X

Article updated on February 7, 2024 at 11:28 PM PST

Best Running Shoes for Women in 2024

I tested 13 different running sneakers while pregnant. Here are my favorites.

Our Experts

Written by 
Giselle Castro-Sloboda
Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement
Giselle Castro-Sloboda Fitness and Nutrition Writer
I'm a Fitness & Nutrition writer for CNET who enjoys reviewing the latest fitness gadgets, testing out activewear and sneakers, as well as debunking wellness myths. On my spare time I enjoy cooking new recipes, going for a scenic run, hitting the weight room, or binge-watching many TV shows at once. I am a former personal trainer and still enjoy learning and brushing up on my training knowledge from time to time. I've had my wellness and lifestyle content published in various online publications such as: Women's Health, Shape, Healthline, Popsugar and more.
Expertise Fitness and Wellness
Why You Can Trust CNET
16171819202122232425+
Years of Experience
14151617181920212223
Hands-on Product Reviewers
6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000
Sq. Feet of Lab Space

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

Our Picks

$48 at Amazon
New Balance Fresh Foam  X 1080v12 on grass
Best overall running shoe for women
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
View details
View details
$140 at Brooks
Brooks Ghost 15 on grass
Best women's running shoes for beginners
Brooks Ghost 15
View details
View details
$184 at New Balance
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 on grass
Best running shoes for race day
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3
View details
$160 at Brooks Running
Brooks Glycerin 20 shoes on grass
Best everyday running shoes for women
Brooks Glycerin 20
View details
$120 at On
ON Cloudsurfer sneakers on grass
Best cushioned women's running shoes
On Cloudsurfer
View details
View details
$188 at Under Armour
Under Armour Flow Velociti Elite
Best lightweight running shoes for women
Under Armour Flow Velociti Elite
View details
$105 at Mizuno
Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 on grass
Best stability running shoes for women
Mizuno Wave Inspire 19
View details
View details
$130 at Nike
Nike Pegasus 40 shoes on grass
Best Nike running shoes for women
Nike Pegasus 40
View details
View details
$159 at Nobull
Nobull runners plus sneakers on the grass
Most stylish running shoes for women
Nobull Runners Plus
View details
View details
$120 at Asics
Asics Gel Nimbus 25 sneakers on grass
Best classic running shoes for women
Asics Gel Nimbus 25
View details
View details

When you take running seriously, the right shoe makes all the difference. Even if you do regular walks, you'll want to ensure you take care of your feet. Anyone can get fitted for the right shoe, from walkers to runners and anything in between. When I went to a running store for the first time, it taught me so much.

I learned that I was an overpronator and needed more stable shoes to keep my feet in place so they didn't cave in when running. When I learned about the different shoe brands that make styles compatible with my feet, I felt like a new world had opened up. The best part is that getting fit for the right running shoe isn't exclusive to people who like to run marathons. You can be someone who spends all day on their feet and enjoys going for walks or a recreational runner who likes to jog a couple of times per week. 

Testing out running shoes while pregnant made this experience that much more interesting. 

Giselle Castro-Sloboda/ CNET

Now that I'm more than midway through my pregnancy, running looks a little different for me, but I still like to lace up and go. I tested some tried and true popular brands including Brooks, New Balance, Asics and Nike to see which held up to the test. I aimed to run at least 3 miles with these selections and observed the feel, comfort, weight of the shoe, unique features and more. One of my overall favorites ended up being the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 because it's well-designed and comfortable.

I also consulted with a running expert on what you should be looking for in a running shoe before you make your next purchase. Below are the running shoes that passed the test with flying colors. 

Best running shoes for women in 2024

$48 at Amazon

Best overall running shoe for women

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12

Weight: 8.3 ounces
Drop: 8mm
Type: Daily trainer

If you're in the market for a trusted running shoe that can be used for every day, long to mid-distance running or walking, then the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 may be your best bet. I've been a fan of New Balance sneakers for some time now and they're always the brand I go back to when I'm looking for a reliable running shoe.

One of the first things I liked upon trying on this neutral shoe was the Hypnoknit upper. It's breathable and fits almost like a sock. I found there's enough space in the toe box, but the site recommends sizing up and I agree, especially if you plan on doing lots of long-distance running during the warmer months and your feet tend to swell. The midsole is cushioned with Fresh Foam X, which makes it feel plush but not mushy when your foot lands on the ground. The platform of the shoe is designed like a rocker so it's heavily cushioned in the heel, and narrows as it makes its way towards the front. This makes it the ideal shoe if you tend to be a heel striker since the cushioning has you protected. I also found it to have good shock absorption so my joints felt protected as I ran uphill and downhill. The heel-to-toe drop isn't too high at 8 millimeters which makes it conducive for medium support while running. If you prefer a higher heel-to-toe drop, you may want to consider a different running shoe like the Brooks. If your feet need more stability than cushioning, then I'd recommend a firmer neutral shoe like the Mizuno Wave Inspire 19. 

