Running Sneaker Guide – 2024: From legendary pairs to ultra-news, 25 options

Sportmaster PRO expert

“Approach the choice of running shoes should be responsible. It depends not only on comfort during training, but also the health of the legs, joints, knees and the entire body. If you can run in the old equipment, it is better not to save on good quality shoes. I tell you what models are available, how to choose your ideal pair and what else to look for.

Why do you need running shoes?

Ordinary sneakers are not suitable for running. You need to choose special shoes designed specifically for this type of activity. What criteria should you pay attention to?

Cushioning

Cushioning is almost the most important parameter for running shoes. During training, the foot experiences a shock load. High-quality cushioning allows you to soften it so that your movements are comfortable and safe.

There are many sneakers with cushioning properties. They can be very soft or, on the contrary, more rigid. When choosing, focus on your weight. The higher it is, the stronger the impact load, which means that the shock absorption should be more effective.

Also pay attention to your technique. If you run with a heel-to-toe stance, it’s especially important to choose sneakers with the right cushioning. The bones and joints in this area are not designed for this kind of stress. With this running technique, it is important to cushion the impact in the heel area. Unlike, for example, the forefoot. Here, nature itself has provided a springy ligamentous-muscular apparatus.

When running “from the toe” sneakers with soft voluminous sole part can be uncomfortable. Therefore, some manufacturers even produce special models for natural running. They are distinguished by a thinner sole and very light cushioning.

Foot support

Another important element of running, and in general any sports sneakers is the correct support of the foot arch. Unsuitable shoes can cause discomfort or lead to injury. Therefore, sneakers should be selected individually, especially if you have an atypical foot. For example, with hyperpronation. In this case, special sneakers or orthopedic insoles will suit you. They will compensate for the uneven load, and your feet will be comfortable in the shoes.

In many specialized sports stores, you can take a running test before buying. It will show you what kind of sneakers you need. Don’t neglect the opportunity to get detailed professional information about your running type and foot pronation.

Breathable materials

Ventilation is another important parameter for running shoes. As a rule, manufacturers use durable meshes, perforated inserts, knitted fabrics, sometimes membranes and other technological materials. They allow the skin to breathe, and you – to train in comfort.

Also, an athlete can not do without special running socks. They provide additional ventilation due to the fact that they are made of breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics. In addition, running socks ergonomically fit the foot without rolling and rubbing the skin.

Top 10 Best Running Sneakers

Now on the market there are so many different manufacturers that offer excellent models of running sneakers for any task, taste and wallet. Each brand has its own features. Therefore, to say that some sneakers are better and others are worse is not quite right. To choose your ideal pair in any case, you need to individually.

But here are a few options – from legendary models to ultra-news – that you can pay attention to.

Nike Pegasus Zoom Air

Pegasus is a running classic from the Nike brand. There are sneakers for different types of activity in this lineup. You can find shoes for training in the city park or trailrunning, that is, running on rough terrain.

A feature of all Pegasus is responsive cushioning. It provides elasticity for any running technique. This is achieved through the use of React foam in the sole with thin air cushions made of compressed gas.

The sneakers are made with Zoom Air’s proprietary technology. The padded cuffs, tongue and insole provide a comfortable fit, while the modernized midfoot provides a safer and more comfortable running experience.

Nike Pegasus Zoom Air sneakers, 18,932 RUB.

adidas Ultraboost

The legendary Ultraboost sneakers are redesigned for maximum comfort when running any distance. Cushioning is provided by the lightweight, revolutionary Light Boost midsole. It consists of hundreds of small air capsules.

The outsole efficiently handles shock loads and returns even more energy. LEP 2.0 technology provides additional stability in the forefoot and rearfoot. The durable Continental rubber outsole guarantees reliable traction on both dry and wet surfaces.

adidas Ultraboost Light Earth Day Sneakers, RUB 29,699.

Asics Gel-Nimbus

Another classic of the running genre that has remained the brand’s trademark for 20 years. It was Asics that first developed gel cushions. They changed the world of running shoes forever.

Flytefoam Blast and Pure Gel technologies combine for cushioning, providing lightness combined with softness. The FluidFit 2.0 system gives you a customized fit and maximum comfort during your run.

Breathable materials keep the foot warm even under intense exertion. The Ortholite insole with antibacterial effect reduces the growth rate of odor-causing bacteria.

Asics Gel-Nimbus sneakers, 19,459 RUB.

New Balance Fresh Foam

A unique model in a way, because it is characterized by dual functionality. You can go for a jog and then go about your business.

The Fresh Foam X outsole with its enhanced Fresh Foam X technology, made up of clusters of different densities, maintains a high degree of cushioning on all types of surfaces. It is also lightweight.

The molded midsole provides foot stabilization. This is especially important during intensive running activities. The elastic breathable materials are made without seams so that the sneakers do not press or chafe.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road Sneakers, 10,499 RUB.

Brooks Ghost

Brooks Ghost 15 sneakers are smooth, balanced and extremely cushioned. DNA Loft v2 cushioning technology provides responsive and dynamic cushioning, helping to soften impact forces and distribute the athlete’s weight evenly across the entire length of the foot. The sneaker’s mesh upper and 3D Fit Print screen printing technology ensure optimal ventilation.

Brooks Ghost 15 sneakers, RUB 18,899.

Xtep Running Shoes

Xtep started out by creating athletic shoes for adidas. But since 2002, the company has been working on its own development and testing innovative materials.

