What Are Cushioned Running Shoes?

Cushioned running shoes are designed with specialised foam in the midsole to absorb impact and provide enhanced comfort during your runs. Cushioning can vary between shoes, with some offering firmer midsoles for stability and others delivering a softer, more responsive feel. The ideal level of cushioning depends on factors such as your body weight, joint stability, running experience, and personal goals. Marathon runners often opt for maximum cushioning to ensure lasting comfort over long distances, while beginners benefit from a balanced midsole that combines support and comfort for a stable, confident stride.

What Is Offset in Running Shoes?

Offset refers to the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a running shoe. Most running shoes have an offset of 8 to 10 mm, making them suitable for a wide range of runners. Shoes with an offset of 6 mm or lower are typically designed for midfoot and forefoot runners. The idea is that a lower offset encourages you to land more on your forefoot. That’s the theory, but in reality, there are some exceptions. For example, heel strikers with a short stride and a high cadence often benefit from a lower offset as well. If you’re new to running, it’s usually best to choose shoes with a higher offset. These provide more cushioning and reduce the strain on your calf muscles and Achilles tendons, making them ideal for beginners.

The Four Categories of Running Shoes

Before choosing the best running shoes, it’s important to define your goals. If you’re just starting out, prioritise stability and comfort. If you’re aiming for faster times, we recommend tempo or race shoes. These are lighter and equipped with responsive cushioning for maximum energy return. Broadly speaking, running shoes can be divided into four main categories:

• Neutral: Designed for runners with a balanced natural running stride.
• Stability (Anti-Pronation): Ideal for runners who overpronate and need extra support.
• Tempo: Lightweight running shoes perfect for tempo runs and intervals.
• Racing: High-performance shoes featuring responsive cushioning, carbon plates, and innovative technology to help you achieve personal bests.

Neutral and stability running shoes, listed in the table below, are considered all-rounders. This means they’re suitable for both easy and fast-paced training sessions. Tempo and race shoes, on the other hand, are lightweight and designed specifically for achieving personal records.