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Since 2014, our team has tested over 110 of the best and most popular running shoes for women, with 24 of today's top models pitted head-to-head in this review. We have pounded miles of pavement, judging every detail of these kicks along the way. We tested each pair on roads, tracks, treadmills, and light trails, taking in-depth notes on the most influential characteristics. We ran through scorching heat, pelting rain, and gorgeous sunshine while ruthlessly judging responsiveness, landing comfort, stability, upper comfort, and weight. From budget buys to long-distance runners and lightning-fast milers, we've found the perfect kicks for your individualized needs and budget.
Editor's Note: We updated our lineup of women's running shoes on June 12, 2024, to include new and updated offerings from Nike, Hoka, Altra, Adidas, ON, Saucony, and more. We cover these changes here and in the individual review.
Built for speed, powerfully responsive, ultra-lightweight, surprising landing comfort
Provides a beautifully balanced ride, super versatile, comfortable without being plush, lightweight
Ultra-responsive, lightweight, great for racing
Very responsive, good overall comfort, more affordable than many racing shoes, stable, versatile
Cons
Lacks traction on slick surfaces, thick heel might not be universally enjoyed
Prohibitively priced, lacks versatility, high arch won't suit all runners, lacks stability
Upper material stains quickly, some runners might desire more cushion
Less versatile, very expensive, lacks upper comfort
Heavy for a responsive shoe, toe box is slightly cramped
Bottom Line
With its blend of performance technology and comfort, this running shoe will be your first choice for all run types
This speed-oriented racing shoe is designed for those with a need for speed who are looking to enhance their shoe collections with a high-performance addition
This versatile shoe is perfect for training runs of all styles and distances
This speed-focused road shoe is what you want if you are chasing PRs, Strava segments, or pushing your limits
A great middle-ground between responsive energy return and comfort, this shoe is a pace pusher's race-day dream sidekick
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 7.36 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Springy
Comfortable
Versatile
Well-balanced
REASONS TO AVOID
Poor traction
Somewhat heavy
The Asics Novablast 4 is a standard-fitting, versatile running shoe that rides better than most. From its trampoline-effect midsole to its geometric outsole, this exciting, newly updated running shoe will take you through your training in comfort. Asics created a maximally cushioned shoe that provides powerful energy return, making it suitable for runners and runs of all types. While the Novablast houses a pretty chunky design, its lightweight materials prevent it from feeling too thick or imbalanced underfoot.
As with many road-specific shoes, the Asics Novablast 4 lacks the traction necessary for slick, wintery surfaces. The Novablast does everything well except for gripping a damp road, taking it out of contention as a crossover shoe for trails. Since it is a well-cushioned shoe, the Novablast 4 weighs 7.36 ounces per women's size 6.5 shoe. This is slightly more than race-focused options, and if that is what you're after, you may prefer some of the super shoes that we discuss below. The most impressively lightweight shoe is the Nike Vaporfly 3, but it lacks the versatility of the Novablast. The Hoka Mach 6 is less cushioned but is a supremely versatile shoe that delivers much of what the Novablast does. Knowing that the Novablast offers a balanced ride with bouncy energy return, we'll gladly tote around the extra few ounces. Runners needing a single high-performing shoe will enjoy the pep, comfort, and look of the updated Novablast.
The newest version of the Novablast is an all-around winner of a shoe, with trampoline-style energy return, lightweight cushion throughout, and an impressively comfortable upper.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 5.55 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Peppy
Versatile
REASONS TO AVOID
Less durable outsole
Lacks lateral stability
The Saucony Kinvara 14 is a versatile road running shoe available for less than many of our other top contenders, making it a high-value option. With a peppy PWRRUN foam midsole and ultra-lightweight build, the Kinvara feels nearly weightless during runs. It is cushioned well enough for long distances, but its flexible responsiveness lends itself beautifully to workouts when you want to pick up the pace. We recommend the Kinvara because of its versatile structure and fantastic price point.
