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We ran hundreds of miles in 23 pairs of popular women's running shoes from Asics, Saucony, Brooks, Hoka, and more to help you find the perfect pair
With so many running shoes on the market, it can be difficult to sift through the noise. Lucky for you, we do the dirty work for you. We buy and test each pair of shoes in our lineup, painstakingly testing each one to ensure the advice we give you is sound -- from one runner to another.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 14, 2026
Lacing up the right pair of running shoes can shift you from the noise of everyday life into a rhythmic peace where it's just you, your fitness goals, and the open road.
The best shoe for most runners is the Asics Novablast 5. This shoe delivers an impressive blend of max cushioning, springy propulsion, and lightweight comfort at a fairly reasonable price. If you're new to running and want a no-fuss, beginner-friendly, comfortable workhorse, the straightforward simplicity of the Saucony Ride 19 is an excellent pick.
Our favorite budget pick is the Asics Gel-Contend 9. This wallet-loving option is good for general activity with a side of running for anyone who isn't ready to commit to running as their new pastime.
Since 2014, our women's running team has tested more than 300 road-running models, logging thousands of miles, on tracks, long city routes, and sometimes even trails, and dissecting each shoe to understand exactly how it performs, feels, and holds up to the demands of daily wear.
If you're new to running, many of the walking shoes we've tested could be good options for transitioning from casual walking to casual jogging or running. We've also tested plenty of other running gear to help you reach your fitness goals.
Editor's Note: Our December 2025 update introduces a new approach to testing and ranking women's running shoes, focusing on the perspectives of beginners, casual runners, weekend warriors, and others.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight: 7.3 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Novablast 5 delivers a reliable, true-to-size fit and an impressively versatile experience that shines amid an ocean of daily trainers. Asics has pulled off an excellent balance here, combining the soft, impact-absorbing feel of a max-cushioned shoe with a lively midsole rebound and a more assertive rocker shape, making it a strong match for almost any running style. While the high stack height gives the shoe a bold look, its lightweight build keeps it from ever feeling bulky or unstable. If you like to mix up your paces on your runs, the Novablast 5 is a strong contender to consider.
Like many road-focused shoes, the Asics Novablast 5 doesn't offer the strongest traction on slick or wintery surfaces; however, the updated outsole is a slight improvement over past versions. Our tester said, “The Novablast wouldn't be my favorite shoe for damp road running.” Its limitations on wet roads mean it's not ideal for trail crossover. Still, its energetic midsole and smooth, rockered geometry make it an extremely comfortable choice for any dry-road run. Runners who prefer a lower-to-the-ground feel might find the Novablast 5's rear height (40 mm) to be too high and should instead seek a slightly lower option. The Saucony Ride 18 is both a lower stack and a more reasonable heel-toe drop. Overall, we think the Novablast is good for daily runs by regular runners with a few miles under their belt.
The comfort, cushion, breathability, and versatility make it one of our top recommendations for runners seeking a single road running shoe to tackle life in. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight: 7.45 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Saucony Ride 19 upholds its lineage's reputation as being a tried-and-true road shoe that beginning runners can rely upon. This updated version offers a bit more bounce through its reconfigured midsole, adding an element of fun to a very reliable riding shoe. The Ride 19 manages to balance upper and underfoot comfort and function in a way that will suit runners finding their way through their first run, all the way to runners training for their 20th marathon.
Runners who want a shoe with a bit more technical sparkle may find the Ride 19 to be a bit dull. While updated and a bit funner than the last iteration, the Ride lacks the true responsive bounce that many veteran, speed-focused fiends may be seeking. The Asics Novablast 5 and the Brooks Glycerin 23 both pack a little more punch for a zippier experience. However, the Ride's slightly damped, slightly heavier build makes this shoe a great choice for runners who want to discover what their legs are capable of in a softly supportive, reliable road shoe.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight: 7.18 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Gel-Contend 9 is a delightfully affordable shoe that offers great value amid a sea of high-priced, premium road-running shoes. With a nimble, agile edge to its overall fit and a traditional approach to encasing comfort, the Contend outperforms all other shoes we've tested in its price range. Anyone looking for a well-performing shoe at a price that feels approachable will appreciate the value this updated Asics contender delivers, especially newer runners still finding their groove.
