Top 10
The 10 Best Running Shoes
Looking for the best running shoes? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marathon runner, choosing the right shoes is essential. But which running shoes are best for your needs? A beginner needs different support than someone tackling long-distance races, and your foot type and stride also play a crucial role. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a top 10 list of the best running shoes for 2025. This includes a top 5 for neutral runners and a top 5 for those who need running shoes for overpronation. Plus, we’ll guide you in finding the perfect pair to match your goals and running style.
3Benefits of a Good Pair of Running Shoes
Comfort and Support
Running shoes are designed with a lightweight, breathable upper, often made of mesh material. This reduces heat buildup and minimizes the risk of blisters, ensuring your feet stay comfortable even on long runs. Reinforced heel caps and targeted ankle support provide extra stability, helping to prevent injuries and keep your stride steady.
Optimal Cushioning and Shock Absorption
Every step you take while running generates impact forces up to three times your body weight. Running shoes are equipped with advanced midsole cushioning to absorb these shocks effectively, reducing stress on your legs and joints. Depending on your preference and running surface, you can opt for high-cushioned shoes for maximum impact protection or lighter cushioning for a more responsive feel.
Enhanced Performance and Protection
The right running shoes not only improve your performance but also offer essential protection. Specialized designs cater to your gait, with neutral shoes for natural strides and stability shoes for runners who overpronate. These shoes reduce the risk of rolling your ankles and other common injuries, ensuring a smoother and safer run. Plus, they’re built for better energy return, helping you run faster and farther with less effort.
Daan Glorie – Running Product Expert
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.
ASICS
Neutral
Gel-Nimbus
Gel-Cumulus
Stability
GT 2000
Kayano
Tempo
Magic Speed
Noosa Tri
Racing
Metaspeed Sky Paris
Metaspeed Edge Paris
Brooks
Neutral
Ghost
Glycerin
Stability
Adrenaline GTS
Glycerin GTS
Tempo
Hyperion Tempo
Hyperion Max
Racing
Hyperion Elite
Saucony
Neutral
Ride
Triumph
Stability
Guide
Tempus
Tempo
Kinvara (Pro)
Endorphin Speed
Wettkampf
Endorphin Elite
Endorphin Pro
HOKA
Neutral
Clifton
Bondi
Stability
Arahi
Gaviota
Tempo
Mach
Mach X
Racing
Rocket X
Cielo X
Nike
Neutral
Pegasus
Vomero
Stability
Structure
Invincible
Tempo
Pegasus Turbo
Streakfly
Racing
Vaporfly
Alphafly
Salomon
Neutral
Aero Blaze
Aero Glide
Stability
–
Tempo
Aero Volt
Racing
Phantasm
Karhu
Neutral
Fusion
Stability
Ikoni
Synchron
Tempo
–
Racing
–
Mizuno
Neutral
Wave Rider
Wave Sky
Stability
Wave Inspire
Wave Horizon
Tempo
Rebellion Flash
Rebellion Sonic
Racing
Rebellion Pro
adidas
Neutral
Supernova Rise
Supernova Stride
Stability
Supernova Solution
Tempo
Adizero Boston
Adizero SL
Racing
Takumi Sen
Adios Pro
On
Neutral
Cloudsurfer
Cloudmonster
Stability
Cloudrunner
Cloudflyer
Tempo
Cloudswift
Racing
Cloudboom Echo
New Balance
Neutral
880
1080
Stability
860
Vongo
Tempo
Rebel
SC Pacer
Racing
SC Elite
SC Trainer
The 10 Best Running Shoes
Looking for the best running shoes? We’ve handpicked our top 10 favourites to help you get started. The models listed below are not ranked in any particular order—but each includes key specs like drop and weight to guide your decision. When choosing the perfect pair, these features are worth considering to match your goals and running style.
The 5 Best Neutral Running Shoes
ASICS Nimbus
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus is a reliable and versatile neutral running shoe that has long been a favourite among long-distance runners. Renowned for its luxurious cushioning and premium comfort, the Nimbus delivers a smooth and enjoyable running experience. To enhance comfort, the shoe features GEL cushioning in the heel, providing superior shock absorption during landings. Thanks to its exceptional cushioning and stability, the Nimbus is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced runners alike.
