Best Road Running Shoes for Men of 2025
Men’s Running Shoes: daily trainers, cushioned, long distance, lightweight, and active recovery
April 7th, 2025
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To go on a run, you don’t need much other than shoes and some clothes; we love that about running. Most people already have some gym shorts and a t-shirt, so all they need to start running are some running shoes.
We’ve been running since middle school, and while we’ve drifted away from the sport occasionally, we always come back to this simple and meditative form of exercise and adventure. Over the years, we’ve worn countless pairs of running shoes and learned much about what makes a good shoe and what is simply OK for short runs.
We tested 15 road running shoes this winter and spring. We wore them for months, running everything from country roads to city streets and paths across the southwest while training for an ultramarathon.
After putting hundreds of hours and thousands of miles on the pavement and our feet, we’ve put together this guide that breaks down the best shoe for most common types of running. Our hard work will hopefully help you find the perfect pair of road running shoes for your needs this season.
Everyone’s body is different, and all the shoes we tested here are great. We tried our best to pick the best road shoes for most people, but you might find something that works better for you. For this reason, we also break down the important factors that go into making a great road running shoe to empower you to make your own choice. Also, nothing beats going into a running shoe store and trying on several models to see which one fits best and feels best to you.
Whether you’re training for your first 5K or are a seasoned marathon runner, cross-training athlete, or simply want to stay in shape by joining a running club, this guide is intended to help you on your journey as a runner.
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Comparison table
| ROAD SHOE | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | CUSHION | STABILITY | DROP | STACK | SIZES | BEST USE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOKA Mach 6 | Best overall Read why |
$140 | 1 lb, 0.4 oz | Maximum | Neutral | 5 mm | 37 - 32 mm | 7 - 14 (reg, wide) | Speed workouts, racing, daily trainer |
| On Cloudeclipse | Best upgrade Read why |
$180 | 1 lb, 4.1 oz | Maximum | Neutral | 6 mm | 37 - 31 mm | 7 - 14 (reg) | Distance workouts |
| Saucony Ride 18 | Best affordable Read why |
$140 | 1 lb, 3.8 oz | Maximum | Neutral | 8 mm | 35 - 27 mm | 7 - 15 (reg, wide) | Daily trainer, longer runs |
| Nike Pegasus 41 | Best for beginners Read why |
$140 | 1 lb, 4.9 oz | Maximum | Neutral | 10 mm | 37 - 27 mm | 6 - 18 (reg, extra wide) | Daily trainer, beginners |
| On Cloudsurfer 2 | Best for long distance Read why |
$160 | 1 lb, 1.4 oz | Maximum | Neutral | 9 mm | 37-28 mm | 7 - 14 (reg) | Daily trainer, active recovery, beginners |
The winners
Best overall road running shoes for men: HOKA Mach 6
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 0.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Very lightweight, affordable, responsive midsole, supportive upper, breathable, versatile, comfortable
What we didn’t like: May be overkill for casual runners
The HOKA Mach 6 weighs less than most running shoes but is still very comfortable, cushioned, and versatile. Many lightweight trainers feel minimal on your feet, and while the Mach 6 doesn’t feel like you’re walking on a cloud, the 37-32 mm stack height still offers plenty of cushion for most runners to use as a daily trainer. This shoe is light enough for speed work but comfortable and cushioned enough for longer runs. And it’s surprisingly affordable.
We tested the Mach 6 in southern Arizona and around Moab, Utah. These shoes are super versatile. They are our favorite for speedy runs, but what surprised us most about these shoes is their performance on every run. We initially saw the weight of these shoes (which at 16.4 oz for the pair is less than every other running shoe we tested) and thought, “This is a fast shoe for speed workouts,” but it’s good for much more than that.
Whether you’re on a short recovery run or going a marathon distance, these remain comfortable and help propel you every step. They don’t weigh you down, and the supercritical EVA foam midsole is super springy to keep you moving forward.
HOKA Mach 6
Supercritical EVA, which is made by injecting nitrogen into the midsole foam during manufacturing, is the type of foam commonly used in modern “super shoes” that often cost upwards of $200. But surprisingly, the Mach 6 is quite affordable. These are tied for the least expensive shoes we tested with the Saucony Ride and Nike Pegasus. So, even though they’re a fast and light shoe, they don’t cost as much as other lightweight trainers and have a fantastic, well-cushioned midsole. This means you can wear these shoes for most runs without feeling like you’re wasting your expensive fast shoes.
The Mach 6’s upper is more breathable and features a more streamlined fit than previous versions. It has a secure fitting heel, and the tongue attaches to an elastic strap that wraps around your midfoot, creating a very secure fitting upper.
The outsole rubber is grippy enough for pavement with the occasional gravel section. As you’d expect from a lightweight shoe, it has relatively large sections of exposed midsole foam—on the heel and through the center of the outsole, extending to near the toe. But compared to many other road running shoes, they don’t have as much exposed midsole foam, so they’re more durable.
