10 Best Running Shoes for Men in 2024, Tested by Fitness Editors | gvvhiumc.com

10 Best Running Shoes for Men in 2024, Tested by Fitness Editors

FINDING A PAIR of men’s running shoes that align with your running style, goals, budget, and fit well is no easy feat (or shall we say, feet?). Starting your running journey, or staying committed to your existing routine, requires more than just motivation alone—it demands a reliable pair of running shoes that can meet your needs and help you avoid potential injuries.

Read more: How Men’s Health Thoroughly Tests and Reviews Fitness Products

While it’s tough to find research that definitively proves whether certain styles of running shoes can either contribute to or prevent injuries, one thing is certain: A pair of properly fitting running shoes will feel better on your feet and help you run more comfortably than a pair of shoes that fit poorly or are worn past their expiration date, according to Mark Mendeszoon, a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon. (Most running shoes are good for 300-500 miles, according to Mendeszoon.)

Whether you’re a running newbie, a marathoner, or a casual jogger, using a pair of the best running shoes for men can help your feet feel comfortable while hitting the pavement (or tread, trail, etc.). In our extensive field tests, we rigorously examined over 100 pairs of trainers over two years to identify the running shoes for men that impressed us the most. These top picks excel in comfort, fit, and performance for various running styles, distances, and budgets.

Below, our curated list of the 11 best running shoes for men in 2024.

Novablast 4

Most Versatile Running Shoe

Asics Novablast 4

$140 at Zappos$140 at Amazon

Pros
  • A LOT of cushioning
  • Great for easy miles
  • Reasonably priced
Cons
  • Lacks grip in wet conditions
  • Too heavy for speed work

The Novablast is a staple shoe that you might find in a lot of runners’ closets. It’s nice and roomy with a wider feel, making for an incredibly comfy training shoe that works well for a variety of distances and training styles. I love how well cushioned this shoe is, which makes it a great option for me when I take on easy effort miles or recovery runs, but can also carry me through longer runs.

These shoes utilize cloud-like soft foam cushioning, which delivers a bouncy feel that most runners love. Compared to previous iterations, there is a more pronounced curved or rounded shape in the sole of the shoe (also referred to as a ‘rocker’ or ‘meta rocker’), which facilitates a smoother and more natural rolling motion from the heel to the toe during each step.

Read more: Best Running Shoes for Beginners

Best forEveryday runs, recovery runs
UpperWoven textile
MidsoleFF BLAST™ PLUS ECO
Weight9.2 oz
Heel drop8 mm

Ghost Max

Best Cushioned Running Shoe

Brooks Ghost Max

$120 at Amazon$120 at Brooks$120 at Dick’s Sporting Goods

Pros
  • Pillowy, soft upper
  • Excellent cushioning
  • Wide, stable base
Cons
  • It feels a little heavy

The Brooks Ghost Max, boasting a substantial stack of pillowy foam cushioning, a curved, meta rocker outsole, and a plush mesh upper, shines in its design and performance. While Brooks is mostly known for its stability and neutral runners, this highly cushioned trainer is my new favorite in the lineup.

Ideal for those with wider feet, the plush upper, generously padded around the collar and tongue, delivers a comfortable step-in feel. The midsole feels light without being too soft, and offers a smooth transition from landing to toe-off, which is further enhanced by a wide base for added stability.

The shoe looks and feels super cushioned and plush, however, it felt heavier on my foot than expected when running. Despite its 10 oz weight, the shoe feels great for easy recovery runs up to 5k pace on the treadmill or road.

Read more: Best Cushioned Running Shoes

Best forEveryday running, recovery/easy runs
UpperPlush mesh
MidsoleDNA Loft v2 foam
Weight10 oz
Heel drop6 mm

Clifton 9

Best Running Shoe for Daily Training

Hoka Clifton 9

$145 at Zappos$145 at Walmart$145 at Backcountry

Pros
  • Great for casual and serious runners alike
  • Reasonable price
  • Balanced, responsive cushioning
  • Really durable
  • Tons of colors available
Cons
  • Speed runners might consider upgrading Hoka models

Hoka’s latest Clifton shoe release is the ninth version of the popular and MH award-winning franchise. This iteration is even lighter and provides more cushioning than previous models, meaning it’s ideal for more serious runners. The ultralight-yet-cushioned design was achieved by reducing the weight of the shoe, while increasing the stack height of cushioning by 3 mm.

