- Quick glance: Best running shoes for men
- How we selected
- Full reviews
- What to consider
- Men’s running shoes Q&A
Editor’s Note, November 9, 2026: The Adidas Adizero Evo SL has been recognized as the Shoe of the Year, highly praised for its suitability for speedwork and currently available at a 20% discount. Additionally, the Adizero Adios Pro 5 has made the list, with testers noting its enhanced responsiveness compared to the previous Pro 4 model.
Many beginner runners frequently inquire, “What’s the best running shoe?” However, pinpointing a definitive answer can prove difficult. Instead of promoting one specific model, I evaluate various aspects such as the runner’s experience level and their training objectives.
Whether you’re gearing up for your first 5K, training for a marathon, or simply aiming to improve your speed or find a new shoe for running or walking, there’s an ideal option for every level. The array of choices caters to both novices and seasoned runners, accommodating different types of terrain and foot shapes.
Typically, men have access to a broader range of running shoes, as most designs are created with male foot characteristics in mind. Even unisex racing shoes may necessitate that women with smaller ankles utilize techniques like heel lock lacing to achieve a proper fit, since these shoes are generally made on a men’s last, which features a wider collar.
Selecting the right fit requires careful thought. We provide a useful guide to assist you in determining your size before making a purchase. Width is also crucial, along with the intended purpose: Are you looking for a durable trail shoe with excellent traction, or a lightweight trainer for tempo runs?
Below, we present our top 10 men’s running shoes, emphasizing key features to consider.
Quick glance: Best running shoes for men
Looking for a reliable daily trainer → Nike Pegasus 42
Searching for a mileage beast → New Balance Ellipse
A new runner → Brooks Ghost 18
Adding speedwork → Adidas Adizero Evo SL
A run/walker → On Cloudmonster 3
An overpronator → Saucony Guide 19
Injury-prone → Saucony Triumph 24
Needing a wider fit → Hoka Clifton 11
Racing a marathon → Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5
Hitting the trails → Altra Experience Wild 3
How we selected
Our recommendations were formed by insights from our editorial team and feedback gathered from our wear-tester program. We are committed to regularly updating our suggestions to reflect the changing needs of various types of runners.
While we excel at identifying top footwear and frequently refresh our lists, prices and availability can shift quickly. Our recommendations may not always be available in every size or color. We work diligently to maintain updated links so you can locate each suggested shoe as often as possible.
Full reviews
The Pegasus has made its return, and our testing confirms it was worth the wait. The newest version is more responsive and lively, equipped with a full-length Air Zoom unit. One tester remarked that “the design leans into speed.” This iteration shows considerable enhancements over its predecessor, which, while acceptable, had received comments regarding a somewhat uninspiring ride.
Nike has ensured that the Pegasus 42 delivers improved energy return. The last has also been adjusted to better accommodate wider feet.
“The Nike Pegasus 42 is a solid and stable everyday trainer. Back in 1990 when I was running cross country in high school, my very first shoe was the Nike Air Pegasus and they have made some excellent changes over the past 35 years,”
shared tester Steven Blasi.
“The Pegasus 42 is nothing like my Pegasus from my high school days,” he added. “The shoe is not too hard, not too soft, it is just right. The slight rocker bottom of the shoe made for a nice and smooth transition from heel to forefoot and the [Air Zoom unit] added the extra push.”
Nike Pegasus 42 Review
The New Balance Ellipse offers an economical choice that shines in comfort and bounce. Paul Zielinski, Senior Global Project Manager at New Balance, explained that the brand sought to capture the collective spirit of running with this shoe. Consider the Ellipse as your “Some of the shoes I ran in most recently feel more firm than these, like a gym mat. This isn’t *super* sponge-y, but more in that sweet spot of just-right firm and just-right squishy, where it stays pretty bouncy for most of the run and provides good cushioning on the landings.” designed to embody the joy of sharing enjoyable runs with friends.