The Kinvara is a lightweight shoe, meaning it lacks the lateral stability found in some of its heavier counterparts. Runners seeking stability or a super plush feeling may find the minimal build of this shoe lacking — though the stack is noticeably higher on the Kinvara 14 than it was on the 13, a change that has proven pretty divisive among users. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is our top recommendation for stability, boasting more lateral support than the Kinvara. The outsole of the Kinvara is a bit foamier than some, making it a poor choice for crossing over into burlier terrain. But if you are searching for a versatile shoe with a wallet-friendly price, we still feel the Kinvara is the best value. If you are willing to shell out a bit more cash, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is an entry-level racing shoe that has a slightly softer plate, so it splits the difference between the foamy Kinvara and stiff, carbon plated options.
We have also tested the previous version of this shoe, the Kinvara 13. While there are a few notable changes, which we outline in our individual review, the older Kinvara scored almost as high as the new iteration. You may be able to find it at a discounted price from some retailers, getting an even better bang for your buck from this already affordable shoe.
We tested the breathability of the Kinvara 14 outside and then took it to the lab to examine just how breathable this shoe is.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 5.71 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Wildly responsive
Natural footbed feeling
Lightweight
Well-cushioned
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks versatility
Prohibitably priced
Not the most user-friendly
The Nike Alphafly 3 is the most race-ready shoe we have tested. With a huge 42 mm heel stack and an 8mm drop, this propulsive powerhouse provides long-distance comfort and short-distance-level speed. The updates to the arch configuration make it a more comfortable feeling shoe than versions past, though it is still a far cry from a traditional-feeling shoe. If you are looking to diversify your shoe collection by adding a serious super shoe into the mix, the Alphafly is our top recommendation.
Perhaps the most off-putting part about the Nike Alphafly 3 is that it is chaotically priced and has been unavailable via the manufacturer's website. The buzz around this shoe is well worth it, as it is a very superior shoe, but the elite mystique surrounding it is obnoxious. Runners looking for a versatile shoe will not be satisfied with the Alphafly since it is geared specifically toward race days and speed workouts. The ride of the Alphafly is unique and takes some time to adjust to, much like its ultra-responsive cousin, the Nike Vaporfly 3. We do not recommend either racing shoe to new runners but to experienced athletes seeking an elusive puzzle piece to up the ante on their performance. If you have a tried-and-true selection of daily trainers and want to invest in something fun to help you take flight, the Alphafly is the shoe we would recommend to you.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 7.02 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Very responsive
Balanced comfort
Great entry point for racing
On the affordable side
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy for a racing shoe
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is our top recommendation for a versatile and race-ready shoe due to its strong responsiveness and balanced cushion. The padding is intelligently placed, providing comfort suitable for longer races but responsive enough to help you break a new PR. This could be a great option for runners looking for their first racing shoe. Veteran runners motivated to shed time and PR on the regular will also enjoy the fit, speed, and affordability offered by this shoe.
The Deviate Nitro 2 is slightly more built than other racing kicks on the market, contributing to its slightly heavier weight. Other racing shoes (like the Nike Alphafly 3 and the Nike Vaporfly 3) are ultra-lightweight, but they ultimately lack the comfort and support of this one. Runners in need of a plush ride won't enjoy the scant yet specific cushioning of the Deviate, but if a comfortable-for-racing shoe is what you are looking for, this is a fantastic place to start. If you prefer comfort over performance, we recommend checking out the Brooks Ghost 15, which is slightly less responsive but scores higher in the cushioning and landing comfort metric.
We cut all our running shoes in half to both examine the performance properties and measure them all identically so that you can make an apples-to-apples comparison of key performance specs.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 6.27 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Incredible versatility
Lightweight and fun
Balanced across all metrics
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Look beat up quickly
Some runners might want more cushion out of their daily trainer
The Hoka Mach 6 is our top pick for runners looking for a versatile daily trainer. A women's size 6.5 weighs slightly over 6 ounces, making it a lightweight choice for everyday wear. Its airy midsole and snug upper mesh create a custom-feeling fit that is perfect for long-distance days, tempo runs, and even casual weekend outings. The magic of the Mach lies in its balance. It scores well across all of our metrics, making it a comfortable and balanced road running shoe that most runners could find speedy success in.
