Best running shoes of 2021

2021-12-08 08:45:29 By : Ms. Penny Li

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We have collected the best running shoes on the market

Hoka One One Rocket X

Nike Zoom X Invincible Run

There is no perfect running shoe. When it comes to running, a variety of factors play a role-your biomechanics, your weight, the surface on which you run and the shape of your feet, which means that no single shoe is suitable for all types of runners.

For decades, one thing we noticed when making shoe reviews at RW is the way our network of runners express themselves when submitting their feedback on the shoes they have tested. Many times, they don't talk about what the shoe does, but instead focus on what it doesn't do. For example: it won't squeeze, it won't feel heavy, it won't make their feet sweat--and so on. This shows that for many runners, the purpose of choosing shoes is just to find shoes that will not hinder your running, not to disturb your running, but just to keep you running. The more experienced you are, the more likely you are to look for specific characteristics of the shoes-that's why we conduct such a thorough inspection of each model-but it's worth remembering that on a basic level, comfort is the key.

How to choose the perfect running shoes

Each shoe in the list below was chosen because of its high overall performance score, but we also looked at three important categories, which should help you find the model that suits you best:

Weight: Lighter shoes usually have less cushioning, which makes them feel faster. In other words, if you are going to travel long distances, the extra cushioning of heavier shoes may be a better choice.

Drop: The drop of a shoe is the difference between the heel and the forefoot, or in simple terms, the distance between the toe and the heel. A higher drop will result in more heel strikes. Most shoes have a drop of 8 to 12 mm, some are less than 6 mm, and a few minimalist designs have zero drop.

Cushioning: Cushioning provides shock absorption. In the laboratory, we looked at the cushioning measurements of the heel and forefoot to let you know the overall cushioning of each foot.

Sweat test: We received multiple pairs of each pair of shoes from the manufacturer. These are suitable for more than 200 runners of different abilities and preferences. Before filling out the detailed questionnaire, everyone will spend a month for multiple training sessions.

Cushioning: Each tester will measure the softness or firmness of each pair of shoes under their feet.

Flexibility: Flexibility indicates how smooth the shoe moves from heel to toe off the ground.

Height and weight: We weigh men's models (size 8) and women's models (size 5). We also measure "stack height": outsole foam rubber, midsole foam and insoles. We also determined the "heel drop" of the shoe-the height difference from the heel to the forefoot.

The wait is over. Here are the shoes on our list and the ones we expect to see later this year:

Weight: 224g (M), 198g (W)

Our "Best Test Award" is dedicated to shoes that stand out from the crowd-this is one of them. Judging by its name and weight alone, you would think it is most suitable for speed training or racing, but this would seriously underestimate this impressive multi-functional option. It turns out that it is suitable for both long-distance running and shorter and longer runs. Fast exercise. Saucony's PWRRUN PB cushioning midsole sandwiches a full palm nylon plate to provide a sense of propulsion, but it is flexible and subtle, without the obvious swinging movement typical of carbon-plated shoes.

Compared with many carbon fiber shoes, Endorphin Speed ​​2 provides a more stable, lower-key and stable riding experience-you feel that you can confidently stand on the ground. This shoe is fine-tuned between cushioning and responsiveness: it is elastic, but you can still feel the road and get plenty of elasticity from it when running. In the words of RW Editor-in-Chief Andy Dixon, “In general, this is an excellent all-round shoe. For those who just want a pair of running shoes to cover all the soles, this is a good choice.”

Weight: 280g (M), 240g (W)

When the shoe reaches the 23rd edition, you know it is not broken-and Cumulus fans can rest assured that Asics has not repaired it. 23 is another versatile and comfortable daily necessities. There are some evolutions, especially the "3DSpace structure" in the midsole-the pillars can be compressed to varying degrees to match your (gender-specific) foot impact. You won’t notice the subtle differences while running, but you do notice a smooth and unobtrusive ride.

Heel impacters will enjoy the extra shock absorption effect brought by the heel gel unit, and the Flytefoam midsole material achieves the best effect on the cushioning continuum: soft enough to perform well in slower mileage, but sufficient The spring can accelerate in rhythm training.

The plush ankle collar, heel and tongue increase comfort, but the price of the 23 is slightly heavier than the 22. The upper update uses meshes of different thicknesses to provide support where it is most needed and breathability in other places. At the same time, the grip is very good, even in those fierce summer downpours.

In the world of carbon fiber bells and rocker whistles, this is a reliable staple you can rely on.

Weight: 268g (M), 221g (W)

The FuelCell RC Elite's V2 is designed to provide you with a "competitive advantage on race day", which can provide fast riding. The best looking shoes in the entire guide.

