Best Max Cushioned Running Shoes
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
See deal
Read why
Best for Fast Training
Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung
Read why
Best for Trail Running
Hoka One One Stinson 7
See deal
Read why
Best Racing Running Shoes
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3
See deal
Read why
How to pick the right running shoes
The first thing to consider when choosing a pair of running shoe is what will you be using them for.
Are you just starting out and looking for your first running shoe? You are looking for a daily trainer, or a supportive daily trainer. You’ll want Max Cushion if you are a heavier-set runner or if simply you are looking for the max comfort.
Here are other things you should know when picking a running shoe:
Comfort and Fit
Before you look into different kind of foams or technologies, make sure you pick a shoe that fits you well and it’s comfortable.
You’ll be taking approximately 6,500 steps for each 5k you run. A shoe that is too short, or too wide, or too constrictive… will make you hate running in them.
Test them in shop if you can. Wear them both, walk with them, jump in them and take a short run around the store if you can. A shoe that is not comfortable in those first 5 minutes will most likely not be the right shoe for you.
Cushioning
The sole of your running shoes will absorb some of the impact of your foot landing on the ground – this is what we call cushioning.
With each running step you experience a force approximately 3 to 5 times your bodyweight.
Shoes with a high degree of cushioning will mitigate the impact on your ankles, knees and the rest of the kinetic chain.
But cushioning also means that some of the force you exert gets absorbed by it, instead of being directly transformed into propulsion.
Responsive vs Plush Cushioning
When we talk about cushioning, you’ll often hear us use one of these terms: plush or responsive.
- Plush is the feeling you have when running on dry sand on a beach. The step is soft and cushioned, but a lot of your energy is absorbed by the sand – requiring you to put more effort into running.
- Responsive is the feeling you have when running on wet sand. The step is less cushioned, but you go faster, easier.
The choice is personal and depends on what you use the shoe for (racing? long slow training miles?). To start, we recommend shoes with a good balance between the two.
Stability and Support
Many runners, me included, have unstable ankles – hindering their ability to properly absorb the impact while running.
A running shoe can provide stability by adopting solutions such as a wider foot-base, a dual-density midsole or technologies like Brooks’ Guard Rails.
If your ankles are your weak spot, you should be looking into shoes that provide support.
Best for Daily Training
As the name suggests, your daily trainer is the shoe you use most often for your training.
The shoes we recommend in this category have balanced cushioning (not too plush, not too responsive) and can be used for a variety of runs at different paces.
We prioritised comfort, versatility, durability and value for money while making this selection.
The winner
Saucony Ride 17
€120 at Amazon IT
In short
The Saucony Ride 17 is a superb neutral daily trainer which excels in versatility. While it still doesn’t have much flair, it has excellent stability and durability, and it represents great value. Version 17 has a more modern ride than version 16 due to its upgraded PWRRUN+ midsole. It has noticeably more energy return but it comes in at a much heavier weight.
Pros
- Increased energy return from new PWWRUN+ foam
- No more midsole squeak
- Durable outsole
- Good stability
- Softer ride
Cons
- Big weight increase
- Slappy outsole
Who should buy it
If you’ve tried the Saucony Triumph and you found it too soft and unstable, the Ride 17 is a great alternative. If you want a no frills trainer similar to the Pegasus or Ghost but with a more lively ride, the Ride 17 is a good option.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a lightweight trainer for mostly speed work, the Ride 17 is not your shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Saucony absolutely smashed it out of the park with the Ride 17. In short, it's a very comfortable, versatile shoe that is at ease at a different range of speeds and that provides a touch of stability.It has an engaging, lively ride that feels more modern and exciting than most of its competitors.
Read full review
Runner up
Adidas Supernova Rise
In short
The Adidas Supernova Rise is a superb all-round daily trainer. It features support rods which stiffen its forefoot, giving it a mild rockered ride with efficient transitions. It also has a brand new Dreamstrike+ PEBA based midsole which isn’t extremely energetic but it does offer a decent amount of energy return. Its main weakness is that it has a snug forefoot which requires you to go up a half size, however, this is still the best Adidas daily trainer to be released in years.
