Best Road Running Shoes for Men of 2026
Men’s Running Shoes: daily trainers, cushioned, long distance, lightweight, and active recovery
March 2nd, 2026 with 8 new models and a new winner for best gravel shoes
Home → Gear Reviews → Running
To go on a run, you don’t need much other than shoes and some clothes — that’s one of the things we love most about running. Most people already own gym shorts and a t-shirt, so the only real barrier to entry is a solid pair of running shoes. The right road running shoes can make everything from short daily miles to long training efforts feel smoother, more comfortable, and more efficient.
I’ve been running since middle school, and while I’ve drifted away from the sport occasionally, I always come back to this simple and meditative form of exercise and adventure. Over the years, I’ve worn countless pairs of running shoes and learned what separates a truly great shoe from one that’s just OK for short runs. For this guide, we tested more than 30 road running shoes, wearing them for months on country roads, city streets, and paved paths across the Southwest and Colorado while training for an ultramarathon.
After putting hundreds of hours and thousands of miles on the pavement, we evaluated each shoe based on cushioning, responsiveness, comfort over long distances, durability, fit, and overall versatility for different types of runs.
We aimed to identify the best options for the most common running styles and types of bodies while also breaking down the key factors that go into choosing a great road shoe, since everyone’s body and stride are different. Everyone’s body is different, and all the shoes we tested here are great. We tried our best to pick the best road shoes for most people.
Top Pick: The HOKA Mach 6 earns our Best Overall award as our top crowd-pleaser. It stood out for its energetic cushioning, lightweight feel, smooth turnover, and versatility across daily training runs and faster efforts, making it a dependable choice for everything from first 5K training plans to high-mileage marathon prep.
Whether you’re training for your first 5K or are a seasoned marathon runner, cross-training athlete, or simply want to stay in shape by joining a running club, this guide is intended to help you on your journey as a runner.
Looking for women's? See our Best Women's Road Running Shoes guide
Looking for trail runners? See our Best Men's Trail Running Shoes guide
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Comparison table
| ROAD SHOE | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | CUSHION | DROP | STACK | SIZES | BEST USE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Mach 6 | Best overall Read why |
$140 | 1 lb, 0.4 oz | Maximum | 5 mm | 37/ 32 mm | 7 - 14 (reg, wide) | Speed workouts, racing, daily trainer |
| Saucony Ride 18 | Best affordable Read why |
$145 | 1 lb, 3.8 oz | Maximum | 8 mm | 35/ 27 mm | 7 - 15 (reg, wide) | Daily trainer, longer runs |
| Nike Pegasus 41 | Best for beginners Read why |
$145 | 1 lb, 4.9 oz | Maximum | 10 mm | 37/ 27 mm | 6 - 18 (reg, extra wide) | Daily trainer, beginners |
| On Cloudsurfer 2 | Best for long distance Read why |
$160 | 1 lb, 1.4 oz | Maximum | 9 mm | 37/ 28 mm | 7 - 14 (reg) | Daily trainer, active recovery, beginners |
| HOKA Clifton 10 | Best cushioned Read why |
$155 | 1 lb, 3.2 oz | Maximum | 8 mm | 41/ 33 mm | 7 - 16 (reg, wide) | Active recovery, daily trainer, beginners |
The winners
Best overall road running shoes for men: HOKA Mach 6
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 0.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Very lightweight, affordable, responsive midsole, supportive upper, breathable, versatile, comfortable
What we didn’t like: May be overkill for casual runners
The HOKA Mach 6 weighs less than most running shoes but is still very comfortable, cushioned, and versatile. Many lightweight trainers feel minimal on your feet, and while the Mach 6 doesn’t feel like you’re walking on a cloud, the 37-32 mm stack height still offers plenty of cushion for most runners to use as a daily trainer. This shoe is light enough for speed work but comfortable and cushioned enough for longer runs. And it’s surprisingly affordable.
We tested the Mach 6 in southern Arizona and around Moab, Utah. These shoes are super versatile. They are our favorite for speedy runs, but what surprised us most about these shoes is their performance on every run. We initially saw the weight of these shoes (which at 16.4 oz for the pair is less than every other running shoe we tested) and thought, “This is a fast shoe for speed workouts,” but it’s good for much more than that.
Whether you’re on a short recovery run or going a marathon distance, these remain comfortable and help propel you every step. They don’t weigh you down, and the supercritical EVA foam midsole is super springy to keep you moving forward.
For more information, read our in-depth review of the Hoka Mach 6 road running shoes.
HOKA Mach 6
Supercritical EVA, which is made by injecting nitrogen into the midsole foam during manufacturing, is the type of foam commonly used in modern “super shoes” that often cost upwards of $200. But surprisingly, the Mach 6 is quite affordable. These are tied for the least expensive shoes we tested with the Saucony Ride and Nike Pegasus. So, even though they’re a fast and light shoe, they don’t cost as much as other lightweight trainers and have a fantastic, well-cushioned midsole. This means you can wear these shoes for most runs without feeling like you’re wasting your expensive fast shoes.
The Mach 6’s upper is more breathable and features a more streamlined fit than previous versions. It has a secure fitting heel, and the tongue attaches to an elastic strap that wraps around your midfoot, creating a very secure fitting upper.
The outsole rubber is grippy enough for pavement with the occasional gravel section. As you’d expect from a lightweight shoe, it has relatively large sections of exposed midsole foam—on the heel and through the center of the outsole, extending to near the toe. But compared to many other road running shoes, they don’t have as much exposed midsole foam, so they’re more durable.
Some people have found the Mach 6 slightly narrow in the midfoot and toe box. Our main tester, Sam, has wider than average feet, and he didn’t find these shoes too narrow, even on longer runs. If you have really wide feet, you can get these in wide sizing, which you should try on before buying the standard width.
If you’re looking for a do-it-all lightweight running shoe that’s fast, cushioned, and doesn’t cost a fortune, we recommend the Mach 6. It’s also the winner of Best Lightweight Road Running Shoes in our Best Women’s Road Running Shoes guide.
Best affordable road running shoes for men: Saucony Ride 18
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.8 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, well-cushioned, responsive midsole, affordable
What we didn’t like: Not as bouncy as some shoes, heavier
The Saucony Ride 18 is less expensive than most other road running shoes we tested, but it performs as well or better than most, making it an obvious choice for the best affordable running shoe. These shoes are well-cushioned, responsive, and comfortable—everything you want in a daily trainer. They also have a classic look that doesn’t stand out like some modern running shoes while performing as well as modern high-tech (and high-tech-looking) running shoes. They’re also more durable than many running shoes, making them an ideal shoe to wear daily.