Aesthetics aside, you can get the speed and explosiveness required for race days and speed training sessions. The right amount of FuelCell midsole and full-length carbon fiber board are used. The rigidity is the same as the first version of this shoe, but the slope is higher. steep. This paired with a higher toe spring gives the Elite V2 more swinging effect, although not as obvious as other "super shoes" on the market. From speed training to half marathon, this performance is good, while the feet always feel comfortable and stable.

"To me, it feels very similar to theFuelCell TC, but gives you more cushioning and more stability around the corner," McGuire said. "I am a big fan of Elite V2, and I like that it is different from some shoes. It is not only designed to record fast mileage. It feels comfortable and stable during warm-up and cooling.

Weight: 286g (M), 262g (W)

Although this is a 26.2 dedicated shoe as the name suggests, Adizero Boston 10 is a full-distance running shoe that suits you, with a moderate amount of long-distance running cushioning and speed pleasure. This version has been completely revised. The previous Boost thin layer under the foot has been replaced by Lightstrike's full palm midsole, which is a lighter and stronger EVA-based foam material. And, Boston uses carbon fiber rods instead of the often-used midsole to achieve agile and agile riding, returning more energy with each step—especially compared to previous versions of shoes.

The engineered mesh upper has been updated and now uses 50% recycled textiles-without sacrificing glove-like fit or good thermal management.

RW Deputy Digital Editor Jane McGuire said: "This is different from the streamlined shoe model that has been enthusiastically sought after." "It is heavier than the Boston 9 and has a higher stacking height, but it is far from marshmallow-something that fans will love. Like the Nike Pegasus 38, this excellent all-around sneaker can be used for long-distance running and fast training.

This is the first pair of shoes we remember to get the highest score during the group test. The reason we did not share the best test award with it is that it is a very niche shoe and will not fit so many runners as the best winner in the test, Asics Gel Nimbus 23. This shoe, which replaces the discontinued Evo Carbon Rocket, combines speed and control. It is one of the lightest shoes in the Hoka series, low back, comfortable, and made of thin carbon fiber panels. The RW team is a die-hard fan. Associate editor Joe Mackie commented: “This is a very fast shoe. The rocker and carbon plate combine to create a flexible and lively ground contact that feels like every time you Your feet will give you propulsion when they touch the floor. Editor-in-Chief Andy Dixon added: “They also feel very stable-unlike you are sitting on a high stack of Nike Vaporfly, it gives people a sense of confidence to really push the pace. "If you are looking for a pair of racing day speeders, then your search is over.

Weight: 302g (M), 244g (W)

It is always interesting when a shoe brand claims that its products can help reduce injuries-this is what Nike did in this update. If there is no large-scale clinical level test, there is no way to evaluate such claims. So the best we can say is that the tester wearing these shoes was not injured and had the same passion for cushioning (sturdiness), breathability and stability. The main changes in the first edition appeared in the upper, which became stronger and added some cushioning around the tongue. But those runners who wore the original "universal shoes"-such as RW deputy digital editor Jane McGuire-were disappointed. She said: "I'm a big fan of the last version because I found them to be very responsive. I want to love these, but I don't. The arches feel higher and the shoes are too heavy for speed training. The size is also a bit small. If you do not compare them with the first version, you will find that they are durable workhorses for long-term operation.

Anyone looking for an off-road shoe that doesn’t look like off-road shoes should consider the Nike Pegasus Trail 3. The third iteration of this shoe is consistent with the changes in Pegasus-a large amount of cushioning and a wide stable platform under the feet. Nike said, "The rubber sole has a shock wave-like pattern similar to a mountain bike tire." We found that this shoe has a strong grip on dry or sandy trails, but it will be a bit slippery when wet. For people who commute or run on roads and trails, this will be an excellent shoe, but dedicated explorers may find cushioning problems.

Weight: 241g (M), 227g (W)

Under Armour, the behemoth sports brand, is relatively new to the field of running shoes, but intends to flex its muscles. Flow Velociti Wind is the first product to achieve this goal, it is an impressive effort-a neutral everyday shoe, also eager for faster running. Our testers like the lightweight but strong upper that supports the foot well while stretching and moving in key areas. The cushioning is also praised: it uses an integrated midsole and outsole, and a 4 mm thick insole, which makes the shoes feel super soft when running. Therefore, their cushioning is sufficient for easy and long-distance running, but the weight is very low (almost in the field of performance shoes), and their response speed is also very fast, which means that they are very suitable for rhythmic running and faster training. Overall, this is a good choice for runners who want to cover all training bases with one shoe, combining cushioning, comfort and speed in a lightweight package.

