When it comes to purchasing new running shoes, there are numerous factors to consider. You want something that is comfortable, supportive, long-lasting, and, ideally, fashionable. Fortunately, hundreds of sportswear and footwear firms have spent millions of dollars designing the highest-quality, advanced-technology running shoes.
Choose from classic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics, as well as off-road experts like Merrell, Altra, and La Sportiva, and emerging brands like APL and On Running. To the track, field, road, or mountain, each contributes its own set of technical improvements, design philosophies, and elegant appearances.
Reebok
The pump is perhaps one of Reebok’s most recognizable footwear designs. You manually add air to pockets in the upper and lower tongue to increase fit and ankle stability, which was first introduced in the late 1980s.
It’s still as popular as it was when it originally came out. However, the technology has advanced even further since then, particularly since it was absorbed into the Adidas Group in 2006.
Another idea is the Zig Energy Shell. It’s a rubber band that wraps around the outsole, stretching with each stride and returning energy. FuelFoam is used in several designs for the inside shoe to provide the perfect combination of cushioning and responsiveness.
The Zig Kinetica, Instapump Fury, Forever Floatride, and Classic Leather Legacy sneakers are among the most popular Reebok models for women. The many artists and stylish combinations that combine sports and art will also appeal to fashionable women.
Adidas
Adidas, which has had a prosperous run since its founding in 1949, aspires to be the top sports corporation in the world. As a result, they have a fantastic selection of women’s running shoes.
For a comfortable, smooth run, choose the UltraBoost, SolarGlide, SolarBoost, Supernova, and Adizero models. Boost and 4D midsoles, as well as Primeknit uppers, are among the brand’s most notable footwear developments.
The energy return on each stride is improved thanks to the Boost and 4D midsoles. TPU is used to create the latter, which is molded into microscopic foam capsules. Meanwhile, the 4D is a data-driven breakthrough that prints insoles with light and oxygen using Digital Light SynthesisTM.
Both of these features improve propulsion, cushioning, and stability. Finally, the Primeknit uppers are designed not only to look good but also to perform well in terms of flexibility and movement. Adidas’ street appeal for fashion-forward runners is also boosted by collaborations with celebrities such as Kanye West, Pharell Williams, and Stella McCartney.
Nike
Nike is a global leader in sportswear design and production. Their women’s running shoes are top-of-the-line and include cutting-edge technology.
The React Infinity Run Flyknit, Air Zoom Pegasus 37, Free RN, and Revolution 5 are all popular models. The majority of the shoes have Flyknit uppers, which combine tight and loose-weave fabric to guarantee that they’re both flexible and supportive where it counts.
Atomknit, a lighter variant of Flyknit, and VaporWeave, a waterproof alternative, are two recent upper-material innovations. When it comes to soles, few innovations are as well-known as Nike Air.
It has compressed air pockets that improve mobility and absorb shock. Nike also develops its own chemistry, allowing them to create foam insoles like the React and ZoomX, which both provide high energy returns with each step.
Skechers
Skechers are about both lifestyle and performance, which is why they have a great range of casual shoes and running shoes for women. When it comes to performance, there’s plenty of technology to back you up.
The ULTRA GO™ cushioning is lightweight and responsive, while the ULTRA PILLARS™ react with each stride to give you the ultimate in rebound energy. You’ll stay cool and fresh with the breathable Air Cooled Goga Mat™ insole, and the SMART FLEX DESIGN midsole gives you the ideal amount of flexibility and movement through the whole foot.
The best women’s running shoes from the range include the GOwalk 5, GOtrail, and Gorun.
Puma
Rudi Dassler started Puma in 1948 in Germany, and his brother Adi founded Adidas a year later. Puma’s philosophy is to always strive for faster, better, and stronger performance. As a result, innovation is essential.
Puma Cell, LQDCELL, ProFoam, and PROPLATE are just a few of the notable achievements over the years. Both the Puma Cell and the LQDCELL cushioning systems use hexagonal cells for increased stability and padding.
ProFoam is a responsive midsole that is light and bouncy at the same time. Finally, PROPLATE is a built-in propulsion plate that improves take-off and stride length. Put your money towards styles like UltraRide Runner ID, Carson 2, Calibrate, Mega Energy, and LQDCELL Method to reap these benefits.
