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14 best running shoes, according to experts and Shop TODAY editors

These popular finds are road-tested and runner-approved.
Woman tying her running shoes
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Whether you’re brand new to running or you're a long-time marathon veteran, there’s one thing every runner needs: a good pair of sneakers. After all, running is a rather no-frills sport. Sneakers are really the only piece of equipment necessary for logging those miles, which is why it's vital to find a pair to fit your specific needs.

As an avid runner myself, I understand the importance of a reliable pair of sneakers. After running two marathons — one in old, ratty sneakers and the other in a pair of perfectly broken-in shoes — I know that quality sneakers can make a massive difference in your speed and risk of injury post-run.

After scouring customer reviews, doing extensive market research and testing out many of these running shoes myself, I’ve found the best options for every type of runner below.

Shop TODAY Award-winning running shoes

ON Cloud 5 Shoes

Sizes: 7-14 | Colors: 13 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific CloudTec cushioning | Type of running: Everyday, road running

These easy-on, easy-off running shoes earned the award for best overall men's running shoes during the Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards, with some reviewers even noting that they "never wanted to take them off."

The brand notes that the elastic laces were a design choice to help with ease as well as speed while running. Other brand-specific features include CloudTec foam to provide cushioning and a Speedboard that helps to propel you forward in your runs.

ON Cloud X 3

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 10 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific CloudTec cushioning | Type of running: Everyday, road running

These lightweight running shoes are loved by Shop TODAY for being just that — an option that weighs less than half a pound and won't drag you down while running.

Earning the title of best lightweight running shoe, senior photo director Becca Delman put these shoes to the test at various workouts and during long days and, at the end of the day, says they felt like "walking on air."

Hoka Mach X

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 4 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: PEBA foam layer | Type of running: Everyday runs; races

Voted the best splurge running shoe during the Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards, Hokas have been favored in the sneaker world for their unmatched comfort, carrying feet for miles upon miles.

Stessman notes that these sneakers combine the comfort and support everyone loves Hoka for and pairs it with a new midsole plate to help launch you with each step.

Editor and shopper-loved running shoes

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe


Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 10 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific Cloudfoam cushioning | Type of running: Everyday, casual

With over 58,000 verified five-star ratings on Amazon, you just know this Adidas running shoe is going to be a good one. The stretchy mesh allows all foot shapes to sit comfortably within the shoe, while the midsole cushioning adds a spring to every step.

New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker


Sizes: 5-11, wide options available | Colors: 42 | Width: Regular (sizes take into account width options) | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific Fresh Foam cushioning layer in midsole | Type of running: Everyday, casual

An ultra-cushioned and stylish pick, this New Balance sneaker features a heel that’s designed to hug the back of your foot for a more secure feel.

Asics Gel Kayano 29

Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 21 | Width: Standard | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific FF BLAST PLUS Cushioning | Type of running: Road; everyday running

Podiatrists recommend these Asics sneakers to virtually everyone, as they can "comfortably accommodate any foot type." This specific pair offers the brands maximum amount of cushion, with a neutral and stable amount of support.

"They are the only shoes that protect my feet and knees enough when I run,” says vice president of commerce, Jen Birkhofer.

Brooks Running Launch 8


Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 9 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: "BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning;" provides a neutral amount of support according to the brand | Type of running: Everyday running; training

For the lightning-fast runner, try this option from Brooks Running. Its lightweight sole allows for speedy runs without any extra bulk weighing you down. Plus, it’s available in multiple colors so anyone can find a shade to fit their preference.

Editorial assistant Sierra Hoeger appreciates the amount of cushion and support these shoes give, without skimping on other features such as fabric quality, as they keep her feet dry no matter how many puddles she runs through.

Brooks Ghost 14

Sizes: 5-13; with wide and regular options | Colors: 31 | Width: Regular (sizes take into account width options) | Amount of cushion: "BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning;" moderate amount according to the brand | Type of running: Road running

Brooks is a brand that's been around for a long time (110 years to be exact!), so they've had enough time to perfect a shoe that can do it all. The Ghost sneakers are ideal for running, as they don't cause blisters and can also be worn for walking, since they're lightweight.

Senior social media editor Kate McCarthy has been wearing these sneakers for "decades," and they're always her go-to when it comes to recommending a running shoe. "They’re the perfect combination of being supportive without feeling too heavy," she says.

Saucony Endorphin Shift


Sizes: 5, 10.5 | Colors: 2 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: "EVA-based PWRRUN cushioning" | Type of running: Road; everyday running

While these Saucony sneakers are slightly on the pricier side, they’re worth the splurge. The plush layers within the shoe take the stress off the feet while you run, making each mile a little easier on tired toes. The shoe also uses Speedroll Technology to propel you forward and give you the feeling of continuous momentum.

Adidas Edge Lux Shoes


Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 6 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: Brand-specific "Bounce" midsole layer | Type of running: Everyday; casual running

If you need a little bit more bounce, this Adidas pair will keep you moving. The running shoe is made with 50% recycled material and a Geofit padded collar that will keep your foot in place. If you're into working out at the gym, this can work perfectly for your strength training days.

Altra Women's Escalante 3


Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 8 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: Moderate amount, according to brand | Type of running: Road running

Looking for an everyday road shoe that matches comfort and simplicity? This one will take you the extra mile thanks to its lightweight composition. Your feet will feel extremely cozy while running errands around thanks to the EGO midsole paired with InnerFlex technology. Like the 2.5 version, the Escalante 3 is a pair that has wide cushioning for those marathoners that need extra support.

Hoka Clifton 9

Sizes: 17 | Colors: 5-12 | Width: Regular and wide options | Amount of cushion: "Compression molded EVA foam midsole" | Type of running: Everyday run; walking

Associate editor Kamari Stewart received multiple recommendations for the Clifton 9s, and so far she's a fan.

"They’re super cushiony and have a pillowy bounce to them that makes taking the next step a little bit easier," she says. "Plus, I love that they come in so many cute colorways."

Not only are they available in a number of colors and sizes, but regular and wide widths as well, for those whose feet tend to swell when they run.

Altra Paradigm 7

Sizes: Women's 5.5-12; Men's 7-15 | Colors: 4 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: "High" | Type of running: Road running

Commerce writer Jannely Espinal is a longtime fan of Altra, singing their praises to whomever will listen, calling this specific pair the "best high-performance running shoe I own."

"I have been running in these for the past few months and have improved my pace," she says, adding that "the wide toebox is the most important feature for me as most sneakers tend to compress my arches after running for miles."

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 1 | Width: Standard and wide options | Amount of cushion: A carbon fiber plate | Type of running: High-performance, race-day level

Associate editor Emma Stessman ran the 2023 New York City Marathon and wore these New Balance running shoes to "fuel" her longer runs. While the height took some getting used to, the added comfort thanks to the carbon fiber plate and layers of cushion.

"The shoes check basically every box for what I would look for in a long distance running sneaker," she says.

Hoka Rocket X 2

Sizes: Women's 6-15; Men's 5-14 | Colors: 2 | Width: Regular | Amount of cushion: PEBA foam layer | Type of running: Race days

These shoes are worth the splurge, according to Stessman, especially if you're hoping to cut down your mile time. "I ran a number of long runs and a half marathon in these shoes and each time I achieved a personal best time," she says, adding that "they’re ultra cushioned and have a rocker that propels you forward."

The height might take some getting used to, but the achievements that come after each run will be hard to pass up.