Our biggest gripe with the updated Mach 6 is that the engineered mesh of the upper stains incredibly easily. Running shoes cost a lot of money, so we prefer when their uppers defect stains a little bit better. This does not impact the overall functionality of the shoe, which speaks to how much we like it. However, in its versatility, the Mach 6 falls short on some specialty features. Runners searching for plush road shoes will find the Mach to be a bit too rigid, and runners seeking a super shoe will find that the Mach doesn't have as aggressive of a responsive snap as others. But if you are looking for a solid middle-ground, this shoe will keep you happy. The New Balance Rebel v4 is a comparative shoe. While it did not score quite as high as the Mach among female testers, our male testers preferred the Rebel's wider platform and fit. Overall, the Mach is a shoe that we would recommend to most runners because of its balance, comfort, and accessible price point.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 8.21 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable
Stable
Affordable
Many width options available
REASONS TO AVOID
Less responsive
May feel overbuilt for some
The improved Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is an upgraded version of a reliable favorite. With built-in GuideRails, a DNA Loft midsole, and enough upper comfort for long, steamy runs, this is one of our top recommendations for most runners. The Adrenaline fits like a classic road running shoe, adding an element of familiarity to one of Brooks' most popular lines. Runners seeking a durable, marathon-worthy shoe with stability at its heart will love the Adrenaline 23 and everything it has to offer.
The Adrenaline is a shoe built for stability, which works well for runners who overpronate. For some, the slight rigidity of the lateral edges might be more noticeable than is preferred. Still, it's a great option for distance efforts, and the weight and responsiveness reflect this. While not a sprinting shoe, we feel the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, as evidenced by the final scores. If reliability, comfort, and a bit of support are what you're after, we wholeheartedly recommend the updated Adrenaline 23. If you want some support but feel that a less structured shoe might suit your fancy, the Asics Novablast 4 is our go-to recommendation.
If a true stability shoe is what you are after, but you can't resist a good deal, you may want to consider the Adrenaline GTS 22. We included the older version of this shoe in previous rounds of testing and recommended it then and now for its cushy platform and reliable stability features. Since it is a past-season model, you can likely find it at a discount from some retailers while it is still available.
For long-lasting comfort, prime stability, and the strength to go the distance, the Adrenaline is an excellent distance shoe to add to your rotation.
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop: 11 mm | Weight (per shoe, size 6.5): 8.01 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Fantastic underfoot cushion
Buttery soft upper comfort
Responsive enough
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavier
Heel stack will be too thick for some
Runs a bit small
If you have been dreaming of a super plush shoe with buttery soft laces and enough responsiveness to get you hustling, look no further because we have the answer to your prayers. The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 is the super-cushioned, maximalist shoe that all others wish they could be. Its thick and comfortable stack hosts enough energy return to be considered responsive while providing some rearfoot stability. If comfort is what you're after, this shoe might be your perfect match.
The Gel-Kayano 30 runs a bit short in length, so we recommend ordering up by half a size when you buy. The chunky outsole is as cozy as can be, but this shoe also runs on the heavier side due to all the comfort elements. And even though the outsole is semi-responsive, many other shoes are more speed-focused if that is what you desire. The thickness of the stack on this shoe certainly isn't going to be every runner's cup of tea, but for those looking for optimal comfort while running, this is a great shoe to try out. Hoka fans might consider the similar Hoka Clifton 9, although it scored just slightly lower in a few of our test metrics (you can directly compare the two models here).
If you like the cushion and stability factors of the Gel-Kayano 30 but are on the hunt for a good deal, the older version of this shoe can still be found at many retailers at a discount. We included the Asics Gel-Kayano 29 in past testing updates and liked it almost as much as the 30, with the caveat that it is a bit heavier. Check out the individual reviews for each shoe to compare them in more detail.
We wanted to see why the Gel-Kayano is so comfortable, so we cut it in half to examine the unique gel sole. The last image in this montage shoes our breathability test with a mini fog machine.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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We put in the work testing dozens of running shoes, so you don't have to. We take notes as we go and put each pair through the wringer to determine which options might be best for your unique needs.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Why Trust GearLab
Over the last decade, our running experts have tested over 110 pairs of the most popular running shoes. Before kicking off our testing, we extensively researched the market, spending hours comparing features, materials, and fit to help you find the best options out there. Once our lineup was solidified, we tested these running shoes for several months, where we truly put them through the wringer. We subjected each contender to over 30 miles of running, which is more than 500 miles overall, running hard and far to find which kicks can hold up and which aren't worth the time. We ran on various terrains, such as pavement, beaches, tracks for speed workouts, and dirt trails. Yes, our legs are tired, but we wouldn't have it any other way.