Depending on the specific shoe, these range widely in price from $48-$162.

Pros:

  • Heel-to-toe drop isn't too high or too low
  • Versatile cushioning
  • Good for recreational and long-distance runners 
  • Shoe upper slips on like a sock
  • Rocker creates smooth transitions while running

Cons:

  • Not ideal for speed training since it's on the heavier side
  • It may feel tight for people with wide feet
$140 at Brooks

Best women's running shoes for beginners

Brooks Ghost 15

Weight: 9.1 ounces
Drop: 12mm
Type: Road running

If you're just getting into running, you'll enjoy the Brooks Ghost 15. Brooks is known for its running shoes, with the Ghost series as one of its best sellers. I found it to fit true to size, with plenty of room in the toe box for those who have wide feet. It's cushioned all around, and despite its high heel-to-toe drop, it's not as noticeable as you might expect. 

What makes this shoe stand out from its previous designs is that it has an upgraded midsole cushioning that Brooks calls DNA Loft v2, which makes it feel firmer. Although the cushioning is on the firm side, I didn't find it to be too heavy during a run. The outsole also has good traction which works well on dry and wet roads. Even while pregnant I found this shoe comfortable for the most part since it also kept my ankles supported, which is important because during pregnancy you're more prone to lose balance due to your center of gravity constantly changing. I'd recommend this shoe to beginners who are just getting familiar with the different types of running shoes on the market but want a dependable pair. 

If you're more experienced, you may prefer a shoe that is lighter for tempo runs or speed training. These shoes wouldn't be my first choice if I was training for a long-distance race, either. Instead, for a shoe to build mileage on, I'd opt for the Brooks Glycerin 20 or New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12. This Brooks style is a solid pick to start getting into the sport of running.

Pros:

  • Good option for novices or casual runners
  • Midsole is well-cushioned and provides ankle support
  • Good for wide feet 

Cons:

  • Not the best shoe for speed training or racing
  • May feel heavy to some users
  • Has a high heel-to-toe drop which some people may not like
$184 at New Balance

Best running shoes for race day

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3

Weight: 8.1 ounces
Drop: 4mm
Type: Road racing

If I were to run a marathon wearing a shoe on this list, it would be the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3. When I slipped this carbon-fiber shoe on, it felt heavily cushioned and comfortable all around. The upper is socklike so it molds to your foot and the rocker feels bouncy, even when you're walking around. I'd size up if you're looking for more room in the toe box since I found it slightly more narrow than other New Balance styles. It's evident this shoe was designed to help you run fast and give you a boost to propel you forward.

Although it's on the heavier side due to the cushioning, I was amazed at how smooth my transitions felt running in this shoe. The rocker made running seem almost effortless and this is all thanks to the midsole that is made up of a carbon fiber plate cushioned by two layers of foam. The one area where I thought this sneaker fell short was that its shoe tongue is an extension of the upper. There's no way of adjusting it, so it may sit low for some runners. I also found the shoelaces to be on the shorter side and they became untied easily -- that's not something I'd expect from a running shoe. 

During my run I found myself re-tying my shoelaces a couple of times until I got a secure fit. This is an overall soft ride, so it will depend on the runner if they prefer a firmer option. It's able to handle pavement just fine, so if you like running on the road, your joints will feel protected.

Pros:

  • Heavily cushioned
  • Shoe arc is designed to improve speed
  • Ideal for race day

Cons:

  • Shoe tongue and laces could be better designed
  • Toe box may be snug for some runners
  • May be too heavy or cushioned for some runners
$160 at Brooks Running

Best everyday running shoes for women

Brooks Glycerin 20

Weight: 9.1 ounces
Drop: 10mm
Type: Track and road running

An everyday running shoe that most people can enjoy is the Brooks Glycerin 20. This shoe is another Brooks best-seller and is good for everyday running or walking. It's intended for neutral support and offers a lightweight ride. The mesh upper helps the shoe feel breathable while also being flexible at the same time. This classic sneaker doesn't stand out aesthetically compared to some other options on the list, but it gets the job done. 

