What Are the Best Running Shoes for Men?
With such a great variety of brands and then types of running shoes out there, it can be difficult to choose that perfect one. Personally, staying within a tight budget has always been at the top of the list. But if your main priority is quality or comfort, look no further. We were able to find the best running shoes for men with the help of a few experts.
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“When choosing the best running shoes for men, there are a few things to consider. First, the type of terrain you will be running on is important. If you plan on running trails, a shoe with good traction and cushioning is essential. For those who will be running mainly on roads or other hard surfaces, a lightweight shoe with good arch support is ideal. I suggest looking for shoes with breathable mesh and foam cushioning, as well as a flexible sole for better stability.”
– John Smith / Leather Skin / Textile Designer & Fashion Stylist
Shoe Buying Dilemma
“A running shoe is like a glove. Not all shoes fit your foot perfectly or provide the necessary comfort and support.”
– Ja Warren Hooker | Superfeet Wellness | Panel Expert
“Shoe buying can be tricky, as there are so many different factors to consider. Of utmost importance is making sure that the shoes fit correctly and provide the necessary comfort, support, and stability. It’s also important to consider the quality of the materials used, the style, and of course the price. Taking all of these factors into account can make for a successful shoe buying experience.”
– Forekan / Crocsbazaar.com / Founder & Chief Editor
What’s of the Utmost Importance?
Doug Smiley said that he suggests the following needs to be taken into account when purchasing shoes:
- Fit
- Cushioning/responsiveness
- Lightweight feel
- Locked-in feel
- Flexible upper
Also, you should pay attention when trying on a pair of shoes:
- Sizing
- Big enough toe box
- No pressure points
- No heel slip
- Overall fit and feel
If you are unfamiliar with the various running gaits, you should probably learn more about neutral and stability running shoes. These are the main variations. Here are the key differences.
- Neutral shoes are designed for runners whose running gait/feet move in a neutral motion. These shoes tend to be a bit lighter because they typically do not have additional technologies to provide extra support.
- Stability shoes are designed to help with over-overpronation/supination. They give extra support to help counter their pronation. It helps guide the foot to a more neutral position.
– Doug Smiley / Under Armour / Director of Performance Run Footwear
“When shopping for running shoes, comfort is key. You should look for shoes with enough cushioning to absorb shock and provide support while running. Go for shoes that have a snug fit but are still comfortable and provide enough space in the toe box. When trying on shoes, wear your usual running socks and take the time to walk around in them to ensure they fit correctly.”
– John Smith / Leather Skin / Textile Designer & Fashion Stylist
“When finding the shoe that is right for you the first step is determining what type of foot strike you have. Foot strike is of the utmost importance when looking for shoes. You need to know – when you end your stride, are you hitting the pavement first with the forefoot, midfoot, or heel?
Really, the best way to determine what type of runner you are is to have your gait analyzed.
After determining your strike pattern, then determine what distance you are training for or are running.”
– Alex Tauberg | Tauberg Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
The Ballpark Price Range
“Running shoes are available in a wide range of prices, depending on the type and brand. Prices typically range from around $50 to $200, although some specialty running shoes can be even more expensive. There is a wide variety of choices available to meet different budgets and requirements.”
– Forekan / Crocsbazaar.com / Founder & Chief Editor
“When it comes to pricing, there are a variety of options available. Entry-level running shoes can range from $50-$100 while more specialized shoes can range from $100-$200. Ultimately, it comes down to how often you plan on running and the type of terrain you will be covering.”
– John Smith / Leather Skin / Textile Designer & Fashion Stylist
“A lighter shoe may be more useful for the highly competitive long-distance runner, but if you aren’t looking to burn your competition a heavy shoe may provide better protection.
Some common shoe-buying mistakes include buying the wrong strike pattern, buying really light track shoes when running long distances, buying for looks, switching shoes too soon, or waiting to buy a new shoe too late.
Ballpark price range is going to depend on what exactly you are looking for but you should probably expect to spend at least $100.”
– Alex Tauberg | Tauberg Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
9 of the Best Running Shoes for Men
Running on A Budget
Nike Air Zoom Winflo 6
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“Running shoes can be a considerable financial burden. If you’re looking for a high-quality shoe at an affordable price, look no further than the Nike Air Zoom Winflo 6. Featuring Cushlon foam and Zoom Air units midsole, this shoe provides the same level of comfort, cushioning, and durability as some of the top-tier shoes available today.”
– Kalev Rudolph | Healthy Living Advisor | QuickQuote.com
Nike Run All Day 2
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“The best running shoe is one that allows you to seamlessly transition from your daily errands and work outfit to a workout. By reducing the barriers to exercise, it’s more likely that you will get out and run.
My budget shoe recommendation is the Nike Run All Day 2. It’s affordable for entry-level runners, doesn’t stand out and look like a running shoe, and provides good support. If you’re on a budget, the price can’t be beaten.”
