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The 6 Best Running Shoes for Women for 2024 – And 12 Alternatives

Written on 04th January by Ruggero Loda Founder and Publisher, Running Shoes Guru
308 other reviews
Best Women Running Shoes 2024
Every year we buy, test and review more than 120 pairs of running shoes, we've been doing this since 2009.

From daily trainers to max cushioning, from trail to racing - here's the selection of our female testsers for the best shoe for each category, plus a runner-up and a "also consider" choice.

Table of content

Our favorite 6 running shoes for women

Keep scrolling or click on a shoe to find out why we chose it and what other shoes you should consider.

Things to know when buying running shoes

First and foremost, the first consideration when buying running shoes is to know what you will use them for.

  • Daily trainer: the shoe you will be putting most of your mileage on. Your only shoe if you are a beginner.
  • Stability trainer: the daily trainer for people with unstable ankles.
  • Max cushion: softer, more comfortable shoes for either extra comfort, long mileages or heavier runners.
  • Fast training:
  • the running shoe for your faster efforts.

  • Trail running<:/li> shoes with extra protection, durability and traction to take you off-road.
  • Racing:
  • Lightweight, responsive shoes often with solutions such as carbon plates to try and improve your personal best time (PB).

We’ll go through more details about these in a minute, but here are other things you should consider when buying a pair of running shoes:

Comfort

Whatever running shoe you choose, make sure it’s comfortable. Running (6,500+ steps on average for 3 miles) will highlight any wrong fit you might have in the shoe.

A running shoe should fit well at the heel and midfoot (according to foot shape and preferences) but leave some room for your toes to splay. Also, your foot will swell approximately half a size when running – so beware of shoes that are “just right”.

Cushioning

Cushioning is the shock absorption that a shoe will do while you land on the pavement.

Shoes with high cushioning will absorb more of the impact, protection your ankles, knees and the rest of the kinetic chain – but higher cushion also absorbs the energy you put in your stride, requiring you more energy to run the same distance or the same speed.

It’s a matter of personal preference and again of the specific use of those shoes.

Responsive cushioning vs Plush cushioning

We often use these two terms when talking about the cushioning of a running shoe.

Plush cushioning is that “running on clouds” feeling that many running brands advertise. It’s soft, it’s comfortable but requires more effort (because of the extra shock absorption).

Responsive cushioning is a cushioning where you can feel the shoe bouncing back after each stride, propelling you forward.

Stability and Support

While not a focus as it used to be a decade ago, some runners (me included) have very unstable ankles and that causes unnecessary stress to that joint when running.

Modern stability shoes have simple solutions such as a wider foot base or “guard rails” to help your ankles stay aligned while not constricting your stride too much.

Best for Daily Training

Any shoe could in theory be a daily trainer.

What we recommend are running shoes at a mid price point, with balanced cushioning, good durability and versatile enough to be able to increase or decrease the speed when needed.

The winner

In short
The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral daily trainer that allows you to use them for an array of activities. They are incredibly comfortable and work great for runners who are new to the sport, runners who are veterans, and individuals who just want a good-looking practical shoe.
Pros

  • Versatile
  • Budget-friendly
  • Comfortable enough for all day wear
Cons

  • Not the most responsive on longer runs
  • Laces could use an upgrade
Who should buy it

This shoe is for the individual who is looking for a versatile shoe that can accomplish different goals. They are great for short runs to logging mid-range distances.

Who should not buy it

They are not for the runner who is looking for a shoe that will help them during those grueling long runs. They work well for runs under 10 miles. I also wouldn’t suggest them for a racing shoe.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
23 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
One of the shoes I recommended the most last year, it's incredible value at its price, especially because of its versatility. Great for running anything from 5k to 10k, comfortable enough to wear just for walking around or for training at the gym.
Read full review

Runner up

In short
The Saucony Ride 17 is a superb neutral daily trainer which excels in versatility. While it still doesn’t have much flair, it has excellent stability and durability, and it represents great value. Version 17 has a more modern ride than version 16 due to its upgraded PWRRUN+ midsole. It has noticeably more energy return but it comes in at a much heavier weight.
Pros

  • Increased energy return from new PWWRUN+ foam
  • No more midsole squeak
  • Durable outsole
  • Good stability
  • Softer ride
Cons

  • Big weight increase
  • Slappy outsole
Who should buy it

If you’ve tried the Saucony Triumph and you found it too soft and unstable, the Ride 17 is a great alternative. If you want a no frills trainer similar to the Pegasus or Ghost but with a more lively ride, the Ride 17 is a good option.