Some people have found the Mach 6 slightly narrow in the midfoot and toe box. Our main tester, Sam, has wider than average feet, and he didn’t find these shoes too narrow, even on longer runs. If you have really wide feet, you can get these in wide sizing, which you should try on before buying the standard width.
If you’re looking for a do-it-all lightweight running shoe that’s fast, cushioned, and doesn’t cost a fortune, we recommend the Mach 6. It’s also the winner of Best Lightweight Road Running Shoes in our Best Women’s Road Running Shoes guide.
Best upgrade men’s road running shoe: On Cloudeclipse
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.7 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, well-cushioned, excellent energy return
What we didn’t like: Expensive
The On Cloudeclipse is a max cushioned running shoe that feels fast, snappy, and smooth on every run. These shoes could have easily been Best Overall–and are Best Overall in our Women’s Road Running Shoes guide–but we couldn’t bring ourselves to recommend one of the most expensive shoes we tested over everything else. That being said, these are an excellent option if you can afford them.
We tested the Cloudeclipses on back roads in southern Arizona and for hill workouts on the road up Madera Canyon. They’re light and responsive when running uphill and feel stable on the downhills. Even when our legs were tired at the end of a hill session, these shoes made it easy to run down a steep three-mile descent quickly. They have a grippy rubber outsole that inspires confidence, even on rough roads with gravel patches. And on flat roads, they feel just as good.
On Cloudeclipse
The midsole features On’s Helion foam with On’s CloudTec Phase holes. This midsole provides ample padding for your feet yet doesn’t feel mushy. The Helion EVA super foam combined with CoudTec Phase holes in the midsole creates a smooth ride, so the transition from footfall to pushing off for the next stride feels quick without feeling jarring. The CloudTec Phase holes create a lot of give when you land but spring back into shape as you push off.
The Cloudeclipse also has a speedboard that stiffens the arch area, making each stride much more efficient. But since it doesn’t cover the entire length of the shoe, only the midfoot region, it doesn’t feel too stiff. A stiffer midsole helps with energy transfer as you stride, but too much can be uncomfortable over long distances. These shoes hit the sweet spot between flexible comfort and stiffer efficiency.
They also have a unique lacing system with webbing sewn into the recycled polyester mesh upper. All the lace eyelets are simple cord loops that attach to the webbing sewn into the upper. This system allows the laces to slide through the eyelets easily, equalizing the tightness across your entire foot while pulling on the webbing across the shoe’s upper. The tongue is also built into the upper, connecting to the midsole. This design creates a sock-like feel that holds your foot firmly in place without uncomfortably squeezing it.
On is very transparent with its materials and where their products are manufactured, which we love. The Cloudeclipse is made with a recycled polyester mesh upper in a factory in Athena, Vietnam. The upper is dope-dyed, which uses 90% less water than traditional fabric-dyeing processes. On is also developing an EVA midsole made from 51% captured carbon emissions, and while they’re still testing it to ensure it meets their standards, they hope to use this technology in all their shoes one day. We look forward to the day when the Cloudeclipse’s midsole is made with captured carbon.
The only downside of these shoes is the price, as we mentioned above. However, these shoes feel really good for any type of running. If you can afford it, we think they’re worth the price.
If you’re looking for a lightweight shoe with tons of responsive cushioning that’s still fast enough for speed work and hill workouts and works great as an everyday trainer, the Cloudeclipse is a worthy upgrade winner.
Best affordable road running shoes for men: Saucony Ride 18
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.8 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, well-cushioned, responsive midsole, affordable
What we didn’t like: Not as bouncy as some shoes, heavier
The Saucony Ride 18 is less expensive than most other road running shoes we tested, but it performs as well or better than most, making it an obvious choice for the best affordable running shoe. These shoes are well-cushioned, responsive, and comfortable—everything you want in a daily trainer. They also have a classic look that doesn’t stand out like some modern running shoes while performing as well as modern high-tech (and high-tech-looking) running shoes. They’re also more durable than many running shoes, making them an ideal shoe to wear daily.
We tested the Saucony Ride 18 while running in southern Arizona this winter on everything from short 3-mile spins around the neighborhood to 20-mile long runs and uptempo workouts. Treeline editor, Becca Downs, has worn the women’s version of the Saucony Ride for years while training as a competitive runner. And she achieved many individual successes while wearing the always-reliable Ride and also dubbed the Rides the Best Affordable road running shoe option.
Saucony Ride 18
The Ride 18’s most notable improvement over previous versions is the brand’s updated PWRRUN Plus midsole, which is more responsive and comfortable than previous models. While PWRRUN Plus remains relatively firm compared to other shoes, it provides excellent energy return. The firmer foam is more durable than springier foams, which lose their bounce faster. It also has a soft insole, and this thicker cushioned insole combined with the firmer midsole foam feels plush while still providing a solid platform to push off as you stride.