Pros
- Balanced ride and excellent versatility
- Forefoot rocker increases efficiency
- Smooth ride transitions
- Great lockdown
- Very stable
Cons
- Narrow forefoot and toe-box
- Tongue is not gusseted
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a daily workhorse which is stable and durable, the Supernova Rise is a great option. It’s a textbook daily trainer which you can use for all types of training runs.
Who should not buy it
If you want a super light, very flexible trainer, the Supernova Rise is not for you. If you have wide feet, the Supernova Rise is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
26 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Supernova Rise is the best Adidas trainer in years and it could easily be the one shoe that you will use for all of your training.Compared to other daily trainers in the same price bracket, the Supernova Rise outperforms most of them.
Read full review
Also consider
Nike Winflo 10
€76 at Nike IT
In short
The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral daily trainer that allows you to use them for an array of activities. They are incredibly comfortable and work great for runners who are new to the sport, runners who are veterans, and individuals who just want a good-looking practical shoe.
Pros
- Versatile
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable enough for all day wear
Cons
- Not the most responsive on longer runs
- Laces could use an upgrade
Who should buy it
This shoe is for the individual who is looking for a versatile shoe that can accomplish different goals. They are great for short runs to logging mid-range distances.
Who should not buy it
They are not for the runner who is looking for a shoe that will help them during those grueling long runs. They work well for runs under 10 miles. I also wouldn’t suggest them for a racing shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
23 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Winflo 10 is an excellent choice, especially at its price - which is almost $40 less than most other daily trainers.It's a simpler shoe than the other two options we chose, but this also helps it double up as a general gym shoe or just for everyday walking.
Read full review
Best for Stability
If your ankles are unstable, there are plenty of modern supportive running shoes that will help you keep a proper running gait without constricting you or feeling too clunky. These are our favorites.
The winner
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
€90 at Amazon IT
In short
The Adrenaline 23 is a reliable stability trainer. Brooks continues to take the formula that works and tweaks it slightly to improve its stable and comfortable ride. These small changes continue to keep the Brooks Adrenaline as one of the leaders of the stability pack.
Pros
- GuideRail System
- Comfort
- Adaptive Stability
- Durability
Cons
- 12 mm drop
Who should buy it
This would be for a runner who wants a dependable long lasting stability trainer.
Who should not buy it
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
12 mm
Toe
24 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
The Adrenaline is the Goldilocks of stability running shoes. Go-To-Stability, as the name implies. It has a very standard geometry and construction, but this year version brings improvement both to the upper and the the cushioning, which became softer and provides more bounce.
Read full review
Runner up
Asics Gel Kayano 30
€119 at Amazon IT
In short
The ASICS Kayano 30 is a top-tier stability trainer. Drawing inspiration from other ASICS offerings the Kayano has been completely rebuilt for its 30th edition. The result is an adaptable and stable shoe that provides comfort mile after mile. This overhaul continues Kayano’s run as one of the leaders of the stability field.
Pros
- 4d Guidance System
- Completely Rebuilt
- Adaptive Stablity
Cons
- Midfoot tightness
Who should buy it
A runner who wants a rebuilt Eco-friendly stability trainer ready to take them through any training plan.
Who should not buy it
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.7 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
30 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
This 30th edition of the Kayano is completely changed and it's one of our favorite Kayano ever.This Kayano combines the support of a stability shoe to the soft but ever so responsive ride of a max cushion trainer.Good midfoot lockdown but still room to splay your toes - one of my personal favorite trainers of the year.
Read full review
Also consider
Hoka One One HOKA Gaviota 5
€99 at Amazon IT
In short
The HOKA ONE ONE Gaviota 5 offers top comfort and support, with an ultra-wide base and one of the brand’s highest stack heights, yet has dropped almost an ounce from previous models. This latest Gaviota offers an enhanced stability, accommodating fit, comfort, lower weight, and a more smooth transition through the footplant over the past two models.
Pros
- Wide, plush base
- Comfortable, secure fit
- Large heel loop
- More accommodating toe box
- Lighter than previous
Cons
- Moderate outsole durability
- Price
Who should buy it
Gaviota’s updated midsole supports runners who supinate (run on the outside of the foot) as well as overpronate (roll excessively in) and is especially suited for long and recovery runs; it is also a great shoe for walkers and those on their feet all day who need supportive shoes.