Furthermore, performance isn’t the only area where innovation can be found. First Mile yarn converts waste plastic into useable materials, resulting in a cleaner environment.
New Balance
New Balance’s Fresh Foam X and FuelCell foam are two of the brand’s most recognizable characteristics in its women’s running shoes. The lightweight Fresh Foam X midsoles will keep you feeling as fresh as a daisy on every run.
Thousands of runners’ data were used to create the optimum blend of support and flexibility, as well as lots of cushioning to prevent tired feet. The FeulCell performance EVA foam is the answer if you want to put a spring in your step and find your speed.
Based on real athlete data, the design is optimized for impact, pivot, and takeoff, and funnels energy back into each stride. The FuelCell Echo, Fresh Foam 860v11, FeulCell Prism, and Fresh Foam Roav are some of the best models the brand has to offer.
Asics
For the ultimate in all-day, all-run comfort, get yourself a pair of Asics with GEL technology. The GEL is found in a variety of popular styles, including the GEL-KAYANOTM, GEL-QUANTUMTM, and GEL-NIMBUSTM.
It’s found in pockets in the back and front feet, reducing heel striking impact and forefoot shock and allowing you to run more naturally. Asics also offers FLYTEFOAM midsoles, which are constructed of a lighter, softer, yet more robust foam that allows you to fly rather than run.
Finally, TRUSSTICTM technology, carbon-reinforced support that lies in the arch of the sole, provides all-around support. It flexes as needed, but becomes rigid when the foot rolls too far.
Asics is especially known for promoting women’s running, having sponsored legends like as Candace Hill, Deena Kastor, and Diane Nukuri.
Saucony
Saucony is a running brand. In 1898, one year after the first Boston Marathon and two years after the first Olympic Marathon, it was formed. As a result, the brand is aware of every runner’s requirements for a comfortable, high-performance shoe. As a result, each design is jam-packed with technology.
First, there’s the EVERUN cushioning, which is three times more durable and temperature-resistant than standard EVA.
Then there’s FLEXFILM, which allows for fewer layers in the upper for a lighter shoe, and ISOfit, which assures a customized fit. Finally, triFlex soles are extremely flexible, providing superior grip and a larger force distribution with each foot impact. The Peregrine, Kinvara, Ride, Omni, and Endorphin Shift are among the most popular styles with these attributes.
Under Armour
Under Armour’s HOVR cushioning technology is used in the majority of their women’s running shoes. Using a mesh web that wraps the padded core, it combines a cushioned run with optimal energy return.
Taking it a step further, designs like the HOVR Sonic and HOVR Phantom include a high-fidelity sensor that connects to the MapMyRun app to provide statistical insights into each journey.
You won’t need any other wearable devices now; all you’ll need are your shoes. The Machina, Velociti, Guardian, and Infinite are some of the other HOVR styles.
Charged Cushioning®, a similar option to HOVR technology, provides a brilliant blend of comfort and cushioning. Charged Breath, Charged Bandit, and Charged Rogue are some of the designs to look for.
Salomon
Salomon will take you on big experiences and let you connect with nature. The company was founded in 1947 in the French Alps and is dedicated to outdoor sports, craftsmanship, and modern technology.
The variety of trail running shoes is broad, and it is complemented with a concise supply of high-quality road runners, in keeping with these objectives. The Sonic 3 is one of the greatest options for road and track, while the Supercross Blast, Ultra Pro, and Speedcross are great for trails.
OptivibeTM foam reduces muscle fatigue; Internal SensiFitTM uppers nestle the foot for a secure, snug fit; and Contagrip® in trail shoes for the ultimate all-terrain grip are among the technologies employed in their designs.
There’s also a 3D Advanced ChassisTM system for motion control and energy management, as well as QuicklaceTM for one-pull tightening. While there is a lot of technology to examine, the website has a guide to help you limit down your options.
Hoka One One
Hoka One One was founded in France and is now situated in California. The brand’s first entrance into the market was with a shoe that featured an enlarged outsole to let runners move downhill more easily.
Meta-rocker geometry for enhanced gait, Pro2 Lite midsoles for smarter cushioning, bucket midsoles for security, and J-frame soles to fight overpronation have all been added since then.
The brand’s success among ultra-marathon runners, trail runners, and casual road runners stems from the great cushioning to weight ratio and visual attractiveness of each style. The Bondi 7, Clifton 6, Carbon X 2, and Speedgoat 4 are among the most popular women’s running styles.