We tested the Saucony Ride 18 while running in southern Arizona this winter on everything from short 3-mile spins around the neighborhood to 20-mile long runs and uptempo workouts. Treeline editor, Becca Downs, has worn the women’s version of the Saucony Ride for years while training as a competitive runner. And she achieved many individual successes while wearing the always-reliable Ride and also dubbed the Rides the Best Affordable road running shoe option.
Read our in-depth review of the Saucony Ride 18 road running shoes for more on these great shoes.
Saucony Ride 18
The Ride 18’s most notable improvement over previous versions is the brand’s updated PWRRUN Plus midsole, which is more responsive and comfortable than previous models. While PWRRUN Plus remains relatively firm compared to other shoes, it provides excellent energy return. The firmer foam is more durable than springier foams, which lose their bounce faster. It also has a soft insole, and this thicker cushioned insole combined with the firmer midsole foam feels plush while still providing a solid platform to push off as you stride.
The outsole has plenty of grippy rubber without too much exposed midsole foam. This outsole design, combined with the firmer midsole material, makes for an even more durable running shoe, which we want in a daily trainer.
It has an engineered mesh upper that’s very breathable. Like the On Cloudeclipse, the laces pass through small cord loops, which equalizes the lacing tightness to hug your foot comfortably. It has a cushioned, gusseted tongue that attaches to the midsole with wide elastic bands that wrap around your arch and midfoot to create a secure fit. The padded heel cup hugs the heel nicely as well.
These aren’t the lightest shoes, nor are they the flashiest. But that’s not what they try to be. These are workhorse shoes that you can reliably lace up daily for your runs, and they aren’t expensive when you need a new pair.
If you’re looking for an affordable running shoe for daily use that’s comfortable, durable, and reliable, the Ride 18 is a great option.
Best road running shoes for beginners: Nike Pegasus 41
Available sizes: 6 - 18 (reg, extra wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 4.9 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Breathable upper, comfortable foam cushioning, versatile, good value
What we didn’t like: Not the lightest
Nike's Pegasus line has long been a staple for runners looking for a reliable, all-purpose running shoe. The Pegasus 41 is similar to previous Pegasus models, but it now has a full-length ReactX foam midsole with Nike’s Air Zoom units in both the heel and forefoot. We like this shoe for daily trainers at any length of run. It also costs less than most other running shoes, which we love for beginners (and everyone else).
We tested the Pegasus 41 while running roads and paved paths in Moab, Utah, and southern Arizona. Thanks to the Air Zoom units in the heel and forefoot, these shoes feel bouncy. And while they weigh over 10 ounces per shoe, they feel lighter for some reason. The result is that they feel quick and sporty, like a classic lightweight running shoe.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the Nike Pegasus 41.
Nike Pegasus 41
The Pegasus is a good choice for the runner who wants more road feel than other daily trainers. It doesn’t have as much cushion as many modern max cushion running shoes like the HOKA Bondi, Altra Via Olympus, or On Cloudeclipse, but it feels lighter and more nimble than those shoes. The Pegasus is also more flexible than those shoes and feels more like a traditional running shoe.
The outsole rubber is durable and provides good traction. The rubber covers almost the entire outsole, and only one section of exposed midsole foam stretches from the heel to the interior of the arch. The lacing system secures your foot down. The laces attach to the breathable mesh upper, and an internal midfoot bootie wraps around your entire foot.
If you’re looking for a more affordable running shoe that offers a more traditional ride, the Pegasus 41 is worth considering.
Best road running shoes for long distances: On Cloudsurfer 2
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 1.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 9 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, lightweight, responsive midsole, well-cushioned
What we didn’t like: The large channel of exposed midsole underfoot
The On Cloudsurfer 2 is comfortable over any distance, but comfort is super important when running long distances. These feature On’s proprietary Helion superfoam and CloudTec midsole technology, making the shoes pillowy-soft but still responsive when you push off. And even though they’re very cushioned, they’re still incredibly light.
We tested the Cloudsurfer 2 in Tucson, Arizona, and the surrounding southwest region during the winter and spring. We wore them on runs ranging from 5 miles to 20 miles, and the smooth ride and springy midsole made us feel like we were running on a cloud (pun intended).
At 17.4 oz for the pair, these shoes are also very light, which makes keeping your feet moving over long distances a little easier. They have 9 mm drop, which is ideal for heel strikers who want tons of padding with each footfall. But a higher drop also positions you in a forward leaning position, as if you’re going downhill, so it makes everyone feel like they’re being pushed forward.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the On Cloudsurfer 2.
On Cloudsurfer 2
These shoes aren't equipped with On's Speedboard, so if you're looking for a stiff and fast shoe from On, we recommend the Cloudeclipse, which has the Speedboard. However, the lack of this feature in the Cloudsurfer makes it less expensive and more flexible. The increased flexibility of the Cloudsurfer makes it more comfortable for long runs than the Cloudeclipse. Also, the Cloudsurfers are lighter than the Cloudeclipse, so you can still run very fast in them.
The biggest downside of these shoes is the outsole. It has a large groove running down the center, just big enough for rocks to get jammed in. The Cloudsurfers are grippy enough for gravel and casual trails, but that rock-grabbing groove makes us want to avoid gravel surfaces. This isn’t a dealbreaker, especially since it’s a road running shoe, but it is worth noting.
If you’re looking for a supportive, plush, and springy running shoe for long distances, you should check out the Cloudsurfer 2.
Best cushioned road running shoes: HOKA Clifton 10
Available sizes: 7 - 16 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.2 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, feels efficient, well-cushioned, lightweight, comes in wide and standard sizes
What we didn’t like: Exposed midsole is a durability concern
The HOKA Clifton 10 balances high cushion with a lightweight and fast platform for an all-around stellar shoe. We like this shoe because it is very cushioned but doesn’t feel like you’re dragging a pound of foam on each foot. These are great for everyday running, walking, and active recovery. But they’re also light enough for faster runs. We tested the Clifton 10 during the spring in southern Arizona, on runs ranging from quick 5-mile spins to longer 15 to 20-mile outings.
Learn more in our in-depth review of Hoka Clifton 10.