Who should not buy it
Though Gaviota is lighter than in the past, it is not best for speed-focused runs or runners who prefer a light, quick feel underfoot. The midsole support is helpful for non-neutral runners, this outsole is not the most durable option for those with heavy wear patterns.
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.9 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
If you are tempted by all those high-stack, cushioned max trainers available for neutral runners - then you need to try the Gaviota 5.It blends modern stability features with the soft, cushioned ride that Hoka running shoes are famous for.
Read full review
Best Max Cushioned Running Shoes
If you are a heavier runner, or if you simply prefer to run on a soft, plush base - modern max cushioned running shoes is what you are looking for.
Comfort is the name of the game for these shoes - not only in terms of cushioning but also in terms of the materials used for the uppers.
The winner
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
€162 at Amazon IT
In short
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a highly cushioned daily trainer that will feel soft and bouncy on your feet. It’s a great all-around shoe that can handle high mileage along with the occasional speedier runs.
Pros
- High cushioning
- Comfortable and bouncy ride
- Soft upper
Cons
- Not stable
Who should buy it
This is a shoe for just about any runner. If you’re looking for a daily trainer that can handle just about any kind of run than look no further.
Who should not buy it
The only person that might not like this shoe is someone who is looking for a some stability. This is a shoe that has very little stability to it so it can make you feel a little unsettled on uneven terrain or tight turns.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.2 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
10
Upper
10
Sole unit
10
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
10
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
New Balance improved on an already very popular shoe by reducing weight and working on some of the geometry (rocker, lower drop...) to improve it further.The 1080 v13 is an ideal shoe for long, slow mileage - but the improved rocker adds the capability of running faster.
Read full review
Runner up
ON Cloudeclipse
In short
The On Cloudeclipse is a good maximalist trainer which offers a very high level of protection from the ground. It has a firmer ride than most max-cushioned trainers and it’s best suited to easy or recovery runs because its Helion foam midsole doesn’t provide much energy return. While it has a very comfortable upper and ride, it doesn’t warrant its premium price over other max-cushioned trainers which are in the $160 price range.
Pros
- Smooth, highly cushioned ride
- Accommodating upper fit
- Excellent foot lockdown
- Balanced ride
Cons
- Upper’s dye bleeds onto the white laces
- Low outsole durability
- Overpriced
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a highly cushioned On trainer which has a softer ride than the Cloudmonster but a more cushioned, firmer ride than the Cloudsurfer, the Cloudeclipse is worth a try.
Who should not buy it
If you enjoy light trainers with lots of ground feel, the Cloudeclipse is not the running shoe for you. If you’re looking for a really versatile, energetic daily trainer which can handle uptempo runs, the Cloudeclipse is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
Although On shoes are famous for their monicker "running on clouds", the Cloudeclipse is the first shoe we feel really lives up to it.The Cloudeclipse is more cushioned than the Cloudsurfer and more comfortable than the Cloudmonster.It has one of the best uppers we tested this year.
Read full review
Also consider
Nike Vomero 17
€128 at Running Warehouse IT
In short
The Nike Vomero 17 is a good, premium trainer that delivers a cushioned, stable ride. It has a balanced ride suitable for most types of runs. While it isn't as exciting as some of the other premium trainers, it excels in outsole durability. Version 17 is an improvement over version 16. It has a plusher, more energetic ride with smoother transitions due to the removal of the outdated Zoom airbag.
Pros
- Smoother ride due to the removal of the airbag
- Lighter than previous version
- Extremely durable outsole
- Softer ride
Cons
- Warm upper due to the inner sleeve
- Price has increased
Who should buy it
If you’re a runner looking for a more modern, more engaging Pegasus, the Vomero 17 is the shoe for you. The ZoomX in its midsole gives it a much more exciting ride than the boring Pegasus ride.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a similar ride to the Pegasus Turbo 2, you should skip the Vomero 17 because it’s much heavier and not as fast. The Vomero 17 is more of a daily trainer than a shoe you can use for speedwork.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.6 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
Nike is definitely crushing it at the top of the range, leaving some runners wondering if their mid-range running shoes are up to par.The Vomero 17 is one of the best trainers Nike has released in a few years. For a slightly higher price than the Pegasus you get a shoe that is much more comfortable and versatile.