What About Stack Height?
We take our own stack height measurements for the shoes, and we test and calculate the heel-toe drop differential using these measurements. You may notice that our reported measurements sometimes differ from the numbers presented by manufacturers. Scratching your head? This is because there is no true industry standard for measuring the stack height of running shoes. Each company can choose how to take these measurements without disclosing their methods. We cut each shoe in half on a band saw and take standardized measurements based on the World Athletics requirements. With this information, we can give you a more accurate comparison between models. Our stack height and subsequent heel-toe drop calculations include the insole, midsole, and outer tread — in other words, everything that is underneath your foot while you are wearing the shoe.
Beyond just testing road running shoes out in the field, we cut them open and assess what they are made of in our lab. We measure and remeasure stack heights, outsole thicknesses, heel-to-toe differentials, and dozens of other things to see if they match what the manufacturers claim. In many cases, we found slight discrepancies, which we note in our reviews and use to further inform our testing process.
Our tests are grouped into five weighted rating metrics:
Cushioning and Landing Comfort (25% of overall score weighting)
Responsiveness (25% weighting)
Stability (20% weighting)
Upper Comfort (15% weighting)
Weight (15% weighting)
Before, during, and after all the actual running, every shoe was also rigorously inspected and tested.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Our lead road running expert is exercise specialist Ally Arcuri. She is an avid runner, fitness junkie, cancer survivor, accomplished ultramarathoner, PE teacher, and yoga teacher. Ally has broken tape at quite a few middle-distance races and intends to win more now that her cancer journey is behind her. You can find Ally and her dog out running, from open roads to beaches to trails. Her years of work in physical therapy help guide her through the sea of running gear available, and a degree in kinesiology provides valuable scientific insight.
We take notes on the on-foot feel of every model during our runs and then take in-lab measurements to compare each shoe.
Analysis and Test Results
Whether you're training for a marathon or walking your dog, picking the right shoe for your needs can be challenging. Recent advancements in materials and design have led to a bewildering array of choices, with every company catering to a different need. Plus, the improvements made in traditional models, the progression toward minimalist or barefoot footwear, and the recent eruption of maximally cushioned products have added new layers of complexity. Luckily, we are here to help you make sense of it all and guide you towards finding your new running mate.
Every pair of shoes we tested saw at least 30 miles of pavement. Testing side by side allows us to really tease apart the nuance of various features and designs.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Before diving in, it's important to decide if road-specific running shoes are the best choice for you. If you run primarily on roads, sidewalks, the treadmill, or a track, you are in the right spot. Even if you take an occasional cruise through dirt roads and light cross-country trails, a road-running shoe will likely be your best option. If you are more interested in bombing down rocky trails, our lineup of epic trail running shoes will have better options for you, many of which crossover onto roads beautifully.
Value
At GearLab, we buy all of our products at retail prices just like you and have our testing team put them through an aggressive battery of tests without looking at the price tag. We consider the price only after accurately and fairly scoring each pair of shoes across our metrics. We've found that value, durability, and versatility go hand-in-hand. If a shoe only performs well in one situation, its value is often lower than a more well-rounded option. Some shoes are designed for very specific purposes, like the race-ready (and very expensive) Nike Alphafly3. It is up to you to determine if you want to invest in one versatile, high-value shoe or in an array of kicks with different strengths.
There are dozens of running shoes on the market, and we tested a mere fraction. When it comes to finding a dream running shoe that will fit your needs and budget, it is important to decide what kind of running you'll be doing and how often, then you'll be able to determine which shoe provides a great value for you.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Saucony Kinvara 14 is at the top of our list when it comes to value. Available for less than many of the other shoes on the market, its comfort and versatility solidify its standing. The Brooks Adrenaline and the Asics Novablast 4 are other excellent choices in terms of value. Though they cost more than the Kinvara, both are highly versatile. A shoe that you can wear daily, or in most situations, has the makings of a fantastic value.