HOKA Clifton 10
We’ve loved the Clifton line for years and have reviewed the Clifton 8 and Clifton 9. The biggest difference between previous models and the Clifton 10 is that this new version has three more millimeters of drop. The Clifton 10 has 41 mm of stack in the heel and 33 mm in the forefoot. It still has the Meta-Rocker midsole, but the compression-molded EVA on version 10 feels firmer than previous Clifton models. This makes the shoes feel faster. We never felt like they were holding us back when pushing the pace with the newest Cliftons. They’re not as fast as the HOKA Mach 6 or Salomon Aero Glide 3, but these new Cliftons feel faster than we expected.
Right out of the box, they’re very comfortable. The upper is made with an engineered knit mesh material. Compared to the Clifton 9, the upper on the Clifton 10 has been tweaked and feels slightly stretchier. It’s not stretchy as in elastic, but it has enough give to make the shoe feel comfortable even when you lace it tight. It also has a well-padded tongue that cushions the top of your foot when you cinch the laces down.
The outsole is grippy enough for pavement, gravel, and smooth dirt trails. It has a large amount of exposed midsole foam, though. While cutting back on outsole rubber saves weight, it does make for a less durable shoe. Because of this, we try to keep ourselves on pavement and smooth surfaces as much as possible. Also, while the fit through the midfoot felt fine for our main tester, Sam, who has wider than average but not extremely wide feet, we think some people might find it on the narrow side. There are wide and Xtra-wide versions of the Clifton 10, though, which solves the issue.
The Clifton series has long been one of our favorites and is wildly popular among runners. It’s also a favorite for walking, among nurses, and with others who spend long days on their feet. This shoe is a versatile daily trainer you can also wear for your next marathon.
Best lightweight daily trainer: Salomon Aero Glide 3
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 1.6 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Feels cruisy, well-cushioned, grippy outsole, fits well, comfortable upper
What we didn’t like: Narrower fit
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a well-cushioned running shoe for daily training that feels quick and bouncy. These shoes are incredibly light for a max-cushion shoe. They weigh slightly less than the HOKA Clifton 10 but have more stack height.
We tested these shoes on speedy interval runs and hill workouts in Tucson and across southern Arizona. They’re light enough that we practically forgot we were wearing them as we ran up a steep incline during a hill workout. And on the downhill, they felt grippy so we didn’t feel out of control.
Salomon Aero Glide 3
The Aero Glide 3 is so light due to Salomon’s proprietary Energy Foam Evo midsole, a supercritical EVA, which gives lots of cushion and good energy return without weighing a lot. There is just enough outsole material, made with Salomon’s Contragrip rubber, to grip the road. The rubber runs along the outside of the tread and leaves a large section of exposed midsole in the middle. This undoubtedly saves weight, but it is not the most durable design.
The Aero Glide 3 has a very comfortable upper with what Salomon calls a seamless design. While multiple types of materials are fused together, they don’t use stitches. This eliminates some risk of hotspots and chafing, resulting in a super comfortable shoe.
Salomon shoes tend to run narrower than many other shoe brands, and these aren’t available in wide sizing. Sam, our main tester, has feet that measure wide, and he often wears wide-sized shoes, but he didn’t find the Aero Glide’s too narrow, even on longer 15-mile runs.
There is also a new gravel version of the Aero Glide, the Aero Glide GRVL, which won Best Gravel Shoe for Speed in our Best Gravel Running Shoes guide. This shoe has a slightly more reinforced upper around the toe box and shallow lugs to grip dirt and gravel surfaces. We like the Aero Glide GRVL, too, but it’s definitely a more niche shoe than the Aero Glide 3.
If you’re looking for a super lightweight shoe with a lot of cushion that’s fast enough for speed work and versatile enough for every other run, this is worth considering.
Best low-drop road running shoes: Altra Torin 8
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 4.7 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Zero drop design, grippy rubber outsole, comfortable for long runs
What we didn’t like: Zero drop takes some getting used to
If you’re looking for a low-drop running shoe that allows for a more natural, barefoot shape without sacrificing cushion for longer runs, the Altra Torin 8 is our top pick. This zero-drop running shoe has the same stack height in the heel and forefoot. This is a significant difference compared to many running shoes with between 6 and 10 mm of drop. The Torin also has a wide toe box, allowing your toes to spread out.
We tested the Torin 8 in Arizona and Utah this winter and spring on paved roads, sidewalks, and recreation paths. They’re also great on dirt roads, and their sticky rubber outsole grips slick rock and steep sections better than many road running shoes. They aren’t our absolute favorite for dirt and gravel—that’s the Craft Xplor 2 (review below)—but the Torins are a close second for mixed surface runs because the entire outsole is rubber with no exposed midsole foam. This also increases the durability of the shoes.
Check out our in-depth review of the Altra Torin 8.
Altra Torin 8
They have a comfortable mesh upper with a padded tongue, ankle, and heel. Previous versions of the tongue on the Torin were notably uncomfortable to many users. This issue, which was solved with Torin 7, is still not an issue with the Torin 8.
We love running in zero-drop shoes because they lengthen our calves and Achilles tendon. But we don’t like running in minimalist shoes without cushion for longer runs. The Torin has 30 mm of stack. So, even though they allow your feet to sit in a more natural position, they pad your footfall so you can run comfortably all day.
They have an Altra EGO MAX midsole, which is firm yet provides enough cushion underfoot. The midsole doesn’t feel as responsive as a pair of Ons or HOKAs, but it provides a solid platform to push off. It doesn’t try to give that floating on a cloud feeling underfoot, strengthening your feet as you wear them.
One drawback of zero-drop shoes is that you need to break your body into running with them. If you have “perfect” biomechanics, where your feet land directly below your hips and don’t heel strike, then you likely won’t have any problems with zero-drop shoes like the Torins. But for the rest of us, it’s best to gradually integrate these shoes into a rotation of running shoes. And as your body adapts to zero drop, you can wear them more often.
However, if you’re interested in running in zero-drop shoes but don’t want to run in a minimalist shoe with no cushion, the Torin 8 is our top choice.
Best shoes for active recovery: HOKA Bondi 9
Available sizes: 7 - 16 (reg - extra wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.0 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: lots of cushion, springy midsole, surprisingly light
What we didn’t like: Not the best for faster runs
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a max-cushion shoe perfect for long runs and recovery days. We’re big fans of the Hoka Speedgoat here, which we’ve always thought of as the trail-running cousin of the Hoka Bondi. But whether you’re coming from a road or trail background, the Bondi is reliable, comfortable, and easy to put on—everything you’d want in a shoe for recovery days.