Weight: 340g (M), 297g (W)

From the weight alone, it is clear that this shoe is designed for long, stable running. But weight and cushioning are one of its best things. Adidas likes to play Ultraboost, even though it is the company's cash cow. This iteration adds 6% Boost midsole foam, the Primeknit upper made of recycled marine plastic and a plastic insert called LEP ("Linear Energy Push") under the midsole, designed to provide 15% torsional stiffness- To provide a harder ride to help you speed up the pace. The feedback was mixed. The LEP function did not attract people’s attention. Almost everyone appreciated the soft and plush feel of this shoe; the additional Boost foam was appreciated, and some wearers commented that they were unfounded that they were worried that the recycled plastic upper would be uncomfortable. . The upper is not as tight as Adidas claims, so runners with narrow feet may want to look elsewhere. For most people, this is a long-distance running shoe with a lot of bounce.

Weight: 314g (M), 253g (W)

If one word must be used to describe Zoom X Invincible Run, it is "fun". Our runners eagerly tell us how much they like running in this new model (designed for long-distance jogging); the large amount of cushioning means that their feet feel firmly wrapped in a gentle bear. This means they don't have to worry about how to land, where to put their feet, or even think about anything-they can just run. The feedback after running was also positive, and some testers reported less muscle pain than normal. Nike will be very happy to hear this news, because this is exactly what it is trying to achieve with this shoe. Nike’s high-quality Zoom X foam has more foam than you shake the stick. The last (outline) of the shoe is very spacious, the heel adopts a flared square heel part, and the midsole has a rocker shape to help roll your The speed from foot to toe is faster. The breathability is only average, and lighter testers find it a bit cumbersome, but this is not a problem for medium-sized runners.

Weight: 263g (M), 229g (W)

1080 is one of New Balance's most popular running shoes. This is a high-quality, neutral cushioning shoe. Although it used to be only suitable for long-distance jogging, with the advancement of technology and the reduction of shoe weight, its adaptability has become more powerful-this model is suitable for many runners Provides a lot from 5K races to marathons, everything is possible. Version 11 has very few changes, only two minor adjustments-the upper has a new laser pattern and a little stretch to allow better freedom of movement. The heel counter has been reduced in an attempt to reduce any Achilles tendon friction-but, again, the change here is small. The 1080 is still an excellent cushioning shoe, especially suitable for narrow-footed runners. Don't want or need a lot of different shoes? Consider investing in a pair of these because they will meet most of your training needs unless you have specific requirements. In general, this is a versatile and very reliable shoe.

Weight: 232g (M), 192g (W)

Hoka has recently exploded, and this pair of shoes is also a strong contender for the award. We have labeled it as a high-performance shoe; however, lighter, more experienced runners may find it also an excellent choice for daily running. Mach quickly became a popular style, thanks to its clever combination of low weight, responsiveness and cushioning, soft and not damp. Unlike the overall thick appearance of most Hoka shoes, Mach offers a very slim style. This, along with the low heel drop, increases the overall feel of control speed. For the fourth edition of the shoe, Hoka changed the midsole-providing dual-density foam, with the softer layer on the harder layer; the upper is more breathable; the heel part has been redesigned to reduce the chance of Achilles tendon friction. Most people will find that the best point for this is from 10K to half marathon, but it can do much more than that on the right foot.

Weight: 286g (M), 258g (W)

Sometimes you will test a shoe that you only know will eventually become a brand stable fixture for a long time. From the time we tied the first Levitate shoelace, we thought it would be a shoe for Brooks. Happily, for fans of models, version 4 offers many of the same features. There are some changes, such as the slightly adjusted midsole foam formula, the adjustment of the outsole grooves to allow better rolling when stepping on the foot, and the upper becomes lighter and more breathable. In fact, I only noticed the last of these changes-it seems to be completely different-but in other places, the overall feeling is the same, which is a good thing. This is a shoe that can do the job mile after mile. Although £140 is not cheap, this shoe is very durable and wears less than many direct competitors after a few hundred miles, and the riding and cushioning remain consistent. When you just want to close and leave, you can treat it as a loyal partner for running.

Weight: 298g (M), 266g (W)

When evaluating feedback on this shoe, we constantly read reviews such as "reassuring", "heavy and sturdy, but good", and "very reliable". This is not a shoe that can be used for faster training, but as an everyday shoe for heavier runners and those with excessive varus, the 14th edition of the guide is best in class. Cushioning tends to be on the firm side, and the fit is not suitable for narrow-footed runners, but due to the newly designed upper, ordinary to wide-footed runners enjoy the perfect combination of freedom and support for the entire foot. The outsole groove has been adjusted, To allow smoother rolling from heel to toe. This means that although it feels strong, the shoe is responsive. There is also a curved calf under the midsole to provide medial support; our over-pronation runners like this feeling of need to be satisfied without the bulky feeling that traditional medial columns may bring. An excellent long-distance running shoe, suitable for beginners to intermediate runners with excessive inversion.