Furthermore, several of their popular models are available in a wide fit, which is ideal for women with wider feet.
Mizuno
Since 1906, Mizuno has been producing sportswear and equipment in Japan. Unsurprisingly, the brand’s women’s running shoes feature some of the most modern and high-quality technology. Whether you’re a track runner, a road runner, or a trail runner, there’s a model to fit your demands.
The Wave is the distinctive technology for cushioning and stability, and it comes in two versions: WAVE PLATE and FOAMWAVE.
The midsole comes in four different versions: U4IC, U4ICX, AP+, and XTACTICRIDE, each with different benefits for different activities. Finally, Mizuno’s upper philosophy is called DynamotionFit. Engineered AIRmesh, Waveknit, and waterproof GORE-TEX are among the materials used in this concept.
For track and road, check out the Wave Inspire, Wave Horizon, and Wave Sky, or for trail running, the Wave Rider and Wave Daichi.
Brooks
Brooks, based in Seattle, has been in business since 1914, so they have plenty of expertise. The company, like many other sportswear companies, has put a lot of effort and money into technological developments in their running shoes.
This encompasses insoles, midsoles, uppers, and soles development. The shoe’s GuideRails® technology delivers total body support and stability.
Meanwhile, DNA LOFT adapts to your stride and provides soft cushioning to lessen the impact, while DNA AMP provides a high-energy return for each stride. Engineered Mesh adds stretch and stability to the uppers, while Fit Knit fits like a hard but comfortable pair of socks. GORE-TEX technology has been incorporated into the off-road designs to keep your feet dry no matter where you run.
Check out the best-selling Levitate 4, Adrenaline GTS 21, Revel 4, Bedlam 3, and Ghost 13 among the best-sellers.
APL
Athletic Propulsion Labs, or APL for short, is a newcomer to the sports shoe world. Former collegiate athletes Adam and Ryan Goldston launched it in Los Angeles in 2009. It’s a luxury brand that combines innovation and performance.
Despite the fact that the shapes resemble classic joggers, the use of Techloom fabric in a wide range of colors and patterns gives them a more informal athleisurewear vibe than competitors.
Each shoe is constructed from a single piece of performance fabric with various knit patterns for added intricacy and flexibility. In the midsole, you’ll find the exclusive Propelium® technology, which provides a high energy return while being more comfortable and durable than conventional EVA.
The Techloom Pro is the original jogging style that got it all started. The Techloom Wave, Bliss, Breeze, and Phantom are some of the other alternatives.
Newton Running
Newton Running is the place to go if you want a more natural running experience. They are based in Boulder, Colorado, and make performance shoes for runners of all levels and types, from 5K runners to ultra-marathoners.
The unique Action/ReactionTM Technology, which is the foundation of most styles, is one of their technologies. It provides trampoline-like cushioning to each runner, allowing for improved energy redistribution with each step.
A level platform also mimics the foot’s natural form, allowing you to run in the most natural way possible. You’ll still get full-foot cushioning through both the front and heel, unlike barefoot running, so you won’t get tired and can keep running day after day.
Shoes for beginners, training, race day, and trail running are all available. Gravity, Motion, Distance, Fusion, and BOCO AT are among the best-selling titles.
On Running
With a pair of On Running sneakers, you’ll feel like you’re running on cloud nine. The firm, which originated in the Swiss Alps, believes that every run should feature smooth landings and explosive take-offs, a philosophy that informs every stylistic and technological decision made in the development of their footwear.
The Cloud, Cloudswift, Cloudflyer, and Cloudventure are all popular styles that have trademark cloud-shaped soles.
An internal SpeedboardTM promotes forwards propulsion, while the midsoles are created with Zero-Gravity or HelionTM foam and CloudTec® to offer the softest landing possible with each step.
The uppers are made of breathable, antibacterial mesh to keep your feet cool. Then there are weatherproof variants with a 100 percent waterproof membrane and a MissiongripTM outsole with a diverse pattern to keep you in control for trail running.
La Sportiva
The Italians excel in making shoes, notably running shoes. Narciso Delladio started La Sportiva in Tesero, Italy, in 1928. Originally targeting lumberjacks and farmers, the brand has expanded to include a wide selection of mountain apparel and footwear.
