{"id":416,"date":"2025-08-24T11:57:53","date_gmt":"2025-08-24T11:57:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/2025\/08\/24\/the-8-best-running-shoes-for-men\/"},"modified":"2025-08-24T11:57:53","modified_gmt":"2025-08-24T11:57:53","slug":"the-8-best-running-shoes-for-men","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/2025\/08\/24\/the-8-best-running-shoes-for-men\/","title":{"rendered":"The 8 Best Running Shoes for Men"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<a id=\"our-picks-of-mens-running-shoes\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>Our Picks of Men&#8217;s Running Shoes<\/h2>\n<p><a id=\"best-overall\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best Overall<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Asics Novablast 5<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.7<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.9<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.3<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Soft and bouncy foam<\/p>\n<p>Pace versatility<\/p>\n<p>Smooth ride<\/p>\n<p>Premium comfort<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-novablast-5\">Asics Novablast 5<\/a> is our go-to all-around running shoe. For daily mileage, it&#8217;s comfortable, plush, and enjoyable. For faster running, the resilient midsole has bouncy energy return, and the rocker geometry helps keep things rolling. Lead tester and USA Track &amp; Field certified coach Nathaniel Bailey gushes, \u201c<em>Heel-strikers will love the smooth rolling feeling, and as a mid-foot striker, I love the trampoline-like forefoot on long runs. This is one of the most universally comfortable shoes I&#8217;ve ever run in.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">269 g | 9.50 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">5 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>This version of the Novablast is a little more optimized for daily comfort than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-novablast-4\">the previous model<\/a>, happiest at easy-to-moderate paces, but we still have enjoyed small doses of 5K-paced training in this shoe. The lightweight and breathable upper of the <strong>Novablast 5<\/strong> is comfortable and well-designed to provide a good fit for many runners. The versatility in fit, ride, and performance is what makes this such an easy recommendation for many road runners. If you want a fun and reliable training partner at a great price, you&#8217;ll be hard-pressed to find a better option.  <\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-novablast-5\">Asics Novablast 5 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Novablast 5 is our favorite daily trainer, with attributes that make it approachable and ideal for a wide variety of runners and preferences.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"most-comfortable\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Most Comfortable<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>9.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>2.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Plush ride<\/p>\n<p>Smooth transitions<\/p>\n<p>Premium feel<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Chunky<\/p>\n<p>Short upper fit<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-more-v5\">New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5<\/a> gives you a massive chunk of soft and smooth foam to run on. It&#8217;s one of the most comfortable cruisers in our lineup thanks to the excellent underfoot cushioning, smooth geometry, and comfortable upper materials. Lead tester Nathaniel notes, \u201c<em>I love how soft this feels underfoot \u2014 it seriously saves my legs and joints.<\/em>\u201d This is our go-to choice for recovery days when we want to feel insulated from the road. <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">346 g | 12.19 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">7 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Thanks to the excellent rocker geometry, the <strong>More v5<\/strong> rolls along smoothly, making it enjoyable for long runs. Thanks to a wide base and excellent sidewall structure, it&#8217;s also one of the most stable max-cushioned shoes we&#8217;ve tested. That said, this is the heaviest shoe in our lineup \u2014 though we think it&#8217;s worth its weight. If you&#8217;re after a plush running experience to log miles at low paces, it&#8217;s hard to beat the More v5.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/new-balance-fresh-foam-x-more-v5\">New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>For true comfort on the pavement, this shoe is well worth its weight.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"most-stable\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Most Stable<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Saucony Tempus 2<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.4<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Excellent stability and support<\/p>\n<p>Responsive ride<\/p>\n<p>Good traction<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Midfoot may feel firm to some runners<\/p>\n<p>Fit runs narrower<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Unlike traditional stability shoes, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-tempus-2\">Saucony Tempus 2<\/a> is actually <em>fun<\/em> to run in. Pairing a firmer frame with an energetic midsole results in a shoe that provides significant amounts of support without compromising the ability to change pace. This shoe feels best at comfortable to moderate paces, and we love it most on long runs, where the combination of lower weight, excellent cushioning, and sneaky support left us feeling great two hours in. Track coach and lead tester Nathaniel Bailey remarked, \u201c<em>The Tempus reset my expectations for stability shoes. It supports my feet and keeps me solidly locked in place without compromising all the fun in my runs.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">258 g | 9.11 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">10 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>We don&#8217;t have a lot of things to complain about with the <strong>Tempus 2<\/strong>. The fit runs a little narrow, but we don&#8217;t think it will be too narrow for most runners. It&#8217;s also worth noting that the midfoot of this shoe is firm but not uncomfortable. Overall, this is a top-notch stability trainer that we think will have wide appeal. It&#8217;s actually <em>so good<\/em> that our lead tester \u2014 a lifelong neutral runner \u2014 has added the Tempus to his rotation of personal running shoes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-tempus-2\">Saucony Tempus 2 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Tempus 2 is the most fun stability shoe we&#8217;ve tested, and it&#8217;s stuck around in our personal rotations as well.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<div class=\"blogTip\">\n<p><strong>MYTH-BUSTING: Who Needs a Stability Shoe?<\/strong><br \/>The vast majority of runners don&#8217;t <em>need<\/em> a stability shoe, regardless of whether they pronate or supinate or are \u201c<em>neutral<\/em>\u201d runners. In fact, most current research suggests that choosing a shoe based on your movement patterns is ineffective at preventing injuries, with very limited exceptions. The best predictor of whether a shoe will work for you is how it feels when you try it on \u2014  <strong>if it feels great, awesome. If not, move on.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><a id=\"best-under-100\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best Under $100<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">New Balance FuelCell Propel v5<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>4.7<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>6.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Comfortable on long runs<\/p>\n<p>Responsive at faster paces<\/p>\n<p>Well-made upper<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Feels heavy<\/p>\n<p>Plate is less comfortable<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you&#8217;re hunting for a good deal and a comfortable shoe, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/new-balance-fuelcell-propel-v5\">New Balance FuelCell Propel v5<\/a> is your best bet. These shoes are ideal for the easy-to-mid-paced runner who doesn&#8217;t care too much about pushing the pace. Much of what we love about these shoes is their underfoot comfort \u2014 they performed best on casual runs and hot days. Nathaniel Bailey, our lead tester, said, \u201c<em>These shoes were very comfortable during even my long runs, with strategic cushioning and a well-designed upper<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">298 g | 10.52 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">7 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The <strong>FuelCell Propel v5<\/strong> isn&#8217;t without its limitations. It is one of the heavier shoes in our lineup, and the plastic midsole plate that helps provide some stiffness also makes this shoe a bit uncomfortable on uneven surfaces. It&#8217;s firm yet well-cushioned, and reasonably versatile across varied moderate paces and efforts. For most casual runners, this shoe is a worthy contender \u2014 especially at its current discounted rate of up to 45% off of retail value.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/new-balance-fuelcell-propel-v5\">New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The FuelCell Propel v5 is well-cushioned and comfortable for long runs.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"best-for-beginners\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best for Beginners<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Saucony Ride 18<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Reliable and predictable ride<\/p>\n<p>Great cushioning<\/p>\n<p>Comfortable upper<\/p>\n<p>Great value<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Traction is mediocre<\/p>\n<p>Not the best for fast running<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>In just about every case, new runners are best served by a simple and reliable daily trainer with solid cushioning, a relatively natural geometry, and a stable-neutral ride that also works well for walking. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-ride-18\">Saucony Ride 18<\/a> checks all of those boxes. It&#8217;s not <em>just<\/em> a shoe for beginners, but it provides great value and a set of features that we think new runners will enjoy and benefit from. The midsole foam does a great job of insulating your legs from harsh landings, with our lead tester commenting, \u201c<em>I really enjoy this shoe for my easy mileage. It&#8217;s soft without feeling mushy, and the upper feels great on days when I just want comfort.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">287 g | 10.13 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">6 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>If you&#8217;re a new runner, you might be wondering why we recommend this option over something like the excellent <strong>Novablast 5<\/strong>. There are two reasons. First, the geometry is more natural. The <strong>Ride<\/strong> doesn&#8217;t have an extremely noticeable rocker or a trampoline effect, letting your body more easily find its natural movement patterns. Second, it has a lower stack height, which feels a little more planted and stable for folks just starting out. This also means they feel significantly better while walking between bouts of running. Overall, the Ride is a great and durable introductory shoe, a consistent training companion, and comes at a reasonable price point. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-ride-18\">Saucony Ride 18 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Ride makes a great daily mileage shoe, and it&#8217;s featureset make it a good option for new runners.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"best-for-durable-cushioning\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best for Durable Cushioning<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Nike Vomero 18<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.8<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>4.8<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>3.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.2<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Absorptive cushioning<\/p>\n<p>Very smooth rocker<\/p>\n<p>Great whole-foot comfort<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Heavy and a bit chunky<\/p>\n<p>Best at low speeds<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The last thing anyone wants is a pair of shoes that squish flat, leaving your joints to soak up all the shock of your strides. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/nike-vomero-18\">Nike Vomero 18<\/a> has got your back. This affordable shoe has a thick stack that&#8217;s exceptionally comfortable, made of a pairing of two of Nike&#8217;s top midsole foams that provide resiliency and bounce over long miles under heavier footfalls. Track coach Nathaniel Bailey added this shoe to his personal rotation after testing, noting, \u201c<em>The Vomero feels planted and nimble and runs oh-so-smoothly. It&#8217;s soft but not pillowy and still reasonably energetic<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">329 g | 11.62 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">11 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>With a more moderate forefoot rocker than most and a slightly above-average heel-toe drop, the <strong>Vomero<\/strong> rolls along pleasantly and easily. It has a super comfortable and breathable upper that easily accommodates feet of varying volumes. Though it&#8217;s a tad tall and chunky, this combination of soft, resilient foam on top, supported by firm, structured foam underneath, makes this added weight well worth it. This is the best shoe we&#8217;ve tested for maintaining cushioning, with a durable build that keeps up with you.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/nike-vomero-18\">Nike Vomero 18 review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Vomero has made its way into Nathaniel&#8217;s regular rotation (outside of testing) thanks to its comfortable upper and plush ride that doesn&#8217;t feel clunky.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"best-for-race-training\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best for Race Training<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.4<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>4.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>7.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Best-in-class versatility<\/p>\n<p>Well-cushioned<\/p>\n<p>Fun ride, especially at faster paces<\/p>\n<p>Incredible value<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If your typical week of running involves regular pace changes or training for a race, then the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/adidas-adizero-evo-sl\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/a> is perfect for you. Adidas&#8217;s responsive and cushy foam in the midsole pairs with a smooth, early midfoot rocker and a lightweight, breathable upper. The result is an incredibly versatile shoe that&#8217;s comfortable on easy runs and engaging when we push the pace. Our lead tester and track coach, Nathaniel, said, \u201c<em>This has quickly become my favorite shoe \u2014 not just in our lineup, but of all time.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">247 g | 8.73 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">9 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>While it doesn&#8217;t have quite as much top-end speed as some plated daily trainers and true race shoes, the <strong>Adizero Evo SL<\/strong> is far more comfortable (and fun) at relaxed paces. As a result, we reach for it regularly. It&#8217;s become a favorite for progression runs that start slow and finish fast, as well as big, long runs with chunks of faster paces. If you&#8217;re training for a race and only want to have one shoe, this is the one we recommend. And if you have a rotation, it works great as an option for workouts at moderate paces, hard long runs, or faster easy days.  <\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/adidas-adizero-evo-sl\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Evo SL is simple, yet extremely versatile. It&#8217;s a unique shoe that stands out for it&#8217;s performance and value.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"best-for-race-day\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #000; font-size: 1.25rem;\">Best for Race Day<\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #555; font-size: 1.0rem;\">Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; vertical-align: top; margin: 15px 75px 10px 0;\">\n<div style=\"display: inline-block; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; width: calc(100% - 149px);\">\n<ul class=\"rating_chart\">\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Cushioning<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>8.8<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Upper Comfort<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>5.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Stability<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>4.0<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Weight<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>9.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"rating_chart_item\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Traction<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<strong>3.5<\/strong>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus_wrap\">\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Extremely fast<\/p>\n<p>High cushioning and responsiveness<\/p>\n<p>Insanely light<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"plusminus\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Struggles on loose surfaces<\/p>\n<p>Narrow fit through the midfoot is less accommodating<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-metaspeed-sky-paris\">Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/a> has an incredibly low weight, high energy return midsole foam, and an aggressive-performing yet natural-feeling geometry. While other popular racing shoes have a learning curve to getting the most propulsion, the Metaspeed Sky Paris does not. Track coach and lead tester Nathaniel Bailey pointed out, \u201c<em>This combo of a natural rocker and a stiff upper makes it easy for pretty much anyone to race in the Metaspeed.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>SPECIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"table table-bordered\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Weight\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">194 g | 6.85 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Best Use\u00a0<button type=\"button\" class=\"btn btn-outline-dark btn-sm py-0 px-1\" style=\"line-height:1.2; font-size:0.8em;\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">i<\/button><\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">Ready to race<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"row\" style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px; color:#495057;\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/th>\n<td style=\"width:50%; padding: 8px;\">6 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Sacrificing weight for race day does leave the <strong>Metaspeed<\/strong> light on traction. It struggles to bite on wet tracks and gravelly corners \u2014 and, like most racing shoes, has very little lateral stability. Yet, for most road races, this ultralight shoe is our favorite choice from a road mile to a full marathon. While most other racing shoes only work well at high speeds, this pair works with diverse strides and is comfortable (for a race shoe).  <\/p>\n<p><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-metaspeed-sky-paris\">Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris review<\/a><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Metaspeed Sky Paris is now the shoe we grab for almost any race on pavement.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><h2>Compare Product Specifications<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"content_table_xwide\" style=\"position: relative; padding: 0 50px 0 0;\">\n<a id=\"spec_leftButton\" class=\"ct_leftButton\" onclick=\"document.getElementById('spec-table-wrapper').scrollBy(-250,0)\"><br \/>\n<i class=\"fa fa-chevron-circle-left\" style=\"font-size:64px;opacity:0.2;\"\/><br \/>\n<\/a>    <\/p>\n<div id=\"spec-table-wrapper\" class=\"ct-table-wrapper\" style=\"width: 100%; overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch;\">\n<div style=\"min-width:3075px;\">\n<table style=\"width: calc(100% - 15px); min-width: 3060px; vertical-align:top;\" class=\"compare_table table\">\n<tr style=\"vertical-align:bottom;\">\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:bottom;\">Specifications<\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Asics Novablast 5<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Asics Gel-Kayano 31<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Saucony Tempus 2<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Saucony Endorphin Speed 4<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Puma Velocity Nitro 3<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Saucony Ride 18<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Nike Vomero 18<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Brooks Hyperion Max 2<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Adidas Adizero SL2<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">New Balance FuelCell Propel v5<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Nike Vaporfly 4<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Hoka Mach 6<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_title\" style=\"background-color:#EEEEEE; vertical-align:bottom;\">Puma Deviate Nitro 3<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Awards<\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/editors-choice_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Editors' Choice Award\" title=\"Awarded to the very best overall products\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best Overall<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/editors-choice_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Editors' Choice Award\" title=\"Awarded to the very best overall products\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Most