or even painful. Finding the perfect pair of trail running shoes is a seriously personal affair.

The process for choosing the best running shoes is a matter of finding the models that both fit your foot and also feel best when you鈥檙e running. To determine fit and feel, there鈥檚 no substitute for trying the shoes on and running in them.

Fit: Match Your Foot Shape

When assessing fit, first pay attention to length. You need room at the end of your toes as your feet lengthen during their dynamic movements on the run. A rule of thumb is to allow a thumb鈥檚 width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Runners often wear a running shoe a half or full size bigger than their street shoes.

Ensure that the shape of the sole and the upper matches your foot shape. The sole should be as wide or wider than your foot for the whole length, and match the curve of your arch comfortably. The shoe should hold your foot securely over the instep, while allowing the ball of the foot and the toes to splay and flex when you roll forward onto them. Your heel shouldn鈥檛 slip when you lift it, and the arch should be able to dome and lengthen naturally. Nothing should bind or rub as you roll through the stride.

Feel: Match Your Movement Path

If the shoe fits, it鈥檚 time to take them on a short run on a treadmill, around the store, or, ideally, down the block and back. Every running shoe has a unique ride created by the type and density of foam in the midsole and the geometry of that foam: its thickness, width, heel-to-toe drop, molded sidewalls or flares, and forefoot flexibility or rocker shape (plus, in an increasing number of models, the presence of and type of embedded plate). Each of these elements interact with each other and your stride to determine how the shoe reacts on landing, how much it cushions, how stably it supports, how smoothly it transitions from landing to toe off, and how quickly and powerfully it rebounds.

The best way to choose the shoes that complement your body and stride is to find the ones that feel right on the run. Benno Nigg, the world-leading biomechanics professor who , calls it the 鈥渃omfort filter,鈥� but makes clear it is far more than how plush the shoe feels when you step into it. What you want to assess is whether the shoe allows and supports the way your feet want to move, what Nigg calls your 鈥減referred movement path.鈥� In the right shoe, while running at your normal pace, you will touch down where you expect to land, roll smoothly and stably through the stride without noticing the shoe, feel both cushioned from and connected to the ground, and push off naturally, quickly, and powerfully. When this comes together you鈥檒l know that you鈥檝e found your pair.

It鈥檚 likely that several shoes will feel good on your feet. To find the most comfortable, it helps to compare them back to back, like an eye doctor will do with corrective lenses: flipping between 鈥淎鈥� or 鈥淏,鈥� 鈥�1鈥� or 鈥�2.鈥� You may also find that different shoes feel better at different paces or level of fatigue, and you may want more than one pair. In fact, research shows that wearing a variety of different shoes is one of the few to reduce injury risk as it appears to vary the stresses on your feet and joints.

What About Injury Prevention?

Running shoes have long been marketed and sold as prescriptive devices to help runners stay healthy, but there is correlating shoes, or any specific shoe properties鈥攍ike cushioning or pronation control鈥攚ith running injuries. Medical professionals say that it is highly difficult to determine whether a runner needs a certain type of shoe, and studies have shown that prescribing shoes using traditional methods like treadmill gait analyses or wet-foot arch height tests don鈥檛 consistently reduce injuries.

Don鈥檛 assume that you need more cushioning or more stability if you have sore joints, or if you鈥檙e a heavier runner, or if you鈥檙e a beginner鈥攅vidence doesn鈥檛 support many common beliefs. The best way prevent injury is find two or three different pairs that feel right on the run, ease into using them, and vary your shoes, your running surface and your pace regularly (plus avoid rapid increases in your training load and work on ).

How We Test

• Number of testers: 18
• Number of shoes tested: 84
• Number of miles: 22,000+ over a year
• Most Memorable Trail Run: Having a mild winter afternoon turn into a blizzard while three miles from home in the western Nebraska sandhills.

To test running shoes, we begin by researching every brand鈥檚 new offerings for the coming season. We wind up with dozens of samples of the models (84 throughout the year, 34 trail running shoes this season) that are most promising, and distribute them to 26 testers who range in age, ability, running form, geographical location, terrain, and preferred shoe types. We try to put each tester in shoes from within the same category (all rugged, backcountry trail shoes, or all road-to-trail crossovers) so everyone can test apples-to-apples.

After three to six months of running in each model on varied terrain and in all conditions, our crew members report back with their assessments of fit, comfort, traction, cushioning, flexibility, stiffness, pop, what type of running the model is best used for, how the shoe compares to other models, and more. We also run in every trail running shoe ourselves, and, combining all the tester feedback with years of personal experience, hone in on the best. We then weigh this season鈥檚 bests against the heroes from previous seasons that are still available and choose winners and honorable mentions for each category.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Lisa Jhung

Freelance journalist, editor, and author has researched, tested, and written about running shoes for the past decade and a half, much of that time for 国产吃瓜黑料. She coordinates a fleet of female shoe testers out of Boulder, Colorado, and says her home office is a perpetual obstacle course of cardboard boxes and piles of running shoes. Lisa鈥檚 written about gear of all kinds for numerous national magazines as both an editor and freelancer, including a stint as the shoes and gear blogger and trail running microsite editor for Runner鈥檚 World.

A high school jumper and occasional sprinter/hurdler, she started running鈥攔eally running鈥攁fter walking off the collegiate volleyball team, and moved on to road and trail races of any distance, triathlons, adventure races, and mountain running. She鈥檚 happiest testing rugged trail shoes on gnarly terrain, and also loves a good neighborhood jaunt鈥ut is almost always looking for ribbons of dirt. Lisa is the author of Running That Doesn鈥檛 Suck: How to Love Running (Even if You Think You Hate It) and Trailhead: The Dirt on All Things Trail Running.

Cory Smith

passion for running started over 30 years ago in high school when he became the number six ranked runner in the nation at 3000 meters his senior year. After high school, he competed at Villanova University, earning two NCAA Division I Championship showings. Today, he鈥檚 determined not to let age slow him down and competes on the national master鈥檚 circuit, running a 4:12 (4:30 mile pace)) 1500 meters and 9:04 (4:52 mile pace) 3000 meters in 2021 at age 43. He prefers a hard track workout or tempo run over an easy long run any day but also appreciates a challenging trail or mountain run.

His obsession with running shoes started in 2014 when he wrote his first shoe review for Gear Institute. Since then, he鈥檚 tested and reviewed hundreds of running shoes, clothing, and gear for 国产吃瓜黑料, Runner鈥檚 World, Footwear News, and other outlets. He has a soft spot for speedy shoes over heavy trainers but loves dissecting all shoes equally and thinking like a product engineer to explain the why behind every design detail. Cory is the Founder of , an online running coaching business, and since its inception in 2014, has coached runners鈥� to over 100 Boston Marathon Qualifying times.

One of Cory Smith鈥檚 go-to routes for testing trail running shoes:

Jonathan Beverly

Jonathan fell in love with running his freshman year of high school and quickly became fascinated with finding the perfect pair of running shoes. That quest got a boost when he became editor of Running Times in 2000 and started receiving every new model as they were released. The parade of shoes continued while he served as shoe editor for Runner鈥檚 World, then editor of PodiumRunner, and currently fitness gear editor at 国产吃瓜黑料. Having now worn nearly every running shoe created in this century鈥攁nd a fair amount of those dating back to the early models of the 鈥�70s鈥攈e鈥檚 given up on finding the one best and now relishes the wide variety of excellent options.

Once a 2:46 marathoner regularly doing 50+ mile weeks, recent injuries and his age have reduced his volume and slowed his pace鈥攂ut he still enjoys an uptempo workout or two each week. Beverly is the author of the book which explores how each individual鈥檚 gait鈥攁nd thus shoe preference鈥攊s unique. He enjoys getting scientists鈥� take on new shoe trends and trying to describe the nuances of each shoe鈥檚 ride.

One of Jonathan Beverly鈥檚 go-to routes for testing trail running shoes:

The post The Best Trail Running Shoes for Every Terrain appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The most significant factor that determines your marathon performance is the quality of your training. Once training is in the bag, you need effective pacing, fueling, and hydration strategies. But there’s one more thing you can do to ensure you get the most from that training and planning on race day: invest in a pair of marathon racing shoes.

An effective marathon racing shoe can help reduce the repeated impact that miles after miles听 put on your body while allowing you to get more energy out of each footstrike. Even more importantly, the right marathon racing shoe will provide you with a platform that is stable and cushioned enough to carry you through 26.2 miles in security and comfort. We鈥檝e spent the last two years rigorously testing every option on the market to help you pick the best pair for you.

Update March 2025: We removed one discontinued shoe and updated four categories with new models from Hoka, Saucony, Adidas, and Topo.

At a Glance

Best Marathon Racing Super Shoes

• Best Overall: Nike Alphafly 3 ($285)
• Runner-up: On Cloudboom Strike ($280)
• Most Stable: Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris ($250)
• Lightest: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo ($500)
• Bounciest: Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 ($275)
• Best Zero Drop: Altra Vanish Carbon 2 ($260)
• Best Trail: Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra ($220)
• Softest Marathon Super Shoe: Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 ($275)

Best Non-Carbon-Plated Marathon Shoes

• Best for Beginners: PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 ($160)
• Most Versatile: Adidas Adizero Evo SL ($150)
• Most Supportive: Saucony Tempus 2 ($160)
• Best for Wide Feet: Topo Specter 2 ($165)
• Best Minimalist: Topo Cyclone 3 ($150)

Honorable Mentions

Tips and How We Test

• How to Choose Marathon Shoes
• FAQs
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Tester

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best Marathon Racing Super Shoes

Eight years after the debut of the first super shoe, the thick-stacked, carbon-plated racers are ubiquitous at the front of every marathon and increasingly common among runners in the pack looking to optimize their performance. These shoes have been lab-proven to improve running economy by a few percentage points, making it easier to maintain a faster pace. Runners also report that they experience less muscular fatigue when running in a super shoe that complements their stride.

These are some of the super shoes that our testers found most comfortable and effective at marathon pace, but your experience may vary (as we found when we had three testers compare 16 super shoes in a ). Every super shoe boasts some sort of ultralight, hyper-responsive foam with an embedded, curved carbon-fiber plate鈥攂ut each delivers a surprisingly unique ride. You鈥檒l have to experiment to find one that gives you wings.

See our “How to Choose Marathon Shoes” section at the bottom of this article for more guidance on whether you should consider a super shoe and how to select a pair that works for your stride.

Best Overall Marathon Super Shoe

Nike Alphafly 3

听

Weight: 7.8 oz (men), 6.2 oz (women)
Stack Height: 40鈥�32 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Bouncy, propulsive midsole
鈯� Breathable, form-fitting upper
鈯� Lighter than ever
鈯� Difficult to get on/off
鈯� Unstable heel

Designed specifically for marathons, the Alphafly set a new standard as the fastest marathon shoe ever when Eliud Kipchoge wore them while breaking the 2-hour barrier in a staged marathon, clocking 1:59:40.2 in October 2019.

Now, in its third iteration, the Alphafly 3 continues to dominate as the ultimate marathon racing shoe. Designed with Nike鈥檚 Air Zoom Units in the forefoot and a PEBA-based midsole, our more competitive, efficient testers praised the Alphafly 3 for its bouncy, energy-efficient ride.

Subtle adjustments to the shoe’s geometry, including a wider footprint and carbon fiber plate, paired with repositioned Air Zoom Units and strategically sculpted midsole, give the Alphafly 3 a distinctly different feel from its predecessor. These changes effectively address some of the issues found in the Alphafly 2, which many felt was heavy and clunky compared to the original.

The new Alphafly 3 is surprisingly nimble, weighing in as the lightest Alphafly to date. Even running as fast as 5k pace, I found the Alphafly responded quickly, encouraging a fast turnover. That said, it may be too sharp of a tool for some runners, as those who require a stable stance may find it a bit wobbly, especially in the heel.

The redesigned Atomkit 3.0 upper is about as race-y as you can get鈥攅xtremely light and airy. Though a bit tough to put on because of its tightly woven mesh (like previous models), the new upper is highly breathable and secure, with sawtooth laces that stay tied tight throughout the marathon.

Read our full Alphafly 3 review听and how it compared to other racers in our .

Runner-up Marathon Super Shoe

On Cloudboom Strike

Weight: 7.6 oz (men), 6.6 oz (women)
Stack Height: 39.5鈥�35.5 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Highly cushioned without sacrificing bouncy responsiveness
鈯� Outstanding cushioning-to-weight ratio
鈯� Somewhat unstable

A stark contrast to On鈥檚 previous carbon fiber racing shoe, the firm-feeling Cloudboom Echo, the Cloudboom Strike is soft, bouncy, and fun to run in. Runners who can maintain their balance on what is a fairly unstable platform are rewarded with a lively, highly cushioned ride that鈥檚 comfortable and responsive, making it ideal for long-distance efforts.

The secret to the Strike’s sweet ride lies with the insole. On swapped out the traditional Strobel (a thin layer connecting the upper to the sole) and sockliner for a thick, removable layer of high-energy PEBA foam, thus increasing the amount of performance-enhancing foam underfoot. The result is a legal racer with cushioning that feels like it exceeds the World Athletics鈥� maximum stack height.

The smooth, ultra-cushioned ride is surprisingly quick for such a thick shoe, responding nimbly even when exceeding 5k pace. The shoe accommodated both long-striding testers and those who prefer to turn over faster.

The Cloudboom Strike fit runs long enough that you might consider sizing down by half a size. However, the one-piece mesh upper, which breathes well and effectively repels moisture, easily cinches down for a secure foot hold.

Read our full

Most Stable Marathon Super Shoe

Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris

Weight: 6.5 oz (unisex)
Stack Height: 39.5鈥�34.5 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Sizing: 3.5-13 (men鈥檚), 5-14.5 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Wide, stable stance
鈯� Long, smooth rocker
鈯� Versatile ride
鈯� Stiff heel counter can be uncomfortable

The Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris gives runners the best of both worlds鈥攁 highly energetic, cushioned feel and a stable ride. Super shoes鈥檚 tall, thick midsoles often create a wobbly sensation, forcing your stabilizing muscles to work harder to maintain balance.

The key to the Metaspeed Sky Paris鈥檚 stability is its wide base under the forefoot, coupled with an updated, wider carbon fiber plate. This makes the Metaspeed Sky Paris an excellent choice for beginner, intermediate, or unstable runners who want to enjoy the benefits of super shoe technology while still having a supportive, predictable platform. One back-of-the-pack tester noted that the broad base provided a 鈥渟mooth ride, and the running dynamics worked extremely well with my foot and my own personal gait.鈥�

The shoe鈥檚 stability, however, doesn鈥檛 compromise its stride-lengthening performance for experienced, efficient marathoners. Testers found that the Metaspeed Sky had the ability to work well for a wide range of runners and paces.

The shoe also has a new, more pliable and comfortable mesh upper and midsole foam that鈥檚 approximately 8 percent lighter and, Asics says, has an 8.2 percent better energy return over the previous model. The best part: The shoe got nearly an ounce lighter, making it one of the lightest marathon-racing options.

Read more about the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris in our .

Lightest Marathon Super Shoe

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1

Weight: 4.6 oz (unisex)
Stack Height: 38鈥�32 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 5-10 (men鈥檚), 6-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely light
鈯� Best cushioning-to-weight ratio on the market
鈯� Energetic forward roll
鈯� Lacks durability for heavy and inefficient runners

The groundbreaking adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 shatters the mold as the lightest super shoe ever made, weighing nearly 2 ounces less than the next lightest super shoe. Yet from the outset, I was amazed that a shoe this light could have this much cushioning.

The Pro Evo 1鈥檚 rocker is long and aggressive, curving up to a high toe spring (elevation of the toe box). Initially, at well-below marathon speeds, it felt forced and unnatural. However, once I picked it up to around marathon pace and my toes engaged with the steep curve, I sensed a smooth rolling action that energetically pushed me forward. I believe marathoners averaging seven-minute miles or faster will see the most benefit from these.

Besides being the lightest super shoe on the market, the Evo 1 also claims the title of the most expensive. That, coupled with initial talk of the shoe only working for a single marathon, makes the Evo 1 a big investment. Our test pair, however, lasted nearly 200 miles before the midsole showed signs of wear. While not every runner can expect similar durability, those with an efficient stride should enjoy everything the Evo 1 has to offer much longer than a single marathon.

