Best running shoes 2022 with running trainers from Adidas, Nike, ASICS and more

The best running shoes for jogging, training and racing reviewed and ranked by T3's running experts

best running shoes: Pictured here, three athletes running on a country road wearing the Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind 2
(Image credit: Under Armour)

The best running shoes – or best running trainers, as some people like to call them – are an essential piece of running gear. A decent pair of trainers can not only help you run faster but also reduce injury risk and, in some cases, improve running form. Besides, getting a new pair of running shoes can be an excellent motivator to start running for those who find it hard to muster up the energy to exercise.

Whether you're a beginner looking for your first pair of stability running shoes or a seasoned pro trying to replace your completely worn racing shoes with the best Nike running shoes, you'll find the best options here on what probably is the most comprehensive running shoes guide on the internet. At least according to us.

If you are looking for specialised running footwear, make sure you peruse the flowing guides: best women's running shoes for those interested in female-specific running footwear, best trail running shoes for off-road warriors and best waterproof running shoes to keep your feet dry when it's' absolutely pouring down outside.

And just for good measure, you might as well check out the best Brooks running shoe guide while you're at it. Because everyone loves their Glycerins and Ghosts. Also, don't make these three running shoe mistakes if you want to avoid injuries and discomfort. You've been warned.

How we test the best running shoes

By running in them, of course! Matt, T3's resident runner, and our other contributors meticulously analyse each shoe to ensure they are up to code. Some of the criteria that we check: step-in comfort, ergonomics, padding, cushioning, technology involved, design, aesthetics, and, of course, running dynamics.

We also verify manufacturer claims about performance details such as 'twice as fast as its predecessor' or 'improved heel lockdown', where applicable. If it's not possible, we'll refer to these features as 'manufacturer claims'. Another thing we'll examine is how to break in running shoes or if they need breaking in the first place.

It's worth mentioning that most people have different running styles, so running shoes that work for one runner might not work for another. Please keep this in mind when reading our reviews.

Best running shoes to buy right now

On Cloudmonster on the groundT3 Awards 2022 Winner's Badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat)
Best running shoes overall

Specifications

Weight: 294 grams (men's size 10 UK)
Drop: 6 mm
Best for: Road running, mid- to long distances (up to marathon)
Sizing: True to size (toe box a bit tight)

Reasons to buy

+
Softest On shoes to date
+
Looks sexy AF
+
Feels high quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Tight upper

The On Cloudmoster is a max cushioned, neutral road running shoe designed to carry you in comfort over long distances. It features the most amount of Cloud elements ever to be found in On shoes which is combined with the springy Speedboard, making the shoe an excellent choice for 10K+ runs.

Despite being the softest shoe On has to offer, the Cloudmoster isn't the softest running shoe; the CloudTec midsole is definitely firmer than Nike's Zoomx or Adidas' Boost technology. That said, the Cloudmonster is far from being uncomfortable, although the toe box could be roomier.

On designs shoes that are nice to look at and the Cloudmonster is no exception. The colours and over-the-top lettering make the shoes stand out from the crowd, especially compared to brands such as Brooks Running (Brooks has some cool shoes, too, just have a look a the Brooks Aurora-BL).

The On Cloudmoster is recommended for runners who prefer a bit of firmness and need some hip trainers for long-distance runs. Let the monster go the extra mile for you.

Read our full On Cloudmoster review

Just how good of a running shoe is the Cloudmonster? Well, it sure won the Best Running shoes category at the T3 Awards 2022!

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24 on a carpeted floorT3 Best Buy badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

2. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24

Best ASICS running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 324 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 10 mm
Best for: Long-distance running training, daily runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Soft, bouncy foam
+
So much comfort!
+
Upper is made with recycled materials (Finally!)
+
Great energy returns

Reasons to avoid

-
A bit on the heavy side

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24 is a max-cushioned everyday running trainer for people who need shoes not to look good on Instagram or show off in your running group but for running. These shoes are for pounding the pavement mile after mile in comfort, clocking up the miles and building strong legs. People who take running seriously and appreciate if their legs are in working order the day after a long session.

The combination of FF BLAST+ and FLYTEFOAM technologies, as well as rearfoot and forefoot Gel, make landings smooth and toe offs energetic enough to keep you going mile after mile. The engineered mesh upper and Ortholite sock liner create a cosy atmosphere in the shoes.