Recently, Xtep has released a new collection of technological running shoes. They are suitable for amateur training or training for half-marathons. Their main qualities are enhanced cushioning combined with lightweight and versatile design.

The key technology of Xtep ACE is the world’s first PISA supercritical foam system. It provides excellent cushioning and up to 70% energy return during training. The top men’s model is suitable for both running and other active exercises.

The women’s version is created using another proprietary technology of the brand – Reactive Coil. It effectively absorbs shock load during intensive training. The outsole is resistant to deformation, perfectly cushioned and enhances rebound from the surface.

Xtep Running Shoes, 10,900 RUB / Nonconform

Hoka One One Clifton

Hoka One One is a French brand that produces modern running shoes. The lightweight Clifton 9 with a higher sole than its predecessor is suitable for those who can’t go a day without training. It’s a lightweight and comfortable sneaker for everyday jogging.

The enlarged midsole is made of compressed EVA foam. It provides excellent cushioning. The geometry of the Meta-Rocker outsole is specifically designed to support the foot in its natural position. It also helps you roll smoothly from heel to toe.

The Early Stage Rocker system allows you to push off quickly, while the Late Stage Rocker provides forefoot stability for a soft transition.

Hoka One One Clifton 9 Sneakers, 15,462 RUB

Nike Vomero

Vomero is another lineup from Nike for long-distance running and daily workouts. The men’s collection in Russia has already been updated with a new model 17. It uses lightweight and responsive Nike ZoomX foam. It provides flexibility, smooth running and cushioning in contact with the surface. Thanks to special grooves in the forefoot, the outsole flexes easily, allowing the foot to move naturally. This new product is also expected soon in the Vomero women’s collection.

Nike Vomero 17 sneakers, 25,999 RUB.

Puma Velocity Nitro

Lightweight training sneakers for every day. NitroFoam midsole made of liquid nitrogen foam consists of two parts. This creates excellent cushioning. The midsole made of patented Pumagrip rubber is highly durable. It also provides good traction in all weather conditions – even on ice and mud. An added bonus is the seamless upper construction, which gives the shoe a comfortable fit.

Puma Velocity Nitro 3 sneakers, 12,374 RUB.

Puma Deviate Nitro

PUMA Deviate Nitro running shoes will help you tackle any distance, from short runs to marathons. The improved model is more efficient and allows you to move faster and lighter. The full-length Nitro Elite midsole, made of specially formulated Nitro Elite foam, provides excellent shock absorption and vibration damping. It provides the necessary cushioning. The weight of the sneakers is approximately 260 grams.

Puma Deviate Nitro sneakers, 15,999 RUB.

Which sneakers to buy?

How to decide among all this variety of brands, soles, materials and technologies? Let’s try to understand.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile pair for everyday training, you can look at the Puma Velocity and Deviant models. They will be suitable for marathons and short distance running. If you compare the shock absorption, in Velocity it consists of two parts, and in Deviant – distributed along the entire length of the sole. The price of the question is 15-19 thousand rubles.

Nike Vomero can be seen by fans of natural running and those who are important ultra-flexibility of the sole. The cost of the novelty – from 25 thousand rubles.

Prefer running from the heel? Then you should go to the French Hoka One One with their Clifton model’s smooth sole roll system. The height difference between the heel and toe in this model is only 5 mm. The price of Hoka One One – from 17 thousand rubles.

For good dynamics, smoothness of movement and response when moving, it is worth turning to the Brooks Ghost 15 model. It costs from 20 thousand rubles. In the same price category are the famous Asics Gel-Nimbus. Lightweight and soft “nimbus” are perfect for hot days thanks to breathable materials and antibacterial insole.

A universal story – New Balance Fresh Foam with their combination of running performance and stylish design for every day. Prices start from 15 thousand rubles.

The new Ultraboost line from adidas is ideal for those who want to try new sensations of cushioning. Boost technology involves not separate air cushions, but a whole system of hundreds of small foam balls. The novelty costs from 29 thousand rubles – not cheap, but these shoes are not for one season.

Legendary Nike Pegasus are indispensable for athletes who prefer to run in different conditions and on all kinds of surfaces. In this line you can find both trail and urban sneakers for any weather. The cost – from 12 thousand rubles and above.

In the price category more budget – sneakers Xtep. The range of prices for them varies from 8 to 10 thousand rubles, for which you get a decent amortization and modern materials. Excellent duty option!

How to choose the right running shoes?

First of all, it is worth determining in what conditions you plan to train. There are models for running on rough terrain or on asphalt. These are the same Nike Pegasus. Trail running shoes have responsive cushioning and a comfortable fit.

Maybe you need a speed shoe or a long distance model? Then the Nike Vomero or the versatile adidas Ultraboost sneakers will do the trick.

It is best to come to a specialized store, where professionals will help with the choice and answer all the worrying questions. Consultants know how to find sneakers that will fit you. In addition, they can conduct a special scan of the biomechanics of running and determine the type of foot pronation. This will help to avoid injuries.

It is necessary to measure the shoes. It is better to take a version with a reserve of 5-7 mm. Choosing sneakers, pay attention to the fact that you were immediately comfortable. They should not press or, conversely, dangle on the foot. Cool sneakers – this is when you put them on and immediately go to train, because they are comfortable, comfortable and soft.

The right pair will not only provide useful and healthy running, but also give pleasure from sports.

In the gallery – more budget options of running sneakers. In the selection you can find both men’s and women’s models.

Prices are current at the time of publication.