The outsole has plenty of grippy rubber without too much exposed midsole foam. This outsole design, combined with the firmer midsole material, makes for an even more durable running shoe, which we want in a daily trainer.
It has an engineered mesh upper that’s very breathable. Like the On Cloudeclipse, the laces pass through small cord loops, which equalizes the lacing tightness to hug your foot comfortably. It has a cushioned, gusseted tongue that attaches to the midsole with wide elastic bands that wrap around your arch and midfoot to create a secure fit. The padded heel cup hugs the heel nicely as well.
These aren’t the lightest shoes, nor are they the flashiest. But that’s not what they try to be. These are workhorse shoes that you can reliably lace up daily for your runs, and they aren’t expensive when you need a new pair.
If you’re looking for an affordable running shoe for daily use that’s comfortable, durable, and reliable, the Ride 18 is a great option.
Best road running shoes for beginners: Nike Pegasus 41
Available sizes: 6 - 18 (reg, extra wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 4.9 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Breathable upper, comfortable foam cushioning, versatile, good value
What we didn’t like: Not the lightest
Nike's Pegasus line has long been a staple for runners looking for a reliable, all-purpose running shoe. The Pegasus 41 is similar to previous Pegasus models, but it now has a full-length ReactX foam midsole with Nike’s Air Zoom units in both the heel and forefoot. We like this shoe for daily trainers at any length of run. It also costs less than most other running shoes, which we love for beginners (and everyone else).
We tested the Pegasus 41 while running roads and paved paths in Moab, Utah, and southern Arizona. Thanks to the Air Zoom units in the heel and forefoot, these shoes feel bouncy. And while they weigh over 10 ounces per shoe, they feel lighter for some reason. The result is that they feel quick and sporty, like a classic lightweight running shoe.
Nike Pegasus 41
The Pegasus is a good choice for the runner who wants more road feel than other daily trainers. It doesn’t have as much cushion as many modern max cushion running shoes like the HOKA Bondi, Altra Via Olympus, or On Cloudeclipse, but it feels lighter and more nimble than those shoes. The Pegasus is also more flexible than those shoes and feels more like a traditional running shoe.
The outsole rubber is durable and provides good traction. The rubber covers almost the entire outsole, and only one section of exposed midsole foam stretches from the heel to the interior of the arch. The lacing system secures your foot down. The laces attach to the breathable mesh upper, and an internal midfoot bootie wraps around your entire foot.
If you’re looking for a more affordable running shoe that offers a more traditional ride, the Pegasus 41 is worth considering.
Best road running shoes for long distances: On Cloudsurfer 2
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 1.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 9 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, lightweight, responsive midsole, well-cushioned
What we didn’t like: The large channel of exposed midsole underfoot
The On Cloudsurfer 2 is comfortable over any distance, but comfort is super important when running long distances. These feature On’s proprietary Helion superfoam and CloudTec midsole technology, making the shoes pillowy-soft but still responsive when you push off. And even though they’re very cushioned, they’re still incredibly light.
We tested the Cloudsurfer 2 in Tucson, Arizona, and the surrounding southwest region during the winter and spring. We wore them on runs ranging from 5 miles to 20 miles, and the smooth ride and springy midsole made us feel like we were running on a cloud (pun intended).
At 17.4 oz for the pair, these shoes are also very light, which makes keeping your feet moving over long distances a little easier. They have 10 mm drop, which is ideal for heel strikers who want tons of padding with each footfall. But a higher drop also positions you in a forward leaning position, as if you’re going downhill, so it makes everyone feel like they’re being pushed forward.
On Cloudsurfer 2
These shoes aren't equipped with On's Speedboard, so if you're looking for a stiff and fast shoe from On, we recommend the Cloudeclipse, which has the Speedboard. However, the lack of this feature in the Cloudsurfer makes it less expensive and more flexible. The increased flexibility of the Cloudsurfer makes it more comfortable for long runs than the Cloudeclipse. Also, the Cloudsurfers are lighter than the Cloudeclipse, so you can still run very fast in them.
The biggest downside of these shoes is the outsole. It has a large groove running down the center, just big enough for rocks to get jammed in. The Cloudsurfers are grippy enough for gravel and casual trails, but that rock-grabbing groove makes us want to avoid gravel surfaces. This isn’t a dealbreaker, especially since it’s a road running shoe, but it is worth noting.
If you’re looking for a supportive, plush, and springy running shoe for long distances, you should check out the Cloudsurfer 2.
Best cushioned road running shoes: HOKA Clifton 9
Available sizes: 7 - 16 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 1.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, feels efficient, well-cushioned, lightweight, comes in wide and standard sizes
What we didn’t like: Exposed midsole is a durability concern
The HOKA Clifton 9 balances high cushion with a lightweight and fast platform for an all-around stellar shoe. We like this shoe because it is very cushioned but doesn’t feel like you’re dragging a pound of foam on each foot. These are great for everyday running, walking, and active recovery. But they’re also light enough for faster runs. We tested the Clifton during the spring in southern Arizona, on runs ranging from quick 5-mile spins to longer 15 to 20-mile outings.
