Running is a great way to get in shape. It’s also a great way to get hurt.
But if you’re going to do it, you’ve got to do it right. Your shoes are the most important part of that equation—they help provide shock absorption and reduce injuries like shin splints or plantar fasciitis. If you don’t have the right pair of running shoes, you could end up spending more time on the sidelines than on the track or trail.
So what are the best shoes for jogging? We’ve done some research and found out what makes a shoe great for running, and compiled it all in one place so that you don’t have to waste your time searching around for answers!
Best Shoes For Jogging Men
Everything You Need to Know to Find the Best Men’s Running Shoes
The right pair of shoes can help you run faster, farther and more comfortably. Here’s how to choose.
Whether you are an avid runner looking to shave seconds off your PR, a beginner just starting to track your runs or someone who just wants to be comfortable while running everyday errands, a good pair of men’s running shoes is a must-have. You can get shoes that are specialized for just about every running style and terrain including distance running shoes, trail running shoes, racing shoes and more. Running shoes vary in support, stability, cushioning and fit, so finding the right pair for you comes down to your own personal preferences and purpose for the shoes. This guide will walk you through our picks for the best running shoes for men to help you find the ones that are right for your fitness and everyday needs.
Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Men: Hoka Men’s Clifton 8
Key Facts:
- $140
- 8.90 ounces (0.56 pounds)
If you are looking for a good all around shoe for everyday walking and running, the lightweight Hoka Men’s Clifton 8 is an American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) approved option. This shoe has received the APMA Seal of Acceptance which means it was found to be beneficial to foot health by APMA-member podiatrists.
The Men’s Clifton 8 features an upper made from breathable engineered mesh and a cushioned compression-molded EVA midsole. EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam provides a soft, lightweight responsive design that helps offer shock absorption, while the early stage meta-rocker creates a smooth ride for your step. The high-abrasion rubber gusseted tongue provides padding and comfort for the top of your foot and the extended Achilles pull tab helps make these shoes easy to put on and take off.
Reviewers on the Hoka website comment that their favorite things about the shoe are how light, comfortable and cushioned this shoe is. Some reviewers also mentioned that these shoes were good for plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.
The Clifton 8 is vegan and made from recycled materials, features a five millimeter drop from heel to forefoot and is available in 19 colorways on the Hoka website. Select colorways are available in wide sizes.
Pros:
- Soft and lightweight vegan-friendly design
- Received American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance
- Good for everyday running and walking
Cons:
Best Road Running Shoes for Men: adidas Ultraboost 22
Key Facts:
- $190
- 11.7 ounces (0.73 pounds)
Looking for a shoe that can help you handle long miles on paved roads and treadmills comfortably? Try the adidas Ultraboost 22. This shoe is designed to make every step feel springy and responsive, thanks to its Boost midsole construction. That Boost foam is made up of tiny thermoplastic polyurethane particles that are expanded to form closed cells around pockets of air. The idea is that this construction will return kinetic energy, so that you’re not losing momentum in your stride.
Reviewers rave about the comfort and support of these shoes. “If you like walking on clouds and having a plushy ride with a little pep in your step then these are the shoes for you!” writes one reviewer on adidas’s website.
Pros:
- Yarn in upper contains at least 50% ocean plastic and 50% recycled polyester
- Excellent energy return
Cons:
Key Facts:
- $140
- 9.17 ounces (0.57 pounds)
The Salomon Ultra Glide is made for long distance off-road running performance thanks to its lightweight, cushioned and breathable construction designed to keep you comfortable. These trail running shoes have a variety of Salomon-exclusive features that provide a range of running benefits.
All Terrain Contagrip helps ensure that the trail runner shoes are appropriate for different distance running terrains including those that are wet, dry, hard or loose. Additionally, the shoe’s “Profeel Film” helps filter out uncomfortable elements that may get caught in your shoes like pebbles and sharp objects.
Several reviewers on the Salomon website comment about how well the Salomon Ultra Glide performs on different surfaces. For example, one reviewer says it holds up well on muddy and slippery terrain, while another reviewer comments that this shoe does well on frozen ground, mud and snow.
SensiFit helps ensure the shoe offers a good fit that is snug and secure while the “Energy Surge” midsole provides maximum cushioning with a rocker shape that creates a rolling feel. These shoes also feature Salomon’s Quicklace, a minimalistic style of lacing that offers fast, easy tightening and adjustments.
Salomon Ultra Glide shoes feature a six millimeter drop and are available in two colorways on the Salomon website.