Comfortable<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/editors-choice_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Editors' Choice Award\" title=\"Awarded to the very best overall products\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Most Stable<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/top-pick_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Top Pick Award\" title=\"The best for a specific application\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best for Race Training<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/top-pick_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Top Pick Award\" title=\"The best for a specific application\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/top-pick_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Top Pick Award\" title=\"The best for a specific application\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best for Beginners<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/top-pick_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Top Pick Award\" title=\"The best for a specific application\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best for Durable Cushioning<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/best-buy_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Best Buy Award\" title=\"Offers the most bang-for-the-buck\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best Under $100<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/images\/top-pick_30x69.png\" width=\"69\" height=\"30\" alt=\"Top Pick Award\" title=\"The best for a specific application\" style=\"width: auto;\"\/><\/p>\n<p><i>Best for Race Day<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_awards\" style=\"vertical-align:top; text-align:left;\">\u00a0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"(per shoe, size 10.5)\">Measured Weight<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">269 g | 9.50 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">346 g | 12.19 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">331 g | 11.68 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">258 g | 9.11 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">247 g | 8.73 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">256 g | 9.03 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">285 g | 10.07 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">287 g | 10.13 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">329 g | 11.62 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">274 g | 9.68 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">303 g | 10.70 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">265 g | 9.36 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">298 g | 10.52 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">194 g | 6.85 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">183 g | 6.45 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">246 g | 8.69 oz<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">296 g | 10.43 oz<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\" data-bs-toggle=\"tooltip\" data-bs-html=\"true\" title=\"GearLab Running Team recommended best use\">Best Use<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Relaxed running<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Ready to race<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Ready to race<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Versatile for variable paces<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">5 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">12 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">10 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">9 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">11 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">11 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">11 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">8 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">13 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">9 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">9 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">8 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">12 mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Measured Heel Stack Height<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">41  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">42  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">42 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">39 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">34 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">41  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">37  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">39  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">39  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">36 mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">38  mm<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">41  mm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Midsole<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">FF Blast Max<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Fresh Foam X<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">FF Blast + Eco<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN\/PWRRUN PB<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Lightstrike Pro<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN PB<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Profoam<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN+<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">ZooomX, ReactX<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">DNA Flash v2<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">DNA Loft v3<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Lightstrike Pro, Lightstrike<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">FuelCell<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">FF Turbo Plus<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">ZoomX<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Supercritical EVA<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">NITROFOAM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Plate Type<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Nylon<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Full-length plastic<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Full-length plastic<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Rocker Angle<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">26.5 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">21.5 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">23.5 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">18.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">21.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">25.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">21.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">19.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">24.5 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">23.5 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">21.0 deg<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">26.5 deg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Rocker Apex Location<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">56.0%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">59.0%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">69.6%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">62.8%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">52.0%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">67.7%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">66.7%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">60.0%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">56.0%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">62.5%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">58.3%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">53.3%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">68.3%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">68.3%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">57.9%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">62.8%<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">62.8%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Upper<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered jacquard mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh\/knit<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered knit<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Motionwrap 2.0<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Creel jaqquard<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Engineered mesh<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Outsole<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">AHAR LO<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Hybrid AsicsGrip<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Continental rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">PumaGrip<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">AsicsGrip rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Rubber<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Heel Tab Type<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Finger loop<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Finger loop<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Finger loop<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Finger loop<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Extended heel pull<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Pull tab<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Pull tab<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Extended heel pull<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">None<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Style<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Max-Cushion<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Stability<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Max-Cushion<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Stability<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"compare_names\" scope=\"row\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"color:#004276\">Sizes Available<\/span><\/th>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6-15 US, regular &amp; wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-16 US, regular, wide &amp; extra wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6-16 US, regular, wide &amp; extra wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-15 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6.5-16 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-15 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7 &#8211; 14 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-15 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6-18 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-15 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7 &#8211; 15 US, narrow, regular, wide &amp; extra wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">4-19 US, regular &amp; wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-18 US, regular &amp; wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">3.5-13 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">6-16.5 US, regular<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items compare_odd\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">7-14 US, regular &amp; wide<\/td>\n<td class=\"compare_items\" style=\"vertical-align:top;\">4-19 US, regular<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"ct_rightButton\" onclick=\"spec_rightScroll()\"><br \/>\n<i class=\"fa fa-chevron-circle-right\" style=\"font-size:64px;opacity:0.2;\"\/><br \/>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<p><figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>In addition to running all these shoes through their paces, we sent a second pair to our testing facility to get precise measurements on things like stack height, compression stiffness, and rocker angle.