While we are impressed by the wallet-friendly performance that the Asics Gel-Contend 9 offers, it isn't exactly a perfect shoe. While comfortable, its underfoot cushion can feel a bit stingy, especially during longer runs. Runners who want a generously cushioned shoe will have to seek out some pricier options to fully suit their needs, like the Asics Novablast 5 or the Beginner-friendly Saucony Ride 19. However, anyone seeking a single shoe on a tight budget should consider checking out this mostly comfortable, well-rounded, and affordable option.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight: 8.55 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
While there is no such thing as a perfect shoe, the redesigned Brooks Glycerin 23 may be as close as it gets. With a comfortably energetic midsole, plenty of comfort through the upper and rear of the shoe, and a well-tractioned outsole, the Glycerin is an extremely well-rounded shoe suitable for most runners in most situations. The generous forefoot space and well-cushioned tongue further enhance the Glycerin's well-conceived comfort.
The Glycerin 23 isn't the most exciting shoe on the market for responsive speed, especially since it is on the heavier side. Runners who want a high-performing speed machine might prefer a shoe designed with this in mind. The Asics Novablast has a more responsive, springy feel, giving the feeling of being propelled forward. For our purposes, the Glycerin checks nearly every box we have, coming together to create a shoe that we are happy to recommend to just about anyone who will listen, and some who won't. As one tester reported, “It's like I designed the shoe myself with all my dream specifications.”
With plenty of underfoot foam and a comfortable overall feel, the Glycerin tops our list of road shoes for runners seeking versatility. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight: 8.1 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 stands out as a daily trainer focused on comfort and dependable stability, specifically designed for overpronators, though runners of all kinds might enjoy the comfort it offers. Its underfoot design offers a cushioned landing that still keeps runners connected to the road. The broad base and Asics' 4D Guidance system provide consistent lateral support mile after mile, while the engineered mesh upper adapts comfortably to the foot. On wet or mixed surfaces, the mixed-rubber outsole provides traction and durability, making the Kayano 32 a reliable companion for a variety of daily training runs. Runners seeking an easy-to-wear stability shoe will find it performs admirably. Our tester said, “If stability is what you need, the Gel-Kayano provides enough for most runners without feeling overdone or stiff.”
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 isn't geared toward runners seeking maximum speed or a springy ride. Its secure midfoot emphasizes stability over propulsion, producing a more muted energy return. At 8.08 ounces, it is slightly heavier than many neutral trainers, and the thicker mesh upper can feel warm during hot-weather runs. While its weight and firmer cushioning reinforce its role as a supportive daily workhorse, they also limit its appeal for those chasing a fast, lively feel. The Asics Novablast 5 could be a better choice if you need less structure and crave more responsiveness in a lighter feeling shoe. However, runners looking for a blend of comfort and stability will be very satisfied with the updated Gel-Kayano 32.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm | Weight: 6.1 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is one of the bounciest and most fun uptempo training shoes we've tested. Weighing just over six ounces, it feels light and lively without ever feeling harsh or stripped down underfoot. The midsole blends two foam types for a springy, energetic ride that makes it comfortable and easy to pick up the pace. The updated upper provides a secure, irritation-free fit, with a properly sized tongue and a plush but not bulky heel collar. Both the ride and price make the Rebel v5 approachable, perfect for runners who want to try faster workouts without jumping straight into a high-end racing shoe.
There are a few key points to consider when evaluating the FuelCell Rebel v5. The outsole performs well on dry pavement and tracks, but it can struggle on wet or uneven surfaces, so rainy runs may feel a bit slippery. While it's designed for tempo workouts, it's not a full-on racing shoe, so runners seeking maximum speed may find it less exciting. Conversely, newer runners seeking a sturdier daily trainer might not like the Rebel v5's lightweight approach. The fit of this shoe feels a bit short in the toe box, so we recommend trying it on before buying if possible. Overall, the forgiving design and comfortable fit make this a very approachable choice for runners looking to explore quicker paces.
Runners who want the springy and bounce of a speed-focused shoe in an approachable package should check out the well-updated New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm | Weight: 7.13 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The New Balance 1080v15 is, like its predecessor, an epic shoe when it comes to underfoot impact cushioning. Unlike the version that came before it, this reworked model comes ready to provide energy and a contemporary fit in addition to its underfoot cushioning. The thick underfoot cushioning, 38 mm thick at the heel, is made of a springy, rebound-forward foam that doesn't totally give under the weight of repeated footfalls. The result is a powerfully protective road-running shoe that offers stability and excellent comfort.
