12 Best Road Running Shoes for 2018

11 Best Road Running Shoes for 2018

If you need some stability in your life, the Structure 21 is ready to support you. Of the models on this list, the Structures are the best road running shoes for men or women who are looking for a support trainer for daily use. Generations of runners have found the Structure to be highly stable and reliable, and the current model features Nike’s engineered mesh upper with Flywire cables for a snug and comfortable fit.

The PureCadence is also classified as a support shoe, but it offers a more moderate level of stability in order to retain the flexibility, ground feel, and natural ride of the Brooks Pure line. The PureCadence sports a heel stack of just 22 mm, keeping you close to the ground and raising your heels just 4 mm above your toes. Saving weight under your heels will help you feel light on your feet as you put in miles on the road.

When it comes to road running shoes, Nike knows a thing or two. Like keep it light—at just 8.8 ounces in a men’s size 9, the LunarEpic is light enough for interval workouts or tempo runs. Or put cushion where it’s needed—under your heel. With 28 mm of Lunarlon and Phylon to cushion your footstrike, the LunarEpic will give you a smooth ride with as much cushion as a trainer like the Structure 21, but with an ounce less weight.

With three models in the top 12, Brooks takes first place as the best brand for road running shoes. What sets the Ghost above other models is its dependability. Although it’s a neutral trainer, it offers a highly stable ride, and the soles—a full 29 mm at the heel—will cushion your feet as effectively after 20 miles as they did when you started your long run. Runners also love the Ghosts for their durability. You won’t find yourself thinking, “They felt so comfortable when I first bought them. What happened?” With the Ghosts, that new running shoe feel is still with you hundreds of miles later.

Boost is the miracle midsole foam that has left all other shoe companies playing catch-up since 2013. It’s luxuriously soft when your foot lands, and it has a firm snap on toe-off. For the Adidas shoe engineers charged with designing the best road running shoes, 2018 is still under the sign of Boost. For their flagship neutral trainer, they’ve added Boost. Lots and lots of Boost. Which adds up to highly responsive cushioning and amazing comfort (admittedly, at a price that might raise your heartbeat to levels usually seen at the end of a 5K).

The running shoe industry has long been dominated by a handful of companies, but the last decade has seen a handful of upstarts rise to the top. Five of the top seven models on this list are from companies founded in 2007 or later. Newton’s primary innovation consists of forefoot mechanical lugs that store energy for a soft landing and release it for a snappy toe-off. The Gravity 7 achieves high energy return by combining its Action-Reaction lugs with a springy midsole foam, while keeping the weight of the Gravity 7 low enough for faster road workouts.

If you think that you can recognize Hoka shoes on sight by the inches they add to people’s height, think again: The Tracer 2 is thoroughly mid-pack when it comes to stack height. Where the Tracer excels is how little it weighs. At just 7.6 ounces, it’s the lightest model on this list. If you love the Hoka combination of generous cushioning and low heel-toe offset, but are looking for something a little faster for your workouts or road racing, put the Tracer 2 on the top of your list of shoes to try on.

On, like Hoka and Newton, is another recent entrant on the running shoe scene. Like Newton, it takes a mechanical approach to building the perfect sole. The Cloudtec elements lining the outsole are designed to cushion your landing by storing the energy of impact and then releasing it to power your stride. In the Cloudflow, this approach yields a shoe that is firm and flexible with a low-profile, low-weight sole. At just 8.2 ounces, the Cloudflow is ready for your fast days.

Altra is the fourth startup shoe company to land a model near the top of the list. Or make that two models. Both the One and the Escalante are lightweight, performance-minded shoes that exemplify the Altra approach to running shoes. They’re both under 8 ounces (and within a hair of the Tracer 2 in weight) with a roomy toe box, and they both have perfectly flat, zero-drop heel-toe offsets. So what’s the difference? The One is firmer and more flexible, so it might be your first choice if you’re looking for race day performance in a zero-drop package. 

