Workout shoes are not all created equal. When lifting large weights, the appropriate training shoes can help you stay more secure and grounded. The purpose of the best running shoes is to make a marathon seem like a mile.Pickleball shoes—you understand.
The NBC Select team has competed in half-marathons, marathons, 10Ks, and 5Ks. I talked to medical and fitness experts to have a better idea of what to look for when searching for the best men’s running shoes available. After that, I drove dozens of the best models around New York City.
GO Ahead and SkipMen’s running shoes of 2025: the best daily trainers, the most supporting shoes, the best cushioned shoes, the best tempo shoes, the best race day shoes, how to buy men’s running shoes, and why to trust NBC Select
Selected.
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Best daily trainerNew Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
$undefined$164.59Amazon
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Best cushionedBrooks Glycerin Max
$undefined$199.99Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Best for wide feet and bunionsHoka Clifton 9
$145.00$145.00Hoka
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Best for arch supportBrooks Adrenaline GTS 24
$undefined$139.95Amazon
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Related
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How we picked the best men s running shoes
Hundreds of running shoes from numerous major manufacturers are available on the market. To assist me define what makes the ideal couple, I talked to experts.
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Size:
Fit is the most important part of any pair of running shoes, according to our experts. That s why I highlighted shoes with inclusive sizes and widths. I also included sizing information below each recommendation. -
Cushioning
: A comfortable footbed, with a supportive insole and midsole, is another essential, says Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder ofGotham Footcare
. The insole and midsole are between the upper and lower section of the shoe. Insoles made with memory foam or a shock-absorbing EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) can help to support the arch and reduce impact on your joints.
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Price:
Running shoes can be expensive. I included options across a range of price points between $65 and $260.
How I tried men s running shoes
For the past five years, running has been a regular element of my exercise regimen. I usually run outside on pavement two or three times a week because I live in New York City. I use a fitness tracker to help me keep track of my pace as I cover three to seven kilometers. Since they lessen knee problems more than other shoes I’ve tested, I usually favor cushioned shoes with neutral support. I wear a size 10 shoe with a medium width.
I stick to my regular schedule and wear new running shoes for at least a week before deciding to try them. To assess how the shoes handle varying speeds and distances, I run at least one long run, one tempo run, and one regular run.
The best running shoes for men in 2025
A combination of knowledgeable NBC Select employees and firsthand referrals from companies like Asics, Brooks, Hoka, and Saucony make up our suggestions. There are dozens of models available from each brand; this is not a comprehensive list of all the shoes you might like or not like from these brands.
We only suggest road running footwear. Our guides to trail running shoes and hiking shoes include shoes for tough terrain.
The best daily trainer running shoes
Best overall:
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
- Ample cushioning
- Rocker-style outsole
- Inclusive sizing
- Not the best for speedwork
Myself and several other NBC Select employees adore the New Balance Fresh Foam X line for everyday walking, running, and everything in between. Jordan Bowman, the commerce editor for NBC Select, wears the most recent 1080v14 on the majority of his runs since it is a shoe that balances comfort, cushioning, weight, and speed. They are great for running a leisurely pace over long distances on hard pavement, yet being more cushioned than many everyday trainers. On uneven ground and in bad weather, the outsole’s somewhat knobby tread provides more traction and confidence.
Additionally, among our suggested shoe sizes and widths, this one offers some of the most inclusive selections.
Available widths: narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide; heel drop: 6mm; weight: 10.5 oz (298g); sizes: 7–16
Runner-up:
Asics Novablast 5
Asics Novablast 5
- Balance of comfort and speed
- Comfortable, flexible upper
- Fabric loop on heel and upper
- So-so traction
Compared to the extremely cushioned sensation of the New Balance Fresh Foam, this Asics model is more responsive and lively underfoot and works well for all-around training at most speeds. The shoe is enough wide to prevent pressure points and sufficiently cushioned to support longer runs without feeling unsteady. Additionally, the top of the upper and the rear of the heel feature fabric loops that facilitate slipping the shoe on, just like many Asics models.
I can feel the ground more as I run, mostly in the toe box, than with the extremely cushioned New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14. This makes it simpler to push off for a quick burst of speed. Nevertheless, depending on your distance and impact tolerance, there is some straining.
Available sizes are 6–15, widths are medium and wide, heel drop is 8 mm, and weight is 9 oz (255 g).