Weight: 281g (M), 221g (W)

There was a time when Asics seemed to be left behind by the shift to more flexible shoes, but from feedback on this stability model, it has been able to modernize the old favorites. Moderate weight and cushioning make GT 2000 suitable for different types of training. More than one tester found that they did not have to choose between excessive pronation control and speed when deciding what to wear to run faster. The inside post felt present but not obtrusive, and the redesigned upper was noticed by two fans of the model, who appreciated the better fit. The downside is that the heel stabilizer has a softer touch and the quality of shoelaces needs to be improved. Tester Richard Williams sums it up very well: "If you need the best comfort, stability, cushioning or weight, then you should probably look elsewhere. But if you want reasonable The quantity of everything, then this pair of shoes really must be on your radar.

Weight: 295g (​​M), 245g (W)

Although the Swiss brand On is known for its excellent quality of road running shoes, it has difficulty figuring out how to transfer its cushion ("cloud") to tricky trails. The previous version picked up rocks and dirt and held them tightly like a miser. Cloud Ultra has fixed this issue: the channel between the clouds has been closed, and the cloud itself has become shallower. The result is a shoe that does not increase weight as you walk. As long as you are on a dry, hard trail, it will provide a pleasing elastic but controllable experience. Testers like to fly downhill and choose their own way in these monorail paths, but once they encounter any meaningful silt, the lack of grip will cause them to skid around like novice skaters. Trail running shoes that can’t cope with mud are disappointing—however, if you’re just running in a dry environment, these slim, fast, and sturdy shoes are worthy of your consideration as a door-to-cross-country option.

Salomon's S/Lab series is similar to Sainsbury's "Taste the Difference" series-and Phantasm is its latest product. Phantasm is specially designed for Kilian Jornet's recent attempt to set a new 24-hour running world record. It is a road shoe that is hardly available and feels lighter than its stipulated 199 grams. People like Jornet may be able to use it to run super long distances, but mortals will find it suitable for up to 10K or so. The upper part is transparent (this feature is good for breathability but poor protection against weather), and the "energy surge" midsole foam was described by two light runners as "very good" but "savage" Or variants are tested by other testers. Finally, there is a rocker shape to help push the runner to the toes faster. In short, this is an effective speed training or race day shoe suitable for short races. If you can use it for any other purpose, we will stand and applaud your superb biomechanics and elastic joints.

Weight: 286g (M), 269g (W)

As a simple/long-distance running shoe focused on comfort, people's overall view of this new shoe is very clear: it is very good, but it may be more value for money. Our runners like the huge lightweight cushioning and the "Speedroll" function (the shape of the rocker on the shoe last helps you tilt your toes forward). They also reported that the shoes feel very light, and although it weighs 286 grams/269 grams, it is by no means the lightest in the test. An offset of 4 mm is not common in shoes designed for long-distance running (8 mm or higher is more traditional), but it works well and adds a sense of responsiveness and ground. In fact, more than one tester said that these felt like Hoka shoes. They mostly did what they said on the tin, although our testers did not notice the support function of excessive pronation. In addition, the lack of grip on the outsole and zero weather protection on the upper mean that this shoe is best suited for use on dry roads with clear weather. If Saucony can solve these problems in the next version, then it will have a winner.

Weight: 295g (​​M), 258g (W)

If you are familiar and/or a fan of Brooks Adrenaline, then you may have a good understanding of the rest of this review-this is an excellent shoe as always. If you are new to this model, this is a very good cushioning running shoe, almost an old-fashioned running shoe, with a heel-to-toe height (12 mm), a bit heavier, and a perfect long-distance running shoe for those who just want the most reliable and The least fuss. The only change from version 20 is that DNA Loft (Brooks’ highly acclaimed midsole foam) extends from heel to toe to provide a softer and more flexible riding experience. This is a shoe that appeals to both neutral runners and those with mild hyperinversion-the concealed rail on the outside of the shoe will be noticed when needed and avoided when not needed. This makes Adrenaline a great marathon shoe for people whose gait might get worse when they start to get tired in the next few miles.

Weight: 225g (M), 185g (W)

This is a unique shoe designed to allow you to get PB in various distances from half marathon to marathon. Such shoes need to be half fast enough, but sufficiently cushioned 26.2. Did it achieve this goal? Kind of. On changes the composition of Speedboard; essentially, this is a plastic platform with an outsole cloud pod attached to it. The Speedboard here injects carbon into it to create a board designed to provide a better energy return. The consensus is that it is too strong to be a long-running shoe, despite reports of thrilling outings over a distance of up to 10 miles. There is also Helion super foam, On the highest specification midsole foam. It is very good and the obvious toe springs are more prominent. The midfoot needs improvement because the rolling from heel to toe feels stiff, and the large vents on the upper make it ideal for warm weather, but not so interesting in wet weather. All light athletes with slim feet: If you are looking for marginal gains, try this 5Ks to half marathon.

