The Best Running Shoes of 2024

The moment you start looking for a new running shoe, you may be surprised by the large number of options available. From daily trainers to racing shoes, fast runs shoes to max cushion cruisers, identifying the right shoe for your needs may feel like a daunting task. Regardless, there is no need to worry! Our guide below breaks down the best running shoes for every type of run to help make your choice easy.

We recommend thinking of shopping for new running shoes in the same way you would shop for tools at a hardware store. It's not a matter of what tool looks the coolest or how much it is, right? The goal is to find the tool that meets the specific needs of the project you're working on. The same philosophy should apply to running shoes! To choose the right running shoe, it's important to know what you'll be using them for. How often do you run? Where do you run? If your favourite route takes you on a lot of trails or you simply prefer trail running, then consider trail shoes. If you're training for a race and looking for the latest and greatest shoe tech, then consider a carbon-plated racing shoe. Are you open to buying multiple pairs? The answers to these questions will help narrow your search and lead you to your new favourite running tool.

Once you identify the right shoe for you, it's also vital that you choose the correct size. Ensuring a comfortable fit is a huge factor when it comes to enjoying running and staying injury free. Whether you're shopping in our retail store or on our website, take the time to make sure you're getting the right fit, as every shoe fits differently. And if you're wondering how you can get a proper fit while shopping online, we've got you covered. Head on over to our fit guide on how to choose the right size.

Every year our team of experts tests and reviews all the newest running shoes in order to discover the latest and greatest options available. From neutral running shoes to stability shoes, road racing to trail running shoes, we have tested them all so you don't have to. After putting in the miles, we huddle together and curate our "best of" lists with the hopes of getting you into the perfect pair of shoes for your next run.

From uptempo runs to recovery days, this shoe can do it all and do it all very well. After careful consideration and much deliberation, our staff kept returning to the one shoe that rules them all.

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For reliable everyday comfort, the HOKA Clifton has been a model of consistency for years, and the ninth version carries on that legacy while adding an additional 3 mm of stack height. The HOKA Clifton 9 is notable for its fantastic weight-to-cushion ratio and early-stage meta-rocker design, allowing for a smooth heel-to-toe transition as you rack up the miles. We found the Clifton 9 versatile enough to walk in or take to the gym, but where these shoes truly shine are in those daily easy miles. Since most of our runs fall into the easy category, having a go-to shoe like the Clifton 9 is a necessity, and at Running Warehouse, they're in heavy rotation.

In this category, we're zeroing in on shoes that we consider to be our everyday workhorse—the ones that we log most of our daily mileage in. Whether you feel like a quick 30-minute jog around town or you're training for a race and need to get in 20 miles, these shoes will help you get the job done in comfort.

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Coming in hot in this category is a shoe that will not only satisfy your need for speed but will do so in style. Enter the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4. The Endorphin Speed has been a staff favourite since its first introduction a few years ago, and our love has grown with each iteration. Highlighting this version is an added stack of one of our favourite midsole foams, PWRRUN PB, and a nylon plate that utilises a winged geometry to improve stability. The PWRRUN PB foam midsole is as resilient as ever and delivers the energetic and efficient ride we need during hard efforts. The added stability provided by the winged geometry and FORMFIT upper makes this shoe versatile enough to handle daily miles as well.

For speed and tempo workouts, you need a lightweight shoe to help you reach those breakneck speeds while still providing enough support and protection to prevent injuries. Here are our picks that do precisely that.

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Some shoes feel too firm, some feel too soft, and some feel just right. This is the Goldilocks category in terms of comfort and our top option if you are looking for a premium experience from start to finish.

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The Saucony Triumph has embodied premium everyday comfort for years, and we were pleased to see that trend continue in the revamped 22nd iteration. The PWRRUN PB super foam in the midsole continues to make the Triumph more responsive and more sustainable than ever. Long, easy efforts in the Triumph 22 feel like being on cruise control; just let these shoes do the work while you enjoy the views. Additionally, the improved upper provides a breathable fit, enhancing overall comfort during extended runs or walks. If you're looking for a highly cushioned, cloud-like underfoot experience on your daily runs and longer efforts, the Saucony Triumph 22 is an excellent option.

We get it, $300+ running shoes aren't for everyone. Some runners just want a quality shoe to get the job done without breaking the bank. Don't worry; we've got you covered!

If you want the experience of a shoe with top-of-the-line technology without breaking the bank, look no further than the Li-Ning Feidian Challenger 4. Featuring a lightweight and bouncy BOOM midsole paired with a carbon fibre plate, the Challenger 4 feels like a shoe that has a much higher price tag than $200. We love it when brands find a way to stand out from the rest, so we have to commend Li-Ning for delivering a shoe with this type of technology at an affordable price.