As for the Escalante, its ride is softer than the One but just as responsive, thanks to a sole that offers as much energy return as the Ultra Boost. The balance of responsiveness and cushioning in the Escalante has quickly earned it numerous fans sins its introduction in 2017, and a Runner’s World [Editor’s Choice](https://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/altra-escalante-mens) award. The Escalante also does particularly well on the list of best road running shoes for women.

Will the running shoe start-ups out-innovate the cumbersome shoe giants? Brooks isn’t just sitting around watching its market be disrupted. The Levitate 2 is a neutral daily trainer, but Brooks has dropped the heel-toe offset from the usual 12 or 10 mm toward a more aggressive 8 mm, and with its DNA AMP midsole material, it can go head to head with the bounciest Boost soles from Adidas. Combine all that with a soft forefoot and heel, and you have a phenomenally smooth ride with cushioned landings and extra spring in every step.

Running may be simple, but the itch for a competitive edge or simple curiosity often ends up filling our closets with shoes for every occasion. We have our daily trainers, and uptempo shoes for workouts, plus two different pairs of shoes for shorter or longer races, and those trail shoes we picked up for snowy days or bad weather. Can’t we just get one pair of shoes that does it all? Saucony is bringing freedom—to your overflowing closet, at least—in the Freedom ISO 2. They have enough cushion for daily running, but a low 4 mm heel-toe offset and a full-length Everun sole for high energy return and extra bounce in your step. Can one shoe really do it all? A lot of runners who voted the Freedom ISO 2 to the top of the list think so.

Saucony Running Shoe

12 Best Saucony Running Shoes for 2019

Running fast is not just for young, testosterone-drenched men – the Fastwitch 9 is actually the number one model on our list of best Saucony women’s running shoes. At just 6.5 ounces in a men’s size 9, the Fastwitch is a fast, light racing shoe with moderate support for runners who need some stability features.


The Guide and the Ride are highly popular sibling models serving overpronators and neutral runners, respectively. Both the Guide and the Ride are daily trainers that have won loyal fans through their dependability, and now that they feature an Everun layer in their soles, these daily trainers also boast some of the highest energy returns in the whole Saucony lineup. The Guide has recently gotten the ISO treatment, Saucony’s shorthand for a re-engineered upper whose breathability and comfortably snug fit has earned rave reviews. With the stability features that overpronators need, the Guide may be the best Saucony for flat feet.


The best Saucony running shoes for men who need neutral shoes would have to include the Ride, the Guide’s neutral twin. The Ride is a no-nonsence every day trainer that fits all types of runners, whether they're putting in long runs for a marathon or they're looking to pick up the pace on a tempo run. 

How is Everun different from regular EVA soles? Think of EVA as the angel on your shoulder telling you to run a sensible pace, know your limits, and get plenty of recovery. Meanwhile, Everun is whispering, “C’mon, it feels good to run fast. Feel how bouncy these shoes are? Just try a little uptempo surge to see what these shoes can do. You’ll like it. It’s only a little bit faster...” For its best running shoes, Saucony combines a perfectly-fitting ISO upper with not just a layer of Everun, but a full Everun midsole as well, making the Triumph something like the Ride’s premium big brother.


The Kinvara, a highly popular uptempo trainer, is a good example of how for Saucony, “best running shoes” and “fastest running shoes” are nearly synonymous. At just 7.6 ounces, the Kinvara 11 is responsive and light enough to race in for some runners, while for other runners, it’s cushioned, comfortable, and stable enough for daily training. For a lot of runners, it’s both. No need to change shoes in between warming up and lining up at the starting line (or collecting the trophy at the finish).


Just like the Guide and the Ride siblings, the Hurricane is the Triumph’s twin, adding stability features to a full Everun sole and ISO upper to create Saucony’s premium support trainer. With plush cushioning and support where it’s needed, the Hurricane belongs to the best Saucony running shoes for supination.


The top rated Saucony running shoes include several uptempo trainers and racing shoes, but the Type A stands out even among Saucony’s jet set. Weighing just 5.7 ounces, the Type A’s mission is to be the ultimate no-compromise, no-excuses performance shoe. Do you need some extra support? You’ll have to look elsewhere (at the Fastwitch, specifically). Do you need some extra cushion for longer road races? Sorry, try the Kinvaras. What the Type A’s offer is unparalleled flexibility and a firm ride that adds zero unneeded weight to your feet and no obstacles to your next PR attempt.


