In this product guide:
On the surface, using the word ‘best’ to describe running shoes seems like a pointless exercise in generalization. Running shoes are highly personal, so what’s best for one runner may turn out to be a total disappointment for somebody else. For example, if you’re a forefoot striker who runs faster than 4:30 min/km, then the adidas Adios Pro 4 is an excellent pick for road races up to a marathon. However, if you’re an over-pronator who heel strikes at easy speeds, you’re headed for trouble with the Adios Pro 4’s unstable heel.
Similarly, a wide-footed runner will find a narrow upper uncomfortable. A narrow-footed runner will not find a loose upper to be secure enough. A trail running shoe like the Brooks Cascadia isn’t the best choice for runners who want a speed-friendly, low-profile ride with plenty of proprioceptive feedback. There are so many variables, or the combination of variables, that can make or break a running shoe choice. The sensory aspect is the tie-breaker, with the softer and bouncier shoe being more popular than a firmer shoe with comparable performance.
With all that said, is it possible to condense this buyer’s guide into just six shoe models claiming to be the ‘best’ for individual use cases? What we’ve done here is to pick running shoes that are most likely to work for the general population. We spend countless hours poring over thousands of frames of road races, observing how shoes react to variables such as bodyweight, running speeds, and gait orientations. We have also suggested a few alternatives along with the primary recommendations to help narrow the search.
Behind the Clifton 10’s decade-long success is a reliable and predictable ride. The Clifton was one of the first shoes to introduce max-cushioning to the masses and still stays true to its original brief. The evolution of this shoe has been incremental, with the latest version having the softest ride to date. It also features a higher heel stack height (42 mm) and heel-to-toe drop (8 mm versus 5 mm) than the Clifton 9. On the road, the EVA foam midsole delivers a rubbery-soft cushioning that’s versatile enough for everyday runs, long-distance training runs, or recovery runs. While the midsole has a late-stage rocker, the Clifton isn’t a speed shoe. The softer ride reduces the rocker efficacy, and the midsole lacks any stiff transition components (like a plate).
The Hoka Clifton used to have a narrow fit, but it’s different this time. The secure forefoot has an accommodating fit and a spacious toe box. While an internal gusset or sleeve is absent, the padded tongue is anchored by two lacing loops. This shoe is sold in an optional wide width in most colors, with the triple-black color available in an extra-wide sizing.
Also consider: The Asics Kayano 32 for overpronators, Asics Novablast 5.
At the time of writing this guide, there are two Vomero variants. The first is the Vomero 18, a dual-density trainer that’s versatile enough for everyday runs. The second model is the Vomero Plus, a mega-stacked cushioned trainer perfect for recovery runs and long runs at easy speeds. This shoe is the successor to the Nike Invincible 3, but with ride-related refinements and a sharpened focus. The 45 mm and 35 mm tall midsole is made entirely of the soft and bouncy ZoomX foam. A late-stage forefoot rocker offers some assistance during roll-offs, but getting fast miles out of this shoe is a challenge. While the midsole isn’t mushy, the foot still has to work through the tall stack of foam. The ideal speed range for Vomero Plus is 4:30 min/km (7:00 min/mile) and slower.
The plush upper complements the max-stack midsole. The soft tongue, padded heel, and snug forefoot deliver reliable lockdown. The Vomero Plus is also sold in an optional extra-wide (4E) size. One final thing – the interiors tend to run hot due to the thick mesh and foam-quilted tongue.
Also consider: The Brooks Glycerin Max.
- Nike’s marketing pitch: Full-stack, ultra-soft max cushioning.
- Upper: Textured mesh with reflective details and midfoot lining, no sleeve.
- Upper fit: True to size, just-right fit.
- Midsole: 100% ZoomX foam, Ortholite insole. 10 mm heel drop.
- Outsole: Single-piece carbon rubber.
- Weight: 292 gms/ 10.3 Oz for a half pair of Men’s US 10/UK 9/EUR 44/CM 27.1
- Stack heights: 45 mm (heel), 35 mm (forefoot).
- Available widths: Single – D (regular), 4E- (extra-wide).