As the market starts to trend further toward neutral shoes that offer inherent stability for overpronators, some staples will continue to live long and prosper. Here are our top picks.

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Due to the performance benefits that many runners experience in super shoes, there is a desire to chase that feeling every day, not just race day. However, most super shoes do not have the durability or plush comfort to handle a demanding training cycle. Thankfully, several brands have filled the gap by delivering shoes that possess many of the qualities that runners love in a super shoe, but with the durability and comfort needed to rack up the miles.

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Carbon fibre-plated running shoes have ruled the marathon racing scene for the past few years thanks to their highly efficient design, and the trend is not stopping anytime soon. These shoes represent the best of the elite-level racing options. Looking for a racing shoe? Check out our guide to The Best Carbon-Plated Shoes.

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When it comes to the design and build of a super shoe, ASICS has the magic touch. The FF TURBO PLUS foam which delivers an ultra-responsive and highly cushioned ride that keeps legs feeling fast and fresh for the entirety of the marathon. Our staff loves how lightweight and resilient the FF TURBO PLUS foam feels underfoot and how well it works with the carbon plate to propel the foot forward. The overall fit is fantastic, thanks to the MOTION WRAP 2.0 upper, providing a snug and comfortable fit from start to finish, making the Metaspeed Paris our choice for the best racing shoe.

When it's time to hit the dirt, you'll need something a bit more rugged. With grippy outsoles, tougher uppers, and hazard-ready midsoles, the following shoes have what you need to comfortably tackle the unforgiving wilderness. We've outlined two of our favourite all-around trail running shoes that we feel confident any runner can enjoy, but if you're looking for more trail shoe options, check out our guide to The Best Trail Running Shoes.

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The HOKA Challenger is a beloved favourite among trail enthusiasts. Well known for its plush comfort and versatile performance, this latest version continues to impress with updates that cater to road-to-trail runners and loyal HOKA fans alike. The Challenger 7 prioritises comfort and protection, making it ideal for long, easy trail runs or seamless transitions from road to trail. Featuring a softer CMEVA midsole and HOKA's signature rocker geometry, the ride remains smooth and enjoyable, perfect for maintaining a steady pace over varied terrain. With its new Durabrasion outsole rubber and redesigned lug pattern, the HOKA Challenger 7 is a highly versatile shoe ready to tackle any terrain.

The shoes in this category are for those looking for a running shoe that will also feel comfortable and stable in the gym. These are great options for runners who want a shoe that can go from daily jogs to the treadmill to your next HIIT workout.

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The On Cloud X 3 is a neutral running shoe that is ready to fit your performance and lifestyle needs. Comfort is key, and this shoe will unlock a pleasurable experience whether you're exploring the sights and sounds of a new city, getting in that HIIT workout, or headed out for a quick run. Equipped with On's signature CloudTec cushioning and Speedboard in the midsole of the shoe, runners will experience a smooth landing, but also an energetic return that propels them forward. A wide platform and larger Cloud pods offers cushioning that makes every step comfortable. Additionally, the upper has been re-engineered to feature a 3-layer mesh that offers an excellent fit and high breathability. When the daily calendar is chock-full of activities, the Cloud X 3 is ready to get the job done.

You might be surprised to hear that just because a running shoe is great for running does not mean it's great for walking. Wear the Nike Vaporfly at a marathon, and you're looking at a personal best. Wear the Nike Vaporfly while walking your dog, and you're looking at a rolled ankle. The shoes in this category are built for running, but will be awesome for everyday errands and morning coffee walks with friends.

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If you're searching for all-day comfort, whether running for miles or taking a brisk walk, look no further than the HOKA Bondi 8. This max-cushioned daily trainer feels fantastic on the legs, and we kept lacing them up on our recovery runs this year. But don't stop the recovery process at the end of the run; keep those legs protected and wear these wherever your day takes you. Whether walking the pups, pushing the stroller, or grocery shopping, pamper your feet with the luxurious comfort of the Bondi 8.

How often should I replace my running shoes?

There are a number of signs that tell you whether it's time to replace your current running shoes. How many miles are on them? How do they feel during your runs? For a detailed answer, check out this article.

How much should I spend on running shoes?

The amount you spend on running shoes is dependent upon a lot of factors, such as your budget, how often you run, and whether you have injury concerns. The shoes that made this year's list range anywhere from $200 to $400.

How many pairs of running shoes should I have?

If you're the type of runner who runs most days of the week, has multiple races on the calendar, or loves to mix it up on the trails, then it sounds like a running rotation is right for you! However, if you would rather have one shoe that can handle all of your training and racing needs, consider a do-it-all shoe such as the ASICS Superblast, ASICS Novablast, or HOKA Clifton.