Pros:
- Designed for a variety of terrains
- Good for long distances
- Soft, light, and cushy
Cons:
Best Running Shoes for Men with Plantar Fasciitis: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12
Key Facts:
- $134.99
- 10.5 ounces (0.65 pounds)
Plantar fasciitis, the most common cause of heel pain in adults, is commonly seen in runners. While pain from plantar fasciitis can improve with activity, a prolonged workout can make it worse. The right pair of running shoes may help provide relief, reducing aches and pains during daily use.
What makes the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 shoes unique is its use of Fresh Foam X, a material that New Balance employs to cushion high impact foot strikes. This soft foam was developed with data from 3D motion collected pressure mapping, along with real world intel from athletes. For this shoe style, Soft Foam X gives wearers a soft heel strike and a plush dual-layer midsole offers enhanced comfort. A double layer of breathable mesh for the upper lends support without sacrificing flexibility. Reflective details provide a functional design touch.
Several reviewers on the New Balance website comment that they like the amount of cushioning this shoe provides, including in the heel. A couple of reviewers even share that they feel like they are walking on clouds when wearing this shoe.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 comes in seven color choices and is available in a variety of widths including narrow, standard, wide and extra-wide.
Pros:
- Light supportive fit with soft, cushioned heel
- Available in a variety of widths
- Features Fresh Foam X
Cons:
Best Running Shoes for Men with Flat Feet: On Cloudflyer
Key Facts:
- $159.99
- 9.88 ounces (0.62 pounds)
According to research, 19-26.5 percent of people have flat feet, a condition which occurs when there is a reduced arch of the foot. When this happens the arch either touches the ground or is close to contacting the ground. Those with flat feet may need a wider shoe, and firm support is also beneficial.
Enter the Cloudflyer, a supportive lightweight running shoe, available in standard and wide fits. The secret to Cloudflyer’s formula for comfort is a combination of three elements. First, these On Running shoes are made with Helion superfoam, a lightweight, durable and temperature resistant material. Second, a bespoke Speedboard, a liquid-injected plate of thermoplastic polymer, is located between the midsole and upper to offer both a soft strike and flexing with energy return to propel you forward. Third, these shoes feature CloudTec, a cushioning innovation with the purpose of making you feel like you are running on clouds. This design combination offers support, lightweight agility, flexibility and impact protection.
The shoe features an ultralight engineered mesh upper that is breathable thanks to an airflow-optimizing design.
Reviewers on the On Running website share that these shoes are both comfortable and supportive. Several reviewers commented that these shoes are a good choice for those who need to be on their feet all day for work. One reviewer confirms, “This shoe is so lightweight it’s like walking on clouds.”
This maximum cushioned training and running shoe is available in five colorways on the On Running website.
Pros:
- Lightweight support
- Good for long runs
- Highly cushioned
Cons:
- Some reviewers say shoe materials wear out or get holes faster than other shoes
Best Rated Running Shoes for Men: Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert Shoes
Key Facts:
- $38.46- $77.09
- 9.9 ounces (0.62 pounds)
With over 21,000 reviews, and a 4.5 star overall rating, Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes have earned the “#1 Best Seller” rank for Men’s Road Running Shoes on Amazon. The affordable price point and durable, yet comfortable design helped propel the shoes to the top seller spot.
These Under Armour running shoes are designed to provide a balance of durable stability, flexibility and soft cushioning. A breathable mesh upper helps keep feet cool, while an EVA sockliner adds to comfort. The midsole features Charged Cushioning which uses compression molded foam to offer responsiveness that absorbs impact of your foot strike. Additionally, a solid rubber outsole contributes to the durability of this shoe.
Amazon reviewers frequently say that this shoe is a comfortable everyday shoe that’s a solid choice for a variety of activities including walking, running, working out at the gym or wearing while on the job. Some reviewers share that these are great shoes for those who are on their feet all day for work. For example, one reviewer who is a security officer said the Men’s Charged Assert Shoes are some of the most comfortable shoes the reviewer has tried in a while, and another reviewer who works in EMS said this shoe was a perfect choice due to being lightweight and comfortable.
Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert Shoes are available in 19 colorways on Amazon.
Pros:
- Charged cushioning provides comfort
- Good for long runs
- Good shoe to wear on the job
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Several reviewers say these shoes run small
- Some reviewers say the shoes fell apart faster than other shoes and for a few this occurred less than a month into regular use.
Best Stability Running Shoes for Men: Saucony Guide 15
Key Facts:
- $139.95
- 9.9 ounces (0.62 pounds)
Saucony Guide 15 delivers a comfortable option for those looking for a running shoe with stability.
