Are you looking for a comfortable all-arounder running shoes? A supportive shoe for overpronation? Or a speedy racer for a new personal best? There is no ONE best shoe for everybody.
We ran in these running shoes and tested them in our lab to help you find the best pair. See our highly recommended models in several categories below.
And if you want to learn more about choosing the right running shoe, scroll down to our in-depth guide.
Best running shoes overall
Adidas Adizero EVO SL
What makes it the best?
We really believe that the Adidas Adizero EVO SL has the potential to transform the running shoe industry. Priced like a daily trainer, it features a 100% Lightstrike Pro midsole and world-class Continental outsole. On top of that, we found it lightweight, well-cushioned, sleek-looking and excellent for a wide range of paces and distances. While the short tongue and horrible laces left room for improvement, the EVO SL delivers a hard-to-believe mix of value, versatility and performance.
Pros
- 100% Lightstrike Pro superfoam
- Exceptional value-to-performance ratio
- Low weight
- Ultra-breathable upper
- Unmatched versatility
- Agile and fun ride
- Handles short and long runs with ease
- Striking Evo 1-inspired aesthetics
Cons
- Poor-quality laces
- Short, non-gusseted tongue
- Toebox durability
ASICS Novablast 5
What makes it the best?
The Novablast 5 stands out in the all-rounder game, bringing a whole new level of comfort while sustaining stability, responsiveness, and reliable durability. Novablast 5 repeatedly excels in our lab tests and outdoor runs, rightfully claiming its throne as the ultimate running shoe.
Indulging in this shoe is an absolute delight. The ultra-stacked 40.9/33.5 mm midsole is our main star as it oozes divine levels of comfort for double-digit miles. Our durometer confirmed our sensations, as it measured 38.4% softer than average. Despite its plush nature, the cushion brings out a vibrant ride for faster days.
Our runs feel stable regardless of our pace. Novablast 5 offers an extra width of 8.3/6.9 mm in the forefoot and heel to ensure we land securely no matter our foot strike. We can run mindlessly as the midsole flows with our movements. Our scales confirm it’s a light 9.0 oz (254g) while our flex test validates it’s 32.2% more adaptive than average.
Novablast 5 proves its durability as the midsole had minor creasing and the outsole barely had scratches after long miles of running against hard pavements. We didn’t feel any difference in terms of performance, showing it’s a reliable and long-lasting running partner.
However, its shine fades on wet pavements because of its lack of traction. Those who prioritize relentless grip should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Improved energy return with FF Blast MAX foam
- Plushiest foam in a Novablast yet
- Keeps the same price as v4
- Higher stack height for extra cushioning
- Enhanced flexibility
- Lighter than its predecessor
- Best Novablast ever for wide feet
- Exceptional weight-to-cushion balance
- Works for short, medium and long runs
Cons
- Breathability could be improved
- Toebox durability
Nike Vaporfly 4
What makes it the best?
After going through hundreds of shoes in the lab, the Nike Vaporfly 4 caught our attention as the ultimate racer, perfect for PB chasers. During runs, it ignited our every stride without overlooking the comfort required for longer races. With its unmatched energy and lightness, we unleashed speed like no other.
We’re amazed how V4 managed to keep its build at an ultra-light 5.6 oz (166g) with all its features. For reference, its plated counterparts average 7.3 oz (208g). Regardless of foot strike, we have tons of impact protection and boundless energy from the soft 19.9 HA ZoomX midsole.
V4 elevates its FlyPlate in the forefoot by making it spoon-shaped to encourage faster leg turnover. This helps sustain our speed with less effort. It releases power through its insane stiffness, which our bend test shows is 14.6% more, and therefore snappier, than average. We felt that V4 shined best at our race pace.
The upper is a summer runner’s dream, allowing air to flow in and out freely while providing protection. On our breathability and Dremel tests, it earned a remarkable 4/5 in both tests—no need to worry about hotspots, sweaty feet, or torn uppers.
However, its reduced stack height vs. previous versions makes it less suitable for heavier runners. Those who need more cushioning will not be satisfied with this pair, especially for marathon distances.
Pros
- 13% lighter than the Vaporfly 3
- Awesome for 5K, 10K and 21K races
- Full ZoomX midsole
- Spring-loaded carbon-fiber Flyplate
- Fantastic lockdown with premium laces
- Moderate rocker for a more natural ride
- Improved perforated, removable insole
- Better rubber coverage in the forefoot
- Gets improvements from the Alphafly 3
- Great upper featuring breathability and durability
Cons
- Less ideal for marathon racing
- Still lacks the snappy feel of the Vaporfly 1&2
- Narrow midfoot and heel limit stability