Read our full .

Bounciest Marathon Super Shoe

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0

Weight: 8.1 oz (men’s), 6.8 oz (women’s)
Stack Height: 39鈥�32 mm
Drop: 7 mm
Sizing: 5-12, 13, 14 (men鈥檚), 6-13, 14, 15 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely bouncy midsole
鈯� Lighter than original by over an ounce
鈯� More comfortable upper
鈯� Steep rocker can feel awkward
鈯� Still one of the heavier marathon racing shoes

With a ride that feels like bouncing on a pogo stick, the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 delivers unmatched spring with every stride. Designed with two layers of 眉ber-responsive PEBA foam separated by a winged carbon fiber plate, and a severe, heel-to-toe rocker profile, testers marveled at how much fun these shoes were. One tester described the shoe as 鈥渁 marshmallow meets a trampoline鈥攕oft and cushy, yet with a springy, propulsive feel.鈥�

Significant updates include a lighter, more breathable upper, a more aggressive rocker, enhanced forefoot cushioning, and improved outsole traction. Undoubtedly the most noticeable change is weight鈥攊t鈥檚 more than an ounce lighter than its predecessor. While it鈥檚 still one of the heavier marathon racing shoes, it鈥檚 leaps and bounds more competitive than the previous version.

The rockered profile from heel to toe forces a midfoot landing, which takes a little getting used to. Some testers found it produced a forceful ramp for toeing off, while others noted that it 鈥渇eels like it is in control鈥攏ot me.鈥� All, however, appreciated the more streamlined, breathable, and accommodating engineered mesh upper that replaced what was previously a rough, rather uncomfortable foot wrap (with God-awful stiff laces) on the Cielo X1.

鈥淗oka got it right with this update,鈥� said one tester. 鈥淚t’s an enjoyable ride that produces high speed in comfort.鈥�

Best Zero Drop Marathon Shoe

Altra Vanish Carbon 2

Weight: 8.1 oz (men鈥檚), 5.8 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 36鈥�36 mm
Drop: 0 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚), 5.5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Highly cushioned
鈯� Wide toe box with fitted midsection
鈯� Balanced stance heel-to-toe
鈯� Foam not as bouncy as some super shoes

Unfortunately, there are not a ton of choices when it comes to highly cushioned zero drop racing shoes. Fortunately, the only option is a really good one. Now in its second iteration, the Altra Vanish Carbon 2 features three more millimeters of softer, more flexible underfoot cushioning heel to toe. Embedded in the soft, nitrogen-infused, TPE-based midsole is a full-length carbon fiber plate that adds a bit of stabilizing and propulsive stiffness without feeling controlling.

The Vanish Carbon 2鈥檚 midsole doesn鈥檛 have as dramatic a trampoline sensation as some other marathon racing shoes, but it delivers a smooth, cushioned ride that’s hard to beat. Even as someone who typically struggles with zero-drop shoes, I found the Vanish Carbon 2 enjoyable and surprisingly easy to run in, thanks to the high stack and rockered profile. Testers said the low heel helped increase their cadence and kept them more on their toes.

Despite not having a ton of structure, the lightweight, breathable mesh upper does a surprisingly good job of securing your midfoot while your toes have room to splay in Altra鈥檚 signature wide toe box.

Read more about the Altra Vanish Carbon 2 in our .

Best Trail Marathon Super Shoe

Adidas Agravic Terrex Speed Ultra

听

Weight: 9.5 oz (men鈥檚), 7.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 38鈥�30 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely efficient
鈯� Well cushioned
鈯� Agile ride
鈯� Tipsy through highly technical terrain

When it comes to replicating the performance benefits of road super shoes for the trail, shoemakers have struggled to achieve the same level of success. The adidas Terrex Speed Ultra is a standout exception. Designed with one of the most aggressive rockered profiles on a trail running shoe, the Terrex Speed Ultra feels awkward initially, almost like you鈥檙e walking downhill.

However, once you get accustomed to the unique profile that wants to push you forward, you鈥檙e rewarded with a propulsive ride unlike any other trail running shoe. Inside, the high-performance TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer) midsole incorporates a four-pronged, slightly flexible PEBA-based rod system, providing extra stiffness to the soft foam without creating instability on technical terrain. While it manages well on groomed or rocky sections, like most highly cushioned trail shoes, it’s not designed for prolonged precise technical maneuvering.

Staying true to its race-ready design, the upper is razor-thin and slightly padded to keep weight at a minimum. The quick-drying synthetic material, combined with a gusseted tongue and sawtooth lacing that bites like a threatened rattlesnake, provides excellent midfoot lockdown. The only drawback is the unstructured heel counter, which can cause some heel lift if the laces aren鈥檛 pulled extra tight.

Read our full Adidas Agravic Terrex Speed Ultra review.

Softest Marathon Super Shoe

Saucony Endorphin Elite 2

Weight: 7.0 oz (men鈥檚); 6.4 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 40鈥�32 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 3.5-14 (men鈥檚), 5-15.5 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Bouncy midsole
鈯� Breathable and comfortable upper
鈯� Too soft for some
鈯� Unstable

Some updates refine a shoe, while others reinvent it completely. The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 falls into the latter category. Bearing virtually no resemblance to the original, what was once a firm, stable marathon shoe has transformed into the softest race-day option we tested.

The shoe debuts an all-new foam for Saucony called incrediRUN. It鈥檚 an ultralight, highly bouncy, supercritical (gas-infused), TPEE-based foam that feels squishy and unstable when walking around, almost like sinking into a sponge. But once you start running, the magic happens. This way-too-soft foam suddenly changes tune to become bouncy, cushioned, and extremely smooth. Somehow, the thick foam, full-length carbon fiber plate (slotted in the forefoot for a hint of flexibility), and sharply rockered forefoot combine to dispel the spongy feeling and propel you forward. 鈥淥nce I started to pick up the pace, the foam firmed up and became insanely responsive,鈥� said one tester.

That said, these aren鈥檛 immune to stability issues. Runners who aren鈥檛 used to 眉ber-soft foams, or who run with a strong heel strike and whose stride has more roll than spring may find their feet and legs working harder to counterbalance the instability.

The upper is equally transformed in this version. The new, flexible knit and airy mesh rests softly against the foot, creating one of the more comfortable and breathable uppers we tested.

While the drastic changes will not suit every runner鈥攅specially those who preferred the firmer feel of the original鈥攖he Endorphin Elite 2 delivers an undeniably energetic and cushioned ride.

Best Non-Carbon-Plated Marathon Shoes

Not everyone wants or needs a super shoe when covering 26.2 miles听(See our 鈥�How to Choose鈥� section for a discussion on why). Here are some top options without a rigid carbon-fiber plate, sorted with consideration for specific needs and preferences.

Best Beginner Marathon Shoe

Puma Deviate Nitro 3

Weight: 8.8 oz (men鈥檚), 7.6 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 39鈥�29 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚), 5.5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Stable for such a cushioned shoe
鈯� Excellent stride and pace versatility
鈯� Comfortable, secure fit
鈯� High drop doesn鈥檛 work for some

Supershoes鈥� tall, highly cushioned soles create an unstable and wobbly platform, especially for beginner runners who spend more time in contact with the ground than their faster counterparts. Plus their rigid, curved plates dictate how the foot rolls, and are tuned to be optimal for fast, efficient runners.

Puma鈥檚 Deviate Nitro 3 combats these issues by combining two foams, a softer one closer to the foot with a firmer one closer to the ground, separated by a semi-flexible carbon-fiber composite plate. This design offers most of the cushioning and propulsive benefits of a super shoe, without the instability or the prescriptive stride control.

What sets the Deviate Nitro 3 apart most, however, is its remarkable ability to deliver a smooth ride at any pace. There鈥檚 nothing restrictive about the shoe鈥攊t adapts to your running speed and performs effortlessly, making it double as a great everyday trainer as well as a racing shoe.

Keeping comfort in mind, the upper features an engineered knit mesh with moderately padded heel collar. Testers felt the fit was true to size with a small amount of stretch throughout the upper to accommodate foot swelling or irregularities, such as bunions. The stretchy laces received mixed reviews, as one found he needed to keep tightening them to feel secure during the run.

Read our full .

Most Versatile Marathon Shoe

Adidas Adizero Evo SL

Weight: 7.9 oz (men鈥檚); 6.6 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 39鈥�33 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 6.5-15, 16 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Suited for any pace, any type of runner
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� High value for bargain price
鈯� Thin laces can be tough to tie

Combining the best elements of a speedy everyday trainer with a light and lean racer, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL proves that a plateless design can still be 鈥渟uper.鈥� Inspired by the 鈥攖he lightest super shoe we鈥檝e ever tested鈥攊ts design is refreshingly simple: keep it light, make it comfortable, and use a high-quality, high-energy foam.

Under the hood it features a responsive layer of Adidas鈥� Lightstrike Pro foam (the same found in the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 super shoe), reinforced with a nylon shank for just the right touch of stiffness. The ride is remarkably smooth and gentle: not too soft or too firm, striking a balance between bouncy and responsive. It鈥檚 one of those rare shoes that will work well with any runner鈥檚 gait or pace, neither unstable nor prescriptively controlling the stride

One tester noted that at slower paces (9- to 10-minute miles) the midsole, while providing superb cushioning, encouraged a slow cadence and long ground contact time. But the response quickened considerably when he sped up, adjusted his balance forward, and exerted more force on push-off. 鈥淭he shoe feels like it would take care of me even when I鈥檓 beat up and surviving in the later miles but rewards a stronger, faster stride with more energy,鈥� he said.

At 7.9 ounces for men and 6.6 ounces for women, it鈥檚 light on the feet, in line with the best marathon shoes listed here, but still offers plenty of cushioning. 鈥淚t feels fast on the foot, but has the stack/cushion of a trainer,鈥� observed one tester.

Most Supportive Marathon Shoe

Saucony Tempus 2

Weight: 9.4 oz (men鈥檚), 8.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 33鈥�25 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Highly stable without sacrificing responsiveness
鈯� Supportive without excessive control
鈯� Snug and comfortable fitting upper
鈯� Not as cushioned as most super shoes/trainers

When the Saucony Tempus first came out, we were blown away by its ability to control the soft, unstable nature of a PEBA midsole without taking away its high-energy, performance-enhancing benefits. Keeping everything the same underfoot, but adding a better fitting, more breathable mesh upper, the Tempus 2 continued to wow us with its supportive, yet lively ride.

The combination of soft, bouncy PEBA foam and a firmer EVA frame that uniquely wraps over and under the high-performance core helps guide the foot into a more stable position, making it perfect for beginners, or any runner, who may struggle with foot alignment, particularly during a long and exhausting marathon. The moderate stack height of 33mm in the heel and 25mm in the forefoot strikes a perfect balance鈥攏ot so thick and cushioned that you can鈥檛 push off effectively, yet not so thin that it compromises comfort. The dual foam midsole, without a plate, provides ample underfoot protection while still allowing for a good sense of ground feel and accommodates any stride pattern.

The main drawback is that it’s relatively heavy for a racing shoe (while light for a trainer). Weighing 9.4 ounces for men and 8.2 ounces for women, it鈥檚 the heaviest shoe on our list. However, if you prioritize stability and want to tap into the performance benefits of PEBA in a supportive but not prescriptive shoe, this is still the top choice on the market.

Read our full Saucony Tempus review.

Best Marathon Shoe for Wide Feet

Topo Specter 2

Weight: 8.1 oz (men鈥檚), 7.0 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 37鈥�32 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Sizing: 8-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 6-11, 12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Roomy toe box
鈯� Great fitting upper
鈯� Natural, flexible, springy ride
鈯� Midsole may be too firm for some

Known for its wide toe box designs, Topo has mastered the balance of offering plenty of space for your toes while ensuring a secure midfoot lockdown. One of only four shoes in this roundup without a plate in the midsole, the Topo Specter 2 delivers a more natural and flexible experience than your stiff-plated super shoe or super trainer. A generous layer of Pebax foam underfoot is tuned firmer than usual, but still delivers its signature bouncy ride. One tester described the midsole as 鈥渇irm and springy with a lot of response,鈥� adding, 鈥渢he shoe feels airy and fast with the perfect balance of stiffness versus flex.鈥�

Testers found the Specter 2 incredibly versatile. It delivers the same ease and comfort on easy run days as it does on uptempo runs or races, thanks to its highly cushioned, responsive, and adaptable sole, and low overall weight.

Where the shoe truly stands out, however, is in its fit. One tester said about Topo shoes, “They’ve gone from being one of my least favorite brands to offering some of the best-fitting shoes I鈥檝e tested.” The wide toe box isn鈥檛 just for runners with wide feet. Even our runners with regular-width feet appreciated the extra space, once they got used to their toes having room for their natural positioning and splay.

Best Minimalist Marathon Shoe

Topo Cyclone 3

Weight: 6.9 oz (men鈥檚), 5.5 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 28鈥�23 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Sizing: 8-13 (men鈥檚), 6-11(women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Superb fit
鈯� Unrestricted, natural, proprioceptive ride
鈯� Soft, bouncy midsole
鈯� Cushioning is too thin for some
鈯� Sole is too flexible for some

As foams have become increasingly lighter, marathon racing shoes are getting significantly thicker and more cushioned. Rather than allowing your foot to react to the ground and move naturally, these thick-soled shoes blunt the underfoot feel and dictate how your foot moves through the gait cycle to various degrees. While this works well for some runners, others prefer a more minimalist ride.

If you鈥檙e the kind of runner who finds today鈥檚 thick cushioned shoes squishy, cumbersome and as restrictive as a stiff suit of armor, look no further. The Topo Cyclone 3 is a free and flexible lightweight racer that lets your foot control the shoe, not the other way around. Testers described the ride as 鈥渘imble鈥� and 鈥渇lexible鈥� with a 鈥渟lipper-like鈥� feel.

Except for the new upper, this version remains the same as its predecessor. The Cyclone 3 still relies on Topo鈥檚 PEBAX midsole to deliver the soft feel and springy response of a super shoe, but the comparatively thin stack height (28mm/23mm) keeps the squish and bounce moderate, and lets you feel the ground under the cushioning. You won鈥檛 find a plate embedded in the flexible midsole鈥攊nstead, there鈥檚 a slight rocker profile to help smooth the transition from stance to toe-off.

We鈥檝e always found that Topo Athletic makes some of the best-fitting shoes on the market, and the Cyclone 3 certainly follows suit. The updated upper brings a few subtle tweaks, including a lower-sitting tongue to prevent rubbing and a redesigned engineered mesh for improved ventilation, although we didn鈥檛 notice a significant difference. A tailored midsection with excellent lockdown gives way to a roomy anatomical toe box that complements the flexible sole and lets your feet move and engage naturally.

Another strong option, if you鈥檙e looking for a low-profile, flexible ride with some rotational support is the Brooks Hyperion GTS 2, which has a moderate stack height (34/26mm), responsive cushioning, and gently guides the gait with firmer, raised sidewalls alongside the rearfoot.

Read our full Topo Cyclone review.

Honorable Mentions

• – For better or worse, the Adios Pro 4, offers a significantly different running experience than its predecessor. Unlike the stable and firm Adios Pro 3, the Pro 4 rides more in line with other , catering to efficient, forward-balanced runners. Though it sacrifices stability, its performance at tempo paces and marathon efforts makes it a strong option for those who favor a plush, propulsive feel. Read our full .
• – Best described as a more accessible, fast-training counterpart to the Hoka Cielo X1, the Mach X2 impressed our testers with its energetic and responsive ride. A great option for those who want a super shoe ride for training and racing without paying the super shoe prices. However, some testers found the geometry and plate to be prescriptive鈥攄ictating how the foot rolled鈥攚hich prevented it from making our top picks.
• – Diadora isn鈥檛 as widely known in the U.S. as other brands, but the Italian company has a strong tradition in athletic footwear. Sporting an 眉ber soft underfoot feel, the shoe鈥檚 geometry keeps it surprisingly stable for such a spongy shoe. The one knock is the $300 price tag, making it the second most expensive super shoe that we鈥檝e tested.
• – While not as bouncy as some of the above supershoes, this shoe shines in its cushioning abilities. With a soft and extremely smooth ride, we found these best suited for long runs at marathon pace when we wanted some extra protection. Marathoners who prioritize maximum cushioning will enjoy racing in these.