Right out of the box, they’re very comfortable.
We’ve loved the Clifton line for years and have reviewed the Clifton 8 and Clifton 9. We also tested the new Clifton 10, which becomes available soon. For now, check out the Clifton 9, which is currently available on discount as stores make way for the new model.
HOKA Clifton 9
The outsole is grippy enough for pavement, gravel, and smooth dirt trails. It has a large amount of exposed midsole foam, though. While cutting back on outsole rubber saves weight, it does make for a less durable shoe. Because of this, we try to keep ourselves on pavement and smooth surfaces as much as possible. Also, while the fit through the midfoot felt fine for our main tester, Sam, who has wider than average but not extremely wide feet, we think some people might find it on the narrow side.
The Clifton series has long been one of our favorites and is wildly popular among runners. It’s also a favorite for walking, among nurses, and with others who spend long days on their feet. This shoe is a versatile daily trainer you can also wear for your next marathon.
Best lightweight daily trainer: Salomon Aero Glide 3
Available sizes: 7 - 14 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 1.6 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Feels cruisy, well-cushioned, grippy outsole, fits well, comfortable upper
What we didn’t like: Narrower fit
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a well-cushioned running shoe for daily training that feels quick and bouncy. These shoes are incredibly light for a max-cushion shoe. They weigh slightly less than the HOKA Clifton but have more stack height.
We tested these shoes on speedy interval runs and hill workouts in Tucson and across southern Arizona. They’re light enough that we practically forgot we were wearing them as we ran up a steep incline during a hill workout. And on the downhill, they felt grippy so we didn’t feel out of control.
Salomon Aero Glide 3
The Aero Glide 3 is so light due to Salomon’s proprietary Energy Foam Evo midsole, a supercritical EVA, which gives lots of cushion and good energy return without weighing a lot. There is just enough outsole material, made with Salomon’s Contragrip rubber, to grip the road. The rubber runs along the outside of the tread and leaves a large section of exposed midsole in the middle. This undoubtedly saves weight, but it is not the most durable design.
The Aero Glide 3 has a very comfortable upper with what Salomon calls a seamless design. While multiple types of materials are fused together, they don’t use stitches. This eliminates some risk of hotspots and chafing, resulting in a super comfortable shoe.
Salomon shoes tend to run narrower than many other shoe brands, and these aren’t available in wide sizing. Sam, our main tester, has feet that measure wide, and he often wears wide-sized shoes, but he didn’t find the Aero Glide’s too narrow, even on longer 15-mile runs.
If you’re looking for a super lightweight shoe with a lot of cushion that’s fast enough for speed work and versatile enough for every other run, this is worth considering.
Best low-drop road running shoes: Altra Torin 8
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 4.7 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Zero drop design, grippy rubber outsole, comfortable for long runs
What we didn’t like: Zero drop takes some getting used to
If you’re looking for a low-drop running shoe that allows for a more natural, barefoot shape without sacrificing cushion for longer runs, the Altra Torin 8 is our top pick. This zero-drop running shoe has the same stack height in the heel and forefoot. This is a significant difference compared to many running shoes with between 6 and 10 mm of drop. The Torin also has a wide toe box, allowing your toes to spread out.
We tested the Torin 8 in Arizona and Utah this winter and spring on paved roads, sidewalks, and recreation paths. They’re also great on dirt roads, and their sticky rubber outsole grips slick rock and steep sections better than many road running shoes. They aren’t our absolute favorite for dirt and gravel—that’s the Salomon Aero Glide GRVL—but the Torins are a close second for mixed surface runs because the entire outsole is rubber with no exposed midsole foam. This also increases the durability of the shoes.
Altra Torin 8
They have a comfortable mesh upper with a padded tongue, ankle, and heel. Previous versions of the tongue on the Torin were notably uncomfortable to many users. This issue, which was solved with Torin 7, is still not an issue with the Torin 8.
We love running in zero-drop shoes because they lengthen our calves and Achilles tendon. But we don’t like running in minimalist shoes without cushion for longer runs. The Torin has 30 mm of stack. So, even though they allow your feet to sit in a more natural position, they pad your footfall so you can run comfortably all day.
They have an Altra EGO MAX midsole, which is firm yet provides enough cushion underfoot. The midsole doesn’t feel as responsive as a pair of Ons or HOKAs, but it provides a solid platform to push off. It doesn’t try to give that floating on a cloud feeling underfoot, strengthening your feet as you wear them.
One drawback of zero-drop shoes is that you need to break your body into running with them. If you have “perfect” biomechanics, where your feet land directly below your hips and don’t heel strike, then you likely won’t have any problems with zero-drop shoes like the Torins. But for the rest of us, it’s best to gradually integrate these shoes into a rotation of running shoes. And as your body adapts to zero drop, you can wear them more often.