Read full review
Best for Fast Training
Not all your training miles are the same. If you are trying to lower your PB you should definitely add some higher-speed training sessions.
Maybe your daily trainer is not lightweight/responsive enough and you want to keep your very expensive racers (with their short durability) for race day.
Fast training shoes (or training companions as we sometimes call them) are shoes that are meant to be fast, but still durable enough for many many training miles.
The winner
Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung
In short
The Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung is a superb but heavy multi-purpose racer/trainer which can handle intervals, tempo, long runs & races. It has a very high toe-spring with an effective rocker that helps you increase your pace. Version 2 has a wider base which results in much better stability. It also has a softer forefoot with more stack height in the front but it has gained 1.4 oz (40 g) in weight.
Pros
- More stable than previous versions
- High level of speed assistance
- Slightly softer ride
- Deep cushioning
- Great grip
Cons
- Less durable outsole
- Big weight increase
- Heavily overpriced
Who should buy it
If you already own the Adidas Adios Pro 3 and you’re looking for something with more cushioning and more speed assistance, the Prime X 2 Strung is the shoe for you.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a light racer with a natural ride, the Prime X 2 Strung is a shoe that you should pass on.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
10.85 oz
Heel
50 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
7 mm
Toe
43 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
4.0
Team review
The Prime X 2 Strung is a great trainer that could also double up as a racer - if only it wasn't over the 40mm limit imposed by World Athletics.It's a shoe that begs to run fast and this version improves on the (poor) stability of the first one.
Read full review
Runner up
Saucony Kinvara Pro
€132 at Amazon IT
In short
The Kinvara Pro is an exciting new, stiff speed trainer with a carbon plate. It performs well at a variety of paces due to its stable ride and its snappy forefoot. It’s a great training companion for the Endorphin Pro and Elite if you want a similar ride at a cheaper price point. While it doesn’t have as much bounce or energy return as other speed trainers, it still has a fast, propulsive ride.
Pros
- Stiff ride, similar to the Saucony racers
- Stable ride for such a thick midsole
- Energy-saving forefoot rocker
- Comfortable upper
- Highly cushioned
Cons
- Midsole foams feel a bit flat
- Low outsole durability
- Narrow fit
Who should buy it
If you find the Endorphin Speed 3 too soft or flexible for speed training, the Kinvara Pro is a good option which delivers a more similar feel to the Saucony super shoes. It has a more stable, snappier ride.
Who should not buy it
If you prefer minimal rides with a lot of ground feel, look elsewhere because the Kinvara Pro is a firm, maximalist trainer. If you like flexible, natural rides, the Kivara Pro is also not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.4 oz
Heel
42 mm
Carbon plate
Half length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
34 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Saucony has many fast options in their lineup, especially in the Endorphin series.But the Kinvara Pro really shines as a fast trainer and it's considerably cheaper than any of the Endorphin shoes, while still getting a stiff catbon plate and an aggressive rocker.
Read full review
Also consider
Hoka One One Mach X
€174 at Amazon IT
In short
The Hoka Mach X is an excellent new speed trainer which has a versatile ride. It shares more in common with the Rocket X 2 than the Mach 5 because it has a soft, energetic ride as a result of the Profly X layer in its midsole. The Mach X fills the important role of the plated speed trainer which has been missing from the Hoka lineup.
Pros
- Good energy return
- Excellent lockdown
- Great durability
- Versatile ride
- Very stable
Cons
- Slightly too expensive
- Runs a half size small
Who should buy it
If you love the Rocket X 2 and you’re looking for a similar ride in a cheaper, more durable package, the Mach X is the perfect shoe for you.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a trainer with a similar ride to the Mach 5, the Mach X is not for you. It’s softer, stiffer and a lot heavier than the Mach 5.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.4 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
Plate in other materials
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
10
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
From Brandon's review:"As far as versatility goes, the Mach X might be the most versatile shoe I’ve tested this year. I would race a marathon in it, I can do intervals in it, tempo runs and even easy runs but it performs best at speeds of 5 minutes per km (8:03 per mile) or faster because it has good energy return and you need to reach a certain speed to feel the plate assist you."