The best Saucony shoes aren’t all found on the roads. The Peregrine combines Everun responsiveness and an aggressive 4 mm heel-toe drop with the sensitive ground feel, midfoot lockdown, and grip of an aggressively lugged trail shoe. That’s a lot of aggression for one shoe. The Peregrine is for technical trail and mountain running (and possibly for runners with a few anger issues as well).


Like the highly popular Brooks Ghost, the Echelon is a neutral trainer with moderate stability features. The Echelon was also specifically designed to accommodate custom orthotics. With their very soft heel and forefoot and stability features, the Echelons may be the best Saucony shoes for flat feet.


Based on runner’s votes, the best Saucony running shoe overall (and second best women’s Saucony running shoes) is the Freedom ISO, Saucony’s top of the line crossover uptempo trainer. It features the 4 mm heel-toe drop and flexibility of the Kinvara and other uptempo Saucony shoes, but the Freedom’s soles are bouncier, thanks to its full-length Everun sole and outstanding energy return. The Freedom is relatively light for a full size daily trainer, but it’s highly responsive cushioning feels even lighter on the feet. Can there be one running shoe that’s good at everything? Saucony nominates the Freedom as its candidate, and a lot of runners agree.


10 Best Saucony Running Shoes for 2020

12 Best Neutral Running Shoes Overall for 2018

The Wave Rider 21 delivers cloud-like comfort and durability. This women's running shoe features engineered mesh for maximum breathability, as well as cloud wave, lightweight foam with a soft, pillowy feel.

The 100% lightweight mesh upper is designed to be breathable and soft yet durable, while the innovative engineered mesh delivers a sock-like fit. The wave top of the Rider 21 provides stability and structure, adaptable to each run as you choose your running surface. Innovative cloud wave cushioning enhances cushioning and offers an even softer landing impact. An aggressive wave outsole is designed for enhanced grip and traction on varied surfaces with strategically placed flex grooves. Traditional lacing has been replaced with our signature BOA Lacing System that eliminates pressure points for a better overall fit.

The underfoot cushioning enhances this cloud-like feel while delivering excellent cushioning along with a lighter overall ride.


Nike LunarEpic Low Flyknit 2 Shoes for men a style icon evolves with the original. They boast a lightweight, flexible mesh upper that fits like a glove and delivers all-day comfort. And you can expect premium cushioning from the Lunarlon midsole for all-day comfort. Whether you're wearing it to your daily grind or rocking it on game day, the Nike Air Force 1 is an iconic sneaker you can't go without. Or do without.

The Nike LunarEpic Low Flyknit 2 offers everything you need to dominate the court and the next challenge with technology that delivers responsive cushioning for a smooth ride.

With a Nike Zoom Air cushioning system for plush comfort and responsive traction outsole pods for added versatility, you can wear our LunarEpic with your favorite shorts or Nike sweatpants.


In determining the best neutral running shoes, women’s and men’s votes both helped the Brooks Ghost 10 earn a spot on this list. With a soft heel and supportive features in a neutral shoe, the Ghost has developed a reputation as a durable and highly reliable trainer that will get you through a run of any length. It’s also tied for the least expensive shoe on this list. The Ghost 10 is a [Runner’s World Editor’s Choice](https://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/brooks-ghost-10-mens) award winner, and a great choice if you’re more interested in running than in using your feet as a test bed for experimental technology.

Adidas started with a blank piece of paper and designed the best running shoe ever made. The Ultra Boost has that same clean sheet of paper feel, stripping away all excess, advancing the category in significant ways. With a revolutionary fit that hugs your foot like never before. With construction methods borrowed from Adidas' leading performance cleats giving you a level of comfort unheard-of in such a lightweight shoe.

This is the sneaker that started it all. From the streets to the track, running has been reinvigorated by Ultra Boost. With its exceptional cushioning and supportive fit, this energy-returning marvel delivers pure fast speed to every athlete who steps into it. From the first Ultra Boost to Ultraboost 19 to Ultraboost 20, each generation of the Adidas Ultra Boost kicks has steadily evolved and sought to raise the bar in speed, energy return, comfort, and style.