Running in the Hoka Clifton 9 ourselves, we found that its comfort and response is better than its previous version. That’s because of the updated midsole, additional cushioning, and trimming of unnecessary overlays and other features from the shoe’s upper to decrease weight and improve flexibility. We also like the new reflective heel panel, which adds an element of visibility for nighttime runs.

“I come back to the Clifton every year because it’s such a solid shoe. The 9 is a great example of this: It’s cushioned, but not overly soft; it feels snappy off the road, but it’s not an overpowering energy return for an everyday running shoe,” says Brett Williams, NASM, MH Senior Fitness Editor.

Read more: Hoka Clifton vs. Bondi Review

Best forEveryday run, walking
UpperKnit
MidsoleEVA foam
Weight8.70 oz
Heel drop5 mm

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FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2

Best High-Stack Running Shoe

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2

Shop at Amazon

Pros
  • Carbon plate delivers great energy return
  • Available in wide sizes
  • Solid stability
  • Roomy toebox
Cons
  • Not an everyday training shoe

This shoe has a ridiculously cushioned 47 mm stacked midsole with a cambered carbon plate and a void down the center to optimize energy return. It’s the epitome of a high stack trainer, meant for long runs and race training of any distance. We found this shoe also offers surprisingly great stability, with a wider heel that’s designed to help combat pronation (your feet rolling inward).

The lace knit upper allows for some stretch but still gives a snug, locked down feel. In the wide version, the upper felt a bit more generous through the midfoot and toebox.

We found the midsole foam to be ideally soft yet incredibly responsive—the energy return is stellar and is everything you want from a high-stack trainer. The shoe’s durable construction and stability allows it to perform well for long distances, too.

Read more: Best New Balance Shoes

Best forLong distance running, racing
UpperFlat knit
MidsoleFuelCell foam
Weight10 oz.
Drop6 mm

Adizero Boston 12

Best Running Shoe for Race Training

adidas Adizero Boston 12

$79 at Amazon$160 at marathonsports.com

Pros
  • Versatile for various distances
  • Great grip
  • Good stability
Cons
  • Relatively narrow
  • Some heel slippage

The Adizero Boston series is a great race training shoe that hits all the marks for most runners. I found these shoes to be incredibly versatile; they don’t do one specific thing perfectly, but do a decent job at everything. A Jack-of-all-trades kind of shoe that would make a great training shoe for most people.

It features a snug midfoot that gives a locked-down feeling I love for hitting faster paces on training runs. The brand’s midsole technology is designed to improved support and stability through the foot without limiting movement, a promise I feel it delivers on.

If you find yourself casually hitting some miles here and there or want to sign up for a few local races in the future, I can see these being a great bang-for-your-buck buy. My only issue with this shoe is that you may find some heel slippage with it, but it’s nothing a runner’s knot can’t mitigate.

Read more: Best Adidas Shoes You Should Know

Best forEveryday running, tempo runs
UpperMesh
MidsoleLightstrike Pro
Weight9.2 oz
Heel drop7 mm

Streakfly

Best Running Shoe for Short Races

Nike Streakfly

$170 at Nike$189 at Amazon

Pros
  • Promotes a smooth, natural stride
  • Incredibly lightweight
  • Super breathable
  • Upper provides solid lockdown
Cons
  • Not the most durable shoe in the long-term

Weighing in at 6 ounces, the Streakfly is one of the lightest road running shoes out there right now. And the featherlight experience is definitely the main pull to this fun shoe.

We found its flexibility and barefoot-feel made each stride feel smooth and easy. It’s designed with racing in mind, yet delivers a surprisingly soft ride, making it feel more like a trainer than a traditional racing shoe.

While it excels in delivering a smooth and comfortable experience, it’s worth noting that it may not offer the same speed as carbon fiber shoes and may lack durability for regular training. However, at $160, it remains a relatively affordable option for those seeking a lightweight racing shoe.

Best forRaces under 10k
UpperUltra-thin knit
MidsoleZoomX
Weight6.5 oz
Heel drop6 mm

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Invincible 3

Best Running Shoe for Easy Miles

Nike Invincible 3

$180 at Nike

Pros
  • Responsive
  • Ergonomic shape makes for smooth heel-to-toe transitions
  • Maximum cushioning
Cons
  • May feel heavy for speed runners

The combination of a spacious forefoot, plush foam cushioning crafted from the brand’s most responsive midsole material, and a wide stable base make this shoe a go-to option for weekly easy mileage. The meta rocker design promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, which can be particularly beneficial for runners who tend to strike with their heels.