Who should not buy it

If you’re looking for a lightweight trainer for mostly speed work, the Ride 17 is not your shoe.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Just launched, it's one of the best daily trainers we have encountered lately. The new midsole foam (taken from the ultra-successful Triumph 21) is softer and more comfortable and overall the shoe oozes quality and comfort.
Read full review

Also consider

In short
The Adidas Supernova Rise is a superb all-round daily trainer. It features support rods which stiffen its forefoot, giving it a mild rockered ride with efficient transitions. It also has a brand new Dreamstrike+ PEBA based midsole which isn’t extremely energetic but it does offer a decent amount of energy return. Its main weakness is that it has a snug forefoot which requires you to go up a half size, however, this is still the best Adidas daily trainer to be released in years.
Pros

  • Balanced ride and excellent versatility
  • Forefoot rocker increases efficiency
  • Smooth ride transitions
  • Great lockdown
  • Very stable
Cons

  • Narrow forefoot and toe-box
  • Tongue is not gusseted
Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a daily workhorse which is stable and durable, the Supernova Rise is a great option. It’s a textbook daily trainer which you can use for all types of training runs.

Who should not buy it

If you want a super light, very flexible trainer, the Supernova Rise is not for you. If you have wide feet, the Supernova Rise is also not for you.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
26 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Return to form from Adidas in the daily training segment. Outperforms most daily training running shoes at the same price point.
Read full review

Best for Stability and Support

Are your ankles unstable? If you can't comfortably (without wobbling) stand on one leg for 45-60 seconds at a time, you'll benefit from choosing a running shoe that provides support.

The winner

In short
The ASICS Kayano 30 is a top-tier stability trainer. Drawing inspiration from other ASICS offerings the Kayano has been completely rebuilt for its 30th edition. The result is an adaptable and stable shoe that provides comfort mile after mile. This overhaul continues Kayano’s run as one of the leaders of the stability field.
Pros

  • 4d Guidance System
  • Completely Rebuilt
  • Adaptive Stablity
Cons

  • Midfoot tightness
Who should buy it

A runner who wants a rebuilt Eco-friendly stability trainer ready to take them through any training plan.

Who should not buy it

Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.7 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
30 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Asics completely revamped one of their most popular shoes of the last 30 years - and managed to pull off one of the best stability shoes around. If you want plush cushioning, a comfortable upper and great but discreet stability solutions, look no further.
Read full review

Runner up

In short
The HOKA ONE ONE Gaviota 5 offers top comfort and support, with an ultra-wide base and one of the brand’s highest stack heights, yet has dropped almost an ounce from previous models. This latest Gaviota offers an enhanced stability, accommodating fit, comfort, lower weight, and a more smooth transition through the footplant over the past two models.
Pros

  • Wide, plush base
  • Comfortable, secure fit
  • Large heel loop
  • More accommodating toe box
  • Lighter than previous
Cons

  • Moderate outsole durability
  • Price
Who should buy it

Gaviota’s updated midsole supports runners who supinate (run on the outside of the foot) as well as overpronate (roll excessively in) and is especially suited for long and recovery runs; it is also a great shoe for walkers and those on their feet all day who need supportive shoes.

Who should not buy it

Though Gaviota is lighter than in the past, it is not best for speed-focused runs or runners who prefer a light, quick feel underfoot. The midsole support is helpful for non-neutral runners, this outsole is not the most durable option for those with heavy wear patterns.

Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
10.9 oz
Heel
999 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
999 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
High stack and stability don't always go hand in hand - but the Gaviota 5 finally strikes that balance. If you are drawn by these "high platform" running shoes but were always afraid they wouldn't be supporting enough, the Gaviota 5 is the shoe for you.
Read full review

Also consider

In short
The Brooks Launch GTS 10 continues to be a lightweight, supportive shoe with a fast feel with few changes in ride from the last model; most upper modifications enhance look and function. The medium-high levels of cushion, stability, and durability make it a wise buy for the price.
Pros

  • Smooth ride
  • Comfortably-snug fit
  • Light & Breathable
  • Sleek, revamped look with enhanced function
  • Reasonable price
Cons

  • Loss of double hole on second-to-top lacing
  • Lower reflectivity
Who should buy it

Buy Launch GTS 10 for light stability and low weight if your build and form are somewhat easy on shoes. This shoe shines in speedwork yet without the stiffness or price of a plate or rods, with balanced cushion for comfortable medium-length runs.

Who should not buy it

Do not choose this shoe if you have high motion control needs or prefer plush cushion to a responsive ride. This is not the shoe for runners who want a wide, solid feel below the heel or for heavy over-pronators.

Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
8.3 oz
Heel
34 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
24 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
A nimble, lightweight running shoe with good stability features. Try the Launch 10 GTS if you want a daily trainer that is at ease increasing the pace while keeping you supported.
Read full review

Best Max Cushioned Shoes

Max cushioned running shoes are the most popular this year. Who doesn't want endless cushioning and a luxurious, plush feeling?

The development of new midsole foams in the past few years made it possible for shoes that deliver so much cushioning to not be too heavy and to still maintain some energy return.

Higher priced than most daily trainer, beware!

The winner

In short
The On Cloudeclipse is a good maximalist trainer which offers a very high level of protection from the ground. It has a firmer ride than most max-cushioned trainers and it’s best suited to easy or recovery runs because its Helion foam midsole doesn’t provide much energy return. While it has a very comfortable upper and ride, it doesn’t warrant its premium price over other max-cushioned trainers which are in the $160 price range.
Pros

  • Smooth, highly cushioned ride
  • Accommodating upper fit
  • Excellent foot lockdown
  • Balanced ride
Cons

  • Upper’s dye bleeds onto the white laces
  • Low outsole durability
  • Overpriced
Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a highly cushioned On trainer which has a softer ride than the Cloudmonster but a more cushioned, firmer ride than the Cloudsurfer, the Cloudeclipse is worth a try.

Who should not buy it

If you enjoy light trainers with lots of ground feel, the Cloudeclipse is not the running shoe for you. If you’re looking for a really versatile, energetic daily trainer which can handle uptempo runs, the Cloudeclipse is also not for you.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
10
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
6.0
Team review
Even though On claims all of their shoes are like running on clouds, the Cloudeclipse is the shoe we believe lives up to that monicker.
Read full review

Runner up

In short
The Brooks Ghost Max is a good, text book daily trainer which can perform a variety of runs well. It has a balanced ride with good stability and a typical Brooks comfortable upper. The Ghost Max is a spinoff series of the regular Ghost. It has a softer, more cushioned ride which feels more lively than the Ghost 15.
Pros

  • Comfortable, luxurious upper
  • Softer than regular Ghost
  • More forefoot cushioning
  • Modern ride
  • Stable
Cons

  • Lower than average outsole durability
  • Laces fray easily
Who should buy it

If you find the Ghost 15 too firm and flat, the Ghost Max is worth a try. It has a more modern ride which feels more engaging.

Who should not buy it

If you buy the Ghost every year because you enjoy how firm, stable and consistent it is from year to year, you shouldn’t buy the Ghost Max.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
6 mm
Toe
33 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Ghost has been one of our favorite daily trainers for a few years now. Brooks now comes with the Ghost Max, modernising the Ghost by making it a more comfortable and exciting shoe.
Read full review

Also consider

In short
The Nike Vomero 17 is a good, premium trainer that delivers a cushioned, stable ride. It has a balanced ride suitable for most types of runs. While it isn't as exciting as some of the other premium trainers, it excels in outsole durability. Version 17 is an improvement over version 16. It has a plusher, more energetic ride with smoother transitions due to the removal of the outdated Zoom airbag.
Pros

  • Smoother ride due to the removal of the airbag
  • Lighter than previous version
  • Extremely durable outsole
  • Softer ride
Cons

  • Warm upper due to the inner sleeve
  • Price has increased
Who should buy it

If you’re a runner looking for a more modern, more engaging Pegasus, the Vomero 17 is the shoe for you. The ZoomX in its midsole gives it a much more exciting ride than the boring Pegasus ride.