The versatility and comfort of the Kinvara make it one of our top recommendations for runners seeking a great value.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
We also take a keen look at each shoe's versatility. Our top choice for versatility is the Hoka Mach 6 because it excels in a myriad of situations. For runners looking to only purchase a single shoe, value and versatility are important to consider. When looking for versatility, we generally assess how each shoe stacks up across our metrics as a whole. If the shoe scores incredibly high in one metric but low in another, that is a clue that it lacks versatility. If a shoe scores relatively high across the board, like the Mach 6, it generally means that the shoe is more versatile.
The versatility of the updated Mach helped secure its standing as a top pick for our testers.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Cushioning and Landing Comfort
Whether you run a few miles a year or are tied to a rigorous training schedule, it's called “pounding pavement” for a reason. With that pounding in mind, our testers consider this metric one of the most important evaluation criteria for road-focused running shoes.
Nothing makes someone want to stop running more than tired, blistered feet or achy joints, so we used this category to judge a few different shoe traits. We review the ability to cushion the feet and provide adequate shock absorption for each contender. We also compare the construction of midsoles and materials through feel and by cutting each pair open in our lab. Deconstructing each pair in this way gave us a holistic view of what each shoe is made of and how well each holds up to the manufacturers' claims of underfoot cushion. We get to know each shoe and assess its ideal running scenarios, noting whether it is built for long runs or speed workouts (or neither).
Our lineup includes many shoes that offer excellent landing comfort and cushioning. Not only do these comfortably-stacked shoes make great running companions, but they are also perfect for people who spend long days on their feet.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Maximalist-style shoes are trending, and many brands are keeping up with the demands. Out of the shoes we tested, Asics rose to the tippy top in this metric with the innovative releases of the Novablast 4 and the Gel-Kayano 30. Their plush underfoot stacks and buttery rebounds make them shoes for runners seeking a bit of luxury during their pavement-pounding sessions. The heel of the Kayano stands at 37mm, and the forefoot at 26mm; the Novablast stands at 40mm in the heel and 31mm in the forefoot - talk about a thick stack! While the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 didn't score high marks across the board, it is an honorable mention when it comes to maximalist cushion because of how overbuilt it is. With a total stack height of 41mm, it stands out as the shoe with the most cushion stuffed into its architecture.
The Gel-Kayano is our top recommendation for ultimate underfoot comfort and cushioning.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Hoka Clifton 9 scored slightly behind the Novablast 4 and the Gel-Kayano 30, but just barely. The Clifton is a standout shoe in many metrics, but especially when it comes to underfoot cushion. With a thick stack and pillowy landing comfort, it is a great shoe to check out if your joints are begging you for comfort. Much like the Kayano, the Clifton is tall. Its stack is 34mm and 28mm in the heel and forefoot, respectively, providing a thick crash pad for your feet. If a maximalist-style shoe is not for you, some traditionally shaped options can also offer optimal landing comfort. The award-winning Brooks Adrenaline 23 offers a familiar feeling fit with 360-degree cushion for dependable comfort.
The Clifton is a lighter-weight option that still offers great landing comfort and cushioning.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
We need to discuss how super shoes relate to landing comfort. Super shoes are race-specific shoes that are far from plush, daily trainers. The recent boom in super shoes has left runners weighing the differences between maximalist shoes and race-ready kicks that boast 40mm+ of underfoot cushion. These two styles exist worlds apart, and a runner in need of a plush shoe will find themselves out of their element with a shoe like the Nike Vaporfly 3. The Vaporfly and its relative, the Alphafly are the top tier of racing shoes. With 32mm and 42mm of heel stack, respectively, these shoes provide strong landing comfort for racing efforts. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is an honorable mention when it comes to racing in prime comfort. The Endorphin is an entry-level super shoe with a full-length nylon plate, which is slightly more forgiving than the powerful carbon plates.
Super shoes are typically designed for racing and speed workouts, not every day wear.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Responsiveness
Responsiveness describes how a shoe responds to the energy you put into it, how quickly and efficiently your feet travel through the motions of each stride, and how agile you feel doing so. Often, but not always, the higher a shoe scores in responsiveness, the lower it scores in landing comfort, and vice versa. The thicker and softer cushioning that increases landing comfort can sometimes make a shoe feel spongy and hinder responsiveness. This is something to consider when prioritizing shoe features.