This shoe features an updated version of the brand’s Fresh Foam X, crafted with new geometry for a springier feel. Although it may seem somewhat bulky—it’s not tailored for speedwork—its midsole provides a trampoline-like bounce that energizes your run.
“[The Ghost 18] is well-cushioned, especially in the heel,” stated shoe tester and Director of News Andrew Daniels. “Really noticed it on a long downhill at the end of a longer run. The foam was supportive and adequate especially for slower paces but lacked a ‘pop’ when picking up the pace.”
New Balance Ellipse Review
Opinions on the Ghost 18 varied among testers. Male participants praised its comfort and fit, noting that while the foam isn’t as responsive as other trainers, the Ghost 18 remains a dependable choice for easy workouts.
“I really like easy cruising, when I lay back on my heel and float,” remarked Photo Director John Hamilton. “I think that’s where this shoe works best, and probably why it’s going to work for newer runners and the majority of us who heel strike.”
He also noted that the toe area felt somewhat narrow, suggesting that a wider width option would address this issue (the shoe is available in wide and extra-wide, as well as narrow options).
Conversely, some female testers found the air mesh upper uncomfortable, reporting the emergence of hot spots under the big toe area. Interestingly, this iteration seems to suit men’s feet better, which is why the Ghost 18 earned recognition as Best Daily Trainer.
“I like the lightweight feel of these sneakers,” said Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate. “This helps me glide and turnover my stride at a rapid pace. I can see that training in these sneakers will most certainly increase my tempo and bring down my splits per mile.”
Brooks Ghost 18 Preview
Back in February 2025, Dengate declared the Adizero Evo SL the shoe of the year and expressed his enthusiasm for it. What led to such a strong opinion? For starters, the Lightstrike Pro foam in its midsole is the same cushioning utilized in Adidas’s highly effective competition-grade marathon shoe, the Adios Pro 4. The Evo SL replaces the Pro 4’s carbon-fiber plate with a nylon shank, providing stability in a more budget-friendly manner. Due to its exceptional value—offering significant features for just $150—and dynamic construction, the shoe has consistently made our lists. Dengate humorously noted that he was saved from snacking on shoelaces.
Minor drawbacks include the tongue shifting during runs and a narrower fit for some testers. However, these were regarded as minor inconveniences, as all agreed they would continue using the shoe, particularly for faster efforts.
“When I slid my foot into these shoes to try on at the pickup I was instantly blown away with the shear joy it was to have these shoes on my feet,” tester Ahmad Norman shared. “Needless to say there were some high expectations for them to perform just as well during run and they didn’t disappoint! Fit and feel, check, forefoot cushioning that’s soft but you can still feel the road, check, heel cushioning while walking, check, and durability, check! There wasn’t anything that felt off about these shoes.”
Adidas Adizero Evo SL Review
The Cloudmonster 3 excels at any pace, whether for leisurely walks or quicker strides. Testers were impressed by its firm yet soft Helion cushioning that provides a responsive experience for varying efforts.
This shoe incorporates On’s triple-layer CloudTec cushioning, making its bounce and support evident when observing the system of holes on its rocker shape. A Speedboard enhances propulsion and ensures a smooth push-off.
“Like its predecessor, this shoe made me feel good before even starting my runs,” said shoe tester Dave Brattley. “I just love the comfort and feel! The shoe is very soft and slips on easily. I can’t think of any other shoe that feels this great, with the possible exception of the Adidas Pureboost, but that’s going back several years.”
On Cloudmonster 3 Review
The Guide 19 retains the excellent features of its predecessor, which is a relief! It incorporates the brand’s CenterPath technology, providing a broader base and higher sidewalls for a more cradled fit that supports without feeling constrictive. Testers with wider feet appreciated how this feature accommodates the midfoot.
Pwrrun foam offers maximum cushioning, making the shoe ideal for long runs and recovery days. The rocker profile encourages quick turnover.