We tested the Bondi during the building stage of an ultra training plan. This shoe isn’t the lightest, but it’s a great everyday trainer. On a recovery day, we ran up a steep road in southern Arizona’s Madera Canyon. It was supposed to be an easy run, but after a few miles of warm-up, we decided to keep going. The next thing we knew, we were bombing down that road after making it to the top.
These shoes simply feel good. They’re incredibly stable and inspire confidence at a higher downhill cadence. They also provide traction on rougher roads, including the occasional dirt and gravel surface.
Read our full review of the Hoka Bondi 9.
HOKA Bondi 9
The Bondi 9 saw an upgrade in the midsole, which is now made with supercritical EVA foam. Supercritical EVA uses nitrogen gas in the foam manufacturing, creating many tiny, uniform bubbles. This process makes the foam lighter and bouncier. The 43 to 38 mm stack height midsole is quite responsive while providing the most cushion of any shoe we tested. The Smooth MetaRocker midsole makes your strides feel even and the transition from heel strike to push-off easy.
The upper is made with engineered mesh that contains 55% recycled polyester. The upper feels soft and makes the shoe comfortable to wear all day. It’s also quite breathable, so your feet don’t overheat on long, hot stretches of pavement.
These shoes aren’t speed demons, so if you’re looking to set a personal record or make a splash in racing, these aren’t the shoes we’d pick. However, when you’re training hard, not every day will be interval sprints. The Bondis excel on those other days, and on longer, easier recovery runs.
If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe for everyday use and recovery days, you can’t do much better than the Bondi. This shoe is quite popular for a good reason. We definitely find ourselves reaching for our pair of Bondis more often than most.
Best gravel road running shoe: Craft Xplor 2
Sizes available: 8 - 13 (reg)
Drop: 6 mm
Stack height: 38.5/ 32.5 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 6.0 oz
What we liked: Great on any surface, comfortable, lightweight, grippy
What we didn’t like: Not great on muddy trails
The Craft Xplor 2 is our overall favorite shoe from our gravel running shoes guide. If you like running on a mix of dirt, gravel, and paved roads, these shoes are great. The Xplor 2 shoes are built specifically for gravel roads. They feel fast, like a road-running shoe, but they also offer the stability, traction, and durability of a trail running shoe.
We love the Craft Xplor 2 shoes for mixed surface runs, and for someone who mostly runs on pavement, this is likely the only other running shoe you’d need. Heck, if we had to choose only one pair of running shoes, we’d pick these for their versatility. We’ve worn them on dirt roads, gravel roads, pavement, and singletrack trails. While they aren’t the best on pavement or singletrack, you’d be hard-pressed to find another shoe that can tackle singletrack trails and pavement this well.
Craft Xplor 2
We tested the Craft Xplor 2 while running in Colorado, Michigan, and Arizona. We love connecting pavement to dirt roads with singletrack trails to create loops, and the Xplor 2’s full-coverage Vittoria underfoot tread and stable upper provide a confidence-inspiring platform on uneven surfaces.
Vittoria is a bike tire brand, and the outsole really looks like a gravel bike tire. The outer edges of the tread have larger lugs, and the center lugs are shorter. This allows for more traction when you’re cornering without adding huge lugs, which would make the shoe heavier and less comfortable and efficient on the roads. Compared to most trail running shoes, which have larger lugs across the entire outsole, this outsole is flatter in the middle, making it faster on smoother terrain. We’ve tested well over 50 trail running shoe models, and the Xplor 2’s outsole is best at walking the line between road and trail.
They have a mesh upper that wraps comfortably around your foot and a wider toe box than many road running shoes. They have a rubber toe cap, similar to many trail running shoes. However, unlike many road and trail running shoes, they also don’t have any exposed foam on the tread, which makes them much more durable.
The Xplor 2 isn’t quite as fast as the Salomon Aero Glide GRVL, which won best gravel shoe for speed in our gravel running shoes guide. The Xplor 2, on the other hand, is better suited for rougher terrain. If you value maximum speed and don’t mind sacrificing some stability on uneven terrain, the Aero Glide GRVL is a better option for you. If you want a shoe that can really handle any surface, including dirt singletrack trails, the Xplor 2 is the better option. Since the Xplor is more unique compared to other road-running shoes, we recommend it here, but it might not be for everyone, especially if your off-road sections are short and smooth
The biggest drawback of these shoes is that they’re gravel shoes, so they’re not perfect for road or trail. There are dedicated road shoes that are faster and dedicated trail shoes that are better suited for technical terrain. However, they don’t try to be the quickest road shoe or the techiest trail shoe. Instead, they balance the most important elements of road and trail, and combine them in one do-it-all shoe.
For an all-surface trail shoe that is light enough for tempo runs but comfortable, grippy, and durable enough for dirt, gravel, and rocky surfaces, we don’t think you can do much better than the Craft Xplor 2.
Other road running shoes we tested
Salomon Aero Glide GRVL
Available sizes: 9 - 13
Weight: 1 lb, 3.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Excellent crossover shoe, grippy rubber outsole, responsive midsole, lightweight
What we didn’t like: Expensive
The Salomon Aero Glide GRVL is a crossover shoe intended for running on gravel roads. They’re very similar to the Salomon Aero Glide 3 but have added traction to the outsole in the form of shallow lugs. The outsole looks pretty similar to our gravel bike’s tires, which makes sense, given that these are gravel shoes.
Salomon Aero Glide GRVL
Much like how gravel bikes are a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike, the Aero Glide GRVL isn’t a full-on trail running shoe, but it works better on trails than other road running shoes. If you like running on remote roads, where the surface quality is varied, these are great. They’re also fantastic if you like running out your front door to gravel and dirt paths before returning home on paved roads.
We like these shoes a lot and added them to our best trail running shoes guide as well. But they’re niche shoes that shouldn’t be the first road running shoes you buy. If you like the sound of these and feel like they’d fit where you like to run, go for it.