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"how-we-tested\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>How We Tested<\/h2>\n<p>Our running experts have tested hundreds of pairs of running shoes since 2011, purchasing every pair ourselves. Each shoe is put through a rigorous set of runs, including a standardized 6-mile test loop that contains hardpacked dirt, loose gravel, asphalt, concrete, and grass surfaces. Every single pair is tested over <em>at least<\/em> 50 miles, with many closer to 100. In the lab, we cut every pair in half, taking copious measurements and examining construction materials. <\/p>\n<p>We then score each shoe on <strong>six weighted metrics:<\/strong> <\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Cushioning <em>(35% of overall score weighting)<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Upper Comfort <em>(25% weighting)<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Stability <em>(20% weighting)<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Responsiveness <em>(10% weighting)<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/p>\n<div class=\"blogTip\">\n<div class=\"blogTipText\"><strong>How We Measure Stack Height<\/strong><br \/>\nThere&#8217;s <em>no industry standard<\/em> for measuring heel-to-toe drop, so each company chooses its own way to calculate this \u2014 with no requirement to divulge their methods. To have standardized and comparable data, we cut every shoe in half and measure all of these things ourselves based on the <a href=\"https:\/\/worldathletics.org\/about-iaaf\/documents\/technical-information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">World Athletics stack height standards<\/a> used to regulate professional racing.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a id=\"why-trust-gearlab\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>Why Trust GearLab<\/h2>\n<p>A team of experts and professionals helps to shape this review. Starting with lead tester <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/author\/nathaniel-bailey\">Nathaniel Bailey<\/a>, who has always loved running. He competed in track and cross country at the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels. Now, he continues to chase \u201c<em>fast<\/em>\u201d times on the roads. Nathaniel is a USATF-certified coach who works with post-collegiate and high school runners, sharing his passion for the sport and continuing to develop his knowledge of endurance sports and physiology. <\/p>\n<p>Professional running biomechanics consultant, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.babygearlab.com\/author\/carrie-vickers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Carrie Vickers<\/a>, helped to inform and design our testing methods and provided additional guidance for our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/topics\/shoes-and-boots\/best-running-shoes-men\/buying-advice\">advice on how to choose the best shoes for you<\/a>. Carrie is an accomplished national-class runner, having ranked in numerous Olympic, US National, and World Championship competitions for steeplechase. Though it has since been broken, she once held the world record for the 2000-meter steeplechase. Carrie also helped to design our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.babygearlab.com\/topics\/getting-around\/best-jogging-stroller\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">jogging stroller review<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p>Our laboratory team includes manufacturing engineer, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techgearlab.com\/author\/sentry-kelly\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Sentry Kelly<\/a>, taking apart and meticulously measuring every pair of shoes in a standardized and comparable way. <\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>We put each pair of shoes through standardized testing to provide a fair assessment.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"analysis-and-test-results\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>Analysis and Test Results<\/h2>\n<p>Running shoes are often designed with a specific purpose. Max-cushioned shoes are designed to eat up mileage while providing excellent comfort. Race shoes are designed for speed at the expense of everything else. It doesn&#8217;t make sense to buy a race shoe for your easy runs, so we&#8217;ll break down each performance metric into three categories: Daily Trainers, Max-Cushioned Trainers, and Race Shoes. <\/p>\n<p>Between our article on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/topics\/shoes-and-boots\/best-running-shoes-men\/buying-advice\">how to choose running shoes<\/a> and our detailed reviews, we believe you&#8217;ll find the best running shoe for your needs and budget here. Read on to see how each contender performs in the different test metrics.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"whats-the-best-value\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>What&#8217;s the Best Value?<\/h3>\n<p>Value is a huge consideration when you&#8217;re logging miles. Some runners want to get the most mileage per dollar they can, while others care more about performance than durability. The <strong>Asics Novablast 5<\/strong> is our favorite model for value, blending top-tier performance, superb comfort, and exceptional versatility at a reasonable price. The <strong>Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/strong> is another standout contender with incredible performance at a surprisingly decent price. <\/p>\n<div class=\"blogTip\">\n<p><strong>Budget Shoes for Beginners<\/strong><br \/>Burning through running shoes can get expensive \u2014 we have firsthand experience with that. Shopping for a good deal is always advisable, but we think that super low-budget, entry-level shoes are almost never worth the money. Instead of purchasing an entry-level trainer like that, we <em>highly<\/em> recommend shopping around for previous models of our award-winners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Past versions of shoes are always a great value, though they tend to sell out quickly after the new model is released. Leading up to new version drops, shoes also tend to go on sale. We try to keep up with these sales to offer you shoes we can solidly recommend the performance of, at outstanding \u2014 but often temporary \u2014 prices. The <strong>New Balance FuelCell Propel v5<\/strong> is one such example, which can currently be found for slightly over half of its retail value.<\/p>\n<p>What shoe holds the best for you depends on where you run, how far you run, your specific stride, your anatomy, and your unique running goals.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"cushioning\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Cushioning<\/h3>\n<p>When we&#8217;re assessing this category, we&#8217;re most interested in how a shoe feels underfoot while running. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div style=\"width:100%; max-width:700px; margin:5px 0;\">\n<div style=\"width:100%;\">        <span class=\"h3\" style=\"float:left;\">New Balance Fresh Foam X More V5<\/span>        <span class=\"h3\" style=\"float:right;\">Asics Novablast 5<\/span>            <\/div>\n<div class=\"image-compare\">      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/26\/434153_22438_L2.jpg\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"New Balance Fresh Foam X More V5 photo comparison\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/31\/434608_5264_L2.jpg\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"Asics Novablast 5 photo comparison\"\/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>A closer look at our favorite max-cushion shoe (the More v5) compared to our favorite daily trainer (the Novablast). Click the button below to choose any two shoes in our lineup to compare their cushioning directly to one another.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>We asked questions like: Do our feet feel protected from the road? How well does the cushioning insulate our legs over longer efforts? Are transitions through our feet during landing smooth or choppy? Do we feel as though we&#8217;re \u201c<em>bottoming out<\/em>\u201d the cushioning? How much compression does the foam have? How much resilience (energy return) does the foam have? How stiff is the shoe?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\"\/><\/p>\n<h4>Cushioning: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Daily trainers are the workhorses of the running shoe world. They&#8217;re designed to get you through the majority of your mileage feeling comfortable, but should still be able to handle most workouts you&#8217;ll throw at them. As with all running shoes, daily trainers sit in different places on the comfort vs. performance spectrum. Some we classify as speed trainers, meaning they&#8217;re best suited to faster running. Others are more comfort-oriented, providing plush cushioning but less versatility. <\/p>\n<p>One of our favorite all-around shoes, the <strong>Asics Novablast 5<\/strong>, straddles the line between daily trainer and max-cushioning. By the numbers, it probably should sit in the max-cushioning category, with 41 mm of foam at the heel. However, it doesn&#8217;t run like a max-cushioned shoe and is remarkably versatile. So, we think it&#8217;s best considered as a daily trainer. It&#8217;s extremely well cushioned, scoring among the highest in the daily trainer category. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Nike Vomero 18<\/strong> is in a similar position, offering a higher stack height with excellent all-around comfort. For runners who value cushioning above all else, this is a great daily trainer. Another Nike trainer that sits on the edge of daily trainer and max-cushioning, the <strong>Zoom Fly 6<\/strong>, recorded a very high score thanks to a 41 mm stack height of ZoomX foam. Landings in this shoe are soft and bouncy, and have a great level of responsiveness. The Zoom Fly would make a great marathon training shoe.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/adidas-adizero-evo-sl\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/a> has a slightly firmer feel underfoot, but also becomes more bouncy at higher speeds. While the <strong>Rebel&#8217;s<\/strong> 30 mm of stack height feels softer and scores higher, we tend to prefer the firmer and more bouncy ride of the Evo at a wider range of paces. It feels better across the pace spectrum than the Rebel does. The Evo also tends to feel better towards the end of a long run, likely due to the 39 mm of stack height and more resilient foam. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Saucony Endorphin Speed 4<\/strong> is a high-performing speed trainer. It&#8217;s better for uptempo running than other daily trainers, but still has plenty of cushioning for the longest runs. It has a firmer underfoot feel and is stiffer, thanks to its nylon plate. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Puma Velocity Nitro 3<\/strong> and <strong>Adidas Adizero SL2<\/strong> are both great compromises that each provides plush cushioning with the ability to hit faster paces. Both shoes ended up with a high rank in our testing thanks to their balanced performances and excellent price points. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/29\/35\/414984_16612_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 provides a plush landing pad with its NITRO foam in the midsole.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/29\/35\/414984_16612_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/29\/35\/414984_16612_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/29\/35\/414984_16612_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - the puma velocity nitro 3 provides a plush landing pad with its...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 provides a plush landing pad with its NITRO foam in the midsole.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Cushioning: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Max-cushioned trainers tend to be best for eating up long mileage at easy paces. However, some of our favorite all-around trainers fall into this category and utilize some technology from top-tier race shoes to provide versatile, high-performing comfort. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5<\/strong> is an exceptionally comfortable and decently affordable shoe. The big slab of smooth cushioning is excellent for recovery days, but struggles to run faster. <\/p>\n<p>If you want more pace, the <strong>Mizuno Neo Vista<\/strong> has a huge stack of foam and a smooth rocker geometry to create one of the most versatile and comfortable rides in our test. We love this shoe as a daily option, and while it feels best at easy paces, you can also use it for threshold workouts. <\/p>\n<p>Close behind is the <strong>Asics Superblast 2<\/strong>, which is slightly less cushioned but more oriented towards faster paces. It can eat up the easy miles, but this is also a shoe that could work as a marathon racer for some runners. <\/p>\n<p>When it comes to easy running, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0D42F89RD?tag=outdoocom-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Asics Gel-Nimbus 27<\/a> takes a similar approach. A huge chunk of soft foam makes them comfortable and smooth for your recovery runs. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/79\/429473_10301_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;Just look at all that highly-compressible and resilient foam. The Neo Vista is one of the most comfortable and versatile daily trainers in the lineup as a result.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/79\/429473_10301_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/79\/429473_10301_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/79\/429473_10301_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - just look at all that highly-compressible and resilient foam. the...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>Just look at all that highly-compressible and resilient foam. The Neo Vista is one of the most comfortable and versatile daily trainers in the lineup as a result.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Cushioning: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>The super shoes in our lineup have all been designed to get you through a marathon comfortably. That means they all have high levels of cushioning underfoot, and almost all of them are bouncy and soft. They all fall right under the World Athletics limit for race shoes of 40 mm stack height. They utilize highly resilient PEBA-based or similar supercritical foams to provide a performance and comfort benefit. The <strong>Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/strong> stands out for its cushioning that feels both bottomless and responsive. <\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The Metaspeed Sky Paris has excellent, bottomless comfort.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"upper-comfort\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Upper Comfort<\/h3>\n<p>When assessing upper comfort, we consider things like upper materials and stiffness, breathability, fit, and lockdown. We note any particular hotspots or rubbing that the shoe causes and test to verify if it is a shoe issue or a product of our socks and lacing. High on our list of priorities is a snug fit that keeps our foot stable and provides confidence through corners and uneven terrain. We want an upper that offers good support and locks down our heel without our toes feeling cramped. The tongue has to wrap our midfoot precisely, and the laces have to hold us snugly without causing pressure or hotspots. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\"\/><\/p>\n<h4>Upper Comfort: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Knit-uppers tend to be the most comfortable, thanks to their soft material and slightly stretchy fit. They tend to struggle with breathability, though. Two of our favorites in this category are the <strong>Novablast 5<\/strong> and the <strong>Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/strong>. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Adrenaline GTS 23<\/strong> also feels snug with excellent lockdown and a gusseted tongue that stays put. When it comes to plush comfort, the <strong>Vomero 18<\/strong> also stands out thanks to its soft materials that feel extremely comfortable when clicking off miles. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442884_3441_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The Adizero Evo SL upper is lightweight and breathable, and locks down well for long runs.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442884_3441_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442884_3441_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442884_3441_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"553\" alt=\"running shoes men - the adizero evo sl upper is lightweight and breathable, and locks...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 553;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The Adizero Evo SL upper is lightweight and breathable, and locks down well for long runs.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Upper Comfort: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Most max-cushioned shoes are geared towards comfort, so the upper tends to feel good. One of our favorite uppers in the entire lineup is in this category \u2014 the <strong>Mizuno Neo Vista<\/strong>. It utilizes a sock-like knit upper that wraps your foot comfortably and breathes well. The Neo Vista stands out for its execution, and it takes home the highest score for an upper in the lineup. <\/p>\n<figure><figcaption style=\"width:100%;\">\n<p>The sock-like upper of the Mizuno Neo Vista is exceptionally comfortable and has good breathability.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Upper Comfort: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>All the shoes in this category have a lightweight upper, designed to save weight while still providing lockdown. The engineered mesh of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0F71LY2RM?tag=outdoocom-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Nike Vaporfly 4<\/a> is exceptionally breathable and can be cinched down for great foot security. The <strong>Asics Metaspeed Sky<\/strong> heel collar has just enough cushioning to prevent hot spots, while the rest of the upper is slightly stiffer (which adds stability).<\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442952_187_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The lightweight Vaporfly is exceptionally breathable.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442952_187_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442952_187_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/14\/442952_187_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - the lightweight vaporfly is exceptionally breathable.\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The lightweight Vaporfly is exceptionally breathable.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"stability\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Stability<\/h3>\n<p>Here, we&#8217;re interested in how stable a shoe feels, both in terms of support during footstrike and laterally on broken terrain. Stability-specific shoes are tricky \u2014 we are glad to see an industry shift towards stability shoes that use less medial posting and are more inherently stable neutral trainers. That&#8217;s more in keeping with most current peer-reviewed evidence. <\/p>\n<p>You might need support depending on your natural mechanics, but remember that shoes are not a solution to mechanical issues. You should work with a running-focused physical therapist or sports medicine doctor to resolve those mechanical issues rather than self-diagnose your running mechanics and attempt to address them with a shoe. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\"\/><\/p>\n<h4>Stability: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>We love the <strong>Saucony Tempus 2<\/strong> for its non-invasive and enjoyable approach to stability. It is a versatile shoe that we think many runners will get along with. It utilizes an innovative frame of different foam materials to provide a lightweight and comfortable midsole with lots of support. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24<\/strong> is a decent all-arounder that utilizes a more old-school approach to stability. It uses sidewalls, medial posting, and crash pads to direct your natural movement.  <\/p>\n<p>Among daily trainers, shoes that provide a strong lockdown and a wide, low base are often the most stable. The <strong>Asics Novablast 5<\/strong> is a standout in this area. Similarly, the <strong>Puma Velocity Nitro<\/strong> and <strong>Deviate Nitro<\/strong> provide a strong lockdown and a stable base that performs well on uneven surfaces and hard impacts. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/59\/437459_28047_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The Tempus 2 uses innovative techniques to provide fun stability.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/59\/437459_28047_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/59\/437459_28047_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/59\/437459_28047_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"466\" alt=\"running shoes men - the tempus 2 uses innovative techniques to provide fun stability.\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 466;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The Tempus 2 uses innovative techniques to provide fun stability.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Stability: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>As a rule of thumb, most max-cushioned shoes aren&#8217;t a great stability option. However, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-gel-kayano-31\">Asics Gel-Kayano 31<\/a> provides the best support and stability in the test. It utilizes a wide platform to provide inherent stability and uses geometry rather than uncomfortable medial posting to keep your foot moving forward. It&#8217;s also well cushioned, although our testers who land heel-midfoot found the cushioning to be better than those who land mid-forefoot. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Superblast 2<\/strong> comes up again in this metric. Sidewalls and a wide platform make this a stable max-cushioned shoe, which is great for runners who want a faster option that has some support. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/28\/65\/408062_10839_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The wide base of the Kayano provides for great inherent stability without sacrificing comfort.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/28\/65\/408062_10839_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/28\/65\/408062_10839_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/28\/65\/408062_10839_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - the wide base of the kayano provides for great inherent stability...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The wide base of the Kayano provides for great inherent stability without sacrificing comfort.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Stability: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>Most racing shoes are pretty unstable. In this test, the <strong>Asics Metaspeed Sky<\/strong> isn&#8217;t exactly stable, but has a wide base that offers more room for your foot to plant. The <strong>Nike Vaporfly<\/strong> offers almost no lateral stability, and is gears almost entirely toward forward motion.<\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429372_21369_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The Metaspeed Sky has a decently wide landing platform - for a racing shoe - and stiffened sidewalls that add somewhat to this shoe's stability.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429372_21369_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429372_21369_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429372_21369_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"488\" alt=\"running shoes men - the metaspeed sky has a decently wide landing platform - for a...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 488;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The Metaspeed Sky has a decently wide landing platform &#8211; for a racing shoe &#8211; and stiffened sidewalls that add somewhat to this shoe&#8217;s stability.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"weight\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Weight<\/h3>\n<p>Weight has been <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7538857\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">proven<\/a> to be a significant factor in running economy and performance. Weight often differs from the manufacturer listings, and we weigh each size 10.5 per shoe in-house to compare each pair more accurately. There is often a tradeoff with lightweight designs when it comes to overall stability and predicted durability. Many lightweight designs use thinner and lighter upper materials or reduce or eliminate the rubber tread on the outsole. More traditionally designed shoes with padded uppers and durable outsoles are among the heavier designs we tested.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\"\/><\/p>\n<h4>Weight: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>When it comes to daily trainers, the <strong>Kinvara 15<\/strong> takes home top marks. It&#8217;s an exceptionally light shoe, which makes it a joy to run fast in. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429524_16781_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;There's not much to the Kinvara, which makes it light (and reasonably fast).&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429524_16781_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429524_16781_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429524_16781_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - there's not much to the kinvara, which makes it light (and...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>There&#8217;s not much to the Kinvara, which makes it light (and reasonably fast).<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Weight: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>High stack height often means heavy weight. The <strong>More v5<\/strong> highlights that, taking home some of the lowest scores in this category. However, it doesn&#8217;t have to be that way. The <strong>Superblast 2<\/strong> weighs about as much as the average daily trainer, just with far more foam underfoot. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426243_14501_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;Though thickly cushioned, the Superblast doesn't weigh as much as its max-cushioning contemporaries.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426243_14501_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426243_14501_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426243_14501_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"466\" alt=\"running shoes men - though thickly cushioned, the superblast doesn't weigh as much as...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 466;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>Though thickly cushioned, the Superblast doesn&#8217;t weigh as much as its max-cushioning contemporaries.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Weight: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>The lightest shoe we&#8217;ve tested is the <strong>Nike Vaporfly 4<\/strong>, which is absurdly light and practically disappears on our feet. Weighing less than half an ounce more, the <strong>Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/strong> is also insanely light, adding to its responsive feeling and overall race-readiness. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429366_30193_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;It's hard to explain just how light the Metaspeed Sky Paris is.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429366_30193_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429366_30193_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/78\/429366_30193_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - it's hard to explain just how light the metaspeed sky paris is.\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>It&#8217;s hard to explain just how light the Metaspeed Sky Paris is.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"traction\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Traction<\/h3>\n<p>No one likes sliding around corners or slipping on wet asphalt. We assess each shoe across a range of Montana weather and surfaces, reporting our findings. Honestly, most road shoes will handle typical road-running conditions just fine. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div style=\"width:100%; max-width:700px; margin:5px 0;\">\n<div style=\"width:100%;\">        <span class=\"h3\" style=\"float:left;\">Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/span>        <span class=\"h3\" style=\"float:right;\">New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4<\/span>            <\/div>\n<div class=\"image-compare\">      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/92\/440680_23296_L2.jpg\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"Adidas Adizero Evo SL photo comparison\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/29\/94\/420918_358_L2.jpg\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 photo comparison\"\/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>Comparing the lug-less but grippy tread of the Evo SL to the intense tread pattern of the Rebel v4. Click the button below to compare the tread of any two shoes in our current lineup.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>However, wet performance can be an issue for some shoes and some rubber compounds. Similarly, the presence and shape of lugs and siping in an outsole significantly alter how confidence-inspiring a shoe is while running fast on loose surfaces. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\"\/><\/p>\n<h4>Traction: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>This one is simple. If you want reliable traction in a range of conditions, regardless of terrain, just get the <strong>Puma Velocity Nitro 3<\/strong> and call it a day. The PumaGrip outsole is the best in our testing, without a doubt. When we&#8217;re running through the winter in Montana, it&#8217;s the shoe we grab on the nastiest of days. <\/p>\n<p>Our second favorite outsole compound is the Continental rubber found on some Adidas shoes, like the <strong>Evo SL<\/strong>, which can really grab well for a shoe with no lugs. New Balance offerings, like the <strong>Propel v5<\/strong>, utilize a diamond-shaped outsole tread that we&#8217;ve found bites well on wet roads. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/23\/443810_30137_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The PumaGrip outsole on the Velocity Nitro 3 provides seriously excellent traction.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/23\/443810_30137_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/23\/443810_30137_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/23\/443810_30137_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - the pumagrip outsole on the velocity nitro 3 provides seriously...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The PumaGrip outsole on the Velocity Nitro 3 provides seriously excellent traction.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Traction: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Most of the max-cushioned shoes in our lineup have average traction levels. The <strong>Nike Vomero 18<\/strong> stands out as having above average grip. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/19\/443392_25092_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The rubber outsole of the Nike Vomero helps it grip better on wet pavement.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/19\/443392_25092_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/19\/443392_25092_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/32\/19\/443392_25092_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"466\" alt=\"running shoes men - the rubber outsole of the nike vomero helps it grip better on wet...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 466;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The rubber outsole of the Nike Vomero helps it grip better on wet pavement.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Traction: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>Most race shoes are designed to have solid traction on flat, ideal racing conditions. They tend to cut weight by limiting lugs and traction patterns. Both the <strong>Metaspeed Sky<\/strong> and <strong>Vaporfly<\/strong> \u2014 as well as most other racing shoes we&#8217;ve tested \u2014 fit this trend. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426260_30619_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The tread of a racing shoe like the Metaspeed (shown here) tends to be minimal and may not be enough for wet conditions or gravely corners.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426260_30619_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426260_30619_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/47\/426260_30619_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - the tread of a racing shoe like the metaspeed (shown here) tends to...