The baseline definition of a running shoe. Daily Trainers lean on time-proven designs, technologies and features for dependable cushioning, support and comfort. They're a staple in every runner's closet, and if you are new to running shoes, then you should start your journey here.

Performance Trainers provide a springy feel and make longer runs easier and faster runs faster. While quicker than Daily Trainers, Performance Trainers are not nearly as fast as Super Shoes. Due to a focus on keeping things light weight, Performance Trainers are less durable than Daily Trainers. These can also be a good option for one's first race shoe.

Super Shoes are the fastest running shoes you can buy. They are designed to race your absolute best and represent the pinnacle of running shoe technology and innovation. They have the highest energy return foams and plates for new levels of performance. Low durability, but maximum speed is the name of the game here.

Road running shoes feature smooth outsoles that are designed for running on paved surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and bike paths.

Designed to handle most trail runs, these shoes prioritize comfort and a smooth ride. These shoes are great for anything from smooth singletrack, park trails, and fireroads making them ideal for those who run from their doorstep on streets before hitting the trail.

These shoes are best used for hard, rugged trails such as shale, granite or sandstone where grip on smooth surfaces and underfoot protection are important.

Designed for use in muddy, soggy conditions, these shoes feature very aggressive outsoles that dig deep into soft ground for exceptional traction.

These shoes feature technical outsoles designed to grip snowy and icy trails making them ideal for winter trail running.

Cushioning level, or stack height, refers to how much shoe is between your foot and the ground. For this category, we reference the amount of cushioning below the forefoot as the heel height will be equal to or greater than the forefoot height.

Learn more about stack heights and how we measure them.

0-13mm. The Shoe generally does not have a midsole and feels like there is no cushioning. This shoe is all about feeling the ground underfoot.

14-18mm. The shoe has a thin midsole that allows for a natural running experience. Racing shoes and minimalist shoes are common here. These shoes offer a feeling of being connected to the road or trail.

19-23mm. The shoe has a slightly cushioned feel and may feature added cushioning technologies. Performance training shoes and some trail shoes are common here. These offer protection during footstrike but prioritize a lightweight, grounded experience.

24-28mm. These shoes have a stack height that fall near the middle of the spectrum.The shoes in this category are verstaile and great for all types of runs and distances.

29-34mm. The shoe has a thick midsole and ample cushioning. These shoes are highly protective and absorb more impact than the body.

35mm plus. The shoe has an extremely thick midsole and extra cushioning. The focus is on protection and soft foam underfoot with hardly any ground feel.

Neutral shoes support the foot through a normal range of arch collapse and generally do not have a built-in technology to correct movement.

Stability shoes are a great option for those who overpronate or need added support. These shoes help to limit the inward rolling motion of the ankle while running or walking and assist in guiding the foot straight through the gait cycle.