Who should not buy it

If you’re looking for a similar ride to the Pegasus Turbo 2, you should skip the Vomero 17 because it’s much heavier and not as fast. The Vomero 17 is more of a daily trainer than a shoe you can use for speedwork.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.6 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
People have been accusing Nike of focusing on their top-tier marathon racing shoes for the elite while leaving unexciting shoes for the daily training. Here comes the Vomero, one of the most exciting and versatile Nike shoe in a while. It's a Pegasus on steroids.
Read full review

Best for Fast Training

If you are at the point of looking for a fast training shoe - you'll probably don't need me explaining what it is.

We call fast trainers all those shoes that are lighter and more responsive than your average daily trainer, but still maintaining the comfort and durability of a shoe that needs to last more than a few races.

The winner

In short
The Kinvara Pro is an exciting new, stiff speed trainer with a carbon plate. It performs well at a variety of paces due to its stable ride and its snappy forefoot. It’s a great training companion for the Endorphin Pro and Elite if you want a similar ride at a cheaper price point. While it doesn’t have as much bounce or energy return as other speed trainers, it still has a fast, propulsive ride.
Pros

  • Stiff ride, similar to the Saucony racers
  • Stable ride for such a thick midsole
  • Energy-saving forefoot rocker
  • Comfortable upper
  • Highly cushioned
Cons

  • Midsole foams feel a bit flat
  • Low outsole durability
  • Narrow fit
Who should buy it

If you find the Endorphin Speed 3 too soft or flexible for speed training, the Kinvara Pro is a good option which delivers a more similar feel to the Saucony super shoes. It has a more stable, snappier ride.

Who should not buy it

If you prefer minimal rides with a lot of ground feel, look elsewhere because the Kinvara Pro is a firm, maximalist trainer. If you like flexible, natural rides, the Kivara Pro is also not for you.

Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8.4 oz
Heel
42 mm
Carbon plate
Half length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
34 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Kinvara Pro wins this category for us because of the tremendous value for money. You get a carbon-plated running shoe that has a stiff, stable ride for a very good price.
Read full review

Runner up

In short
The Brooks Hyperion Max is a lightweight trainer that can handle many different types of up-tempo runs. While the shoe felt great during many tempo and long runs, it never felt fast enough for those speed workouts. This shoe is a great option if you’re wanting a shoe that has a little more stack height for those faster days but it doesn’t necessarily make you feel like you’re flying.
Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Breathable upper
  • comfortable for long efforts
Cons

  • Not bouncy
  • Not particularly fast feel
Who should buy it

The ideal runner for this shoe is someone who is looking for a lightweight daily trainer that has some stack height. If you want a lightweight alternative to a carbon plated shoe, such as the Brooks Hyperion Elite, or need a little more shoe than the Brooks Hyperion Tempo, then this shoe fits that category.

Who should not buy it

If you want a shoe that has a bouncy midsole or something that helps you feel like you’re running faster, then this shoe fall shorts in that category. It’s much more of faster daily trainer than it is a fast shoe. Also, if you don’t like a rocker feel to your heel-to-toe transition, then avoid this shoe as well.

Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
7.5 oz
Heel
34 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
26 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
10
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Not the fastest shoe, but a good shoe that allows you to pick up the pace for long mileage. For many people, this could be their daily trainer - because of how versatile it is at different speeds.
Read full review

Also consider

In short
The ASICS Noosa Tri 15 is a fast-looking and feeling shoe. It’s marketed as a Triathlon shoe that is easy to get on and off I can see why. I thoroughly enjoy wearing these for fast training runs under 10k and even for some longer distances.
Pros

  • Lightweight and Breathable
  • Easy to get on and off
  • Unique colors
Cons

  • Outsole is slippery on wet surfaces
  • The tongue rides up a little high
Who should buy it

These are geared towards the runner who is looking for a fun daily trainer that is great for speed workouts. It’s also a good choice for those individuals who are triathletes, due to the easy on-and-off capabilities.

