The Best Running Shoes of 2025
Updated: February 7, 2025 by Grace Booth and Jonathan Spiros
The moment you start looking for a new running shoe, you may be surprised by the large number of options available. From daily trainers to racing shoes, fast runs shoes to max cushion cruisers, identifying the right shoe for your needs may feel like a daunting task. Regardless, there is no need to worry! Our guide below breaks down the best running shoes for every type of run to help make your choice easy.
Choosing a Running Shoe
We recommend thinking of shopping for new running shoes in the same way you would shop for tools at a hardware store. It's not a matter of what tool looks the coolest or how much it is, right? The goal is to find the tool that meets the specific needs of the project you're working on. The same philosophy should apply to running shoes! To choose the right running shoe, it's important to know what you'll be using them for. How often do you run? Where do you run? If your favorite route takes you on a lot of trails or you simply prefer trail running, then consider trail shoes. If you're training for a race and looking for the latest and greatest shoe tech, then consider a carbon-plated racing shoe. Are you open to buying multiple pairs? The answers to these questions will help narrow your search and lead you to your new favorite running tool.
Choosing the Right Size
Once you identify the right shoe for you, it's also vital that you choose the correct size. Ensuring a comfortable fit is a huge factor when it comes to enjoying running and staying injury free. Whether you're shopping in our retail store or on our website, take the time to make sure you're getting the right fit, as every shoe fits differently. And if you're wondering how you can get a proper fit while shopping online, we've got you covered. Head on over to our fit guide on how to choose the right size.
How We Made Our Picks
Every year our team of experts tests and reviews all the newest running shoes in order to discover the latest and greatest options available. From neutral running shoes to stability shoes, road racing to trail running shoes, we have tested them all so you don't have to. After putting in the miles, we huddle together and curate our "best of" lists with the hopes of getting you into the perfect pair of shoes for your next run.
The Best Running Shoes of 2025
- Best All-Around Running Shoe ASICS Novablast 5
- Best Max Cushioning Running Shoe New Balance More v5
- Best For Running Shoe For Fast Runs Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
- Best Stability Running Shoe ASICS Gel Kayano 31
- Best Running Shoe for Racing adidas adizero Adios Pro 4
- Best Trail Running Shoe HOKA Challenger 7
Best All-Around Running Shoe
In this category, we're zeroing in on shoes that we consider to be our everyday workhorse—the ones that we log most of our daily mileage in. Whether you feel like a 20-minute jog around town or you're training for a race and need to get in 10-plus miles, these shoes will help you get the job done in comfort.
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ASICS Novablast 5
Since version 3 of the ASICS Novablast was introduced September 2022, it has been a favorite shoe among our testers and customers. The Novablast 5 (introduced December 2024) increased comfort with a more supple upper. A new midsole foam, FF Blast Max, enhanced the softness of the shoe while add a little more bounce. The result is an extremely comfortable shoe that excels for standard runs and slow runs. But what we love about this shoe is its versatility. It's not at the level of super trainers, but if you want to pick up the pace, the shoe works easily with your increased effort.
Best Max Cushion Running Shoe
Max cushioned shoes are ideal for runners and walkers who are willing to deal with a little bit of extra weight in order to get the most cushioned experience as they log their daily miles or long runs.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
The cushioned feel of the New Balance More v5 certainly lives up to its name. In this case, the more cushioning, the better. This shoe may feel a bit heavy at first, but it isn't as noticeable once you get going in them. Our staff could not get enough of the Fresh Foam midsole. Every stride felt protective yet incredibly soft. We rate this shoe as the perfect choice for easy days and recovery miles and great for avid walkers who want an ultra-cushioned underfoot feel. Expect your legs to feel better after your run than before it. Seriously.
Best Running Shoe for Fast Runs
For speed and tempo workouts, Fast Run shoes help propel you forward with high-energy-return foams, stiffening elements like plates, and specific geometries (shapes). Here are our top picks for running fast.
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Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
Coming in hot in this category is a shoe that will not only satisfy your need for speed but will do so in style. Enter the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4. The Endorphin Speed has been a staff favorite since its first introduction a few years ago, and our love has grown with each iteration. Highlighting this version is an added stack of one of our favorite midsole foams, PWRRUN PB, and a nylon plate that utilizes a winged geometry to improve stability. The PWRRUN PB foam midsole is as resilient as ever and delivers the energetic and efficient ride we need during hard efforts. The added stability provided by the winged geometry and FORMFIT upper makes this shoe versatile enough to handle daily miles as well. But make no mistake—the Endorphin Speed is an uptempo shoe, and one we keep finding ourselves reaching for on those speed days. Chef's kiss.