Sizes available: 8 - 13 (reg)
Drop: 6 mm
Stack height: 38.5/ 32.5 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 6.0 oz
What we liked: Like the Craft Xplor 2 with a more durable upper, comfortable, grippy outsole, durable
What we didn’t like: More expensive than Xplor 2
We almost chose the Craft Xplor Pro as our favorite overall gravel shoe, but since the Craft Xplor 2 is nearly identical and costs $20 less, we went with that shoe for the best overall gravel running shoe. However, if you can afford to spend a little more, the Xplor Pro has a slightly more comfortable upper and a more comfortable tongue design.
The Xplor Pro also has a different lacing system than the Xplor 2. The Pro uses webbing loops that extend through the upper, wrap around the ankle and forefoot, and down to the midsole. This design locks onto your foot even better than the Xplor 2. It also has more cushioning around the heel cup than the Xplor 2.
These features make the Xplor Pro an excellent option for ultramarathons or longer distance runs. Most ultra races are on mostly dirt roads, and longer races even go on some pavement. So, a gravel shoe like the Xplor Pro is much better for that terrain than a trail shoe. And while it’s not as light or as quick as some road-running shoes, it’s more versatile.
Craft Xplor Pro
Sizes available: 7 - 13 (reg)
Drop: 0 mm
Stack height: 15/ 15 mm
Weight: 15.0 oz
What we liked: Minimalist design, zero drop, wide toe box, great for workouts and runs
What we didn’t like: Less cushioning for long runs, zero drop isn’t for everyone
The Notace Yama T1 running shoes are a zero-drop, minimalist running shoe. These shoes are very different from most of the other running shoes we cover here because they have a lot less cushioning. But, they’re the best minimalist running shoes we’ve found, so we had to include them.
Although they’re marketed as a trail shoe, they don’t have very much cushioning or deep lugs, so we find they’re a better crossover shoe than a purely trail shoe. And we love these shoes for everyday adventures. They’re the ideal shoe for everyday wear because zero-drop shoes with a wide toe box allow your foot to sit naturally, helping build foot strength. As a runner, you need foot strength. And you’ll be ready for quick runs on gravel, dirt, or pavement with these on your feet.
The most significant difference between the Yama T1s and other running shoes is their minimalist design. They have only 15 mm of stack height, which is less than half that of most other running shoes. This means they provide excellent ground feel, but that lack of cushion won’t be as comfortable for long runs unless your feet are very used to running in minimalist shoes.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the Notace Yama T1 trail running shoes.
Notace Yama T1
The Notace Yama T1 has 15 mm of stack height and a zero drop platform, while the Nike Pegasus Trail has a 37 to 27.5mm stack height (from heel to toe).
Sizes available: 7 - 14 (reg)
Drop: 8 mm
Stack height: 35/ 27 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 2 oz
What we liked: Lightweight, affordable, comfortable, fast
What we didn’t like: Narrower fit, less durable
The Salomon Aero Blaze GRVL is a more affordable gravel running shoe that, like the Salomon Aero Glide GRVL, leans more toward a road running shoe than a purely off-road running shoe. They’re very similar to the popular Salomon Aero Blaze 3, a lightweight daily trainer, but they have a gravel tread outsole with shallow lugs for traction on mixed surfaces.
The Aero Blaze GRVL is lightweight and well cushioned, providing a stable ride on smooth to slightly rough surfaces. It features Salomon's optiFOAM² midsole, which gives solid cushioning and energy return. The outsole uses Salomon's Gravel Contagrip rubber and shallow lugs that grip well on gravel, dirt paths, and light trails. These lugs, which look a lot like the tread on a gravel bike tire, are also smooth enough for paved surfaces. There is a large channel of exposed midsole down the center of the bottom tread, which saves weight but decreases durability.
These shoes run pretty narrow, as is the case with most Salomon shoes. For this reason, we don’t love these shoes for longer than 10-15 miles. But if you're looking for an affordable running shoe for mixed-surface runs that's quick and lightweight, these are worth considering.
Salomon Aero Blaze GRVL
Sizes available: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Widths available: regular, wide
Drop: 5 mm
Stack height: 36/ 31 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 0.1 oz
What we liked: Lightweight, affordable, comfortable
What we didn’t like: Not the most durable
The HOKA Rincon 4 is a lightweight, very affordable daily trainer running shoe. At $125, it's a great entry-level option that weighs just 8 ounces, which is very light for a well-cushioned running shoe. We really like the price of these shoes and almost gave them the award for Best Affordable running shoe, but we prefer the sturdier feel of the Saucony Ride, so we chose that shoe as the most affordable. However, if you’re looking for the most affordable running shoe and prefer a lightweight, flexible feel, you should check these shoes out.
HOKA Rincon 4
Sizes available: 7 - 15 (reg - extra wide)
Drop: 8 mm
Stack height: 39.8/ 31.8 mm
Weight: 1 lb 3.6 oz
What we liked: Well-cushioned, grippy enough tread for gravel, stability platform prevents overpronation
What we didn’t like: Not the best traction or durability
The HOKA Arahi 8 is a stability shoe featuring the soft HOKA midsole. These shoes feature HOKA’s enhanced H-frame technology, a stabilization system that helps combat overpronation without feeling stiff or rigid. The result is a smooth-feeling stability shoe with just enough tread to handle short stretches of dirt and gravel on a mostly paved-surface run.
If you need a stability shoe to prevent overpronation, this is a great option.
HOKA Arahi 8
Sizes available: 4 - 14 (reg)
Drop: 5 mm
Stack height: 43.5/ 38.5 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 8.8 oz
What we liked: Well cushioned, stable, solid push-off
What we didn’t like: Not enough gravel features for this guide
The HOKA Stinson One7 is another stability shoe option from HOKA, but these shoes have even more stack height than the Arahi. They have 43.5 mm of stack height in the heel and 38.5 mm in the forefoot, which is among the most underfoot cushioning of any running shoe we tested for this guide.
The Stinson One7 is similar to the standard HOKA Stinson 7 but features a translucent mesh upper and an internal cage inspired by the discontinued Stinson Lite. The One7 also has a 3D-molded TPU heel clip, which doesn’t add any functional benefit to the shoe. These shoes are great for recovery runs on roads and gravel paths for those who need a shoe that controls overpronation. We like these shoes, but not everyone needs a stability shoe, so we only recommend them if you do.
