Best Running Shoes of 2024

How do you typically run? Maybe you’re more of a jogger. Maybe you go for a distance. Or, maybe you like to go full out, focusing on speed and endurance. Whatever your style, the shoe has to fit the purpose. By fit, we mean the ability to provide adequate support for the run. Without it, you could suffer from patellar tendonitis.

Our easy-to-followrunning shoe fit guide should help you navigate your running shoe selection.

For the runners who like to go and go, aiming for longer distances, then lasting support and adequate cushioning will be at the top of the list of requirements. You’ll also want a pair that will stay together throughout all of the miles you will be putting on them. Long-lasting durability will be an important factor there. You can go for long-distance shoes.

If you go for speed, then look for lightweight running sneakers. You will probably want something with as little mass as possible. A shoe that is able to provide exceptional response and just enough cushion to support your run, are some ideal factors to look for. What if you usually take light, but longer jogs?

Footwear such as trainers would most likely be a good fit for that role. Look for a shoe that provides ample cushioning and good stability, all in a package that is lightweight and breathable. Check out some additional factors to look out for below!

What is your arch type?

Not all runners have the same type of foot--and the biggest difference often lies in our arch type. If you have neutral arches, you won't need a lot of added support and can opt for neutral running shoes. On the other hand, if you have high arches you will need shoes that have additional cushioning to fit your needs. And, if you have low arches, you will definitely need to look for shoes that address your support and pronation needs.

Read also about best neutral running shoes.

Do you have any pronation issues to address?

If you know you are an overpronator or an underpronator, then you need to make sure to look for shoes that will help correct the issue when you run in them. If you aren't sure there are two easy ways to test it out:

1. Check and see if there are wear patterns on the soles of your shoes for running. If you over or under pronate you will notice excessive wear on certain parts of the shoe.
2. Conduct the Wet Feet test. This is done by wetting the bottom of your feet and walking on cardboard. Once you do this examine and compare your footprint to see if you have any pronation issues.

Who wants to go for a long run in an uncomfortable pair of shoes? Nobody that I know is jumping with joy at the chance to do that! Comfort is obviously a huge factor when shopping around for any type of footwear. They have to feel as on your feet after a run as they did before it. Sounds pretty straight forward, but we had to take into consideration that all feet are different.

What works well for one person, may not be so great for another. In our list, we included some options that provide the fit and support needed for issues such as pronation, wide feet, flat feet, and plantar fasciitis. Those who over or under pronate will typically need appropriately directed support to correct the foot’s position inside the footwear.

Whereas those with plantar fasciitis will need that support plus adequate cushioning to allow a less painful running experience. Runners with flat feet will need the necessary mid support to keep the center of their foot from dropping. And, those who have higher arches will need the much-needed support in the center to eliminate the weight stress that would be put on the arch if left unsupported.

The fit of the upper to the shock absorption and cushioning of the midsole all play a huge part in the overall comfort of certain shoes for running. We researched specs product information and a lot of customer feedback pertaining to different brands and their models, narrowing our list down to ten shoes of 2020 out there on the market now.

No matter where you run or what the weather is like, you usually want your footwear to breathe. Well ventilated shoes are more comfortable for longer amounts of time, but can also prevent issues related to moisture and bacteria. We looked for models which had uppers constructed with lightweight materials such as mesh or even knitted fabric.

The idea is to have as much airflow coming and going, while also maintaining the structure and upper integrity of the shoe. Most brands have their own name for their breathable upper designs. For example, Nike uses their Flyknit material, which almost looks like that in a sweater, but with lightweight man-made materials that are suitable for a running shoe.

Breathable running sneakers will allow air to move through and escape the shoe, which helps control moisture buildup. Whether you are running in colder climates or under the sweltering sun, breathability is a huge deal. it not only affects your performance, but proper airflow and ventilation can also help cut down on issues like the build-up of bacteria as well as other smelly and problematic issues caused by lingering moisture.

When we took a look at the overall flexibility of the shoes we evaluated. there were several factors we took into consideration. Before going over them, it is important to note that you need to make sure to consider your own specific needs when you do your own research. Make sure to consider the type of flexibility you need, not just we rate as the absolute best.

Do the shoes allow for your natural stride?

The appropriate amount of flexibility means that the feet can function as naturally as possible, even while inside the shoes. A pair that are stiff and don’t give way for the natural movement of the feet will, first off, be very uncomfortable after only a short while. Second, the chance of foot fatigue will occur a whole lot sooner, as your feet will be fighting against the resistance to move more freely. And third, without that ability of more naturally functioning feet, your performance and speed will be hampered quite a bit.

Can a pair of running sneakers be too flexible?

On the other hand, too flexible isn’t always the most appropriate choice either. A sole that is extremely flimsy, with almost zero resistance, will probably be a good sign that the shoe also doesn’t offer much in the way of needed support.

Do the shoes have a break in period?

This is important because there are shoes for running that have a little bit of a break in period when it comes to overall comfort and flexibility. This is because sometimes we have to get into the shoes and moving in them to get them used to our feet and the range of motion we need. Having a break in period is not a bad thing, it just means you have to use them a few times before you get used to them.