The good news is that shopping for a running belt isn’t too complicated or expensive. To help fast-track your search, we’ve tested nearly 20 of the best options on the market and scored our picks based on fit, durability, and more. The result is this list of the best running belts out there, all expert-approved.

The Best Running Belts of 2024

• Best Overall Running Belt: Inov-8 Race Elite Waist
• Best Budget Running Belt: New Balance Running Stretch Belt
• Best Reflective Running Belt: SPIBelt Reflective
• Best Running Belt With Storage: Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt
• Best Running Belt for Hydration: Nathan Sports TrailMix Plus 3.0
• Best Running Belt for All Body Types: Salomon Pulse

How We Tested and Chose the Best Running Belts

The BarBend team is full of athletes, certified trainers, and CrossFit coaches who’ve tested a lot of gear while logging miles. That includes sneakers, treadmills, running headphones, and — yep — running belts. Take our expert reviewer, certified personal trainer Kate Meier, for example: “I’ve been using running belts for about two decades. They have been invaluable, especially in my marathon days when I had a lot to carry with me on runs.” We’ve tried nearly 20 different running belts over the years, scoring them on a scale 1 (woof) to 5 (yay!) to arrive at these six picks. Knowing what distinguishes a good running belt from a crappy one, we kept a close eye on these key factors when compiling this list.

For more on how we test products, check out the BarBend equipment testing methodology.

• Materials: A running belt made with low-quality materials (or simply the wrong ones for the job) will likely jostle while you run, crumble under the elements, and allow sweat or rain to seep inside. We looked for belts made from materials that are resistant to water and sweat, breathable, and stretchy. We also considered the quality of the zippers and ripstop mesh when making our picks. 
• Adjustability: Not only do you need a running belt that fits, but you also need to be able to adjust it when you’re wearing different clothing underneath or strapping in for different types of workouts. “A belt that doesn’t fit well is so annoying,” Meier says. “The constant jostling and movement of the belt is a distraction and can sometimes cause friction burns depending on where you wear it.” 
• Storage: “My belt serves one main purpose: Hold my stuff,” Meier says. A running belt should have a secure pocket for your phone and keys, and for longer runs, additional space for nutrition, hydration, and extra layers may be necessary.
• Hydration Capabilities: When running a half marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon, the ability to carry hydration on a running belt is key. When making our picks, we tested belts with built-in hydration capabilities and pockets for water bottles. 

Best Overall Running Belt: Inov-8 Race Elite Waist

Inov8 Race Elite Waist

Inov8 Race Elite Waist

For those who love to run trails or generally enjoy long-distance running, the Inov8 Race Elite Waist has plenty of space for intra-workout fuel. This pack has zero bounce and can hold snacks and even a small water bottle.

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This waist belt from Inov-8 seems to have it all, including (literal) bells and whistles you probably didn’t know you needed. And somehow, it’s still one of the cheaper options on this list, coming in at just $30. This features-for-dollar ratio is exactly what makes it our pick for the best running belt overall.

Let’s start with the basics: The zippered main compartment offers a whopping 3 liters’ worth of space, including a separate pocket for a 500-milliliter soft flask. There are loops for poles and stretchy outer mesh pockets for easy-grab items, plus bungee compression straps that can be tightened when you’re not carrying much (which helps eliminate bounce) or used to secure extra layers without taking up pocket space. 

“I like the combination of snaps, zipper, and Velcro to keep different sections closed. It makes it much more secure and gives me one less thing to worry about,” says Alex Polish, a BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer who put this running belt to the test, scoring it 4 out of 5 overall.

Speaking of bounce, there shouldn’t be much of that. This is thanks to the unique dual-strap design with adjustable length and plastic buckle closure. Adjusting the straps can be a little tricky to figure out at first, but once you get the hang of it, the fit is great, Polish says, giving it a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort. “The only pain point is that my wife doesn’t really recommend it for sprinting. It’s much better for steady-state running workouts (it flops around a little too much with faster sprints).”

Polish gave the belt a solid 4 out of 5 for durability, too. The outer fabric is water resistant and the inner side is made of a breathable stretch mesh to allow for airflow. This running belt even comes with lifetime warranties on the waterproof GORE-TEX membrane and HYDRAPAK construction, plus a 12-month warranty from INOV-8. Finally, about that whistle: This running belt comes with an emergency whistle in case of emergency. 

Best Budget Running Belt: New Balance Running Stretch Belt

New Balance Running Stretch Belt

New Balance Running Stretch Belt

The New Balance Running Stretch Belt is completely adjustable and allows you to take your phone, wallet, keys, or energy gels on-the-go. It's also a stretchy polyester with one size fitting most. 

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If you’re just getting started with running or aren’t sold on the whole belt concept yet, it can make sense to try a budget running belt first. This New Balance model is a great minimalist option; it has a single, stretchy main compartment that can fit your must-haves and costs the same as a month of Amazon Prime at $14.99.

Our tester, BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings, rated it a 3.5 out of 5 overall. The highlights? For one, this running belt is just so darn affordable — it’s probably cheaper than any other item you’ll wear to head out on a run. Also, “it’s incredibly light and small,” Cummings says, so it could be a good low-profile pick if you don’t want to feel weighed down while doing a sprint workout, but need a place to stash your keys or a credit card.

Since it’s so small, however, you can’t fit a lot inside. Cummings said he was able to fit his iPhone SE, but not much more. “I was able to squeeze my phone and keys in it, but that was about maximum capacity for this belt,” he says, giving it a 2 out of 5 for pocket size and a 3 out of 5 for functionality. 

He also found that the belt can slide up while you’re running. “During my run, the strap kept riding up too far above my hips. I had to continually slide it back down to a comfortable position,” he says. Truthfully, whether or not a running belt stays put is highly personal — for example, a reviewer on the New Balance site reports no issues with it moving around. This is all to say that it can take some trial and error to see which type is most comfortable for you.

“Overall, this running belt worked fine, but it was a bit uncomfortable and the pocket is very small,” Cummings said. At such an affordable price point, it’s a worthwhile buy for beginner runners or those trying a belt for the first time.

Best Reflective Running Belt: SPIBelt Reflective

SPI Reflective Running Belt

SPI Reflective Running Belt

This SPI Running Belt is reflective, ideal for those who want to run safely during the early morning or evening hours. It also won't bounce or shift as you run and holds all your must-have running essentials.

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Wearing reflective clothing can help you be visible while running in the morning or at night. A reflective running belt like the SPIBelt can help. (Alone, though, it likely isn’t enough; research shows that pedestrians are better perceived by drivers when they’re wearing reflective clothing on moving joints, which helps convey that it’s a human moving.) (1) Still, if you’re in the market for a running belt, it makes sense to get one that’ll keep you visible no matter what time you head out. 

Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier has worn the SPIBelt Reflective for more than 20 hours of interval running workouts and gives it a 4.5 out of 5 both overall and for its functionality. “This is a fantastic belt,” she says. “I love the material, I love how snugly it fits, and it truly doesn’t move when you run.” 

She scored it a 4.5 out of 5 for adjustability based on the fact that it fits waists from 25 to 38 inches — which doesn’t cover all runners, but fits many, including both her and her partner. “We have different-sized waists but we can both wear it because it’s so adjustable… he also had no issues with the belt moving or sliding, even when he ran shirtless and the belt was on his skin,” she said, scoring it a 5 out of 5 for comfort. 

She adds, “The pouch itself is a soft material that feels good on your skin. The clasp is very secure, and the elastic belt is a softer material that doesn’t create unnecessary friction.” Meier also gave it a 5 out of 5 for durability, and I have to agree: I’m a fellow SPIBelt user, and my model (black, non-reflective) has lasted about eight years.

The few downsides are that it’s not water-resistant and limited in size. The SPIBelt has a single main compartment with a zipper closure, and while it’s stretchy, Meier can’t fit much more than her iPhone 15 with a case on. “So I’d recommend this only if you need to keep a phone and a key in there and nothing else,” she says.

Best Running Belt With Storage: Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt

Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt

Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt

If you hike often, this belt is for you. It has ample storage and two water bottles, making it a great pack to bring on long trail treks. 

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If you tend to go trail running in the mountains or train in fickle spring or fall weather, you know the importance of having an extra layer or a place to put one if you heat up. This Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt is one of the most spacious running belts we’ve seen, with plenty of storage space for whatever you need, including a light jacket, hiking poles, hydration, snacks, and more. 

In addition to a large main compartment, this running belt has a dedicated pocket for the included Flexform II 500-milliliter water bottle, a front-facing key pocket, and an external bungee cord in case you need to secure anything else. Because it can hold so much, this running belt can also be a great backpack alternative for longer walks or day hikes.

Our tester, BarBend editorial member Lauren Keary, scored it a 5 out of 5 for functionality, comfort, and durability. “It held my phone, keys, and water with ease. It’s a high-quality product and there’s no fraying or visible issues that would lead me to believe it won’t last,” she says. The belt’s main compartment is made with a woven ripstop mesh to prevent any tears from spreading, and to make sure it’s breathable when sitting on your skin. 

The downside there is that the mesh isn’t sweatproof, so during really hot workouts, whatever’s in the pouch may get damp. The outside, however, is water-resistant, which can help protect your phone or cash if you get caught in the rain. 

The belt even has a stretchy loop to secure the best sports water bottle in your collection. Keary, though, said it can be tricky to undo while you’re on the move. “Since the water bottle sits behind you, you have to know where to feel for the loop to undo it,” she says. “Otherwise, the belt stays in place well with a secure Velcro strap, and I didn’t even experience any bouncing with the water.” 

If you’re looking for a running belt that can hold plenty and doesn’t budge, this Ultimate Direction Mountain Belt could do the trick.

Best Running Belt for Hydration: Nathan Sports TrailMix Plus 3.0

Nathan Sports TrailMix Plus 3.0

Nathan Sports TrailMix Plus 3.0

With two water bottles and a pouch, this hydration pack is great for long treks. If you're in your endurance era, you've met your pack.

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Complete with two 10-ounce water bottles and built-in holsters, this Nathan hydration belt allows you to easily carry 600-milliliters of water (or one of the best electrolyte drinks) with you on a run. That might sound like a lot of liquid to strap onto a belt, but our tester, BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings, had only great things to say, scoring it 5 out of 5 overall.

“This was an incredibly comfortable and useful running belt,” he says. “The TrailMix Plus 3.0 was way more secure and stable than I expected. Even with both water bottles full, the strap remained snug just above my hips. There is, of course, a little movement, but as far as running belts go, this is the best one I’ve ever tried.” 

If anything, the bottles were a little too secure, making them slightly difficult to remove while running. “This is nitpicking because I thought the holsters were well-designed, but reaching back with one hand did require me to slow my pace a touch… It was fine taking these bottles out, but there was a little too much resistance and fiddling around for a perfect score,” he says, giving the belt a 4.5 out of 5 for functionality.

Meanwhile, it earned a perfect 5 out of 5 for both comfort and adjustability based on the storage options and great fit. “The strap is wide and there are two toggles to adjust the length, plus a band to prevent any slipping during a run. With the belt secured just above my hips, I also didn’t experience much bouncing,” he says. 

In addition to the bottle holsters, there’s a zippered main compartment (large enough to fit a smartphone) with an internal divider, an outside mesh pocket, and spots to secure the best energy gels or other small items using pinch-toggle bungee cords. 

One of the few downsides of this belt is that, if you’re heading out on a shorter run and don’t need two bottles’ worth of water, you can’t remove the plastic holsters and run with just the pouch.

Best Running Belt for All Body Types: Salomon Pulse

Salomon Pulse

Salomon Pulse

This belt is great for shorter jaunts. It has a slot for your phone, as well as a pocket for car keys or small snacks on the go. 

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Most running belts come in one size and offer an adjustable band to help you personalize the fit. This means more plastic bits that could dig in, chafe uncomfortably, or fail to hold the straps in place — but that’s not the case with the Salomon Pulse running belt. This model comes in five different sizes that accommodate waists between 25 and 41 inches, making it accessible for runners of all sizes. Unique by design, the belt is constructed as a wide, solid tube of fabric with pockets stitched inside.

That said, since this belt isn’t adjustable, it’s important that you peep Salomon’s size chart so you buy the right size. “This belt slid up my waist as I was running and walking,” says Lauren Keary, our tester and a BarBend editorial member. She scored the belt a 4 out of 5 overall, and a 3 out of 5 for comfort. 

“I’d prefer a belt that I don’t have to constantly tug on during my workout. That said, I could have just not had the right size,” she says.

This Salomon belt has two horizontal pockets: one with a zipper to secure valuables, and an open-mouth easy-access pocket for things you might want to grab on the go, like gels or an sports drink. They’re large enough enough to hold a smartphone, for example, or a 500-milliliter soft hydration flask (sold separately). 

The Pulse belt also has reflective details for added safety, and two diagonal elastic straps with silicone grip for securing extra clothes or poles. “It kept all of my belongings in their respective pockets, but it did move up on my waist while I was running. If you’re looking for a snug fit, I’ve tested more secure belts. However, this gets the job done,” Keary says. 

As mentioned, the fit of running belts is super personal, so it’s worth noting that there are customers on Amazon who report zero movement with their belt.