The Gel-Nimbus 24 is slightly more expensive than its predecessor, but it's also a tad bit lighter. Finally, ASICS also started using more sustainable materials in its shoes: the upper and the outsole of the Gel-Nimbus are now made of recycled materials (to some degree).

Do yourself a favour and invest in the Gel-Nimbus 24; your feet will thank you for it.

Read our full ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24 review

Adidas Solar Glide 5 detail shot among some ivy on a stone wallT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Adidas running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 353 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 10 mm
Best for: Slow long runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Well-cushioned daily trainer
+
Doubles up as a sneaker
+
Cheaper than the Ultraboost

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite heavy
-
Also rather bulky

We are inundated with max cushioned running shoes, one better than the other. Yet, the Adidas Solarglide 5 offers something familiar yet fresh – an exciting new re-start of a franchise that aims to replicate the success of the Ultraboost series.

As noted in our Adidas Solarglide 5 review, thanks to the Bubble Boost midsole, these max cushioned shoes are delightfully soft and energetic. The stack height has been increased slightly compared to its predecessor, which softens landings, and the weight has also increased – all the extra Boost! – but the overall performance of the shoes is very similar to what you'd expect of similarly built running trainers.

The L.E.P. torsion system makes the Solarglide 5 more accessible to beginner runners: it helps with foot placement, conserving energy and reducing the risk of injury.

Adidas has doubled down on its efforts to make the Solarglide 5 more sustainable; the yarn used for the upper now contains more recycled plastic.

Best of all, despite all the improvements, the Solarglide 5 costs the same as the Solarglide 4! Essentially, you get a new and updated Ultraboost-esque running shoe for a little bit over two-thirds of the price of the Ultraboost 22. What a bargain.

Browse our adidas discount codes to bag a saving on your purchase.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39T3 Award

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Nike running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 303 grams (men's UK 10)
Drop: No information available
Best for: Daily training
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Roomy but supportive toe box
+
Looks swish
+
Lightweight (compared to other daily trainers)
+
Great value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
We're yet to find any issues with these shoes

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a superb daily trainer for runners who don't mind their shoes looking fly.

Nike perfected the Pegasus formula by doubling the Air Zoom units, adding more React foam and including the Flywire technology for better lockdown. The outsole now has more rubber where needed and less where it's not necessary, reducing the overall weight down a notch.

The Pegasus 39 can be used for any type of running, but it enjoys itself the most at moderate paces; however, joggers will find it equally as comfortable to wear as people who run a bit faster.

Read our full Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 review

Brooks Hyperion Tempo on a bed of dried autumn leavesT3 Award

(Image credit: Matt Kollat)
Best Brooks running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 210 grams
Drop: 8 mm
Best for: Tempo runs, soft cushioning, mid-to long-distances
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
DNA Flash midsole is very responsive
+
Feather-light
+
Great for tempo runs
+
Sublime step-in comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Could be a bit prettier

As Brooks' Blue Line senior manager Nikhil Jain examined to me, the main aim of the Hyperion line – the Tempo is part of this – is to reduce 'deviation from the ideal stride' which in turn results in and better energy return and less fatigue, even after long runs.

Running in the Brooks Hyperion Tempo indeed feels light and responsive. The midsole is springy but not to a degree where it would hinder performance: my best attempt to characterise it would be to call it 'supportive bounce'. The nitrogen-infused DNA Flash midsole reduces impact force and accommodates a smoother transition from heel to toe. 

The upper has an excellent fit, not race tight but not loose either. The slits at the front of the woven upper allow air to enter, improving airflow in the shoes. This is to reduce swelling during long runs and improve comfort levels in general. A perfect everyday trainer overall.

How does the Hyperion Tempo stack up against the React Infinity Run 2? Find out in our versus article, aptly named Nike React Infinity Run 2 vs Brooks Hyperion Tempo.

Read our full Brooks Hyperion Tempo review

Nike ZoomX Streakfly T3 on tarmacT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Nike running shoes for shorter distances

Specifications

Weight: 185 grams (men's UK size 10)
Drop: 6 mm
Best for: Tempo runs, 5-10K races
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Pebax plate provides subtle propulsion
+
ZoomX is still one of the best foams out there
+
Less taxing on the legs than carbon shoes

Reasons to avoid

-
You want to use the shoes for tempo training and racing only
-
Admittedly less versatile than 'standard' training shoes

The Nike ZoomX Streakfly is a brilliant short distance running shoe. It's nimble, fast as hell and enables you to run fast without completely obliterating your legs in the process. If you can get hold of a pair, I recommend buying them ASAP.

