![\"women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/2025-sneaker-awards-682352d03d14d.png\" "\\"women's")
<\/p>\n
Each pair on this list is either a brand-new release or a fresh color and design from the past year. They\u2019ll support you through your fitness highs, the days when goals shift, and even those moments when you\u2019re just looking to take it easy. From reaching running PRs to staying pain-free during heavy lifts, these sneakers have been the secret weapon for us, and we know your shoe unicorn is on this list too.<\/p>\n
Our fitness team\u2014including associate health and fitness editor Addison Aloian, CPT<\/a>; executive health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos, CPT<\/a>; fitness editor Talene Appleton, CPT<\/a>; and health and fitness editorial assistant Olivia Luppino<\/a>\u2014researched hundreds of new sneakers throughout the year and selected a curated list worthy of team and expert testing and review, evaluating each pair on performance, comfort, style, and versatility.<\/p>\n What sets our package apart is the diverse range of activities that our team at Women\u2019s Health engages in. From weight lifting and running to yoga, cycling, and HIIT, every member of the WH staff brings their own fitness preferences and goals to the table during testing. This allows us to test-drive each sneaker across a variety of exercises to ensure they excel in a range of workouts. We know exactly what makes a quality, high-functioning workout shoe, no matter the sport, because we live it every day.<\/p>\n Plus, as insiders in the fitness world, we\u2019re always first to know about sneaker launches and get early access to the latest releases and updates, meaning we\u2019re ahead of the curve in testing and reviewing the cutting-edge innovations. Our team\u2019s extensive knowledge, combined with firsthand experience, means you can trust that our selections are based on real-world use\u2014not just hype.<\/p>\n We also tap the best of the best professionals in the space to help with the rigorous testing and review process. This year, Jessica Gallina, MD; Kelly Roberts; and Jordan Farrell (read more about them below) brought their expert knowledge to this year\u2019s winners list, applying their specialized experience in orthopedics, running, and exercise physiology to ensure every winner meets the highest standards of comfort, performance, and injury prevention.<\/p>\n Strength Training<\/a> Meet our expert panel:<\/strong><\/p>\n Jessica Gallina<\/a>, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle injuries. She is based in the New York and New Jersey area and serves as the orthopedic consultant to the New York City Ballet and the School of American Ballet.<\/p>\n Kelly Roberts<\/a> is an RRCA-certified run coach based in Brooklyn. She is also the founder of Badass Lady Gang, a running community that helps recreational athletes ditch diet culture and focus on feeling strong.<\/p>\n Jordan Farrell<\/a> is an exercise physiologist, online fitness coach, and Women\u2019s Health Strength In Diversity alum<\/a>, based in Knightdale, North Carolina. She runs her own holistic wellness brand, Move With J.<\/p>\n Joe Lingeman<\/p>\n BEST NEW STRENGTH-TRAINING SHOE OVERALL<\/p>\n WH copy chief Marli Higa used to strength train in thick, cushioned running trainers\u2014but wearing these transformed her workouts by allowing her to really root her feet into the ground. \u201cThe smooth, thin sole made turning and lateral movements easier, and I could really feel the floor through the low-profile outsole,\u201d she says. The flat sole also helped her feel stable during elliptical workouts and incline walks, and the low cut gave her great ankle flexibility.<\/p>\n BEST NEW GYM SHOE<\/p>\n The On Cloudpulse is a cross-trainer disguised as a strength-training shoe, with flat, noncushioned, stable bottoms that still feel supportive for quick jogs and runs. \u201cThe fit is perfection,\u201d says WH food producer Tina Martinez, \u201cstreamlined through the narrowest part of my foot and hugging my arches in the most secure way,\u201d which is something not all sneakers do for her feet. Through her weight lifting, powerlifting, cardio, and jogging workouts, this fashionable shoe delivered stability through every step.