Weight: 310g (M), 255g (W)

Heel/toe drop: 10mm (M), 13mm (W)

It's been a while since Asics received the highest honor in our "Shoe Buyer's Guide", but the unanimous response to this shoe has been delightful. Asics adopted one of its most popular and long-running (in any sense) shoes, tweaking a few things here and there, but the basic elements remained the same. The shoes still have excellent cushioning properties-even more so. The upper is very breathable, but it is now more durable, and the eyelets have been repositioned to better bend the entire midfoot. Both the men's and women's models have different gender-specific torsion control devices at the bottom of the midsole. Tester Mark Wheelton (Mark Wheelton) summed up the shoe very well: "For runners with midfoot or heel impact neutral, this is a very smooth ride. Even though it looks very Sturdy, but its forefoot has excellent flexibility and is very sensitive to speed changes or climbing. This is an excellent daily running shoe suitable for training and long distance competitions. I can see this in many runners Very popular in China.

Weight: 290g (M), 235g (W)

If you haven't done much trail running, but are considering taking up the courage to do so, then you'd better buy a pair like this. They are a great pair of beginner-friendly off-road shoes, and they are reasonably priced. The'Optivibe' midsole cushioning provides a good combination of softness and softness, but not too soft; traction is stable on all surfaces-although it struggles in extremely muddy conditions-the upper is very durable (but not Waterproof); the overall feeling is a comfort, not an elite performance. The tensioned Quicklace system is convenient, but Salomon needs to change the position of the tongue pocket where the loose end is inserted-it is difficult to access easily. Shoe fans will be pleased to note that the only real change compared to the 3rd edition is the heel counter, which is slightly lined to provide extra protection. If your ankle is very thin, you will find that due to this change, you will find that the back of the shoe fits better.

Weight: 288g (M), 247g (W)

Yes, this is a trail running shoe mainly in white. No, we don't know why The North Face did this. All our testers complained about this fact, but aside from aesthetics, it's not bad. This will encourage the brand, which is a major player in the mountain apparel market but lacks a track record in footwear. This is an unusual and overpriced shoe. The brand states that it is suitable for ultra long distance trail races, but we think this is unlikely unless you are already a long distance trail runner. There are some things to love: it feels much lighter than the actual weight; the upper part made of Kevlar is very strong, although a little loose; it has great grip on most surfaces; it is flexible enough to cope with technology route. However, carbon fiber board is redundant unless you plan to run it only on a flat surface of a hard package. In addition, the rocker shape of the midsole works well when it is flat and downhill, but it may hinder uphill. A shoe with potential but not yet fully realized.

Weight: 309g (M), 244g (W)

With a preference for stiffer soles and high-density medial columns, Asics seems to like classic stable shoes, and Kayano dominates all of these shoes. This is the company's flagship stability model, which means you can get a lot of visible technology (read: gel, still strong after more than 20 years) and high-quality structure. The 27th edition gets an improved, stronger heel stabilizer, deeper outsole curved grooves and a new gender-specific truss (torsion control device) to better meet the different support needs of men and women . Long-term Kayano fans will be very happy: this is perfect for runners who are looking for stability and plush for a long time. We found that older and heavier runners rated it more highly than lighter and younger runners. They complained about the weight and the relative lack of “pop” and “old-fashioned” feel. However, Asics shouldn't mind this-it knows exactly who the shoes are designed for, and it does a good job for them.

Weight: 290g (M), 240g (W)

Wave Rider was launched in 1998 and is now the 24th iteration. It has always been suitable for runners looking for reliable, high mileage, neutral cushioning shoes. There are many changes in the new version. The upper uses a more breathable mesh, the midfoot has less coverage, and the tongue and heel collar lining have been adjusted to provide more comfort and less pressure. However, the main change is the addition of Mizuno's new cushioning foam Enerzy to the rear. According to the brand, Enerzy is 17% softer than the best foam before, U4ic, and provides a 15% increase in energy return. Our testers liked it very much, and almost everyone gave it the highest score of 5/5 (some people like this pair of shoes but don't like the price). Francis Pyatt of Macclesfield Harriers summed up the collective feeling: "This is a good balance of all-round shoes that many runners want. This is an excellent daily trainer that combines grip, durability and good cushioning in a lightweight package." "Popular" sense.