How to Choose Marathon Shoes

After dedicating countless hours to marathon training, it’s just as crucial to invest time and effort into choosing the right running shoe for race day. Unlike your everyday trainer, a marathon racing shoe must strike a balance between providing enough stability to maintain your form over 26.2 miles and offering sufficient cushioning to protect your legs from the constant impact, while not weighing you down or holding you back. Here鈥檚 what you must consider when buying the ideal marathon racing shoes.

Stability

As running shoes become thicker and softer, they can start to feel unstable and wobbly. This instability forces the stabilizing muscles in your feet and legs to work harder, which can lead to premature fatigue and even injury. To prevent this, it’s crucial to choose a marathon racing shoe that provides a stable enough platform for your stride, ensuring consistent support throughout the race, even when you grow tired and your stride becomes less efficient. Stability is built into a marathon racing shoe by using embedded plates, firmer midsoles, a widened base, and a more structured heel counter and rearfoot hold.

Cushioning

Cushioning refers to the perceived underfoot firmness of a running shoe. While cushioning levels are a matter of personal preference, wearing softer running shoes during the marathon can be beneficial. One with 32 recreational runners found that wearing highly cushioned running shoes improved performance by 5.7 percent and reduced oxygen consumption by 3.2 percent during incremental treadmill tests. However, runners must balance cushioning benefits with stability and propulsion needs.

Fit

Given the length of the marathon it鈥檚 crucial to make sure your marathon racing shoes fit well. Since over the course of the 26.2 miles your feet may swell, you should make sure you have enough room in the toe box to accommodate this swelling. A good general rule of thumb is to make sure you have at least a thumb鈥檚 width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. You should be able to wiggle your toes without them bumping up against the front of the shoe. While you want space for your toes to splay, the upper should hold your foot securely around the heel and instep.

FAQs

Should You Train in a Carbon Fiber-plated Shoe?

While this is a highly debated topic, the current thinking is to limit the amount of time spent training in carbon fiber plated shoes. These shoes are built with a thick, highly cushioned, and unstable platform, and a rigid rocker profile. Unlike more flexible running shoes that allow your foot to move naturally, carbon fiber shoes dictate the way your feet strike the ground and roll forward, potentially altering your natural gait, which can lead to injury. In addition, the powerful bounce magnifies any instability, causing more stress on your muscles, tendons, and joints. Ideally, limit your carbon-plated shoes to race day and a few speed sessions. Ideally, limit your carbon-plated shoes to race day, a few speed sessions, and a moderately long run to test how your stride reacts to the shoes when fatigued. Super trainers鈥攚ith the same high-end foams but more flexible plates鈥攃an be a great alternative for weekly speed sessions or fast-finish long runs.

How Long Do Marathon Racing Shoes Last?

The length of marathon racing shoes varies on a runner’s weight, stride efficiency, and model of shoe. Typically, lighter runners who have an efficient stride will realize longer shoe lifespans, while heavier runners who spend more time on the ground will see less. Generally speaking, you should get somewhere around 100 to 200 miles from your marathon racing shoes before the midsole begins to decompress. Visual cues, such as worn down outsole, uneven midsole compression, or holes in the upper, can be your best indicator of it being time to replace your marathon shoes. 国产吃瓜黑料 of that, I鈥檝e found if you start to question whether it鈥檚 time to replace your shoes, it鈥檚 usually time.

Should Beginners Race in a Carbon Fiber Shoe?

There are a few factors beginner runners should consider before choosing a carbon fiber shoe. First, most carbon fiber running shoes are designed with fast, efficient runners in mind. have shown that slower runners get less improvement in their running economy from the shoes, and the shoes actually make running harder for a significant number.

If you have developed solid mechanics, you may benefit from a carbon fiber shoe. However, if your form is still a work in progress, the stiffness of the carbon plate and the hyper-responsiveness of the foam could actually magnify poor mechanics, reduce your performance, and increase the risk of injury.

Additionally, every carbon fiber shoe is built differently鈥攖he placement and shape of the carbon plate, geometry of the midsole and properties of the foam all are different, model to model. This means no two carbon plated shoes will run exactly the same. It鈥檚 important to match your individual gait to a carbon fiber shoe by testing several options for the one that feels the best. In general, beginners should be cautious and make sure they’re fully comfortable in carbon fiber shoes before racing in them.

How We Test

Our exhaustive testing process involves evaluating every marathon racing shoe on the market, sometimes as long as over a year, with input from more than 20 experienced wear-testers. They each fill out a detailed testing questionnaire evaluating key points such as fit, comfort, cushioning, and speed. The completed questionnaires are compiled and combined with testing feedback from lead tester Cory Smith, who brings over a decade of experience testing running shoes for 国产吃瓜黑料. Shoes that excel in specific areas are then ranked and categorized in relation to their strengths.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like 国产吃瓜黑料 and Runner鈥檚 World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a masters personal best of 4:31 in the mile at the age of 44. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week on roads, trails, and the track.

The post The 13 Best Marathon Racing Shoes for Every Type of Runner appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Running shoe technology is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the wide range of people getting out, gaining fitness, and pushing their personal limits. Today, the range of styles available to runners is greater than ever before, with shoe developers constantly introducing new foams and novel shapes, stack heights ranging from close-to-the-ground minimal to impossibly high maximal, and a smorgasbord of unique rides to complement any stride and preference.

A multitude of choices, however, can sometimes lead to decision paralysis. To help you find the best running shoe for your specific needs, we鈥檝e tested more than 100 pairs of new and updated models with a diverse team of over 20 testers. Whether you鈥檙e seeking a speedy shoe to make you feel like you鈥檙e flying (and help you PR), or a daily workhorse that you look forward to lacing up, our guide is here to help.

Update March 2025: We鈥檝e tested and selected new models in 11 categories, including a new best all-around pick of the Asics Novablast 5.

At a Glance

Training Shoes

• Best All-Around: Asics Novablast 5 ($140)
• Best Cushioned Trainer: Nike Vomero 18 ($150)
• Best Distance Trainer: Brooks Glycerin Max ($165)
• Best Value: Brooks Launch 11 ($120)
• Best Lightweight Trainer: Mizuno Neo Zen ($150)
• Best Super Trainer: Nike Zoom Fly 6 ($170)
• Best for Recovery Runs: Diadora Nucleo 2 ($160)
• Best Natural Ride: Mount to Coast R1 ($160)

Stability Shoes

• Best All-Around: Asics GEL-Kayano 31 ($165)
• Best Plush Stability: Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 ($150)
• Best Lightweight Stability: Brooks Hyperion GTS 2 ($140)

Racing Shoes

• Best Marathon Racer: Nike Alphafly 3 ($285)
• Runner-Up Marathon Racer: Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 ($275)
• Best For Shorter Road Races: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 ($250)

Trail Running Shoes

Tips and How We Test

• How to Choose a Road Running Shoe
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Best Training Shoes

Best All-Around

Asics Novablast 5

Weight: 9 oz (men), 7.9 oz (women)
Stack Height: 41.5鈥�33.5 mm (men鈥檚); 40.5鈥�32.5 mm (women鈥檚)
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great weight-to-cushioning ratio
鈯� Smooth ride
鈯� Poor outsole grip in slick conditions

Versatile, cushioned, and responsive, few shoes check as many boxes as the ASICS Novablast 5. Underfoot, ASICS upgraded the midsole to FF Blast Max, a polyolefin-based compound that鈥檚 a touch softer and bouncier than its predecessor. Testers praised it for its 鈥減lush experience鈥� and 鈥渓ively and energetic feel underfoot.鈥� The shoe delivers a buttery smooth ride with a noticeable poppy feeling most everyday trainers lack. Despite the thick stack of foam underfoot, the Novablast 5 remains surprisingly nimble for an everyday trainer. While it鈥檚 not our first choice for dedicated speedwork, it handles uptempo efforts better than any other daily trainer we tested. The ride is also surprisingly stable thanks to the wide base and the responsiveness of the foam, which saves it from feeling squishy.

The fit, which is true to size, remains largely unchanged from the Novablast 4. Testers appreciated the new stitch-free engineered jacquard mesh upper, noting it felt a touch softer, improving overall comfort. Straight out of the box, the Novablast 5 felt run-ready with no break-in required.

One area that could be improved is the outsole. In an effort to keep the weight down, ASICS skimped on the rubber. This didn鈥檛 affect traction on dry surfaces, but one tester noted that he lacked confidence in the shoe during cold and wet runs. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not slick, but it doesn鈥檛 grip,鈥� he said.

We rarely suggest one shoe that would work for every runner, but the ASICS Novablast 5 is a standout that just about anyone would appreciate for almost any type of run.

Best Cushioned Trainer

Nike Vomero 18

Weight: 11.5 oz (men), 9.3 oz (women)
Stack Height: 46鈥�36 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Outstanding stability for such a tall shoe
鈯� Extremely comfortable
鈯� Heavy, slow

When it comes to adding volume to running shoe midsoles, more isn鈥檛 always better. Sometimes more is just more. That鈥檚 not the case with the Vomero 18. With an added six millimeters of foam underfoot, everything about this shoe exudes comfort. Holding the title as Nike鈥檚 most thickly cushioned running shoe to date, the Vomero 18 features a dual-density midsole that pairs a new version of Nike React X鈥攚hich Nike claims has 13 percent more energy return鈥攚ith ZoomX foam. React X, the firmer, more durable layer, delivers structure and support on the bottom, while the softer, more responsive ZoomX鈥攆eatured in Nike鈥檚 Alphafly and Vaporfly鈥攕its on top for a bouncier ride. The pairing delivered a smooth, cushioned ride that testers found both plush and surprisingly stable for such a high-stack shoe.

Nike didn鈥檛 just add more cushioning underfoot鈥攖he revamped engineered mesh upper also receives a healthy dose of padding for all-day comfort. The downside to all this plushness is that the Vomero 18 tipped the scales at 11.5 ounces for men and 9.2 ounces for women, making it the heaviest shoe we tested. While they are well balanced and don鈥檛 feel like weights on your feet, testers did note the shoe is best suited for everyday, easy, comfortable runs.

Best Distance Trainer

Brooks Glycerin Max

Weight: 10.5 oz (men), 9.5 oz (women)
Stack Height: 45鈥�39 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14, 15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Tuned midsole is both soft and responsive
鈯� Wide platform keeps tall midsole stable
鈯� Feels somewhat bulky

The Brooks Glycerin has long been Brooks鈥� premium highly cushioned everyday trainer. However, with stack heights increasing across the industry, its 38mm/28mm profile no longer stands out as a true max-cushioned option for long-distance running. Enter the Glycerin Max, which is Brooks鈥� highest-stacked shoe to date but manages to not feel overly tall.

Brooks鈥� new DNA Tuned midsole starts with its familiar nitrogen-infused EVA-based compound, but instead of being a consistent density throughout, the foam has different-sized cell structures in different locations, making it softer on the outside of the heel and firmer and more responsive on the inside of the heel and throughout the forefoot. 鈥淭he result is a high-cushion shoe that I found doesn鈥檛 wallow and allows the foot to engage as it rolls through the stride, making it a shoe that I, usually a max-shoe hater, wanted to wear more,鈥� noted one tester.

Raised sidewalls and a noticeably wide base aid in creating a stable stance for such a tall shoe. To enhance a smooth roll from an otherwise inflexible sole, a rockered forefoot encourages a natural forward transition, helping maintain momentum with each stride. A rather simple engineered mesh upper, consistent with other Brooks models, provides a true-to-size fit that complements the shoe鈥檚 plush underfoot feel. All in all, the Glycerin Max coddled our feet while rolling smoothly through the miles, making us want to keep going no matter how far from home we wandered.

Best Value

Brooks Launch 11

Weight: 7.7 oz (men), 7.1 oz (women)
Stack height: 35.5鈥�27.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 7-15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� A lot of bang for the buck
鈯� Foot-following fit and ride
鈯� Versatile
鈯� Narrow for some

It is not easy to find a good running shoe for less than 125 bucks these days, but the Brooks Launch 11 is an exception. The Launch 11 may not offer massive cushion or a carbon or nylon plate, but we kind of love that about it. Instead of the trampoline-like ride of so many other shoes on the market right now, the Launch 11 provides a classic, almost old-school vibe by allowing groundfeel while still offering a little bouncy rebound. Paired with an upper that conforms around and moves with your feet, plus looks great, we think this shoe gives a range of runners great bang for their buck.

With this update to the Launch, Brooks added 1.5 millimeters more lightweight, responsive cushioning (Brooks nitrogen-infused DNA Flash foam) under the heel and 2.5 millimeters more under the forefoot, with an insert of even lighter and springier DNA Flash 2. This gives the Launch 11 a higher stack height but a lower heel-toe offset (eight millimeters instead of 10) than the Launch 10. We found this update super comfortable and more than capable for everything from daily miles at a cruisy pace to shorter, faster efforts, and even allowed us to dance nimbly over tame trails. One tester noted that this shoe feels 鈥渓ight and springy and propels you forward,鈥� while another called it 鈥渄ownright snappy.鈥� Another tester gave the $120 Launch 11 a score of 10 out of 10, raving that it has 鈥渙ne of the best sneaker fits so far鈥� for her narrow foot, with 鈥渁ll the bells and whistles needed.鈥� Some other testers, however, found the fit too narrow.

Best Lightweight Trainer

Mizuno Neo Zen

Weight: 8.4 oz (men), 7.1 oz (women)
Stack Height: 39.5鈥�33.5 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 6-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Energetic midsole
鈯� Smooth, accommodating ride
鈯� Upper bunches for those with narrow feet

As the market has gravitated toward softer shoes, Mizuno鈥攍ong known for its firm underfoot feel鈥攈as lagged behind. That is, until now. Testers were blown away by the comfort and smooth ride of the Mizuno Neo Zen. The standout feature? Its nitrogen-infused supercritical TPU midsole. 鈥淚t feels completely different than anything out there. It is very soft but feels responsive when you get moving in it,鈥� said one tester, while another added, 鈥淚t鈥檚 soft enough to soak up impact on easy runs but has a propulsive energy return that makes picking up the pace feel effortless.鈥� There鈥檚 no shortage of cushioning either with just under 40 millimeters of foam under the heel. Yet, despite all that foam, it remains impressively lightweight.

Ironically, given Mizuno鈥檚 history of using wave plates, the Neo Zen doesn鈥檛 have a plate embedded in its midsole like most super trainers. This contributes to the shoe having less of the trampoline-like bounce we鈥檇 like for race day, but it does offer an energetic feel for uptempo running and delivers a flexible, forgiving ride.

The upper features a stretchy, one-piece knit design that adapts to a variety of foot shapes and sizes. Often, a one-piece knit upper can be hit or miss, lacking the ability to wrap differently shaped feet securely. However, outside of some rippling across the forefoot when tied tight, testers were impressed by its sock-like fit and out-of-the-box comfort.

Best Super Trainer

Nike Zoom Fly 6

Weight: 9.3 oz (men), 7.7 oz (women)
Stack height: 40鈥�32 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Works for a variety of runners
鈯� Performs at a variety of paces
鈯� Can feel funky when heel striking

By definition, supertrainers combine racing technology with more durable elements. The Zoom Fly 6 borrows ZoomX, Nike鈥檚 premium Pebax midsole foam, from the lauded Vaporfly super shoe racer. But while the Vaporfly 3 (and Alphafly 3) are solely built with ZoomX cushioning, the Zoom Fly 6 adds a bottom layer of more stable and durable EVA foam, making it a daily trainer built to last day in and day out. The Zoom Fly 6 also has a wider profile to feel less tippy than the raceday rockets, and a lower stack height which allows greater connection to the ground.

While the previous version of the Zoom Fly could feel thick and chunky on the foot, the 6 is lean and streamlined. We found it felt light and fast on tempo runs or when doing speedwork, and stable and comfortable on longer, slower runs, although the heel-toe transition is less smooth when heel striking at an easy pace.

The carbon plate sandwiched between the two layers of foam, which feels slightly less rigid and aggressively rockered than that in the Zoom Fly鈥檚 racing siblings, seemed to stabilize the ride and save energy. The texturized rubber outsole does a great job gripping dry or wet roads, and even feels capable on smooth dirt. The woven mesh upper is comfortable and breathable, and the partially gusseted tongue cradles the foot. The Zoom Fly 6 feels capable and fun for daily miles, but is no slouch as a race-day choice either.

