Best Jogging Shoes for Women

11 Best Jogging Shoes for Women for 2020

If it seems like the Clifton 5 has been on every list of running shoes you’ve seen over the past year, that’s because it has. It’s one of the most popular women’s jogging shoes because what it does, it does so well. Hoka One One is known for cushioning and while the Clifton 5 is not the most cushioned shoe in Hoka’s fleet, it has the perfect blend of cushion and firmness with the brand’s EVA midsole cushioning throughout the midsole. Like all of Hoka’s shoes, it has a patented Metarocker design that makes for a low heel-toe drop and a rounded sole to propel you smoothly forward. The wider toe box of the Clifton 5 suits a woman jogger perfectly, as a wider forefoot and narrower heel is more typical of a woman’s foot. As an upgrade from the Clifton 4, this latest model has a newly engineered mesh that makes the shoe more breathable and looking super fresh.

One again, Adidas does it what it does best by blending style and function in a shoe you can wear while pounding roadways or window-shopping. The Pureboost X 3.0 is the latest version of the brand’s Pureboost line to boast Boost cushioning technology. This cushioning material is made of tiny Boost beads that come together like Styrofoam to provide an extremely responsive yet bouncy ride. Combined with the flexible Stretchweb rubber on the outsole that provides a soft, comfortable landing, this shoe feels noticeably springier compared to other jogging shoes. But Adidas wouldn’t be Adidas without finding some way to stand out from the crowd and the uppers of this shoe are what set it apart. Yes, Stella McCartney designed several in this line. But what makes them even more unique is that the tongue is attached to the upper and the engineered mesh is extremely thin, both of which make for a superior sock-like fit that can conform to the shape of a woman’s foot. 

Saucony is a brand that many joggers feel will never steer them wrong. The great thing about the Freedom ISO 2 is that it takes Saucony’s impressively long history and combines it with the most modern features to make a cool-looking and high quality women’s jogging shoe. The brand’s Everun cushioning runs the entire length of the shoe in a continuous layer of cushiony support. The outsole is made of the brand’s extremely durable “crystal rubber” that has superior grip on wet roads for those damp morning jogs. Similar to Adidas’ Pureboost X 3.0, the upper of this latest edition Freedom is what steals the show with Saucony’s new Isoknit technology. It’s a snug, knit fabric that provides maximum breathability with a conforming fit that is both flexible and supportive. 

Though some may think Mizuno has always flown under the radar, their name is well known to long time runners. The Wave Sky 2 has all the unique hallmarks of the brand with two layers of their Cloudwave cushioning, the bottom layer being softer than the firmer top layer to provide a blend of softness and stability. Meanwhile, the brand’s patented plastic Wave plate along the arch helps promote arch support and disperse impact while the outsole is outfitted with carbon rubber in the heel and forefoot, increasing durability and traction. Like the other shoes on this list, the Wave Sky 2’s upper also got a makeover with a more breathable mesh and the use of ventilated fabric wraps along the midsole that give the shoe a secure fit. All told, this solid shoe is one of the best women’s shoes for both walking and jogging with these latest upgrades.

The Tracer 2 was designed to be a racing shoe and is noticeably lighter than other Hoka shoes as well as the shoes of many other brands, weighing under 7 ounces for a women’s 7.5. What’s pretty amazing about it is that it maintains this weight while still possessing all of the cushioning that characterizes the brand and is similar to the Clifton 5 in that it uses it’s cushioning to be a combination of both softness and firmness. One aspect that keeps the shoe light is that rubber is only used on the forefoot and heel of the outsole, with Hoka’s patented PROFLY cushioning making up the remainder of the outsole and providing an extra layer of softer protection around the heel.  In what seems to be a trend among the next generation of many shoes, Hoka also revamped the upper with a newly engineered mesh that has a more secure fit in comparison to the original model. Hoka One One is certainly a name that lands in many “best of” categories and this shoe is no exception by being one of the best jogging shoes for women.

If you’re a lifetime jogger, chances are you’ve owned a pair of Asics along the way. The brand is time-tested and has multiple versions of classic models that continue to remain relevant with every trend. The GEL-DS Trainer is now in its 23rd edition and has the brand’s trademark GEL cushioning in the heel for increased cushioning right where you need it most. They’ve updated their Flytefoam technology so that it now uses organic fibers that don’t lose their shape over time. The Duosole rubber of the outsole is lighter than typical rubber soles, making the Trainer 23 lighter than many other Asics models, while their more stable and durable High Abrasion Rubber is reserved for the heel and forefoot. Asics prides itself on research and has made upgrades to all its women’s running shoes to better support a woman’s more variable arch height. The brand also uses a lower density midsole cushioning to allow for greater impact absorption and responsiveness while still accommodating the lighter female runner. This gender-specific attention to detail has certainly earned Asics the devotion of many women runners over the years and the GEL-DS Trainer is no exception.