Manufacturers have greatly increased the balance of cushioning and responsiveness in ultra-comfy kicks through new technologically advanced foams, materials, and shoe geometry. While individual foot shape and muscle composition can dictate how agile a runner may feel in a certain pair of shoes, certain patterns and indicators help us generalize our assessment of this complicated metric.
In addition to feeling out responsiveness through miles on the road, we measure the rocker angle in our lab to gauge how much of a forward roll it will provide. The more dramatic the forward roll, the more responsive the shoe feels as each footfall rolls into the next.
The rigidity of racing shoes' soles is serious. The tough landing platform helps create the leg turnover that speedy runners desire.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The most responsive shoes in our lineup all have plates embedded into their soles, which provide a strong launchpad for runners. Typically, these plates are made of carbon and run the entire length of the insole. In the case of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, the plate is made of nylon, providing one of the most accommodating underfoot rides in the realm of racing. Instead of simply absorbing the impact, these plates almost propel the body forward, ensuring that the energy put into each footfall is returned.
The shape, weave, and fit of the Vaporfly all come together to create the ultimate racing shoe.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Nike Alphafly 3 is the most responsive shoe we tested this season, with the Nike Vaporfly 3 following closely behind. With a sleek shape and powerful outsole, this is the shoe we recommend to runners looking to tackle speedwork and set PRs. The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is another ultra-responsive shoe that can help you reach that elusive PR.
The plate and rocker combo of the Alphafly make it superior for racing.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 earned incredibly high marks in this metric as well. Also hosting a carbon plate, the Deviate Nitro offers a bit more softness than the Vaporfly, which makes it more appropriate for daily training and longer races. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is on par with the Deviate Nitro when comes to balancing comfort and responsiveness, though they accomplish this in different ways.
For a more user-friendly take on responsiveness, we recommend the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
If you want a shoe that will help you get moving but want to shy away from plated kicks, we don't hesitate to recommend the Asics Novablast 4. This shoe is an example of what a perfectly executed balance looks like in the world of running shoes. It is lightweight and comfortable for all-day excursions but offers spring when you need it without the addition of a carbon-fiber plate.
We spend a lot of time analyzing the data we find and can often predict how a shoe will perform based on this. However, our on-the-ground testing team gets physical in all of our kicks to deeply understand how well they perform.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Stability
Stability is another crucial metric in the world of running. When referencing stability, we are talking about the lateral stability a shoe offers. Lateral stability is significant for runners who tend to over or underpronate while running. Over time, small imbalances can lead to huge, lingering injuries. Running shoe manufacturers add structural support by reinforcing the lateral midsole of their shoes. Sometimes, they insert more rigid materials to stabilize the shoe and promote proper foot alignment through the stride.
In general, we have found that stability-increasing structures and weight are at odds, but the extra ounces are often worth a lifetime of proper running form. Many speed shoes lack stability, so it is up to you to determine whether you want a lineup of shoes or just one pair. If possible, we recommend having a pair for long, daily runs and a more responsive pair for speed work and racing. Of course, it isn't always an option to purchase and tote around multiple pairs. In that case, opting for something with an appropriate balance of responsive energy return and stability is the way to go.
Observing how shoes flex and bend under pressure is one way to determine how much or little stability they offer.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Overpronation can be caused by weak glute muscles, unstable ankles, or years of training with an inefficient gait pattern. If you find your ankles rolling in slightly while on the run, we recommend trying out a pair of running shoes made specifically to correct this postural misalignment.
The Brooks Adrenaline and the Asics Gel-Kayano are two of our top recommendations when it comes to lateral stability. The former has built-in structures to encourage proper gait patterning, and the latter has a bulbous heel shape that helps correct wonky strides.
The wide heel chunk of the Gel-Kayano 30 helps feet roll into proper alignment.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Altra Torin 7 is a super stable shoe that earned its merits here by providing a zero-drop differential instead of extra structures. By forcing the heel to ride in line with the toe (or 1mm higher, as we measured in our testing), the body can rely on the rear musculature for additional strength and security. Zero-drop shoes are not for all runners, but they are fantastic for those prone to rolling their ankles because the shape helps prevent it.
