The Most Versatile Running Shoes

The adidas adizero adios 6 is a world-famous road racing shoe that continues to be a competitive plateless racer with its latest upgrade. Complete with adidas’ most innovative and responsive foam, the adios 6 is known for being a go-to choice for workouts, races, or any faster-paced efforts. This shoe can be laced up by anyone from elite athletes to intermediate racers.

Adidas has revamped the adios and equipped it with their most competitive cushioning technology making this shoe faster than ever. The adios 6 has a top sole consisting of adidas' soft and efficient Lightstrike Pro compound, which is placed over a firmer and peppy Lightstrike midsole. Basically, this shoe is everything that runners look for in versatility in 2021, making it an easy recommendation for the runner who wants a go-to shoe that can truly do it all.

Cushioning technology in running shoes has taken a giant leap forward in the past few years, and the Endorphin Speed 2 is a shining example of just how far things have come. Featuring Saucony's super-responsive PWRRUN PB foam and a lightweight mesh upper, this shoe delivers as one of the best options for any run. Runners can add it to their arsenal of workout and racing shoes, but thanks to the high level of cushioning underfoot, they can also rely on it to handle the daily miles in their training plan.

The Endorphin Speed 2 can easily pick up the pace since it has a semi-rigid nylon plate inside of a responsive, rocker-shaped midsole, however, this shoe can also withstand daily training with its durable yet lightweight rubber outsole and high stack height.

The Skechers GOrun Razor Excess is the upgrade that runners need when searching for a versatile shoe. Skechers' HYPER BURST cushioning offers a highly responsive feel yet highly cushioned feel, allowing you to pick up the pace effortlessly. Skechers also added a Goodyear rubber outsole for better traction and durability over the lifespan of the shoe. Overall, the comfort and pop that the GOrun Razor Excess provides can help any runner move faster and go farther.

From ultramarathon racing to leisurely trail days, the HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 is ready for any adventure. HOKA combines its top-of-the-line cushioning with Meta-Rocker geometry for a smooth and efficient ride. This means that the Speedgoat will save your legs during longer runs and encourage efficiency with each step. The upper is also strong and light, ensuring that it can hold up to even the most technical terrain.

The Speedgoat's outsole features Vibram Megagrip with 5-mm lugs for increased traction in any conditions, along with flex grooves to help runners move freely on technical trails. It's no wonder that the Speedgoat 4 continues to be one of the most popular options for trail runners looking for a shoe that can cruise through ultramarathons, training days, or leisurely trail runs.

Over the past few years, the Altra Lone Peak has made a name for itself as a favorite among many runners and hikers. This shoe’s range and utility allow athletes to use it for hiking, daily training on the trails, and even longer trail races. Now featuring Altra Ego cushioning, this updated model offers a peppy and soft foam that is durable enough for endless miles. As with other Altra models, the Lone Peak 5 maintains a wide toe box and 0-mm heel-toe drop, which makes it a unique option for runners looking to do a little bit of everything on the trails.

The HOKA Challenger ATR ranks high on the list of versatile shoes since it can tackle paved roads just as well as fire roads and light trails. Runners can also lace up this model for ultramarathons if they favor cushioning and protection over pure speed and responsiveness.

The Challenger features HOKA's lightweight EVA foam to keep you nimble throughout your miles. Additionally, the outsole lugs are slightly shorter, which makes them more comfortable on pavement but still grippy enough to tackle the dirt.