Read full review
Best for Trail Running
It goes without saying that you shouldn't run trails in a road shoe.
Trail running shoes offer the right protection (both in the sole and in the upper) and grip to tackle unfriendly terrains.
The winner
Hoka One One Stinson 7
€132 at Amazon IT
In short
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads, grass, and gravel, the Stinson 7 goes the distance in plush comfort.
Pros
- Exceptionally stable on road and non-technical terrain
- Plush cushioning
- High stack protects from underfoot hazards
Cons
- Subpar agility in tight spaces and on rocks
- Outsole can get slippery on rock when wet
- Break-in period may be required before optimal comfort
Who should buy it
For a road-to-trail runner or non-technical trail runner or hiker looking for a stable, maximalist shoe to go the distance in comfort.
Who should not buy it
Trail runners who primarily run on technical, uneven terrain with tight rocks where a lot of agility is required or speed is the focus.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
12.7 oz
Heel
45 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
40 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
6.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
We have been seriously impressed by the versatility of the Stinson 7.Protection, durability and stability on road and trail terrain are some of the best we've tested this year and the plush experience of running in them is quite unique for a trail shoe.
Read full review
Runner up
Asics Fuji Lite 4
€118 at Amazon IT
In short
The Fuji lite 4 is a fantastic versatile trail shoe for the masses. The updates have made the shoe livelier and improved outsole traction leaves no trail unobtainable.
Pros
- Amazing traction
- Nimble and quick
- Comfortable well fitting upper
- Durable construction
Cons
- No rock plate
- Outsole has the ability to clog in muddier terrain.
Who should buy it
Trail runners wanting a versatile and quick shoe for daily mid distance mileage over all types of terrain.
Who should not buy it
Runners that like a highly or softer cushioned shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.4 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
4 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
10
Upper
10
Sole unit
10
Landing
10
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
9.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Fuji Lite is a nimble, fast but very comfortable trail running shoe that is at ease on a lot of terrains, including very technical ones.
Read full review
Also consider
Salomon Thundercross
€126 at Amazon IT
In short
The Salomon Thundercross is a blast to run in. Isn’t that such an awesome name ?! It’s a shoe that performs well on any terrain and looks amazing doing it. For the price, you can’t beat it. Salomon never seems to disappoint me!
Pros
- Great price
- Can be worn year-round
- Can be used for racing and training
- Secure fit
Cons
- Runs a little warm
Who should buy it
This shoe is a great choice if you’re looking for a very versatile trail shoe that won’t cost you close to $200 like most trail shoes. It’s a great choice for short or long distances and can be used on various terrains. If you are a runner who doesn’t have a vast amount of trail shoes and looking for just one pair, these would be it. You can race and train in them year-round.
Who should not buy it
This is a hard one. I think this shoe could be for everyone. It’s good for various distances and all types of surfaces. If I had to think of a situation I wouldn’t want them for, it would probably be a very rocky terrain. The protection is nice but there are other trail shoes out there that offer more.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
31 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
4 mm
Toe
27 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
The Thundercross is a fantastic first trail running shoe - it is priced to be accessible but it does not sacrifice the quality Salomon is known for, including their lacing system.This shoe is great for road-to-trail and has durability in spades.
Read full review
Best Racing Running Shoes
2024 is Paris Olympics - the race for the fastest running shoes will be fierce. New racers will drop in the next weeks and months and we'll be ready to test them.
For now, these are the racing running shoes we recommend!
The winner
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3
€259 at Nike IT
In short
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 is a soft, bouncy super shoe best suited to marathons. It doesn't offer as much speed assistance as other top tier carbon racers because of its gentle forefoot rocker but it's incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. Version 3 has been improved in a number of areas including stability, cushioning and weight. The forefoot is softer so it doesn't feel as fast as the Vaporfly 2 but its ride is plusher and it has more long-distance comfort.