Sometimes you just need the greater support of a stability shoe and New Balance’s 1260v7 delivers that benefit without looking like your grandmother’s shoe. This shoe has New Balance’s new Abzorb cushioning throughout with a lateral piece of Fuelcell cushioning from the heel to the midfoot to better absorb shock from each heel strike.  An asymmetrical heel counter promises better heel stability while the mesh upper has underlays that wrap around the midfoot to provide better arch support. New Balance wants you to keep jogging even if you require a little more stability from your shoe and the 1260v7 promises to do just that. Fortunately, it looks so good that only you and New Balance will know that’s it’s a stability shoe.

When Brooks designed the Levitate series they were looking to make a more responsive shoe.  If reputation is any signifier, they succeeded and only added to the line’s popularity with upgrades in the Levitate 2. Right off the bat the new upper is apparent, as it’s made of knit, not mesh. This makes for an extremely conforming and supportive fit and Brooks highlights this difference even more by providing the Levitate 2 with flashier colors than is typical of the brand. But the responsiveness for which this line is known comes from the DNA Amp cushioning that resists expanding upon impact with the ground and instead returns the energy of the impact (but not the shock) to the runner, making her feel propelled forward. Even though this shoe is on the heavier side, this responsiveness is a huge mitigating factor for its weight so your last mile is as full of energy as your first.

New Balance cracks our top three best jogging shoes for women with a shoe that consistently performs for not just jogging, but for walking, standing, and generally being an extremely comfortable and supportive shoe for any activity. The FreshFoam Vongo v3 was designed with overpronaters in mind but the extra stability that design creates can benefit anyone who is on their feet a lot in the course of a day. The subtle wedge of the shoe guides the overpronated foot into a straighter gait and the extra Freshfoam cushioning throughout provides increased softness. To counteract the extra cushioning, the upper was constructed with a sock-like fit and what New Balance calls a 3D screen print midfoot cage right across the middle to provide greater security for your foot.  You can literally do almost anything in this shoe and it will provide you with the cushioning and support you need to do it.

Just because the Epic React Flyknit comes in a variety of pinks doesn’t mean that it’s any less of a tough girl. Not to be outdone by anyone, especially Adidas, this shoe has the super trendy knit upper in a variety of colors with a seamless tongue and a “bootie” design that allows you to easily slip the shoe on and off. And speaking of slipping around, the Epic React Flyknit has a foam heel clip inside the shoe to keep the heel from slipping and provide stability to the entire rear of your foot. The patented React foam continues to evolve cushioning beyond just being soft and supportive by providing responsiveness with the road as well. This shoe harnesses the energy you put out and gives it right back so you feel almost thrust forward.  Like so many of these shoes’ outsoles, rubber is only used on the heel and forefoot so you stay as light as a feather while still maintaining traction where you need it most. But that Nike swoosh is something none of these other brands will ever have and, for a Nike lover, there’s just nothing like it.

Our number one spot on the list of the best jogging shoes for women goes to a company that that is a baby in the century old field of running shoes but a giant in the world of runners. On is a ten year old Swiss company that set out to revolutionize running by not correcting your stride, but adapting to it and making it the best it can be while still remaining uniquely yours. The Cloudtec cushioning On uses is a series of “cloud pods” on the outsole of the shoe that provide cushioning only when On says you need it: when your foot hits the ground. Upon doing so, it provides you with the ultimate cushioning support and then firms up again to give you the ultimate in energy return as you propel forwards. The Cloudflow has eighteen cloud pods; more than any other On shoe, and these clouds are rounded to provide even more propulsion forward. The outsole is primarily made up of the brand’s Zero-Gravity Foam with their Rebound Rubber on the sole and forefoot.  And because these cloud pods are hollow, this shoe is one of the lightest you can find, at just 6.7 ounces for a women’s size 7.  The On Cloudflow is pretty much a glass slipper for the 21st century: it will help you run right past Prince Charming to your personal finish line.

New Balance Vazee Prism v2

2016-03-20-best-lightweight-trainers

Using lightweight trainers is one of the best ways to mimic the feel of racing. This blog covers the best lightweight trainers that are excellent to train in.

The Adizero Prime takes lightweight running and redefines it. We started with the Adidas Primeknit upper—a one-of-a-kind material that's both breathable and incredibly strong. Then, we sculpted it to fit your foot in any direction. This gives you a snug, comfortable fit that adapts to every step. We then fused this socklike structure with an ultra-light, ultra-flexible sole made of Continental Rubber – the same stuff they use to make tires. Put them on and you'll feel like you're barely wearing anything at all.

