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. Plus, shop award winners from our inaugural Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Awards and more.
How to pick the right running sneaker | Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards Winners | Shop TODAY x Start TODAY Wellness Awards Winners | More editor- and shopper-loved running shoes to shop | How we chose | Meet the experts | Has your product been featured?
How to pick the right running sneaker
Lindsey Clayton, chief instructor at Barry's Bootcamp, recommends visiting a running store and getting personally fitted for a sneaker that tailors to your specific needs.
"Getting a gait analysis could help you determine what you need when looking for a sneaker because you’ll understand if you pronate, supinate, need more arch support or a thicker sole with more cushion," she says.
As a distance runner, Clayton says she looks for sneakers that are light and responsive, helping her to not feel weighed down with each step.
Plus, she looks for a shoe that "has some type of carbon plate for extra speed, especially when I’m running a race. For everyday runs and walks I opt for a shoe that has a little more cushion and support, no carbon plate."
And finally, while eye-catching colors are sure to wow fellow runners on the trail, TODAY fitness contributor Stephanie Mansour says it shouldn't be the only factor playing into what sneakers to buy.
"Go based on comfort, not color," says Mansour. "I know this is a hard piece of advice to follow, but focus on how they feel on your feet — and if you can’t try before you buy, go with shoes with great reviews or those that have been reviewed by experts!"
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Awards Winners
Adidas Women's Supernova 2 Running Shoe
Award: Best entry-level running sneaker | Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 52 | Features: Mesh upper, made out of recycled materials, a rubber outsole for traction
Podiatrists recommend Adidas sneakers because of their brand-specific "Boost" midsoles that are featured within this model. It works in tandem with their "Bounce" branded midsole for a springy, cushioned feel.
Lululemon Beyondfeel Running Sneakers
Award: Best for mid-level runners | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Features: Labeled as an everyday running shoe, according to the brand, mesh upper to provide ventilation and added breathability
This is my [Ricevuto] everyday sneaker, for running both miles and running errands. It’s supportive and slightly firmer than my other running shoes. Also, the brand says that the shoe has an extra 2mm of foam in the forefoot to support the way a woman’s foot naturally lands, so I like the thoughtful innovation there.
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Award: Best for narrow feet | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 3 | Features: Brand-specific Nitro cushioning, mesh upper to provide ventilation and breathability
This shoe is one of my [Ricevuto] favorites for its lightweight feel and thicker cushioning. It feels good on my feet during all kinds of runs — from sprints to longer runs — making it super versatile for any level runner, which I really appreciate.
Hoka Bondi 8
Award: Best for short distances | Sizes: 5-12, including wide and regular width sizes available | Colors: 11 | Features: Has an extended heel, earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance
Not only are Hokas great for running short distances, but podiatrists say they're perfect for those looking for a more comfortable fit as they're walking around or on their feet for long periods of time.
The Bondi 8 model includes an EVA midsole to provide ample amounts of cushion, and a durable rubber platform outsole, for added height and stability.
Asics Women's Gel-Nimbus 26
Award: Best for flat feet | Sizes: 5-13, including wide sizes available | Colors: 26 | Features: PureGEL padding in heels for a “softer landing”, platform outsole adds height
Social video producer Anita Chomenko bought these sneakers "back to back at least twice," proving just how good they are at helping her have a quality run.
"I owned these shoes for at least a year and they [have been] my primary sneaker. I wore them for half marathon training, races, walking, all my workouts," she notes. Chomenko also called out how comfortable these are thanks to the thick layer of cushioning included in the make.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
Award: Best for arch support | Sizes: 5-13, including narrow, wide and extra wide sizes available | Colors: 18 | Features: Lightweight and breathable, mesh upper, platform, brand-specific NDurance rubber outsole
"The shoes are super comfortable, thanks to the large amount of cushioning which you can really feel with every step," says commerce writer Emma Stessman. "I have post-traumatic arthritis in one of my feet, and my physical therapist recently told me that the shoes are a great choice for that, because of the amount of cushioning and I have found that I have less pain when wearing them, as compared to some other sneakers."
Stessman (who we'd consider our resident sneaker expert) says that this pair is always one of her "top recommendations" when others ask — she even gifted a pair to her sister!
Brooks Women's Ghost 16
Award: Best overall running sneaker | Sizes: 5-13, including narrow, medium, wide and extra wide width options | Colors: 14 | Features: Earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, designed for road running specifically
Podiatrists and our editors agree — the Brooks Ghost 16 takes the cake in terms of running sneakers. Senior social media editor Kate McCarthy has logged thousands of miles in these sneakers, raving about the amount of cushion and support they provide for someone who has a more "neutral stride."
Under Armour Infinite Elite Sneakers
Award: Best for marathoners | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 8 | Features: Brand-specific, "extra-springy" UA-HOVR+ cushioning, UA IntelliKnit upper, lightweight and durable rubber outsole
While associate editor Kamari Stewart says there's a bit of an adjustment period to the amount of cushion these sneakers offer, "I think they provide a great amount of support without feeling like you’re walking on hills all day," she says.
The brand notes that their UA-HOVR+ cushioning "reduces impact, returns energy & helps you propel forward,” and Stewart agrees with that sentiment. "I actually noticed this when wearing them! My main concern is coming down too hard when running, especially because I have bad knees, but steps feel light and springy with these. It helps me keep my stride and foot striking consistent and comfortable."
Altra Paradigm 7 Sneaker
Award: Best for wide feet | Sizes: 5.5-12, including regular and wide sizes | Colors: 9 | Features: High amounts of cushion and lightweight, according to our editors
"These are extremely comfortable and ideal for women with wide feet," recommends commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "They have a roomy toe-box, compared to other brands, and feature arch support for those with plantar fasciitis. They’re not tight and are excellent for those who run on trails."
Shop TODAY 2023 Wellness Awards Winners
ON Cloud X 3
Award: Best lightweight running sneakers | 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.”
ON Cloud 5 Shoes
Award: Best overall men's running sneaker | 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.
Editor and shopper-loved running shoes
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.
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. 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.
Associate editor 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.
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
Stewart received multiple recommendations for the Clifton 9s, and 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.
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.
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.
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
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 toe box 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
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.
How we chose
As mentioned above, Ricevuto is an avid runner. After having run two marathons and a handful of other races, she set out to find the best of the best. She found products based off of customer reviews and editor recommendations, on top of including winners from Shop TODAY's 2025 Sneaker Awards and 2023 Wellness Awards with Start TODAY.
For Sneaker Awards, we relied on editors’ previous experiences with their tried-and-true sneakers that they’ve been wearing for years, logging thousands of steps at theme parks, marathons, commuting or even just walking around their neighborhood. We also looked to experts to back up their claims of what makes a comfortable running sneaker, a supportive walking shoe or a stylish kick to add to your wardrobe. Then, we determined 26 winners across four different categories.
Meet the experts
- Stephanie Mansour is TODAY’s Fitness contributor, a certified personal trainer and a yoga and Pilates instructor. She also leads workout routines and challenges in the new Start TODAY app.
- Lindsey Clayton is a chief instructor at Barry’s Bootcamp, fitness expert and NYC-based run coach.
Has your product been featured?
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