Treadmill? Hyrox? SWEAT 1000? CrossFit? Marathon? Trail? UTCT? Whatever you’re training for, we’ve got you covered. Running has evolved, and now it’s as varied as your streaming options. Whether you’re chasing speed, endurance, or trail conquering, having the right pair of running shoes for every type of run is essential for injury prevention, performance improvement, and overall comfort. From lightweight and speedy to supportive and durable, these top running shoes are our go-to picks for hitting your personal best.
READ MORE: Hate Running? These Tips Could Change Your Mind
Why Do Different Runs Need Different Running Shoes?
Lightweight shoes, also known as racing flats, are designed for speed, offering minimal cushioning to enhance efficiency during high-intensity workouts or races. However, they might not provide enough shock absorption for daily training or longer distances. On the other hand, trail running shoes are equipped with sturdy outsoles to improve traction, ensuring you can safely navigate rugged, uneven terrain. For men, choosing the right running shoe is crucial, as your feet need to withstand various stresses based on the type of run.
Best Running Shoes for Cross-Training, Hyrox & More
Salomon Aero Glide 3
A moulded OrthoLite sock liner helps keep your feet secure through lateral movements, while a wider forefoot base reinforces stability. For runs, burpees and plyo, the rocker shape propels you forward in a lightweight package.
PUMA x HYROX Deviate NITRO 3
The springy Deviate NITRO 3 has a functional training element, making it great for most training. Built specifically for HYROX athletes, the rocking toe-off and PWR tape provide speed with support in high-stress movements.
Hi-Tec Helios II
A great blend of stability and cushioning, this shoe is ideal for low to mid-mileage runs. Lightweight Infinity foam delivers rebound, while an OrthoLite Impressions Innersole moulds to your foot for a custom fit.
Saucony Guide 18
A smooth, cushioned ride with oomph, this shoe is good for stable movement without compromising on speed. A sharp rocker pushes you forward, and a breathable upper stretches for those sweaty slogs.
READ MORE: The Results Are In: Running Has Proven To Significantly Improve One’s Mood
On Cloud 5
Engineered for cross-training, this lower-drop runner features a Speedboard, Zero-Gravity foam and CloudTec, all for extra cushioning on the landing. A moulded heel keeps your foot steady – great for unexpected workouts.
Nike Pegasus Premium
A soft, responsive feeling underfoot, this shoe still delivers stability for versatile training while being durable and cushioned. High-abrasion rubber on the sole adds traction; ZoomX midsole tech adds a springy feeling.
Best Running Shoes for Trail Running
ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 13
This safety-conscious shoe offers protection in every aspect: ASICSGRIP outsole keeps things grippy, an inner rock protection plate shields your forefoot; the upper keeps rain and dirt out. Plus, it loves a long trek.
Hi-Tec Geo-Tempo Trail
Durable, light and utilitarian. A high-performance ripstop upper protects from rogue rocks, a stable footbed cradles your foot while regulating it’s temp and the supportive sole provides comfort.
READ MORE: Here’s Exactly What You Should Do When Running Gets Boring
HOKA Speedgoat 6
Like those mountain goats, this shoe has traction, stability and a longer ride, all in one package. If you prefer a firmer shoe with less weight, this is it. Plus, a roomier forefoot provides comfort.
adidas Terrex Agravic 3
Tackling the hills is rough work, and comfort is paramount. The Agravic 3 comes with breathable fabric that also deflects rain; the stacked height is crammed with Lightstrike 2.0 cushioning and a TPU plate for stability.
Salomon Ultra Glide 3
Purple and plush, this smooth rider is built for long-distance comfort. All Terrain Contragip outsole with 4mm lugs commands uneven ground. Extra cushioning, supported intelligently spaced lugs disperse pressure, maintain that pillowy feeling.
Brooks Caldera 8
Breathable and *stacked*, this shoe goes the distance. Nitrogen-infused cushioning offers that plush feeling; cleverly raised sidewalls keep your foot from rolling. Plus, the bright primary colours make us feel like kids in the playground again.
Best Running Shoes for Road Marathons
Brooks Glycerin 22
Great for those looking for a little stability, these offer Brooks’ nitrogen-infused cushioning – with a high-rise sole and large cells in the sole to create plush landings. It’s also supportive and breathy. Perfect for daily training.
Under Armour Infinite Elite 2
Springy yet stable, these shoes give off bounce with every strike thanks to HOVR tech. It’s also comfy from run one: a stretchy upper moves with your foot to contain when needed without over-restriction.
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27
This neutral runner makes for a trustworthy training and distance shoe. It’s built for comfort at every point: proprietary PureGEL under the heel absorbs shock; the midfoot features extra cushioning so you always land softly.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
A marathon podium staple, the fourth iteration in the Adizero Adios Pro series features key updates: a repositioned forefoot rocker, placed right where toe-off happens and a new mesh upper that locks in your foot.
READ MORE: Improve Your Running By Tightening Your Core In These Three Steps
HOKA Bondi 9
This hard-working shoe features a new foam midsole for extra-soft but resilient rides. The increased stack height makes way for more cushioning and superior shock absorption. The sole, divided into pods, adds flexibility on the take-off.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3
This one transitions from training to race day well. The chunky sole is not as cushy as you’d think: a curved plate within the FuelCell midsole foam adds bounce, which in turn makes things feel lighter.
Best Running Shoes for Speedwork
adidas Supernova Rise 2
Whether you’re a beginner runner or serious plodder, this all-rounder is an everyday go-to. Balanced cushioning paired with Support Rods to boost push-off help make this a good companion for fartleks and tempo runs.
On Cloudsurfer Next
A cult favourite, the Cloudsurfer Next features the signature cloud-like sole but still feels firm and stable for distance runs. A pronounced rocker draws your foot forward, helping create speed, along with the Helion superfoam.
READ MORE: Can Running Actually Help You Lose Weight?
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
Made for speed, this bright racer prioritises softness, propulsion and responsiveness. It’s very light, weighing just over 150g. Still, it works hard over long distances too, given the softness and wider, higher midsole.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
A bouncy shoe that caters broadly for different foot types: higher walls in the midsole and a wider forefoot create stability; it’s very soft, adding speed, and the stack height ticks the box for long distances.
Nike Vaporfly 3
The arrow-like shape screams “fast” – but that’s not all. The carbon fibre plate extends the length of the shoe, pushing you off from heel to toe. The bulging heel reduces weight, creating a stable, speedier ride.
PUMA Deviate NITRO™ Elite 3
Featuring PUMA’s elite version of the nitrogen-infused foam, this all-business trainer with a stiffer carbon PWR Plate boosts take-off. At a full 40mm, this stacked heel is speed paired with endurance for snappy top-seeders.
How Do I Find Out More About Running?
Whether you’re new to running, chasing a PB, or gearing up for a marathon, our Running Special proves you can be both strong and speedy. This hybrid workout blends the best of strength and endurance training, helping you log miles and reps in equal measure—so you can sprint your way to swole.
Plus, we’ve tested the latest and greatest running shoes to bring you a footlocker of do-anything, run-faster trainers. 🚀
This article by Michelle October was originally published on Women’s Health SA – additional reporting and products added by the Men’s Health SA team.
Men’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.
