8 Best Jogging Shoes Reviewed in 2021
Brian Price 
AnaN Our 8 best jogging shoes lineup offers some of the most cushioned, comfortable and stable options you can find today. We spent hours researching and reviewing them so you can spend less time searching and more time running in comfort.
You can also scroll through and find more info on just what we look for in the best jogging shoes. Our Criteria and FAQs sections are there to help inform and guide you into the best running sneakers while answering almost any questions you have on what makes our picks the best models out there.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 18 hrs of research
Affordable
Supportive
Extended zoom soul
Added durability
Top 8 Jogging Sneakers
1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
Affordable
Supportive
Extended zoom soul
Added durability
Run a bit big in the collar
Creases some in the toe
Redesigned and extra responsive, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 pushes you forward and enhances your jog with maximum stability. They also offer narrow to extra-wide in sizes to make sure they have everyone covered. The advanced Pegasus 37 even takes the durability to a whole new horizon. In other words, they leveled up.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
One of the best upgrades we found in the Nike Pegasus 37 is the extended compressed air sole throughout the whole base of the foot. You also get extra outer rubber layered sole additions that absorb shock and add traction. This makes landing softer and more secure during your jogs.
Durability/Quality:
All that flywire technology we keep highlighting offers some extraterrestrial-like linkage within the shoe that stabilizes the foot and supports a flexible fluid movement. Extending that zoom pocket also added some support to the shoe as far as landing goes. You are able to feel the shoe absorb throughout impact while adjusting stride and heel to toe transition.
Every single upgrade that we have mentioned so far in the Pegasus 37, in some way or another, is an addition to the durability. The rubber adds protection to the outer part of the rails and outer soul, aiding against wear and tear from debris and other terrain features that can cause damage to the best jogging shoes.
Value/Price:
Nike Pegasus is one of the longest-lasting and most popular model designs by Nike. It has been said to be unrivaled in comfort and now with all the upgraded flywire, rubbery, meshy goodness added with the full bed air zoom, we couldn’t agree more.
2. ASICS Gel-Kayano 27
Gel-support
Stable
Work for supination well
Aesthetically pleasing
Soft inside
Very responsive
Lacks ankle padding
Taller heel cup
The beauty of gel runs deep with ASICS and took them and the Gel-Kayano to the next level in comfortable jogging shoes. Loaded with flex, comfort, and durability features, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 does more than pleasing, it carries you through your run.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
Shock absorbing and smooth transitioning are built into the fore and rearfoot gel technology. ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 hugs the foot and glides with it and the Guidance Line midsole lines up your gait and carries your midfoot from toe to heel. This all makes your jog more fluid with less body impact.
Durability/Quality:
Crash pads and Dura sponge sound like great rides at a theme park, so we’ll just say the support added to the Gel-Kayano 27 is a well-designed carnival ride for your feet. The added arch support by these two features alone creates balance for supination and gives the runner more security in landing while relieving under-foot pressure.
Other great adds to the support are the sock liner and the Heel clutching system. Both work with the foot to stay in place and prevent slippage. The sock liner works against sweat and moisture while the heel clutch uses a plastic cup-like design to secure the foot into place.
Value/Price:
ASICS always seems to offer a mid-range price with a high-end value and the Gel Kayano 27 doesn't defer from that standard. Whether you like to jog, run, HIIT, whatever, these are a great value and a great versatile shoe. It gives you all the comfort, support and durability you need for a great cost.
3. Brooks Ghost 13
Good build quality
Very comfortable
A lot of room for toes
Great fit
For some people, shoes wore out too quickly
The Brooks Ghost 13 jogging shoe is one of the newer brands on the market, but they are already getting good reviews from runners of all experience levels. They offer the support and functionality you want and need along with a healthy dose of stylish and cool designs to choose from!
Read moreComfort/Stability:
Though they look a bit basic compared to some of the other shoes on our list, Ghost 13 is a good option that is worth taking a look at. The soles offer surprising support and stability and the lightweight materials make them easy to wear all day long. You also get good overall comfort and support for the entire foot!
Durability/Quality:
This shoe is designed to be durable and will last a long time. Even the most active runners can run for months before they see any signs of wear and tear start to show up. The quality of these shoes and the fun stylish options that are available makes them a great choice for runners of all types.
Cost/Value:
The biggest drawback to the Ghost 13 by far is the price tag. They are very expensive compared to other running shoes on our list. However, they do offer good quality and amazing designs and color options you will not find anywhere else!
4. Hoka Speedgoat 4
Extra cushioning
Vibram rubber outsole with rubber lugs
EVA midsole
Microfiber overlays
No-sew construction
Available in Men's and Women's sizes
A little pricey
Some users had trouble with the midsole splitting with time and use
The Hoka Speedgoat 4 jogging shoes are highly rated for their comfort. They offer 32 mm of foam in the heel, and also feature 28 mm of foam on the forefoot. You will feel like you are running on clouds. It is perfect for all kinds of terrain. They are especially great for rocky terrain and running through hills.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
The extra cushioning in these shoes is unbeatable, providing excellent comfort as well as stability.
