20 Best Running Shoes for Every Type of Runner 2025

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 scored 7/10 and in our testing proved to be an exceptionally cushioned long-distance companion, with the engineered jacquard mesh keeping feet well ventilated. We found the HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole offers reliable traction across varied surfaces, making it a reassuring choice for long runs. During our review the shoe felt heavier than many competitors and can run narrow in the toe box, and the muted responsiveness means it’s better suited to slower, endurance miles than fast workouts.

Lone Peak 9+ is a trail-ready pick that scored 7.5/10 in our testing for its standout traction and roomy fit. We found the Vibram Megagrip outsole grips wet and dry surfaces confidently, and the wide toe box promotes natural foot splay for long days on the trail. During our review the moderate cushioning felt comfortable on packed singletrack but can be underwhelming on very rough terrain, and runners with narrow feet may notice a less secure midfoot fit.

The Brooks Caldera 8 scored 6.5/10 but in our testing it shined for long trail days, thanks to nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole that offers plush, responsive cushioning. We found the TrailTack Green rubber outsole delivers dependable traction on wet and dry trails and the breathable, snag-resistant mesh upper stands up to abrasion. During our review the heel counter felt stiffer than before and the large toe bumper plus short laces made it harder to achieve a locked-in fit initially.

The Lone Peak 9 (6.5/10) is a trail-focused pick that rewards wide-footed hikers with a roomy toe box for natural splay and a lightweight build that makes long thru-hikes and ultralight treks feel easier. In our testing the quick-drying ripstop mesh handled mud and humid conditions well and the moderate cushioning struck a comfortable balance for long days without feeling bulky. During our review we did find the heel lock lacked security on steep descents and traction faltered on wet snow and ice, so hikers who tackle slick conditions or have narrow feet may want a more secure option.

The Nike Alphafly 3 (8/10) remains a go-to for serious racers thanks to exceptional energy return from ZoomX foam and a carbon fiber plate, and during our review the AtomKnit upper showed lightweight breathability and comfort across race distances. We found the Alphafly delivers blistering efficiency, but the narrow fit can be restrictive for wider feet and the nearly $295 price tags keeps it squarely in the performance-focused category. Great for race day, less so as an everyday trainer.

PUMA’s FAST-R NITRO Elite 3 scored 7/10 and in our testing impressed with lively energy return that can sharpen your pace sessions. We found the lightweight build and breathable upper reduce fatigue on longer efforts, but during our review durability showed signs of concern with visible wear after limited miles. The aggressive rocker and racing orientation may not suit every stride, and at around $300 you’re paying a premium for performance that’s occasionally traded off against longevity.

The Guide 18 (8/10) is a stability-focused option that balances cushioning and a steady platform, and in our testing the PWRRUN foam absorbed impact without feeling overly soft. We found the engineered mesh keeps feet cool and the wide platform plus low heel‑to‑toe drop promotes a natural, stable stride, but exposed outsole foam raises durability questions and traction on wet roads was limited. For runners seeking gentle guidance rather than aggressive correction, this is a strong, comfortable choice.

If you need dependable stability, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 (7.5/10) is a go-to — in our testing the GuideRails system delivered noticeable support without feeling restrictive. We found the engineered mesh upper breathable and the build durable for high mileage, which makes it a solid daily trainer for overpronators. During our review the cushioning leaned firmer than some runners prefer, the 12mm drop is fairly high, and the slightly low toe box height could feel tight for those needing extra room.

The ASICS GT-2000 v13 scored 7/10 and in our testing balanced cushioning with structured stability thanks to FF BLAST™ PLUS foam and the 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™. We found the jacquard mesh upper holds the foot snugly and provides a comfortable, supportive foothold for daily mileage. During our review some testers noted a narrow forefoot and a less padded tongue compared with prior models, and the firm heel counter may feel unforgiving for runners who prefer a softer rearfoot feel.

If you prioritize plush cushioning, the Cloudmonster 2 (7.5/10) is a compelling pick — in our testing the maximal midsole soaked up impact and delivered noticeable energy return on long runs. We found the heavier overall weight and a roomier upper make it less versatile than the original, so narrow-footed runners may need to size down or try before buying. During our review the shoe proved durable with reliable traction, but its lack of breathability and premium $170 price temper its all-around appeal.

The Ride 18 (7/10) is a reliable daily trainer if you value a softer, springy feel thanks to the reformulated PWRRUN+ foam — we found it lighter and more responsive on steady runs. During our review the engineered mesh upper offered excellent breathability and stretch for a comfortable fit, but limited rubber coverage hurt wet-surface traction and some testers noticed wear around 50 miles, so durability is a concern for high-mileage runners.