Runners who don鈥檛 want to fork more than $250 for a race-only super shoe may just fall in love with the Zoom Fly 6, as many of our testers did.

Best For Recovery Runs

Diadora Nucleo 2

Weight: 9.7 oz (men), 7.4 oz (women)
Stack height: 35鈥�30 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Sizing: Men鈥檚 7-15; Women鈥檚 6-11.5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Good combo of cush and control
鈯� Comfortable upper
鈯� Tight across the toe box for wide feet

Yes, a shoe with a massive amount of soft cushioning can feel good underfoot for a cruisy run at an easy pace, but we think a comfy shoe with some stabilizing features works great for recovery. The Diadora Nucleo 2 is billed as a neutral trainer but has an updated heel counter that extends further towards the midfoot than the original Nucleo and provides some guidance to a tired stride. 鈥淭he stiff heel counter makes me feel protected and stable,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淚t made me feel capable for a longer run.鈥� We like how the cushioning from Diadora鈥檚 proprietary 鈥淎nima鈥� foam absorbs impact without feeling squishy for runs where we just wanted to zone out, and we appreciated the outsole鈥檚 ability to keep us sure footed.

We also enjoyed how the outsole of this road shoe allows for a little exploring. It鈥檚 made out of the brand鈥檚 anti-abrasive rubber, and even offered grip on slippery roads with alternating snowmelt and ice. 鈥淚 like that it has a little more traction than some shoes,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淚t can be used on road/packed trail, or road with imperfect conditions.鈥� And the soft-yet-secure mesh upper with a nicely padded tongue and heel collar feels like a comforting hug鈥攚hich is just what the doctor ordered after a day of hard training.

Read more about the Diadora Nucleo 2 in our stability shoe guide

Best Natural Ride

Mount to Coast R1

Weight: 8.5 oz (men), 7.5 oz (women)
Stack Height: 35鈥�27 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 6.5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Smooth ride,
鈯� Stable,
鈯� Adjustable lacing system
鈯� Not very cushioned

Hong Kong-based Mount to Coast may be new to the shoe scene, but it鈥檚 already making waves with its innovative approach to road running shoes. Marketed for ultra distance running, their debut shoe, the R1, is a medium stack height, everyday trainer with a suburb ground feel. One tester described the ride as 鈥渁lmost minimalist in allowing natural foot motion and sensitivity while dampening harsh landings.鈥� The magic lies in the combination of a proprietary nitrogen-infused supercritical PEBA-blend midsole with an embedded S-shaped PU-based insert that extends from the lateral midfoot to beneath the big toe. Testers reported that the firmer insert provided a slightly more stable platform during the transition from landing to toe-off without any hint of control.

What鈥檚 really unique is the dual lacing system that features a traditional shoelace over the midfoot and a separate, quick-pull tie for the forefoot. This design lets you customize tension independently, ensuring a tailored fit for both areas. We loved how it allowed for a roomy fit through the toes with a secure midfoot lockdown.

Although Mount to Coast markets these as an ultra-distance shoe, we’d confidently recommend them as a daily trainer for runners seeking a touch of cushioning while maintaining a natural feel.

Best Stability Shoes

Best All-Around

Asics GEL-Kayano 31

Weight: 10.7 oz (men鈥檚), 9.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 40鈥�30 mm (men鈥檚); 39鈥�29 mm (women鈥檚)
Drop: 10 mm
Sizing: Men鈥檚 6-16; Women鈥檚 5-13

Pros and Cons
鈯� Well-cushioned sole and upper
鈯� Smooth rolling ride
鈯� Stable without being firm or stiff
鈯� Somewhat heavy

Our testers were big fans of the Asics GEL-Kayano 30, which was a big departure from previous versions of the franchise shoe and a great example of how shoe companies have been rethinking traditional strategies to provide stability. The Kayano 31 built on the success of the 30, and we love it even more. 鈥淪ince the Kayano is a stability shoe,鈥� said a tester, 鈥淚 expected it to feel harder. But I was very pleasantly surprised at the high level of cushioning.鈥�

Like the 30, the 31 has a wide midsole and significant heel bevel, a flared sole under the forefoot, and soft, high-energy foam under the arch where we鈥檙e used to finding a firm medial post. Rather than attempting to block rotational movement, Asics says the bouncy insert, in combination with the shoes鈥� geometry, is designed to reduce the time at peak pronation and gently guide an over-rotating foot back into a more neutral position as it transitions from heel to toe-off.

The 31 boasts a new, engineered mesh upper that provides a great fit, regardless of foot shape. Testers loved how the upper 鈥渕orphs鈥� and 鈥渉ugs鈥� their feet, and raved about the plush comfort of the padded tongue and heel collar, as well as the cushioning underfoot. Also improved is the rubber outsole, which we found grippy on wet roads. This is a great update to an already reliable stability shoe that runs smoothly, responsively, and comfortably.

See our full round-up of stability shoes

Best Plush Stability

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2

Weight: 10.4 oz (men), 8.1 oz (women)
Stack height: 38鈥�28 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizing: 7-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 6-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft and smooth
鈯� Stable without feeling controlling
鈯� Toe box uncomfortable for some

The Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2鈥檚 significant stack of nitrogen-infused TPE foam underfoot and a wide forefoot silhouette make this feel like a lot of shoe. This thing is plush. But for that much cush this shoe comes in at a reasonable weight and offers a forgiving, comfortable ride.

Testers found the foam鈥攁 combination of a softer core surrounded by a firmer perimeter 鈥攖o feel great underfoot, noting that the shoe ran 鈥渟mooth and easy.鈥� That鈥檚 not a description that comes easy for a stability shoe, and makes the ForeverRun Nitro 2 stand out. Complementing the underfoot cush is a premium engineered mesh upper that eliminates interior seams (aside from the partially gusseted tongue, which adds midfoot hold) to provide a welcoming step-in feel.听 The secure heel hold with a stabilizing external heel clip gives way to a narrow/secure-fitting midfoot, then splays out to a wide forefoot geometry that seems to add inherent stability throughout the gait cycle.

Despite the wide forefoot shape at the base, some testers craved more room on the interior, noting a feeling of crammed toes. But overall, the ForeverRun Nitro 2 is a great option for those seeking a combination of stability and cushioning in a good-looking shoe.

See our full round-up of stability shoes

Paid Advertisement by Backcountry.com

HOKA Clifton 9 Running Shoe

Need a light, plush shoe for your everyday miles? Meet the HOKA Clifton 9. HOKA added more foam underfoot yet somehow dropped ounces to give increased shock absorption at a lower weight, making the ride smoother and your stride freer. The strategically placed rubber zones ensure this pair holds strong against the rigors of a daily trainer, while the articulated heel collar keeps you locked in mile after mile.

Best Lightweight Stability

Brooks Hyperion GTS 2

Weight: 7.6 oz (men鈥檚), 6.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 31.5鈥�23.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: Men鈥檚 7鈥�15; Women鈥檚 5鈥�12

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� Low-profile, agile-feeling, and supportive ride
鈯� Highly breathable upper
鈯� Can feel too squishy in the heel for some

We loved the first-iteration Hyperion GTS for its lightweight comfort and springy, nitrogen-infused cushioning that one tester described as 鈥渇un and fast.鈥� The second version is updated with a new midsole compound鈥攏itrogen-infused DNA Flash v2鈥攚hich Brooks says is lighter weight and more responsive than its predecessor. We concur鈥攐ne tester described it as 鈥渟nappy,鈥� while another remarked on how it seems to push back while compressing and offers impressive rebound.

The GTS 2 still features stabilizing guide rails along the sides of the heel鈥攁 raised extension of the midsole foam on the outside, a firmer TPU piece on the inside鈥攖o help reduce heel shift and rotation for runners whose stride strays excessively inward or outward, especially towards the end of their run as a result of fatigue.

We appreciated the feeling of support while still being able to run smoothly and speedily when we wanted to up the effort. 鈥淚鈥檇 definitely speed train in these,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e responsive, nimble, and light.鈥� These shoes are ideal for any runner looking for a daily trainer or racer that gives them a connected ground feel without being minimal. The cushioning is noticeable and lively, while the stability features are discreet. 鈥淚 found these easy to run in at any speed,鈥� said one. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e very responsive to whatever I feel like doing in them.鈥�

See our full round-up of stability shoes

Best Racing Shoes

Best Marathon Racer

Nike Alphafly 3

Weight: 7.8 oz (men), 6.2 oz (women)
Stack Height: 40鈥�32 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-15 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Bouncy, trampoline-like ride
鈯� Works for a wide range of runners
鈯� Lighter weight than previous versions of the AlphaFly
鈯� Heel can feel unstable
鈯� Can be hard to find in specific sizes

We鈥檝e run in all three versions of the AlphaFly to date and think this third iteration is a great update. Subtle adjustments to the shoe鈥檚 geometry, including a wider footprint and carbon fiber plate, paired with repositioned Air Zoom units and strategically sculpted midsole, give the Alphafly 3 a distinctly different feel from its predecessor, which many found heavy and clunky compared to the original. This shoe again feels bouncy, fun, and fast.

Complementing the cush and rebound of ZoomX (Pebax) foam and Air Zoom units (pockets of compressed air and tensile threads) is a full-length carbon fiber plate that gives the shoe extra snap and adds a touch of appreciated stability that even the most efficient runners can benefit from when fatigued (marathon, anyone?). One of our more competitive testers praised the Alphafly 3 for its bouncy, energy-saving ride and says she鈥檒l wear no other shoe for races longer than 10 miles. Another speedy tester noted, 鈥淓ven running as fast as 5k pace, I found the Alphafly responded quickly, encouraging a fast turnover.鈥� Some slower runners noted, however, that landing on the Alphafly鈥檚 sculpted heel can create a feeling of instability until the plate is engaged at the midfoot roll.

The upper of the Alphafly 3 is a lightweight, super-breathable mesh with an integrated tongue and thin, notched laces that pull tight and stay tied. Our feet were comfortable and secure without any pressure points on top of the ready-to-fly platform. We love that this shoe got lighter than its previous versions, which adds to its race-readiness.

Read our full review of the Alphafly 3. .

Runner-Up Marathon Racer

Saucony Endorphin Elite 2

Weight: 7.0 oz (men)
Stack height: 39.5鈥�31.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 3.5-14 (men鈥檚/unisex)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fast and springy
鈯� Secure foothold
鈯� Slightly unstable

Talk about an overhaul. This second iteration of the Saucony Elite could not be more different than the first. The primary reason is the underfoot feel of Saucony鈥檚 new, proprietary midsole material made out of TPEE that they鈥檙e calling 鈥淚ncrediRUN鈥� foam. While the original Elite鈥檚 midsole felt until compressed powerfully, the Elite 2鈥檚 midsole feels wildly squishy and unstable when walking or slow jogging in the shoe. But, as one tester noted, 鈥淥nce I started to pick up the pace, the foam firmed up and became insanely responsive.鈥� With a stack height that falls just within legal limits for a marathon-racing shoe, that massive amount of rebounding foam鈥攃ombined with a carbon fiber plate that鈥檚 slotted in the forefoot for flexibility (the same plate as in the original Saucony Elite) and an aggressive toe spring鈥攎akes this shoe beg for speed.

The upper has also been drastically updated, and we dig it. A combination of knit and mesh plus an airy knit tongue makes the shoe highly breathable. Testers found the heel collar and areas underneath the TPU overlays a bit warmer, but loved the secure heel fit paired with a roomier toe box. This is a fast, fun, lively shoe for race day.

Fit notes: We found this shoe to run a bit short. Also, the heel collar comes up high enough that a longer-than-no-show sock is needed.

Best For Shorter Road Races

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4

Weight: 7.1 oz (men), 6.1 oz (women)
Stack Height: 39鈥�33 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 6-13.5, 14.5 (men鈥檚), 5-12 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft, bouncier midsole than previous versions
鈯� Great fitting, comfortable upper
鈯� Less stability and ground feel than previous versions

For short road races like the 5k and 10k you need a shoe that鈥檚 lively, explosive, and ready to roll. The new Adios Pro is all that. 鈥淯nlike the Pro 3, which felt more like a cruising shoe, the Pro 4 actively pushed you forward,鈥� one tester remarked, adding that 鈥渋t makes fast paces feel easier.鈥� To achieve this, Adidas overhauled the Adios Pro 4 from top to bottom. Previously recognized as one of the firmer and more stable super shoes, it now joins the ranks of softer, bouncier super racers built for maximum cushioning and energy return. The newly formulated midsole is noticeably softer and bouncier.

Adidas鈥� signature energy rods are still embedded in the midsole, adding a bit of rigidity to the squish and roll. The start of the rocker, however, has been shifted backward, from 70 to 60 percent of the distance from heel to toe. When building their ultralight, high-performing race model, the , Adidas鈥� designers learned that the longer rocker engages the foot earlier in the stride and benefits forefoot and midfoot runners, enabling a smoother transition from midfoot to toe-off. Testers noted the change, with one saying, 鈥淭his shoe allows you to push off of your toe a lot easier than other shoes, which gives that fast feel.鈥�

Substantial improvements were also made to the upper, which is now crafted of a one-way stretch-woven upper material that鈥檚 incredibly soft and form-fitting. Testers loved how it adapted to their foot鈥檚 shape, providing a secure, locked-in feel for total control. 鈥淭he upper disappears on my foot in the best way possible,鈥� remarked one.

鈥淭he Pro 4 is lighter, bouncier, and responsive than the Pro 3鈥攁 huge step up.鈥� Unfortunately, those who liked the firmer, more stable and grounded feel of the Pro 3 may feel differently.

How to Choose a Running Shoe

When choosing a road running shoe, the first step is to determine the type of running you鈥檒l primarily be doing in them. Do you need a speedy racer, a shoe that offers comfort during long, slow jogs, or a versatile trainer that can handle various distances and paces?

Next, consider your preference for the feel of the shoe鈥檚 cushioning: do you like a soft, forgiving ride, a more energetic, bouncy sensation underfoot, or a firmer platform that provides better ground feel? With advancements in foams and technologies, many shoes today offer cushioning without compromising responsiveness or stability. However, each shoe balances these characteristics differently, providing a spectrum of options to choose from. The key to finding the perfect running shoe is choosing the one you鈥檙e most comfortable with.

Once you鈥檝e narrowed the search to a certain type of road shoe, you need to find a pair that complements your unique body and stride. Every runner鈥檚 body, gait, speed, experience, and ride preferences are different, so every runner will interact differently with each running shoe. The shoe that your best friend or your sister-in-law loves may be uncomfortable for you and make running feel slow, sluggish, or even painful. Finding the perfect pair of road running shoes is a seriously personal affair.

The process for choosing the best running shoes is a matter of finding the models that both fit your foot and also feel best when you鈥檙e running. To determine fit and feel, there鈥檚 no substitute for trying the shoes on and running in them.

Fit: Match Your Foot Shape

When assessing fit, first pay attention to length. You need room at the end of your toes as your feet lengthen during their dynamic movements on the run. A rule of thumb is to allow a thumb鈥檚 width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Runners often wear a running shoe a half or full size bigger than their street shoes.

Ensure that the shape of the sole and the upper matches your foot shape. The sole should be as wide or wider than your foot for the whole length, and match the curve of your arch comfortably. The shoe should hold your foot securely over the instep, while allowing the ball of the foot and the toes to splay and flex when you roll forward onto them. Your heel shouldn鈥檛 slip when you lift it, and the arch should be able to dome and lengthen naturally. Nothing should bind or rub as you roll through the stride.

Feel: Match Your Movement Path

If the shoe fits, it鈥檚 time to take them on a short run on a treadmill, around the store, or, ideally, down the block and back. Every running shoe has a unique ride created by the type and density of foam in the midsole and the geometry of that foam: its thickness, width, heel-to-toe drop, molded sidewalls or flares, and forefoot flexibility or rocker shape (plus, in an increasing number of models, the presence of and type of embedded plate). Each of these elements interact with each other and your stride to determine how the shoe reacts on landing, how much it cushions, how stably it supports, how smoothly it transitions from landing to toe off, and how quickly and powerfully it rebounds.