Of course, well-cushioned shoes are not typically the most well-regarded for speed. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15, for all of its excellence, does not necessarily offer the speed versatility that runners looking to incorporate tempo runs and race paces into their training may desire. If that is your jam, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 could be a better fit. This latest 1080 iteration has a slightly reduced weight and newfound balance, which has us recommending it far and wide, just not to runners seeking the ultimate speed machine.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5 mm | Weight: 4.4 oz/shoe (women's 6.5)
The Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is a true racing machine, delivering elite performance in an exceptionally lightweight package. At just 4.44 ounces (women's size 6.5), it feels nearly weightless, helping runners maximize stride efficiency and forward propulsion. Its dual-foam midsole offers a mix of soft landings and springy rebounds, powering each step with ease. The shoe's geometry is tailored for runners who gain speed by lengthening their stride, making it a strong fit for midfoot to forefoot strikers aiming for race-pace performance.
Despite its race-day strengths, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo isn't ideal for every runner or situation. Its higher price point makes it an investment best reserved for those focused on serious performance gains. The soft midsole foam, while lively at speed, can feel a little wobbly at slower paces, especially in the heel. The minimalist outsole works well on dry roads but can feel slick on wet surfaces or grass, so caution is needed. With its aggressive, performance-focused design, it's less suited for casual runs or beginners, but runners ready to push hard will enjoy the liveliness and responsiveness this shoe delivers.
The Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is built for racing. Runners who want to hit race paces in a specially-designed shoe should consider this high-octane option from Asics. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Product Comparison Table
Finding the right road running shoes for your needs and budget can feel like an overwhelming task in a market saturated with options. We teased out the details to help you find a shoe that will seamlessly serve your needs. Credit: Ally Arcuri
How We Tested
Over the last decade, our running experts have tested hundreds of pairs of popular road shoes. We test every pair for several months and run over 30 miles on diverse terrain, including pavement, beaches, tracks, and dirt trails. We also cut them open to measure and inspect their materials.
Comfort and Fit (45% of overall score weighting)
Cushioning (30% weighting)
Breathability (15% weighting)
Traction (10% weighting)
What About Stack Height?
There is no industry-standard method for measuring the stack height of running shoes. Each company can choose how to take these measurements without disclosing their methods — so we take our own standardized stack measurements based on the World Athletics requirements. We cut each shoe in half and take standardized measurements to give you an accurate comparison.
We run far, wide, and, um, excessively, to help you determine which running shoes will best suit your needs and budget. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Why Trust GearLab
Our lead road running tester is exercise specialist, Ally Arcuri. She is an avid runner, an accomplished ultramarathoner, a teacher, and a yoga instructor. When she isn't tackling middle-distance races, Ally and her dog run open roads, beaches, trails, and more. Her degree in kinesiology and years of working in physical therapy help guide her through the vast array of running gear.
Running biomechanics expert and consultant, Carrie Vickers also contributed to our test plan and advice on how to choose running shoes. Carrie is an accomplished runner, placing in US National, Olympic, and World events. She once held the record in the 2000-meter steeplechase.
To us, running means finding and deepening the connection between our bodies and our minds. The right shoes can make all of the difference in pursuing the depths of this connection.
Analysis and Test Results
Whether you're training for a marathon or walking your dog, picking the right shoe can be challenging. We tested each pair for cushioning, comfort, traction, and more to help you find the right fit for your stride, foot, and budget.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The best value going somewhat depends on your goals and the level of runner you are. Newbies can find a very affordable pair of shoes in the Saucony Ride 19. With a lower list price than many competitors, it can sometimes be found on sale for an even lower price. The best value presented this round of testing is, by far, the Asics Gel Contend 9. Available for about half the price of most leading options, the Contend is one of the most affordable shoes we've ever tested. While it may not boast the technical prowess and features of more premium options, it is a potential option for those on a budget or those who run a little but enjoy other fitness activities more.