Drop: 8 mm Weight: Approx. 262 g (women) / 304 g (men)
Brooks Ghost
The Brooks Ghost is a go-to running shoe for neutral runners – and with good reason. This trusted favourite just keeps getting better. The new version comes with a range of updates, focusing on a softer feel thanks to a reworked midsole and refined upper. With a 12 mm drop and plush heel cushioning, it’s an ideal choice for heel strikers looking for smooth, supported miles.
Drop: 12 mm Weight: approx. 255 g (Women) / 286 g (Men)
Nike Pegasus
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus is a neutral all-round running shoe – and one of Nike’s most iconic models. Trusted by runners for decades, the Pegasus is ideal for daily training runs and longer endurance sessions. If you’re looking for a lightweight shoe with a responsive feel, the Pegasus is a reliable choice for every stride.
Drop: 10 mm Weight: approx. 242 g (Women) / 309 g (Men)
HOKA Clifton
The HOKA Clifton is a neutral running shoe that delivers lightweight comfort with a soft, cushioned ride. Lighter and plusher than its predecessor, the Clifton continues its legacy as the go-to max-cushion shoe for both beginners and experienced runners. With a low 5 mm drop, it’s particularly suited to midfoot and forefoot strikers seeking smooth, natural transitions.
Drop: 5 mm Weight: approx. 204 g (Women) / 248 g (Men)
New Balance 880
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 is a neutral all-round running shoe – ideal for both short and long-distance runs. As part of the popular Fresh Foam family, this model is known for its soft cushioning and comfortable feel. Thanks to an update in the Fresh Foam X midsole, the 880 is now lighter and more durable than its predecessor. Whether you’re hitting the track or the road, this shoe is ready for any training session.
Drop: 6 mm Weight: approx. 238 g (Women) / 300 g (Men)
The 5 Best Stability Running Shoes for Overpronators
ASICS Kayano
The ASICS GEL-Kayano is your go-to stability shoe when you need extra support and cushioning for every stride. Whether you’re heading out for a relaxed 5K or a long-distance endurance run, this versatile model has your back. Its smooth ride and structured feel make it a favourite for both beginners and seasoned runners looking for dependable support.
Drop: 10 mm Weight: approx. 270 g Women / 299 g Men
adidas Supernova Solution
The adidas Supernova Solution is a stability running shoe designed to keep overpronating runners steady and supported—without compromising on comfort. Featuring the lightweight Dreamstrike+ midsole, it delivers smooth cushioning with just the right energy return. Foam-based EnergyRods ensure a natural heel-to-toe transition while adding a touch of stability for confident strides. Experience all-round performance in every run.
Drop: 10 mm Weight: approx. 240 g Women / 289 g Men
Brooks Adrenaline GTS
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is a go-to stability running shoe for overpronators, trusted by runners worldwide for its plush step-in feel and reliable support. What makes this shoe stand out is its smart GuideRails® technology, which offers support only when needed—ideal for runners who prefer freedom with subtle correction. With a higher drop and generous cushioning at the heel, it’s especially suited to heel strikers, whether you’re just starting out or training for your next PB.
Drop: 12 mm Weight: approx. 255 g Women / 289 g Men
Saucony Guide
Whether you’re training for a marathon or heading out for an easy jog, the Saucony Guide is your trusted stability running shoe for daily mileage. Designed for runners who overpronate, it offers the perfect balance between cushioning and support – ideal for short and long runs alike. Thanks to its updated comfort and responsive feel, it’s a great pick for beginners and seasoned runners looking to make every stride count.
Drop: 6 mm Weight: approx. 232 g Women
Mizuno Wave Inspire
Choose the Mizuno Wave Inspire and experience the ideal balance of comfort and performance in a reliable stability running shoe. Whether you’re going for a steady 5K or gearing up for a long-distance run, this all-rounder supports every pace. Designed for overpronators, the Inspire offers consistent support and responsive cushioning—making it a versatile and dependable choice for daily training.
Drop: 12 mm Weight: approx. 245 g Women / 295 g Men
Which Running Shoe Is Right for You?
Start by defining your goal and discovering what kind of runner you are. Use our online Shoe Advisor for a tailored recommendation. With just a few details and (stability) tests, we match you to the perfect running shoes based on your foot profile and our extensive running data.
Still have questions? Our product experts are ready to help—get in touch with our customer service team for personalised advice.