The best way to choose the shoes that complement your body and stride is to find the ones that feel right on the run. Benno Nigg, the world-leading biomechanics professor who , calls it the 鈥渃omfort filter,鈥� but makes clear it is far more than how plush the shoe feels when you step into it. What you want to assess is whether the shoe allows and supports the way your feet want to move, what Nigg calls your 鈥減referred movement path.鈥� In the right shoe, while running at your normal pace, you will touch down where you expect to land, roll smoothly and stably through the stride without noticing the shoe, feel both cushioned from and connected to the ground, and push off naturally, quickly, and powerfully. When this comes together you鈥檒l know that you鈥檝e found your pair.

It鈥檚 likely that several shoes will feel good on your feet. To find the most comfortable, it helps to compare them back to back, like an eye doctor will do with corrective lenses: flipping between 鈥淎鈥� or 鈥淏,鈥� 鈥�1鈥� or 鈥�2.鈥� You may also find that different shoes feel better at different paces or level of fatigue, and you may want more than one pair. In fact, research shows that wearing a variety of different shoes is one of the few to reduce injury risk as it appears to vary the stresses on your feet and joints.

What About Injury Prevention?

Running shoes have long been marketed and sold as prescriptive devices to help runners stay healthy, but there is correlating shoes, or any specific shoe properties鈥攍ike cushioning or pronation control鈥攚ith running injuries. Medical professionals say that it is highly difficult to determine whether a runner needs a certain type of shoe, and studies have shown that prescribing shoes using traditional methods like treadmill gait analyses or wet-foot arch height tests don鈥檛 consistently reduce injuries.

Don鈥檛 assume that you need more cushioning or more stability if you have sore joints, or if you鈥檙e a heavier runner, or if you鈥檙e a beginner鈥攅vidence doesn鈥檛 support many common beliefs. The best way prevent injury is find two or three different pairs that feel right on the run, ease into using them, and vary your shoes, your running surface and your pace regularly (plus avoid rapid increases in your training load and work on ).

How We Test

• Number of testers: 27
• Number of shoes tested: 102
• Number of miles: 21,000+ over a year

To test running shoes, we begin by researching every brand鈥檚 upcoming offerings for the coming season. We wind up with dozens of samples of the models (40 road shoes this season, 102 over the year) that are most promising鈥攏ot just for us, but for 27 testers that range in age, ability, running form, geographical location, and preferred shoe types. We try to put each tester in models from within the same category (e.g., neutral, stability, carbon fiber, zero drop or uptempo) so everyone can compare apples-to-apples.

After three to six months of running in each model on paved roads, concrete multi-use paths, treadmills, sandy beach paths, dirt roads, and tracks at a variety of distances, paces, and weather conditions, our crew members report back with their assessments of fit, comfort, traction, cushioning, flexibility, stiffness, pop, what type of running the model is best used for, how the shoe compares to other models, and more. We also run in every shoe ourselves, and, combining all the tester feedback with years of personal experience, hone in on the best. This guide combines the best recent shoes with outstanding shoes still available from the past two test periods.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Lisa Jhung

Freelance journalist, editor, and author has researched, tested, and written about running shoes for the past decade and a half, much of that time for 国产吃瓜黑料 and 国产吃瓜黑料 Buyer鈥檚 Guides. She coordinates a fleet of female shoe testers out of Boulder, Colorado, and says her home office is a perpetual obstacle course of cardboard boxes and piles of running shoes. Lisa鈥檚 written about gear of all kinds for numerous national magazines as both an editor and freelancer, including a stint as the Shoes & Gear blogger and trail running microsite editor for Runner鈥檚 World.

A high school jumper and occasional sprinter/hurdler, she started running鈥攔eally running鈥攁fter walking off the collegiate volleyball team, and moved on to road and trail races of any distance, triathlons, adventure races, and mountain running. She鈥檚 happiest testing rugged trail shoes on gnarly terrain, and also loves a good neighborhood jaunt鈥ut is almost always looking for ribbons of dirt. Lisa is the author of Running That Doesn鈥檛 Suck: How to Love Running (Even If You Think You Hate It) and Trailhead: The Dirt on All Things Trail Running.

Cory Smith

passion for running started over 30 years ago in high school when he became the number six ranked runner in the nation at 3000 meters his senior year. After high school, he competed at Villanova University, earning two NCAA Division I Championship showings. Today, he鈥檚 determined not to let age slow him down and competes on the national master鈥檚 circuit, running a 4:12 (4:30 mile pace)) 1500 meters and 9:04 (4:52 mile pace) 3000 meters in 2021 at age 43. He prefers a hard track workout or tempo run over an easy long run any day but also appreciates a challenging trail or mountain run.

His obsession with running shoes started in 2014 when he wrote his first shoe review for Gear Institute. Since then, he鈥檚 tested and reviewed hundreds of running shoes, clothing, and gear for 国产吃瓜黑料, Runner鈥檚 World, Footwear News, and other outlets. He has a soft spot for speedy shoes over heavy trainers but loves dissecting all shoes equally and thinking like a product engineer to explain the why behind every design detail. Cory is the Founder of , an online running coaching business, and since its inception in 2014, has coached runners鈥� to over 100 Boston Marathon Qualifying times.

Here鈥檚 one of 颁辞谤测鈥檚 shoe-testing routes on MapMyRun:

Jonathan Beverly

Jonathan fell in love with running his freshman year of high school and quickly became fascinated with finding the perfect pair of running shoes. That quest got a boost when he became editor of Running Times in 2000 and started receiving every new model as they were released. The parade of shoes continued while he served as shoe editor for Runner鈥檚 World, then editor of PodiumRunner, and currently fitness gear editor at 国产吃瓜黑料. Having now worn nearly every running shoe created in this century鈥攁nd a fair amount of those dating back to the early models of the 鈥�70s鈥攈e鈥檚 given up on finding the one best and now relishes the wide variety of excellent options.

Once a 2:46 marathoner regularly doing 50+ mile weeks, recent injuries and his age have reduced his volume by about half and slowed his easy training pace to around nine-minute miles鈥攂ut he says he still enjoys an uptempo workout or two each week. Beverly is the author of the book which explores how each individual鈥檚 gait鈥攁nd thus shoe preference鈥攊s unique. He enjoys getting scientists鈥� take on new shoe trends and trying to describe the nuances of each shoe鈥檚 ride.

The post The Best Running Shoes for Training and Racing appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If you鈥檙e a runner, walker, yogi, rock climber, or participant in nearly any active pastime, your feet endure a tremendous load, making your choice of footwear critical. While most people spend hours researching the perfect workout shoes, they give far less attention to their recovery shoes鈥攚hat they wear after the workout session is over.

Neglecting your feet after a workout or run can exacerbate foot alignment problems and muscle soreness, impeding your foot’s ability to recover. Recovery footwear is designed to support your tired feet, allowing them to move in their natural patterns and accelerating the recovery process while helping relieve any aches and pains.

Whether you’re nursing sore arches, rebuilding after a long run, or just relaxing, these recovery shoes, slides, and sandals will keep your feet happy and your performance at its best.

At A Glance

• Best Overall:
• Runner-Up:
• Best Value:
• Best Recovery Sandal:
• Best Recovery Slide:
• Best Recovery Shoe:
• Best Rugged:
• Best for Plantar Fasciitis:
• Best Winter Recovery Shoe:
• How to Choose Recovery Footwear
• How We Tested
• Meet Our Lead Tester

Best Overall

Kuru Moment

Pros and Cons
鈯� Adjustable strap for better fit
鈯� Supportive heel cup and footbed
鈯� Ribbed footbed
鈯� Stiff, thick midsole reduces ground proprioception

From the moment you slip into the Kuru Moment, it鈥檚 clear that cushioning, comfort, and support are the shoe鈥檚 main priorities. Specifically designed to reduce foot and heel pain, the Kuru Moment quickly became a unanimous tester favorite. One tester called it 鈥渨ildly comfortable鈥� and said, 鈥淚t鈥檚 one of the models I kept popping on after the wear test or at the end of the day or post run/workout,鈥�

Underfoot, the thick EVA midsole strikes a balance between plush cushioning and structured support, creating a soft yet stable foundation. A deep heel cup gently secures the heel, while the pronounced arch support provides reliable lift and alignment. The Moment offered noticeable relief for my chronic heel pain, delivering extended pain-free comfort post-run.

A ribbed footbed provides a pleasantly tactile feel with each step that adds to the overall comfort. The heavily padded adjustable velcro strap enables a fine-tuned fit regardless of your foot width.

Available in two sleek, dark, monotone colorways, this slide-style sandal has a refined, sporty aesthetic. While many recovery sandals can appear a bit unpolished, the Moment strikes an elevated look that鈥檚 ideal for running errands or casual outings.

Runner-Up

Topo Rekovr 2

Pros and Cons
鈯� Easy slip-on design
鈯� Comfortable, natural feeling
鈯� Wool upper runs hot

Another favorite among all our testers, the Topo Rekovr 2 won over our hearts and tired feet. Reminiscent of your coziest slipper, it combines dynamic support and a comfortable, wide-toe-box fit with suburb traction. One tester raved, 鈥淭his is by far my favorite slip-on I鈥檝e ever owned.鈥�

Where the Rekovr 2 really shines is in the outdoors. Its easy slip-on design is paired with a tacky Vibram outsole offering traction that reminded us of Topo鈥檚 award-winning trail shoes. One tester found it to be the perfect choice for wearing around the cabin, by the fire pit, or for short outings like waiting at the bus stop with the kids, while another kept them by the door for sure-footed trips across the yard to feed his dogs or check the mail, regardless of the weather.

Found to promote good foot health by the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Rekovr 2 features a modest stack height of 23 millimeters in the heel and 20 millimeters in the forefoot with a semi-flexible sole for a natural recovery experience. Ribbed insoles provide a tantalizing sole massage with a cushioned, comfortable step-in feel.

Its only flaw, which kept it from claiming the title of best overall, is the antimicrobial blended wool upper that retains heat. It can feel stuffy in hot and humid conditions, making it only a cool weather choice, whereas the Kuru Moment can be worn for more of the year.

Best Value

Velous Hoya Adjustable Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft footbed
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� Good arch support
鈯� Adjustable strap adapts fit for different feet
鈯� Questionable durability

The Velous Active Slide delivers impressive value for its price. It features one of the softer footbeds we tested over a firmer outsole. The combo delivers a cushioned underfoot feeling with added structure and durability. One tester described it as 鈥渋ncredibly lightweight, with excellent arch support and a secure fit.鈥�

The Active Slide provides a balance between stability and flexibility. The deep heel cup not only enhances stability around the rear foot but also helps align the foot with each step, minimizing strain. Meanwhile, the comfortable, structured arch support offers relief for those with flat feet or high arches. Flex grooves in the forefoot encourage a smooth, natural stride, allowing the toes to move freely during push-off while maintaining just enough overall support. What really stood out was the adjustable strap. At this price point, you rarely find a customizable fit that accommodates a variety of foot shapes and widths.

Remarkably lightweight, it feels airy, almost like you鈥檙e wearing nothing while still getting a cushioned underfoot experience. The downside, one tester noted, is that they 鈥渇eel much less substantial than every other slide we tested.鈥� Still, priced competitively, they provide one of the best bangs for your buck.

Best Recovery Sandal

OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

Pros and Cons
鈯� Secure fit
鈯� Uber soft footbed
鈯� No half sizes

The OOFOS OOriginal Sandal emerged as the best thong-style sandal in our test group. 鈥淭he cushioning, styling, and arch support all combine to make a well-packaged, functional, and extremely comfortable pair of footwear,鈥� said one tester.

Pioneers in using ultra-cushioned materials and molded arch support, OOFOS has set the standard for thong-style comfort. At the heart of the OOriginal Sandal is the OOfoam technology鈥攁n uber-soft foam that鈥檚 extremely shock-absorbing and squishy. Many testers found the foam just what they needed after a hard workout. One tester with severe heel pain found the soft foam coupled with the deep contoured footbed eased his suffering. Another tester, however, said the foam footbed lacked stability and made his feet work harder鈥攑roviding an active recovery but not relaxed support.

Made from closed-cell foam, these sandals boast impressive durability, standing up to daily wear and tear. The moisture- and bacteria-resistant material keeps them fresh even with extended use, and best of all, they鈥檙e machine washable for easy cleaning.

The straps are made with the same soft foam that鈥檚 underfoot, giving the sandal a comfortable and accommodating fit. Even our narrow-footed tester, who typically struggles with sizing issues, found these fit well. The only caveat is they only come in full sizes. If you鈥檙e in between sizes, we recommend sizing down.

Best Recovery Slide

Hoka Ora Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Stable platform
鈯� Smooth rockered feeling
鈯� Some may find it firm
鈯� Stiff strap

The Hoka Ora Slide brings that classic thick-soled and uber-comfortable Hoka experience to a recovery slide. 鈥淚t has a 鈥渧ery similar underfoot feel to most of Hoka鈥檚 inline footwear,鈥� noted one tester.

That鈥檚 because the Ora Slide features their signature early-stage meta-rocker technology in which the midsole is cut away under the forefoot creating an upward curve that rolls you forward with each footstep. The injection-molded sugarcane EVA midsole runs on the firmer end of the spectrum, providing a less squishy but very stable platform. Still, I found that the Ora Slide provided ample cushioning as well as heel support, effectively easing my chronic heel pain.

The strap is made from the same firm EVA material as the midsole and has a ton of structure. While none of our testers found it uncomfortable, one found the fit less than ideal on his irregular, gnarled feet. Those with particularly wide or narrow feet might prefer more adjustability for a better fit through the midfoot.

Weighing in at just over seven ounces, it鈥檚 remarkably light on the feet and easy to wear. Perhaps the best part is the selection of over twenty different colorways. With so many options, you鈥檙e sure to find a pair that matches your style and preferences.

Best Recovery Shoe

Roll Recovery Superplush

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfortable knit upper
鈯� Fosters natural foot movement
鈯� Versatile, wear-all-day look and feel
鈯� Not as supportive as some

While most recovery footwear options favor comfort over looks, the Roll Recovery Superplush manages to combine both. With its sleek design and premium materials, it offers a stylish alternative without compromising on the comfort and support needed for tired, aching feet.

Perfect for running errands or just lounging around the house, the Superplush is easy to slip on and off, yet one tester noted: 鈥漁nce on, the fit held securely enough I didn’t have to worry about sliding around or clenching my toes to stay in the shoe.鈥�

Instead of a stiff, thick sole that some find prescriptive, the Superplush offers a flexible and grounded underfoot experience, allowing your feet to move freely. One tester praised it as offering 鈥渁 stable, comfortable platform that feels supportive without being overbearing.鈥�

The standout feature of the shoe is the soft, stretchy knit upper. It鈥檚 incredibly breathable, making it ideal for all-day wear in warmer temps, and it feels luxuriously soft against the skin. Slipping these on was akin to stepping into a pair of cozy slippers.

As an added bonus, rest assured that you鈥檙e buying a sustainably made product. The Superplush uses Bloom Foam technology, which replaces petroleum-based materials with eco-friendly, algae-derived alternatives, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing comfort or performance.

Best Rugged

Arc鈥檛eryx Kragg

Pros and Cons
鈯� Sleek design
鈯� Comfortable, stretchy upper
鈯� Grippy Vibram outsole
鈯� Expensive

If there’s one thing Arc’teryx excels at, it鈥檚 seamlessly blending form and function with clean, attractive aesthetics, and the Kragg is no exception. This shoe is an absolute stunner. Originally built as a slip-on approach shoe for rock climbers, the Kragg is so comfortable it quickly became my go-to when I need a stylish, plush, easy on/off option for recovery.

Perfect as a travel shoe or jetting around town, the Kragg features a stretchy single mesh upper that鈥檚 streamlined and extremely accommodating. The interior is so soft and smooth against the skin that it鈥檚 perfect for going sockless.