This is one of Williams’ favorite shoes to run in, hands down. “The key is the foam, which is super bouncy and responsive—and the makeover from the first two iterations of the model actually make it look good off the road, too.”

Read more: Best Nike Shoes

Best forEasy runs, road running
UpperFlyknit
MidsoleZoomX
Weight10.9 oz
Heel drop9 mm

Adrenaline GTS 23
Editor’s Choice

Best Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

$140 at Amazon$140 at Dick’s Sporting Goods$172 at Walmart

Pros
  • Adequate support and cushioning
  • Smooth ride
  • Durable
Cons
  • Not ideal for high arches

The latest version of the Brooks Adrenaline is one of the more versatile stability running shoes on the market. When taking on easy runs, long runs, or nearly anything in between, we found this shoe provided adequate cushioning, solid support, and a dependable fit for those with low arches.

The midsole: Made with cushioning comprised of foam, rubber, and air, it feels plush and absorbs shock and pads landings well. It’s a good midrange shoe if you need stability with cushioning, and don’t like a high stack metarocker.

The upper is mesh and breathable, which contributes to its flexibility and lightweight build. Reflective strips offer increased visibility for early morning or late afternoon runs.

It’s not the lightest, fastest, or most cushioned shoe on this list, but it is one of the most supportive, balanced, and stable for those requiring additional motion control.

Read more: Brooks Hyperion Elite Review

Best forEveryday runs, walking
UpperEngineered spacer mesh
MidsoleEVA blend foam
Weight10.1 oz
Heel drop12 mm

Pure Trail

Best Trail Running Shoe

Craft Pure Trail

$170 at Zappos$170 at REI

Pros
  • Durable, protective rubber outsole
  • Grippy even in slick conditions
  • Upper offers a great balance of lockdown and flexibility
Cons
  • On the heavy side

We took this all-surface runner to the trail and weren’t disappointed. Foam cushioning provides a light feel and plenty of energy return underfoot when you’re moving fast, while an ultra-grippy, lugged rubber outsole helps prevent slipping on wet trails. We also like the thick, protective plate to keep rocks from puncturing the sole.

Light, responsive, and tough, what more could you ask for out of a trail running shoe? No matter the terrain, we found the durable mesh upper kept debris out and a comfortable, contoured insole kept our feet supported and feeling good.

Read more: Best Trail Running Shoes for Men

Best forTrail running, hiking
UpperMesh
MidsoleCr Foam™
Weight11.3 oz
Heel drop6 mm
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Vanish Carbon

Best Running Shoe for Long Distances

Altra Vanish Carbon

Now 50% Off

$120 at Amazon

Pros
  • Secure fit
  • Carbitex provides extra boost and propulsion
  • Incredibly lightweight
Cons

Over $200

  • May be too narrow for some foot anatomies

Once we experienced the Vanish Carbon’s square toe bed, which mimics the natural shape of the human foot, (otherwise known as Footshape™, the brand’s claim to fame), other shoes we tested felt relatively crammed. This design allows your foot to rest and move naturally, even when your feet start to swell during long runs. But that’s only partially why we’re giving it so much love.

It’s also made with a highly-specialized carbon plate that naturally flexes with your foot to provide boost and propulsion. We like how the balanced, zero-drop cushioning platform positions the heel and forefoot to encourage proper alignment and form, even when fatigue starts setting in. If a roomy toebox, overall comfort, and distance are your goals, this shoe from Altra is a solid recipe.

Read more: Best Running Shoes to Prevent Shin Splints

Best forLong distance runs, races
UpperEngineered Mesh
MidsoleAltra EGO™ PRO
Weight7.3 oz
Heel drop0 mm

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes (for You)

We consulted with Mark J. Mendeszoon, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Ohio, to answer one of the most commonly asked questions about running footwear: How to choose the right pair. Here’s what we came up with:

Foot type: The most important factor to consider when purchasing a pair of running shoes is that you are fitted in the proper functioning shoe for your foot type. There are several categories of shoes including wide, neutral, support etc. To find the best shoe for your foot type and condition, it’s important to identify your arch support and width needs. This can be done through measurement, consult with a virtual professional through a footwear brand site, or by ordering from a company with free shipping and returns.

Size: A well-fitting pair of running shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Check the width, too. Make sure the shoe is wide enough to accommodate your foot without being too loose or too tight, especially in the toe box and midfoot.