<\/p>\n BEST NEW STRENGTH-TRAINING SHOE WITH ARCH SUPPORT<\/p>\n Now 20% Off<\/p>\n They helped WH art director Christine Giordano find lightweight support and balance and move quickly during dynamic CrossFit workouts. When she lifts, she struggles not to collapse into her arches, let alone find shoes with enough arch support\u2014but these were sturdy and had high arch support, allowing her to stay grounded. \u201cThe flat, solid sole gives great support when deadlifting or doing a clean and jerk,\u201d she says. Best of all, they bring style to strength training.<\/p>\n BEST NEW SHOE FOR GROUP FITNESS<\/p>\n The Nano Gyms are the definitive hybrid. They\u2019re light and breathable and can be used for multiple cross-training workouts because the cushioning and support makes them easily transitional, says exercise physiologist Jordan Farrell, CPT, who wore them all day when teaching classes and doing strength and conditioning workouts. \u201cI love the support of the hard heel, which I don\u2019t always find with a hybrid shoe,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n Joe Lingeman<\/p>\n BEST NEW RUNNING SHOE OVERALL<\/p>\n Now 24% Off<\/p>\n \u201cAs a fitness editor, I\u2019m lucky enough to be gifted countless sneakers for testing\u2014but the Gel-Kayanos are the sneakers I purchase myself again and again,\u201d says WH executive health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos. They have a long-standing reputation of being a sturdy, protective shoe for runners of all levels, and for many foot issues like plantar fasciitis and overpronation. \u201cBut the soles are stable enough that I can ground myself properly if I\u2019m doing a cross-training workout that also involves lifting weights\u2014without having to change my sneakers.\u201d<\/p>\n BEST NEW RUNNING SHOE FOR FOOT PAIN<\/p>\n The wide toe box is good for those with bunions, the heel lift helps those with tendinitis and plantar fasciitis, and the cushioning works for flat feet and those with arthritis, says board-certified orthopedic surgeon Jessica Gallina, MD, who recommends them for all workouts. \u201cI ran in them and had absolutely no foot pain,\u201d she adds\u2014a rare find.<\/p>\n BEST NEW EVERYDAY RUNNING SHOE<\/p>\n These sneakers have more cushioning than other pairs of running shoes but feel far more lightweight, breathable, and comfortable overall. \u201cThey have the perfect balance of cushion and comfort, making them the ultimate everyday trainer, especially as I began marathon training,\u201d says WH health and fitness editorial assistant Olivia Luppino. They kept her feet comfortable, cushioned, and in control when running and walking on uneven streets.<\/p>\n MOST SUPPORTIVE NEW RUNNING SHOE<\/p>\n The newest Brooks Ghost edition screams stability and steadiness. \u201cMy feet have never felt more stable, yet cushioned, on 10-mile runs during half-marathon training,\u201d says WH associate health and fitness editor Addison Aloian. \u201cI feel like I\u2019m running on a cloud, plus, they prevent my feet from pronating on hills with tired ankles,\u201d she says. The firm, cushioned base helps her feel as if she could walk on the StairMaster for hours without foot pain, and they double as a perfect recovery shoe after long runs.<\/p>\n FASTEST NEW RUNNING SHOE<\/p>\n The newest version of Nike\u2019s staple Pegasus is built for performance. \u201cThey\u2019re amazing for running\u2014especially faster efforts\u2014and surprisingly fun for walking, too, thanks to the bounce,\u201d says run coach Kelly Roberts. The propulsion effect sets it apart from other running shoes, especially since it doesn\u2019t have carbon plates (which improve propulsion and return energy to your feet through each step). \u201cThey make you feel like you\u2019re being launched forward,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n BEST NEW RUNNING SHOE FOR BEGINNERS<\/p>\n The newest iteration of the Hoka Cliftons feels even more comfortable than the last, says Aloian. \u201cThey took the impact out of every step and made my feet land lighter\u201d because of the eight millimeter heel-to-toe drop\u2014three millimeters more than the Clifton 9, she says. Because of the stability and plush comfort that other shoes don\u2019t provide, these sneakers offer an easy entryway into everyday running for newbies.