The soft, collapsible heel wrap鈥攔esembling neoprene鈥攇ently molds to the shape of your heel, providing a snug yet nonconstricting feel. Inside, the removable insole doubles as the midsole, providing just enough underfoot cushioning to dampen landings without sacrificing sensitivity and sole flexibility. Sturdy TPU and Vibram rubber sidewalls plus a reinforced toe cap provide great protection against rugged terrain. And the Vibram Megagrip outsole shines over rocky terrain with enough grip on dirt to feel secure. I felt secure and comfy in this hybrid active/recovery shoe from the trail to the sofa.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

OOFOS OOahh Slide

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great arch support
鈯� Soft footbed
鈯� Lightweight
鈯� Not great for narrow feet

Plantar fasciitis can be downright debilitating. The sharp pain radiates through the bottom of your feet and makes even standing difficult. To help ease the agony, you need footwear that provides adequate support through the arch while being soft and cushioned in the heel. Testers found the OOFOS Slide fit that bill better than any other recovery footwear tested. While it may not cure plantar fasciitis, one PF-suffering tester noted, 鈥淚t makes getting through your day a whole lot more comfortable.鈥�

The comfort lies in the exceptionally soft and contoured footbed, complete with built-in arch support. Designed to reduce stress on the knees, ankles, and joints, the patented footbed delivered on its promise, with our testers agreeing it made a noticeable difference in how they felt post-workout. One tester with chronic plantar fasciitis and mobility issues found immediate relief while wearing them.

Beyond its comfortable footbed, the slide is impressively lightweight, offering a barely-there feel. The main drawback is the non-adjustable strap. While it secured most of our tester’s feet comfortably, one tester with very narrow feet found the fit loose and sloppy.

Best Winter Recovery Shoe

Adidas Winter Slip-On Cold.Rdy Boots

Pros and Cons
鈯� Exceptionally warm
鈯� Tough durable outer layer
鈯� Ankle collar鈥檚 snug fit can cause pressure

The Adidas winter slip-on is an excellent choice for those needing a quick and easy-on/off recovery shoe for cold climates. Providing insulation and a weather-resistant exterior, they鈥檙e ideal for slipping on after a ski or snowboard session, taking the dog out in tundra-like conditions or just lounging around on lazy winter days.

Made with a cozy combination of PrimaLoft庐 ECO and PrimaLoft庐 Gold insulation, the interior feels as comfortable as your favorite fleece. These puppies are warm, too鈥攍ike a mini toaster oven for your feet!

Underfoot, the slip-on is firm, grounded, and well-protected. The Continental rubber outsole with a heavily lugged pattern provides outstanding grip while a tough molded toe cap offers a 鈥渓ittle clumsiness protection,鈥� as one tester put it.

Another tester noted that the ankle collar felt slightly snug, creating a bit of pressure along the top of the foot. This pressure eased a bit the longer we wore them, but it鈥檚 something to consider for those with wider ankles.

How to Choose Recovery Footwear

Type: Shoe, Sandal, Slide or Slip-on

Recovery footwear comes in various styles, each offering a slightly different experience that may be more suited for a particular activity or use case. Generally speaking, recovery footwear will come in one of the following designs: shoe, sandal, slide, or slip-on.

Recovery shoes look and fit like your everyday shoes. They have a closed heel and some sort of enclosure device like laces, drawstring, or BOA. Recovery shoes are great for extended uses like running everyday errands or walking longer distances.

Slip-ons are similar to recovery shoes with their closed heel but they stay secure using a stretchy upper, allowing for easy on and off. The closed heel offers stability, while the slip-on design makes them ultra convenient for travel, around-the-house and in-the-yard wear, or for those with busy, on-the-go lifestyles wanting quick shoe transitions.

A sandal, otherwise known as a flip flop, features a flat sole attached to the foot by a Y-shaped strap or thong that sits between the toes. Flip flops are easy to slip on and off, making them great for quick errands and short, casual outings. Because they are usually worn without socks and leave feet open to the elements, they are limited to warmer weather

A slide, like a sandal, is an open-toe shoe. However, instead of a thong, it features a single wide strap or multiple straps across the top of the foot, allowing the shoe to be easily “slid” on and off, hence the name 鈥渟lide.鈥� Slides tend to have a more casual, athletic appearance and are great for lounging around the house and quick errands.

Cushioning

Perhaps the most important aspect of recovery footwear is to make sure you have adequate cushioning and shock absorption as they help relieve pressure on tired feet and support recovery after activity. Cushioning in recovery footwear typically involves soft, dense foam materials like Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) that provide a plush feel underfoot. This padding absorbs impact with every step, easing strain on muscles, tendons, and joints. By minimizing the force transferred to the feet, shock absorption can significantly reduce soreness and prevent further strain, making recovery footwear beneficial for post-run care and overall foot health.

How much cushioning is somewhat of a personal preference. Thick, cushioned recovery shoes like the OOFOS Stride will feel soft underfoot but come with the trade-off of reduced ground proprioception and feel. If you prefer more connection with the ground, a lower-cushion option like the Topo Rekovr 2 or Roll Recovery Superplush may be better. Ultimately, the key is finding recovery footwear that feels comfortable and promotes relaxation.

Support

Underfoot and arch support can vary from one recovery footwear to another. Some will have a stiff sole with noticeable arch support, while others will offer a more flexible, natural feeling with minimal support. Like cushioning level, how much support you need depends on your personal preference. However, in general, those needing added stability should look to stiffer options such as the Kuru Moment or Hoka Ora Slide, while others might favor a softer, more adaptable design such as the Topo Rekovr or Roll Recovery Superplush.

How We Tested

For this test, we brought in the expertise of four testers with varied backgrounds鈥攆rom running, rock climbing, and yoga to travel, plus a running store owner who spends all day on his feet. We started by researching the top recovery shoes and sandals based on customer feedback and reviews to determine which shoes and sandals we would test. Based on that research, we tested a total of 17 pairs of recovery shoes and sandals from 11 brands. Testers had a little over a month to wear the sandals and report back with their results. Each tester was asked to rank their favorites across nine different categories.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Cory Smith has been reviewing footwear for 国产吃瓜黑料 since 2014, testing over 70 pairs each year. Splitting his time between Santa Barbara, CA, and Philadelphia, PA, Cory has been an avid runner, rock climber, and skier for more than 30 years. With his 30-mile running weeks and climbing sessions two to three times a week, his feet take a beating, making him a fan of thick-soled, cushioned recovery shoes. In addition to reviewing running gear, Cory operates a private online running coaching business, .

The post Ease Your Tired Feet with These 9 Best Recovery Shoes, Slides, and Sandals appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Summer running is challenging enough with the heat and humidity. The last thing you need is to be held back by underperforming running shorts. The perfect running shorts should be so comfortable that you hardly notice them鈥攏o bunching, chafing, or feeling restricted, all while looking good. We tested over 40 pairs in the most sweltering conditions to find the best running shorts for you, whether you prefer the freedom of 3-inch shorts, the standard 5-inch, or the extra coverage of 7-inch.

While you鈥檙e at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve removed one item and added three new picks to our guide from Hoka, Adidas, and Under Armour.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best Value:
• Best for High Heat:
• Best Splurge:
• Best Half Tight:听
• Best Wear-Anywhere:
• What to Look For in Running Shorts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Patagonia Strider Pro 5鈥� Shorts

Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfortable fit and fabric
鈯� Breathability
鈯� Flattering understated style
鈯� Some prefer a shorter inseam in high heat and humidity

国产吃瓜黑料鈥檚 testers have run in several dozen shorts over the past few years, yet they keep landing on this workhorse as one of the best (it made our list in 2023 as well). 鈥淭he fabric and tailoring combine to make a short that is coolly comfortable in fit, performance, and style,鈥� tester Jonathan Beverly said. 鈥淭he waistband has the right thickness and amount of stretch to stay put but not squeeze, the fabric drapes and dries nicely, and the liner is soft and airy without any irritating seams.鈥�

Its just-right qualities extend to the pocketing鈥攚ith one central rear zip and a stealth slot on each back hip鈥攁nd to moisture management: only when the dew point was above 70 Fahrenheit did the outer layer get saturated enough to cling. Environmental bonus: Recycled polyester makes up 90% of the garment. – Scott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Launch 5鈥� Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Excellent value
鈯� Comfortable fit
鈯� No secure zippered pocket

Sometimes, simplicity is the best approach. Designed to provide exactly what you need to stay dry and comfortable and nothing more, the Under Armour Launch 5鈥� Shorts deliver high performance without the high price tag. The shorts are made from a stretchy woven polyester fabric over a breathable mesh liner and have vented mesh side panels to allow excess heat to dissipate.

As you might expect from a budget-friendly pair of shorts, they don鈥檛 offer the most ergonomic fit designed specifically for runners, trending to the looser side. However, the relaxed fit through the legs with side notches does offer good mobility.

The shorts feature two side hand pockets, one of which includes an elastic mesh holder meant for your phone. We found, however, that It鈥檚 not the most secure spot while running and recommend finding a for carrying your phone. Beyond the competitive price point, one of the best features is the the wide choice of colors (seven options!). – Cory Smith

Best for High Heat

Hoka Glide 5鈥� Short w/ Brief

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight
鈯� Comfortable liner
鈯� Phone bounces in back mesh pocket

If you’re the kind of runner who trains no matter how hot and humid it gets, you need a pair of shorts that are lightweight, breathable, and won’t weigh you down when drenched in sweat. The Hoka Glide 5鈥� short with brief fits this bill perfectly.

The thin stretch-woven polyester/spandex fabric with a DWR coat is incredibly airy and flexible. A mesh liner enhances the shorts’ breathability while offering a good amount of support. Even during my most humid runs, when I became soaked with sweat, the shorts remained unrestrictive, soft, and comfortable.

The shorts feature a small zippered pocket ideal for securing essentials like keys and money, and a spacious mesh rear pouch, open on both ends and large enough to hold a phone or soft flask. Items in the large mesh pocket, however, tend to bounce around while running. – CS

Best Splurge

Soar Run Shorts

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Good blend of comfort and performance
鈯� Suitable for most seasons
鈯� Pocket too small to hold a phone

These unassuming, light, ventilated offerings are a good option for your core shorts鈥攖hat pair you grab throughout the year, for all kinds of runs, because you know they鈥檒l be comfortable and functional. During our summer testing, they especially excelled on hard runs when sweat rates were higher, thanks to their polyamide/elastane blend. The slim, separate waistband keeps everything secure without causing lower-GI-tract distress, which is common when your body has shunted blood from internal organs to the skin to help with cooling.

The 5鈥� inseam strikes a balance between modesty and uninhibited motion. The rear zip pocket is too small for a phone but can simultaneously hold a key, credit card, and gel. – SD

Best Half Tights

Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Supportive fit
鈯� High-quality material
鈯� Thick material can run hot

There’s something uniquely satisfying about the feel of snug, supportive tights hugging your muscles. The Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight, crafted from a relatively thick blend of 83% polyester and 17% elastane, delivers mild compression to your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, ensuring they stay engaged and protected during even the most intense runs.

Flexible, rubber-like (TPE) strips stretch across the major muscles to add additional support. The result is a tighter, more supportive fit than any other tight we tested. Although you might expect tights to feel restrictive, the material is surprisingly stretchy and flexible, allowing full range of motion. The downside is that they can feel too warm in hot conditions.

Inside the tights, there’s a small fold-over pocket designed for essentials like keys or cards. While functional, the addition of a zippered pocket would have been ideal to ensure the secure storage of important items. -CS

Best Wear-Anywear

Flylow Hawk Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Pockets aplenty
鈯� Leisurewear styling
鈯� Bigger fit than some runners prefer

The Flylow Hawk are high-performing, well-pocketed shorts that won鈥檛 make you look like a running nerd. 鈥淭hese are officially my new favorite running shorts,鈥� tester Nathan Brown said. 鈥淔rom the comfort of the brief liner to the aesthetics, these shorts ticked all the boxes.鈥�

The polyester/spandex fabric is water-resistant and wicks massive amounts of sweat, provides UPF 40+ sun protection, and allows full range of motion. The back-hip pockets hold fobs and fuel without sagging. The zippered rear pocket accommodates a phone without excessive bouncing. At the same time, they look more like leisurewear shorts than high-performing running bottoms. Our tester often wore them for non-running activities, which isn鈥檛 something most of us like doing in most running shorts. – SD

What to Look For in Running Shorts

Running shorts vary in length, liners, pockets, fit, and fabric. You鈥檒l want a length that is short enough for full, unimpeded motion (the faster the run, the shorter and more split the shorts tend to be), but long enough to feel decent on the trail, road, or post-run coffee shop.

Liners range from soft, loose briefs to compression-shorts-like stretchy boxers鈥攐r none at all for those who prefer to wear their own underwear. Choosing between liners is a matter of personal taste, balancing breathability and range of motion with level of coverage and control.

Pockets need to be big and secure enough for whatever you want to carry: phone, keys, cards, gels. Location is important to allow convenient access and avoid bouncing and chafing, as is the robustness of the waistband to prevent sagging when carrying anything heavy, like a phone.

When it comes to fit and fabric, as with all summer running gear, you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, don鈥檛 stink, and don鈥檛 get in the way.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best summer gear without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running鈥檚 high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines aren鈥檛 something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If you鈥檝e ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won鈥檛 want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you鈥檙e drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, 鈥淲hatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I鈥檒l just buy the cheapest gear out there.鈥� Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don鈥檛 hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of shorts tested: 40+
• Number of miles run in testing: 4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 97 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.鈥攆rom coastal Maine and western Maryland to central Wisconsin, the high plains of Nebraska, the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and out to Santa Barbara on the California coast, plus, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid 70s. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today鈥檚 running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer.

We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, value, and looks to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like 国产吃瓜黑料 and Runner鈥檚 World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A cross-country race Cory Smith ran while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Scott Douglas

I鈥檝e run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, I鈥檓 fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine.

Here is a portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for 国产吃瓜黑料 and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Men appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Whether you embrace the heat and humidity of summer running or long for a return to cold, dark winter days, running during the summer can be both exhilarating (all that daylight!) and daunting (all that sweat!) at the same time.

Regardless of your preference, the right running top can keep you cooler and drier while making you feel fast and fashionable. To help you choose the best running tops, we tested over 50 short-sleeve t-shirts and tank tops to find the best moisture-wicking men’s running shirts.

While you鈥檙e at it, be sure to check out our picks for the听best running shorts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve added three new shirts to the guide, including a new best value pick from Under Armour. All links and picks are up to date.

At a Glance

• Singlets/Tank Tops
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best Value:
  • Best Airflow:
  • Best Splurge:听
• T-Shirts
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best for Trail Running:
  • Softest Feel:
  • Best Value:
• What to Look For
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.听

SINGLETS/TANK TOPS

Best All-Around

Adidas Adizero Running Singlet

听

Sizing: XL-2XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Silky smooth feeling
鈯� Superb mobility
鈯� Saturates with moisture easily

There’s something about a light, airy singlet that makes me feel fast. No other singlet captured this sensation better than the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet. Made from a thin, lightweight blend of 86% recycled polyester and 14% elastane, the texture feels phenomenal鈥攕mooth and silky, easily moving over the skin. Testers praised its soft touch and barely-there sensation, with one noting it as 鈥渢he lightest and most comfortable singlet I鈥檝e ever worn.鈥�

The fit is slightly slim, but thanks to the stretchy fabric and side slits in the hem, the singlet offers exceptional mobility. I prefer a slightly looser fit, and my typical men鈥檚 medium fit that bill perfectly.

The entire singlet has tiny holes in the face to enhance breathability. Testers enjoyed its airy feel but noted that the fabric tends to stick to the skin when fully soaked through, a common issue among most super thin shirts tested. Despite this, this stylish, comfortable singlet stood out as one of the best we tested, one we reached for often. 鈥擟ory Smith

Best Value

Path Projects Andes AD Tank Top

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Highly breathable
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 cling
鈯� Good value
鈯� Some prefer wider armholes in hot weather

We valued this tank for its lightness and breathability. 鈥淭he 90% polyester/10% spandex fabric is woven with an interior texture that reduces the amount of fibers touching the skin, and ventilating holes that let it breathe freely,鈥� one tester said. 鈥淚t never got soaked and clingy against my skin like most tech singlets. It鈥檚 slim-fitting without being tight, so it stays close to the body and out of the way. Plus, it falls just past the waistline, so it isn鈥檛 bunching over my shorts.鈥� I also appreciated the wider shoulder straps on trail runs, as a little extra protection against brush snags and bug bites.

Bonus: The Andes costs no more than most run-of-the-mill clingy tops. 鈥擲cott Douglas

Best Airflow

Pressio Elite Singlet

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Good wicking and airflow
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 cling
鈯� Baggier fit than some prefer
鈯� Too see-through for casual wear

The first time my wife saw me in this piece, she said, 鈥淪inglets have really improved.鈥� She鈥檚 right. This and many other tops I tested look and perform better than the sleeve-free tubes of cheap polyester I used to wear for summer running. The Elite rose above most because it didn鈥檛 cling, even on runs when I sweated so much my shoes squished with every footstep.

