Running shoes just keep getting better year after year, with brands rolling out some of the most impressive running shoe technologies we’ve seen yet. From next-level foams and lighter carbon plates to smarter stability features and more sustainable materials, running shoe brands are pushing performance further than ever before. Whether you’re chasing a new PB, training for race day, or just starting out as a runner, the right pair of shoes can make a huge difference to both your performance and recovery.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the standout models worth your attention this year. Looking at what makes each shoe shine, from cushioning and bounce to fit and support, so you can find a pair that matches your running style and goals. With clear, honest insight into some of the best running shoes on the market right now, we’re here to help you make 2026 your best running year yet.
Why buying the right running shoes matters
Buying the right running shoes can make a bigger difference than you might think. The right pair won’t just feel more comfortable but can actually improve how you run. When you pick a trainer that matches your foot type, gait, and running goals, you’ll likely feel less fatigued and more supported from start to finish. It’s all about making each run feel as smooth and natural as possible, not like you’re fighting against your footwear.
Getting the balance right between cushioning, support, and responsiveness can help you maintain better form and let you train or race with more confidence. Whether you’re covering short, fast sessions or longer distances, wearing a running shoe designed for your specific needs can help boost performance, reduce injury risk, and keep you consistent, which is what really leads to the long-term enjoyment of running.
On the flip side, the wrong running shoe can cause problems over time. A poor fit, not enough support, or cushioning that doesn’t suit your stride can put extra stress on your muscles and joints. This is when those niggles start creeping in that can potentially lead to issues like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, or knee and back pain. If you’re not sure what to look for, our blog on how to pick the right running shoes for your feet dives deeper into the features that matter the most based on your foot type and gait.
If you’d rather get a personalised opinion, we offer a free in-store gait analysis to help you understand your running style and find trainers that will support you best.
Best Neutral Everyday Running Shoes
If you’re new to running or just looking for a comfortable everyday trainer, neutral running shoes are usually the way to go, so long as you have a neutral gait. Designed to support your natural stride without adding extra corrective features, these trainers let your foot move naturally, while still giving you the cushioning and protection you need. Most neutral trainers have a lighter, more flexible feel with balanced cushioning to soften impact while still allowing your foot to move freely. They’re a great option if your foot shape is neither extremely flat nor highly arched, because the design is built for a broad range of foot types without any rigid structural elements.
When choosing a neutral, everyday trainer, here are a few key features to look out for:
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A responsive midsole foam that feels cushioned but still gives a bit of bounce back.
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A secure, comfortable upper that holds your foot in place without rubbing.
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A durable outsole that can handle the miles on the surface you run on most often.
So if you have a neutral gait - meaning your foot doesn’t excessively roll inward (pronate) or outward (supinate) during your stride, and you’re after a dependable, do-it-all trainer, some standout options worth considering this year are:
Saucony Endorphin Azura - £139.90
Women's Saucony Endorphin Azura
The Saucony Endorphin Azura is great if you’re looking for a pair of shoes that feel lively underfoot but still comfortable enough to wear daily. They combine soft cushioning with a responsive ride, making them ideal for everything from steady runs to picking up the pace when you feel good. They’re the kind of trainers that make your runs feel effortless thanks to the PWRRUN PB premium foam midsole. Designed to compress under load and then quickly return to shape, this foam gives you that extra push you need. The SpeedRoll technology of the curved sole is made to gently tip you forward from heel to toe to guide you smoothly into the next stride.
Asics Gel Nimbus 28 - £179.90
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 28 is a great choice if you want a reliable everyday running shoe that puts comfort first without feeling overly soft. They’re perfect for recovery runs and daily training, giving you a smooth, cushioned ride that feels consistent no matter the distance. The updated FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning gives the shoe a soft, protective feel underfoot while still keeping transitions smooth and responsive. Combined with the PureGEL™ technology in the heel, it helps absorb impact nicely and keeps longer runs feeling comfortable on your legs. The knit upper also adds to that plush feel, keeping your foot secure without feeling restrictive.
Brooks Glycerin 23 - £147.90
The Brooks Glycerin 23 is a great option if you’re after a super comfortable everyday running shoe that just feels easy to get along with from the first run. It’s made for neutral runners who want plenty of soft cushioning underfoot without it feeling unstable or overly complicated. What really stands out here is how plush and smooth it feels. The updated DNA TUNED cushioning gives you that soft landing when your foot hits the ground, while still keeping transitions feeling steady and controlled so you’re not sinking into the shoe.