However, if you’re interested in running in zero-drop shoes but don’t want to run in a minimalist shoe with no cushion, the Torin 8 is our top choice.
Best shoes for active recovery: HOKA Bondi 9
Available sizes: 7 - 16 (reg - extra wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.0 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: lots of cushion, springy midsole, surprisingly light
What we didn’t like: Not the best for faster runs
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a max-cushion shoe perfect for long runs and recovery days. We’re big fans of the Hoka Speedgoat here, which we’ve always thought of as the trail-running cousin of the Hoka Bondi. But whether you’re coming from a road or trail background, the Bondi is reliable, comfortable, and easy to put on—everything you’d want in a shoe for recovery days.
We tested the Bondi during the building stage of an ultra training plan. This shoe isn’t the lightest, but it’s a great everyday trainer. On a recovery day, we ran up a steep road in southern Arizona’s Madera Canyon. It was supposed to be an easy run, but after a few miles of warm-up, we decided to keep going. The next thing we knew, we were bombing down that road after making it to the top.
These shoes simply feel good. They’re incredibly stable and inspire confidence at a higher downhill cadence. They also provide traction on rougher roads, including the occasional dirt and gravel surface.
HOKA Bondi 9
The Bondi 9 saw an upgrade in the midsole, which is now made with supercritical EVA foam. Supercritical EVA uses nitrogen gas in the foam manufacturing, creating many tiny, uniform bubbles. This process makes the foam lighter and bouncier. The 43 to 38 mm stack height midsole is quite responsive while providing the most cushion of any shoe we tested. The Smooth MetaRocker midsole makes your strides feel even and the transition from heel strike to push-off easy.
The upper is made with engineered mesh that contains 55% recycled polyester. The upper feels soft and makes the shoe comfortable to wear all day. It’s also quite breathable, so your feet don’t overheat on long, hot stretches of pavement.
These shoes aren’t speed demons, so if you’re looking to set a personal record or make a splash in racing, these aren’t the shoes we’d pick. However, when you’re training hard, not every day will be interval sprints. The Bondis excel on those other days, and on longer, easier recovery runs.
If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe for everyday use and recovery days, you can’t do much better than the Bondi. This shoe is quite popular for a good reason. We definitely find ourselves reaching for our pair of Bondis more often than most.
Other road running shoes we tested
Saucony Triumph 22
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 2 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, stable, well-cushioned, available in regular and wide sizes
What we didn’t like: Slightly heavy, upper material may not be the most breathable
The Saucony Triumph 22 is an all-around comfortable, amply cushioned daily trainer. It’s not flashy and isn’t the lightest, but it doesn’t try to be. We like these shoes for running and walking every day. They’re also very comfortable to wear, whether in a recovery context or simply to be comfortable. They have a simple look that doesn’t scream “running shoe” loudly, so you can wear them around town and they won’t stand out.
Saucony Triumph 22
They have a wider fit through the forefoot than previous Triumph versions, making them more comfortable for hot, long runs. They also have an Ortholite sockliner that integrates with the tongue to wrap comfortably around your foot. This makes it incredibly easy to slide your feet into these shoes—they’re one of the easiest we tested to put on without our hands.
The Triumph 22 has Saucony’s signature PWRRUN PB midsole material—the same midsole used in Saucony’s race shoes, the Endorphin Speed 4 and Endorphin Pro 4. This midsole feels firm and bouncy, but the 37/27 mm stack gives you plenty of cushion underfoot.
While the Triumph is not a race-day shoe if you’re trying to win, we like seeing this high-end midsole material in an everyday shoe that works well for the rest of us. Yes, you can run your race in the Triumph 22, but this shoe isn’t designed to be the fastest. It’s great for long days and doesn’t slow you down, but it’s not a quick, snappy racing shoe.
These shoes are great, but they’re slightly more expensive than the Saucony Ride 18. If you like how Saucony shoes fit your feet, and want more stack than the Ride, these are the shoes we recommend.
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.2 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Well-cushioned, zero-drop design
What we didn’t like: Feels stiffer than we’d like
The Altra Via Olympus 2 offers plush cushioning throughout a balanced platform. While they’re very comfortable when standing and the EGO MAX midsole provides excellent energy return, we found these shoes felt stiffer through the midsole than the Altra Torin 8. As they break-in, the Via Olympus feel less stiff, but they never felt quite as comfortable to us as the Torin.
But if you want more cushion than the Torin, the Via Olympus has 33 mm of stack, which is slightly higher.
Altra Via Olympus 2
Available sizes: 6 - 16 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.9 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Comfortable, supportive through the midfoot
What we didn’t like: This is a great shoe that doesn’t stand out in any way
The Nimbus 27 is the latest version of Asics' neutral cushioned everyday trainer. It uses Asics’ FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and signatureGEL midsole technology. This shoe is very comfortable and super reliable. It has a soft and stretchy tongue and integrated booty for midfoot support. Some runners love this shoe and have been wearing it for a long time.