Benefits of Running Belts

If you’ve done plenty of long runs, you already know how important it is to have the proper running fuel and hydration to get you through hours of pounding pavement. One of the key benefits of running belts is a place to store that grub.

“I like a belt for really long runs when you know you’ll need mid-run energy boosts and hydration,” says Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. “When I was marathon training, I’d store a few running gels in my belt, which also could hold several small water bottles.” If you’re unacquainted, however, we’ll break down some of the key perks running with a belt can offer. 

• Convenient Storage: Running belts allow you to bring your phone (for safety and entertainment purposes), house keys, wallet, and anything else you might need on your run. Unlike a backpack or other type of bag, a running belt is designed to fit tightly onto your body, so you don’t feel it while you run. 
• Simplified Hydration: How much you should drink during a run is highly personal, but it’s essential to hydrate adequately before, during, and after runs to prevent dehydration. (2) Because running belts allow you to carry water or electrolytes with you, you can say goodbye to plotting routes around public water fountains or loops that go continuously past your car or house. 
• Fewer Distractions: Many people find running belts to be the most comfortable way to hold onto their valuables while running, especially compared to the alternatives: stuffing things in pockets (where objects can jiggle or slip out), holding them in your hand, or sticking them in your sweaty sports bra (we know you’ve done it).

How Much Do Running Belts Cost?

Luckily, running belts aren’t pricey — they range from about $15 to $60. The cheaper options typically have a simpler, single-pouch design, and more expensive ones come with more storage and built-in hydration systems.

What to Consider Before Buying Running Belts

What do you really need in a running belt? “First thing I always think of is function,” says Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. “Is the belt big enough to fit what you need (phone, running gels, car key, etc.). And on top of that, is it secure enough?” Give these factors below some consideration; they’ll dictate which model might be best for you.

Fit

Most running belts are one-size-fits-most, but you’ll want to double check your own waist circumferences and compare it to the product details. Keep in mind: “Typically you wear a belt over your clothing, so the friction shouldn’t be an issue, but the sizing and adjustability is important,” Meier says. “Does it come in your size, and does it allow for micro-adjustments? I wouldn’t buy a belt that isn’t fully adjustable. First of all, on any given day, my waist size could vary due to bloating, food babies, etc. Second of all, some days you need a tight fit (maybe on speed work days when you don’t want a lot of jostling), and some days you’re fine with going a little looser.”

What Will You Be Carrying?

Do you just need a place to stash your keys? Will you bring your phone, and if so, how big is your current model? Do you hope to hold snacks or gels, water bottles or pouches, or an extra layer? Will you need an easy-to-reach compartment for poo bags or treats, if your dog tags along?

Understanding your storage needs will greatly influence which type of running belt is right for you — and maybe even make you realize that one of the best running vests or arm bands would be better.

Safety

Running belts can also serve a safety purpose. “Many of them have reflective strips on them, which make you more visible in high-traffic areas,” Meier says. That’s an important feature to look for if you run early in the morning, late at night, or on busy roads or trails. “And of course, if they hold your phone, you have a way to call for  emergency help,” Meier says.

Running Belts FAQs

References

1. Wood, J. M. (2023). Improving the conspicuity and safety of pedestrians and cyclists on night-time roads. Clinical and Experimental Optometry, 106(3), 227–237. 
2. Roy, Brad A. Ph.D., FACSM, FACHE. (2013). Exercise and Fluid Replacement: Brought to you by the American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal, 17(4):p 3.

The post Best Running Belts of 2024, Worn and Tested By Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

Unlike those worn to commute or work, running headphones have a very specific and difficult job: to stay put while you’re pounding out miles. The best running headphones will be sweatproof, have a long battery life, and won’t jiggle, bounce, or slide out of your ears. How do you know which models are up to the task? Our team of expert testers has tried many of the best running headphones out there, and come up with this list of seven that go the distance. Simply put, your next run is safe with any of these.

The Best Running Headphones of 2024

• Best Running Headphones Overall: Beats Powerbeats Pro
• Best Wireless Running Headphones: SHOKZ OpenRun Headphones
• Best Running Headphones for Sound Quality: Cleer ARC II Sport
• Best Bluetooth Running Headphones: Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
• Best Budget Running Headphones: JLab Go Air Sport
• Best Over-Ear Headphones for Running: Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones
• Best Running Headphones for Apple Users: Apple AirPods

How We Tested and Chose the Best Running Headphones

The BarBend team is full of experts, including personal trainers, CrossFit-certified coaches, competitive athletes, and endurance runners — and we put that knowledge and experience to work whether we’re testing gear, equipment, or workout tech. To arrive at these seven picks, we hands-on tested more than 15 different pairs of running headphones over many miles, then scored each on a scale of 1 (not great) to 5 (really great) across several different categories, including functionality and adjustability. For more on how we test products, check out the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

Below are some key elements we looked at when making our picks for the best running headphones.

• Ergonomics and Comfort: Headphone comfort is pretty personal, so we judged these pairs based on both our testers’ experience and what reviewers have to say in order to get the consensus. 
• Value: The prices here range from $30 to $300, but cost isn’t always the best indicator of quality. We weighed the features against the price of each pair of running headphones to give you a real-talk evaluation of their value.
• Durability: At the every least, running headphones need to endure miles in the elements — including dust, rain, wind, and sweat — and best-case scenario, they can survive a fall or accidentally being stepped on. We kept this in mind when testing them out.
• Does it Stay in Your Ear?: “Probably the most significant factor to consider is how secure the headphones are. Earbuds that fall out or headphones that jostle too much will annoy you,” notes BarBend expert reviewer Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer. Everyone’s ears are different, but we held these earphones to a high standard when reporting on their staying ability.

Best Running Headphones Overall: Beats Powerbeats Pro

Beats Powerbeats Pro

Beats Powerbeats Pro

These sweat-resistant headphones hook over years, so you don't have to worry about losing an earbud in the middle of your workout. They also have a built-in microphone, so you can answer calls without your phone on hand.

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The hands-down most important feature in a pair of running earphones is their ability to stay on, and this Beats pair, among the best Bluetooth earbuds we’ve tested, has that on lock — literally. They fit securely in-ear (thanks to four different sizes of silicone ear tips) and have adjustable ear hooks to keep them in place while you go the distance. That snug fit also offers passive noise isolation (using the fit of the earbuds to block external noise, versus actively canceling it out with technology), offering great sound quality on the go.

This is why these wireless headphones from Beats have been BarBend editorial member Rosie Borchert’s go-to earbuds for the last three years. She gave them a 4 out of 5 for overall experience and a perfect 5 out of 5 for comfort. “These stay put and are super comfortable,” she says. “I could shake my head around, and they wouldn’t fall out.” 