The Adizero Prime shoes were designed to be sturdy and lightweight, made possible with an innovative weaving method called Primeknit. This breakthrough technology makes it possible to create a supportive shoe in an extremely lightweight package. Members of the Adidas Primeknit family, these shoes have a stretchy, sock-like upper for a barefoot feel and to keep you comfortable on long runs. The shoe's Anti-Cage construction technology prevents movement between the forefoot and midfoot.

The Adizero was designed to meet the needs of an athlete who requires a shoe that offers protection, stability, and support. Boost is Adidas' most responsive cushioning platform, offering maximum energy return for quick reaction before your foot even hits the ground, and keeping your feet close to the ground for bigger impacts.

A relative newcomer from New Balance (it replaces the 890), this shoe is light, secure, and feels fast. And unlike its other Vazee cousins like the Vazee Rush and Vazee Coast—both priNew Balance designed this version to provide a responsive and smooth ride in a sneaker that delivers under pressure. The Vazee Series combines a standard collar with an internal bootie. A breathable mesh upper features soft synthetic overlays and a stretchy chassis for a supportive fit. An asymmetrical lacing system offers a personalized fit, while the combination of Pro-Lock laces, tongue stabilizer, and internal heel counter secures your foot during your workout. A lightweight molded EVA midsole reduces shock on impact and works with the rubber outsole to lend durability and traction.

Constructed with a lightweight and breathable mesh fabric, the women’s MaxTraxion TR III GTX is a great choice for athletes looking for a stability shoe that still offers a barefoot-like feel. The Vazee Pace v2 is a lightweight trainer that delivers an even lighter and more responsive ride than its predecessor, which was already very popular with our test runners at Runner's World. It features a redesigned outsole to provide quick ground contact and a dynamic ride. The upper is now made of a lighter microfiber.ced at $75—the Pace feels (and is priced) like a premium shoe. The Vazee Pace has a nicely cushioned insole and roomy toe box. A few more strides in, and you'll realize it's a surprisingly firm shoe that feels very fast. The biggest downside of the shoe? The upper isn't great and, when not laced properly, it can feel constricting. 

The Wave Sayonara 4 is a neutral running shoe that takes inspiration from the Wave Sayonara 4. This lightweight trainer is for the runner who wants the benefits of added cushioning but doesn't want to sacrifice too much speed. A relatively firm ride promotes quicker turnover, and a lightweight aspect feels fast initially but loses a little over long distances.

The Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4 is designed with a more fluid, flexible ride that promotes a faster pace. Steve describes this shoe as soft and lightweight, which may be true for those runners who desire less cushioning. However, the low- to mid-foot has some support with good arch stability. The composition of this shoe makes it responsive and rigid enough for the long-distance runner, but still fluid and flexible for the racer. The Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4 is a moderately cushioned shoe for those runners who want a lightweight shoe that still provides some protection and responsiveness.

Get the lightweight, breathable support and cushion you need with the Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4. Lightweight mesh, a plush footbed, and sufficient cushioning make this shoe an excellent choice for both training and racing.


The Brooks Launch 5 delivers the energy return of a racing flat with the comfort and durability of a trainer. In the new version 5, which debuted in spring 2013, the upper has been completely redesigned to improve fit and reduce weight. The redesigned overall shape is more contoured and secure, with no excess materials on the toe or heel. This shoe also features an all-new midsole that combines speed DNA cushioning with DNA stabilizing crash pad technology for added support.

The Launch 5 offers the comfort, durability, and ride feel of a trainer mixed with the speed and lightweight characteristics of a racing flat. The specially designed spring plate coupled with Brooks' BioMoGo DNA midsole technology provides comfort and cushioned support for many miles ahead.
The Launch 5 is a perfect blend of cushion and durability. The dynamic offset or "smile" encourages midfoot striking, and the BONTRAGER DNA midsole provides just the right amount of cushioning for every mile. Ideal for aggressive runners who hit the pavement hard, the Launch 5 can withstand everyday training and marathons alike.


The Saucony Kinvara 8 is not for beginners. It is made for those who want to go fast and farther. We upgraded us fan favorite neutral running shoe while keeping it true to its sole, in the eighth edition. Its upper fabric is stripped down and bonded to lightweight mesh to achieve a more comfortable form fit with more space in the toe box. With the full-length EVERUN topsole for more energy return, you can expect to be flying pretty high yourself when you hit the pavement.

Featuring a full-length EVERUNTM topsole, the Saucony Kinvara 8 offers more energy return in every step. We've upgraded while keeping it true to its sole. This lightweight running shoe's form fit and breathable upper make it a go-to option for everyday comfort. This low-profile trainer has a breathable mesh upper, an updated sock liner, and an outsole with 4D flexibility design so you can run in comfort on any terrain.

