The 5 Best Women's Running Shoes of 2024

Whether you enjoy daily jogs around the neighborhood, clocking in miles on the road or trails, are training for a 5K or a marathon, or cross-training at the gym, wearing the right pair of running shoes makes all the difference when it comes to comfort and performance. For female runners especially, having comfortable running shoes is as important as selecting the right sports bra.

Running shoes, as opposed to sneakers, have specialized technology to help you run more efficiently and prevent injury. From everyday training to off-road adventures, choosing the best running shoe depends on the kind of running you want to do and the type of terrain you will be on. When trail running, you need trail-specific shoes designed with pronounced lugs in the outsole for better grip and durability in rougher conditions (such as rocky, dirty, or muddy trails). Learn more about the specific features of trail shoes and what to look for in our article How to Choose a Trail Running Shoe. For road running, versatile everyday trainers provide cushioned support and responsiveness, while lightweight racing shoes help with increased energy return for a more propulsive ride. Running shoes also come in neutral or stability options. Stability shoes are designed to correct overpronation in runners where the ankle rolls excessively inward. Lastly, having the right size and fit are crucial components in finding the best shoe that works for you. The shoe should wrap comfortably around your foot and accommodate your specific foot shape (narrow, wide, or standard). Discover how to accurately measure your foot size and find your width in our article How to Find Your Running Shoe Size and Fit.

Here at Running Warehouse, we researched and tested tons of running shoes to discover the latest and greatest options available with a women's-specific fit. Whether you're looking for plush comfort for daily mileage, durable traction for the trail, or carbon-plated speed for race day, our guide will help you find the best shoes for your next run. Check out our list of the top 5 best women's running shoes of 2024:

A soft yet light daily trainer, the HOKA Clifton 9 is a highly cushioned, neutral running shoe that performs at any distance. With a comfortable upper and a well-cushioned midsole, the Clifton is a perfect everyday option for runners of all levels. From novices to elite athletes, it's no wonder this classic has a reputation for reliability and remains a favorite for its ultra-smooth ride. The latest iteration features an additional 3 mm foam in the stack height while weighing less for a better underfoot experience. For pillowy soft cushioning that is inviting on every run, the HOKA Clifton 9 continues to deliver on both performance and ultimate comfort, which is why it gets our vote as the best-cushioned running shoe of the year.

Honorable Mentions: New Balance 1080 v13

New Balance's 1080 is a worthy competitor in the best-cushioned category and well-deserving of a shout-out thanks to its high level of cushioning and responsive feel. The latest iteration has seen a total revamp in its design with even more soft foam, a more pronounced rocker geometry in the midsole, and a stiffer forefoot for quicker heel-to-toe transitions. The updated midsole features an elevated level of Fresh Foam X compound for a plush and more responsive feel underfoot. Finished off with a lighter rubber outsole, the 1080 v13 provides solid traction and grip on various road conditions without adding extra weight. Overall, the NB 1080 v13 is an exceptionally cushioned and soft daily trainer that will have you looking good and feeling comfortable mile after mile.

Honorable Mentions: HOKA Bondi 8

Extremely plush without feeling heavy, the Bondi 8 is the most cushioned road shoe in HOKA's lineup and merits special recognition in the best cushioned shoe category. The latest iteration is all about taking things to the max, offering maximum cushioning, comfort, and underfoot protection (without weighing the wearer down). For long runs and recovery days, the Bondi 8 delivers a smooth and balanced ride over any distance.

For a low-profile stability shoe that is versatile, supportive, and stylish, the Brooks Adrenaline 23 delivers on all counts. With its sleek design, comfortable cushioning, and reliable support, it's no surprise that the Adrenaline has been the go-to shoe for so many runners over the years. Utilizing the brand's GuideRail technology, the Adrenaline GTS 23 offers a natural feeling of support that guides the foot straight through the gait cycle, while the lighter and softer cushioning in the midsole ensures a comfortable run. With enough comfort and durability for both long runs and daily training, the Adrenaline GTS 23 earns our vote for the best stability running shoe around.