Frankie Ruiz, chief running officer at national athletic events brand Life Time and co-founder of the Miami Marathon, shares that shoe technology has evolved quite a bit when it comes to stability features. While in the past some shoes with technical specs that added stability were not always the most comfortable, today you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for function. He particularly recommends stability shoes for beginner runners, heavier runners and those with flat feet or low arches.
When it comes to comfort, Saucony Guide 15 features a full bed of PWRRUN foam, Saucony’s adaptive cushioning technology that gives you more cushion while claiming its 28% lighter than Saucony’s previous foam. PWRRUN is made to absorb impact to allow for light springy responsiveness, while also offering softer landings. The underfoot contouring was designed to feel plush and supportive all around as it hugs your foot.
Ruiz explains that the main area of the shoe that includes stability improvement is near the midsole and this is the main area where shoe companies insert materials to add shoe stability.
In the case of Saucony Guide 15, a Hollow-Tech support system helps guide your step, adding structure without too much bulk as you move through your stride. Being a stability shoe, this shoe is on the firmer side.
Reviewers on Zappos.com consistently comment about how lightweight this shoe was and that it offered satisfying support.
This shoe features an eight millimeter drop, contains recycled upper materials and is available in seven colorways on Zappos.com.
Pros:
- Charged Cushioning provides comfort
- Good for long runs
- Highly cushioned
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- 50% of reviewers said the shoe runs small and narrow. Consider sizing up
Best Running Shoes for Men with Wide Feet: Asics Gel Cumulus 24
Key Facts:
- $130
- 10.1 ounces (0.63 pounds)
The Asics Gel Cumulus is designed to be a smooth everyday trainer that can be used for a variety of runs and distances. To improve on comfort, the shoe features a breathable engineered mesh upper and a variety of cushion-enhancing materials. Flytefoam cushioning, a light shock absorbing foam, is used in the midsole along with FF Blast cushioning, a lightweight impact-absorbing padding that helps ensure a soft landing and energized lift off. OrthoLite (a light foam insole material) X-30 sockliner, also adds to the comfort of the shoe.
You’ll find Asics Lite outsole rubber in the forefoot of the Gel Cumulus shoes for lightweight strength that offers resistance against wear. Meanwhile, AHARPLUS outsole rubber improves durability in the heel of the shoe. A reflective pattern on the outside of the shoe will help keep you visible to vehicles in low light situations.
Lastly, while some of the shoes of this list run narrow, the Gel Cumulus 24 is available in wide and extra wide options. Several reviewers on the Asics website raved about how comfortable this shoe is in extra wide and one reviewer said it “instantly cured” that person’s ball-of-foot pain.
Gel Cumulus 24 features an eight millimeter heel drop and is best suited for underpronation (high arches) or a neutral foot type. It’s available in two colorways for wide sizes and one colorway for extra wide sizes on the Asics.com website.
Pros:
- Versatile everyday shoe for a variety of running distances
- Features soft foam cushioning including Flytefoam® and FF Blast™ for comfort
- Available in wide and extra wide fits
Cons:
- Limited colorway options for wide and extra wide sizes
Best Running Shoes for Heavy Men: Brooks Glycerin 20
Key Facts:
- $160
- 10.1 ounces (0.63 pounds)
The Glycerin shoe first launched in the 1990s and was named after “Glycerine,” the song by the popular 90s band Bush. Glycerin, the shoe, has evolved over the years and the newest iteration features the latest cushioning technology, along with improvements in support and fit.
For heavier runners, Ruiz recommends more cushioned shoes. Brooks Glycerin 20 focused on cushioning with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3, a supersoft lightweight cushioning that provides extra comfort. This plush cushioning is durable and responsive to your stride.
Along with cushioning needs, you should also take into consideration the type of surfaces you’ll be walking or running on. The Brooks Glycerin 20 is best for track and road running.
An engineered air mesh upper provides a breathable, yet secure fit and an updated design in the midsole provides a wider platform to allow for smoother transitions.
Pros:
- Soft nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for max comfort
- Lightweight upper
- Improved fit
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the shoe runs slightly wide
How to Choose Men’s Running Shoes
“The most important thing to look for in a running shoe is comfort,” says Frankie Ruiz, chief running officer at national athletic events brand Life Time and co-founder of the Miami Marathon.
Ruiz says that the best way to get the right fit is to have your measurements taken by a trained shoe fitting specialist at a traditional running shoe store or running specialty retailer.
“I’ve seen some shoe fitting sessions take longer than an hour. And that’s perfectly fine and acceptable. You want to take your time, especially with your first pair as you enter the sport,” says Ruiz.
