The first step out of the door is the hardest, and uncomfortable shoes are just another barrier between you and that sweet endorphin release. Yet with dozens of brands \u2013 from Hoka, Adidas and Nike to New Balance, Saucony and On \u2013 hundreds of styles, and enough tech jargon to make Susie Dent\u2019s head spin, finding your solemate can be a challenge in itself.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s why I\u2019m here to help. I test running shoes professionally, and I\u2019ve laced up hundreds of pairs in the past 18 months, running thousands of miles in pretty much everything from the latest carbon race shoes to cushioned trainers designed for comfort. As a runner closing in on 70 marathons, I can spot the best running shoes for every run and every runner.<\/p>\n
At a glanceMen\u2019s, from \u00a3108 at Cotswold Outdoor<\/a>Women\u2019s, \u00a3111.96 at Runners Need<\/a>Men\u2019s, \u00a3119.99 at Decathlon<\/a>Women\u2019s, \u00a3119.99 at Decathlon<\/a>Men\u2019s, \u00a399.99 at Decathlon<\/a>Women\u2019s, \u00a399.99 at Decathlon<\/a>Men\u2019s, \u00a3135 at Sports Direct<\/a>Women\u2019s, \u00a3135 at Sports Direct<\/a>Men\u2019s, \u00a3259.99 at Pro:Direct Sport<\/a>Women\u2019s, \u00a3259.99 at Pro:Direct Sport<\/a>Unisex, \u00a3209 at Amazon<\/a>Why you should trust me<\/p>\n Over the past decade, I\u2019ve tested hundreds of running shoes while on a perpetual personal and professional mission to find the best and weed out the worst. In some cases, I\u2019m on to testing the tenth generation of a particular shoe.<\/p>\n I test running gear to pay the mortgage. So when I\u2019m not training for a race, I\u2019m generally sampling the latest shoes, apparel and other running kit. If I can get somewhere by running, I always prefer to go on foot. I\u2019ve also run close to 70 marathons, including lots of ultras.<\/p>\n How I tested During the past 18 months, I\u2019ve tested the latest running shoes from all the major brands, as well as smaller brands such as Norda, Hylo, Mount to Coast and Decathlon\u2019s top-value Kiprun.<\/p>\n I ran at least 50km in each shoe, putting them through a series of test runs. That included a progression run where I moved from my easy run pace up to my 5km pace. I used carbon race shoes for timed events where possible, and I often ran solo marathons around London to find out how the shoes would feel when you\u2019re 22 miles deep (the real test).<\/p>\n After all that plodding, I rated each running shoe based on how it lives up to the marketing blurb and whether it\u2019s suitable for the runs and runners it\u2019s aimed at. I looked at fit and comfort, while awarding bonus points to shoes that coped with a wide range of paces and endured big mileage. I love versatile shoes that scream good value.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve selected the standout running shoes across a variety of situations and scenarios. Here are my top picks.<\/p>\n The best running shoes for men and women in 2026 Photograph: Jill Mead\/The GuardianBest running shoes overall: Saucony<\/p>\n Endorphin Azura<\/p>\n from \u00a3108<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n From \u00a3108 at Cotswold Outdoor<\/a>\u00a3140 at Saucony<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3111.96 at Runners Need<\/a>\u00a3140 at Saucony<\/a><\/p>\n Saucony\u2019s excellent all-rounder, the Azura, is a new addition to its speed-focused Endorphin line, which also includes the plated Endorphin Speed 5<\/a> and the Endorphin Pro 5<\/a>.<\/p>\n Why we love them The big stack of PWRRUN PB foam works with Saucony\u2019s SpeedRoll rockered shaping to urge you to move faster without feeling too bouncy, wild and uncontrolled. They\u2019re tamer than plated race shoes (in a good way) and not quite as snappy as the rival Adidas EVO SL<\/a>. But they\u2019re still poppy, propulsive, natural and smooth, with a lot of rebound energy coming back from the midsole.<\/p>\n They\u2019re not just fast-run shoes, either. There\u2019s enough cushion right across the foot to look after your easy, cruising runs, and you can cover the slowest miles without feeling too exposed, thanks to a wide platform that creates a relatively stable setup.<\/p>\n They\u2019re an ideal pick for marathon training, and versatile enough that you can stick them in a suitcase to cover most of your runs on a holiday.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 they\u2019re heavier than fast rivals such as the Adidas EVO SL.<\/p>\n Suitable for: daily miles from easy to marathon pace Saucony<\/p>\n Endorphin Azura<\/p>\n from \u00a3108<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Best value running shoes for speed: Kiprun<\/p>\n Kipride Max<\/p>\n from \u00a3119.