Representing one of the best values we've ever seen, the Asics Gel Contend is a decently comfortable shoe for a shockingly low price (when compared to other running shoes). Credit: Ally Arcuri
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit can work together to make or break your running experience. Nothing cramps your style more than trying to run (something already inherently challenging) in a shoe that is ill-suited to your body or your running style. While comfort and fit are generally subjective, breaking down the components of each can help guide you toward the right choice for your anatomy, running mechanics, and preferences.
When searching for a comfortable running shoe, consider the following factors: how the upper materials and construction feel on your foot, whether the toe box allows for natural toe splay, and how securely the midfoot locks in without squeezing. Pay attention to the heel collar and how well it holds you in place, as well as the tongue's padding and stability during movement. Flexibility, stiffness, and the overall geometry of the shoe can also influence how smoothly your stride flows. Finally, factors like arch support, footbed shape, weight, and overall length and width proportions all play a major role in how comfortably the shoe moves with you mile after mile. Buying from retailers that allow returns can help you find the magical fit. Some even encourage buying multiple sizes for comparison with quick and easy returns.
While comfort and fit can be subjective, we narrow down and tease out the features of each road running shoe to help you decide which one will help suit you best. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Asics Novablast 5 sits high atop our list of shoes with high-scoring marks in the comfort and fit category. The 40 mm stack and plush heel collar come together to create a shoe that is at once energetic and plush, a real rarity in the world of road running shoes.
The Novablast 5 is a comfortable shoe for most. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Asics Novablast 5 is one of our highest-recommended shoes for comfort and fit, but its rocker-style shape may not suit all runners' needs and anatomy. If you'd like a shoe with a more traditional shape, the Asics Gel Kayano 32 is a high-scoring road runner to check out. Built to feel as smooth and plush as silk pillows, this stability shoe offers a more traditional take on ultimate comfort.
The Gel-Kayano combines effective stability features with exceptionally soft, well-crafted cushioning, offering a supportive yet comfortable ride. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Brooks Glycerin 23 is another top performer for comfort and fit. The Glycerin features a plush heel collar that pairs well with its supportive, breathable upper. The redesigned midsole and 2 mm of added cushion help make this shoe feel comfortable on long walks and runs.
The Brooks Glycerin is a tried-and-true workhorse of a shoe that is suitable for road runs of all kinds. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Topo Athletic Phantom 4 offers comfort, too, but in a plush, pillowy kind of way. The Phantom is a shoe known for its supportive foams and spacious toe boxes. Runners who want the added toe box space will find the Phantom gives wide and particular forefeet the right amount of space. One of the things we appreciate most about the Phantom is that it is a wide-toe-boxed shoe that isn't also a zero-drop. The Phantom offers a more typical 6 mm drop. Neither drop is “better” than the other, but we recommend new runners consider shoes with lower drops as they get started before transitioning up.
The spacious forefoot and plush heel collar help make the Phantom a comfort superstar. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Heel Toe Drop
Heel-to-toe drop is important, as it can influence comfort, joint loading, and how a shoe feels on the body over time. While it doesn't determine how cushioned a shoe is, drop affects posture and where stress is absorbed, which can be important for runners who are recovering from injuries or trying to protect their knees and hips. Rather than viewing drop as good or bad, it's best to think of it as a personal preference tied to anatomy, gait, and training history. Placing these figures side by side can help you make informed choices about what might feel best and support your body in the long term. In general, studies show that the steeper or more significant the drop, the greater the pressure on the knees and hips. However, a steeper drop can benefit runners who heel-strike first in their stride.
The Altra shoes in this review do not appear on this list as they have a zero heel-to-toe drop.
The Altra Escalante 4 is a minimalist shoe that scored the lowest for comfort, but its score doesn't tell the whole story. Designed to feel minimal and almost invisible underfoot, the Escalante places the heel of the foot on the same plane as the forefoot. This unique design is beloved by some runners and despised by others. Zero-drop running shoes have equal cushioning under the heel and forefoot, encouraging a more natural, midfoot-oriented stride. They can be a good fit for runners who prefer a minimalist feel or want to strengthen lower-leg muscles, but they work best for gradually transitioning to a heel-to-toe cushioning drop to avoid strain. While not a top scorer in this metric, runners who are seeking this balance of features will likely enjoy what the Escalante offers.
The Altra Escalante 4 delivers a minimalist, zero-drop ride designed for runners who prefer a natural, low-profile feel underfoot.