New Balance's Vazee Prism v2 boasts a lightweight upper for elite speed, while the Nova Midsole provides support and comfort through impact. The shoe is designed for speed, fit and feel. These features make it a performance-driven running experience that will make you fearless on the track.
The New Balance Vazee Prism v2 is a more supportive, stable, and high-energy running shoe from New Balance. The shoe's unique outsole design uses strategically placed "windows" to increase flexibility where needed without compromising durability or ground feel.

The next generation of the Vazee Prism offers a dynamic fit that allows runners to feel stable and fluid in every step. Using lightweight support, the upper is constructed with an engineered mesh that offers a combination of breathability, flexibility, and support. The midsole features an IMEVA+ foam layer for a lightweight bounce back while maintaining soft cushioning qualities. Built with a FLYTEFOAM heel wedge to offer motion control and responsiveness under your feet. New Balance added carbon rubber at the toe and heel for durability on the court and natural grip on the footbed. For an elevated experience in lightweight performance running.


The Mirage 5 brings the same lightweight cushioning from the Guide with the bonus of good stability. The Mirage 5 blends light sock-like comfort with awesomely efficient guidance, resulting in a nimble neutral trainer that encourages you to run, jog and sprint at will. The Mirage 5’s rim offers a springy, responsive feeling that contributes to easy turnover on the ground or in the air.

Unleash your inner runner with the ultra-lightweight Saucony Mirage 5. This shoe is designed for efficient running in the 5th mile and has a sleek, durable upper for a fast race day in your favorite running events. Built from the same proven construction as our race-ready Guide, the sprint-friendly Mirage 5 is built around a lightweight midsole and delivers the instant responsiveness of Guidance Line to keep you out front. Our Team Sraflite midsole provides superior lightweight cushioning.
Mirage 5 is ready for fast miles, race day speed work, and everyday training runs to keep you poised to win.


Adidas Adizero Tempo sneakers are designed for the athlete on the go. This lightweight shoe is built to last, yet remains flexible, allowing for a smooth stride. Its full-length Boost midsole provides maximum energy return and cushioning, while its micro-adjustable strap ensures a customized fit. These shoes are light, responsive, and covered from heel to toe in protective Continental rubber. Designed for runners with a mid-to forefoot strike, a mix of mesh and synthetic leather offers comfort and great breathability, balancing the protection from the Continental rubber outsole. Most people run in neutral shoes, so, luckily, these shoes offer a stability element, unlike other shoes in their category.

The adizero Tempo is a running shoe that combines style and lightweight. Featuring a synthetic leather/suede upper, suede 3-Stripes, and rubber outsole details, Tempo is perfect for an active style. With a featherlight feel and a snug, adaptive fit, the adizero Tempo gives you the freedom to fly at top speed through every workout. Boasting an innovative upper design made from support-boosting, breathable knitted mesh, this shoe is designed to promote natural flexibility with each step.

The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 23 is designed to provide a supportive, speedy, and cushioned ride with an Adjustable Slit Upper for enhanced support and breathability. Featuring the new DuoSole outsole for an even smoother transition and an updated design, the GEL-DS Trainer 23 offers stability, flexibility, and durability in a lightweight running shoe that's unrivaled on your training runs.

This shoe is engineered to perform. Built with a new adjustable slit upper, the DS Trainer wraps and supports the foot while giving runners an inviting fit. It’s more lightweight than its predecessor and constructed with an updated dual sole system that provides traction and flexibility for a fast run. The GEL-DS Trainer 23 shoe is designed to enhance stability and support for hard distances. Featuring a new Adjustable Slit Upper that provides extra support and an updated DuoSole outsole for enhanced traction and flexibility, this shoe will help you perform your best.

The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 23 is engineered to perform by wrapping and supporting the foot with an updated Adjustable Slit Upper combined with an updated DuoSole outsole. This lightweight, speed-focused shoe builds on its predecessor's powerful reputation.


The Brooks Racer ST is designed to help you run fast and efficiently. The dual-density medial post, along with a liquid-filled hyropolymer in the heel cushioning, is engineered to reduce impact shock and disperse your energy as you hit the ground. The ride is smooth, so you can stay steady and keep moving forward.

These insoles are made for Brooks shoes but are also an excellent addition to any of your favorite trainers. The high-density posts are designed to provide full support for runners who overpronate. Features include extra cushioning for added comfort, maximum support in the arch, and fluid-filled heel cups to absorb impact in a smooth motion.

The Racer ST is the ultimate performance running shoe, combining maximum cushioning and smooth ride with a fast transition. Its unique design optimizes the foot-strike zone, for a smooth feel underfoot mile after mile. Brooks Racer ST shoes are designed to help you run stronger, faster, and more powerfully for longer by ensuring proper support and motion control.

From Amazon

Women's Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25

Shoekicker Best Price

See other prices we found

Complete results brought to you by Shoekicker

All prices for Women's Asics GEL-DS Trainer size

Learn more about the Women's Asics GEL-DS Trainer

Other popular running shoes