<\/p>\n BEST NEW SHOE FOR CASUAL RUNNERS<\/p>\n Wanted: A sneaker that combines sustainability with comfort and functionality. The roomy toe box and snug heel kept WH fitness editor Talene Appleton\u2019s foot secure and free from slippage on morning jogs, grocery trips, brunches, and walks around the office (hybrid for sure!). \u201cThis shoe feels smooth and soft on easy runs but not overly plush\u2014a hard balance to strike with natural materials,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n BEST NEW JOINT-FRIENDLY RUNNING SHOE<\/p>\n The Salomon Aero Glide 3 has entered the chat. A thoughtful blend of lightweight cushioning and stability, these shoes \u201coffer a soft landing that dampens impact on the joints,\u201d says Appleton, who wore them for half-marathon training. The stable sole made them more responsive than most high-cushioned shoes, and \u201cthe rocker outsole makes transitions from heel to toe supersmooth,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n Joe Lingeman<\/p>\n BEST NEW CROSS-TRAINER OVERALL<\/p>\n Andriakos gets a lot of sneaker questions from friends and family. For anyone in the market for a do-it-all gym shoe, she always recommends the Chargefeel (and gets rave reviews about it!). \u201cDespite the fact that sneaker fit and feel is extremely subjective, everyone I know who has worked out in the Chargefeel\u2014myself included\u2014has loved its perfect balance of stability and flexibility. The stylish silhouette looks good outside the gym, too, and its quality materials hold up for months, even years.\u201d<\/p>\n BEST NEW MESH SHOE<\/p>\n This is the only mesh shoe that truly delivered real airflow to Andriakos’ feet. \u201cYou can literally feel the cool breeze through the lightweight mesh\u2014the ventilation holes are big enough to keep my blister-prone toes dry, and the shoes stay light during high-impact moves like plyometrics and sprints,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n BEST NEW MINIMALIST RUNNING SHOE<\/p>\n Introducing your favorite new minimalist trainer for quick runs, walks, strength-training sessions, and errand-running afternoons. The wide toe box, which \u201cmakes a huge difference in comfort and natural movement, especially on longer runs or walks,\u201d Roberts says, sets this barefoot shoe apart from competitors. \u201cMy toes had plenty of room to splay naturally, and I could feel my big toe engaging during push-off.\u201d<\/p>\n BEST NEW SHOE FOR PRONATION<\/p>\n This sneaker took WH news and features editor Currie Engel from walks to circuit training to a steady-pace six-mile run. Her wider feet pronate, but she felt supported, and all without a break-in period like so many other shoes for overpronators have required for her in the past. \u201cThey were incredibly comfortable\u2014cushiony and form-fitting, especially around the ankles,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n Joe Lingeman<\/p>\n BEST NEW LIFESTYLE SNEAKER OVERALL<\/p>\n \u201cMost sneakers that are advertised as slip-ons, but still have laces, are not actually easy at all to get on sans hands,\u201d says Andriakos. \u201cThe Urban Sneaker proved me wrong\u2014even if I\u2019m holding my daughter or a bag. I walked 17,000 steps in them and felt great.\u201d She also loves that they don’t have a big, well-known brand logo on them and look minimalist and sleek. Oh, and they come in 28 (!) different colors.<\/p>\n MOST STYLISH NEW WALKING SHOE<\/p>\n When it comes to juggling a packed day (think: chasing after an 11-month-old, commuting on foot, and squeezing in a treadmill boot camp class), Andriakos needs sneakers that can do it all. The Alo Runner rises above other lifestyle shoes with its ultra-cushioned sole that keeps foot fatigue at bay. \u201cUnlike most stylish sneakers that fall short in performance, this one delivers comfort and stability all day long\u2014without sacrificing looks,\u201d Andriakos says. Her tip: If you\u2019re between sizes, go with the smaller one for a snug, supportive fit.<\/p>\n BEST NEW SLIP-ON SHOE<\/p>\n Talk about accessible\u2014they are easy to slip on and have a secure, comfortably snug (but not tight) fit. With no break-in period, they\u2019re cushioned and don\u2019t pinch at the back or put pressure on the Achilles like other step-in shoes do, says WH deputy visual director Allison Chin, who walked to work in them.