The heel-to-toe drop is high with the heel being the most cushioned part of the shoe -- a good option if you're a heel striker. It's a plush shoe, but it still feels firm. I personally like a running shoe that has more stability around the heel and ankles, which is where I think this shoe was lacking. The shoe laces also came undone a couple of times during my run, which contributed to this issue and needed to be double-knotted. I still felt secure running in this shoe and found that it had good traction on the road and grass. 

I'd use this type of shoe to log some miles if I was training for a race but would prefer a more responsive shoe like the New Balance FuelCell for racing. If you need a functional shoe for running, walking or working on your feet, then you'll enjoy the Brooks Glycerin 20. 

Pros:

  • Firm yet cushioned
  • Good for heel strikers and neutral gaits
  • Can be used as a walking or lifestyle shoe

Cons:

  • Not the best choice for racing
  • Could use more ankle and heel support
  • Shoelaces could use improvement
$120 at On

Best cushioned women's running shoes

On Cloudsurfer

Weight: 7.2 ounces
Drop: 10mm
Type: Road running

The On Cloudsurfer will be a favorite for those who like sneakers that are maximally cushioned. It took me a moment to get used to the feel when I put them on because, in addition to the cushioning, the shoe's rocker is designed to propel you off your toes. I'm familiar with On shoes because I've tested the On Cloud 5 for walking shoes, but I'd never tried its running line. The pods on the outsole, unique to On's shoes, are designed to resemble clouds to give you a smooth ride. The Cloudsurfer line went through a redesign with this new version with the cloud pods blending in across the base of the shoe instead of being individual pods. 

For a running shoe, I found the toe box to be on the snug side, so if you need more room in your shoes you can size up. Although the upper is made out of mesh and is breathable, during the run it ran hot and could use some more airflow. This is something to keep in mind if you're looking to take up running in the summer. The plush outsole provides enough joint protection that I felt well-supported while running on concrete and grass. I could feel the weight of the shoe during my run, which made me reconsider using it for long distances. It's not the heaviest shoe on the list, so perhaps the distribution of the shoe design is what made it feel heavier. 

I'd keep the Cloudsurfer in my running shoe rotation because I appreciate that the cushioning provides a soft landing every time. I would reach for this shoe if I was planning on jogging, going on easy runs or running short distances, but I wouldn't depend on it for speed training.

Pros:

  • Well-cushioned sneaker
  • Modern and functional design
  • Smooth ride

Cons:

  • Too heavy for speed
  • Might be too cushioned for some runners
  • Runs hot and could use a more breathable toe box
$188 at Under Armour

Best lightweight running shoes for women

Under Armour Flow Velociti Elite

Weight: 7.5 ounces
Drop: 8mm
Type: Speed 

Under Armour isn't usually a brand I associate with running sneakers, but I was eager to try the Under Armour Flow Velociti Elite. Upon trying these shoes on I could tell they were made for speed. They're lightweight with a translucent mesh upper that is highly breathable and feels sock-like. At first glance, I was conflicted about the upper (the bright neon green can be divisive), but Under Armour also offers two other shades that are less bright than the neon green. 

This shoe has a low heel-to-toe drop, which makes it ideal to run fast. You can feel the full-length carbon fiber plate, it's designed to help propel you during your run. It feels awkward when you're standing around or walking, but the structure makes sense once you're running. I'd been keeping my runs at a slower pace during pregnancy to avoid overexerting myself, but I was surprised at how speedy these shoes made me. In fact, I looked at the data collected by my Apple Watch and I'd effortlessly shaved off a little over a minute from my current fastest time. This made me wonder how fast I could get during regular training circumstances. 

Running transitions also felt smooth and my joints felt supported even though this was one of the lighter shoes I tested. One thing I did notice was that my calves felt tired faster wearing these shoes, which could either be attributed to the increased pregnancy blood flow or the design of the shoe since I found myself landing on my forefoot more than usual. Still, the Velociti Elite is the ideal shoe to keep in your arsenal if you are practicing tempo or speed runs or trying to get faster for an upcoming race. If you're someone who runs recreationally, you may prefer a more classic and less expensive shoe like the Brooks. 

