Cushioning Running Shoes Reviews

Cushioned running shoes make up one of the largest segments of the running shoe market. Most cushioned shoes fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum of available options: more cushioning than minimal models, but without major support or corrective elements. Meant for runners that have little to no pronation, cushioned running shoes provide protection and shock absorption with little to no additional support for strong pronators or issues like exceptionally high or low arches.

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Weight
9.80 oz.
Drop
10 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Brooks Launch 3 is a neutral lightweight trainer that delivers a smooth and responsive ride in a road running shoe. This shoe is an excellent option for runners looking for a fast feeling...” Read expert review
Lynn Clark
Running Expert
Weight
10.30 oz.
Drop
9 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Fresh Foam 1080 is filled with potential. Unfortunately the Fresh Foam cushioning still felt to firm and the upper caused rubbing issues on the inside of my foot.” Read expert review
Sean Felty
Long Distance Runner, Neutral Shoe Expert
Weight
7.40 oz.
Drop
8 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Nike LunarTempo 2 is a lightweight cushioned shoe that has just a splash of rubber on the outsole. Besides a few cosmetic adjustments, not much changed since the previous model.” Read expert review
Frank May
Fast Runner, Triathlete and Engineer
Weight
11.10 oz.
Drop
4 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Asics 33-M 2 is a lightweight highly cushioned trainer designed for runners with a neutral foot strike. This shoe is an excellent option for runners looking for a trainer that can provide a...” Read expert review
Lynn Clark
Running Expert
Weight
10.20 oz.
Drop
12 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Saucony Cohesion 8s are excellent inexpensive daily trainers that out perform some higher end running shoes. Durable, and comfortable, they’re a great fit for almost any entry level runner.” Read expert review
Frank May
Fast Runner, Triathlete and Engineer
Weight
8.70 oz.
Drop
11 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Adidas Duramo 7s are budget shoes that offer style with a low weight. Although they may not last as long as similar models, they provide a snug and light ride without emptying your wallet.” Read expert review
Frank May
Fast Runner, Triathlete and Engineer
Weight
10.50 oz.
Drop
10 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Asics Gel Contend 3 is a budget shoe that offers a cushioned ride in an inexpensive package. This focus on cushioning makes the shoe slightly heavier than similar models, but does not take away...” Read expert review
Frank May
Fast Runner, Triathlete and Engineer
Weight
oz.
Drop
mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The New Balance 490v2s is a budget shoe that delivers on everything that it promises. It’s a reliable neutral trainer with adequate cushioning and support, with a low price point.” Read expert review
Frank May
Fast Runner, Triathlete and Engineer
Weight
9.90 oz.
Drop
10 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Pegasus 32 is a lightweight, daily performance trainer designed for neutral runners looking for a shoe which can handle high mileage outings and fast-paced training while delivering a smooth and...” Read expert review
Travis Trampe
Running Expert
Weight
13.50 oz.
Drop
4 mm.
Category
Cushioning
“The Hoka One One Mafete 4 is a maximal trail shoe for runners requiring additional medial support that many other maximal cushioned shoes fail to provide.  With an excellent locked upper...” Read expert review
Thomas Caughlan
Ultrarunner and 10-Year Running Shoe Tester