Honorable Mentions: HOKA Arahi 7

The HOKA Arahi has built a loyal following over the last few years, justifiably becoming one of the most popular stability options on the market. Before the Arahi, overpronators had to run in heavy, rigid shoes, but then this game-changer came along. With a smooth, natural ride thanks to its J-frame design (eliminating any harsh medial posting) and lightweight, comfortable construction, the Arahi is a breath of fresh air for overpronators. Newly updated with an engineered flat knit upper for improved midfoot lockdown, and a plusher tongue with a stretchy dual gusset beneath the lace line for a stay-put fit, the Arahi 7 continues to be a fan favorite in the stability shoe category.

Honorable Mentions: ASICS Gel Kayano 30

The Gel Kayano 30 is an ASICS legend that is another great stability alternative for any runner. With an all-new support system and a softer ride, the Kayano 30 is ready to help overpronators on their daily runs. The latest iteration features a new 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM for adaptive stability and a more supportive and balanced stride, a revamped FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole with an additional 4 mm stack height of added cushioning for step-in comfort, and new PureGEL Technology for softer landings and a smoother ride. With more cushioning, support, and protection, the Kayano is a comfortably reliable and fun stability option.

Bouncier and lighter with a comfortable fit, ASICS Novablast 4 is a highly efficient performance trainer that is one of the most versatile shoes on the market. Upgraded with FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, this latest iteration has the same smooth and bouncy ride but in a more sustainable package. Added foam in the forefoot and heel and a trampoline pod outsole with added grip delivers more bounce and energy with every step. The engineered woven upper offers ventilation and durability with its soft, premium feel and adaptable, breathable fit. Sustainably made, the ASICS Novablast gives runners a cushioned and responsive ride while providing lots of underfoot protection without weighing or slowing them down. Combining a race-day feel with any-day comfort and durability—the Novablast 4 is the best all-around shoe for the runner looking to amplify her performance.

Honorable Mentions: Brooks Ghost 15

With its soft yet responsive cushioning, the Brooks Ghost 15 is a great crossover running shoe that you can take from the gym to your longer workouts on the road. Thanks to its stylish and comfortable upper and excellent cushioning, the Ghost is a staff favorite and the most popular neutral, everyday running shoe in the Brooks lineup. In this newest model, the Ghost 15 now offers even softer cushioning and a smoother ride, making it a perfect daily training option for all runners. For easy miles, long runs and everything in between, the Brooks Ghost 15 continues to deliver on performance, fit, and looks.

Honorable Mentions: Nike Zoom Pegasus 40

A perennial classic, the Nike Zoom Pegasus has been a staple in the running industry for years, and the 40 still performs great for everything from easy training days to faster runs. With a midsole that can do it all and an improved fit, the Nike Zoom Pegasus 40 has the comfort and versatility to cater to any run and any level of runner. Designed with dual Zoom Air units tuned specifically for women, the Pegasus provides a responsive ride, lower pressure for a softer feel, and more bounce and durability. The latest iteration has a new engineered mesh upper for improved foot comfort and breathability. The shoe's versatility extends to its stylish design, which looks great at the gym, as athleisure wear, or even paired with casual everyday clothes.

For comfortable cushioning on long trail runs, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 is our top trail running shoe that can really do it all. The Speedgoat features durable lugs for amazing traction on all types of terrain, along with a new upper for an improved fit that you can enjoy for mile after mile. The latest model offers more traction and less weight, thanks to an upgraded Vibram Megagrip outsole and a lighter CMEVA midsole compound for a springier ride. Whether you want a reliable daily trail shoe or a highly cushioned workhorse for your next race, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 has you covered in style.