If you like the idea of a speed shoe or feel ready to dive into something designed for racing, the Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is one of the most comfortable road racing shoes. This shoe is designed for a specific purpose and isn't intended for comfortable daily wear. Outfitted with a carbon plate and an ultra-minimal upper, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is comfortable and well-fitting for a race shoe, but isn't a shoe we recommend for most runners or road running situations.
While comfortable for a racing shoe, the Metaspeed is not comfy enough for everyday runs. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Cushioning
When evaluating underfoot cushioning, we look for a balance between softness, support, and enough protection to absorb impact without making the shoe feel unstable or sluggish. The right amount and type of cushioning depends on your running style, mileage, and personal preferences. Softer foams can ease joint impact on longer runs, firmer configurations can offer stability and efficiency, and more responsive designs help with quicker foot turnover. Considering how you land, how far you typically run, and what feels comfortable over time can help guide you toward the cushioning profile that best supports your body and goals.
Altra Torin 8Hoka Bondi 9
Compare inside view of cushion stack between shoe models.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 offers the best take on underfoot cushioning. With a comfortable 38 mm of cushion above the ground at the heel, this shoe's crashpad is ideal for joint protection. The foam in this shoe is protective and comfortable without feeling sluggish or mushy, which is one of the reasons this shoe stands out in terms of cushioning.
The thick comfort in the undercarriage of the 1080 v15 makes it one of our prime picks for impact cushioning. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Slightly more speed-focused, the Asics Novablast 5's heel sits at a towering 40 mm. The shape and stack of this shoe offer joint protection similar to other high-stack shoes, but it also delivers a responsive energy that runners who want to push themselves will delight in.
The Novablast rises taller than many of the other shoes in our lineup, yet it does an impressive job balancing its high-stack design with both stability and speed. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Our most highly recommended shoe for beginning runners, the Saucony Ride 19, also boasts a newly reconfigured midsole with fantastic underfoot cushioning. Much like the 1080 v15 and the Novablast 5, the Ride's cushioning avoids feeling too packed or like you're sinking, which creates a sense of stability to help keep joints moving comfortably in the right direction.
For runners who want to find comfort, underfoot cushioning, and reliability, the Ride 19 is one of our top recommendations. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Runners who are looking for the highest stack shoe for long runs or days on their feet will find the sky-high Hoka Bondi 9 to be a shoe worth taking for a spin. The Bondi's foam feels a bit more airy and firm than the aforementioned kicks, which adds to its longevity. Much like the others, the balanced firmness and supple softness culminate to create stability and help runners avoid feeling like they are slogging through peanut butter.
The generous underfoot stack of the Bondi makes it a smooth, mellow cruiser of a shoe built for runners who want to take things slow and comfortably. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Breathability
When assessing breathability, we look for uppers that allow sufficient airflow to keep your feet comfortably cool without compromising structure or support. Materials like engineered mesh, knit designs, and strategically placed ventilation zones help prevent overheating and moisture buildup, which can reduce discomfort, rubbing, and the risk of blisters on longer or warmer runs. Considering your typical running climate, the warmth of your feet, and whether you prefer a softer or more structured upper, can help guide you toward the level of breathability that best matches your needs.
If your running routine takes you across scalding terrain, breathability is key for comfort. If your legs steer you through sidewalks coated with the occasional coating of snow, a more thickly woven shoe might be best. If most of your runs take place in climate-controlled gyms or studios, breathability won't be quite as big a consideration for you.
The thin mesh upper of the New Balance Rebel v5 offers excellent ventilation for runners who value serious airflow. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL, and the Hoka Mach 7 are all designed to feel lightweight and fresh, allowing air to flow freely through the uppers to help keep feet cool during running. These models utilize thin, breathable materials that prevent heat from building up, even as the miles accumulate. For runners who prefer airy, low-profile shoes that remain comfortable in warmer conditions, these three stand out as reliable and well-ventilated options.
Designed to be incredibly lightweight, the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo features very obvious holes across its upper. Not only does this design allow the shoe to be one of the lightest on the market, but it keeps air moving freely as your run heats up. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Shoes designed to be lightweight, such as the profoundly weightless Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo (4.44 ounces per women's size 6.5), often shed upper weight, thereby increasing breathability with visible holes across its very perforated upper.