However, it didn’t wow us compared to the innovative running shoes we chose as award winners. It’s still a great shoe, and if you like the sound of it, you won’t be disappointed.
Asics Gel Nimbus 27
Available sizes: 6 - 16 (reg - extra wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 5.5 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Stability
What we liked: Corrects for overpronation, comfortable
What we didn’t like: Clunky feeling
The Kayano 31 is Asics’ flagship stability shoe. If you’re an overpronator, then this is a great option. It has Asics’ 4D guidance system, which combines different foam densities and supportive materials to reinforce the shoe’s arch.
These features are nice for overpronators and didn’t feel intrusive during testing. Still, we prefer other approaches for stability shoes, such as adjusting the geometry rather than using firmer foam. But if you need a stability shoe, this is still a great option many people have used for years.
Asics Gel Kayano 31
Available sizes: 7 - 15 (reg, wide)
Weight: 1 lb, 3.4 oz
Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm
Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
What we liked: Versatile, supportive, grippy rubber outsole, durable
What we didn’t like: Doesn’t stand out in any way
The Diadora Nucleo 2 is a compelling road running shoe that balances comfort with a supportive upper. This shoe, from the Italian shoemaker we remember from our days playing competitive soccer, features Diadora’s own Anima midsole. This midsole is responsive, firm, and lightweight. It’s very stable on varied terrain and is one of the more durable, off-road capable shoes, while remaining light and cushioned enough for long days pounding out miles on pavement.
Diadora Nucleo 2
Why you need road running shoes tailored to your needs
Every runner should consider their running and training goals, and based on that, choose a running shoe that fits those goals.
For beginners and occasional runners, we think a running shoe with a high cushion is ideal because it protects your joints from impact as you get used to running more. We also believe versatility is ideal for less frequent runners, so you can wear those same shoes for walking, going to the gym, and around town. Also, if you’re just starting out with running, get a neutral support shoe because those accommodate the most foot types (more on neutral support and stability shoes below). Finally, if you’re just starting to run, you might want to select a less expensive shoe.
We like the On Cloudsurfer, HOKA Clifton, and Nike Pegasus 41 for beginner runners. All these shoes have plenty of cushion and are versatile enough to wear for walking, at the gym, and around town.
Serious runners and those training for a race may want to have at least two pairs of shoes to swap out during heavy training blocks. If you're incorporating speed workouts into your routine, consider lighter-weight shoes with less cushioning, more responsive energy return, and other enhanced performance features. You’ll probably want to switch to a shoe with more cushion for recovery and longer runs.
We like the HOKA Mach 6, Salomon Aero Glide 3, and On Cloudeclipse for speed workouts and intervals. These are the three lightest shoes in our testing lineup, and they all offer stellar energy return for speedy strides and high-intensity workouts.
Ultimately, the best running shoe for you will be comfortable for you. We recommend trying on a bunch of shoes and selecting the ones that feel best. Every foot is different, and certain brands fit better on certain types of feet.
What to look for in men’s road running shoes
Here are some things to look for when selecting the best men’s road running shoes.
Cushioning
Cushioning in running shoes pads your feet with each step. The more cushion a shoe has, the less running will impact your joints. Cushioning directly correlates with stack height, which is how thick the midsole foam is. Stack height is measured in millimeters. Most road running shoes have between 25 and 40 mm of stack height, with more cushion on the heel and slightly less on the forefoot.
Maximum cushion isn’t always best, though, because those shoes will likely be heavier since they have more foam. Maximum cushion shoes are suitable for general long runs and recovery days. (Note: some official marathons and races have limits on how much stack height a shoe can have to be considered “legal;” a common one is shoes must have less than 40mm of stack.) Less cushioned shoes will feel faster and more responsive, making your turnover between strides quicker. These are best for faster-paced runs.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness is how much energy a shoe provides when you push off the ground. More responsive shoes feel bouncy, making you feel like you’re getting some assistance with every step. Runners who want to go faster tend to like a more responsive shoe.
Some of the most responsive shoes are the HOKA Mach 6, Solomon Aero Glide 3, and HOKA Bondi 9. Each of these shoes has a supercritical EVA foam midsole, which means the foam is made with nitrogen gas injected into the foam. This creates tiny, uniform air pockets in the foam, making for a springier ride than traditional EVA.
The On Clousurfer 2, which uses On’s CloudTec Phase midsole, is also very responsive, thanks to the unique design in the midsole. The On Cloudeclipse also features the CloudTec Phase midsole and a Helion EVA super foam. The Cloudeclipse offers maximum cushion in a very responsive platform.
Arch support
Arch support in running shoes helps prevent overpronation, where your foot rolls inward with each footfall. It’s hard to know if you overpronate (where your foot rolls in), supinate (where your foot rolls out), or have a neutral stride (where it doesn’t roll in or out). You can have someone else watch your stride, and many running shoe stores have treadmills for this reason.