Weight: 324g (M), 246g (W)

Blessed are fans of old-fashioned stable shoes! They can still be purchased if you know where to look, and the 860 is one of the most popular models still on tour. It has a fairly large medial column on the inside to control the excessive inward rolling of the foot, which is a godsend for severely hyperintroverted people. It was described as "similar to Nike Zoom Structure in feel, but not as heavy and bulky". Considering that the outsole is made of blow-molded rubber-which is considered not as durable as carbon rubber-there is little wear and tear after a lot of mileage. The only problem is fit. Wide-footed runners like the space in the toe box, but say that the redesigned heel cup is too close to the body and will rub after a few miles. For narrow-footed runners, the situation is just the opposite. But everyone likes the responsiveness of this shoe, which provides fast and smooth riding in a shoe designed for long training runs. Overall, this is an excellent multitasking program with excellent stability.

Weight: 277g (M), 244g (W)

Today, there are not many shoes with moderate ambitions. More and more brands like to design shoes for specific types of running. The Ride is a style that stubbornly refuses to take this road, and it is still what it always has been: a quiet and reliable everyday shoe with medium cushioning, weight and responsiveness; the most suitable style; smooth driving; and The adaptability of a good housekeeper. This means that it is unlikely to win awards for innovation or design, but the considerable advantage is that it has received the following comments. From Brandon Dewar, he spoke for many people. He said: "This is a lightweight and very comfortable High mileage shoes. It is also great for rhythm running or long-distance running. The toe is wide and fits, there is no tight area or friction-the upper is very comfortable. For me, this pair of shoes replaced Nike Pegasus as my main mileage shoe . Frankly speaking, it must be purchased.

Weight: 247g (M), 210g (W)

For everyday shoes, this is one of the lightest shoes we have ever seen. The weight is very light (almost in the performance shoe category), but it also provides excellent comfort and elasticity. Clifton 7 is designed to be your adaptable training partner for most of your training. According to our testers, it completes its short training very well, proving that it can be used in long, slow running, rhythm and interval Both performed well in training. We tried on the track to see if the low weight would work, but the cushioning was too soft to provide you with the back thrust required to maintain top speed. The midfoot is a little too close to the body, and some runners find that once their feet are slightly swollen, they have to loosen their shoelaces during long-distance running. In other words, the fit and security around the heel are very good, and the toe box provides enough space for proper toe opening. This is a good choice for casual runners looking for a shoe to meet most of their needs.

Weight: 305g (M), 290g (W)

This is a stable shoe that feels almost like a neutral cushioning shoe. Although there is built-in hyperinversion support on the inner side (inner side), you hardly realize this when you put on the shoe and start running. However, it did work, and runners who supported running shoes reported that when they weren't wearing a stronger stability model, they didn't experience any muscle problems that usually occur, which surprised them. In the third edition, On made the 12 cloud pods on the soles denser and wider to provide better cushioning and impact protection. The midsole foam has also been upgraded to On's top "Helion Superfoam" to increase the bounce. The only thing that prevented them from becoming contenders for the Best Test Award was that on more than one pair, the heel rubber began to show slight signs of wear after 50-60 miles. An extremely comfortable shoe that will please people with mild to moderate hyperinversion during daily running.

Weight: 298g (M) 232g (W)

This is an excellent product and the best tested competitor. This is a stable shoe with guide rails on the inside (inside) to provide mild to moderate hyperinversion support. The mesh is breathable and very breathable, but it is not the best in muddy conditions, and the cushioning is moderate-it performs well whether it is in long-distance runs or faster runs that require a firmer push away. The most acclaimed feature is the dimpled insole, which allows the foot to hold the shoe better, and a feature called InnovArch-the mesh layer under the insole wraps your arch, where it is divided into three Part of it is in contact with the tongue and becomes part of the lacing system. Runners like the sense of security it gives. Testers who experienced the standard Altra zero heel drop and wide toe for the first time found this pair of shoes to be a revelation. What prevents this shoe from being rated higher is the stiffness of the midfoot, which feels like just a mite that is too heavy to be universal.

Weight: 300g(M) 240g(W)

This oversized cushioning shoe (think Hoka level) is the most important comfort level. It is designed as a high-mileage long-distance running shoe and is popular with most of our testers. Mizuno's upper is just right-the mesh is thick and strong and does not affect breathability, but the built-in elasticity means that when the tester's feet swell when accelerating, it will never feel tight. The durability of the outsole rubber is very good: after more than 100 miles of running, the bottom of these shoes looks like a tenth of the run. The most important is the "X Pop" foam technology in the midsole: Thousands of TPU beads squeezed together (similar to Nike Joyride, but denser) move slightly during landing and take-off to provide a more personalized but flexible foot Ministry impact. Tester Andy Branford described this feeling as "like running on a memory foam while benefiting from a springboard."