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The tread of a racing shoe like the Metaspeed (shown here) tends to be minimal and may not be enough for wet conditions or gravely corners.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"responsiveness\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Responsiveness<\/h3>\n<p>In this category, we&#8217;re most interested in how a shoe handles different paces. We assess each shoe across a few rough pace categories, including easy running, moderate \/ marathon pace, threshold paces (between marathon and 10K), and fast (5K or faster).<\/p>\n<div class=\"blogTip\">\n<div class=\"blogTipText\"><strong>Fast Features<\/strong><br \/>\nThere are a lot of factors that go into how fast or responsive a shoe feels. <strong>Weight<\/strong> is a significant factor, and <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37858294\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>foam resilience<\/strong><\/a> is another. <strong>Composite stiffeners<\/strong> (like carbon plates) can benefit some runners, but depend on the type and location of the plate, as well as the specific stride of the runner \u2014 the benefits are far from universal. <strong>Rocker geometry<\/strong>, or the curve on the bottom of the shoe, changes how a runner rolls through their stride, and can make a shoe feel responsive.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Components of Energy Return<\/p>\n<div style=\"width: 100%; position: relative;\">\n<table style=\"padding:8px; border:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;min-width:450px;\" class=\"table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border: #E0E0E0 1px solid; border-bottom: 2px solid #333; border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F0F0F0;vertical-align:bottom;width:20%;\">\u00a0<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border: #E0E0E0 1px solid; border-bottom: 2px solid #333; border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F0F0F0;vertical-align:bottom;width:20%;\">Intended Use<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border: #E0E0E0 1px solid; border-bottom: 2px solid #333; border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F0F0F0;vertical-align:bottom;width:20%;\">Energy Return<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border: #E0E0E0 1px solid; border-bottom: 2px solid #333; border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F0F0F0;vertical-align:bottom;width:20%;\">Midsole<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border: #E0E0E0 1px solid; border-bottom: 2px solid #333; border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F0F0F0;vertical-align:bottom;width:20%;\">Plate<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;border-top:#333 2px solid;\"><strong>Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">FF Turbo Plus<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Nike Vaporfly 4<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">ZoomX<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Lightstrike Pro<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">EnergyRods 2.0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Nike Alphafly 3<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">ZoomX<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Saucony Endorphin Pro 4<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN PB\/PWRRUN HG<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Racing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">FuelCell<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Saucony Endorphin Speed 4<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN PB<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Nylon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Adidas Adizero Evo SL<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Lightstrike Pro<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Asics Superblast 2<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Max-Cushion<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">FF Turbo Plus, FF Blast Plus<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Nike Zoom Fly 6<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">ZoomX<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Mizuno Neo Vista<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Max-Cushion<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Enerzy NXT<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Full-length plastic<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Adidas Adizero SL2<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Lightstrike Pro, Lightstrike<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Puma Deviate Nitro 3<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">NITROFOAM<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Carbon<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Saucony Tempus 2<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Stability<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">PWRRUN\/PWRRUN PB<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Puma Velocity Nitro 3<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Profoam<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Asics Novablast 5<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\">FF Blast Max<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#F6F6F6;vertical-align:top;\"><span style=\"font-size:18px; color:#dd9b27;\">\u2716<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\"><strong>Brooks Hyperion Max 2<\/strong><\/th>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Daily Trainer<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">\t<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">DNA Flash v2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px; border-bottom:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-left:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-right:#E0E0E0 1px solid;border-collapse:collapse;background-color:#FFF;vertical-align:top;\">Full-length plastic<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Responsiveness: Daily Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>A good daily trainer should be able to comfortably handle moderate to threshold paces. Daily trainers that err on the side of speed training should thrive at those efforts. No shoe does versatile responsiveness better than the <strong>Evo SL<\/strong>. It can smash workouts or easy mileage, and remain very comfortable for both. It does feel a little more energetic at faster paces, and it also encourages you to squeeze the pace when you&#8217;re going easy. But it&#8217;s easy enough to control, and sets a new standard for pace versatility. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Saucony Endorphin Speed<\/strong> is another prime example of excellent responsiveness in a daily trainer. It utilizes a nylon plate, rocker geometry, and excellent PWRRUN PB foam to provide an energetic, fast-rolling ride. We found it thrives at threshold pace and can handle fast intervals as well. Compared to the <strong>Evo<\/strong>, it has a little more speed at the top-end, and seems to do a little better on extended workouts. However, it&#8217;s far less comfortable for long or easy efforts. <\/p>\n<p>The <strong>Adidas Adizero SL2<\/strong> has a premium foam that gives a responsive and resilient ride. It&#8217;s great for moderate efforts and longer threshold workouts, though it doesn&#8217;t have quite the snap and stiffness of some plated options. If you can accommodate a narrower fit, we highly recommend these daily trainers. <\/p>\n<p>Many daily trainers still have great energy return, making them excellent options for speed training or even some prople&#8217;s race day pick.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Responsiveness: Max-Cushioned Trainers<\/h4>\n<p>Most max-cushioned shoes simply aren&#8217;t responsive. However, the <strong>Asics Superblast 2<\/strong> and <strong>Mizuno Neo Vista<\/strong> buck that trend. Both utilize tech from racing shoes (high-end foam or plates) to help provide a more versatile ride. These \u201c<em>super trainers<\/em>\u201d are the ultimate do-it-all shoes for serious runners. Both are some of our favorite shoes as a result, but they come at high costs that make them less attractive for most runners. <\/p>\n<p>When it comes to more typical max-cushioned shoes, the <strong>New Balance Fresh Foam More v5<\/strong> is our preference for responsiveness. It&#8217;s not fast, but the rocker geometry helps keep things rolling a bit more than in other options. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429482_6029_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;We've called the New Balance Fresh Foam More a pillow that rolls well thanks to its rockered geometry.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Nathaniel Bailey&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429482_6029_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429482_6029_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/30\/80\/429482_6029_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"467\" alt=\"running shoes men - we've called the new balance fresh foam more a pillow that rolls...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 467;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>We&#8217;ve called the New Balance Fresh Foam More a pillow that rolls well thanks to its rockered geometry.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Nathaniel Bailey<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><\/p>\n<h4>Responsiveness: Race Shoes<\/h4>\n<p>In this category, responsiveness is what matters most. The <strong>Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/strong> takes top marks. It&#8217;s the fastest shoe we&#8217;ve worn, and although the soft foam isn&#8217;t ideal for all-out speed at a faster-than-mile pace, we think it makes a solid road mile shoe. The foam is extremely resilient, and the rocker feels natural. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"figure-chart\">\n<div aria-description=\"A tabular representation of the data in the chart.\" style=\"position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: auto; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;\">\n<p><strong>Speed Performance for Varying Distances and Effort Levels<\/strong><\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Product<\/th>\n<th>Easy (Recovery)<\/th>\n<th>Moderate (Marathon)<\/th>\n<th>Threshold (10K)<\/th>\n<th>Fast (5K+)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris<\/th>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4.9<\/td>\n<td>4.6<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4<\/th>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Nike Vaporfly 4<\/th>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4.8<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Saucony Endorphin Pro 4<\/th>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Nike Alphafly 3<\/th>\n<td>3<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4.5<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>Hoka Cielo X1 2<\/th>\n<td>3<\/td>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th>New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4<\/th>\n<td>5<\/td>\n<td>3.5<\/td>\n<td>3<\/td>\n<td>2.8<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div><figcaption style=\"margin: 0 0 30px 0;\">\n<p>The Metaspeed Sky Paris can rip across a range of distances \u2014 though its competitors aren&#8217;t far behind.