Most of the shoes we tested offer neutral support, which gives some arch support. You can also add insoles or personalized orthotics to any neutral shoe to control overpronation.
Stability features
As we mentioned above, road running shoes with stability features provide extra midsole support to prevent overpronation. Usually, this means a higher arch.
We tested the ASICS GEL Kayano 31, which is a stability shoe. As we said above, you can add orthopedic inserts or stability insoles to neutral shoes to custom tailor them to your stability needs.
Breathability
Most running shoes feature breathable mesh uppers. Breathability is crucial because you’re working hard when running, and if your feet overheat, they’ll sweat, which can cause blisters.
Most running shoes are adequately breathable, but some brands offer a Gore-Tex or waterproof version of their shoes for colder weather. These shoes are not as breathable, and you probably won’t be as comfortable if you wear them while running on hot days. Overlays of other materials besides mesh can also reduce breathability in a shoe. We recommend getting the standard breathable mesh version of your shoe of choice unless you plan to use your shoes in a cold and wet climate.
Fit and sizing
Fit and sizing will affect how comfortable a pair of running shoes is. That’s why it’s best to try on running shoes. We recommend trying on shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are the most swollen.
Some people like to get a half size larger in running shoes. If you’re first starting, you may want to size up if a half size bigger feels comfortable. Sam, our main tester for men’s running shoes, has never needed to size up, but he’s been active his entire life.
Ultimately, you want your running shoes to be comfortable. If they’re too small, you could lose a toenail or get blisters on your toes. If your shoes are too big, your heel might slip as you stride, causing discomfort and possible blisters on the heel.
Some shoes fit wider or narrower, and some have a larger toe box. Many running shoes even come in wide sizing, such as the Altra Torin 8, Altra Via Olympus 2, Asics GEL-Nimbus 27, Asics GEL-Kayano 31, HOKA Bondi 9, HOKA Clifton 9, HOKA Mach 6, Saucony Ride 18, Saucony Triumph 22, Nike Pegasus 41, and Diadora NUCLEO 2. A good compromise between sizing up and not is getting the wide sizing in the shoe size you typically wear.
Weight
Most road running shoes we tested weigh between 8 and 10 ounces per shoe. The lightest shoes often have less cushion but more responsiveness. Heavier shoes tend to have more cushion and sometimes more support. Usually, road runners wear lightweight shoes for races and speed work. And they wear heavier, more cushioned shoes for daily mileage and long runs.
All the shoes we tested are relatively lightweight, so weight shouldn’t be a huge concern unless you're racing competitively. However, the HOKA Mach 6, On Cloudsurfer 2, and Salomon Aero Glide 3 are the lightest shoes we tested.
Durability
Lighter shoes tend to be less durable than heavier ones. But that’s not always the case. For instance, the HOKA Mach 6 has more outsole rubber than the heavier HOKA Bondi and Clifton. While the Mach 6 might not outlast a super burly, heavy running shoe, it will last about as long as all the other lightweight running shoes we tested here.
Generally, running shoes should be replaced whenever you’ve compressed the midsole. This often happens before you’ve worn through the outsole or put a hole in the upper material. Most people recommend replacing your running shoes every 300-500 miles. If you’re experiencing joint pain, it’s likely time to replace your shoes. If you still feel good in a pair of shoes and the outsole isn’t worn through, then keep rocking those shoes.
Flexibility
Most road running shoes flex and bend in the midsole. Some shoes build in something rigid into the midsole to propel you forward as you stride, making the shoes less flexible. We prefer a relatively flexible shoe, but nothing too flexible, either. More rigid shoes have their place for speed work and racing, but they’re less comfortable as a daily trainer.
Traction
Traction isn’t a big concern on paved surfaces, but your running shoes should still offer enough traction. Most of the running shoes we tested provide adequate traction on paved surfaces, but some are better for mixed surface runs, where you’re sometimes on gravel or smooth dirt trails.
Check the tread pattern on the bottom of the shoe and what the rubber is made of. Some road running shoes don’t have much rubber on the outsole, while others have more rubber for more grip.
Drop (heel-to-toe offset)
Heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Most road running shoes have between 5 and 10 mm of drop. Some shoes, like the Altra Torin and Via Olympus, have zero drop, which means the heel and forefoot are the same height.
Higher drop shoes have more cushion in the heel, which reduces the impact of heel striking. These shoes often provide a smoother ride, but some prefer a more natural stride like the zero-drop Altra models. We tend to gravitate towards 5-6 mm of drop, but everyone is different.
Toe box space
The toe box, where your toes sit in a shoe, needs to be roomy enough so that your toes don’t get smashed into one another. Altra creates the widest toe box shoes, but any shoe that’s available in wide sizing will likely have a large enough toe box to accommodate your wider feet.