- Recommended use: Recovery runs, long runs, walking.
- Footstrike orientation: All types (heel/midfoot/forefoot).
- Median lifespan: 450 miles.
- Country of origin: Vietnam.
- Recommended paces: 4:30 min/km (7:00 min/mile) and slower.
- Recommended temperature range: Warmer than -5° C/23° F.
Pros
- Max cushioning that doesn’t feel lethargic
- Mild rocker assistance
- Plush interiors
- Reflective details
- Secure fit
- Optional width
Cons
- Average grip on wet roads
- Runs warm because of thick mesh and tongue
Also consider:
- Hoka Bondi 9
- Brooks Glycerin Max
- New Balance More V6
- Puma Magmax Nitro
- Use the Nike Vomero Plus for long runs, recovery runs
- Use Nike Pegasus Plus for daily training and tempo runs
- Use the Nike Vaporfly 4 for 5K, 10K, and marathons
Besides the EVO SL, other competent choices help you weave speed workouts into your training. If you have narrow feet, then the Hoka Mach 6 is ideal for tempo runs, intervals, and such. For a snappy forefoot with some heel support, we recommend the adidas Boston 13.
For everyone else, the adidas EVO SL works well as a tempo trainer and 5K/10K racer. The EVO SL’s cushioning is courtesy of Lightstrike Pro, a bouncy and resilient foam from the adidas Adios Pro 3. Unlike the latter, the midsole doesn’t have Energy Rods. While there is a midfoot shank, the EVO SL’s fast-capable midsole relies mostly on the inherent properties of the foam and forefoot rocker. The springy cushioning from the Lightstrike Pro works with the midfoot shank and forefoot to deliver a propulsive ride. The Continental and Lighttraxion rubber outsole creates a grippy contact patch under the forefoot to help with quick roll-offs.
Most tempo trainers fit narrower than a daily trainer, but the EVO SL is an exception. The forefoot accommodates most foot profiles, and true-to-size toe box is roomy. The tongue isn’t secured through a gusset or side tacks (like the Boston 13), so it tends to slide over the foot. The thin breathable mesh makes the ventilation excellent.
- adidas’s marketing pitch: Experience the feeling of fast.
- Upper: Lightweight mesh, no inner sleeve.
- Midsole: Full-length Lightstrike Pro foam. 7 mm heel drop.
- Outsole: Continental and Lighttraxion rubber.
- Weight: 224 gms/ 7.9 Oz for a half pair of Men’s US 9/UK 8.5/EUR 42.5/CM 27.
- Stack heights: 39 mm (heel), 32 mm (forefoot).
- Available widths: Single, D – regular (reviewed)
- Country of origin: China.
- Recommended use: 5K, 10K, half-marathons.
- Footstrike orientation: Midfoot/forefoot (full contact).
- Orthotic compatibility: No.
- Median lifespan: 400 miles.
- Recommended paces: 4:00 min/km (6:30 min/mile) and slower.
- Recommended temperature range: Warmer than -0° C/32° F.
Pros
- Soft and bouncy comfort
- Effective midsole rocker
- Outsole traction
- Breathable, just-right fit
- Works well even at slow speeds and heel strikes
Cons
- No reflectivity
- No optional width(s)
- Tongue slide
Admittedly, there are more exciting alternatives to the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 in the competitive supershoe segment. There’s the adidas Adios Pro 4, Asics Metaspeed Edge Tokyo, Hoka Rocket X3, Nike Vaporfly 4, and Brooks Hyperion Elite 5. The Endorphin Pro 4 qualifies as the ‘best’ marathon racer, not because it’s the bounciest or the lightest, but due to its versatility and user-friendly nature. Unlike most super shoes, the Endorphin Pro 4 doesn’t punish heel strikers and slow running speeds. Its 8 mm drop keeps the pressure on the Achilles low.
Though the Pwrrun PB foam midsole lacks the thrill of other springy racers, it’s supportive enough for rearfoot strikers. It doesn’t struggle at easier paces and adapts to the intensity as the speed builds up. It simultaneously delivers what’s expected of a carbon-plated racer. The midsole is sufficiently cushioned to last a marathon, and the full-length carbon plate adds a propulsive effect through the forefoot rocker and rearfoot snap. The patterned outsole offers the traction needed during quick turnovers.