A slight downside of the ZoomX Streakfly is that it should mainly be used for tempo runs and racing, not training in general. As resilient as the ZoomX foam is, after 400 or so miles, it might return less energy as on the day when you first put them on. If you're taking 5-10K races seriously, though, you won't be able to afford not to use the Nike ZoomX Streakfly.

Read our full Nike ZoomX Streakfly review

Puma Velocity Nitro 2 detail shot

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Puma running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 286 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 10 mm
Best for: Slow runs, daily runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Super comfortable
+
Lovely, soft daily trainer experience
+
Breathable upper over the toe box
+
Well-padded collar

Reasons to avoid

-
Foam too soft for optimal energy returns
-
Not an awful lot of updates
-
It gets dirty almost instantly

In our Puma Velocity Nitro 2 review, we said these are excellent daily trainers for slower runs. The Velocity Nitro 2 focuses on comfort and visibility and offers all its great features for an affordable price.

There have been some subtle technological updates since the first iteration of the shoes, and Puma seemingly paid more attention to ironing out the minor issues with ergonomics. Don't fix it if it ain't broke, right?

The shoes are especially well-suited for low-light conditions as they feature reflective strips in multiple areas. Wearing the Velocity Nitro 2 won't turn your legs into two shining beacons, but motorists will certainly be able to better notice you when you're out and about early morning.

You won't beat any PBs in the Velocity Nitro 2, but for recovery and slower, longer runs, there aren't many shoes we'd recommend more than this one.

ASICS METASPEED EDGE+ running shoes

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best ASICS running shoes for racing

Specifications

Weight: 233 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 8mm
Best for: long distance racing, fast training
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Lightning fast
+
More comfortable upper than predecessor
+
Positioning of the carbon plate tweaked for better energy returns

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive for a racing-only shoe
-
Not for complete beginners

The ASICS METASPEED EDGE+ has been completely revamped to help cadence-style runners run faster. The shoes have been designed for sub-3-hour marathon runners, but slower runners can also enjoy the speed boost the METASPEED EDGE+ provides.

The increased stack height and the position of the carbon plate make the EDGE+ a competent racing shoe for those who attend races in the hope of beating their PBs over the 26.2-mile distance. Some suggest the EDGE+ is more suited for half-marathon distances while the SKY+ is best for marathons; it’s probably the same difference unless you’re super fast.

The FF BLAST TUBRO foam is light and responsive, providing excellent energy return at any distance – and now there is more of it underfoot compared to the EDGE v1. The upper is more comfortable, and the laces are also different. Long story short, the ASICS METASPEED EDGE+ is an entirely different shoe than its predecessor but all in the right ways.

Read our full ASICS METASPEED EDGE+ review

Saucony Kinvara 12 on white backgroundT3 Award

(Image credit: Saucony)
Best Saucony running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 238 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 4mm (heel 28.5 mm / toe 24.5 mm)
Best for: fast training, tempo runs, interval training
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight
+
Exceptional maneuverability
+
Sublime ground contact feel

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the coolest looking shoes

There is very little to criticise about the Saucony Kinvara 12. Some might say that the Bright Future Collection went a bit over the top with the colours: a T3 staff member described the shoes using the term "colourful number", and I couldn't agree more.

That aside, the Kinvara 12 delivers an almost flawless running experience: all the tech Saucony has to offer – including the PWRRUN midsole and the FORMFIT upper – work together seamlessly to provide a snappy running experience.

The Kinvara 12 is as comfortable as a tempo trainer needs to be. The toe box is roomy but not loose, and the heels are locked in properly without them feeling restricted. The shoes feel breathable and responsive, raring to go whenever you're ready. In your own time, people. Whether you are a beginner runner who wants to get faster or a pro who knows what they are doing, chances are you'll train faster in the Kinvara 12.