Trail running shoes come in a variety of styles, including Akasha, Jackal, and Akyra for ultra-long distances, Mutant, Kaprive, and Blizzard GTX for mid-distances, and Lycan and Helios for short distances.
FriXion® soles with a sophisticated compound provide the perfect balance of durability and traction in these designs. Furthermore, the shape and construction of the sole varies depending on the terrain.
Enjoy a more enjoyable and safe downhill run owing to lugs that have been meticulously sculpted and placed to promote shock absorption and improve braking effect. Finally, depending on the cushioning and energy return requirements, the midsoles are available in three different variants.
Altra Running
There are three reasons why you should buy your next pair of running shoes from Altra Running. FootshapeTM Toe Box, Fit4HerTM Technology, and Balanced CushioningTM are the three.
The FootshapeTM Toe Box and Balanced CushioningTM both simulate barefoot running without the strain. Better impact control and a more natural foundation are provided by cushioning that is the same height throughout the foot.
Meanwhile, the toe box is bigger, allowing your feet to spread out and relax while keeping the big toe straight. When you add in the Vibram soles, you have a truly natural-feeling run. Then there’s the fact that women’s feet are biomechanically different from men’s.
Women’s shoes have a narrower heel and midfoot, as well as a higher instep and longer arch. For female runners, this is a better match. Choose from styles including Paradigm, Lone Peak, Superior, Olympus, and Torin for road, track, and trail running.
What to Consider When Choosing Running Shoes?
Tip #1: choose a running-specific shoe
Okay, this may sound self-evident, but with the wide range of athletic shoes available, it’s worth mentioning. Just because a shoe resembles a sneaker (or a running shoe resembles a sneaker) does not imply that any shoe with a rubber sole and laces will suffice.
Although you may technically run in any shoe, running-specific shoes are designed to help you run faster, more comfortably, and with less risk of injury. It’s time to upgrade your gym sneakers if you’re currently running in them.
Tip #2: make sure it fits properly
When it comes to buying a pair of running shoes, this is likely the most crucial consideration, and there are various aspects to consider. To prevent your toes from contacting the end of the shoe when running downhill, there should be roughly a thumb’s width of space between your toe and the end of the shoe.
There should also be enough room in the toe box for you to be able to wriggle each of your toes freely in the shoe without it feeling sloppy on your foot. The upper half of the shoe should wrap around your foot comfortably so that it does not slide and your heel stays in place, but not so tightly that it pinches your foot. Many shoes come in narrow, standard, and wide sizes, so choose the one that fits you best.
Tip #3: go to a running specialty store
While many major manufacturers sell their shoes in big-box retailers, you’re better off shopping for your next pair of kicks at your local running store.
You’ll not only be supporting a local business, but the staff will also have a lot more running-specific knowledge and will be far better suited to help you choose the perfect pair.
Tip #4: get the right type of shoe
It’s critical to examine what you’ll be doing with your shoe before purchasing one that will meet your needs. How many miles do you plan on putting on the shoe? Are you going to run on the roads or on the trails?
Do you want a shoe for speed practice and racing, or do you want an everyday trainer for your simple runs? Knowing the answers to these questions will come in handy when you’re speaking with the staff at your local running store about which shoes will be the greatest fit for you.
Tip #5: know your feet and stride
Are you a heel-striker or a toe-striker? Do you pronate excessively? Do you have high arches or do your feet have a flat sole? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, talk to a gait analysis specialist at your local running store.
This can help you figure out which portions of your shoe will receive the most abuse and where you might need more or less support to avoid injury.
Tip #6: test them out
Some running businesses may allow you try on new shoes and return them if they don’t fit properly, but if they don’t, you should at least try them on in the store first. Walk around in them for a few minutes or try them on on the store’s treadmill if they have one to see how they feel while jogging.
Tip #7: buy them in the evening
Because our feet swell as the day progresses, a pair you try on in the morning can be uncomfortably tight by the time you go for your evening run. Instead, after work, visit your local running store to ensure that your shoes will fit your feet at all times of the day.
Tip #8: don’t shop based on looks
With the variety of colors and styles available in running shoes these days, it’s easy to get swayed by the appearance of your next pair. We know it’s frustrating when the shoe you need doesn’t come in the color you want, but trust us when we say you’ll be glad you made the right choice when you’re halfway through your marathon training plan and your feet are still happy.