We are the generation that seeks and accepts no limits. To you, we offer a different viewpoint on what you thought possible. A shoe does not end at its sole. Make every step count as if each one were your last: Adidas ultra boost.


The Gravity 7 has the same racing DNA as its slimmer sister shoe, the Cascade. However, it's also been designed with the avid British hillwalker in mind. As such, less material means more sensitivity and lighter weight. With excellent underfoot protection and stability for demanding hillwalkers that like to run, the Gravity 7 is perfect for long days on Ben Nevis or Snowdonia. A rigid carbon strong midsole gives lightweight support you can trust, and the R4 rubber compound outsole will have grip even when wet.

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32 is a lightweight running shoe. It features an articulated upper that provides a sock-like fit and a resilient foam midsole that enhances cushioning. The forefoot is flexible and the outsole is made with carbon rubber for traction and durability. The new Newton Gravity 7 features a stripped-down, minimal upper design with seamless materials that make for an ultra-lightweight shoe that won't hold you back from reaching your goals.

Is the engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and fit while the Stabilicore? the platform offers just enough stability to take your off-road performance to the next level.


The Hoka One One Tracer is a very fast, very light road racing flat. Good luck finding another shoe this light with this much cushion anywhere else. We kept everything you loved about the original and made some key improvements for better durability and fit. We engineered the Tracer 2 to be the ultimate high-performance race shoe. When you are racing, nothing is more important than speed, and this shoe will help you go faster than ever before.

The incredibly responsive ride is a result of unique midsole geometry that produces a lower center of gravity while maintaining an ideal balance between lightweight and cushioning. The all-new Tracer 2 is lighter and more nimble than any shoe in its category, making it the perfect training partner for your fastest workouts. If you love being on the go, the Hoka One One Tracer 2 is your shoe.

Maximize your cushioning potential with the all-new ultra-plush On Cloudflow. Made with 18 cloud elements to deliver a truly adaptive fit, this shoe is designed for super-responsive cushioning that adapts to different parts of your foot. The new Helion super foam under the forefoot provides high cushioning for quick stops and accelerations.

The On Cloudflow is an adaptive running shoe designed for overpronators whose feet tend to be flat. The new Speedboard re-engineered foot-strike platform and curved heel unit provide a stable hold, enhanced durability, stability, and comfort. This shoe features strategic taping and a new lacing configuration geared specifically toward the needs of high-speed goals. The proven one-piece speed board allows for superior acceleration and grip while the lightweight insole provides cushioning and support during high-impact aerobic activity. The dual-density Helion super foam combines with the re-engineered speedboard® to create a seamless ride. The free-flex in the forefoot makes this shoe move with the foot while still providing support where it is needed most.

The Cloudflow joins a new generation of running shoes as we redefine "all-terrain". Its beveled heel not only ensures a snappy transition but also makes it easier to put on and take off. Its unique lacing configuration means you can get an extremely snug fit, while strategic taping means this shoe provides both cushioning and support. Welcome to the next generation in running experience.


To really see how the running shoe industry has been shaken up, consider this: three of the top five models on this list are from Altra, founded in 2009 in Logan, Utah. Altra’s philosophy is that for the best running shoes, neutral-foot runners need responsive cushion, flat soles, and plenty of room to spread their toes. Like other Altra models, the One’s sole is the same height at heel and toe (“zero drop”), although the One is more flexible and firmer for a snappier toe-off. Combined with a weight of just 7.9 ounces, the Altra One is an excellent choice for uptempo efforts and races.

The Altra Escalante is the update of an old favorite: the original Escalante. Comfortable, casual, and capable, this updated model is ready for all-day action. The updated sock-like upper is lightweight, breathable, and supremely comfortable. Our team worked tirelessly to incorporate a brand new ArmaFlex midsole and more soft foam underfoot to deliver even more comfort than before. 