Durability/Quality:
Because of the amount of foam in the forefoot and heels, these shoes are very sturdy and it will take a lot of time jogging to see any kind of wear or tear. The Vibram rubber outsole is durable and fitted with rubber lugs to provide you with more grip, making them a versatile shoe for any terrain.
Value/Price:
Sitting at about the mid-range compared to other shoes on our list, these will definitely be worth the cost. They offer high-quality construction and great cushioning that is sure to keep your feet happy.
5. Merrell Moab 2 Vent
High marks on support levels
Stylish and comfortable
Allows for natural foot movement
A little tight for users with wider feet
Better for trails
Providing great support and stability and a look that is easy to wear no matter what you are doing, these shoes are great for runners of all skill levels. They are a bit pricey but offer superior quality and design that runners appreciate.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
The soles of these shoes are designed to be durable and will help reduce shock impact and are also designed to hold up to long term running on a range of terrains. If you do a lot of running and enjoy doing it on a range of surfaces then the Merrell Moab 2 Vent jogging shoe may be a great option to consider!
Durability/Quality:
Made with quality materials and designed by runners themselves, these shoes are made to last and will last a long time. Unlike other options, they will fit as firm and snug at the end of your run as they do at the start. These jogging shoes will help maximize your performance and get the most out of your runs and workouts.
Price/Value:
As far as price tags go, the Merrell Moab 2 Vent can range from moderately priced options to ones that are a bit expensive. Whatever your budget is, you can find an option from Merrell that gives you the support and durability you need while also providing comfort and value.
6. New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v4
Very comfortable
A lot of cushion material
Thicker rubber on the outside of the shoe
Cushion inside the shoe can wear off easily
The New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v4 has improved comfort and the stability. They opened the fit around the arch and also extended the midfoot saddle by moving it farther forward. The foot is even more cushioned. The outside of the shoe is fitted with thicker rubber that has tiny cuts, that way it improves the flexibility of the shoe.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
The shoe is very comfortable, as it features even more cushioned material. The thicker rubber and tiny cuts in the rubber provide you with more flexibility and as such more comfort while running.
Durability/Quality:
These are very durable shoes. They will last you for a very long time. Thicker rubber prolonged the life of the running shoe even more, and the quality is really great.
Value/Price:
These are not the best option, but are definitely worth looking at. They work well for the casual runner or for a pair of training shoes.
7. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
High quality design
High breathability
Very durable
Packed with high-end features for a low price
Not for wider feet
Mizuno’s newest offering to the jogging world comes packed with features at an extremely low price. Proprietary Double Fan Wave Technology gave testers a lightweight, breathable jogging shoe that is perfect for those longer, hotter outings. Mizuno’s newly redesigned midsole platform gives all other manufacturers a run for their money.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
The shoe has a thick rubber sole and tiny cuts in the rubber are designed to provide you with more flexibility, grip, and control and as such, you can enjoy more comfort while running.
Durability/Quality:
This is an example of a lower end yet still a very durable shoe that is worth considering for your day to day running needs. They will last and hold up well to wear and tear and while they may not be the fanciest looking or the nicest shoes on this list, they are still a smart choice for a beginner or someone looking for a pair of day to day training shoes.
Value/Price:
Mizuno shoes work well for the casual runner. They may not be the ones you want for race day but they will get you where you need to go and will keep your feet comfortable and protected. And that is worth its weight in gold.
8. New Balance Vazee Pace 2
Great build quality
Snug fit
Very durable
They can irritate your skin after longer use
New Balance Vazee Pace 2 are lightweight shoes and provide an incredibly comfortable fit. These shoes are great for long and fast jogging. They provide a „second skin“ fit that gives you extreme comfort.
Read moreComfort/Stability:
New Balance Vazee Pace 2 are very comfortable jogging shoes. Great feature „second skin“ gives you the feeling that the shoes are the part of your feet. They provide great stability as they fit snug around your feet and ankle.
Durability/Quality:
They are very durable and won`t wear off after miles and miles of running. The build quality of the shoes is very impressive, materials are light but very durable.
Value/Price:
This option is definitely worth of the money.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
When looking for the best jogging shoes, we started by looking for shoes that had features designed for your comfort.
Extra cushioning, high-quality materials and smart designs were just some of the qualities at the forefront of this search as well as the right amount of cushioning and padding around the Achilles and a proper heel segment.
We also took into consideration what real people had to say about the shoes and what they preferred in their own footwear. Shopping for comfortable shoes can be tricky when you’re trying them out on the floor of a department store.
We listened to authentic user feedback directly from those who lace these shoes up and use them in real-world applications on a daily basis.
Breathability
Comfortable feet are happy feet, and happy feet make jogging fun and enjoyable!
To keep your feet from overheating or getting blisters you’ll want shoes that have good ventilation. Shoes made from breathable materials that have mesh or vents on the upper part (commonly referred to as “uppers”) will prevent hotspots and let your feet breathe easily.