Weight: 279g (M) 225g (W)

A lot of things have happened to this pair of shoes, and it's hard to know where to start. Let's start with this: If you can afford it, Zoom Tempo Next% will knock it down from your PB. It is designed as a daily-relatively speaking-version of Alphafly Next%. This shoe uses a carbon composite board, which is softer than the previous shoe board; two types of midsole foam (the more durable React on the heel part and the elastic ZoomX for the midfoot and forefoot); and the air chamber under the metatarsal head to provide More bouncing. The tester worried that with such a large stack height (46 mm for the heel and 36 mm for the forefoot, measured in RW), the shoe would be laterally unstable, but the reinforced knitted mesh could lock the foot well. Our only complaint is the fit: the toe is too wide and the midfoot is too narrow, although it happens to be on the heel. Other than that, this is a shoe that is as impressive as you might expect.

Weight: 218g (M) 204g (W)

This is now RW equipment editor Kerry McCarthy's first choice shoe, so it ends: "I am a mid-level runner, for me, there is nothing I can't do with this pair of shoes." It has the best I have ever seen. One of the good weight cushioning ratios-when you hold it in your hand, you don’t think it will have too much, but it provides an excellent energy return on a moderately sturdy platform. The only problem is that I will be fast Wear them because I want to wear them every time I train. Other testers were also attracted. Their comments focused on the fact that there is no fuss, the pleasingly simple design, the adaptability of most types of running, and the facts and lawsuits that they can put on shoes, forget where it is and move on. . Rincon 2 is roughly the same as the first version, but it is crucial that it has become a bit more spacious, making it more attractive, and now it is also suitable for long jogging. Over time, your The feet will swell. Corks for shoes.

Weight: 253g (M), 206g (W)

For beauty, it fulfills its mission, which is to provide a happy landing for heel strikers, especially when going downhill. This, coupled with the low weight, was highly praised by the target runners. A tester commented, “I’m not the fastest runner. After a few runs, my knee hurts, but I think I’m really You can work hard in these areas.'

This is a shoe for a specific consumer; midfoot and forefoot forwards find that the large heel part is either hindering their running or is irrelevant at best. The midsole cushioning foam is Hoka's lightest to date, but it lacks the popular feel to make shoes suitable for fast training, which does not make them particularly cost-effective. This is a lovely innovation for wide-heel forwards looking for stable running shoes.

Weight: 303g (M), 269g (W)

In terms of cushioning, this shoe is second only to Glycerin in Brooks stables. Transcend is slightly harder than Glycerin, but it is softer than Transcend's version 6. The excessive pronation rail system added to the midsole makes the heel softer than the forefoot. (The rails extending along the sides of the midsole are used as buffers on the feet. Brooks says this prevents the knees from moving left and right irregularly, which helps prevent overuse injuries.) A flatfoot tester, who is also an overuse Inversions can even run without her usual insoles; Transcend's stabilization system and cushioning platform provide her with the support she needs. A few times it was marked as slightly lacking in breathability, but in general, this is a good shoe. Tester Paul Fenton concluded: "I would recommend this shoe to anyone who wants a reliable and comfortable training shoe that can be used in a variety of conditions and courses."

Weight: 245g (M), 204g (W)

Part of the Hoka's Fly (performance shoes) series, together with Cavu and Elevon, this is a very light model, but provides more comfortable cushioning than heavier shoes. The update to the previous version is in smaller aspects: the midsole has been adjusted slightly to provide a softer heel and a firmer platform for launching on the forefoot; the upper has been updated to a seamless bootie structure to provide Better midfoot wrap; and the jacquard mesh is more breathable-very convenient if you put down the hammer in a fast game (this is exactly how Mach is designed for this situation). However, this is not just the shoes of a speed demon; slower, heavier runners find the Mach 3 perfect for faster runs and shorter races, thanks to the wide platform and pleasant bounce. . Note: Half size is best because the fit is obvious.

Weight: 252g (M), 215g (W)

Salomon's Sonic 3 Balance continues its recent success in bringing its off-road quality to the road. It is a very capable and outstanding road running shoe. The main design feature worth noting is the use of two types of cushioning foam (one for shock absorption and one for propulsion). In other words, this is not a shoe that you might think at first glance as too luxurious; it feels comfortable, but strong and responsive. This reassuring ride may give you an idea of ​​the origin of the "balance" part of the name, because testers believe that this shoe will provide performance without compromising comfort. Salomon may claim that it is a "geometric decoupling shaft" (a full-length heel-to-toe outsole groove designed to increase the speed of the foot transition) so that the riding is so balanced, but the testers are very satisfied with the spacious toe and The breathable upper is more impressive, and the large amount of grip provided by Sonic 3, even on flooded roads and light rails.