There’s also a slightly higher stack of foam compared to previous versions, which just adds to that cushioned, protected feel over longer distances. The engineered upper perfectly balances the cushioning, giving you a secure fit that feels comfortable straight away, while the wide, stable platform helps keep your stride feeling balanced and confident. It’s the kind of shoe you can just lace up and rely on for day-to-day running without overthinking it.
Best Everyday Support Running Shoes
If you need a bit more stability from your running shoes, support trainers are a great everyday option. Designed to help guide your stride and reduce overpronation, this style of running shoe gives you that much-needed extra structure and support without feeling overly heavy or restrictive. Most support shoes are much softer and more comfortable than they used to be, with many now feeling just as cushioned and responsive as neutral trainers.
Support running shoes are ideal if you find your ankles rolling in as you run, often experience discomfort through your arches, knees, or hips, or simply prefer a more stable feel on longer runs. They’re built to provide a secure, balanced ride while still keeping things smooth and comfortable. When choosing an everyday support trainer, here are a few key features to look out for:
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A stable midsole that offers support without feeling too firm.
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Soft, cushioned foam that keeps your runs comfortable while still feeling responsive.
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A secure upper fit that helps lock your foot in place and adds confidence through each stride.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 - £144.90
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is one of our most popular supportive running shoes, and a staple for runners seeking a reliable, versatile option that gives the right amount of support and cushioning. Whether you’re building up your distance or just starting your running journey, these running shoes offer consistent comfort and support to those who struggle with overpronation and need that support to keep you going.
Featuring nitrogen-infused cushioning in the heel and forefoot and smart support technology, these trainers offer both breathability and structure, making them a great everyday supportive option that you can count on for steady, feel-good runs week after week.
Best Max Cushioned Running Shoes
If comfort is your top priority, max-cushioned running shoes are hard to beat. They’re especially great for runners who tend to heel strike, as the extra cushioning helps soak up impact and takes some of the stress off your joints, particularly when going longer distances. They’re also a solid choice for easing back into running after an injury, as the softer ride reduces pressure on sensitive areas like the knees and hips.
Even neutral runners who crave a plush feel for long training days can benefit from the forgiving nature of max cushioning. Our blog on max cushioning running shoes goes into more detail on this style to see if it’s the right fit for you.
If you’re all about comfort, and want a smooth cushioned ride, here are some of our most popular max cushioned trainers:
MagMax Nitro 2 Running Shoes - £169.90
The Puma MagMax Nitro 2 gives you a seriously plush underfoot feel without sacrificing any energy return, making them ideal for longer runs where comfort is key, but lively enough to keep you moving efficiently. The combination of the stack of NITROFOAM™ cushioning and PUMAGRIP outsole provides steady traction and smooth transitions to keep you going mile after mile.
The NITROFOAM™ midsole infuses nitrogen into it to create a lighter, more resilient foam that gives you ultimate cushioning and responsiveness. The PUMAGRIP outsole uses a tough, rubber compound that gives you reliable grip when running on a variety of surfaces. Together, both of these things can make runs feel more comfortable and stable.
Glycerin Max 2 Running Shoes - £161.90
The Brooks Glycerin Max running shoes are perfect for those who want a super-soft ride. Built for comfort-first running, these trainers are ideal for long, steady sessions and recovery runs where your legs need that extra bit of care. Featuring a GlideRoll™ Rocker to help smooth heel-to-toe transitions, and stacked cushioning, these shoes effortlessly reduce impact.
Bondi 9 Running Shoes - £159.90
The HOKA Bondi 9 running shoes are another great go-to option for extreme cushioning. Featuring a thick EVA foam midsole, smooth MetaRocker™ and a molded EVA sockliner, these shoes are designed to help you glide through your stride with minimal impact. EVA foams are what you’ll find give most running shoes that soft, spongy layer between the outsole and the footbed. The tiny air bubbles inside the foam help create a lightweight feel that reduces the impact on your feet and joints when running.
The EVA sockliner is the footbed of the shoe that moulds to the shape of your foot to provide extra comfort and support where you need it most, for example under the arch of your foot, or heel. The MetaRocker™ is the rounded shape of the shoe that encourages your foot to roll forward naturally, giving you that smooth forward motion, helping you run with less effort and muscle strain.
Keep in mind that max-cushioned styles aren’t for everyone. If you prefer a very responsive, close-to-ground feel, a less-cushioned shoe is likely better for you. If you need significant stability support, particularly if you overpronate, you might find that a shoe that has both cushioning and support is better suited.