<\/p>\n MOST CUSHIONED NEW WALKING SHOE<\/p>\n This hybrid walking and running shoe prioritizes heavy cushioning to take you far without pain, with a roomy toe box and solid fit right off the bat. Unlike other (often less attractive) cushioned running shoes, these look less sporty while making you feel and move like a top-tier runner, says WH deputy photo director Dangi McCoy.<\/p>\n BEST NEW RECOVERY SHOE<\/p>\n Now 51% Off<\/p>\n WH managing editor Laura McLaughlin wore these even while on crutches after a meniscus root repair. The toe box and heel were comfortable and fit well so there\u2019s no slippage, and the two loops make putting the shoe on easy. \u201cI felt safe and secure in them, which is critical when you are relearning how to walk,\u201d she says. \u201cThey provided a firm foundation and a stylish profile.\u201d<\/p>\n Joe Lingeman<\/p>\n MOST VERSATILE NEW SHOE<\/p>\n The Norda 005s are a master class in \u201cdo-it-all\u201d shoes. WH assistant social media editor Isabel McMahon walked and jogged on uneven ground and stood in them for hours during long shoot days. \u201cThey\u2019re extremely lightweight, stable, and nimble, which is a rare combo that you don\u2019t see in other sneakers in the same category,\u201d she says, adding that every step feels springy, as if the shoes are moving you forward. \u201cThey\u2019re honestly perfect if, like me, you don\u2019t always know what your day is going to look like\u2014I might end up on a long walk, spontaneous run, or just running around for work\u2014and these work for all of it.\u201d They dry out fast and have a great grip\u2014perfect for running on trails or wet pavement.<\/p>\n BEST NEW SHOE WITH BUNGEE LACES<\/p>\n Of all the new styles that Andriakos tested this year, the SpeedARC Matis won for being most attractive and functional. (She tested them walking on pavement and rough ground, as well as in multiple workout classes.) The trendy bungee laces keep you locked in and make this performer stand out among competitors.<\/p>\n BEST NEW LIGHTWEIGHT SHOE<\/p>\n \u201cFeatherweight\u201d describes these shoes to a T\u2014despite their dense, firm cushioning that provides 360-degree support, says WH entertainment editor Amy Wilkinson. \u201cOther cushioned shoes can sometimes feel heavy on my feet, but these felt light and relatively streamlined\u201d as she wore the pair on hot girl walks and while teaching pilates classes, she says. \u201cThe woven upper gave my feet a gentle hug, and my toes didn\u2019t feel cramped in the toe box,\u201d compared to some other brands that are way too narrow for her feet, she adds.<\/p>\n BEST NEW PICKLEBALL SHOE<\/p>\n \u201cThese are the best pickleball shoes I\u2019ve ever tested,\u201d says Andriakos. While she was initially unsure about the stiffness right out of the box, the firmness proved to be the shoe\u2019s greatest asset. It allowed her to pivot quickly\u2014without worrying about rolling an ankle. Unlike softer, less supportive options, this pair gives serious players the edge they need on the court.<\/p>\n BEST NEW WOMEN\u2019S BASKETBALL SHOE<\/p>\n![\"bright](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/line-breakers2-6824caa6468b7.png\" "\\"bright")
Behind the Testing\u2014And What Sets<\/strong> Our Awards Apart<\/strong><\/p>\nJump to a category:<\/p>\n
Jogging and Running
<\/a>Cross-Training
<\/a>Walking and Lifestyle
<\/a>Sport and Trail
<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n![\"women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/whm250105-digital-sneakerawards-lo3-682381df52299.jpg\" "\\"women's")
<\/p>\n![\"Reign](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747148920-437756746756-682360658b428.jpg\" "\\"Reign")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Cloudpulse\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747148522-on-running-23r-68235ee0d0f40.jpg\" "\\"Cloudpulse\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Dropset](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747149223-adidas-6823619e29ac8.jpg\" "\\"Dropset")