Pros: 

  • Lightweight
  • May help improve your running pace
  • Ideal for those who prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop

Cons:

  • Best for speed, but not running long distances
  • Transparent mesh upper may not be a favorite for all runners
  • Expensive for a shoe that isn't as versatile as others 
$105 at Mizuno

Best stability running shoes for women

Mizuno Wave Inspire 19

Weight: 8.6 ounces
Drop: 12mm
Type: Stability

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 sneakers are ideal for those who prefer a firm stability shoe. This was the first time I ran in a pair of Mizunos and it was different compared to the cushioned shoes I usually run in. It fit true to size and is wide enough in the toe box to let your feet spread out. The heel is also well-supported so I didn't feel like I was going to slip out of the shoe during my run. The heel-to-toe drop is high on this shoe, but I barely noticed it compared to other sneakers that have a similar profile.

Although this is a firmer shoe than I'm used to, my feet felt secure and comfortable. I was worried that because it lacked cushioning, my joints would take a hit, but luckily the shoe did a good job providing protection. This is most likely due to the midsole which is made up of the Mizuno enerzy foam and the Mizuno wave plate that provides enough cushioning to handle the impact of the road. It's a durable shoe that also has good traction on the outsole and can handle different types of running surfaces. It's slightly heavier than I'd prefer, but if you're used to a firm stability shoe then it won't be a problem. I would use this as an everyday training shoe during slower-paced runs, but opt for a lighter sneaker to build speed. 

Pros:

  • Reliable stability sneaker
  • Well-designed, durable and true to size
  • Traction works well on different running surfaces, including wet roads

Cons:

  • Firmness and weight may take some getting used to
  • Lacks color variety
  • Not the best racing shoe
$130 at Nike

Best Nike running shoes for women

Nike Pegasus 40

Weight: 7.7 ounces
Drop: 10mm
Type: Road running 

The Pegasus may not have the racing appeal of Nike's Vaporfly line, but it is still a reliable shoe that is an affordable option. I liked that the Pegasus looks like a sporty yet lifestyle type of shoe. I'd go up half a size if you'd like extra wiggle room in the toe box, since Nike shoes tend to run narrow. 

The neutral support and cushioning throughout the shoe provides a comfortable and smooth ride whether you are a forefoot or heel striker. The heel-to-toe drop is on the higher side, but it's not as noticeable as I expected. When I was running in these shoes I liked how my arches felt supported and it added a bounce to my step without harming my joints. It also had decent traction which is important for road running shoes. 

This shoe isn't as cushioned as the New Balance or Asics styles, but it's enough for a reliable daily trainer. Some things I observed during testing are that these shoes ran hot and lacked ventilation, which is something to consider if you need to keep your feet cool during the warmer months. It's also not the heaviest shoe on the list, but I wouldn't rely on it for speed training. If speed is your goal, I'd opt for the Under Armour Flow Velociti Elite shoes instead. Overall, I liked the Pegasus as a casual running sneaker that can also work for cross-training activities at the gym.

Pros:

  • Versatile sneaker
  • Responsive on the pavement
  • Can be used as a daily trainer

Cons:

  • Runs hot and lacks breathability
  • It's not as exciting as other Nike shoe options
  • Shoe size runs narrow
$159 at Nobull

Most stylish running shoes for women

Nobull Runners Plus

Weight: 7.8 ounces
Drop: 8.5mm
Type: Performance running  

Nobull is mainly known for its weightlifting shoes, which I have previously tested, so I was curious to take a pair of its performance running shoes for a test run. The Nobull Runners Plus are the upgraded version of the original Nobull Runners. 

The first thing I noticed about these shoes was that they're stylish and light. I could see myself wearing them at the gym or as an everyday lifestyle shoe. The midsole is made with a responsive Pebax foam, while the outsole is made of lightweight rubber. It doesn't look as durable as some of the materials on the other shoes because the outsole resembles styrofoam. That's something to consider if you prefer the design of a more traditional running shoe. These are comfortable if you have wide feet or prefer more room in the toe box, so you don't have to worry about your feet feeling cramped.

During testing, I found the Nobull Runners Plus lacked arch support and traction, so I'd avoid wearing these if the roads are wet or it's raining. I'd also be mindful of the surface you run on because the white soles of the shoes were easily stained after running on grass. I found the responsiveness of the shoe would make a great option for sprinting or shorter runs indoors or outdoors, so I can see it being ideal for a CrossFit WOD or a HIIT class. The price is steep for a shoe that lacks the features a more heavy-duty running shoe offers, but that's up to you if you don't mind the price tag. This shoe is stylish so I understand the appeal for both runners and non-runners alike. I'd keep it in my shoe rotation for the days I plan on doing interval running or a workout class.  