Who should not buy it

These are not for the individual who is looking for a shoe that can wear many hats. It’s pretty much a shoe that can only be worn on the road/track in dry conditions. I also wouldn’t recommend it to anywho who doesn’t like attention-drawing shoes because they are eye-catchers.

Main Specs
Type
Lightweight
Weight
8 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Officially a triathlon shoe, the Noosa Tri is a fast, lightweight shoe with some inherent stability.
Read full review

Best for Trail Running

Trail running means a lot of different things. From the runner who will run in muddy terrains, to people who will climb and descend high inclinations, to people running in snow and rocks.

The shoes in this selection are good "all rounders". Please check our trail running shoe guide to find more specific shoes to different uses and terrains.

The winner

In short
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads, grass, and gravel, the Stinson 7 goes the distance in plush comfort.
Pros

  • Exceptionally stable on road and non-technical terrain
  • Plush cushioning
  • High stack protects from underfoot hazards
Cons

  • Subpar agility in tight spaces and on rocks
  • Outsole can get slippery on rock when wet
  • Break-in period may be required before optimal comfort
Who should buy it

For a road-to-trail runner or non-technical trail runner or hiker looking for a stable, maximalist shoe to go the distance in comfort.

Who should not buy it

Trail runners who primarily run on technical, uneven terrain with tight rocks where a lot of agility is required or speed is the focus.

Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
12.7 oz
Heel
45 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
40 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
6.0
Traction
6.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Of all the trail shoes we tested this year, the Stinson 7 wins because of the supreme comfort, cushioning and protection. If you are looking for comfort on the trails, look no further than the Stinson 7.
Read full review

Runner up

In short
The Salomon Thundercross is a blast to run in. Isn’t that such an awesome name ?! It’s a shoe that performs well on any terrain and looks amazing doing it. For the price, you can’t beat it. Salomon never seems to disappoint me!
Pros

  • Great price
  • Can be worn year-round
  • Can be used for racing and training
  • Secure fit
Cons

  • Runs a little warm
Who should buy it

This shoe is a great choice if you’re looking for a very versatile trail shoe that won’t cost you close to $200 like most trail shoes. It’s a great choice for short or long distances and can be used on various terrains. If you are a runner who doesn’t have a vast amount of trail shoes and looking for just one pair, these would be it. You can race and train in them year-round.

Who should not buy it

This is a hard one. I think this shoe could be for everyone. It’s good for various distances and all types of surfaces. If I had to think of a situation I wouldn’t want them for, it would probably be a very rocky terrain. The protection is nice but there are other trail shoes out there that offer more.

Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
31 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
4 mm
Toe
27 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Salomon is one of the leaders of the trail running segment. They have a shoe for every use and for every terrain. The Thundercross takes Salomon know-how and packages in a trail running shoe that can (almost) do it all while staying at an affordable price.
Read full review

Also consider

In short
The Voyage NITRO 3 are redesigned, lighter and filled with Puma technology. They are an optimal all-weather, all-season trainer with plenty of cushion and grip to tackle any type of terrain you may encounter.
Pros

  • Ultra durable
  • Superior quality
  • Great for winter conditions
Cons

  • Narrow toebox
  • Not breathable for hot conditions
Who should buy it

Anyone looking for a stylish trail shoe that checks several boxes should consider the Voyage NITRO 3s. Whether you’re training, racing, hiking or just enjoying outdoor adventures, this shoe will not disappoint.

Who should not buy it

I’d steer clear of these sneakers if you’re looking for a firm, low profile, racing shoe. Also, due to the all season upper material, they might be a bit warm for hot summer days.

Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.6 oz
Heel
34 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
4 mm
Toe
30 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
The Voyage Nitro 3 is a very tough shoe, able to withstand the worst treatment. Quite lightweight for being a max cushioned trail shoe and priced very reasonably.
Read full review

Best Racing Shoes

Last, our selection of best racing shoes.