Read our full Saucony Kinvara 12 review

Hoka one one Mach 4 on white backgroundT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Hoka One One)
Best Hoka running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 192 grams (women), 232 grams (men)
Drop: 5 mm
Best for: Daily runs, long runs, training
Sizing: True to size (a bit on the tight side)

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight, considering all the tech included
+
Smooth and soft ride

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacks the firmness of carbon plates
-
Rubberised foam outsole may not last as long

The Hoka One One Mach 4 running shoes have a luxurious feel with extra padding and ventilation holes. The Profly midsole feels both soft and springy, so you get a double whammy of cushioning and a firm toe-off, making the Mach 4 one of the most adaptable shoes around.

When your running shoes are as versatile as the Mach 4, you can run long in them and rely on them to look after your legs, as well as take on tempo or harder sessions without losing that fast feeling. The shoes remain springy despite all the cushioning that's under your feet, making the Mach 4 the perfect option for fast training days.

Some other running shoes with carbon plates might feel too firm for some, and if you're one of those people and want some softness without a squidgy feeling, you should definitely opt for the Mach 4. We strongly suggest that you put these very near the top of your next potential shoe purchase list.

Read our full Hoka One One Mach 4 review

Adidas 4DFWD on a shoeboxT3 Awards 2021 winner badge

(Image credit: Future)
Best running shoes for innovation

Specifications

Weight: 370 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 11.3 mm
Best for: Tempo runs, long runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
3D-printed midsole is not only cool but also responsive
+
Excellent ground contact feel
+
You're in control of your stride
+
Allows for speed

Reasons to avoid

-
Somewhat heavy

The Adidas 4DFWD is not the cheapest running trainer, and admittedly, the limited drop nature of the initial release won't help make these the go-to shoes for most runners. Nevertheless, we'd highly recommend getting a pair if you have the chance, as the 4DFWD represents the next step in running shoe evolution.

As well as that and in line with Adidas' efforts to reduce plastic waste, the 4DFWD is not a bad choice for environmentally conscious runners. Don't get me wrong, buying a pair of running shoes won't save the planet, but if you have to buy new running shoes, you might as well get a pair from a manufacturer that pays some attention to environmental friendliness. Adidas at least tries to make a difference, which is admirable.

All things considered, the Adidas 4DFWD are great running shoes, probably the best running shoes from Adidas at the moment for runners who are looking for something a bit more serious than the Ultraboost 21 but less sporty than the Adizero Adios Pro. And taking into account the normal distribution curve, that's the majority of the runners.

The Adidas 4DFWD was crowned 'Best Running Shoes' at the T3 Awards 2021!

Read our full Adidas 4DFWD review

Close up shot of the Hoka Kawana running shoesT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best running shoes for everyday training

Specifications

Weight: 323 grams (men's UK size 10)
Drop: 5 mm
Best for: everyday training and cardio workouts
Sizing: True to size (somwhat tight)

Reasons to buy

+
Brilliant everyday trainer
+
Responsive foam
+
Reduced stack height might make the shoes more appealing to non-diehard Hoka fans
+
Versatile (can be used for running and fitness)

Reasons to avoid

-
Some might find it too tight
-
SwallowTail works fine but it's not a mind-blowing innovation

Thanks to its responsive foam and snug fit, the hybrid fitness shoe Hoka Kawana can be used for light cardio training but it's even better suited for running training, whether it's jogging or something a bit faster.

Considering the shape of the shoes and the technology involved, the Kawana is still very much a running shoe that can also be used for other types of exercise. In this sense, it's not all that different from other everyday trainers on the market that can also be used for cardio training.

The main differentiator of the Kawana is that it's easier on the eyes than some other running trainers. If you don't mind not looking super stylish, feel free to choose the trainers recommended below.

Read our full Hoka Kawana review

Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% on some steps outsideT3 Award

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
The best running shoes for pure speed

Specifications

Weight: 190 grams (men's size 9)
Drop: 8 mm
Best for: Quick runners doing long distances
Sizing: Go half size up

Reasons to buy

+
Blisteringly fast
+
Supreme cushioning and energy return

Reasons to avoid

-
You'll want to wrap them in cotton wool between races (a.k.a. racing only shoes)

What makes the ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% so effective (and controversial)? Nike threw everything it knew about running shoes out of the window when designing the Vaporfly series. What they came up with might just be the most peculiar-looking road running shoes in existence, but one that gives runners near perfect running dynamics.