The 100% recycled polyester yarn has a micromesh construction in the front and a larger, stretchy (thanks to 9 percent elastane), nearly see-through mesh in the back to maximize airflow. The drape of the cut and lightness of the fabric make chafing more or less impossible. If you haven鈥檛 bought a singlet in many years, the Elite will catch you up on innovations. 鈥擲cott Douglas

Best Splurge

Tracksmith Strata Singlet

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Unbeatable heat and moisture management
鈯� Odor resistant
鈯� Costs twice as much as many other well-made singlets

This ultralight marvel is the best singlet I鈥檝e run in during my 40+ years in the sport. The fit is slim but not restrictive, with plenty of stretch. The bluesign-certified nylon/elastane blend incorporates coldblack, a Schoeller Textil technology that reduces heat absorption like nothing else I鈥檝e experienced. As someone who can lose 5 of his 130 pounds on an easy hour run in Maine, I鈥檓 used to wringing out gear post-run and leaving large puddles. This simply wasn鈥檛 possible when I wore the Strata; although my shorts and socks were drenched, little sweat had collected on the singlet.

And then there鈥檚 its odor resistance: I ran at least an hour in it every day without washing it during one of summer鈥檚 hottest, most humid weeks. It smelled the same on Day 7 as on Day 1. The Strata is expensive, but a good value, given that owning one eliminates the need for all but maybe one other singlet. 鈥擲cott Douglas

SHORT SLEEVE SHIRTS

Best All-Around

Walter Sky Merino Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Wool softness and odor resistance
鈯� Breathable, non-clinging
鈯� Year-round versatility
鈯� Fabric elongates during longer runs

This shirt鈥檚 $75 price tag seems like a lot until you experience its comfort and versatility. 鈥淵ou can both run in it and wear it casually during all four seasons鈥攐n its own or as a base layer,鈥� said tester Jonathan Beverly. Innovative Nuyarn construction (70% merino wool/30% nylon) means more merino fibers are exposed to air than in conventionally made merino tops, leading to less moisture buildup and more cooling.

At only 105 grams per square meter, or about two-thirds the heft of many running shirts, it 鈥渨icks and breathes excellently and stands away from my skin even when wet,鈥� Jonathan said. It also feels softer than any other lightweight merino tees we have tried, and doesn鈥檛 smell even after daily wear for a week. We have made this shirt a mainstay in our year-round running and daily life wardrobes. 鈥擲cott Douglas

Best for Trail Running

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running Tee

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Mesh-vented back panel
鈯� Superb moisture control
鈯� Short hem length

With all the gear required for trail running, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a trail-specific running shirt, especially when using a hydration vest. What sets this trail running top apart is the highly breathable mesh that covers the entire back鈥攑erfect for maintaining airflow while wearing a pack. Even without something on my shoulders, the airy mesh was a game changer, keeping my back dry, venting heat, and preventing the shirt from getting drenched in sweat.

Crafted from recycled ocean plastic, the front of the shirt is incredibly thin and also excels at moisture management. Even during a trail run in near 100-degree temperatures, the shirt barely became saturated. One tester said it kept him cool, dry and comfortable during the surging heat and moisture spikes of a warm-day fartlek workout, and it was the shirt he kept reaching for whenever the morning dawned steamy and sticky.

The fit is described as regular, and I鈥檇 concur. My usual men鈥檚 medium had ample room in the midsection, though the hem was slightly shorter than expected. 鈥擟ory Smith

Softest Feel

Paka Men鈥檚 Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Versatility
鈯� Softness
鈯� Sustainability
鈯� Gets saturated in hot, humid weather

With the advent of technical fibers, most runners started shunning cotton apparel. This shirt, made of a blend of 85% organic pima cotton and 15% royal alpaca fiber, might make you reconsider. It鈥檚 pleasingly soft against the skin, which led Nathan and I to use it for both running and daily life. Moisture management is excellent on easy runs in non-oppressive weather. The shirt doesn鈥檛 hug even after sweat starts to collect.

Because of the shirt鈥檚 versatility and Paka鈥檚 sustainability efforts, Nathan picked this tee as the item he鈥檚 most likely to buy as a gift for other runners. 鈥擲cott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve

Sizing: XS-5XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Affordable price
鈯� Wide range of colors
鈯� Excellent moisture management
鈯� Loose fit can feel baggy

At less than half the cost of most running shirts, the Under Armour Tech 2.0 is an excellent option for budget-conscious runners seeking a lightweight, moisture-wicking top. Made from 100% polyester, this straightforward tee delivers exactly what you need in a breathable shirt with no extras, just reliable performance.

Though intended as a general-purpose workout tee, we found it perfectly suitable for running. The thin, partially transparent fabric provided excellent airflow and dried quickly when wet. The only drawback is that it fits a bit looser than typical running shirts, particularly in width.

The highlight? It comes in over 20 color options, including regular and tall sizes. While it may not be the most technical running shirt, with its simple polyester construction and lack of stretch, it鈥檚 budget-friendly enough to grab a few in different colors. 鈥擟ory Smith

What to Look for in Summer Running Apparel

Dressing for summer running is straightforward鈥攜ou want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, don鈥檛 stink, and don鈥檛 get in the way. Shirt choices come down to how much skin coverage you prefer, fit, and material.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running鈥檚 high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines aren鈥檛 something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If you鈥檝e ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won鈥檛 want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you鈥檙e drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, 鈥淲hatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I鈥檒l just buy the cheapest gear out there.鈥� Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don鈥檛 hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers:听10
• Number of products tested: 20+ singlets, 40+ short sleeve tees
• Number of brands tested: 45+
• Number of miles run in testing:听4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 101 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.鈥攆rom the California beach town of Santa Barbara to central Wisconsin and the high plains of Nebraska, to the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid-70s over both roads and trails. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today鈥檚 running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer. We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, and value鈥攁nd looked to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like 国产吃瓜黑料 and Runner鈥檚 World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A 13.25km trail race Cory Smith ran while testing the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet.

(Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Scott Douglas

I鈥檝e run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, I鈥檓 fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine. [Editor’s note: Scott managed testing and wrote the reviews for this guide through the spring of 2024]

A portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on regularly while testing running shirts and singlets:

(Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for 国产吃瓜黑料 and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shirts for Men appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

For years, I鈥檝e viewed kinesiology tape鈥攖hose brightly colored stripes you see on the legs and shoulders of athletes鈥攁s nothing more than snake oil, something people used for show without any real benefits. All my experiences with athletic tape involved protecting an injured joint by tightly wrapping and immobilizing it. I was skeptical that a few strips of tape on the skin could do much.

I hadn鈥檛, however, actually used the product. So when I was invited to attend a summit to learn the science behind a new kinesiology tape product and try it out, I eagerly accepted the invite. As someone deeply passionate about running, climbing, and skiing, and having seen many pro-level athletes embrace the tape, I was intrigued to personally discover if there was substance behind the hype or if it was merely smoke and mirrors, as I had previously believed.

KT Tape funded the travel for this review, but our opinions are our own. If you click or buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

What is Kinesiology Tape?

Kinesiology tape is a stretchy, elastic cotton strip with an adhesive backing. I learned it is designed to replicate the elasticity and thickness of human skin, offering support, stability, and pain relief while allowing free movement. It is most commonly used by athletes and physical therapists to aid in the treatment of muscle and joint injuries and enhance performance by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

When applied correctly, kinesiology tape lifts the skin, decompressing the fascia and allowing lymphatic fluid to drain rather than build up. Blockage of lymphatic fluid can cause swelling and pain. Lifting the skin and opening up blood flow also facilitates the transport of white blood cells to the area, thus reducing harmful bacteria and waste products from cells and tissues.

When I looked at the scientific literature on kinesiology tape, I found the evidence mixed. While some studies suggest that it may provide benefits such as pain relief, improved muscle function, and reduced swelling, other research indicates that its effects may be no different from a placebo.

One found its benefits trivial, citing it “may have a small beneficial role in improving strength and range of motion in certain injured cohorts,鈥� but went on to say that further studies are needed to confirm these findings. Another , this one in 2015, found applying kinesiology tape was 鈥渟uperior to minimal intervention for pain relief,鈥� (or, put another way, better than doing nothing) but concluded it was not better than other treatments to reduce pain. This ambiguity only reinforced my skepticism, but also increased my interest in why the tape has become so popular.

How I Tested KT Ice Pro Tape

The summit, held in Park City, Utah, centered around the launch of , a new kinesiology tape infused with cooling menthol. Menthol, a compound available in both natural and synthetic forms, reduces pain sensation when applied to the skin by creating a cooling effect. KT Tape Pro Ice incorporates menthol into its adhesive, providing the dual benefits of kinesiology tape and pain-numbing menthol.

The event planners鈥� strategy was to spend time working out鈥攕kiing and snowshoeing鈥攖o induce muscle soreness and fatigue, then use KT Tape Pro Ice to alleviate that soreness and any accompanying pains. Doubtful that the menthol-infused version would make any difference, I was in for a surprise.

KT Tape Pro Ice

As an avid runner, I frequently deal with nagging aches and injuries. Currently, I’ve been grappling with a persistent Achilles injury, which鈥攄espite using topical pain relievers, seeing physical therapists, and even considering surgery鈥攈as been an issue for several years. I was hopeful that Pro Ice might help. I have Haglund’s deformity, a large bump on the back of my heel that, when pressure is applied, swells and causes pain. Since ski boots fit tightly, I鈥檓 usually in pain immediately following a day of skiing. This time was no exception. We were slated to go snowshoeing the night after skiing, creating a perfect test of KT Tape Pro Ice鈥檚 pain-relieving qualities.

After skiing, we were handed samples of KT Tape Pro Ice and instructed to apply it to any painful areas. Experts were available to assist with the application. The proper application method, they explained, is called . You stretch the center of the tape, apply it to the skin, and leave about two inches unstretched at each end to secure it to your limb. Given I was completely new to this, I opted to have an expert apply it to ensure it was done correctly.

Within a few minutes, I could feel the menthol working. There was a strong cooling sensation that did indeed seem to override my pain. Usually, my Achilles stiffens when I rest after activity, but the tape also helped alleviate that. It felt like it prevented my Achilles from cooling down and tightening up during periods of inactivity. I could feel the menthol working for around four hours, and it reactivated when I started sweating during snowshoeing.

Once I got home, I continued testing KT Tape Pro Ice on my Achilles when it was sore and also on my lower back for pain caused by moving large heavy objects. When applying the tape at home, the cooling effect was nowhere near as strong on my Achilles as it was initially at the event, but it felt stronger on my lower back pain.

We were told that each person would experience the menthol differently. Some may have a strong reaction to the cooling, with it lasting four to eight hours, while others may not feel anything at all, adding the cooling effect may even vary between applications on the same person.听 Apart from this warning that the cooling effect may vary between applications and body parts, and the fact that I was applying it myself, I’m unsure why it wasn’t as effective on my Achilles on subsequent applications. Luckily, my Achilles has not been painful enough that I felt I needed serious relief鈥攚hich may be another explanation for the reduced sensation.

I鈥檝e continued to test it on various body parts such as sore forearms from rock climbing and sore thighs from running鈥攁nd each time it provided pain relief and improved post-soreness mobility.

I still haven鈥檛 tried kinesiology tape without menthol, and I鈥檓 not sure I鈥檒l need to as long as I have the Pro Ice version. The addition of menthol really brings the tape to life. Every time I鈥檝e used it, I immediately feel the tape working, significantly reducing my perception of soreness, and allowing me to work out again sooner. After testing KT Tape Pro Ice, I’m completely convinced of its benefits and have even become somewhat addicted to it.

Here鈥檚 the thing: KT Tape is safe鈥攏o scientific studies I鈥檓 aware of have reported adverse effects from using it. Furthermore, while the studies are ambiguous about its benefits, there are countless anecdotal stories of KT Tape helping individuals manage injuries during both exercise and daily activities for many years. If the worst outcome of it not working is losing a few bucks, there’s little reason not to try it.

The post How Menthol-Infused KT Tape Pro Ice Converted a Kinesiology Tape Skeptic appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Ever since Nike introduced the Vaporfly 4% in 2017, brands have competed fiercly to craft the ultimate road racing shoe. Commonly referred to as “supershoes,” this innovative footwear employs high-rebound foams and curved, rigid plates to enhance running efficiency while minimizing muscle damage.

Simply put, these high-performance shoes are engineered to make you run faster with greater ease. And they work, as proven in labs and on roads around the world. Designers have struggled, however, to harness the performance-enhancing benefits of road-running supershoes for the trail. (See our full list of the best trail running shoes.)

The Challenge of Trail Supershoes

The difficulty stems from the very components that make a supershoe super: a stiff plate, combined with a tall stack of soft and bouncy midsole, creates an unstable and potentially ankle-breaking platform on the undulating and rocky terrain of trail running. To deal with the unpredictability of trails, companies have adjusted the full-length stiff plates found in road supershoes and introduced forked- or parallel-plate designs, aiming for enhanced flexibility and adaptability to diverse terrains. While they鈥檝e succeeded in creating comfortable and capable trail supershoes, some award-winning and podium-gracing, none have captured the full magic. Some shoes struggle to handle varied terrain effectively while others fail to deliver the efficiency and recovery benefits witnessed in road supershoes.

As one of 国产吃瓜黑料’s shoe testers for the last nine years, I can confidently say that no plated trail supershoe to date has delivered the same level of ride and benefits as provided by road-running counterparts. Until now.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

Weight: 9.5 oz (men), 8.1 oz (women)
Stack Height: 38鈥�30 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizing: 6-13, 14 (men鈥檚), 5-11 (women鈥檚)

Pros and Cons

鈯� Fast, smooth, and lively ride
鈯� Adaptive stability
鈯� Not great in really rocky terrain

When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside.听Learn more.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra Review

The Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is the culmination of a two-year collaborative project with Adidas professional runner Tom Evans, driven by the singular goal of creating footwear optimized for speed in the Western States Endurance Run, which Evans won in 2023, and Ruth Croft won in 2022, both wearing a prototype. The strategy was to leverage the successful elements found in their road supershoe, the Adizero Adios Pro 3, and tailor them specifically for trail running.

Having tested both the Adizero Adios Pro 3 and the Agravic Speed Ultra, I can vouch that the Adidas team was successful. During my testing, the Agravic Speed Ultra exhibited a lively, forward-propelling motion similar to that of the Adizero Adios Pro 3, with perhaps even a little more bounce.

The Agravic Speed Ultra features an ultralight, hyper-bouncy, gas-infused TPEE Lightstrike Pro midsole with embedded, curved Energy Rods (like the Adizero Adios Pro 3). In lieu of a solid plate, Adidas uses independent rods that roughly parallel the bones in the foot, and are made of Pebax in its hard plastic form as often found in track spike plates. The Agravic Speed Ultra鈥檚 trail-specific configuration features four prongs in the forefoot and two in the heel, which are splayed wider and closer to the edges than those in Adidas鈥檚 road shoes to enhance stability, and flex independently, to adapt to uneven terrain underfoot.

Deep, sculpted sidewalls surround the heel, delivering secure landings, and a narrow midfoot waist widens to a generous, flared forefoot, providing an agile and stable stance. The aggressively rockered shape from heel to toe feels pronounced and a bit odd out of the box but comes to life on the run. The shoe naturally lands midfoot first, but as your balance shifts forward, the rockered forefoot transitions your weight through the toes, giving the shoe an effortless forward roll. At nearly every pace, the shoe provided a propulsive thrust forward with each stride as my foot landed, compressed the foam in the scooped curve of the rocker鈥攖hat starts at just the right location past the ball of the foot鈥攁nd rebounded as I rolled onto my toes.

One of the biggest concerns with any plated trail running shoe is the potential for the stiff plate to induce lateral instability, torquing or bouncing the stride sideways when it becomes unbalanced. My typical local testing loop is a winding, hilly, smooth singletrack with significant off-camber footing and short sections of modestly rocky and technical footing. For such a tall shoe (38mm/30mm), I was worried all the off-camber running would be dicey; however, I found the Agravic Speed Ultra to fare considerably well. Between the spacing and flexibility of the Energy Rods and the wide forefoot, the shoe felt controlled through all terrain challenges. I did feel that the stack height started to feel tippy in extremely rocky terrain, and for truly technical trails, I would want a shoe that sits closer to the ground.