With 9 hours of uninterrupted listening time, they pack plenty of power to last you through two full marathons or — when you factor in the 24 hours of power held in the charging case — multiple weeks of training for a marathon. While not completely waterproof, they are water- and sweat-resistant. They also boast Class 1 Bluetooth technology, which ensures minimal connection issues. Borchert rated them a 4 out of 5 for durability and functionality.

Both wireless earbuds have volume and track controls, voice-activated Siri, and sensors to auto play or pause when they’re put in or taken out of your ear. One downside, though, is that they’re almost too capable. “I’ve had these things for years and I still bumble around trying to figure out what the buttons do,” Borchert says. “I wish [the controls were] a little bit more simple.”

These Beats headphones are compatible with both iOS and Android, but because Apple acquired Beats back in 2014, they have an Apple H1 chip and integrate pretty seamlessly with iPhones. You can see each earbud’s battery life on the screen when they’re connected, share playlists with a friend, and connect quickly to any Apple device. All around, they’re the best running headphones we’ve tested. At $250, though, they aren’t cheap.

Best Wireless Running Headphones: SHOKZ OpenRun Headphones

SHOKZ OpenRun Headphones

SHOKZ OpenRun Headphones

These open-ear headphones work through bone conduction, allowing you to hear your surroundings even while playing music. They are also completely sweat- and water-proof.

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Looking for a pair of headphones — not earbuds — that aren’t over-ear or connected to pesky wires? You might like the SHOKZ OpenRun headphones, which are sleek, waterproof, and totally wireless.

These Bluetooth headphones use patented bone-conduction technology to transmit sound directly to your inner ear via vibrations on your cheekbones. The biggest benefit to this tech is that you can listen to playlists without blocking out the sounds of what’s going on around you — a huge perk for people concerned about having their head in the clouds when running at night, on busy roads, or perilous trails in the Amazon rainforest. 

“I’ve been using these headphones for about five years now, primarily for cycling and running workouts and when I need to be aware of my surroundings,” says BarBend editorial member Rosie Borchert, who scored them a 4 out of 5 for overall experience and 5 out of 5 for durability. “They’re still going strong after five years and countless workouts.” 

Not to mention, they’re completely sweat- and waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about running with these in a heat wave or the rain. 

That said, the audio quality of bone conduction doesn’t match up with what you’ll get from headphones or earbuds that transmit audio the old-fashioned way. “These are great for a very specific purpose, and anything outside of that they just don’t compare to other headphones,” Borchert says. “When I’ve tried to listen to podcasts with these and I’m outdoors cycling, I can’t understand a word. But in a quiet setting, I can still hear the podcast.” 

The microphone is surprisingly great for calls, and the button controls are easy to master, so all things considered, the SHOKZ scored a 4 out of 5 for functionality.

Another cool feature of the SHOKZ is their Quick Charge ability. With a full charge, you have up to eight hours of listening and calls, but a 10-minute quick charge will get you up to 1.5 hours of battery life — clutch for when you forgot to charge them, but are hoping to head out ASAP for a workout. 

Best Running Headphones for Sound Quality: Cleer ARC II Sport

Cleer ARC II Sport Headphones

Cleer ARC II Sport Headphones

Cleer Arc II headphones fit snug over your ear and won't shift around or fall off while you train. These are compatible with both iPhone and Android, too. 

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Normally, you need to compromise on sound quality to use open-ear headphones, but not with this pair of Cleer ARC II Sport headphones. “Because the speaker isn’t inserted into the ear like typical earbuds, I expected the sound to be less immersive, but they sounded as good as my AirPods Pro,” says our tester, BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings. “It’s almost like a tiny speaker directed at your ear, as opposed to wedging into your ear.” And because they’re open-ear, you can still hear your surroundings for a safer experience whether you’re road- or trail-running.

Cummings adds that it’s not just the default sound quality that’s great. You can really customize your auditory experience in the app and change the controls, which include hands-free actions, like nodding to pause or turning your head to skip a song. Thanks to these features, Cummings gave the Cleer ARC II Sport headphones a perfect 5 out of 5 for functionality, adjustments, and his experience using the app. 

One of the only complaints he had was about the comfortability, giving them a 4 out of 5. “The bar that reaches behind the ear to secure it was slightly uncomfortable,” he said. “During my runs, I also noticed some bouncing because they weren’t quite a perfect fit. It is a flexible, rubber material, but there aren’t incremental adjustments to snuggle up to your ear. It was comfortable, just not perfect.” 

If you’re looking for an open-ear headphone model to run in, but don’t want to sacrifice hearing your podcasts word-for-word or feeling the punchy bass of your favorite music, Cleer ARC II Sport could be a good fit.

[Related: Jogging vs. Running]

Best Bluetooth Running Headphones: Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

These open headphones allow immersive audio, so you can be aware of your surroundings while running on your favorite trail or walking down a busy intersection. They also pack about 48 hours of battery life.

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If you like the idea of open-ear headphones and have an eye for design, turn your attention to these futuristic Ultra Open Earbuds from Bose. With Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connectivity, you can connect to multiple devices at once, and switch from one to the other seamlessly — then take them out on a run or start a conversation with someone without having to hit any buttons or remove them from your ears.

“These are easily the most comfortable headphones I’ve ever worn (and I’ve tried them all),” says Bojana Galic, marathon runner and BarBend editorial member, who gave them a 5 out of 5 for comfort. “You barely even feel you’re wearing them… I’ll wear them around the house all day like a stylish ear cuff and listen to music or answer calls, but I can still hear people talking to me.”

For cyclists or runners who want to hear the world around them, these are a solid Bluetooth headphone option. “The open-ear design offers a secure fit — I’m never worried about them falling out or shifting while I bike or run. For cycling, especially, I love them because they allow me to hear other riders or cars on the road,” Galic says.

But the downside of open-ear headphones is that they don’t do any noise-canceling. “In a gym setting, where total noise cancellation is preferred, they’re not totally ideal. They do let outdoor noise in, so in a gym, I typically swap these out for my on-ear headphones,” Galic says. However, with the Bose app, you can tailor the EQ settings to your liking.

The price tag is steep at $300, but if you’re interested in the open-ear design and want to try what’s a one-of-a-kind product on the market, you might love them. And the good news is, they should last you a long time — Galic scored them a 5 out of 5 for durability. 

Best Budget Running Headphones: JLab Go Air Sport

JLab Go Air Sport

JLab Go Air Sport

These wireless workout headphones have a 32 hour playing time and feature over-the-ear hooks to help ensure they stay in place while you exercise.