Best Off-Road & Trail Running Shoes
If you’re planning to swap pavements for forest paths, a proper pair of off-road, trail running shoes is a must. Built for uneven, unpredictable terrains, these trainers are all about grip, stability and protection, so you can head off-road without second-guessing every step. Whether you’re weaving through woodlands, climbing rocky mountain routes, or trudging across muddy fields, these trainers are made to keep you steady so you can enjoy the views.
The real hero of any good trail shoe is the outsole. You’ll usually spot tough rubber with deep, chunky lugs that help you dig into loose dirt, wet routes, and slippery rocks. That extra grip makes uphill running feel more secure, and downhill sections a lot less sketchy when it comes to your footing.
Protection matters too. Many trail shoes come with rock plates and reinforced toe bumpers to help guard against stones and debris. The uppers are usually tougher as well, and are made from abrasion-resistant materials, with some even including waterproof layers to keep your feet dry.
Experience Wild 3+ Trail Running Shoes - £129.90
Women’s Altra Experience Wild 3+
The Altra Experience Wild 3+ trainers are a great choice if you want a natural-feeling ride with serious grip. Built to handle varied terrain while still giving you comfort, these shoes feature a Vibram® Megagrip outsole with Traction Lug and an integrated toe bumper combined with Altra EGO™ P35 midsole foam to give you a light and efficient ride.
The Vibram® Megagrip outsole is made from high-performance rubber that gives you reliable grip in lots of different conditions, including wet and dry terrain. Combined with the shape and design of the lugs, which are the bits of rubber that stick out on the sole of the shoe, these shoes give incredible traction and stability. The toe bumper at the front of the shoe is made specifically to give you additional protection for your toes against rocks, roots, and other obstacles, whilst the Altra EGO™ P35 midsole foam gives you a comfortable, cushioned feel.
Speedgoat 7 Trail Running Shoes - £144.90
Women's Speedgoat 7 Trail Running Shoes
The HOKA Speedgoat 7 trainers are a go-to for tough terrains, with aggressive grip and light cushioning, they strike the perfect balance between protection and comfort. These shoes are particularly popular for longer trail runs and more technical routes where stability and traction really matter.
Peregrine 16 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes - £159.90
Women’s Peregrine 16 Trail Running Shoes
The Saucony Peregrine 16 GORE-TEX running shoes are ideal if you’re running in wet or muddy conditions, as the GORE-TEX lining keeps your feet dry while still delivering reliable grip. It’s a versatile trail shoe that can handle a mix of surfaces well, making it a solid all-rounder for off-road adventures.
Keep in mind that uneven surfaces have the potential to cause injury, like bruised feet or twisted ankles if you’re wearing the wrong trainers, which is why trail shoes are a must. If you regularly take to the trails, here are some of this year’s best off-road trail running shoes to inspire you to make your off-road adventures safer, more stable, and a lot more fun.
Best Running Shoes for Marathons and Racing
If you’re after speed, responsiveness, and that effortless, lightweight feel, then racer running shoes are what you need. Made to be lightweight, responsive, and help you move as efficiently as possible, these running shoes strip away unnecessary bulk but still pack in the tech you need to stay comfortable over the miles. These shoes are best for runners who’ve already built a solid training base and understand their stride. If you’re aiming for a marathon or adding faster sessions into your training, a dedicated race shoe can give you that extra edge.
Key features of racing shoes that set them apart from other styles are:
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Super-light uppers, usually made from breathable mesh that creates a barely-there feel.
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High-performance foams that help you transition quickly from landing to toe-off, perfect for tempo runs and intervals.
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Carbon plates to increase propulsion and efficiency at higher speeds without adding weight.
If you’re ready to pick up the pace, and are looking for a snappy, forward-driving run that feels quick and powerful, the PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4 and Under Armour Hyperwarp Elite are some of the best racing shoes around at the moment.
Deviate Nitro Elite 4 Running Shoes - £209.90
Men’s PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4
Women’s PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4
The PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 4 are built for speed. Lightweight and highly responsive, these shoes are ideal for runners who want a propulsive feel without sacrificing too much cushioning. Featuring a carbon fibre PWRPLATE and NITROFOAM ELITE cushioning, these shoes ensure stability and maximum running efficiency, giving you a more aggressive, race-focused stride. The carbon fibre PWRPLATE gives you that stiff and strong midsole that is still lightweight, acting like a springboard, helping push you forward with each step. The NITROFOAM is made with nitrogen-infused thermoplastic foam that compresses under impact, helping to reduce any stress on your joints when running, keeping your runs light and springy.