If you have a common problem with overheating or breathability, consider that it might be time to replace your socks! Even the best shoes with the best breathability won't perform up to par if you have the wrong socks on!
Support
Without proper support, your runs won't be effective, you won't enjoy yourself, and you will not get the results you want.
Buying a supportive shoe is extremely important. Not only will it keep you comfortable as you jog but it will also help prevent any injuries from occurring. It is important to know your running style and foot type in order to pick out a shoe with the support features you need.
Also, shoes with support features like reinforced beams or plates will help with durability as well. We’ve looked at user feedback to see which shoes provided the best support for the long-term.
Terrain
When selecting jogging footwear, make sure the outsole matches your terrain.
As you get your feet wet getting acclimated with jogging (pun intended), you’re also going to want to consider terrain in terms of protection. While terrain typically doesn’t move far from asphalt or treadmill belt, we know there are several of you out there that have the good fortune to live near outdoor trails and running paths. When selecting jogging footwear, make sure the outsole matches your terrain.
An aggressive pattern will give you good traction on loose pebbles and dusty trails. If you think you will be coming across jagged rocks along your outdoor path, you might want to consider an option from our list that possesses a rock plate for an added layer of protection. Remember that safety always comes first out there!
Style
While it might not directly affect your performance, it is important to give some consideration to style when choosing your running shoes.
You’ve taken everything into consideration to ensure that you have a proper fit and have a great match for how you’re going to be enjoying your new jogging shoes. Don’t forget about style when making your selection. Studies have shown that when a runner picks out a shoe they enjoy, they have a tendency to run more.
Motivation is the cornerstone of any healthy regimen and being proud to show off your new jogging shoes may be just the nudge you need to get out there and run.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Comfort
Overall Fit
Ground Feel
Shock Absorption
Value
You may want to be properly assessed prior to making a purchase. Having an expert watch you walk or run to determine your pronation style would be a huge help and likely save you time and money.
Even the highest quality shoe will start to wear down after rigorous use. The terrain can have a big impact on your running. Rough terrain will wear out the outer soles faster than running at the gym will. Pavement pounding can cause cushioning to compact and decrease in support over time too.
Other Factors to Consider
Durability
Sit down and have a look at your feet, specifically the bottom. Do you have a flat, neutral, or high arch? Your arch type should be considered for all footwear that you purchase. Individuals with flat or fallen arches have a tendency to over-pronate. Over-pronation is when your ankle excessively rolls inward when you land. In that case, looking for a stability trainer will help correct this issue and prevent injury.
Runners with a high arch tend to supinate or under-pronate. This is when your ankle rolls outward. Individuals with this type of foot and pronation should look for footwear with more cushioning, especially in the midfoot area. Although jogging shorter distances will not give you the same discomfort associated with long-distance running, it’s a good idea to help your natural foot strike as much as possible.
Now, if you look at your feet and you don’t think that you have too little or too much arch, then you have a neutral foot shape and can choose from a wider selection of footwear. However, if you notice uneven wear on the regions mentioned above, you might want to make a change to counteract your landing.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: I’m just starting out and I have some old tennis shoes that should be good enough, do I really need jogging shoes?
It might seem like a good idea to save money and stick to your old sneakers, but every shoe is designed with a specific purpose in mind and you can’t assume that those dusty shoes in the back of your closet will make a good pair of running shoes.
To prevent injuries and get the most out of your jogs you’re going to want a pair of shoes that match your running style and foot shape as described above. Take our advice and ditch your long-forgotten tennis shoes.
q: How do I know what size I am in a jogging shoe?
You should be able to get your feet measured anywhere they sell shoes so that you know what size shoe you need, but also keep in mind that while jogging your feet will swell. The best way to figure out your size is to measure your foot at the end of the day, or after you’ve done a decent amount of activity.
q: Other than jogging shoes, do I need any particular apparel for jogging?
There are athletic clothes that may be worth investing in depending on what your needs are. Compression gear can help with circulation and recovery. Base layers can keep you warm if you’re out on the trail or jogging in cold weather. If you’re out in the sun you’ll need UV/UB protection and there are even plenty of wearable gadgets out there to enhance your workout.
q: How long can I expect my jogging shoes to last?
Most can get 200-400 miles out of a pair of jogging shoes. While some people track their mileage for each shoe, there are other ways to know if it's time to retire your jogging shoe. First, take a look at the outsole. If the treads are worn smooth or there is excessive wear in any particular area, then it’s time for a new shoe. You can also look at the midsole.
If it is crushed down, then you put yourself at the risk of injury. It is worth considering having two pairs of jogging shoes so that you can rotate them in order to get the best life out of your shoes.
q: How do I take care of my jogging and running shoes?
In general, you will want to wipe your shoes down on a regular basis to remove caked-on dirt and grime. For more intense washing it is best to check the care label for your shoes to see what the manufacturer recommends for care and cleaning.
Sources
- , Difference between running and jogging, Health Website
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