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The JLab Go Air Sport earbuds seem to have it all in terms of tech: 32 hours of listening time on one charge (including the case); dirt, water, and sweat resistance; easy-to-use touch controls; three sound modes (Signature, Balanced and Bass Boost); a microphone in each earbud; the ability to use one earbud at a time; and an ergonomic ear hook to keep them locked on your ear. All this, and for just $30, which is well below the average for running headphones. 

“I need headphones like these,” says BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Alex Polish, ACE CPT, who’s used these running earbuds for over a year. “Air pods without loops to go around my ear just don’t stay in (yes, I’ve tried many), and I sweat too much for complete over-the-ear headphones. So, these have the perfect shape for me. They stay secure and I never have to worry about them going anywhere.” Polish scored them a 5 out of 5 in terms of comfort. 

Durability, meanwhile, scored a 4 out of 5. “It’s OK if you sweat a lot during your runs — I certainly do,” they added. “They won’t falter, skip, or break. But don’t put them right back in their case when you get home. Let them sit out and have them completely dry before you put them back in to charge. That’s their big weakness — if you let them charge while wet, they’re more likely to break down.”

[Related: JBL Under Armour Wireless Headphones Review]

The other weakness Polish points out is that they can get “moody” when syncing with different devices. “Since I’ve used them for so long, over time, they come in and out of sync with devices and with each other,” they explain, scoring functionality a 3 out of 5. “If they unsync with one of your devices (your computer, say) to pair with another (your phone), they can sometimes unsync with each other so only one ear works at a time. You kind of have to turn Bluetooth on and off again, as well as putting the headphones back in their case, to reset it. That can be annoying when you’re trying to hit the road.”

Best Over-Ear Headphones for Running: Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones

Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones

Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones

This lightweight pair of over-ear headphones has three modes of noise cancellation to suit different environments, as well as up to 60 hours of battery life. The earcups are super comfortable due to their memory foam padding.

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Running in over-the-ear headphones is a personal thing; some people love it; some people can’t stand it. If you’ve found that your ears are earbud-averse or want something that offers a little more coverage from the world, though, a pair of over-ear headphones could level up your runs. Our tester, BarBend editorial member Randall Colburn, is a fan of these Soundcore Life Q30 headphones, giving them a 4 out of 5 overall.

One of the standout features of this model is that they offer great sound quality and varying levels of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) so you can still hear what’s going on around you outside or almost totally block it out during treadmill HIIT workouts indoors. “Using the Transparency Mode, I still feel as if I’m hearing enough of the world around me to feel safe. And when I use the Indoor or Transport modes, I’m really cocooned away from the world,” Colburn says, giving them a 4 out of 5 for adjustments and a 5 out of 5 for functionality. 

“You can swap between them with a button on one of the ear cups,” he adds. “On the other, you can pause and play your audio, or adjust the volume. I do wish I could swap tracks via the headphones, but these don’t offer that option.” You can control a lot from the headphones, but Soundcore’s app allows you to customize further.

As for comfort, the Q30s have faux leather-covered memory foam ear cups and an adjustable headband. This lets you fit the headphones to your head size, which helps keep them from moving while you’re running. “It barely moves when I tighten it to my noggin, so I’ve really had no issues with them bouncing or slipping,” Colburn says. 

[Related: How To Build Stamina for Running]

Just note that the ear cups can get pretty sweaty; you’ll want to clean them off after working out, and manage your expectations around their life expectancy if you sweat a lot. Soundcore doesn’t offer a waterproof or water-resistance rating, which means they may not do well if they get too wet.

All things considered, you’re getting a pair of Bluetooth, noise-canceling running headphones for under $100 — that’s a steal. 

Best Running Headphones for Apple Users: Apple Airpods

Apple AirPods

Apple AirPods

A go-to in the Apple age, these AirPods deliver quality sound that automatically pauses whenever you remove them from your ears. They're also compatible with Siri for hands-free assistance.

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If you run with your iPhone (or want to), there’s a good chance the best running headphones for you are a pair of AirPods. I’ve been wearing the AirPods Generation 2 for five years now, and despite being able to test many other workout headphones as a fitness writer and editor, this pair has remained my tried and true.

I have small ears, and I’ve found most in-ear headphones to be wildly uncomfortable or straight-up impossible to keep in my ear. Even the best contenders survived other activities but slowly slipped out while running. For me, the original AirPods fit well, feel super lightweight, and don’t budge while running or doing burpees, which is why I give them a 5 out of 5 for comfort.

Otherwise, the standout feature is that they play so well with my other Apple devices. You can seamlessly transfer music or calls from device to device, share audio with a second pair of AirPods, control your music via an Apple Watch, and check the battery levels or manage the touch-control settings right within iOS. 

They use the same Lightning cable an iPhone needs to charge, though with 6 hours of battery life and 18 more in the case, I don’t find myself needing to do so often. Of course, many earbuds promise many more hours of battery life on a full charge, so consider that when browning your options. 

In all, I give them 4 out of 5 for functionality, docking a point only for the fact that they don’t noise-cancel. That’s not much of a problem while running, since I like to hear what’s happening around me, but in noisy places like subways or planes, the audio can be hard to hear. (If you want audio customization or noise-canceling, the other AirPod models have more bells and whistles.)

My pair has lasted me years, but I’d give them a 3 out of 5 for durability. For one, the buds are pretty dainty; if you were to accidentally step on one with shoes on, they’d probably bust. Second, when dropped, the magnetic-closure case tends to pop open and the earbuds scatter. Still, years later, my case and buds have had zero issues, are in one piece, and ready to be worn for many more miles.

Benefits of Running Headphones

The benefits of running are pretty juicy on their own, but you get even more perks when you pop on a pair of running headphones — namely, all of the below.

• Hands-Free Running: “A benefit to a good pair of headphones made for running is that they won’t get in the way of your mobility,” says BarBend expert reviewer Kate Meier. “Running headphones are typically wireless, which means you won’t get caught on anything as you move.”
• Noise Cancellation: Noise-canceling headphones may help block out distractions and improve your focus on the task at hand. (1) If you’re running outdoors, they can pose a safety risk by blocking out the sounds of your surroundings, but in the gym, they can help you remain laser-focused on your training.
• Exercise Entertainment: “Perhaps the biggest benefit to running headphones is having the ability to listen to music, which can be motivating and keep you tuned in, so to speak, to your workout,” Meier says. And she’s right, since research suggests that listening to music can help you enjoy your workout more. (2) You aren’t limited to music, either. Cue up a podcast to learn something new or lose yourself in an audiobook to make the miles fly by.
• Boosted Performance: Music doesn’t only make your workout more enjoyable, it also improves your physical performance and physiological efficiency and reduces your perceived level of exertion. (3) When running, specifically, listening to fast-paced music can help you push your pace without feeling like you’re working harder, according to a small 2014 study. (4)

How Much Do Running Headphones Cost?