Ruiz says that once people find a brand and model they like, they often stick with it. “Do keep in mind that most shoe brands keep the same model, but much like cars they update them every year with minor and sometimes major modifications,” he explains.
If you are shopping online, Ruiz recommends looking for retailers with a generous return policy so that you are able to test out the shoes to see if you like them. He suggests trying them out on a treadmill with the same socks you’ll be running with on a regular basis.
“Give yourself about half a size of room between the toe and the shoe. You shouldn’t be sliding around in the toe box, but you should have room to wiggle the toes freely,” says Ruiz.
What Kinds of Men’s Running Shoes Are There?
There are many kinds of running shoes designed for different purposes and with different features prioritized. Men’s running shoe options include trail running shoes, distance running shoes, road running shoes, racing shoes, stability shoes, minimalist-style shoes and more.
What to Look for in Running Shoes
Intended Use
Based on your intended use, features you should look for will vary. For instance, if you plan to run long distances on a variety of terrains, you might need a grippy shoe designed for multiple surfaces. You also might want to consider a more cushioned shoe. On the other hand, if you are looking for a shoe for light walking or jogging, you might not need as much support.
If you are looking for speed, you’ll want to look for features that enhance your ability to go faster.
Ruiz says one common mistake people make is buying a trail shoe when all they need is a road shoe. “Trail shoes look like they will last longer and often their tread does, but they can be slower on the roads than a normal shoe,” says Ruiz.
Keep in mind, running shoes aren’t just for running but can also be a good choice to wear while at work. “It shouldn’t surprise you that jobs that require a lot of standing or walking often have most of their workforce wearing running shoes,” says Ruiz.
Fit
Choosing a correctly fitting shoe for your intended purpose will help you be more comfortable throughout your activities.
If possible, Ruiz recommends getting fitted by a trained shoe fitting specialist at a traditional brick and motor running shoe store. “A good tip when getting fitted is to consider going right after a run or later in the day. This increases the likelihood your measurement will be accurate,” says Ruiz.
Cushioning
Many brands have their own technological innovations when it comes to cushioning.
Ruiz cautions that you should be careful choosing a shoe solely based on cushion. “Softer isn’t always more comfortable. You may feel great standing or walking in the shoes because of all the cushion, but when it comes to running for several miles you realize that the comfort dissipates because of the lack of responsiveness of the shoe,” says Ruiz. The wrong cushioning can result in you needing greater force and energy to push off the ground.
Stability
Ruiz shares that you’ll find most of the stability improvements in the midsole which is where brands insert their stability mechanisms and materials such as midsole foam.
“The more rigid material creates the most stability. There are varying degrees of hardness in the foam or medial post device to provide the desired stability. Again, the driver here is comfort,” says Ruiz.
Ruiz warns that too much correction can make things uncomfortable and may eventually lead to injury.
“My experience has shown me that runners when they first start out need more stability, and then later on as they get faster and more efficient with their stride they need less stability,” says Ruiz. He recommends more stability for beginners, heavier runners, those with flat feet and those with low arches. Shoes with stability are also beneficial for those with overpronation (which can cause flat feet).
Support
Depending on your feet, gait and your running experience, the type of support you’ll need will vary.
Ruiz shares that most people getting into running should have general support to assist them with any collapse of the ankles and as they land and ready for the push-off of the next stride. It’s also important that those with high arches get a shoe with arch support that gently fills the gap so no part of the foot is floating.
“The idea behind the amount of support that a running shoe provides is to reduce the impact of each stride. The reduction of that impact will provide for a more comfortable run and ideally reduce some of the fatigue that can be associated with the pounding of each step,” says Ruiz.
Most beginners will need support near the midfoot and heel.
Weight
Weight of shoes may impact the runner’s performance. The shoes on this list range between around 6.6 and 10.5 ounces.
Ruiz says that the perception of the shoe’s weight is also important. “There are shoes that are considered light, yet when you run in them they feel clunky or maybe even heavy. So, the actual weight might be less than another model you are considering, yet the shoe just doesn’t feel as fast,” says Ruiz.
Cost
You can find running shoes for just about any budget. The prices of the shoes on this list range from around $38.46 to $160.
Ruiz shares that the most expensive running shoe isn’t always going to be what necessarily works best for you.
Here’s Ruiz’s secret when it comes to pricing: If it is a new running shoe (and current year/season model) and you are paying less than $100, there is a chance it is a lower end model. These models most likely aren’t going to last long or have advanced technology features. “Don’t make the mistake and buy these. They tend to have some cool colors and they seem stylish,” says Ruiz.