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3119.99 at Decathlon<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3119.99 at Decathlon<\/a><\/p>\n Decathlon brand Kiprun is a relative newcomer to the running shoe shelves, but offers some excellent options at affordable prices. The Kipride Max is one of them.<\/p>\n Why we love them The midsole deploys a combination of foams and a big rocker for a soft and protective ride \u2013 it\u2019s cushy, cradling and soft, but not soggy or laboured. Some cushioned shoes prioritise marshmallowy impact protection over pace, but the Kipride remains pleasantly energetic while smoothing out the road underfoot.<\/p>\n That generates some versatility, too. They may not be the first shoes you\u2019d pick to run tempo efforts, but they can handle them if you need them to. They\u2019re also relatively stable and reliable underfoot, though I experienced a little wobble in the softer heel.<\/p>\n If you want big cushioned shoes for comfortable daily miles that also bring bounce, energy and fun, the Kipride Max are right up there alongside pricier rivals such as the Nike Vomero 18<\/a> and the New Balance 1080 V15<\/a>.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 the grip isn\u2019t 100% reliable on every wet surface.<\/p>\n Suitable for: easy runs and everyday training miles Kiprun<\/p>\n Kipride Max<\/p>\n from \u00a3119.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Best value running shoes for comfort: Kiprun<\/p>\n Kipstorm Tempo<\/p>\n from \u00a399.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a399.99 at Decathlon<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a399.99 at Decathlon<\/a><\/p>\n Kiprun has worked magic here, packing bucketloads of Asics Megablast-rivalling performance into an excellent all rounder for less than \u00a3100.<\/p>\n Why we love them On the move, you get bouncy, high-energy feedback that\u2019s punchy and fun. But there\u2019s a firmness \u2013 a snappy edge \u2013 that stops the midsole from being overly soft or sinky.<\/p>\n The landings offer plenty of protective cushion, but the midsole kicks back quickly with a fast, high-energy return, good responsiveness and an effective rocker.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a winning package that bridges the gap between a comfortable daily trainer and a race-day shoe. They\u2019re not as propulsive as a plated racer, but are truly excellent for long tempo and marathon-pace miles. And they\u2019re incredible value \u2013 arguably the best road running shoes you\u2019ll find for less than \u00a3100.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 they\u2019re not as propulsive as plated race shoes.<\/p>\n Suitable for: all training runs Kiprun<\/p>\n Kipstorm Tempo<\/p>\n from \u00a399.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Best running shoes for beginners: New Balance<\/p>\n 1080 V15<\/p>\n from \u00a3135<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3135 at Sports Direct<\/a>\u00a3170 at New Balance<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3135 at Sports Direct<\/a>\u00a3170 at New Balance<\/a><\/p>\n New Balance\u2019s max-stack workhorse offers the perfect beginner\u2019s package of road-taming cushion, fuss-free comfort and killer cruising potential.<\/p>\n Why we love them The big stack of soft, mildly springy midsole foam offers a lot of cushion in a relatively reliable platform that avoids being too unstable for the height.<\/p>\n This latest version of the 1080 has shed a little weight thanks to a new, lighter gas-infused foam, which also offers more rebound. So it\u2019s protective, but it\u2019s not lifeless \u2013 it gives a bit back, too. At 249g, it\u2019s impressively light for the amount of cushion and a bit more nimble than the Kipride Max.<\/p>\n The engineered knit upper and well-padded heel collars provide good overall comfort. The 1080 comes up a little narrow, though, so you may want to consider going up half a size if you have wider feet or prefer a roomier fit.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re after well-built, durable, reliable workhorse running shoes to help you build a habit, the 1080 v15s are a top choice.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 they\u2019re a little pricier than other similar shoes.<\/p>\n Suitable for: easy runs, daily miles, beginner runners New Balance<\/p>\n 1080 V15<\/p>\n from \u00a3135<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Best marathon shoe for all-out speed: Puma<\/p>\n Nitro Fast-R Nitro Elite 3<\/p>\n from \u00a3259.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3259.99 at Pro:Direct Sport<\/a>\u00a3260 at Puma<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3259.99 at Pro:Direct Sport<\/a>\u00a3259.99 at SportsShoes<\/a><\/p>\n The Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 sets the benchmark for top-tier carbon race shoes. They\u2019re made for chasing PBs and moving fast, and pack some serious efficiency-boosting punch.