Honorable Mention: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
Another shoe that deserves a mention in this category is the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4. Thanks to the massive success of the previous model, this latest iteration was highly anticipated, and here at Running Warehouse, we were not disappointed! Once again, the soft and bouncy FuelCell midsole foam was the star of the show and continued to provide us with an energetic and snappy ride no matter the distance. Like the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, the FuelCell Rebel is an uptempo shoe that is stable and comfortable enough to handle daily miles, so feel free to lace these up on most days. We also have to highlight the fantastic price point. For everything you get with this shoe, $140 is a steal, and you'd be hard-pressed to find another shoe at that price level that performs as well as the Rebel v4.
Check out our full review of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
Best Stability Running Shoe
As the market starts to trend further toward neutral shoes that offer inherent stability for overpronators, some staples will continue to live long and prosper. Here is our top pick.
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ASICS Gel Kayano 31
As one of the most iconic running shoes on the market, the latest version of the ASICS Gel Kayano claims our top spot in the stability shoe ranking. A daily training running shoe in the maximum stability category, version 31 offers all the cushioning and support you need to tackle any distance. This shoe is equipped with FLYTEFOAM BLAST PLUS ECO foam in the midsole, giving the Kayano more bounce and cushioning than we've seen in the past. Another highlight of this shoe is the 4D Guidance system, which provides seamless support that both overpronators and neutral runners can enjoy. This model not only runs smoother than any other Kayano we've tried, but it also offers more protection and stability, which is always a welcome upgrade.
Best Running Shoes for Racing
Carbon fiber-plated running shoes, commonly called super shoes, have ruled the marathon racing scene for the past few years. With their highly efficient design and record-breaking performances, the trend is not stopping anytime soon. Super shoes represent the best of the elite-level racing options. Check out our guide to The Best Carbon-Plated Shoes.
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adidas adziero Adios Pro 4
When picking the best racing shoe we consider elite level performance and approachable functionality. Some of the top super shoes are very aggressive and are limited in who can benefit from their greatness. The adizero Adios Pro 4 has a platform that works well for a broad range of runners, but it also delivers top-end, elite performance. This fourth version has a more accommodating fit than it's predecessor and come in a half ounce lighter. We chose the adios Pro 4 as our top pick because we find it to have top-end performance. But it's also inclusive, meaning it works well for a lot of runners.
Best Trail Running Shoe
When it's time to hit the dirt, you'll need something a bit more rugged. With grippy outsoles, tougher uppers, and hazard-ready midsoles, the following shoes have what you need to comfortably tackle the unforgiving wilderness. We've outlined two of our favorite all-around trail running shoes that we feel confident any runner can enjoy, but if your're looking for more trail shoe options, check out our guide to The Best Trail Running Shoes.
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Best Trail Running Shoe: HOKA Challenger 7
The HOKA Challenger is a beloved favorite among trail enthusiasts. Well known for its plush comfort and versatile performance, this latest version continues to impress with updates that cater to road-to-trail runners and loyal HOKA fans alike. The Challenger 7 prioritizes comfort and protection, making it ideal for long, easy trail runs or seamless transitions from road to trail. Featuring a softer CMEVA midsole and HOKA's signature rocker geometry, the ride remains smooth and enjoyable, perfect for maintaining a steady pace over varied terrain. With its new Durabrasion outsole rubber and redesigned lug pattern, the HOKA Challenger 7 is a highly versatile shoe ready to tackle any terrain.
FAQ
How often should I replace my running shoes?
There are a number of signs that tell you whether it's time to replace your current running shoes. How many miles are on them? How do they feel during your runs? For a detailed answer, check out this article
How many pairs of running shoes should I have?
If you're the type of runner who runs most days of the week, has multiple races on the calendar, or loves to mix it up on the trails, then it sounds like a running rotation is right for you! However, if you would rather have one shoe that can handle all of your training and racing needs, consider a do-it-all shoe such as the ASICS Novablast or HOKA Clifton.
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