“I rated the Saucony Triumph 24 very highly overall because it was one of the most comfortable max-cushioned shoes I have worn,” tester Dave Block said. “The fit was excellent, the upper was comfortable, and the cushioning made it easy on my aging body. It was especially good for scenic, easy runs when I was not worried about pace and just wanted to enjoy being out there.”
Saucony Guide 19 Review
The Triumph 24 is a remarkable achievement for Saucony. This max-cushioned shoe weighs only 8.8 ounces in a men’s size 9, making it lighter than our top daily trainer, the Ghost 18. Its new IncrediLux foam provides a remarkably soft yet supportive platform.
This foam also offers high rebound, allowing for runs that begin slowly and gradually increase in tempo due to the shoe’s blend of comfort and energy return.
Testers praised the fit and comfort of this trainer. For runner Phil Nicolosi, it was all about the experience rather than the statistics on his watch.
“I loved that I could feel the foam compress and load up with each footstrike, yet feel bouncy and responsive at toe-off,” he stated. “These shoes wanted more than my legs could give.”
Saucony Triumph 24 Review
The Clifton embodies what a Hoka trainer should be: soft yet supportive cushioning, a padded and comfortable upper, and rocker geometry that facilitates smooth transitions from heel to toe. Known for their max-cushioned models, Hoka has introduced two Cliftons this year. The Clifton Pro enhances the Clifton 11, but for recommending the best men’s shoes, I will stick with the original Clifton.
The Clifton 11 feels like running with an old friend. This daily trainer is renowned for its comfort and responsive ride, comparable to the Nike Peg and Brooks Ghost. It features a compression-molded EVA midsole (CMEVA). While not as bouncy as other trainers with superior foams, it still delivers high energy return for daily miles and excellent support for longer runs. It’s also a popular choice for run/walking.
Hoka Clifton 11 Running Review | Hoka Clifton 11 Walking Review
The shoe worn by the fastest man, Sabastian Sawe, was the Adidas Adios Pro Evo 3. That shoe sold out rapidly at a price of $500. The next best option? The Adidas Adios Pro 5, which is priced approximately half as much and remains in stock.
The Pro 5 incorporates a new carbon formation in its midsole; instead of rods that mapped the footpad like the metatarsals, Adidas has introduced a carbon rim. According to the brand, this design results in a weight reduction of 12.5 percent. Testers found the updated technology to be even more explosive than the Pro 4. The ride is lively and offers an aggressive yet stable bounce thanks to the enhanced Lightstrike Pro foam, which is slightly firmer.
Dengate praised the shoe’s performance during a speed workout, despite being outpaced. “[The Experience Wild 3] takes the shoe to the next level with a redesigned upper that fits more generously but doesn’t make you feel like you are swimming around, plusher cushioning that absorbs firmer ground yet remains stable, and a lug pattern on the MaxTrac outsole that I felt was superior to each of the previous models in terms of grip,” he remarked. “These shoes demanded more than my legs could provide.”
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 Review
The Experience Wild 3 features supportive cushioning without sacrificing ground feel, with 3.5mm lugs that grip loose terrain and a comfortable fit that allows for toe splay while on the trail.
With a 4mm drop, it’s an appropriate choice for runners not ready to commit to zero-drop but still interested in exploring low-drop options. The upper includes a protective toe sweep and gaiter attachments.
“[The Experience Wild 3] elevates the shoe with a redesigned upper that fits more generously without feeling loose, plusher cushioning that absorbs firmer ground while maintaining stability, and a superior lug pattern on the MaxTrac outsole that enhances grip compared to previous models,” tester John Mikovits said.
The shoe is also available with a Vibram Megagrip outsole.
Altra Experience Wild 3 Review
What to consider
When selecting running shoes, consider factors such as fit, cushioning, and intended use. Each runner has unique needs, and understanding these can help in making the right choice.
Men’s running shoes Q&A
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered topics in the running field for nearly a decade. Since 2013, she has consistently participated in the Boston Marathon. She holds a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before transitioning to writing.