HOKA Stinson One7
Sizes available: 8 - 13 (reg)
Drop: 6.0 mm
Stack height: 40.5/ 35.5 mm
Weight: 1 lb, 7.0 oz
What we liked: Lightweight, comfortable
What we didn’t like: Expensive
After wearing the Craft Xplor 2 and Xplor Pro, we were very excited to try the Craft Nordlite Ultra Pro as well. These shoes are lightweight, have a springy midsole, and fit comfortably on your feet. They feel fast on anything from pavement to smooth gravel surfaces. And though they’re marketed as a gravel shoe, they feel like more of a road shoe. Our main gripe with these shoes, though, is that they’re expensive. At $200, which is admittedly pretty standard for elite running shoes these days, they didn’t blow us out of the water like we’d want a $200 shoe to.
Craft Nordlite Ultra Pro
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 2 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, stable, well-cushioned, available in regular and wide sizes
What we didn’t like: Slightly heavy, upper material may not be the most breathable
The Saucony Triumph 22 is an all-around comfortable, amply cushioned daily trainer. It’s not flashy and isn’t the lightest, but it doesn’t try to be. We like these shoes for running and walking every day. They’re also very comfortable to wear, whether in a recovery context or simply to be comfortable. They have a simple look that doesn’t scream “running shoe” loudly, so you can wear them around town and they won’t stand out.
Saucony Triumph 22
They have a wider fit through the forefoot than previous Triumph versions, making them more comfortable for hot, long runs. They also have an Ortholite sockliner that integrates with the tongue to wrap comfortably around your foot. This makes it incredibly easy to slide your feet into these shoes—they’re one of the easiest we tested to put on without our hands.
The Triumph 22 has Saucony’s signature PWRRUN PB midsole material—the same midsole used in Saucony’s race shoes, the Endorphin Speed 4 and Endorphin Pro 4. This midsole feels firm and bouncy, but the 37/27 mm stack gives you plenty of cushion underfoot.
While the Triumph is not a race-day shoe if you’re trying to win, we like seeing this high-end midsole material in an everyday shoe that works well for the rest of us. Yes, you can run your race in the Triumph 22, but this shoe isn’t designed to be the fastest. It’s great for long days and doesn’t slow you down, but it’s not a quick, snappy racing shoe.
These shoes are great, but they’re slightly more expensive than the Saucony Ride 18. If you like how Saucony shoes fit your feet, and want more stack than the Ride, these are the shoes we recommend.
Available sizes: 6 - 16 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.9 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, supportive through the midfoot
What we didn’t like: This is a great shoe that doesn’t stand out in any way
The Nimbus 27 is the latest version of Asics' neutral cushioned everyday trainer. It uses Asics’ FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and signature GEL midsole technology. This shoe is very comfortable and super reliable. It has a soft and stretchy tongue and integrated booty for midfoot support. Some runners love this shoe and have been wearing it for a long time.
However, it didn’t wow us compared to the innovative running shoes we chose as award winners. It’s still a great shoe, and if you like the sound of it, you won’t be disappointed.
Asics Gel Nimbus 27
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Versatile, supportive, grippy rubber outsole, durable
What we didn’t like: Doesn’t stand out in any way
The Diadora Nucleo 2 is a compelling road running shoe that balances comfort with a supportive upper. This shoe, from the Italian shoemaker we remember from our days playing competitive soccer, features Diadora’s own Anima midsole. This midsole is responsive, firm, and lightweight. It’s very stable on varied terrain and is one of the more durable, off-road capable shoes, while remaining light and cushioned enough for long days pounding out miles on pavement.
Diadora Nucleo 2
Why you need road running shoes tailored to your needs
Every runner should consider their running and training goals, and based on that, choose a running shoe that fits those goals.
For beginners and occasional runners, we think a running shoe with a high cushion is ideal because it protects your joints from impact as you get used to running more. We also believe versatility is ideal for less frequent runners, so you can wear those same shoes for walking, going to the gym, and around town. Also, if you’re just starting out with running, get a neutral support shoe because those accommodate the most foot types (more on neutral support and stability shoes below). Finally, if you’re just starting to run, you might want to select a less expensive shoe.
We like the On Cloudsurfer, HOKA Clifton, and Nike Pegasus 41 for beginner runners. All these shoes have plenty of cushion and are versatile enough to wear for walking, at the gym, and around town.
Serious runners and those training for a race may want to have at least two pairs of shoes to swap out during heavy training blocks. If you're incorporating speed workouts into your routine, consider lighter-weight shoes with less cushioning, more responsive energy return, and other enhanced performance features. You’ll probably want to switch to a shoe with more cushion for recovery and longer runs.
We like the HOKA Mach 6, Salomon Aero Glide 3, and On Cloudeclipse for speed workouts and intervals. These are the three lightest shoes in our testing lineup, and they all offer stellar energy return for speedy strides and high-intensity workouts.
Ultimately, the best running shoe for you will be comfortable for you. We recommend trying on a bunch of shoes and selecting the ones that feel best. Every foot is different, and certain brands fit better on certain types of feet.
What to look for in men’s road running shoes
Here are some things to look for when selecting the best men’s road running shoes.
Cushioning
Cushioning in running shoes pads your feet with each step. The more cushion a shoe has, the less running will impact your joints. Cushioning directly correlates with stack height, which is how thick the midsole foam is. Stack height is measured in millimeters. Most road running shoes have between 25 and 40 mm of stack height, with more cushion on the heel and slightly less on the forefoot.
Maximum cushion isn’t always best, though, because those shoes will likely be heavier since they have more foam. Maximum cushion shoes are suitable for general long runs and recovery days. (Note: some official marathons and races have limits on how much stack height a shoe can have to be considered “legal;” a common one is shoes must have less than 40mm of stack.) Less cushioned shoes will feel faster and more responsive, making your turnover between strides quicker. These are best for faster-paced runs.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness is how much energy a shoe provides when you push off the ground. More responsive shoes feel bouncy, making you feel like you’re getting some assistance with every step. Runners who want to go faster tend to like a more responsive shoe.
Some of the most responsive shoes are the HOKA Mach 6, Salomon Aero Glide 3, and HOKA Bondi 9. Each of these shoes has a supercritical EVA foam midsole, which means the foam is made with nitrogen gas injected into the foam. This creates tiny, uniform air pockets in the foam, making for a springier ride than traditional EVA.
The On Cloudsurfer 2, which uses On’s CloudTec Phase midsole, is also very responsive thanks to the unique midsole design. The On Cloudeclipse also features the CloudTec Phase midsole and a Helion EVA super foam. The Cloudeclipse offers maximum cushion in a very responsive platform.