<\/a>Adidas Dropset 3<\/p>\n![\"Nano](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747152687-356534645646-68236ecccb4dd.jpg\" "\\"Nano")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/whm250105-digital-sneakerawards-lo2-68238194a38c1.jpg\" "\\"women's")
<\/p>\n![\"Gel-Kayano](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746715526-gel-kayano-681cc36f8383e.jpg\" "\\"Gel-Kayano")
<\/a>Asics Gel-Kayano 31<\/p>\n![\"ForeverRun](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746715688-nitro-681cc41abcc43.jpg\" "\\"ForeverRun")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Fresh](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746715971-new-blaance-681cc5373414d.jpg\" "\\"Fresh")
<\/a>New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14<\/p>\n![\"Ghost](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746716317-brooks324r-681cc692e92c6.jpg\" "\\"Ghost")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Pegasus](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747248064-1746716697-pink-nike-681cc80003f90.jpg\" "\\"Pegasus")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Clifton](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746716841-hoka-orange-white-681cc8955652b.jpg\" "\\"Clifton")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Condor](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746717499-34t53534-681ccaa882c3f.jpg\" "\\"Condor")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Aero](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746718162-salomon-681ccdc5cc90b.jpg\" "\\"Aero")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"promotional](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/whm250105-digital-sneakerawards-lo4-6823eb52b8472.jpg\" "\\"promotional")
<\/p>\n![\"Chargefeel](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746715078-lululemon-681cc1bef0153.jpg\" "\\"Chargefeel")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Euphoria\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746653669-apl-sneaker-awards-681bd1dbb3a0b.jpg\" "\\"Euphoria\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Torin](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746653068-altra2-681bcf741f25a.jpg\" "\\"Torin")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Ride](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1746653432-saucony-681bd0ee8f5fd.jpg\" "\\"Ride")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/whm250105-digital-sneakerawards-lo5-682382423c93d.jpg\" "\\"women's")
<\/p>\n![\"Urban](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747147321-34532453-68235a2d1b71f.jpg\" "\\"Urban")
<\/a>Vivaia Urban Sneaker Sliders<\/p>\n![\"Runner\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747146887-alo2-6823587c47183.jpg\" "\\"Runner\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Slip-ins:](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747147114-sketchers2-6823595cb602f.jpg\" "\\"Slip-ins:")
<\/a>Skechers Slip-ins: Glide-Step Pro<\/p>\n![\"Sequence](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747147906-2345325343-68235c7a013cc.jpg\" "\\"Sequence")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Denise](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747147723-q34534543-68235b6e82969.jpg\" "\\"Denise")
<\/a>Easy Spirit Denise Austin Reese EMOVE<\/p>\n![\"women's](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/whm250105-digital-sneakerawards-lo6-68238286eb096.jpg\" "\\"women's")
<\/p>\n![\"005](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747079432-wertwerter-682250b5cd036.jpg\" "\\"005")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"SpeedARC](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747080920-merrell-682256cd1535e.jpg\" "\\"SpeedARC")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Konos](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747078764-wertwertew-68224e5a98b39.jpg\" "\\"Konos")
<\/a>Columbia Konos Featherweight<\/p>\n![\"CourtStrike](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747078930-45wy45ye5yt-68224ed053d2c.jpg\" "\\"CourtStrike")
<\/a><\/p>\n
![\"NEOVOLT](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747081393-wrtwretewer-682258a50c23a.jpg\" "\\"NEOVOLT")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Intrigue](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1747081524-wilson-6822591c73e8e.jpg\" "\\"Intrigue")
<\/a><\/p>\n