There’s no need to spend hundos on a pair of headphones. You can get great running headphones for as little as $30, splurge for ones upwards of $300, or land anywhere in between. (And keep in mind, it’s pretty easy to find tech on sale, especially during events like Prime Day or Black Friday.)

What to Consider Before Buying Running Headphones

Our running headphone recommendations are only helpful if they’re what you’re looking for. To choose a pair, you’ll ultimately have to do some self-reflection and determine your needs, which features are most important, and the type of workout headphones that best fit those qualifications. Below are a few key factors to consider.

Comfort

If headphones aren’t comfortable or don’t stay in or on your ears, you won’t enjoy running in them. We vetted our picks with a close eye on those factors, but unfortunately, the only way to know for sure if a pair works for you is to try them out. 

It can help to buy a pair that’s adjustable in some way — for example, with different-sized silicone tips — but beyond that, comfort is largely up to personal preference. “Some people don’t like earbuds, some people can’t stand to have large headphones straddling their heads. Pick a style you’ll actually use and be comfortable with, or else it’s a waste of money,” says Kate Meier, our expert reviewer.

Connectivity

You’ll want to make sure your headphones play nice with your devices. This makes everything easier, including setup, connection, and disconnection, as well as the use of virtual assistants and other features.

If you’re an Apple user, AirPods aren’t your only choice. Since Apple acquired Beats in 2014, their headphones often include Apple’s chip for easy connection with iOS devices. Many other headphone brands — including Bose, JBL, and Sony — also have apps to help improve the experience on both iOS and Android devices. They can, however, sometimes make things more complicated by adding an extra step and potential failure point.

Adjustability

Adjustability can help with comfort, but it’s also a factor in terms of audio quality and sound experience. Do you want a pair of running headphones that’s always noise-canceling, that gives you the ability to turn noise-canceling on and off, or ones that allow you to hear ambient sound? Audiophiles may want to play with the sound balance, a feature not available in all models here, but that can be done with the higher-end ones.

Safety

You should also consider safety when shopping for a pair of running headphones. “Noise-canceling headphones may sound great, but they may not be the best option for people running outside,” Meier says. “It’s imperative to be aware of your surroundings, whether you’re on the streets, on a trail, or even running on a treadmill at the gym. If your music is too loud, you may miss the warning signs of danger.” 

If you run on busy roads, trails, or paths, it may be smart to opt for bone-conduction headphones, ones that aren’t noise-canceling, or an open-ear pair that allows you to hear ambient sound while running. It’s not that you can’t run in noise-canceling headphones, but it may be best to save them for the gym.

Running Headphones FAQs

References

1. Molesworth, B. R., Burgess, M., & Kwon, D. (2012). The use of noise cancelling headphones to improve concurrent task performance in a noisy environment. Applied Acoustics, 74(1), 110-115.
2. Stork, M. J., Kwan, M. Y., Gibala, M. J., & Martin Ginis, K. A. (2015). Music enhances performance and perceived enjoyment of sprint interval exercise. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 47(5), 1052–1060. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0000000000000494
3. Terry, P. C., Karageorghis, C. I., Curran, M. L., Martin, O. V., & Parsons-Smith, R. L. (2020). Effects of music in exercise and sport: A meta-analytic review. Psychological bulletin, 146(2), 91–117. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000216 
4. Lee S, Kimmerly D. (2014). Influence of music on maximal self-paced running performance and passive post-exercise recovery rate. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, PMID: 25359134.

The post Best Running Headphones of 2024, Tested By Runners appeared first on BarBend.

After spinning over 30 jump ropes, our team of CrossFit coaches and personal trainers handpicked their go-to ropes, along with new favorites to match a wide variety of experience levels and budgets. We think these options are ideal for newbies and seasoned CrossFitters looking to improve both their technique and their overall fitness. Check out our list of the best CrossFit jump ropes to see if one of our faves can earn a spot in your gym bag.

The 7 Best CrossFit Jump Ropes of 2024

• Best CrossFit Jump Rope Overall: Rogue Fitness SR-2 3.0 Speed Rope
• Best High-End CrossFit Jump Rope: RX Smart Gear EVO G2
• Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Speed: RPM Comp 4
• Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Learning Double-Unders: CrossRope Get Lean Jump Rope Set
• Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Grip: WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope
• Best Beaded CrossFit Jump Rope: Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope
• Best Budget CrossFit Jump Rope: WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

How We Tested and Chose the Best CrossFit Jump Ropes

The BarBend roster of fitness professionals is stacked with CrossFit coaches, certified personal trainers, and gym owners who know the ins and outs of the CrossFit community. We’ve tested over 30 jump ropes to see which weights, grips, and materials can help you dominate your next WOD. 

After setting a few PRs ourselves, we assigned ratings of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 categories, from sizing and adjustment to handle material and rotation system. Read on to see which options made the cut for the best CrossFit jump ropes. For information about how we test products, check out BarBend’s equipment testing methodology.

• Cable Sizing and Adjustment: For every rope we got our hands on, we noted how easy or difficult it was to adjust the length of the cable. Some options use the common “size-and-cut” method, while others utilize systems that allow users of different heights to adjust the length of the cable.
• Handle Grip: As your only point of contact with the jump rope, the grip is vital. We included ropes with contoured rubber designs, as well as knurled aluminum and the classic plastic shell.
• Cable Weight: The picks on our list range from lightweight, speedy cables to heavier, slower ropes. While experienced CrossFitters may need a faster spin to set a new double-under PR, newcomers may want to hone their technique with a heavy cable.
• Rotation Mechanism: Most CrossFit jump ropes utilize either a ball bearing or bushing rotation system. Ball bearings allow smooth, 360-degree rotation, but tend to be more expensive. While a bushing system’s range is limited, these ropes are typically more affordable.
• Packability: Whether you’re taking your jump rope on the road or just to and from your CrossFit box, they can easily become tangled if they are stuffed in a gym bag or the trunk of your car. We prioritized ropes that come with their own travel cases or easily coil without tangling.

Best CrossFit Jump Rope Overall: Rogue Fitness SR-2 3.0 Speed Rope

Rogue Fitness SR-2 3.0 Speed Rope

Rogue Fitness SR-2 3.0 Speed Rope

With lightweight, knurled aircraft-grade aluminum handles encouraging super fast rotation, this rope was built for speed.

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If you’re looking for a jump rope to help you master the classic CrossFit double-under (or, heck, even a single-under), we think the Rogue SR-2 3.0 has everything you need. Between the knurling on the aluminum handles and its smooth, quick rotation, it easily earned its place among the best CrossFit equipment we’ve used. Our tester — a CrossFit Level-1 trainer — even used this rope to set a new PR. “New PR! After trying out multiple other ropes, this is the one that got me to 137 dubs,” they said, rating both its handle and knurling material a 5 out of 5.