<\/p>\n Why we love them Lab tests are one thing; performance on real-world asphalt is another. But they\u2019re the real deal. I\u2019ve used them to set a 2:50 marathon personal best and even ran an accidental half-marathon PB during the London Marathon.<\/p>\n These are super-lightweight running shoes, stripped right back with highly breathable, minimal uppers and a midsole that\u2019s had any unnecessary foam lasered off. They\u2019re not the most natural shoes to run in, however. The complex midsole requires a bit of attention to foot placement \u2013 you have to find the sweet spot to unlock the energetic ride. They also definitely work best when you\u2019re moving with fast, good form. If your running gets ragged, they won\u2019t look after you with as much road protection as top alternative carbon race shoes, such as the Asics Metaspeed Edge Tokyo<\/a>. They wouldn\u2019t be my recommended shoes for four-, five- or six-hour marathon runners, who tend to need more cushion underfoot, particularly in the heel, and more protection from the added impact of more time pounding the asphalt.<\/p>\n But when you\u2019re moving more quickly, the Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 feeds back energy, efficiency and a lightness that\u2019s hard to beat.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 they\u2019re not very protective if you\u2019re struggling.<\/p>\n Suitable for: all-out efforts, racing up to the marathon Puma<\/p>\n Nitro Fast-R Nitro Elite 3<\/p>\n from \u00a3259.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Most versatile running shoes: Asics<\/p>\n Megablast, unisex<\/p>\n from \u00a3209<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Unisex <\/p>\n \u00a3210 at Asics<\/a>\u00a3209 at Amazon<\/a><\/p>\n From big mileage to faster efforts, the Megablast is built to handle everything you throw at it. They\u2019re some of the best do-it-all shoes you can buy.<\/p>\n Why we love them The secret to the Megablast\u2019s versatility lies in the mix of race-ready, lightweight uppers and a giant stack of FF Turbo Squared midsole cushion. They\u2019re light and punchy enough to let you pick up the pace, but cushioned and protective when you rock back to easy.<\/p>\n The midsole has a bouncy energy, mixed with a rockered roll from heel to toe that ensures easy and smooth transitions. They also load a good level of assistive spring into each step. I found the shoes a bit oversized for intervals and the fastest sessions, but they\u2019re excellent, energetic asphalt tamers that are ideal for clipping along in comfort for miles.<\/p>\n I tested these with a solo marathon, and the roomy toe box, airy uppers and padded heel collars took care of my feet for the four hours I was on the move.<\/p>\n The price is high, but if you want one pair of shoes for all of your full or half-marathon training, these have you covered.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a shame that \u2026 they\u2019re so very expensive.<\/p>\n Suitable for: marathon training Asics<\/p>\n Megablast, unisex<\/p>\n from \u00a3209<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love The best of the rest Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian Hoka Arahi 8 What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3140 at Hoka<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3140 at Hoka<\/a><\/p>\n Best for: mild stability<\/p>\n Stability shoes aren\u2019t generally known for being light and sprightly, but the Arahi 8 bucks the trend. They use Hoka\u2019s H-Frame support technology, which adds firmer foam on both the lateral and medial sides of the midsole for more balanced guidance. The result is a milder stability that works with your stride for wobble-free and consistent landings, with natural, smooth-rolling transitions, helped by the rocker.<\/p>\n They\u2019re softer, lighter and more agile than your regular stability shoes and move with a happy ease where every footstrike is assured but not forced. They\u2019re also much less blocky than rival stability shoes, the Asics Gel Kayano 32<\/a>, and not as sluggish as a Saucony Hurricane 25<\/a>. I used the Arahi 8 from mile 40 to 75 of a 100-mile ultra, and they soaked up my tired, ragged form. They also took care of my feet across mixed terrain with lightness, protection, reliability and comfort.<\/p>\n They didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 they may be a tad firm for some runners.<\/p>\n Suitable for: mild stability on easy to mid-paced runs; weight: 270g (UK M 8.5); size range: 3-10 women\u2019s, 6.5-14.5 men\u2019s; drop: 8mm<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Brooks<\/p>\n Glycerin Max 2<\/p>\n from \u00a3134<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3134 at Runners Need<\/a>\u00a3180 at Brooks<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n \u00a3143.95 at Runners Need<\/a>\u00a3180 at Brooks<\/a><\/p>\n Best for: heavier runners<\/p>\n Heavier runners often need more cushion to reduce the impact of running on road, but the softness of many max-stack shoes is often at the cost of stability. The Glycerin Max 2s balance the two, combining big protection with big comfort and a healthy dose of reliability underfoot \u2013 at least for such a big midsole.