The ultralight waterproof materials have been redesigned to be lighter yet still durable. The new sock-like comfort upper conforms to your foot with each step and provides additional support for a zero break-in period. Whether you are going on a day hike or carrying gear for a weekend trip, the updated Escalante will easily handle the journey and provide plenty of storage options for your necessities.

A sock-like upper delivers comfort, breathability, and durability in equal measure while the footbed offers great underfoot cushioning for all-day action. Updated materials and construction bring a little structure and a lot of support to the original's soft and breathable upper. Its minimal construction allows for maximum ventilation and natural foot movement to keep you comfortable from day one to last. Running with the Zero Drop crowd? This is the shoe for you! The One is a shoe that blends classic running shoe benefits with innovative design to create a Runners have rewarded the Escalante’s blend of cushion and responsiveness with strong sales, and Runner’s World rewarded it with an [Editor’s Choice](https://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/altra-escalante-mens) award.

The Brooks Levitate is a brand new neutral running shoe that will offer runners the cushioning and support they want and need. The new-look is sporty and simple, but don’t let its minimalist style fool you. With a Dynamic Support System that ensures targeted cushioning at the heel strike and a Rearfoot GEL Cushioning system to take over from impact to toe-off, this new shoe will help you run more efficiently while also supporting your foot through each stride to give better energy return for every step you take.

Created with the attributes that matter most to runners, we build shoes with your exact needs in mind, and continually refine them for maximum comfort. The Levitate running shoe blends the Brooks DNA with a new design. With our most natural cushioning system and unrivaled fit, you’ll fly through your runs and become one with your stride in a way you never imagined possible. This shoe is the perfect combination of innovation and style. Its advanced cushioning system adapts to your stride for comfort over any distance, and it's sleek upper gives you a fast, clean look on race day!

Run in absolute comfort and freedom with the Saucony Freedom ISO 2, complete with ISOKNIT. ISOKNIT is an engineered performance knit that combines the sock-like feel of ISOFIT technology with breathable support - it is designed to provide you with a great underfoot experience. Featuring Saucony's EVERUN technology, which offers a premium foam layer below your foot for incredible cushioning and responsiveness, this running shoe is an awesome choice for any runner looking for lightweight cushioning and freedom of movement.

Its EVERUN topsole features Saucony's signature premium cushioning compound for maximum energy return that places less stress on your joints while allowing your body to move more naturally - making you feel fast, confident, and protected as you reach your potential. It combines a sock-like fit and feels with a lightweight and breathable engineered knit upper for a running experience that lets you feel the road beneath you. It's a new way of feeling. A feeling of freedom, of possibilities. Run without rules, however, whenever and wherever. That's how you feel in the Freedom ISO 2.
The Women's Saucony Freedom ISO 2 running shoe is lighter and even more comfortable with EVERUN. For a quick recovery, treat your feet to our first ever all knitted insole. A unique lacing system wraps the ankle in comfort.


If you outfit them with the best running shoes, neutral feet can go anywhere. While the Escalante was the lightest shoe on this list, the Olympus 3.0 is the heaviest—not surprising or even a bad thing in a shoe designed for racing across some of the most rugged and technical trails in the western United States. It’s nearly 100 miles from the Altra headquarters in Logan to the peak of Mount Olympus in the Wasatch range, but that’s no problem: The Olympus 3.0 is ready to protect and cushion your feet for ultramarathons whose distances climb into the triple digits.

12 Best Neutral Running Shoes Overall

Brooks

11 Most Comfortable Men’s Running and Walking Shoes

Whether you're a marathon runner or just enjoy daily strolls around your neighborhood, this post covers the most comfortable walking shoes for men.

The Altra Torin 4 was designed by Altra's Director of Global Research & Development, biomechanics expert and elite athlete Dan Lieberman, and elite ultrarunner Karl Meltzer. This rearfoot striking specific shoe has a deeply sculpted heel for a roomy fit, full foot support, zero drop platform with a moderate collar height that fits comfortably below the ankle bone, and outsole that is strategically decoupled for an efficient and flexible ride. Our newest midsole material, the Quantic delivers smooth stimulating energy while walking for busy men. 