Arch support
Arch support in running shoes helps prevent overpronation, where your foot rolls inward with each footfall. It’s hard to know if you overpronate (where your foot rolls in), supinate (where your foot rolls out), or have a neutral stride (where it doesn’t roll in or out). You can have someone else watch your stride, and many running shoe stores have treadmills for this reason.
Most of the shoes we tested offer neutral support, which gives some arch support. You can also add insoles or personalized orthotics to any neutral shoe to control overpronation.
Stability features
As we mentioned above, road running shoes with stability features provide extra midsole support to prevent overpronation. Usually, this means a higher arch.
We tested the ASICS GEL Kayano, which is a stability shoe. As we said above, you can add orthopedic inserts or stability insoles to neutral shoes to custom tailor them to your stability needs.
Breathability
Most running shoes feature breathable mesh uppers. Breathability is crucial because you’re working hard when running, and if your feet overheat, they’ll sweat, which can cause blisters.
Most running shoes are adequately breathable, but some brands offer a Gore-Tex or waterproof version of their shoes for colder weather. These shoes are not as breathable, and you probably won’t be as comfortable if you wear them while running on hot days. Overlays of other materials besides mesh can also reduce breathability in a shoe. We recommend getting the standard breathable mesh version of your shoe of choice unless you plan to use your shoes in a cold and wet climate.
Fit and sizing
Fit and sizing will affect how comfortable a pair of running shoes is. That’s why it’s best to try on running shoes. We recommend trying on shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are the most swollen.
Some people like to get a half size larger in running shoes. If you’re first starting, you may want to size up if a half size bigger feels comfortable. Sam, our main tester for men’s running shoes, has never needed to size up, but he’s been active his entire life.
Ultimately, you want your running shoes to be comfortable. If they’re too small, you could lose a toenail or get blisters on your toes. If your shoes are too big, your heel might slip as you stride, causing discomfort and possible blisters on the heel.
Some shoes fit wider or narrower, and some have a larger toe box. Many running shoes even come in wide sizing, such as the Altra Torin 8, Altra Via Olympus 2, Asics GEL-Nimbus 27, Asics GEL-Kayano 31, HOKA Bondi 9, HOKA Clifton 9, HOKA Mach 6, Saucony Ride 18, Saucony Triumph 22, Nike Pegasus 41, and Diadora NUCLEO 2. A good compromise between sizing up and not is getting the wide sizing in the shoe size you typically wear.
Weight
Most road running shoes we tested weigh between 8 and 10 ounces per shoe. The lightest shoes often have less cushion but more responsiveness. Heavier shoes tend to have more cushion and sometimes more support. Usually, road runners wear lightweight shoes for races and speed work. And they wear heavier, more cushioned shoes for daily mileage and long runs.
All the shoes we tested are relatively lightweight, so weight shouldn’t be a huge concern unless you're racing competitively. However, the HOKA Mach 6, On Cloudsurfer 2, and Salomon Aero Glide 3 are the lightest shoes we tested.
Durability
Lighter shoes tend to be less durable than heavier ones. But that’s not always the case. For instance, the HOKA Mach 6 has more outsole rubber than the heavier HOKA Bondi and Clifton. While the Mach 6 might not outlast a super burly, heavy running shoe, it will last about as long as all the other lightweight running shoes we tested here.
Generally, running shoes should be replaced whenever you’ve compressed the midsole. This often happens before you’ve worn through the outsole or put a hole in the upper material. Most people recommend replacing your running shoes every 300-500 miles. If you’re experiencing joint pain, it’s likely time to replace your shoes. If you still feel good in a pair of shoes and the outsole isn’t worn through, then keep rocking those shoes.
Flexibility
Most road running shoes flex and bend in the midsole. Some shoes build in something rigid into the midsole to propel you forward as you stride, making the shoes less flexible. We prefer a relatively flexible shoe, but nothing too flexible, either. More rigid shoes have their place for speed work and racing, but they’re less comfortable as a daily trainer.
Traction
Traction isn’t a big concern on paved surfaces, but your running shoes should still offer enough traction. Most of the running shoes we tested provide adequate traction on paved surfaces, but some are better for mixed surface runs, where you’re sometimes on gravel or smooth dirt trails.
Check the tread pattern on the bottom of the shoe and what the rubber is made of. Some road running shoes don’t have much rubber on the outsole, while others have more rubber for more grip.
The Salmon Aero Glide GRVL offers the best traction of any road running shoe we tested here. That’s the shoe we’d recommend if you regularly run on dirt and gravel roads but don’t want to wear a full-on trail running shoe.
Drop (heel-to-toe offset)
Heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Most road running shoes have between 5 and 10 mm of drop. Some shoes, like the Altra Torin and Via Olympus, have zero drop, which means the heel and forefoot are the same height.
Higher drop shoes have more cushion in the heel, which reduces the impact of heel striking. These shoes often provide a smoother ride, but some prefer a more natural stride like the zero-drop Altra models. We tend to gravitate towards 5-6 mm of drop, but everyone is different.
Toe box space
The toe box, where your toes sit in a shoe, needs to be roomy enough so that your toes don’t get smashed into one another. Altra creates the widest toe box shoes, but any shoe that’s available in wide sizing will likely have a large enough toe box to accommodate your wider feet.
Toe box space comes down to foot shape and preference. If you have a wider foot, try shoes with a wider toe box, or get a pair of shoes in wide sizing.
Material
Road running shoes use different upper, midsole, and outsole materials.
The upper is typically mesh to make the shoe light and breathable. The midsole provides stability and cushion in a running shoe. Midsoles are usually made of some type of foam, and some brands add other proprietary tech in the midsole as well for increased rebound, cushion, or both.
The shoe's outsole, or tread, is made of rubber. The type of rubber varies widely between shoes, and you can dive deep into this if you want. We find rubber compounds are more important with trail running shoes. For road running, most rubber compounds offer a balance of grip and durability that works for most people.
Style/colors
You want your shoes to look good when you’re running. While style isn’t the most important factor, most running shoes look pretty cool and come in many fun color combinations. Many running shoes have at least some hints of reflectivity on the logos or laces, but if you want to easily be seen on the road, you can opt for neon colors and check out our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
How should road running shoes fit?