The true-to-size combines a plush heel liner and semi-elastic tongue for breathable comfort. The forefoot fits securely without the aggressive fit that shoes such as the Adios Pro 4 and Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 have.
Despite its softer ride and more spacious upper, the Superblast 2 remains a durable do-everything shoe. The dual-density midsole combines the firmer FF Blast+ foam (as its base) with a softer FF Turbo+ foam as the main core. The light and springy FF Turbo midsole provides the necessary comfort level up to a marathon distance. The stiff forefoot rocker helps achieve efficient turnovers. This blend of cushioning and race-ready performance makes the Superblast 2 ideal for just about anything. It has the speed chops to be a marathon racer with the durability required for pre-marathon mileage. You don’t have to run a certain way or go fast to make the most of this shoe. The midsole supports all types of foot-strikes, running paces, and even heavier runners.
The midsole stability is excellent relative to its stack height and deep cushioning.
The latest model is more spacious and ventilated than the previous model. While many runners will appreciate the additional room and breathability during a long-distance run, existing Superblast users will miss the secure upper fit that created a stronger connection between the upper and the midsole. The softer ride also feels lazier than the firmer ride of the former version.
Also consider: The New Balance SC Trainer V3, Nike Zoom Fly 6.
- Asics’s marketing pitch: Supercharged cushioning.
- Upper: Engineered mesh, gusseted tongue.
- Midsole: Flytefoam Turbo and FF Blast, 8 mm heel drop.
- Outsole: Asicsgrip rubber in high-wear areas.
- Weight: 250 gms/ 8.8 Oz for a half pair of Men’s US 9/UK 8/EUR 42.5/CM 27.
- Stack heights: 45 mm (heel), 37 mm (forefoot).
- Available widths: D – regular (reviewed).
- Previous model: Asics Superblast 1.
- Country of origin: Vietnam.
- Recommended use: Daily training, recovery runs, marathons.
- Footstrike orientation: Heel, midfoot/forefoot (full contact).
- Median lifespan: 450 miles.
- Recommended paces: Slower than 4:30 min/km (7:00 min/mile).
- Recommended temperature range: Warmer than -0° C/32° F.
Pros
- Lightweight yet deep cushioning
- Supportive ride
- No performance penalty for slow speeds and heel landings
- Ventilation
- Long-distance comfort
- Multiple widths
Cons
- Weak upper fit lockdown
- Diminished speed capabilities versus the V1
- Under-utilized rocker because of excess upper space and softer ride
- Lack of optional widths
- Scarce reflectivity
Also consider:
- Brooks Hyperion Max 2
- New Balance SC Trainer v3
- Nike Zoom Fly 6
- Use the Asics Superblast 2 for daily runs, recovery, and long runs
- Use the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris or Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 for marathons
- Use the Asics Hyperspeed 5 for intervals, tempo runs, and short races
The trail running category is super crowded with high-performing models. Shoes like the adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra and Nike Ultrafly capture the high-end of the trail performance segment. Shoes such as the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 and New Balance Hierro V9 offer road-to-trail comfort. In between are a slew of versatile trail running shoes with use cases ranging from speed (like the Saucony Peregrine 15 and Salomon Speedcross 6) to non-specialized, everyday models. The Brooks Cascadia 19 is one such (everyday performance) shoe. With its DNA Loft cushioning, flexible rock plate, grippy articulated outsole, and protective upper, this trail shoe delivers everyday performance at an attainable price.
There’s ample cushioning for longer runs with decent levels of proprioceptive feedback. The Trailtack rubber outsole is split longitudinally to help it spread wider on the trail for better traction and ground feel. Splitting the outsole into different sections gives it a degree of autonomy that would otherwise not be achievable on a solid outsole. The flexible rock plate adds stability and protection on off-road terrain.
The secure upper provides a comfortable, true-to-size fit with protective details. Comfort-oriented features such as the padded heel and tongue complement the abrasion-resistant toe box and side panels.