<\/p>\n It uses Brook\u2019s DNA Tuned foam, placing larger cells in the heels for more cushioned landings and smaller cells under the forefoot for more energy in the toe-off. That works well with a pronounced Brooks GlideRoll rocker \u2013 and quite a steep upsweep at the toe \u2013 to get you smoothly from heel to toe and out into your next step.<\/p>\n The foam isn\u2019t as compressive as some, so the midsole returns faster than big marshmallow midsoles. That creates an excellent road-taming cushion without any of the laboured squish that can stifle bigger cushioned shoes. The upshot is that easy miles in the Glycerin Max 2s feel a touch more effortless.<\/p>\n They didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 I\u2019d like a little more versatility for the price.<\/p>\n Suitable for: easy to mid-pace runs with maximum cushion; weight: 328g (UK M 8.5); size range: 3-10 women\u2019s, 6-14 men\u2019s; drop: 6mm<\/p>\n Brooks<\/p>\n Glycerin Max 2<\/p>\n from \u00a3134<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4 The North Face<\/p>\n Vectiv Enduris 4<\/p>\n from \u00a379.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n From \u00a379.99 at SportsShoes<\/a>From \u00a3101.50 at the North Face<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n From \u00a386.99 at Pro:Direct Sport<\/a>\u00a3145 at the North Face<\/a><\/p>\n Best for: trail running<\/p>\n The Enduris takes some of the elite trail tech you find in the top-tier Vectiv Pro 3<\/a> shoes and drops it into more accessible, everyday trail runners\u2019 shoes. The big midsole stack uses an energetic nitrogen TPU Dream foam, which works with a pronounced rocker for a winning combination of cushion and energy. I found them wonderfully smooth, well suited to runnable terrain \u2013 even a bit of road \u2013 and capable of taking on long- and short-trail adventures.<\/p>\n When the trail gets bumpier, the nylon stability plate and wide forefoot offer reliable landings, and there\u2019s enough ground feel to keep you connected to the terrain. They\u2019re not the most agile shoes, though, and some runners may want more precision on really technical terrain. But for a plodder like me, they were excellent.<\/p>\n An internal booty keeps out debris, reinforced TPU toe caps provide insurance against rock-on-toe aggression, and the bigger 4mm lugs grip well.<\/p>\n They didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 they\u2019re not the most agile trail running shoes.<\/p>\n Suitable for: long miles on the trails; weight: 308g (UK M 8.5); size range: 3-9 women\u2019s, 6-13 men\u2019s; drop: 6mm<\/p>\n The North Face<\/p>\n Vectiv Enduris 4<\/p>\n from \u00a379.99<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love For more, read our guide to the top trail running essentials (and what to skip)<\/a><\/p>\n Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL Salomon<\/p>\n Aero Glide 4 GRVL<\/p>\n from \u00a3115.95<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love Men\u2019s<\/p>\n From \u00a3115.96 at Cotswold Outdoor<\/a>\u00a3145 at Salomon<\/a> Women\u2019s<\/p>\n From \u00a3115.95 at Cotswold Outdoor<\/a>\u00a3145 at Salomon<\/a><\/p>\n Best for: road to light trail<\/p>\n Gravel shoes are designed to move seamlessly from road to the kind of light off-road you might find alongside your local river or a groomed path through a forest. Think road shoe DNA with a bit more grip and rugged uppers. And these Salomon shoes are among the best I\u2019ve tested.<\/p>\n I put them through all sorts: wet-weather road-only runs, mixed runs from road to river path and outings on road, gravel, compacted mud and forest floor. They served up a combination of energetic and protective cushion, enhanced grip and excellent multiterrain comfort.<\/p>\n The Optifoam midsole is soft and springy enough to rival some of the top daily training road shoes. Then when you move off-road, the chevron Contagrip outsole kicks in for confident traction, at least in mild trail conditions. My only gripe: Salomon\u2019s quick-lacing system doesn\u2019t loosen off enough, so it\u2019s a struggle to squeeze wider feet or high insteps into the shoe.<\/p>\n They didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 they lack the grip and ground feel to take on the trickiest trails.