Weight: 291g (M), 230g (W)

Prove that you do not need a second mortgage to find a pair of decent running shoes. Contend 7 may not boast of any technology that makes World Athletics a headache, but the unwavering performance of this shoe means that if you don't see the price tag, it's hard to think of it as a cheap shoe. Our testers praised the comfortable fit and breathable mesh of the upper, and found that the midsole provides good cushioning and support, combined with fully acceptable responsiveness, to bring a full range of pleasant riding experience. For road shoes, the outsole grip also performs well on various surfaces. However, the outstanding feature is that all of these can be delivered at a low price. "Probably the best value-for-money shoes I have worn," one tester said, while the other was "shocked by the price (in a good way)." Long-term durability may prove to be an issue, but these are a special option for new runners or those who can't run long miles and don't want their bank accounts to be severely affected.

Weight: 295g (M), 241g (W)

If this is a sign that is coming, then Under Armour seems to be mastering the running market. This reminds us of the thicker Saucony Kinvara. It is responsive, fast, good cushioning (compared to any other UA shoes, it contains 20% UA's proprietary foam material Hovr), and there is a lightweight propulsion plate under the midsole, which contains carbon fiber. This pair of shoes is luxurious, but the testers found that it strikes the best balance between comfort and response. In other words, if new runners are looking for the guarantee of a full palm cushioning system, they may find the feeling of firmer forefoot a little offensive. Like most UA shoes, Machina is equipped with a chip that can record metrics—distance, speed, cadence, ground contact time—and pass them to the MapMyRun app. Currently, you need to run with your phone to take full advantage of this, but an update compatible with smart watch support will be launched later this year, and you will be able to get real-time guidance prompts directly on the watch, too.

Weight: 305g (M), 290g (W)

Think of GlideRide as the little brother of MetaRide; its sole curve is softer, cushioning is stronger, lighter weight, and more suitable for daily runners. Asics introduced it, claiming that it allows runners to run farther, easier, and farther, thanks to GlideSole technology, which can push the feet forward, and according to research at Loughborough University, can reduce energy loss. During running, this kind of rocking motion with a curved outsole takes some time to get used to-the testers found it strange at first, but got used to it after a few runs. Although the shoes perform well on flat roads, in any undulating or uneven terrain, the rocker will become a slight obstacle and cause some instability. Several testers reported that their toes would be squeezed, and it is recommended that runners be half a size larger. Although this technology is exciting, they are best for runners who are hitting heels and are looking for a road shoe to propel them on anything from 10K to marathon.

Weight: 305g for men and women

In the Cloudstratus brand, "shoes with maximum cushioning performance", this is by no means groundless. All our testers evaluated the smooth ride and moderate cushioning, without the foam wedges we expect in modern running shoes. They weigh 305 grams, which is very heavy and may not be your first choice for speed training. In other words, this does not seem to be a big problem in operation. If anything, the extra weight makes the shoe feel more supportive.

Weight: 190g (M), 165g (W)

This is Hoka in name only because it doesn't look and feel like the biggest cushioning shoe we expect from this brand. On the contrary, it is a low, slippers-like, rock-solid race car. The midsole foam is nothing more than a stabilizing function, wrapped around the edge of the heel. Your feet are located in the lower midsole, giving the impression that there is not much difference between it and the road-but the cushioning there can well eliminate the tingling on the sidewalk without affecting your speed . The upper has been stripped; there is no heel stabilizer and no heavy covering. The mesh is made of Kevlar thread, which is lightweight and durable, and will not absorb water even if it is splashed into a puddle. The disadvantage of this is that it is not so flexible. Our testers found that although it behaves normally when you put on the shoes for the first time, the lack of elasticity means that as your feet swell, the fit will become better. Tighter, which means that even if you are efficient enough to use these low-top shoes for long enough, it is best to use them for short and sharp things before your toes start to hit the end of the toe box. The speed is amazing, but it is definitely not a multitasker.

Weight: 290g (M), 240g (W)

This is almost a very good shoe. This is a neutral cushioning shoe that not only uses the brand’s iconic shock-absorbing cloud pod under the foot, but also uses a midsole foam called Helion, which is said to provide higher weight without adding weight. Durability, and provide greater resilience without sacrificing cushioning. It can certainly do this, but only under certain conditions. As part of the test, we gave a pair of shoes to a super runner who ran hundreds of miles in a week or two and reported that the shoes did not drop or bounce. Energy feedback and responsiveness are widely praised, and runners feel that they can run faster with less effort-but only on flat roads. Just place your shoes on a slightly rough surface, such as a canal trail, and the ride will feel flat and wet, which is not the price you want. If you only run in an urban environment, it is a good half marathon shoe; otherwise, wait for future iterations.