Running for fun and fitness is a very common activity these days. There are good reasons for it. It can lengthen our life, build strong bones and muscles, and relieve stress. But it also puts quite a strain on our feet. That’s because modern runners tend to run on hard surfaces that our bodies aren’t designed for. This can cause severe long-term damage for those who don’t take the threat seriously. Because of this, every good runner knows to take care of their feet with a good pair of running shoes. This article looks at some of the best pairs of running shoes available on the market today. Keep in mind that this is just a primer. There are hundreds of good pairs out there, and every foot needs the right one.
1 – New Balance Fuel Cell RC Elite v2
As the second iteration of the New Balance FuelCell RC Elite series, the v2 improves on its predecessor in almost every way. It has a thicker midsole made of ultra-soft foam and a higher stack size that gives a comfortably cushioned feeling when running. It’s a bit heavier than its predecessor, but the extra comfort more than makes up for that disadvantage. They’re also equipped with a carbon fiber plate that helps the wearer store the energy of each heel strike and convert it into a stronger push-off for the next step.
2 – Brooks Ghost 14
If it’s possible for a 107-year-old brand to feel fresh and innovative, then the Brooks Ghost 14 running shoes do it. They’re a favorite of long-distance runners and casual runners alike because they balance the difference between softness and stiffness – making them perfect for any running pace on any terrain. The definition of a neutral running shoe, it’s a workhorse that can be worn for years without showing serious signs of wear and tear.
3 – Asics magic speed
The Asics Magic Speed is another neutral running shoe designed for racing and training runs alike. They feature Asics’ FF Blast midsole, which offers just the right amount of cushioning to match their mid-length carbon fiber plates. They also feature a ventilated mesh upper that makes them super breathable and comfortable to wear for long periods, especially in the heat. But they also offer a nice, snug fit that gives a sense of stability as you run. They borrow part of their design from the higher-end Asics MetaRacers – but manage to significantly improve their price point.
4 – Saucony Endorphin Pro 2
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 has received rave reviews from almost everyone who has tried it. Some testers even call it the most comfortable running shoe you can buy. But they don’t put comfort above everything else. Despite their comfort, they are fast and light with an extra thick rubber outsole that should make them very durable. They’re also available for up to $50 less than comparable models, making them the perfect combination of budget-friendliness and high performance.
5 – Newton Gravity+
While not as profiled as the other running shoes on this list, the Newton Gravity+ has something they don’t have. They feature a patented system that Newton calls Action/Reaction™ technology. It was designed to create a trampoline-like support system that helps runners conserve energy and run farther and faster than they otherwise could. In independent tests, runners who had never used the system before were 1% more efficient. But in an activity where seconds count, this is a crucial advantage. Like most innovations, they’re somewhat controversial in the running community, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth trying.