Pros:

  • Stylish
  • Good for short runs, sprinting or interval training
  • Wide toe box

Cons:

  • Not as running-friendly as other options on this list
  • Stains easily
  • Lacks traction and arch support
  • Expensive
$120 at Asics

Best classic running shoes for women

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

Weight: 8.9 ounces
Drop: 8mm
Type: Road running

I was impressed by the Asics Gel Nimbus 25 as soon as I slipped them on. I had run in Asics before, but I was used to a firmer design. The Gel Nimbus 25 was a different experience than I expected -- in a good way. This shoe is light and maximally cushioned. I went up half a size thinking I'd need the extra toe room like I have with other Asics shoes, but in this case, I could've stuck to my true size. This shoe feels like you're wearing clouds on your feet thanks to the FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning and the PureGel technology Asics in the heel, which has been improved for better shock absorption. 

I enjoyed how this shoe performed in testing: It felt comfortable while offering proper support across my feet. The outsole rubber grip feels like it can take on roads or trails, even rain or shine. The heel-to-toe drop is not as high as the New Balance 1080s or Brooks styles I tested, but this shoe is just as stable and cushioned for softer landings. 

Pregnancy brings on aches and muscle soreness you sometimes don't anticipate, so it was nice that these shoes made me feel supported while also feeling weightless on my feet. Asics' update to its Gel Nimbus shoe will suit anyone looking for a classic running shoe that's also reliable. If you're not a fan of softer shoes, then you may prefer a firmer shoe like the Mizuno Wave. I could see the Gel Nimbus performing well on race day while walking or for easy runs. You can't go wrong with this classic style. 

Pros:

  • Spacious and cushioned shoe
  • Good shock absorption
  • Feels light on feet 

Cons:

  • Might be too soft for those who prefer a firmer ride
  • Not made for speed

Other women's running shoes we tested

  • On Cloudstratus: During testing for the On Cloudstratus, I found this shoe to be heavier and firmer than the On Cloudsurfer. 
  • Vimazi Z60: This shoe is designed to fit your running pace, which is a unique concept, but there were a few flaws that I couldn't rule out. The shoe sizing seemed off, with one shoe fitting slightly larger than the other. Additionally, the outsole was slippery and did not have as good traction as the rest of the shoes on the list. 
  • Reebok Floatride Energy 5: This newest Reebok design could use some improvement as the shoe was firmer than I'd prefer and lacked shock absorption. After a run, my joints and lower back ended up sore which was something I didn't experience with any of the other shoes during testing. 
Show more

How we tested

Comfort: We looked at how comfortable the shoe was during a two to three mile run and during walks.

Style: We took into consideration the design and style of the shoe. Some running shoes are versatile enough to be used for multiple activities like walking, cross training or lifestyle. 

Support: Running shoes provide different types of support, so we looked at the types of support while testing to determine whether it's appropriate for certain running distances and your gait needs. 

Show more

Types of women's running shoes

Picking out a running shoe is a different experience than shopping for other types of footwear. For one, everyone has different preferences as far as style goes and their running needs. Some shoe brands are known to make shoes for specific types of running (trail, speed, everyday), and you may notice some will market themselves as minimalist, maximalist or in-between sneakers. Running shoes, like walking shoes, can also be versatile enough to use for different activities. The only difference is that running shoes are designed to withstand the rigorous nature of running, but they can work well as walking shoes since you need similar support. 

Paul Nasri, who holds a doctorate in physical therapy and works at The Game Plan Physical Therapy in New York, says the most important thing to be aware of is the type of running you are trying to do and the distances you are interested in running. "For example, if you are doing speed work, that sneaker should be lighter weight and slightly more minimalist, whereas if you are performing a long run, it should have more support and be slightly more maximalist," he explained. On the other hand, if you are focusing more on tempo work or short easy runs, you can choose a medium support type of sneaker. 

Knowing how often you'll be using the running shoe is also important because someone running just a few miles a week doesn't need the same qualities as someone who is training for a marathon. "No matter the case, you should always be rotating between two sneakers when performing your regular running throughout the week," Nasri advised.

Two key qualities to look out for in a running shoe are a supportive heel counter and space in the forefoot region. "You want to make sure the heel counter is supportive and that your heel isn't moving much, but you also want to make sure that the sneaker breaks from the forefoot region, where your toes normally would go into extension," Nasri said. "Many sneakers now have carbon plates in the sneaker and that can make for an easier run since that plate facilitates a spring when pushing off, decreasing the amount of energy required for you to propel yourself forward."