<\/p>\n Suitable for: all your runs on road to light trail; weight: 303g (UK M 8.5); size range: 3.5-9.5 women\u2019s, 6.5-13.5 men\u2019s; drop: 8mm<\/p>\n Salomon<\/p>\n Aero Glide 4 GRVL<\/p>\n from \u00a3115.95<\/p>\n What we love What we don\u2019t love What you need to know If you slip on a running shoe and it immediately feels like it belongs \u2013 what we running-shoe geeks call \u201cinstant step-in comfort\u201d \u2013 that\u2019s a great first sign.<\/p>\n Look for about a thumb\u2019s-width length at the end of the toe box, good clearance across the top of the toes and a bit of room for your toes to splay. Pay close attention to the areas next to your big- and pinky-toe knuckles \u2013 you should feel hugged but not restricted.<\/p>\n The heel collars shouldn\u2019t slip when you walk or run, and there should be no rubbing from the heels under the achilles. It can be useful to go up half a size or even one full size on your regular shoes to allow for any foot swelling that can happen on longer runs. Some brands also do wide-fit options. But if it starts to feel like you\u2019re standing in a canoe, the shoe\u2019s probably too big.<\/p>\n Fancy something a little different? Read our guide to the best barefoot shoes for hiking and running<\/a><\/p>\n How long do running shoes last?<\/p>\n The collective wisdom suggests your running shoes should be replaced every 300-500 miles. But this oft-cited rule of thumb appears to come from one 1985 study<\/a> that found the shock absorption capacity for some shoes dropped to less than 60% between 250 and 500 miles. And things have changed a lot since 1985.<\/p>\n Modern running shoe foams have been completely transformed. And our expectations of what a running shoe should deliver go far beyond taking the edge off the road. We now want impact protection and boosted energy and efficiency. Equally, however, just because a pair of shoes isn\u2019t providing peak performance, that doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s dead.<\/p>\n If impact protection is your top priority \u2013 and you\u2019ve run past 300 miles without any major issues \u2013 there\u2019s arguably no compelling reason to replace your shoes.<\/p>\n We runners like hard and fast rules, but the truth is your shoes are good to go for as long as you feel they are. Do your wallet and the planet a favour by tuning into how they feel when you move, not how many miles they\u2019ve clocked.<\/p>\n How should you clean your running shoes?<\/p>\n It\u2019s very tempting to stick your running shoes in a shoe bag on a 30C wash, but if you want them to last \u2013 and perform \u2013 as long as possible, it\u2019s best to keep them out of the washing machine and the tumble dryer.<\/p>\n Instead, use a soft-bristle brush (I use a toothbrush), damp cloth, some mild detergent and a bit of elbow grease to remove dust and mud. Remember to go easy on the midsole: superfoams don\u2019t like heavy scrubbing. Remove laces and insoles, and stuff wet shoes with newspaper or paper towel to dry out.<\/p>\n Avoid placing them directly on radiators, as prolonged exposure to high heat can harden and damage the midsole foam. I also recommend cedar wood dryer bags<\/a> to help absorb moisture and keep your shoes smelling fresh(er).<\/p>\n What should you do with old running shoes?<\/p>\n Before you bin high-performance footwear, ask yourself if it could do another job elsewhere in your shoe rotation. That super trainer performance might have petered out, but provided it\u2019s not giving you any trouble, they could have a second life as easy day running shoes.<\/p>\n Once they\u2019ve definitely plodded their last, you could consider a change of use, like lacing them up for easy strolls, walking the dog or gardening, or my favourite: taking the bins out.<\/p>\n You could also send them to JogOn<\/a>, a scheme that gives donated running shoes a new lease of life by getting them to people who need them. Runner\u2019s Need also has its Recycle My Gear<\/a> scheme that salvages still wearable and repairable kit.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also worth checking if the shoe brand offers its own \u201creturn for recycling\u201d scheme. It\u2019s not easy to recycle running shoes due to the glue and the number of different materials used, but old shoes are often ground down and transformed into things like the base surface for astroturf football pitches.