Best for beginners:
Brooks Ghost 16
Brooks Ghost 16
- All-purpose fit
- Inclusive sizing
- Nothing at this time
Over the years, I’ve worn the 16s as well as a few other Brooks Ghost models. They are among my top picks for runners who are just starting out or who aren’t sure what they need from a running shoe. They feature enough cushioning to last the distance, enough support to be comfortable, and enough toe box space to fit a variety of foot shapes, making them well-balanced for all types of running. They also come in a wide variety of colors and four width options.
Weight: 9.5 oz (269.3 g) | Sizes: 7-15 | Widths: narrow, medium, broad, and extra wide | Heel drop: 12 mm
Best budget:
Saucony Cohesion 17
Saucony Cohesion 17
- Low price point
- Versatile
- Not the best for long-distance
Cunha suggests the Saucony Cohesion range if you’re searching for a less expensive running shoe. According to Cunha, they are supportive, comfortable, long-lasting, and offer excellent shock absorption for daily running. At just $65, they are the least expensive of all our best choices.
Available sizes are 7–15, widths are medium and wide, heel drop is 12 mm, and the weight is 8.5 oz (240g).
The best cushioned running shoes
Best overall:
Brooks Glycerin Max
Brooks Glycerin Max
- Ultra-cushioned feel
- Comfortable upper and laces
- Rocker-shaped outsole
- One width option
- Pricey
My go-to running shoes for comfortable, consistent miles—especially on pavement—are these. These are some of Brooks’ most cushioned running shoes, and because of their tall stack height, I stand out from the crowd. In my experience, they feel a little lighter than they actually are because of their little rocker shape and respectable energy return, even if their design is centered around cushions.
These shoes aren’t fast. When I wear these shoes instead of lightweight tempo shoes, my mile times are slower. However, I always feel at ease and content when I run with these shoes. The laces never unintentionally came loose while I was running, and the mesh upper feels good on the top of my foot.
Sizes: 7–15 | Medium widths | 6 mm heel drop | 10.5 oz (298 g) weight
Runner-up:
Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- All-around cushioning
- Inclusive sizing
- Heavy
Regardless of the distance, I hardly ever experience knee or joint pain when running in these maximum cushion shoes. The elastic tongue, soft knit lining around the upper, and additional padding around the ankle make them incredibly comfortable at every touch point—all the places your foot comes into contact with the shoe. Additionally, they are simple to put on and take off thanks to an outside loop close to the heel.
On our list, these are the heaviest shoes. These are a fantastic choice for long, steady miles pounding pavement or recovery runs, but I wouldn’t suggest them for breaking any personal records during a race.
Available sizes are 6–16; widths are medium, wide, and extra wide; heel drop is 8 mm; and the weight is 10.8 oz (305g).
The best supportive running shoes
Best for wide feet and bunions:
Hoka Clifton 9
Hoka Clifton 9
- Spacious toe box
- Relatively lightweight
- Low-swooping ankle cutout
These sneakers, which won the 2023 NBC Select Wellness Awards, were suggested by Cunha. They are hefty, padded shoes with a large, roomy toe box.For those who have bunions or wide feet, Cunha suggests them. According to Cunha, the seamless elastic upper mesh lessens strain and friction on bunions during running.
The big toe-box never caused my toes to scrunch, even though I don’t have wide feet. Additionally, they are far lighter than our selection of cushioned shoes.
Sizes offered:7-16 |Widths:medium, wide |Heel drop:5mm |Weight: 8.7 oz (246.6g)
Best for arch support:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
- Excellent arch support
- Inclusive sizing
- Nothing at this time
For anyone who requires dependable arch support, Cunha suggests the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24. He points to the shoes EVA foam midsole, running from the heel to the front of the shoe. This midsole increases cushioning and adds pronation control, says Cunha. If you tend to roll your foot inward (overpronate) or outward (underpronate), this pronation control can help guide and balance your stride.
All Brooks GTS shoes have extra support around the rear of the shoe to reduce excess movement and help keep your stride natural and neutral, according to the brand. I ve worn both Adrenaline and Adrenaline GTS shoes before. I found that the GTS version did help me keep a more natural stride.
Sizes offered:7-16 |Widths:narrow, medium, wide, extra wide |Heel drop:12mm |Weight: 10.1 oz (286.3g)
The best tempo running shoes
Best overall:
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
- Very lightweight
- Fast and energetic feel
- One width option
The Saucony Endorphin Speed series has long been a favorite tempo shoe for runners on team NBC Select, both men and women. They are the lightest non-race shoes on our list, and feel like it they are light, fast and bouncy. The shape naturally rolls from step to step, encouraging a speedy pace standing still or running slowly felt unnatural. Part of that speed comes from the winged nylon plate in the footbed, which delivers energy return without being quite as stiff as a carbon-plated race shoe.