The New Balance 880 v15 (7.5/10) impressed our team with top-level upper comfort and Fresh Foam X cushioning that protects on long days, making it a solid daily trainer. In our testing the secure, structured upper prevented hot spots, yet the shoe felt a touch heavy for speed work and showed reduced grip on wet surfaces. If you want plush protection and durability for steady miles, the 880 delivers — just temper expectations for fast tempo sessions or slick roads.

The Clifton 10 (6.5/10) remains a plush, comfortable daily trainer with maximal cushioning and a breathable jacquard-knit upper that our experience shows keeps feet cool on easy miles. During our review the shoe delivered dependable traction on wet pavement and city sidewalks, but testers noticed a heavier feel than past Cliftons, a smaller toe box that can require breaking in, and a ride that’s slightly muted for runners seeking lively responsiveness.

The Bondi 9 (7/10) is for runners who want cloud-like cushioning and durable construction — our experience shows the enhanced midsole provides a plush, resilient ride for daily training. The structured knit upper improved fit and breathability, and the Durabrasion rubber boosts longevity in high-wear zones, but some testers found the shoe heavier than comparable trainers and the toe box initially snug, while the padded upper can feel thick in hot weather.

The Novablast 5 (6.5/10) gives you a bouncy, cushioned ride thanks to the FF BLAST MAX midsole and a breathable jacquard mesh upper that we found comfortable on medium-distances. However, our testing highlighted traction shortfalls on wet or slippery surfaces and a softer midsole that won’t satisfy runners wanting a firmer, more responsive platform. The wider fit suits broad-footed runners but may feel loose for narrow feet, so try them on if you prefer a roomy ride.

The Novablast 5 is a versatile daily trainer that scored 6.5/10 and in our testing delivered a smooth, cushioned ride thanks to its high stack height. We found the breathable engineered jacquard mesh keeps feet cool on steady runs, making it an easy go-to for recovery days. During our review the softer foam reduced responsiveness for faster workouts, the tongue tended to slide and traction on wet surfaces was subpar, so it’s best for easy to moderate paces.

The Nike Pegasus 41 scored a solid 8/10 and in our testing proved to be a dependable everyday shoe thanks to ReactX foam that boosts energy return about 13% over older React. We found the engineered mesh upper lighter and more breathable while the Dynamic Midfoot Fit system locks the foot in comfortably for steady runs. During our review the forefoot volume felt a bit low for some, the shoe carries extra weight versus rivals, and it isn’t the best choice for faster tempo sessions.

The Brooks Glycerin 22 earned a 7.5/10 and in our testing delivers a plush, responsive ride thanks to nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned cushioning and a broad platform that stabilizes transitions. We found the engineered double jacquard knit upper adapts well to foot movement and offers a comfortable, flexible fit. During our review the shoe’s weight makes it feel lumbering for speed work, the toe box tapers quickly which can bother wider feet, and outsole traction was lacking on slippery surfaces.

The Brooks Ghost 17 (7.5/10) is a reliable daily trainer that blends DNA Loft v3 foam for balanced cushioning with a double jacquard air mesh upper that keeps runs comfortable and well-ventilated. We found the outsole provides dependable traction on pavement and light gravel, making it a go-to for steady road miles and recovery runs. During our review the shoe ran slightly heavier than previous models and some testers noted a narrower toe box, so wider-footed runners should try them on; its conservative design also won’t impress those chasing cutting-edge looks.

The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris earned its high 9.5/10 rating by pairing an exceptionally lightweight build with lively FF Turbo Plus foam, and in our testing it translated to real speed gains over varying distances. We found the MOTIONWRAP 2.0 upper kept breathability high, but the narrow fit and occasional instability through tight turns mean it’s best for runners who match its shape and racing focus. If you want a race-day rocket with responsiveness and traction, this is a top contender.

The Metaspeed SP 'Paris' (8.5/10) blends FF Turbo+ responsiveness with a breathable engineered mesh and an ASICSGRIP outsole that gave us excellent traction even on damp surfaces. In our testing the shoe felt fast and energetic, but the narrow last and relatively firm midsole can feel unforgiving on longer recovery runs, and the premium price is steep for some budgets. If you match its fit and want race-ready responsiveness with top-tier grip, it’s a strong, performance-focused pick.

The Endorphin Elite 2 earned an 8.5/10 and stands out in our testing for race-day speed thanks to IncrediRUN foam’s exceptional energy return. We found the breathable knit-mesh upper and featherlight construction help you feel fast and ventilated, but the very soft midsole can introduce instability through sharp turns or uneven roads. During our review we also noted durability issues — exposed foam and fraying eyelets — and the outsole may struggle for grip on very wet surfaces.