<\/p>\n For more: Kieran Alger is a running, fitness and health journalist who splits his time between testing, training and tapping out reviews. You\u2019ll regularly find him lacing up brand new running shoes, racking up miles or chasing down lofty challenges while wearing three watches and a whole host of kit that needs putting through its paces<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Whether you\u2019re just starting Couch to 5k or well on the way to the 100 Marathon Club, finding…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":21299,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[5,6],"class_list":{"0":"post-21298","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-uk","8":"tag-uk","9":"tag-united-kingdom"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@UnitedKingdom\/116460190670622145","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21298","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21298"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21298\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21299"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21298"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21298"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21298"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}![\"Our](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/The_Filter__running_shoes_test_1--268e4cf4-1dc3-4cff-8112-a240d2b4fc6d-2.0.0000000.jpg\")
Our tester ran at least 50km in each pair of shoes, across progression runs and timed events<\/p>\n
Saucony Endorphin Azura![\"Saucony](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041364_949_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Easy, fast and light comfort, plus versatility<\/p>\n
Not as snappy as the fastest training shoes<\/p>\n![\"Saucony](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/3712.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"Saucony](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041365_403_725.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
They\u2019re high-energy, well-cushioned, nicely balanced, non-plated training shoes that are easy to lace up for a wide range of runs, across the pace range. They feel instantly at home and natural on the foot, with no fussiness: just a good, accommodating fit that suits long, fast runs.<\/p>\n
Weight (size): 250g (UK M 8.5)
Size range: 3-10 women\u2019s; 6-14 men\u2019s
Drop: 8mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Easy, fast and light comfort, plus versatility<\/p>\n
Not as snappy as the fastest training shoes<\/p>\n
Kiprun Kipride Max![\"Kiprun](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041365_287_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Fantastic comfort, versatility and durability for the price<\/p>\n
The grip struggled on some wet surfaces<\/p>\n![\"Kiprun](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"Women\u2019s](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041366_719_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve run more than 70km in these trainers, and they\u2019re one of the best pairs of running shoes I\u2019ve tested this year. Straight out of the box, the comfort is excellent. Quality mesh uppers, plush padded tongues and heel collars make for an inviting setup that feels instantly at home on your foot.<\/p>\n
Weight: 285g (UK M 8)
Size range: 3-8 women\u2019s; 5.5-13.5 men\u2019s
Drop: 6mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Fantastic comfort, versatility and durability for the price<\/p>\n
The grip struggled on some wet surfaces<\/p>\n
Kiprun Kipstorm Tempo![\"Kiprun](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041366_513_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Megablast all-around capability at half the price<\/p>\n
Not as propulsive as plated race shoes<\/p>\n![\"Kiprun](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041366_607_4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"Women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041366_792_5000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
The Tempo nails comfort, with a unique neoprene-esque stitched-in booty tongue that wraps and locks in your feet without making them feel caged. I used them for a 90-minute run, and they felt good from the first minute to the last.<\/p>\n
Weight: 232g (UK M 8.5)
Size range: 3-8 women\u2019s, 5.5-12.5 men\u2019s
Drop: 8mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Megablast all-around capability at half the price<\/p>\n
Not as propulsive as plated race shoes<\/p>\n
New Balance 1080 V15![\"New](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041366_55_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Big on cushioned comfort but stays light<\/p>\n
More expensive than similarly cushioned rivals<\/p>\n![\"New](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_180_4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"New](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_143_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
The New Balance 1080 V15 are among the best cushioned running shoes for logging daily miles. They\u2019re built for big-mileage comfort and lend themselves perfectly to easy training runs and the kind of efforts you\u2019ll encounter as a beginner runner. They also offer enough versatility to carry you from those first steps to longer training runs.<\/p>\n
Weight: 249g (UK M 8.5)
Size range: 3-10 women\u2019s, 6.5-15.5 men\u2019s
Drop: 6mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Big on cushioned comfort but stays light<\/p>\n