Sizes offered:7-15 |Widths:medium |Heel drop:8mm |Weight: 8.1 oz (229g)
Runner-up:
Hoka Mach 6
Hoka Mach 6
- Fast, but with some cushioning
- Lightweight
- Hoka signature high heel tab
The Mach 6 is one of Hoka s latest speed shoes, and has a new foam midsole and redesigned collar and tongue area. The tongue is thin and light, and sewn together in a way that wraps around your foot, helping it stay in place during bursts of speed.
These shoes strike a great balance between cushion and responsiveness I feel fast, but not so connected to the pavement that every nook and cranny feels like a surprise. They seem a little more durable than the Endorphin Speed 3s, but have a relatively lowheel dropof 5 millimeters that might not be for everyone.
Sizes offered:7-14 |Widths:medium, wide |Heel drop:5mm |Weight: 8.2 oz (232g)
The best race day running shoes
Expert pick:
Nike Vaporfly 3
Nike Vaporfly 3
- Responsive carbon plate
- Ultra lightweight
- One width option
- Pricey
If you want to splurge on marathon-day running shoes, Cunha recommends these Nike Vaporfly 3. They are the lightest shoes on our list by far at 7.1 ounces, but don t sacrifice durability and have a comfortable, responsive foam midsole, says Cunha. Inside is a full length carbon fiber plate, a common addition to race shoes that helps propel you forward and feels a bit stiffer underfoot.
Sizes offered:6-15 |Widths:medium |Heel drop:8mm |Weight: 7.1 oz (200g)
Related
Are women s running shoes really different from men s? A podiatrist explains
How to shop for men s running shoes
There are hundreds of running shoes to choose from in the men s section alone. Our experts highlighted a few essential things to keep in mind as you shop for your next favorite pair.
Try them on in-person
Both Cunha and Zach Moxham, a certified personal trainer atPhysical Equilibriumin New York City, recommend going to a local running shoe store for the best fit possible. Specialty running shoe stores tend to have knowledgeable staff who can better inform you about running shoe options and recommendations, says Cunha. They also typically have more measuring tools to take advantage of, including foot scans, gait analysis and treadmill analysis try everything and anything, says Moxham.
Fit is crucial
A poor-fitting running shoe isn t going to be comfortable, no matter how stylish it may look.
If you plan to buy shoes in person, buy them at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen, says Cunha. That s because if they feel comfortable when your feet are most swollen, they will likely feel comfortable throughout the day.
Cunha also says to try on at least three different models of shoe, even two different models at the same time, one on each foot, to get a good feel for the fit.
Pay special attention to the toe box the area around your toes, says Cunha and Moxham.
Make sure there is enough room to slightly wiggle your toes, says Cunha. If you can t move your toes at all then the shoes are too tight and will eventually become painful. The tip of your thumb should fit between the end of the shoe and the end of your longest toe.
Frequently asked questions
Training shoesand stylish sneakers look similar to some running shoes, but functionally, they are very different. Running shoes have a stiffer, more shock-absorbing sole that is suited to higher-impact activity, says Cunha. They also guide your motion to increase stability and the proper alignment of your foot. Plus, running shoes minimize fatigue, as they are lighter than other types of shoes.
Finding the perfect pair of running shoes can be liberating I know I like running a lot more when I am doing it in my favorite shoes. But regardless of how attached you get to one pair, it s important to replace your running shoes every six months or so.
Good sneakers are designed to last for 300 to 500 miles, says Cunha. It doesn t matter if they still look new: if the support is worn out, you re at a much higher risk of injury.
To keep track of when it s time to replace your shoes, note the date you buy a new pair, and keep track of that six-month interval, says Cunha.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
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Miguel Cunha
is a podiatrist and founder of
Gotham Footcare
in New York.
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Zach Moxham
is a certified personal trainer at
Physical Equilibrium
in New York City and a certified training and running coach for
Road Runners Club of America
and
New York Road Runners
.
Why trust NBC Select?
I m areporterat NBC Select who covers technology and fitness including guides tofitness trackers,workout earbuds,cycling shoesand more. To better understand running shoes and their complexities, I spoke with fitness experts and medical professionals. I also tried over a dozen running shoes, incorporating them into my weekly fitness routine.
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