With an overall weight of just 0.35 pounds and a high-speed bearing rotation system, this rope quickly earned the affection of our tester after they started using it at their box. “Even as a trainer, I never paid much attention to the rotation system on ropes like this,” they noted, rating the system on the SR-2 3.0 a 5 out of 5. “But the bearing rotation system lets it spin seamlessly in every direction.”

Another of our testers —a certified personal trainer — also felt that this is a solid option for newbies. “This is the rope I used when I learned how to do double-unders, so I think it would be good for new CrossFitters, too,” they said. At just under $50, it lands just at the bottom of the average range of $50 to $100 for CrossFit jump ropes, which may make it a bit more palatable for newcomers.

It earned a 4 out of 5 for value, though our tester admitted those unfamiliar with CrossFit may balk at the price. “It will probably seem expensive to anyone unfamiliar with these types of ropes,” they said. “But it helped a certified CrossFit coach hit their PR, so I am sold.”

Make sure that you either take it to your CrossFit box — or that your space is outfitted with one of the best home gym flooring options, like rubber or turf. Ropes like these are typically recommended for indoor use, so it only scored a 3 out of 5 for outdoor use. “If you use it on concrete or asphalt, the cable will start to rip apart,” said our tester.

Best High-End CrossFit Jump Rope: RX Smart Gear EVO G2

RX Smart Gear EVO G2

RX Smart Gear EVO G2

The ergonomic aerospace-grade aluminum handles on the EVO G2 feature a unique “pinch point” silhouette with diamond-pattern knurling. Its dual-bearing swivel rotation system also enables incredibly smooth rotation.

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High-end. Luxury. Bougie. These were a few of the words thrown around by our testers when they laid eyes on the RX Smart Gear EVO G2. But by the end of our workouts, even our most experienced gear junkies, like certified CrossFit Level-1 trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, were head over heels. “When I saw the price tag, I wanted to hate on this rope so much,” she admitted. “But during my first reps I actually said, ‘Wowww,’ out loud. The instant it started spinning, I could tell I was going to love it.”

It’s probably no wonder that she scored it at least a 4 out of 5 in 11 of 13 categories, including a 4.5 for her overall workout experience. “You can tell just how much attention to detail they put into this rope,” she said, wishing she had gone with a lighter option. “I only knocked it a half point because I tend to prefer really thin speed ropes.” The 2.6-ounce version of the EVO G2 that Meier used is one of four available weights: 1.3, 1.8, 2.6, and 3.4 ounces.

For another of our testers (a certified personal trainer), the unique design of the handle was what most set it apart from other (more affordable) CrossFit jump ropes. “I absolutely loved this design. Each of the three notches has raised rings, then between the notches are sections of knurling,” she explained. “Holding the handle at the bottom let me spin it faster. With knurling between each notch, I could hold it all the way at the end and still have some to pinch.”

The biggest and most obvious drawback among our testers was the price, which was the culprit behind its 3 out of 5 rating for value. “For $165, you could get so much home gym equipment, but I’ll be the first to admit it’s an incredible rope,” Meier said. 

Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Speed: RPM Comp 4

RPM Comp4

RPM Comp4

Need a quick, efficient jump rope for your next workout? The RPM Comp4 features a lightweight cable-style rope for fast rotations, and the Dual-Axis Rotation technology eliminates potential torque at the handles for seamless turnover no matter your training intensity.

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Like Lightning McQueen, the RPM Comp 4 was built for speed. The dual-axis rotation system is engineered to eliminate any “slop” (RPM’s word, not ours) in the system, meaning that it can avoid twisting and torque build-up in your cable. Speaking of it, the 12-foot bare cable is one of the fastest we’ve tested, making it ideal for jumpers interested in high-intensity work. 

“If you’re new to jump ropes in general, I would not start out with a speed rope like this. You’ll definitely be whipping yourself and end up with welts — just like I did,” said our tester (a certified personal trainer). A big part of that speed is the dual-bearing rotation system that earned a 5 out of 5 from our tester. “The dual-axis rotation in the handles generates a ton of speed and opens up training like HIIT cardio workouts. The bushing system is well-oiled, which again, just makes it even faster.”

With a bare cable flying this fast, we don’t think this rope is suited for double-under rookies. After earning a few welts of their own, our tester highlighted who this speed jump rope is geared towards. “This rope is totally not for anyone learning double-unders,” they noted. “It’s definitely better for people who are already proficient in stuff like crossovers, double-unders, or triple-unders who want to get even faster.”

Another of our testers — also a certified personal trainer — rated the grip in the handles a 5 out of 5, saying, “I loved the full-length aggressive knurling and even with sweaty hands had zero issue.” However, issues did soon arise for this tester. “I don’t know what happened, but this rope was an absolute dream before it broke on me,” they said. “After five sessions, one of the ball bearings popped out.”

After struggling with the tiny adjustment screws, our tester walked away feeling they may have been cursed by the jump rope gods. “I so badly want to give this rope a high rating, but getting these little bitty screws in was extremely frustrating.”

Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Learning Double-Unders: CrossRope Get Lean Jump Rope Set

CrossRope Get Lean Jump Rope Set

CrossRope Get Lean Jump Rope Set

This heavy rope provides the feedback needed when learning double-unders. Its ceramic ball bearings create smooth rotation, plus the connected app offers metrics tracking and jump rope workouts. If you're not satisfied, you can return your jump rope within 60 days — no questions asked.

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For any newcomers to CrossFit or jump rope WODs, mastering the double-under is a must. Of course, single-unders can get your heart pumping and are a great starting point. But during double-unders, the rapid rotation of the rope raises the intensity by forcing you to perform quicker jumps. That intensity is what makes this classic CrossFit movement so effective and efficient for helping with weight loss. (3) 

As our tester (a CrossFit Level-1 trainer) noted, “When you’re first learning double-unders, you need feedback from the rope,” they explained. “Feedback means you can feel where the rope is, which heavier ropes make much easier.” Enter the CrossRope Get Lean Jump Rope Set. Not only can the two included cables provide that feedback, the ceramic ball-bearing rotation system earned a 5 out of 5 from our other tester, a certified personal trainer. 

“It’s not just ad-speak,” they said. “The rotation is buttery-smooth.” They also appreciated being able to progress to the lighter of the two cable weights as they improved, which prompted another 5 out of 5 for rope weight and width. “I love having the two cables and both felt great. Plus, they were so easy to change out.” Before locking in your purchase, they also recommend checking out CrossRope’s sizing chart to help pick the right length for you.