More expensive than similarly cushioned rivals<\/p>\n
Puma Nitro Fast-R Nitro Elite 3![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_402_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Light, efficiency-boosting and lightning-fast<\/p>\n
Requires the best running form to unlock the efficiency<\/p>\n![\"Puma](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_769_4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"Puma](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_602_725.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Puma has the receipts to prove it: lab tests show<\/a> these improved running economy against every shoe on test. And not just for gifted elite runners, either \u2013 everyone tested showed better running efficiency thanks to their unique midsole setup with a cutaway heel, extended plate and lightweight design.<\/p>\n
Weight: 175g (UK M 8.5)
Size range: 4-8 women\u2019s, 6-13 men\u2019s
Drop: 8mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Light, efficiency-boosting and lightning-fast<\/p>\n
Requires the best running form to unlock the efficiency<\/p>\n
Asics Megablast![\"Asics](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041367_650_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
One shot that handles almost every type of run<\/p>\n
They\u2019re eye-wateringly expensive<\/p>\n![\"Asics](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041368_560_3712.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n
If you can get past the eyewatering price, the non-plated Megablast is a great pick for speed sessions, long tempo efforts, cruising long Sunday runs and easy recovery efforts. There\u2019s honestly not much they can\u2019t handle, though they definitely move best when you\u2019re running with intent, locking into your most efficient running form.<\/p>\n
Weight: 239g (UK M 8.5)
Size range: 2.5-13 unisex
Drop: 8mm<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
One shot that handles almost every type of run<\/p>\n
They\u2019re eye-wateringly expensive<\/p>\n![\"Hoka](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041368_734_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Finally, a light and agile stability shoe<\/p>\n
They\u2019re not the most energetic daily trainers<\/p>\n![\"HOKA](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041368_993_4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"Hoka](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041368_639_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Finally, a light and agile stability shoe<\/p>\n
They\u2019re not the most energetic daily trainers<\/p>\n![\"Brooks](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041368_716_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Offers excellent protection without losing stability<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a heavy shoe<\/p>\n![\"Brooks](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041369_228_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Brooks](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041369_655_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Offers excellent protection without losing stability<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a heavy shoe<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041369_333_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
A good balance of cushion, energy and long-haul comfort<\/p>\n
They\u2019re sometimes a bit wide for cluttered trails<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041369_24_3712.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041369_594_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
A good balance of cushion, energy and long-haul comfort<\/p>\n
They\u2019re sometimes a bit wide for cluttered trails<\/p>\n![\"Salomon](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041370_11_725.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n
Handles an impressive variety of terrain<\/p>\n
Salomon\u2019s quick lacing system is actually a faff<\/p>\n![\"Salomon](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041370_854_4000.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Salomon](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1777041370_384_4640.jpg\")
Photograph: Jill Mead\/The Guardian<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n
Handles an impressive variety of terrain<\/p>\n
Salomon\u2019s quick lacing system is actually a faff<\/p>\n![\"Your](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/The_Filter__running_shoes_test_2--490876fa-cfc6-41e4-b562-c423cbc6b529-1.0.0000000.jpg\")
Your running shoes will be good to go for as long as you feel they areHow do I find the right running shoe fit?<\/p>\n
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The best moisture-wicking underwear and base layers<\/a><\/p>\n