There are three critical elements to the design of the Vaporfly NEXT%: the updated ZoomX foam that provides a soft landing without wasting energy on the ground, the full-length carbon plate embedded in the midsole that enables you to turn that landing energy to forward momentum and the VaporWeave upper that helps the shoes fit near perfect on your feet.

One downside is, considering that the cushioning won't be able to perform at 100% efficiency forever, you are looking at spending a lot of money for road running shoes you will probably wear a few times a year. My opinion? It's still worth it.

Read our full Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% review

New Balance FuelCell RC Elite v2 on white backgroundT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: New Balance)

14. New Balance FuelCell RC Elite v2

Best New Balance running shoes for racing

Specifications

Weight: 237 grams (men's 10.5 UK)
Drop: 10 mm
Best for: long runs, especially marathon-distance races
Sizing: Go half size up

Reasons to buy

+
New Balance signature soft cushioning
+
Comfortable upper
+
Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Not for everyday use
-
Traction is not the best

I love these shoes as they are comfortable, fast and look wicked. New Balance is famous for its soft cushioned shoes, and the FuelCell RC Elite v2 really hits the nail on the head with that.

The integrated carbon plate does its job perfectly, and the combination of the soft foam and the carbon plate ensures a sublime racing experience. This plush running escapade is further enhanced by the breathable knit upper that not only does what it says on the box – let's air in and out of the shoes – but also looks sexy AF.

The refined upper feels even more supportive than the one found on the shoe's predecessor. The outsole has also been updated too, and instead of featuring those little rubber triangles that may or may not provide grip, the FuelCell RC Elite v2 now has a lovely, coloured outsole that still doesn't offer the best traction on the market, but at least it's somewhat better than how it used to be.

Under Armour FLOW Velociti Wind 2 put against a garden wallT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Under Armour running shoes

Specifications

Weight: 262 grams (men's size 10 UK)
Drop: 8 mm
Best for: Fast runs, short- to mid-distance runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight construction
+
Race-tight fit
+
Connects to the MapMyRun App via Bluetooth
+
Quiet to run in

Reasons to avoid

-
It might not be worth the update if you already have the first iteration of the shoes
-
Firm cushioning might be off-putting for some

The Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind 2 is an iteration of the original concept, not a revolution. The Tatami Stitched heel, the new sockliner and the weight reduction all bring minor changes to the shoe that's still very much a firm and light running trainer.

The biggest question UA needs to ask itself is who should wear the flow Velociti Wind 2? Is it for racing or fast training? The firmness puts more strain on the legs, so we can safely assume the shoes are not to replace long-distance marathon racing shoes such as the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% or the On Cloudboom Echo. 

Is it for training? It's a bit too firm for that. Taking this firmness into consideration, I can imagine the Flow Velociti Wind 2 remarketed eventually as a racing flat; all UA has to do is reduce the drop of the shoes, and it's good to go.

The Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind 2 is an excellent running shoe, as long as you accept its qualities and approach it with caution. Beginners might find the shoes too firm and tight but runners who want to move away from the softness will like the Flow Velociti Wind 2.

Read our full Under Armour FLOW Velociti Wind 2 review

ASICS Metaracer in front of a garden wallT3 Award

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best ASICS running shoes for racing

Specifications

Weight: 250 grams (men's UK10)
Drop: 9 mm (24/15 mm)
Best for: mid-to long distance races, tempo runs
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent ground-contact
+
FlyteFoam compliments carbon-plate well
+
Breathable

Reasons to avoid

-
Not enough support for beginner runners

The ASICS Metaracer is a brilliant road running shoe that combines sublime ground contact feel, impact force reduction and dynamic propulsion to create the best ASICS running shoe I tested in 2020 (maybe even 2019).

The FlyteFoam midsole is soft under the heels and lets you steer your feet effectively, while the embedded carbon plate at the forefoot pushes you forward as you effortlessly cruise through your long-distance runs; let it be a race or a tempo run.

The engineered mesh upper is flexible, following the foot's contour closely. Despite the minimal padding of these shoes, the Metaracer is comfortable to wear, and there is no sign of rubbing anywhere, even after long distances. For the record, I haven't done a marathon distance in the shoes (in one go anyway).