Pros
- Increase in cushioning
- Stability improvement
- More comfortable fit
- Better breathability
- Lighter weight
Cons
- Less aggressive toe spring than competitors
- Low durability
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a super shoe with an accommodating fit and a super lightweight build, the Vaporfly 3 is an excellent choice. It has good stability and a soft, propulsive ride.
Who should not buy it
If you want a really durable super shoe that you can use for training as well as racing, the Vaporfly 3 is not for you- its ZoomX foam is extremely soft and delicate.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
6.5 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
5.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Vaporfly is not the fastest racing shoe (not even the fastest Nike racer), but it is the most comfortable and therefore most accessible.It's a lean, agile and protective racing shoe that is value for money.It is lighter, more stable and cushioned than the already hyper-popular Vaporfly 2.
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Runner up
Hoka One One Rocket X 2
€212 at Amazon IT
In short
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is a top-tier marathon racer with a soft, energetic ride. It has smooth, stable transitions and a stiff carbon plate for speed assistance. Version 2 is a vast improvement over the original version although it comes in at a higher weight and a much higher price.
Pros
- Aggressive plate placement
- Increase in energy return
- Increase in cushioning
- Relatively stable ride
Cons
- Forked plate results in less propulsion
- Weight increase over v1
- Huge price increase
Who should buy it
This racer is recommended for runners looking for a very soft super shoe which can handle long-distances. The Rocket X 2 is for runners looking for a propulsive alternative to the Vaporfly 2 & Adios Pro 3 which has more stability.
Who should not buy it
If you prefer a firm racer with a lightweight build, the Rocket X 2 is not the shoe for you. It’s not one of the lighter super shoes and its soft ride is built for long-distance comfort.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
8.3 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
The Rocket X 2 is not even comparable to the first version because it’s so much faster, softer, and more effective at speed assistance. It’s heavier than the Rocket X 1 and a lot more expensive but at least Hoka has a proper super shoe now. I think it is also fairly priced when you look at competitors in the same price range.
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Also consider
Asics Magic Speed 3
€129 at Amazon IT
In short
The ASICS Magic Speed 3 is a budget friendly workout/race day shoe that is very light and very responsive. The shoes sole purpose is to go fast!
Pros
- Pleasing pricetag
- Propulsive midsole
- Lockdown of the upper
- Lightweight
- ASICSGRIP outsole
Cons
- Rigid carbon fiber plate can cause some discomfort
Who should buy it
The ASICS Magic Speed 3 is intended for fast days, whether for a workout or on race day. It also has enough midsole to help protect your feet on longer distances.
Who should not buy it
The shoe is not intended for easy running as the rigidness of the carbon fiber plate can get a little uncomfortable, especially around your forefoot/toe area.
Also, if you are thinking the ride of the shoe is bouncy it is not. The midfoot of the shoe is also a little narrow so if you have a wider feet it can cause some stability issues.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
7.8 oz
Heel
34.5 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
7 mm
Toe
27.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Magic Speed 3 is a great racing shoe for distances between the 5k and the half marathon. It shines for 10ks.Asics combines their soft, bouncy FFBlast+ foam to a full-length carbon plate, making it a very propulsive but comfortable shoe to pick the pace in.
Read full review
Quick Questions you might have
What's the best running shoe brand?
After 15 years and 1200+ running shoes tests, we can comfortably say there is not a best running shoe brand. The competition is fierce and information is readily available: any brand not producing great running shoes would simply not have survived.
Do I need a running shoe?
While technically you could run in anything (or even barefoot), running shoes are designed for the simple but unique running gait: from heel to toe-off. Shoes for other sports might be focusing on lateral movements or change of direction, while not focusing in shock absorption and forward motion.
How much should I spend for a pair of running shoes?
A $70 running-specific shoe will be better than any non-running shoe. This said, more expensive running shoes will generally be better than cheaper options. $100 is a great place to start, with $130-$140 being the median price for great daily trainers. Racers usually cost closer to $250.
Do I need stability running shoes?
A very simple test you can do to check your ankle stability is this. Stand on one foot for 45-60 seconds. Does it come easy, or do you wobble and struggle? In this case, you might benefit from a supportive running shoe.
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