The best way to find the right style is by visiting a running sneaker store and getting fitted for a shoe. You'll then need to give yourself a trial period to walk and run in the shoes to see if they're the best for you. Nasri said, "Be sure that the toe box is wide enough for your foot -- if you are seeing red marks on the side of your big toe or little toe, that shoe is too tight for you." 

Nasri advises looking at the toe box height as well because if the tops of your toes are red or pink after a run, that means the toe box is too low and you are experiencing too much friction. "There should be one thumb-width of space in front of your big toe because that will make sure that the front of your toes don't press up into the front of the sneaker, especially when running downhill," he added. 

Knowing your running style

Another thing to consider when breaking in a new running shoe is whether it's working for or against your gait. One measurement that makes a big difference is the heel-to-toe drop, which is the measurement (in millimeters) of the difference in height from the back of the sneaker to the front of the sneaker. Shoes can have a zero drop (a flat sneaker), low drop (1 to 4mm heel drop), medium drop (5 to 9mm drop) or a high drop (9 to 10mm or higher drop). 

The heel-to-toe drop you choose will depend on whether you plan on aiming for short, medium or long distances. You should also take your natural strike pattern into account. Nasri advises against using zero-drop or minimalist sneakers for medium and longer-distance running since they can significantly alter your natural strike pattern. 

If you're a natural heel striker, you'll want a shoe that has more cushioning in the heel, which Nasri says usually has a greater heel-to-toe drop. Natural midfoot strikers can get away with low to medium-heel drop shoes if they prefer. Forefoot strikers may want a lower heel-to-toe drop, but they're the rare group that can pick just about any sneaker that feels comfortable for them.

"I don't encourage changing your natural foot strike pattern on your own, as it changes force distribution throughout the body and can result in overload injuries," warned Nasri. Instead he recommends working with a running coach or qualified physical therapist or strength and conditioning coach if you want to focus on changing your foot strike mechanics. The good news is you don't have to change the way you run since there isn't enough evidence that your foot type increases injury risk

Supinated vs. pronated feet

You may be more prone to certain conditions depending on your foot type: supinated or pronated. Supinated feet tend to place more weight on the outside of the foot, whereas people with pronated feet place more weight on the inside of the arch of the foot. You need both supination and pronation when running -- the issue is when your feet overpronate or over-supinate because that can make you more prone to lower extremity injuries. 

"People with excessively supinated and pronated feet may be more at risk for plantar fasciopathy," said Nasri. Runners with excessive supination are more prone to foot stress fractures (or cracks in the bone) while those with excessive pronation are more prone to posterior tibial tendinopathy or pain on the inside of the ankle due to overuse. 

"The only time I care about this as a physical therapist is when there is a clear asymmetry between the left and right foot, and the side in question is presenting with pathology," Nasri said. Overall, he suggests selecting a sneaker that feels comfortable and supportive to you, without getting too focused on marketing terms such as "stability," "motion control" and "overpronation" sneakers. 

Show more

How often to replace running sneakers

Once you have a pair of sneakers that you swear by, you should note that you'll need to replace them every so often. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends changing your running sneakers every 300 to 500 miles. Your shoe's longevity may depend on the surface you're running on. If you run on asphalt or concrete, you'll want to change your shoes every 300 miles, but if you run on a treadmill or track you'll want to swap them out every 500 miles. If you're uncertain how many miles you've logged, you can also refer to the soles of your shoe and check for any wear and tear patterns. Additionally, if you suddenly notice you're getting aches and pains during your runs and you haven't changed your mileage or distance, then it may be time to get a new pair of shoes. 

Show more

Factors to consider

  • How much you're willing to spend on running sneakers; a good pair can run you over $100. 
  • How often you plan on running and the type of support you will need.
  • What surface you plan on running on. Whether you prefer the street or the treadmill, it can influence the type you buy.
  • If you're comfortable owning multiple pairs of shoes to support your running habit. 
  • If you prefer comfort over style -- in some cases, running shoes aren't always stylish. 
  • If you plan on using running shoes for activities other than running.
Show more

Running shoes FAQs

Does it matter what type of running shoe you wear?

It does matter what type of running shoe you wear since it should work for your foot's needs, running routine and striking pattern.

Show more

Can you use running shoes for walking?

Yes, running shoes can be used for walking. Running shoes are designed to handle the impact of running, so they are versatile enough for walking as well while providing the same support and protection.

Show more

Why are running shoes so thick?

Running shoes are often thick due to the high cushioning needed to absorb the impact generated between your foot and the ground.

Show more

How often should running shoes be replaced?

Running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles or whenever they start to show wear and tear.

Show more