The updated women's Adrenaline GTS running shoe incorporates all the hallmarks of the best-selling line, with a fresh look for 2019. This holistic guide rail offers superior stability, while Brooks DNA cushioning provides a responsive ride that adapts to every footstrike. Features include a seamless upper, breathable mesh lining, and 1/2 inch heel drop for a smoother stride.

With its versatile design, the GEL-NIMBUS® 22 not only offers stability on any terrain but also features a superior fit and new technologies to improve comfort and performance. Durability comes from the upper made of strong yet lightweight synthetic leather with a mesh overlay for ventilation and comfort without sacrificing durability; while the new GEL-NIMBUS® 22 cushioning system delivers high levels of shock absorption and rebound off the forefoot for quick toe-offs.

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is a unique changeup to the running shoe category. The React technology helps propel the athlete forward, and gives the runner an added edge. Combined with an ultra-lightweight upper, that stays true to its design, this sneaker removes any lingering doubts about running in Nike shoes. The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is a neutral trainer with an energy-returning sole that’s sleek yet durable, a breathable, laced mesh upper and tonal understated branding.

The same GuideRails® support, but in a lighter, faster package. The 11th generation Ravenna goes fast with new lightweight materials and a sleeker design that reduces the overall shoe weight for steamrolling through miles—or blocks. K-EVA® midsole cushioning provides the comfort you need in daily training without feeling extra weight on your legs.

Altra's flagship performance running shoe, the Escalante 2.5 is ideal for runners looking for a lightweight footwear option that will keep their feet happy as they stride the streets, sprint down the gravel, or pound the trail. This completely redesigned shoe features a midsole combination of Altra EGO™ and InnerFlex™ to offer better flexibility and an overall improved performance. The sock-like upper features a zero-drop platform and is breathable, lightweight, and supremely comfortable.

If you’ve been running in New Balance neutral shoes for years, you may be worried that they will go away from some of your favorites as they bring in new models. The 1080 v10 has kept its place in runner’s hearts and on their feet as a premium neutral daily trainer and one of the best New Balance running shoes. The Fresh Foam 1080 offers all of the benefits of a premium stability running shoe in a lightweight trainer. This innovative model features our iconic REVlite cushioning, a snug-fitting bootie construction, and an ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole that allows runners to conquer any distance with comfort and stability.

The secret to the Saucony Freedom ISO 2's comfortable design lies in the brand's Everun and Isoknit features. The Everun is cushioning in the midsole that is flexible yThe secret to the Saucony Freedom ISO 2's comfortable design lies in the brand's Everun and Isoknit features. The Everun is cushioning in the midsole that is flexible yet durable. The Isoknit appears in the shoe's upper. It's a material that wraps the foot while still allowing for refreshing airflow. Lugs along the bottom of the shoe give you a good degree of traction. 

Saucony's best comfort running shoes are available in colors ranging from a hard-to-ignore red to a more subdued black or gray. The Freedom ISO 2 is a premium running shoe for high-mileage neutral runners. Designed to take on longer distances with support and stability, it features Saucony’s EVERUN™ cushioning, ISOKNIT. ISOKNIT combines the soft, breathable comfort of an elastic knit upper with the dynamic fit system of ISOFIT. It also includes durable overlays for support and premium midsole foam for responsive cushioning.

The Brooks Glycerin feels like a plush sock around your foot due to the upper's design. Despite this snug and secure fit, the shoe's mesh upper also allows for flexible motion and breathability. In the midsole, the brand's DNA Loft cushioning provides your foot protection against impacts. In addition to being comfortable, the shoe also allows you to tackle wet roads without the fear of slipping. The shoe is mostly available in subdued colors, so if you really want to show off some bright colors while you're out for a run, consider the final shoe on this list. 

The Clifton 7 is the seventh edition of Hoka’s lightweight, cushioned, and stable running shoe. The minimalist shoe continues the Clifton family tradition by continuing to build on the best-loved qualities of its predecessors. The midsole and ride characteristics remain unchanged in the latest addition to the Clifton line. Additional updates are in the upper construction of engineered mesh fabric that is lighter than prior versions, as well as an entirely new design that focus on a streamlined silhouette for improved appearance and support from a single layer of tightly knit material.

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