– Andrew Lee, Running Shorts, Instagram
The Resilient Shoe
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36
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“If you are a more advanced runner with fewer budget constraints, I recommend the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 which retails for just over a hundred dollars. This is a flagship running shoe for Nike and a true workhorse that has been updated numerous times over the years. There are 12 different color options so you can pick the one that best matches your outfit.”
– Andrew Lee, Running Shorts, Instagram
Brooks Ghost Running Shoe
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“Up front – I can say with confidence that Brooks has the best running shoes for men. They put the work into research, and provide a line of running shoes to fit almost every combination of foot biometrics. The most recently launched product by Brooks is Ghost Neutral Running Shoe.
If you’re a runner dealing with pronation or supination, experience, or inexperience, you can find a large selection of options, along with the information to make the right decision. Expect to pay between $100-150 for the right fit with Brooks.
Why do I say this so confidently? I’m a biomedical engineer and an Army veteran who’s run about a dozen marathons on top of a decade in the military. Not only that, but I recently started Project Biotech LLC, and our first product was a line of orthotic shoe inserts I designed. I’m pretty comfortable promoting Brooks as a solid brand for running shoes, even if it doesn’t excel in the marketing department. My shoes might have my orthotics in them, but that’s what I wear.”
– Tom Smoot / Project Biotech / Founder
Brooks Ghost Neutral Running Shoe
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“I worked as a footwear specialist for brands like Skechers, Asics, Nike, and Adidas, among other sports brands. Not only do I like to run, but I have sold loads of running shoes.
The best running shoe on the market is the Brooks Ghost Neutral Running Shoe. I love that this style gives you a lot of cushioning for a better shock-absorbing experience through Brooks DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA, protecting your knees and feet. Also, the shoes have excellent grip and traction due to the rubber outsole. It also gives a more natural forefoot movement and fluidity, which is great for neutral runners.”
– Hugo Guerreiro / The Men Hero / Founder of The Men Her
Asics GlideRide 3
$$“Asics GlideRide 3 are the best running shoes for men due to their cushioning, responsive ride, and lightweight feel. They are also breathable and have plenty of arch support. The rubberized sole provides excellent traction and stability on all surfaces. The GlideRide 3 has been designed to be comfortable throughout long-distance running sessions.”
– Forekan / Crocsbazaar.com / Founder & Chief Editor
ASICS Nimbus
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“ASICS Nimbus is a shoe I wore at the 2000 Olympics. What makes them so good? They’re versatile, lightweight, comfortable and cushioned. I’ve always felt like this shoe met every qualification. It’s also durable and well-priced. Depending on the mileage you are running they could last up to 6 months.”
– Ja Warren Hooker | Superfeet Wellness | Panel Expert
Hoka Bondi
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“The most important thing for me when considering running shoes is comfort. If the shoe doesn’t fit right or has spots that run wrong it just won’t work! I have found the best show for me is the Hoka Bondi. With that being said each person is different and should spend the time to really try as many as they can to find what works best for them!”
– Brian Smith / Cedar Cash Home Buyers / Long-term Runner
For the Outdoorsman
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
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“Built for trail runners, the Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 is the latest edition in Hoka’s Speedgoat line, combining Hoka’s signature cushioning with a durable and all-weather ready upper portion. Providing incredible stability, this shoe is perfect for a comfortable run throughout nature. Designed to be specifically forgiving to the feet and legs during long-distance runs while maintaining a robust 5mm lug prepped for even the roughest terrain – the Speedgoat 4 is a great addition to any outdoor runner’s repertoire.”
Kalev Rudolph | Healthy Living Advisor | QuickQuote.com
A Stable Foundation
ASICS Kayano
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“One recommendation I would make is the ASICS Kayano. Not as cushioned, but the narrow toe gives you a more stable foundation.”
– JaWarren Hooker, Superfeet Wellness Panel Expert
Most Versatile
HOVR Sonic 5
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According to Doug Smiley, a couple of Under Armour’s best-selling running shoes for men are HOVR Machina 3, HOVR Infinite 4 and HOVR Sonic 5 is the most versatile model.
– Doug Smiley / Under Armour / Director of Performance Run Footwe
“According to professionals, the top men’s running shoes on the market include the Nike Pegasus, the Brooks Ghost, and the Asics Gel Kayano. These shoes are known for their superior cushioning, support, and durability. The approximate price range for these shoes is around $100-$150.”
– Tonya Mcintosh / TGFFitness / Personal trainer
Although attempting to buy the best running shoes for men can be overwhelming, knowing exactly what you are looking for and/or even your preferred brand can help you find the right one. If you prefer quality over budget, comfort over durability, or indoor over outdoor, these shoes will surely keep you steady on your journey.
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