Traction
When evaluating traction, we consider how well a shoe grips the running surface, which is crucial for maintaining stability, preventing slips, and supporting efficient strides. Key factors include the rubber compound, outsole pattern, and groove depth, all of which influence grip on wet, dry, or uneven terrain. Thinking about where and how you typically run, roads, trails, or mixed surfaces, can help you choose a shoe with the right balance of grip, durability, and flexibility to keep each step confident and secure.
Trail Running Shoes
If you are more interested in rocky trails and heading off the beaten path, our trail running shoe review will have better options for you, many of which beautifully crossover to road running.
Shoes that prioritize stability often have the most detailed, grippy traction patterns compared to those that emphasize speed. The Brooks Glycerin 23 and the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 fit this bill. The Adrenaline 25 is a stability shoe that offers a fantastic balance of structure and underfoot grip. While not exactly ready to tackle trails, the Adrenaline's outsole features a rubber compound that helps you feel secure as you run.
While not a trail running shoe, we feel confident enough to take on local, rolling trails in the updated Adrenaline thanks to its strong traction. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Altra Torin 8, Brooks Ghost Max 3, and Brooks Ghost 17 all offer similarly reliable traction. None of these shoes is built for speed, but they are designed to help you feel confident as you jog around corners and run on damp pavement.
Shoes built for stability, like the Hoka Bondi 9, tend to feature wider outsoles with strong traction, underscoring their confidence-boosting vibes. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Lighter shoes, such as the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, often have less robust traction but feel more responsive underfoot. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize the features you want before selecting your ideal pair. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Specialty shoes, such as the Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo, are designed to be lightweight and minimal, with minimalization also applied to their outsoles. In an attempt to shed weight, manufacturers often place rubber texturizing on high-wear areas but forgo full-outsole tread. While this application is super functional for racing and speed shoes, it doesn't offer the versatility or underfoot security that daily runners might need. As a result, Sky Tokyo is the lowest scoring for traction.
The On Cloudsurfer Max is a comfortable and cute road running shoe. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is a pillowy soft road runner with a stretchy upper. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Asics Superblast 2. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Mizuno Neo Vista women's running shoes. Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Nike Vomero 18 is a high-cushioned running shoe. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Other Notable Women's Road Running Shoes
We've tested dozens of other road shoes. Here are some other compelling options that didn't win awards or didn't make the cut:
Asics Superblast 2 — This high-stack model is the answer for runners who want both serious cushioning and serious speed. We love it for everything from training to racing to recovery, but it is expensive.
Mizuno Neo Vista — One of the thickest stacks on a shoe we've ever seen provides serious bounce and impressive cushioning that heel-strikers will love on daily runs.
Nike Vomero 18 — Despite its above-average weight, it's well-balanced and has durable cushioning that makes it a workhorse over long distances and at moderate speeds.
On Cloudsurfer 2 — A continually popular model from a popular brand, this updated version of the Cloudsurfer works well as a limited-cushioning walking shoe or gym shoe, and can handle occasional short runs.
Puma Deviate Nitro 3 — With solid all-around performance, this carbon-plated shoe is comfortable and versatile, standing out for its notably excellent traction on wet surfaces and around tight corners.
Saucony Tempus 2 — This stability-focused shoe doesn't feel like a typical stability shoe, keeping solid focus on energy return. It's a great option for those who only need some stability but still want to run fast. This option is currently on sale for almost half off. A new addition could be coming out, so if it appeals to you, it could be a great time to get a screaming deal.
Altra Vanish Tempo — A niche shoe that feels natural during speed training, but lacks the zero-drop wide-foot feeling that Altra fans have come to love.
Hoka Skyward X — Unique, with a propulsive carbon plate and exceptional comfort. As much as we adore its cushion, it's extremely heavy and costly; there are far more comfortable shoes for far less.
Nike Pegasus Plus — A popular trainer, though its firm underfoot feel, narrow toebox, and limited stability make it a better gym shoe than a true running shoe.
The running shoe market is full of wonderful options, which means that once you dial in what you are seeking, you'll be able to find a shoe that brings you joy. Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
The running shoe world is saturated with competitors and full of specialized lingo and misleading marketing. Finding the right shoes for your fitness goals can be daunting. We've put in the miles through comparison testing to bring you the details you need to make the right decision for your running goals. Whether you're a hesitant beginner or an intrepid, seasoned adventurer, there is something here for you.