Road running shoes should fit comfortably above all else. They should have enough room in the toe box that your toes don’t squeeze together, which can cause blisters while running. The shoe’s heel cup should hold your heel firmly in place to prevent uncomfortable rubbing as you push off with each stride. When trying on shoes, we like to test if we can wiggle our toes with them laced snugly and if the heel slips by holding the shoe in place while attempting to lift our heel.
For more information on how to size road running shoes, see our guide to sizing trail running shoes.
Can I use road running shoes for trail running?
You can absolutely use road running shoes for trail running. Trail running shoes tend to have a burlier toe cap to protect your feet and grippier tread for better traction on uneven surfaces. But that doesn’t mean you need trail running-specific shoes to start trail running.
To test durability, we used each of these road running shoes on smooth dirt trails and rocky paths. They all worked because a running shoe is a running shoe, no matter its specific intended use case. However, trail running shoes will work better on trails than road running shoes, especially on technical, steep, rocky, and muddy trails.
If you want one pair of shoes for roads and trails, we recommend the Salomon Aero Glide GRVL. These shoes have a stickier rubber outsole with shallow lugs that aid in traction on dirt but feel quick and nimble like a road running shoe.
Breaking in new road running shoes
Most road running shoes are comfortable out of the box, but breaking them in will help your body adjust to a new pair of shoes. We recommend taking them on shorter runs initially. If you have an older pair of shoes, alternate between running in your new and old shoes.
You may need to stop and adjust the lacing as your foot settles during your first few runs with a new pair of running shoes. For more information on different lacing techniques, see REI’s guide to lacing running shoes.
Care and maintenance of road running shoes
Many people, especially old-school runners, think you should never wash running shoes. But you can wash running shoes, and here’s how:
Remove the laces. You can place these in a mesh bag and put them in a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Remove the insoles.
Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove dry dirt from the outsoles and upper. If your shoes are muddy, it’s best to let them dry before washing because dry dirt will flake off.
Wash the shoes and insoles with mild soap in a utility sink, bucket, or wash basin.
Rinse with clean water.
To maximize durability, choose a shoe with more rubber on the outsole. Many road running shoes have large sections of exposed midsole foam prone to tearing as you step. The most durable shoes have less exposed midsole foam. We like the HOKA Mach 6, Nike Pegasus, Altra Torin, On Cloudeclipse, and Saucony Ride because they have less midsole foam exposed to the tread.
If you use Strava to track your runs, you can add your shoes to your profile. You can set the app to notify you when you’ve reached a set amount of miles on a pair of shoes. The default notification comes at 250 miles on a pair of shoes, which is ideal because many shoes need to be replaced at around 300 miles.
To add shoes to your profile, go to “Settings,” then “My Gear,” and add your shoes. You can also follow this link. Then, when you’ve completed a run, add the shoes you wore by editing the activity and selecting those shoes.
You can also track your shoe mileage manually by keeping a spreadsheet of all your runs and adding up the total miles as you go. However, Strava is a free app, and it’s helpful in tracking your total mileage by week, month, and year. Strava also has a social element; we stay connected with many runners we meet at running clubs and out on the trails through this app.
FAQ
-
Road running shoes are designed for pavement and hard surfaces, while trail running shoes are built for dirt, rocks, and uneven terrain. Road shoes prioritize cushioning, flexibility, and smooth transitions, whereas trail shoes use grippier outsoles and more protective uppers.
-
Most road running shoes last between 300 and 500 miles., depending on your weight, running style, surface, and the shoe’s midsole durability. If you notice it feels less cushioned or you have new discomfort when running, it often means it’s time for a new pair.
-
Neutral shoes are best for runners with natural foot mechanics, while stability shoes provide extra support for runners who overpronate. The right choice depends on your gait and comfort preferences rather than marketing claims alone. A running store should be able to assess your gait.
-
The right cushioning level for you depends on your running distance and body. Some runners prefer highly cushioned shoes for long runs and recovery days, while others prefer lower-profile shoes for better ground feel and responsiveness.
-
Heel-to-toe drop refers to the height difference between the heel and forefoot. Higher drop shoes often feel more traditional and may reduce strain on the calves, while lower drop shoes promote a more natural foot strike but may require gradual adaptation.
-
Carbon-plated shoes are designed primarily for speed and racing. While they can be used for training, many runners prefer more durable and versatile daily trainers for regular mileage. We didn’t test them in this story for that reason.
-
Running shoes should feel secure but not restrictive. There should be about a thumb’s width of space in front of your toes to allow for foot swelling during runs. If you aren’t sure, get fitted at a local running store.
-
Wide running shoes are helpful if you experience pinching or numbness in standard-width shoes. Many brands offer multiple width options to accommodate different foot shapes, notably HOKA, our overall winner.
-
Yes, road running shoes work well for walking due to their cushioning and flexibility. However, walking-specific shoes may offer different support features depending on your needs. For more walking shoe recommendations, see our Best Walking Shoes guide.
-
The best running shoe for beginners is typically a neutral daily trainer with moderate cushioning and good comfort. Beginners benefit most from a versatile shoe that works for short runs, longer runs, and gradual mileage increases. We recommend the Nike Pegasus 41 for that reason.
How we researched and tested
We tested road running shoes during a 48-week ultrarunning training plan. We tested these shoes during the winter in Arizona and New Mexico and continued testing them through the spring in Utah. We ran on country roads, city streets, and paved recreation paths. Over the testing period, we ran over 600 miles through rain and snow, in temperatures ranging from 30 to 90 degrees. We did speed workouts, hill intervals, easy recovery runs, and marathon-distance long runs.
We also wore each pair of shoes when we weren’t running to see how they felt when walking around, standing, stretching, and relaxing. This helped gauge which shoes were the most comfortable and best for recovery.
OUR TESTING PROCESS
We tested 30+ road running shoes for months on country roads, city streets, and paved paths across the Southwest and Colorado while training for an ultramarathon.
How we tested
- Ran in shoes for months on roads, streets, and paved paths
- Compared models during daily runs, workouts, and long efforts
- Tested across the Southwest and Colorado
- Used while training for an ultramarathon
What we evaluated
- Cushioning and underfoot comfort
- Responsiveness and speed
- Fit and long-distance comfort
- Durability and versatility
Why you should trust us / About the author
Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He’s been a runner since he was a child when he ran five days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling.
Sam regularly runs five days or more per week. He has completed countless ultra-distance, self-supported trail runs on trails throughout the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Arizona Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in running shoes.
You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.