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>For short and fast races, we love the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0F71LY2RM?tag=outdoocom-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Nike Vaporfly 4<\/a>, which utilizes a lower stack height to provide a nimble and quick feel. <\/p>\n<figure>\n<div class=\"photonormal\" style=\"width:100%;\">\n<div><a data-fancybox=\"gallery\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/92\/440739_11929_XXXL.jpg\" data-caption=\"&lt;div&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-caption'&gt;The latest version of the Vaporfly is better suited to sub-marathon distances. Our testers love it for hard track sessions.&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;div class='fb-photo-credit'&gt;Credit: Natalie Kafader&lt;\/div&gt;&lt;\/div&gt;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/92\/440739_11929_L2.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/92\/440739_11929_M2.jpg 415w, https:\/\/d1nymbkeomeoqg.cloudfront.net\/photos\/31\/92\/440739_11929_L2.jpg 830w\" data-sizes=\"100vw\" width=\"830\" height=\"466\" alt=\"running shoes men - the latest version of the vaporfly is better suited to sub-marathon...\" class=\"lazyload photo-center\" style=\"max-width:100%; width:auto; height:auto; max-height:100%; aspect-ratio: 830 \/ 466;\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<p>The latest version of the Vaporfly is better suited to sub-marathon distances. Our testers love it for hard track sessions.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Natalie Kafader<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"other-notable-mens-road-running-shoes\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>Other Notable Men&#8217;s Road Running Shoes<\/h2>\n<p>With such a flooded market, there are dozens of pairs of current and previous-version shoes that we&#8217;ve tested and are still available for purchase. Here&#8217;s a list of a few we&#8217;ve tested that didn&#8217;t make our cut of the top road running shoes today:<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"daily-trainers-worth-considering\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Daily Trainers Worth Considering<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/adidas-adizero-boston-12\">Adidas Adizero Boston 12<\/a> \u2014 An affordable, well-cushioned, and responsive shoe that feels smooth and lightweight. Swapping a carbon plate for Energyrods 2.0 makes this model versatile without totally demolishing its comfort. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0D42F89RD?tag=outdoocom-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Asics Gel-Nimbus 27<\/a> \u2014 With stability at heart, it still has more to offer, with a highly cushioned midsole, an energetic ride, and a very comfortable upper; even if it is a bit heavy and clunky at speed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/asics-superblast-2\">Asics Superblast 2<\/a> \u2014 A max-cushioned model that doesn&#8217;t soak up all your energy into the bouncy sole, this shoe is an exceptionally high-performing, comfortable model \u2014 with a matching high price tag.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/brooks-ghost-16\">Brooks Ghost 16<\/a> \u2014 This line has a cult following, for its traditional feeling of times before tech took over the industry. With a high heel-toe drop and a comfortable and stable ride, this shoe is a solid choice for heel strikers. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/brooks-glycerin-22\">Brooks Glycerin 22<\/a> \u2014 This stability-focused shoe is a reliable standby with comfortable cushioning that&#8217;s positioned well for heel strikers enjoying runs at slow paces, and seeking additional support and lateral stability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=10248&amp;pw=46631&amp;ctc=914238&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F241803%2Fbrooks-glycerin-max-road-running-shoes-mens\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Brooks Glycerin Max<\/a> \u2014 Towering underfoot cushion provides a soft landing without feeling mushy, while good balance and a rolling rocker keep things rolling along well enough to be a solid contender as a marathon shoe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/classic.avantlink.com\/click.php?p=64269&amp;pw=46631&amp;pt=3&amp;pri=897368&amp;tt=df&amp;ctc=914241\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Hoka Bondi 9<\/a> \u2014 Thick but firm cushioning and a smooth ride help this chunky shoe cross over into slower-paced runs, though we like it most for long walks and lengthy days on our feet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/hoka-clifton-9\">Hoka Clifton 9<\/a> \u2014 Great cushion and a stable, neutral ride make this shoe easy to like. Its thick stack still maintains a fairly low weight, and we love this shoe most for exploring a new city and spending long days on our feet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/mizuno-neo-vista\">Mizuno Neo Vista<\/a> \u2014 This super trainer doesn&#8217;t skimp on the cushioning, with one of the highest stack heights around. It&#8217;s bouncy and comfortable and a blast to run in, remaining a core part of our rotation long after testing was complete.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/new-balance-fuelcell-rebel-v4\">New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4<\/a> \u2014 This plateless shoe still manages to have above-average energy return on top of great underfoot cushioning, feeling as responsive as a plated model but far more comfortable. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/nike-pegasus-41\">Nike Pegasus 41<\/a> \u2014 One of the most popular shoes on the market, the Pegasus clusters its cushioning in the heel, helping this shoe to be a solid choice for folks running slower paces with heels hitting the ground first.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/on-cloudsurfer-2\">On Cloudsurfer 2<\/a> \u2014 This version is far more stable than its predecessor, with a wider platform and a firmer foundation. It&#8217;s not the most cushioned running option, but can make the crossover from walking or going to the gym in a pinch. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a id=\"race-day-competition\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Race Day Competition<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-4\">Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4<\/a> \u2014 A very propulsive racer with a soft landing, this lightweight shoe falls short when it comes to the stability many runners need.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hoka.com\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Hoka Cielo X1 2.0<\/a> \u2014 Bouncy and snappy and all the things we want in a race shoe, but without the outside support to prevent over-pronation that can happen for certain runners at high speeds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/nike-alphafly-3\">Nike Alphafly 3<\/a> \u2014 This racer has snappy energy return, low weight, and comfortable, resilient foam. However, it also has the steepest learning curve of any racing shoe and feels particularly unstable cornering at high speeds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-endorphin-pro-4\">Saucony Endorphin Pro 4<\/a> \u2014 A solid intro into supershoes, this pair is snappy, smooth, and fairly stable. Comparatively, it&#8217;s not as explosive as other racers, is a bit heavier than we&#8217;d like, and runs narrow through the forefoot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a id=\"others-weve-tested\"\/><\/p>\n<h3>Others We&#8217;ve Tested<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/altra-torin-8\">Altra Torin 8<\/a> \u2014 Diehard zero-drop fans who love Altra&#8217;s wide toebox design may still enjoy this shoe. But it has a thin sole that lacks the protection or energy return that most runners are looking for.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/hoka-skyward-x\">Hoka Skyward X<\/a> \u2014 This carbon-plated max-cushion shoe has one of the most comfortable landing platforms, but is shockingly heavy. It&#8217;s also extremely expensive, and there are nearly as comfortable shoes you can buy for much less.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/classic.avantlink.com\/click.php?p=64249&amp;pw=46631&amp;pt=3&amp;pri=4002751&amp;tt=df&amp;ctc=914277\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Nike Pegasus Plus<\/a> \u2014 A popular shoe, but with a narrow fit and limited lateral stability. It has a soft landing and a high stack, making it comfortable and fun, but costs more than similar performers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/reviews\/shoes-and-boots\/running-shoes-men\/saucony-kinvara-15\">Saucony Kinvara 15<\/a> \u2014 Our women&#8217;s team recommends this shoe wholeheartedly, while our men&#8217;s team cautions that the thin sole and limited cushioning of this minimalist-adjacent pair aren&#8217;t the most comfortable combo.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/p>\n<figure><figcaption class=\"content_table_xwide\">\n<p>We tested and compared all the top contenders on the market to help you make the best choice possible for your feet and running style.<\/p>\n<p>Credit: Abriah Wofford<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"conclusion\"\/><\/p>\n<h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>\nFinding the perfect running shoe isn&#8217;t easy (there&#8217;s a reason so many runners have a rotation), but after spending hundreds of hours and logging dozens of miles in every pair of shoes in our lineup, we hope we can at least make it easier for you. We hope that this review will help you find the right shoe for your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/fitness\">fitness needs<\/a> and budget, and one that will provide you with an awesome running experience.\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorgearlab.com\/topics\/shoes-and-boots\/best-running-shoes-men\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Our Picks of Men&#8217;s Running Shoes Best Overall Asics Novablast 5 Cushioning 8.7 Upper Comfort 8.2 Stability 6.9 Weight 6.0 Traction 5.3 PROS Soft and bouncy foam Pace versatility Smooth ride Premium comfort The Asics Novablast 5 is our go-to all-around running shoe. For daily mileage, it&#8217;s comfortable, plush, and enjoyable. For faster running, the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":417,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[24],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-416","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-footwear-socks"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/416","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=416"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/416\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/417"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=416"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=416"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redbulltravel.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=416"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}