Time spent finding the best running shoes is time that you can’t be out there running. That’s where we can help you. We do the research, price comparisons, and running shoe reviews, and give you the information so you don’t waste time searching to the end of the internet for it.
Step 1: Determine Your Running Mechanics
Simple explanations and videos help you determine your shoe type so you can find the best running shoes for you.
Click Here to Determine Your Running Mechanics
Step 2: Price Comparison and Reviews
Our Recommended Best Running Shoes
Best Running Shoes – Reviews and Price Comparison
Here is our recommendations for the Best Running Shoes. Since running shoes are typically split up into three categories depending on the type of arch and running style that you have, below I have provided the top 3 shoes in each category. We also shop online for the best running shoe prices among many retailers so you get the best deal on these best running shoes.
Best Neutral/Cushioned Running Shoes
The Neutral category of running shoes is for normal/high arches and a good stride with no overpronation or slight underpronation. Neutral running shoes are also referred to as Cushioned running shoes, due to the fact that because you don’t need much Stability designed into the shoe, the cushioning can be more prominent.
1. Asics Gel Nimbus 12
The Asics Gel Nimbus 12 is the top of the line and best selling neutral/cushioned running shoe that Asics offers. Not only is it one of the most popular shoes that Asics offers, it was also awarded the Best Update from Runners World in the Summer 2010 Shoe Guide.
The Nimbus 12 includes offset lacing and a weight reduction from last year's shoe. I would recommended the Asics Gel Nimbus 12 for runners with normal to high arches looking for a neutral/cushioned shoe with a bit of added stability.
2. Brooks Glycerin 8
The Brooks Glycerin 8 is a Neutral shoe that has been awarded Runners World Editors Choice for Spring 2010.
The Brooks Glycerin 8 is the first shoe from Brooks to contain their new technology called Brooks DNA. This fancy sounding technology basically means that the cushioning adapts to the unique needs of each runner. If you are heavier, it supports more, if you are lighter, it supports less because it doesn't need to. The Glycerin has always been known as a good supportive shoe able to handle the foot strike of bigger runners.
3. Nike Zoom Vomero+ 5
For the most cushioned Nike shoe out there, go no further than the Nike Zoom Vomero+ 5. The Nike Zoom Vomero+ 5 could be a great match for you if you have a Neutral to Underpronator running style with normal to high arches.
Improvements from last year include using a no-sew technique on the upper to reduce irritation, and reduced weight from last years model. Consider trying the Nike Zoom Vomero+ 5 if you are looking for a lightweight, responsive performance cushioning shoe to match your Neutral high/normal arch running style.
Best Stability Running Shoes
Stability running shoes are typically designed for normal/low arches and if you overpronate only slightly. With stability shoes, you won’t have all the weight that is typically seen in Motion Control shoes, yet they provide a good balance of stability and cushioning.
1. Asics GT-2160
Editor's choice again, no surprise for the Asics GT-2160 stability running shoe and its award winning heritage, this time bringing in the Runners World 2010 Winter editor's choice award. Last year's Asics GT-2150 also won editor's choice, but you will notice a definite different in this version of the shoe, improving on several of the weaknesses that runners found with the 2150.
2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11 was awarded the Runners World Winter 2010 Best Update, and its no wonder why as it still remains one of the best stability running shoes on the market. The Adrenaline GTS 11 is a lightweight stability shoe, an excellent reminder that you don't have to sacrifice performance for getting some support out of your running shoe. I recommend this shoe if you have normal or low arches and need a soft stability shoe.
3. Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13
The Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13 Running Shoe falls into the Stability category of shoes, which means it provides the support and stability slight overpronators need, but without sacrificing cushioning or a smooth ride.
The Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13 was given the Best Update award by Runners World in their Spring 2010 Running Shoe guide. The features that were updated to earn this award are an improved crash pad to better absorb shock and moderate pronation, as well as an upper with minimal material which shaves some weight. The medial post was also updated to be more substantial to be more supportive. The addition of a heel-strap overlay attached to the laces for great heel locking and a secure fit in the women's model is another great update.
Best Motion Control Running Shoes
Motion control running shoes are for those with flat feet that overpronate significantly. Shoes are typically classified by heaver weight and stiffer midsoles to provide the necessary stability to handle the overpronation.
1. Asics Gel Evolution 5
The Asics Gel Evolution 5 are the most supportive shoes in the Asics lineup of running shoes and fall into the Motion Control category. This shoe is for runners who excessively overpronate, have low arches, and is also designed to support bigger runners who overpronate and need more support than a regular Stability shoe.
Have heard quite a few positive results from bigger runners about how the Evolution 5's were able to help control overpronation for them, when other shoes couldn't. Also, quite a few runners have reported that insoles and orthotics are able to fit in with no problem, which can be challenging with some running shoes.
2. Brooks Addiction 9
The Brooks Addiction 9 is one of the most pouplar motion control running shoes on the market to help support you low arched, overpronators out there. Even though the shoe has tons of stability and motion control features, you will find that cushioning wasn't sacrificed.
3. Brooks Beast
The Brooks Beast is the typical shoe for heavier runners who overpronate severely. Even if an overpronator, that may not be the right shoe. The Brooks Beast is a big motion control shoe, not really for slight overpronators. Standard/premium stability shoes can work just fine in many cases.
The Brooks Beast shoe has more of the high-end stuff than the Brooks Addiction. For the money, the Addiction is a good shoe, but it doesn't stack up to the Brooks Beast for heavy severe overpronators.