Honorable Mentions: Altra Lone Peak 8

A cult legend in the trail community, the Altra Lone Peak 8 continues its legacy as a fan favorite, offering enhanced comfort and protection for technical trail runs and long distances alike. Designed with FootShape technology, the Lone Peak 8 specifically addresses the anatomical differences in a woman's feet by accommodating her narrower heel and midfoot, higher instep, longer arch, and unique metatarsal spacing. The shoe has a plush layer of responsive foam for added underfoot protection and grippy multi-directional lugs for better traction on versatile terrain. The latest iteration has a refined upper with Ripstop Mesh to enhance durability and adds value to the overall design. Thanks to its zero-drop platform, the Altra Lone Peak offers a nimble ride and a natural running experience for a wide range of trail runners.

Honorable Mentions: HOKA Torrent 3

Lightweight yet cushioned with an agile feel, the HOKA Torrent 3 provides the perfect balance of protective cushioning and nimbleness you need to traverse a variety of terrain at blazing speeds. Whether running an ultramarathon, racing the clock for an FKT, or hiking your local trails, the Torrent 3 can do it all. The latest iteration features a more breathable upper with a lighter design, thanks to a single-layer engineered mesh with a TPU overlay for added support, and a more durable rubber outsole on uneven terrain. With an improved stripped-back upper for a comfortable fit and stickier lugs for a durable grip, the women's Torrent 2 is the jane of all trails.

For the woman who has a need for speed, the Nike Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 is a highly cushioned, carbon fiber-plated racing shoe designed to shatter marathon records and PRs at any pace. As Nike's newest marathon racer, the Alphafly integrates cutting-edge technology for increased efficiency and maximizes energy return for top performance. Featuring dual Zoom Air units in the forefoot, a full-length carbon fiber plate, and the highest-volume ZoomX midsole of any performance racer, the Alphafly Next% 2 delivers ultimate propulsion while providing an unreal level of cushioning. Fast and lightweight, the Alphafly Next% 2 will take your racing to the next level.

Honorable Mentions: Saucony Endorphin Pro 4

With bouncy cushioning and an efficient rocker design, Saucony's Endorphin Pro 4 makes running at top speed feel easier for faster finish times. The latest iteration features a dual-layer midsole with Sauony's ultra-responsive PWRRUN HG cushioning in the top layer combined with PWRRUN PB foam for an overall more energetic underfoot experience. With a carbon-fiber plate embedded between the two layers of foam, this racer stands toe-to-toe with the very best shoes in the field. The Speedroll rocker technology provides a propulsive feel, pushing you to run faster and more efficiently. The Endorphin Pro 4 also features a race-ready upper with an integrated tongue design and smooth heel liner to help provide a better lockdown and a comfortable fit for speeding ahead. Offering durability and protection while keeping weight to a minimum, the Endorphin Pro 4 has what it takes to get you to the finish line at breaking speed.

Shop Best Women's Shoes of the Year

FAQ

• Do I need women's-specific running shoes?

Women's-specific running shoes are designed to address the physiological and biomechanical differences between men's and women's feet (such as a wider forefoot and narrower heel in females). To accommodate the anatomical gender differences for enhanced support and performance, women's-specific running shoes are made from women's-specific lasts as opposed to unisex molds. Ultimately, it comes down to personal choice and selecting the shoe that feels the most comfortable for your unique foot shape and size.

• How often should I replace my running shoes?

There are several telltale signs indicating whether it's time to replace your current running shoes. How many miles have you racked up on them? How do they feel during your runs? Are there visible markings of wear and tear in the outsole or midsole? Are you experiencing any aches or pains in your body? It's important to replace worn-out shoes to avoid injuries. For more detailed information on what to look for, check out our article.

• How much should I spend on running shoes?

The amount you spend on running shoes is dependent upon several factors such as what your budget is, how often you run, and whether you have injury concerns. The shoes that made the list in our article range anywhere from $100 to $275.

• How many pairs of running shoes should I have?

From injury prevention and durability to training at different speeds and on versatile terrains, there are several benefits to owning multiple pairs of shoes (even just for the fun factor of added variety). If you're typically running most days of the week, have multiple races on the calendar, or just love to add some variety to your routine, then it sounds like a running rotation is right for you!