All this running goodness comes assembled in an attractive package, with bright colours and a chunky-looking midsole that's further emphasised due to the contrast between the off-white sole and the bright-red upper.

These shoes are made for running, and you will want to run in them as soon as you put them on. They might not be cheap, but the ASICS Metaracer is worth the price and will delight your feet as well as make you faster on the road.

Although they provide entirely different running dynamics, the ASICS Metaracer is often compared to the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%, one of the most popular racing shoes ever to exist. Which is faster, and which one is better for more experienced runners? We discuss it all here: Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% vs ASICS Metaracer

Read our full ASICS Metaracer review

On Cloudflow on white backgroundT3 Award

(Image credit: On Running)
Best On running shoes for short distances

Specifications

Weight: 235 grams
Drop: 6 mm
Best for: Threshold runs, racing, anything between 10km and a marathon
Sizing: True to size

Reasons to buy

+
Great cushioning
+
Amazing looks
+
Light and comfortable

Reasons to avoid

-
You won't want to get them dirty
-
For relatively good weather only

The latest update on the Cloudflow brings the Helion sole tech to this model: On's 'superfoam' delivers a soft yet responsive running experience, regardless of the temperature, giving you the same dynamics all year around.

The Helion works hard to reduce impact force as you land, while the Cloud elements at the front help you lift off the ground more easily and efficiently. Does this combination work? It does, and brilliantly so.

The upper is a low-profile mesh that holds your feet in the right places and feels top quality too. Not to mention, the design of the shoes is pretty amazing: not often do you see such an eye-popping design in full-fledged running shoes.

Probably the biggest issue with the On Cloudflow is its looks: you won't want to get it dirty and run around in puddles, fearing the shoe might lose its box-fresh look. Of course, you can go for the black colourway, but with such great colour gradients available, why would you?

Read our full On Cloudflow review

On Cloudboom Echo on white backgroundT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: On Running)

18. On Cloudboom Echo

Best On running shoes for long-distance running

Specifications

Weight: 240 grams (men's size 10 UK)
Drop: 9 mm
Best for: Long distance racing, tempo runs
Sizing: True to size (tight)

Reasons to buy

+
Less tight than its predecessor
+
100% recycled upper
+
Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Firm midsole
-
Runners with wide feet might find it too tight

I remember when the OG On Cloudboom was announced: it promised to be a fast and firm running shoe, two things I like about racing shoes. Unfortunately, the shoes ended up being too tight and too firm to be actually useful, which is a massive shame.

Luckily, On learned from the mistakes of the Cloudboom, and I can see the evidence of this tweaking in the On Cloudboom Echo. It's still firm and tight but doesn't overdo either of these qualities. That said, it's still on the firm side, so if you're not a seasoned runner, running with the Helion 'super foam' might feel uncomfortable at first. Strike that; it will feel uncomfortable at first.

It's not like On wasn't famous for its firm running shoes even before the Cloudboom Echo was released. Back in the day, naive old me thought that just because a midsole was named 'CloudTec', it meant the shoes would be soft to run in. Boy, how wrong I was!

Firmness aside, the On Cloudboom Echo is an excellent racing shoe for those who prefer a stiffer ride. As much as I love soft, high-stack running shoes, running in the Cloudboom Echo felt a little less demanding on the shins as they worked a little on stabilising the legs on landing.

The slight downside of the firmness is that it's hard to utilise the energy return of the Carbon Speedplate, similar to how it's not easy to feel the rebound when running in the also firm Saucony Endorphin Pro.

At least the On Cloudboom Echo is a bit more environmentally friendly: the upper is made of 100% recycled material.

A group of people running in the street wearing Puma running shoes

(Image credit: Puma)

How to buy the right running shoes

With so many different types of running shoes available to buy, it's no wonder one can feel completely overwhelmed just by thinking about getting a new running trainer. To make a decision at least a little bit easier, we collected a few pointers that might help you when buying a new pair of shoes.

Have your gait analysed: you can do this in a brick and mortar running shoe shop or work it out yourself by performing the classic 'stepping on a piece of paper with wet feet' test. There is also the NURVV running insole that can tell you exactly how much you pronate.

Be mindful of sizing: not all running shoe sizes are created equal. Some brands are infamous for their sizing methods; for example, New Balance shoes tend to be half a size under, so if you wear a size 10 normally, you might want to get a size 10.5 New Balance. Also, racing shoes are usually tighter than trainers. The best women's running shoes may also be narrower and lighter than unisex or men's options.