Hyperwarp Elite Running Shoes - £234.90
The Mizuno Hyperwarp Elite running shoes combine a streamlined upper made from MONOFILAMENT WOVEN fabrics for a barely-there feel, with a responsive 3D carbon plate and MIZUNO ENERZY XP midsole to create a truly race-ready experience. The MONOFILAMENT WOVEN fabrics create that light, flexible upper to give you breathability and room to stretch, whilst the MIZUNO ENERZY XP midsole gives you that snappy springboard feeling to push you through each stride. Designed to encourage quick turnover, these trainers feel sharp and energetic, built to help you hold pace and stay efficient when it matters most.
Race shoes are not always the best choice for every run; they may feel a bit too firm on easy running days, or may not provide enough cushioning for runners who prefer a softer ride. But when it’s time to sharpen your pace or race to the finish line, the best lightweight and racer running shoes bring that extra spring to your stride and make every second count.
Best Tempo Running Shoes
Tempo running shoes sit in that sweet spot between comfort and speed - they’re light enough to help you feel fast, but cushioned enough to handle a few solid miles at maximum effort. The best tempo shoes have a responsive, bouncy feel underfoot that helps you lock into a rhythm and stay there. Ideal for threshold runs, progression sessions, and those workouts where you’re pushing hard but want to stay controlled, this style of trainer is perfect.
The uppers on these shoes tend to be lightweight and breathable, but still secure enough that your foot doesn’t move around once you pick up the pace. They’re great for runners who want one versatile shoe that can handle faster efforts without feeling too aggressive. Some of the best tempo running shoes on the market at the moment are the PUMA Deviate Nitro 4 and the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 trainers.
Deviate Nitro 4 Running Shoes - £149.90
The PUMA Deviate Nitro 4 is a go-to for those days when you want a quick, smooth and fun run. Borrowing tech that is more typical for race shoes, like carbon composite PWRPLATES for propulsion, and layers of nitrogen-infused foam for lightweight responsiveness and cushioning, these tempo shoes are ideal for helping you hit your PBs.
Adizero Boston 13 Running Shoes - £139.90
The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 are made for those who strive to push the limits of speed and performance. With a regular fit design for a snug, distraction-free wear, these trainers provide a lightweight, breathable feel, with LightStrikePro cushioning giving you that support in each stride. Whether you're setting personal records or training for a long-distance race, these iconic running trainers from adidas let you do it in style.
Best Shoes for HYROX
HYROX isn’t just a run, and that’s exactly why your shoes need to be up to the challenge of more than just pounding the pavement. The best shoes for HYROX are built to handle a bit of everything - running, sled pushes, lunges, burpees, and rowing. You need something that feels comfortable throughout the running segments but stable enough when you’re driving through the heavier, strength-focused movements.
A good HYROX shoe should have a balanced midsole that isn’t overly soft so that you still have the stability you need during sled work, but it shouldn’t be rock hard and restrictive either. A secure upper that locks your foot in place is a must for when you’re transitioning quickly between stations, along with a solid grip on the outsole, especially when you’re moving between different surfaces like gym flooring and turf. Our top pick for this style of trainer is the Puma Deviate HYROX Elite running shoes.
Puma Deviate HYROX Elite - £188.90
The Deviate HYROX Elite is built for the fast pace and constant transitions of HYROX racing. With dual-layer NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning and a carbon PWRPLATE, it gives you a responsive, propulsive feel to help you push the pace on every 1km run. The PUMAGRIP outsole adds extra traction and stability for sled pushes and lunges, making these trainers a reliable all-rounder option when you need speed, grip, and confidence on race day.
Deviate Nitro Elite 3 HYROX Running Shoes - £149.90
Women’s Deviate Nitro Elite 3 HYROX Shoe
The Deviate Nitro Elite 3 trainers are worn by some of the world’s fastest HYROX athletes, and are designed to help you take your top speed to a level you never imagined. Featuring NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning, which offers the best-in-class responsiveness and energy return, plus a stiff carbon fibre PWRPLATE to give you structure and stability, these shoes are a must-have when competing.
Hit the ground running with Start Fitness
Browse through our full running shoes collection to discover more of the best trainers from top sportswear brands on the market this year, designed to support you on your running journey at any level, across all terrains.