One of Cory Smith’s routes for testing the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra:

I usually approach running downhill cautiously, consistently keeping one foot on the brake, but when wearing the Agravic Speed Ultra鈥檚, I experienced a bit of a personality change. The combination of the rockered heel, cushioned midsole, and grippy outsole instilled confidence, enabling me to cast aside my typical timidity and unleash a more unrestrained approach downhill. In other words, I bombed down slopes with abandon.

The Agravic Speed Ultra absolutely shines on smoother, runnable terrain where you can put the pedal to the metal without hesitation. My pace quickened in smooth, open terrain without much additional effort. The shoe naturally wants to move fast and efficiently. The faster and harder you push it, the more energy it gives back.

The foot-hugging, breathable upper is made with thin woven abrasion-resistant mesh. Strategically placed overlays add durability and support. As is common for a racing shoe, the tongue, heel collar, and counter are razor-thin with no extra padding or support to keep weight to a minimum. While I found the midfoot lockdown to be on point, the thin, unstructured heel allowed some heel lift. This wasn鈥檛 enough to cause performance issues, but a more supportive heel would be nice on the trail.

The Agravic Speed Ultra features a thin version of Adidas鈥� signature grippy Continental rubber outsole. To enhance traction during cornering, the outsole employs 2.5mm lugs inspired by bike tire design, with slightly larger 3mm lugs on the edges for an increased bite when cornering. I found the grip on packed dirt and rock to be outstanding; however, the rather shallow lug depth felt skittish on loose kitty-litter-type footing.

While we haven鈥檛 yet tested the performance gains in the lab, my experience in the Adidas Agravic Speed Ultra鈥攁nd that of other 国产吃瓜黑料 testers, some who reported running four to five percent faster than usual with the same effort鈥攃onvinces me that it compares with carbon-plated road marathon racers and stands out as the first plated trail shoe that earns the title of supershoe. And it delivers these benefits without compromising its trail-handling creds. It impressed us enough to garner our Editors鈥� Choice award for best new trail running shoe this year.

The post This Adidas Is the Best Trail Supershoe We鈥檝e Tested appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The world was introduced to the ground-breaking, futuristic-looking Alphafly on the feet of Eliud Kipchoge when he broke the two-hour marathon barrier in October 2019. Overnight, every marathon runner wanted a pair, and they finally had the chance to buy their own in June 2020.

Two years later, Nike released its second iteration of the popular Alphafly. Seeking to fix some stability issues for non-elite runners in the original Alphafly, the newly updated Alphafly 2 received mixed reviews. While some stability issues were resolved, many die-hard Alphafly fans felt the Alphafly 2 wasn鈥檛 as bouncy as the original.

Now, only 18 months after the release of the Alphafly 2, Nike is again updating the cult classic. and we have our hands on an early pair. It’s already set a marathon world record on the feet of Kelvin Kiptum in Chicago, but how does it perform for mortals?听Here鈥檚 everything you need to know about the all-new Nike Alphafly 3 and our first impressions.

Nike Alphafly 3 Specs

MSRP: $275
Weight: 7.7 ounces (men鈥檚 10); 6.2 ounces (women鈥檚 8)
Stack Height: <40 millimeters
Drop: 8 millimeters
Release Date:

What鈥檚 New

• Continuous bottom, versus disjointed forefoot and heel on the previous two Alphafly models, for smoother heel-to-toe transitions
• The lightest Alphafly ever made, coming in 15% lighter than the Alphafly 2 and 4% lighter than the original Alphafly
• Wider last and carbon fiber plate through the midfoot for better arch support and overall stability
• Tweaked ZoomX midsole compression ratio for better performance and reduced weight
• Placement of Air Zoom units adjusted both horizontally and vertically in the midsole to enable more use and give more energy back to the runner
• Reductive midsole geometry to reduce weight and place more midsole in areas you need it and less in places you don鈥檛
• Fast Shot outsole that鈥檚 lighter while still offering superior grip and traction
• Softer and more comfortable Atomkit 3.0 upper that uses lighter Flyknit yarns and a redesigned lacing system

The Lowdown on the Update

The Alphafly was designed to be Nike鈥檚 most advanced marathon-specific shoe. However, Bret Schoolmeester, senior product director of Nike running footwear, says Nike still saw a mix of Vaporflys and Alphaflys on marathoners. For this update, Schoolmeester explains, 鈥淭he overall goal was to increase the adoption of the Alphafly 3 as our pinnacle marathon-specific shoe.鈥� To achieve this, Schoolmeester and his team identified three areas in which to improve the Alphafly: transition, comfort, and stability.

This process started with enlisting Nike鈥檚 largest testing pool ever, which included over 300 elite and non-elite runners, with a concerted effort to include more female testers. Schoolmeester explained that focusing more on female testers represents a shift they鈥檙e making听 throughout Nike running, adding, 鈥淲e’ve noticed that our female wear testers, in general, tend to be more vocal and more articulate on ways that we can be better.鈥� The result is a higher standard and, ultimately, a better product.

It鈥檚 clear just by looking at the Alphafly 3 that it鈥檚 a very different shoe than the first two versions. Instead of a disjoined forefoot and rearfoot, Nike opted for a traditional continuous sole. This was a clear signal Nike wanted to make it a better-transitioning shoe for runners who touchdown on the heel to midfoot. Additionally, Nike increased the width of the last, midsole, and carbon-fiber plate around the midfoot. These tweaks were meant to increase the transition, comfort, and stability of the ride as well as prevent irritation in the arch, which Schoolmeester acknowledged was an issue in past Alphaflys.

In terms of the midsole, you鈥檒l still find full-length ZoomX but a slightly different variation than we鈥檝e seen before from Nike. When pressed for specifics, Schoolmeester said, 鈥淚 can’t share a bunch more, but basically, how we’re treating the preform design and using compression ratios. We’ve really started to tinker to get the best possible performance out of the foam while reducing weight, similar to Vaporfly 3, but not exact.鈥�

Embedded in the tweaked ZoomX midsole is the full-length carbon fiber plate that鈥檚 wider in the midfoot, and two forefoot Air Zoom units. While the Air Zoom units are unchanged, Nike obsessed over where to place them, adjusting their position horizontally and vertically in the forefoot so that a wider range of runners, including lighter runners, could fully engage the pods of pressurized air and tightly stretched fibers to get the most energy return and restore the bounciness of the original Alphafly.

One of the most significant and noticeable changes about the Alphafly 3 is its reduced weight. My men鈥檚 size 8.5 was 12% lighter (compared to Nike鈥檚 men鈥檚 size 10, which is 15% lighter) than the Alphafly 2 and 4% lighter than the original Alphafly. Most weight savings came from the all-new Fast Shot outsole and the new Atomkit 3.0 upper with softer Flyknit yarns for added comfort.

How We Tested the Nike Alphafly 3

I received a pair of the Nike Alphafly 3 one week ago and have put 30 miles in them, including a 4-mile Turkey Trot race and one 12-mile marathon workout. I鈥檝e trained and raced in every previous Nike super shoe, including both of the previous Alphafly versions. To better compare both previous Alphafly (1 and 2) versions, I did A/B testing where I wore the Alphafly 3 on my right foot and, on separate runs, the Alphafly 1 and 2 on my left foot.

Nike Alphafly 3 Wear-Test Review

Let me start by saying that I liked the original Alphafly better than the second version. I didn鈥檛 think the Alphafly 2 was a bad shoe; it just didn鈥檛 have the bounciness the first Alphafly had, and it was slightly heavier. I found the Alphafly 2 did a great job during really long runs as my form started to stray and I needed some additional stability and rearfoot support, but as a sub-marathon shoe, it felt heavy and clunky. I鈥檇 turn to my original Alphafly or Vaporfly 3 for these distances.

I believe part of the bounciness issues around the Alphafly 2 was I didn鈥檛 feel like I was engaging the Air Zoom units鈥攎y weight was coming down midfoot and rolling onto the forefoot Air Zoom units. But in the Alphafly 3, when I locked in at a faster pace, I naturally landed under my first metatarsal and popped right back up. If you hold the sole at the same level as your eyes, you can see the outsole under the units protrudes a tiny more than the rest of the sole. I believe this helped me engage the units more.

The Alphafly 3 felt like a return to the original. I could tell I was loading and getting bounce back from each Air Zoom unit. Even my running partner commented that they sounded more like the original Alphaflys鈥攑roducing a loud slapping noise with each step.

When I slowed down and forcefully landed on my rear foot, I felt a soft landing and a moderately stable, smooth transition. The continuous bottom, plus the wider last and plate, make a noticeable difference. In both A/B testing, transitions and stability were clearly better in the Alphafly 3 than in the previous versions. It was also easy to tell there was more shoe under my arch on the foot wearing the Alphafly 3. In the first two Alphaflys, I felt a slight inward roll that caused irritation, and the Alphafly 3 felt stable and comfortable with no hot spots during my 12-mile test run

During my 4-mile Turkey Trot, they never felt too bulky or like too much shoe for such a short race. They felt smooth and perfectly capable of handling much faster than marathon pace, something I would have never said about the Alphafly 2.

While I didn鈥檛 get to test the outsole traction in wet conditions, I regularly run on a sandy beach path. Most of my shoes tend to feel slick in sandy spots, but the Alphafly 3 had surprisingly good footing.

I also felt a sizable improvement in overall comfort. It still takes a little effort to put the shoe on, but once laced in, the new Atomkit 3.0 upper felt much softer against the skin, almost to the point I could go sockless.

How do they compare with the previous Alphaflys? For me, the Alphafly 3 is without a doubt much better than the Alphafly 2. I鈥檇 put the 3 on par with the original Alphafly, but I think the 3 is certainly better for the masses. The Alphafly 3 is more comfortable and offers better stability with comparable energy return. Pinned up against the Vaporfly 3, the Alphafly 3 is a much better marathon shoe thanks to its improved stability and more comfortable fit

The Verdict on the Alphafly 3

I鈥檓 still attached to the original Alphafly, and will still be stingy, using them only for special races until there鈥檚 no life left in them. But there鈥檚 comfort in knowing that the Alphafly 3 brings the bounce back, and I don鈥檛 need to be as frugal with it. And when I鈥檓 going long and fast, I have a new favorite shoe that is both energetic and stable.

The post The Nike Alphafly 3 Review Verdict: The Best Marathon Shoe to Date appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If there were a kryptonite for runners, it would undoubtedly be heat. Even the slightest sign of warm conditions impairs running performance. analyzed runners competing in seven marathons over multiple years and found performance declined by .9 percent for every 9 degrees Fahrenheit above 50 for the top three finishers. As marathon finishing times got slower, the effects of heat became greater. For the 300th finisher in each race, performance declined on average 3.2 percent for every 9 degrees Fahrenheit above 50. looked at finishing times at the Stockholm Marathon from 1980 to 2008 and found similar results. For each 9-degree Fahrenheit increase above 50, a 3:30 marathoner would slow five minutes throughout the marathon, roughly 2.4 percent.

Of course, most runners don鈥檛 need studies to know that their running performance declines in heat and humidity. All they need to do is spend a summer training or enter a race in hot conditions to know that heat wreaks havoc on their finishing time. But most runners don鈥檛 know that performance declines can start as cool as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

This happens because of two mechanisms. First, as your core body temperature rises slightly, blood gets moved towards your skin to cool, which means less blood is available for your working muscles, which, in turn, causes you to slow. Secondly, an increasing core body temperature is correlated with an increase in the rate of perceived exertion (RPE)鈥攊n other words, it feels harder.

But what if you could reduce your core body temperature so that heat plays less of a role in performance? This is precisely what Tim Soar, founder of SOAR Running, a high-end running apparel company based in the UK, sought to do by developing a racing vest printed with graphene.

While graphene鈥攁 one-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice鈥攎ay be new to running apparel, it鈥檚 been used in sporting equipment and apparel for years due to its strength (200 times stronger than steel) and extremely light weight (five times lighter than aluminum). Inov-8, a running brand based in the Lakes District of the UK, uses graphene in its footwear outsoles to increase performance and durability.

What鈥檚 most interesting about graphene for apparel purposes is its ability to conduct heat, transferring it from one place to another. By printing graphene on a racing vest, you could theoretically take advantage of graphene鈥檚 heat conductivity to move heat away from the body, ultimately lowering the core body temperature and offsetting some of the heat-related performance declines. In fact, cycling companies have used for this very purpose for years.

The first product to come out of SOAR鈥檚 proto lab is a racing vest printed with graphene. Soar says the lab spent three years developing the vest. 鈥淭his is on the cutting edge of what we can do,鈥� he says. 鈥淭his is still something that I would consider a prototype, but at the same time, I want to let this out into the wild.鈥�

One challenge was to find the best way to print the graphene on the fabric, and what type of fabric would best complement it. Through testing, Soar settled on a 75 percent polyester and 25 percent elastane blend singlet, with 12 to 15 percent of the fabric covered with the graphic imprint. Since the graphene acts like an electric circuit, any break in the circuit reduces its ability to conduct heat. Soar used a hexagonal pattern covering the whole singlet, with only a single seam along the back of the vest. This design makes the vest鈥檚 heat-conducting performance optimal between 50 and 66.2 degrees Fahrenheit, based on a recent that found the hexagonal pattern was the best for dissipating heat on its surface along the graphene circuit versus a spider web pattern, although less effective when evaporative cooling was in use.

There are two primary mechanisms by which the body attempts to cool itself: conductive and evaporative. Conductive cooling is the transfer of heat through contact with another object. In this case, the vest. Evaporative cooling is when drying sweat becomes the primary cooling mechanism. 鈥淕raphene is most effective when you’re in your conductive cooling sweet spot,鈥� says Soar. Below 50 F, you’re already in the temperature range in which you’re likely to run a personal best Above 66.2 F, the evaporation cooling system is predominant and the graphene no longer works to conduct heat.

SOAR Graphene Race Vest Review

I received a in early October and have done several workouts in it, as well as a race. I鈥檝e been training and racing in singlets since high school (I鈥檓 in my mid-40s now) and have worn nearly every brand and style over the years.

I find SOAR鈥檚 running apparel some of the best-looking designs in the world, and the Graphene Vest is no different. The eye-catching hexagonal pattern of the graphene comes off more as an intentional design versus a functional feature. The vest has a decent amount of stretch and feels comfortable against the skin. The sizing runs extremely small as I usually wear a men鈥檚 small vest, but a men鈥檚 medium fits pretty close to the skin.

One thing I immediately noticed was how lightweight the vest felt. My men鈥檚 medium came in just under 1.4 ounces. During one training run at the upper temperature range of the vest’s sweet spot, it wasn鈥檛 like it was making me cooler, but I noticed I sweat less and felt better. However, once the temperature rose and sweating started taking over, the vest became saturated easily and felt like an average lightweight singlet.

In early November, I had the opportunity to race a 5k in the vest within its ideal window of 50 and 66.2 degrees Fahrenheit. I ended up almost effortlessly running my fastest 5k time in nearly seven years. The vest felt remarkably light and airy, like I wasn鈥檛 overheating as much as I would have at that temp and effort, and it fit comfortably, not to mention being extremely sharp-looking.

Unlike today鈥檚 super shoes, whose performance-enhancing powers have been tested in laboratory settings, it鈥檚 impossible to know if the graphene鈥檚 heat conductivity contributed to my performance, but after my race experience, I believe in the cooling benefits. And even if the cool feeling was a placebo effect, it worked. Besides the high tech, one thing is for sure: to quote Dion Sanders, “If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good.鈥� The vest’s aesthetics sure as hell made me feel good.

With a $225 price tag, this vest isn鈥檛 for everyone. But for those who can stomach the high price, you鈥檒l get a damn good-looking racing vest with some cutting-edge technology built in. For those who are hesitant because they feel they aren鈥檛 fast enough, Soar has a message for you. 鈥淚t’s not about how fast you are. It’s about your approach to the race. If you’ve trained for it, you’ve earned it.鈥�

The post Can This $225 Graphene-Printed Racing Singlet Help You Run Faster? appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.