We are talking about optimising performance - so the choice is going to be extremely personal in the end. Here are our favorites.

Only word of advice: don't buy one if you don't need them. They're not meant for daily training and you should really keep them for your races or your training at race pace.

The winner

In short
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 is a soft, bouncy super shoe best suited to marathons. It doesn't offer as much speed assistance as other top tier carbon racers because of its gentle forefoot rocker but it's incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. Version 3 has been improved in a number of areas including stability, cushioning and weight. The forefoot is softer so it doesn't feel as fast as the Vaporfly 2 but its ride is plusher and it has more long-distance comfort.
Pros

  • Increase in cushioning
  • Stability improvement
  • More comfortable fit
  • Better breathability
  • Lighter weight
Cons

  • Less aggressive toe spring than competitors
  • Low durability
Who should buy it

If you’re looking for a super shoe with an accommodating fit and a super lightweight build, the Vaporfly 3 is an excellent choice. It has good stability and a soft, propulsive ride.

Who should not buy it

If you want a really durable super shoe that you can use for training as well as racing, the Vaporfly 3 is not for you- its ZoomX foam is extremely soft and delicate.

Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
6.5 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
5.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
We are waiting for the Alphafly 3... in the meantime we believe the Vaporfly 3 to be the goldilock choice for a shoe that is fast (really fast) but also cushioned and comfortable.
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Runner up

In short
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is a top-tier marathon racer with a soft, energetic ride. It has smooth, stable transitions and a stiff carbon plate for speed assistance. Version 2 is a vast improvement over the original version although it comes in at a higher weight and a much higher price.
Pros

  • Aggressive plate placement
  • Increase in energy return
  • Increase in cushioning
  • Relatively stable ride
Cons

  • Forked plate results in less propulsion
  • Weight increase over v1
  • Huge price increase
Who should buy it

This racer is recommended for runners looking for a very soft super shoe which can handle long-distances. The Rocket X 2 is for runners looking for a propulsive alternative to the Vaporfly 2 & Adios Pro 3 which has more stability.

Who should not buy it

If you prefer a firm racer with a lightweight build, the Rocket X 2 is not the shoe for you. It’s not one of the lighter super shoes and its soft ride is built for long-distance comfort.

Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
8.3 oz
Heel
36 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
5 mm
Toe
31 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
9.0
Team review
Finally Hoka also has a top-tier racing running shoe. It is our top pick if you look for a fast marathon shoe with a bouncy ride.
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Also consider

In short
The ASICS Magic Speed 3 is a budget friendly workout/race day shoe that is very light and very responsive. The shoes sole purpose is to go fast!
Pros

  • Pleasing pricetag
  • Propulsive midsole
  • Lockdown of the upper
  • Lightweight
  • ASICSGRIP outsole
Cons

  • Rigid carbon fiber plate can cause some discomfort
Who should buy it

The ASICS Magic Speed 3 is intended for fast days, whether for a workout or on race day. It also has enough midsole to help protect your feet on longer distances.

Who should not buy it

The shoe is not intended for easy running as the rigidness of the carbon fiber plate can get a little uncomfortable, especially around your forefoot/toe area.

Also, if you are thinking the ride of the shoe is bouncy it is not. The midfoot of the shoe is also a little narrow so if you have a wider feet it can cause some stability issues.

Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
7.8 oz
Heel
34.5 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
7 mm
Toe
27.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Magic Speed 3 is a great racing shoe for distances between the 5k and the half marathon. It shines for 10ks. Asics combines their soft, bouncy FFBlast+ foam to a full-length carbon plate, making it a very propulsive but comfortable shoe to pick the pace in.
Read full review

Quick Questions you might have

Can I run in a men's shoe?

Yes you can, but we recommend to buy a women version whenever you can. Women have different body mass than men so the amount of cushioning required is different, even at the same shoe size.

Can I run with gym shoes?

We suggest doing the opposite: most daily trainer running shoes work well for general gym use. But gym-specific shoes (lifting, aerobic classes...) make for terrible running shoes.