Toe box space comes down to foot shape and preference. If you have a wider foot, try shoes with a wider toe box, or get a pair of shoes in wide sizing.
Material
Road running shoes use different upper, midsole, and outsole materials.
The upper is typically mesh to make the shoe light and breathable. The midsole provides stability and cushion in a running shoe. Midsoles are usually made of some type of foam, and some brands add other proprietary tech in the midsole as well for increased rebound, cushion, or both.
The shoe's outsole, or tread, is made of rubber. The type of rubber varies widely between shoes, and you can dive deep into this if you want. We find rubber compounds are more important with trail running shoes. For road running, most rubber compounds offer a balance of grip and durability that works for most people.
Style/colors
You want your shoes to look good when you’re running. While style isn’t the most important factor, most running shoes look pretty cool and come in many fun color combinations. Many running shoes have at least some hints of reflectivity on the logos or laces, but if you want to easily be seen on the road, you can opt for neon colors and check out our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
How should road running shoes fit?
Road running shoes should fit comfortably above all else. They should have enough room in the toe box that your toes don’t squeeze together, which can cause blisters while running. The shoe’s heel cup should hold your heel firmly in place to prevent uncomfortable rubbing as you push off with each stride. When trying on shoes, we like to test if we can wiggle our toes with them laced snugly and if the heel slips by holding the shoe in place while attempting to lift our heel.
For more information on how to size road running shoes, see our guide to sizing trail running shoes.
Can I use road running shoes for trail running?
You can absolutely use road running shoes for trail running. Trail running shoes tend to have a burlier toe cap to protect your feet and grippier tread for better traction on uneven surfaces. But that doesn’t mean you need trail running-specific shoes to start trail running.
To test durability, we used each of these road running shoes on smooth dirt trails and rocky paths. They all worked because a running shoe is a running shoe, no matter its specific intended use case. However, trail running shoes will work better on trails than road running shoes, especially on technical, steep, rocky, and muddy trails.
If you want one pair of shoes for roads and trails, we recommend the Salomon Aero Glide GRVL. These shoes have a stickier rubber outsole with shallow lugs that aid in traction on dirt but feel quick and nimble like a road running shoe.
Breaking in new road running shoes
Most road running shoes are comfortable out of the box, but breaking them in will help your body adjust to a new pair of shoes. We recommend taking them on shorter runs initially. If you have an older pair of shoes, alternate between running in your new and old shoes.
You may need to stop and adjust the lacing as your foot settles during your first few runs with a new pair of running shoes. For more information on different lacing techniques, see REI’s guide to lacing running shoes.
Care and maintenance of road running shoes
Many people, especially old-school runners, think you should never wash running shoes. But you can wash running shoes, and here’s how:
Remove the laces. You can place these in a mesh bag and put them in a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Remove the insoles.
Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove dry dirt from the outsoles and upper. If your shoes are muddy, it’s best to let them dry before washing because dry dirt will flake off.
Wash the shoes and insoles with mild soap in a utility sink, bucket, or wash basin.
Rinse with clean water.
To maximize durability, choose a shoe with more rubber on the outsole. Many road running shoes have large sections of exposed midsole foam prone to tearing as you step. The most durable shoes have less exposed midsole foam. We like the HOKA Mach 6, Nike Pegasus, Altra Torin, On Cloudeclipse, and Saucony Ride because they have less midsole foam exposed to the tread.
If you use Strava to track your runs, you can add your shoes to your profile. You can set the app to notify you when you’ve reached a set amount of miles on a pair of shoes. The default notification comes at 250 miles on a pair of shoes, which is ideal because many shoes need to be replaced at around 300 miles.
To add shoes to your profile, go to “Settings,” then “My Gear,” and add your shoes. You can also follow this link. Then, when you’ve completed a run, add the shoes you wore by editing the activity and selecting those shoes.
You can also track your shoe mileage manually by keeping a spreadsheet of all your runs and adding up the total miles as you go. However, Strava is a free app, and it’s helpful in tracking your total mileage by week, month, and year. Strava also has a social element; we stay connected with many runners we meet at running clubs and out on the trails through this app.
How we researched and tested
We tested road running shoes during a 48-week ultrarunning training plan. We tested these shoes during the winter in Arizona and New Mexico and continued testing them through the spring in Utah. We ran on country roads, city streets, and paved recreation paths. Over the testing period, we ran over 600 miles through rain and snow, in temperatures ranging from 30 to 90 degrees. We did speed workouts, hill intervals, easy recovery runs, and marathon-distance long runs.
We also wore each pair of shoes when we weren’t running to see how they felt when walking around, standing, stretching, and relaxing. This helped gauge which shoes were the most comfortable and best for recovery.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He’s been a runner since he was a child when he ran five days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling.
Sam regularly runs five days or more per week. He has completed countless ultra-distance, self-supported trail runs on trails throughout the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Arizona Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in running shoes.
You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.