Running style: Think about whether you tend to land on the balls of your feet or your heels when you run. Different shoes are designed for different types of runners, so understanding your running style can help you choose a shoe that will best suit your needs.

Terrain: Where will you be running most often? If you’ll be running on pavement, opt for a shoe with good shock absorption. If you’ll be running on trails, you’ll want a shoe with good traction, a thick sole, and stability.

Cushioning: Level of cushioning needed depends on your running style, joint considerations (injuries, etc.), and the terrain you’ll be running on. If you are recovering from a knee injury, opt for a heavily cushioned shoe, if you are running on trails, you’ll want something less plushy.

How Your Running Shoes Should Fit

It is important that shoes be fitted not only in length but width as feet come in many different shapes and sizes. It is important that your feet are measured regularly, as feet can change in appearance and function as we get older, or when females have babies, or even with post surgical changes on lower leg, ankle or foot surgery.

After length and width is determined, it is important that the individual have a comfortable foot bed under their foot and a proper fitting tongue of the shoe that is not too tight or irritating on top of the foot. Lastly, make sure that the Achilles notch of the shoe does not irritate the back portion of your heel (the Achilles tendon).

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Neutral vs. Support Running Shoes

There is a significant difference between a neutral shoe and support shoe. Generally, neutral shoes are indicated for people who have less pronation, are a forefoot striker, or someone looking for a performance shoe that is lighter and more responsive. A supportive shoe is for those who may need a little more control of their feet flattening out (pronation) and to provide a bit more shock absorption and control.

Neutral shoes typically are lighter than a supportive shoe and can break down a bit quicker.

The Different Types of Running Shoe Midsoles

The midsole is the portion of the shoe where the foam materials assist in shock absorption or even foot control. There are typically four type of midsole materials:

EVA: Ethylene vinyl acetate (both white and gray layers) has been the standard in midsole foams for its softness, flexibility, and low production cost since the 1970s. The downside is that it becomes more rigid in cold weather and compresses over mileage, losing its bounce.

PU: Compared with EVA, polyurethane is less sensitive to temperature, is more durable, and has a bouncier feel. However, PU is roughly 50 percent heavier than EVA.

TPU: Thermoplastic polyurethane is heated and reformed. Companies like Adidas and Saucony use a two-step process, making TPU beads and then fusing them to create a more durable, flexible, and bouncier foam than EVA and PU. However, TPU is still a heavier foam compared with EVA.

PEBAX: Polyether block amide (the top, off-white layer) gained recognition as the highly responsive foam used in the Nike Vaporfly 4%. Pebax retains its flexibility and energy return in cold conditions and is 20 percent lighter than TPU.

Generally the darker the midsole material, the more support the shoe will have (and also slightly heavier in weight).

Running Shoe Heel-to-toe ‘Drop’

Heel to toe drop is a recent term that has gained momentum over the last decade. This term represents the measurement of cushioning from the heel to the forefoot. Since the early 1970’s the construction of the running shoe changed dramatically as shoes were constructed with blown rubber and thick heels. Prior to this, most shoes were completely flat with no heel drop (Converse Chuck Taylors, PF Flyers). Traditionally the most common running shoe has about a 12 mm drop off and with in the last decade shoes have gone to the zero drop (0 mm). Typically the greater the heel drop, those runners have more of a heel strike or mid foot strike whereas the lower drop shoes promote mid foot to forefoot strike. Thus neutral shoes, racing flats and performance shoes have a low heel-to drop if not a zero mm drop. Support, stability and motion control will have the larger drop (12 mm).

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Why You Can Trust Us

At Men’s Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. Our writers and editors thoughtfully select experts for collaboration on product recommendations, and are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.

Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected the Best Running Shoes

For the past two years, we consulted with Men’s Health‘s Fitness editors and writers on the top running shoes for men. Experts including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, put countless men’s running shoes through the wringer to evaluate their fit, support, and effectiveness. We also considered price point, as some running shoes provide a better overall value than others.

Read More About Our Favorite Running Shoes

Most Cushioned Running Shoes | Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet | Best Stability Running Shoes | Best Neutral Running Shoes | Best Trail Running Shoes for Men | Best Running Shoes for High Arches | Best Workout Shoes for Men | Best Treadmill Running Shoes | Best Wide Toe Box Running Shoes | Best Minimalist Running Shoes | Best Long-Distance Running Shoes

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