Zero drop shoes tend to work well for runners who have weak ankles because they help prevent rolling.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
In addition to the Torin, the Brooks Ghost and the Hoka Clifton are both honorable mentions in this category as well. Even without specified structures, all three pairs provide balanced structure and comfort. When looking for a stability shoe, it is crucial to assess the lateral structures of the shoe. If you notice that the edge of a shoe is made entirely of mesh, this is likely not a shoe that centers around stability.
The thickness of the heel collar and lateral edging make the Reebok Floatride more stable than many other shoes on the market.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upper Comfort
Aside from style, the first thing we notice about a shoe is its upper comfort. We are highly picky about how the tongue and lace combo touches our feet — nobody wants the lace bed digging into their upper foot — so we weed out the aggressive from the smooth. The flexibility of materials, foot box shape, and overall upper design and construction all play into this, ideally coalescing in a shoe that lets you forget you're even wearing it. Feet often swell as your running heats up, so tight and unforgiving laces that obstruct blood flow are a sure way for a shoe to get a lower score in this area.
The high-scoring Brooks Adrenaline earned top marks in this category due to its familiar fit, comfortable weave, and variety of width options. The tongue of the Adrenaline is nearly half an inch thick, providing great comfort across the lace bed. The Brooks Glycerin and Asics Novablast 4 both scored closely behind the Adrenaline.
The upper of the Novablast is lightweight, breezy, and remains comfortable on long distance excursions.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Brooks seems to have nailed upper comfort in a traditional shoe shape, while Asics has devised newer, softer weaves for comfort in their uppers. The tongue of the Glycerin stands out because of how plump and protective it is. This adds to its overall comfort. When it comes to the Glycerin, though, its upper weave can be an asset or a drawback, depending on your perspective. The upper of the new Glycerin is a bit thicker and tighter than its predecessors, making it run a bit warm. This is a fantastic attribute if the majority of your running takes place in colder climates. This feature might be a drawback if your runs take you through warmer temperatures.
The upper of the Glycerin is incredibly comfortable, though it does run a bit warm.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Lululemon Blissfeel 2 is a standout because of its unique-to-you upper. The knit of the upper textile conforms to your feet after just a few runs, providing a more tailored upper than most. The upper of the Hoka Mach 6 molds around your foot in a similar way, providing upper comfort without feeling overly padded or bulky. The upper of the Blissfeel does run hot, though, which caused us to deduct a few points from its overall score.
The Blissfeel has a way of conforming to your feet with wear. The upper runs a bit hot, so keep that in mind if you run in the heat a lot. But if cooler-weather runs are your thing, this is a great shoe to consider.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Weight
We can't deny that shoe weight affects running ability, but we caution against judging shoes based solely on this metric. This may be one of the first things we notice as we pull shoes out of the box, but this nuanced metric needs unpacking in ways that the other metrics don't.
Could a few ounces hold the key to your running success? It all depends on what your goals are. Unless elite-level racing is in your near future, we'd suggest using weight as a secondary deciding factor after more noticeable criteria like upper and landing comfort. Once you've narrowed down your selection slightly, you can use weight to hone in on your final choice.
The updated to the Glycerin have changed its fit and feel, but its comfort remains.
We love how the Adrenaline's fit is familiar, but it provides comfort akin to some of the more maximalist options.
The Ghost has well-rounded cushion, making it a great choice for runners who want to prioritize a foot-hugging sensation.
While thickly cushioned shoes may weigh a bit more, the tradeoff for the extra comfort may be worth it, depending on your running goals.
The lightest shoe we tested is the Nike Vaporfly 3, which is one of the reasons why we love it as a racing shoe. The Saucony Kinvara 14 is another extremely lightweight shoe, though far less niche (and almost mindbogglingly cheaper). If you want a lightweight shoe with some versatility, the Kinvara is worth considering. The Hoka Mach 6 is a fantastic option if you want combined levity and versatility with a side of speed. The Mach 6 rides like your most versatile speed shoe without pigeon-holing itself for races.
Running is the best. Let us help you find the perfect shoe for you so you can get out and enjoy the run.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
The footwear market, especially running shoes, is oversaturated with options and full of specialized lingo and misleading marketing. Therefore, finding the right model to add to your kit can be a huge and daunting task. Fortunately, we have the details you need to make an informed decision. We spent months reviewing the most popular women's running shoes on the market, from lightweight minimalist superstars to plush maximalist mileage hogs — and everything else in between. Have fun out there!