Take the running surface into account: obviously, you need different shoes for the tarmac and the trail. That said, some shoes will perform well on all sorts of terrain, such as the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail, while others will excel on one more than on the other.

Go the distance (or not): if you prefer shorter distances (5K-10K), you won't need industrial amounts of cushioning under your feet. For mid-distances (10K-half marathon), you might want to think about having more support and a durable upper to keep your feet in line when your form falls apart at mile 19. As for long distances (anything over a half-marathon distance), you want running shoes with great energy returns yet lightweight and responsive.

Have a purpose in mind: there is no point getting a Nike Vaporfly if you don't race, and it is equally as silly to get a Brooks Glycerin for high-performance runs. If you're planning on having only one pair of running shoes, make sure you keep in mind the main principle you will use them for and make a purchase accordingly.

Use running shoes for running: it is tempting to have just one pair of shoes for road running, trail running and workouts. We recommend using the appropriate shoes for all occasions. The best trail running shoes will protect your feet when running on uneven terrain, while the best workout shoes will provide grip and stability in the gym. 

Running shoes vs trail running shoes: what's the difference?

For the unacquainted, running shoes and trail running shoes can look pretty similar: similar enough to think they are interchangeable and work well on both the road and the trail. In reality, both types have specific characteristics that make them perfect for the running surface they were designed for and not-so-great for others.

Take running trainers, for example. These shoes work best when used on hard, smooth surfaces, such as the road: the cushioning is fine-tuned to reduce the impact force when landing on the tarmac, and the upper is tight to keep the foot 'locked in' as you run. The 'stack height of most running shoes is also higher, especially nowadays, to improve energy returns. The outsole also tends to be smoother to increase the surface area of the shoes for better grip.

On the other hand, trail running shoes thrive on uneven surfaces. Off-road shoes have massive lugs on the outsole to claw into soft surfaces (e.g. mud, grass) and usually have an insert in the midsole to protect the feet from rocks and other unexpected obstructions (this insert is aptly named 'rock-shield'). And since the trail is more often slippery and wet than the road, trail shoes have better weather protection and are also heavier in general than road shoes.

To provide an analogue, road shoes are racing cars with their light chassis and fast ergonomics, while trail shoes are 4x4s: robust and heavy but will keep you safe in the forest. Before you buy new running shoes, consider where you will use them the most to avoid disappointment (and injuries) later on.

Is it worth buying expensive running shoes?

Just because a pair of running shoes is expensive, that doesn't mean they are good. That said, cheap running shoes seldom deliver a running experience you might expect from decent running footwear.

What's cheap? If you're taking running training seriously, we would recommend spending around $/£100 on a new pair of running shoes. This might sound quite a lot at first, but running shoes in this category won't fall apart after a few runs and will support your feet for a few years at least.

Is it bad to run without running shoes?

Barefoot running is gaining momentum, especially among athletes who think modern running shoes are detrimental to foot health. Truth to be told, high stack, carbon plate-enhanced running shoes indeed force runners to run in a particular way which might not be the most ideal for at least some percentage of runners out there.

That said, running barefoot takes some getting used to, especially if you usually wear cushioned shoes. Even big-name barefoot brands such as Vivobarefoot (opens in new tab) recommend easing yourself into barefoot running as it requires you to move very differently compared to when you run in cushioned shoes.

It's recommended to start running shorter distances – as in a couple of hundred meters – at first, then gradually increasing the distance as you get more comfortable. It's also beneficial to run on softer surfaces such as grass or sandy beach at first, as these might mitigate impact force better than landing hard on tarmac.

As for running in sneakers, these shoes lack support and cushioning, and by running in them, you can end up hurting your feet more than running barefoot.

In sneakers, just like in running shoes, your sole is far away from the ground. However, the thick foam doesn't provide anatomical support (as in the case of running shoes). If anything, it prevents you from being able to stabilise your body yourself, which will confuse and tire out muscles.

Matt is T3's Fitness Editor and covers everything from smart fitness tech to running and workout shoes, home gym equipment, exercise how-tos, nutrition, cycling, and more. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and he collaborated with other fitness content creators such as Garage Gym reviews.