That’s great, but $129 just for a heavy rope? Our tester rated its value a 3 out of 5, and was skeptical they were worth the above-average price. “There is an app that has workouts, but you also have to pay another $99 for a year subscription,” they said. “The cables are definitely nice with no kinks or tangles, but I don’t know if they are $129 nice.”

Best CrossFit Jump Rope for Grip: WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

The contoured and thick rubber handles provide a secure grip, while each handle also holds 0.5 pounds of removable weight. Its cable length is also adjustable without needing to be cut.

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Whether you’re going for a new double-under PR or your hands tend to sweat more than you care to admit (talking to myself), a comfortable grip is one of a CrossFit jump rope’s most important qualities. Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, is one of those people, so the contoured rubber handles on the WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope were an easy 5 out of 5 for handle padding.

“As someone who has (more than once) launched a jump rope across my CrossFit box, I absolutely love these handles,” they said. “They were so grippy, they almost felt sticky. The diameter is about 1 inch, so someone with really small hands may find them too thick. But for people like me, whose hands get sweaty and slippery, I can’t recommend them enough.” 

Beneath the rubber grip is a plastic handle, but the actual material isn’t listed, so our tester scored the handle’s material a 4 out of 5. “Honestly, all you need to know is that they won’t go flying during your set.” Beyond the grip itself, the handles also feature removable half-pound weights to work in some upper body exercise, along with forcing you to engage your core to stay balanced.

The rope itself kept the high marks coming. “I liked that I didn’t have to ‘cut and size’ the PVC-coated cable and could just use the little adjustment screw,” they explained, rating its sizing and adjustment 5 out of 5. It earned two more 5 out of 5 scores for the rope’s weight and its overall value. “You get a speed cable and a 4-millimeter heavy rope, which makes it super versatile.” 

While its heavier weight may make it more difficult to travel with, for around $10 less than the average range for CrossFit jump ropes, our tester found it a high-quality pick, rating its value a 5 out of 5. “It won’t pack very well, but as long as you don’t need to take it on a trip, it’s a great option,” they said.

Best Beaded CrossFit Jump Rope: Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope

Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope

Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope

The sound of the beads provides feedback to develop rhythm and cadence while you jump. Plus, its size-and-cut cable can suit athletes up to 6 feet 4 inches. The one-inch plastic beads also protect the cable during outdoor use.

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If the click-clack of beads on a sidewalk takes you back to your childhood days of double dutch or skipping rope, the Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope may help you mix a bit of nostalgia into your workouts. While we haven’t had the chance to put this exact rope to the test, beaded ropes are good options for working on your technique outdoors. The 1-inch plastic beads help to protect the cable underneath while providing the audible feedback that can help you develop a consistent jumping rhythm.

You may get some side eyes if you bring it to your box, but for just under $23, you can spice up outdoor training sessions without worrying about damaging your speed rope. Some customers highlighted that while the cable may rotate slower than ropes with ball-bearing systems, that may be ideal for beginners or for anyone practicing CrossFit favorites like double-unders or crossovers. “I bought this specifically to work on crossover jumps,” reads one five-star review. “I am 5 feet 4 inches and removed 20 beads, and it works fantastic.” 

The 10-foot cable should suit athletes up to 6 feet 4 inches, but much like pricier ropes, you can measure and cut the cable yourself to match your height. After measuring the rope, any good pair of scissors or wire cutters should be able to handle the job.

A handful of users were dubious about the Elite SRS Beaded Jump Rope’s longevity, including this customer who noticed some fraying. “I spent the extra money thinking this rope would be a high-quality beaded jump rope, but after four sessions at 10 minutes each, I noticed the end of the rope is starting to fray,” reads this two-star review. “The performance of the rope is good, I just wish the quality was better.”

Best Budget CrossFit Jump Rope: WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

At $32.67, this durable, lightweight jump rope costs around $17 below the average range for CrossFit ropes. Both included cables spin quickly and smoothly.

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If you’re looking for the rope the pros use, the WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope has been our expert reviewer Kate Meier’s go-to CrossFit jump rope for five years. As she points out, you’ll get a back-up cable in case you ignore the manufacturer’s instructions (like she did…) “This thing is just incredible. I’ve used it regularly for five years. I replaced the first cable after three and a half years because I (foolishly) used it on pavement,” she explained, rating both its value and her workout experience 5 out of 5.

[Related: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

The bearing rotation system is reminiscent of much more expensive ropes and also earned a 5 out of 5 from Meier. “It spins super quick and can rotate 360 degrees,” she said. “The cable itself is 2.5 millimeters and fast as heck. It’s definitely the thinnest and lightest jump rope I’ve used.” It’s perhaps no wonder that the rope’s width and weight also garnered a rating of (wait for it…) 5 out of 5.

As she learned through experience, this speed rope should only be used on soft and smooth surfaces, like typical rubber gym flooring. “After seeing how quickly the cable coating can wear down, I bring out a few rubber squares from my home gym if I want to use it outside,” Meier explained, scoring our outdoor use category just 2.5 out of 5.

The basic plastic handles may not impress when stacked up against the padding and knurling of pricier CrossFit jump ropes, but Meier rated both their material and feel 3 out of 5. “They are just run-of-the-mill plastic handles, but I think they’re comfortable,” she said. “I am definitely not nice to these handles. I toss them in my car, on the floor, or across the gym in the midst of a double-under tantrum, but I’ve never seen a crack.”

Benefits of the Best CrossFit Jump Ropes

BarBend expert reviewer Kate Meier points out that even a short jump rope session can be a worthwhile cardio workout at home or your box. “Jump roping is a fantastic, full-body exercise for those looking to elevate their heart rate and work up a sweat in a short amount of time,” she says. “Even just 10 minutes of jump-roping can burn around 100 calories, depending on your intensity.” (4) Check out a few other benefits these efficient pieces of equipment bring to the table.

• Practice Double-Unders: While singles and crossovers are challenging in their own right, the double-under is a CrossFit classic for a reason. The double-under requires a more explosive jump than singles, as well as increased coordination. Finding a jump rope designed with this movement in mind could be the key to setting your next PR.
• Improved Cardiovascular Endurance: Regular cardio exercise (thus elevating your heart rate) can improve circulation, endurance, and overall cardiovascular health. (1) In one Harvard study, jump-rope workouts were shown to burn as many calories in 10 minutes as did running for 30 minutes. (4)
• Enhanced Coordination: Along with boosting their cardio, Meier incorporates jump ropes into workout plans for her clients looking to improve their overall balance. “In general, I love prescribing any kind of jumps to my clients as they progress working through balance and coordination exercises,” she says. “Jumping rope is an excellent way to get the mind and body in sync. You have to concentrate on timing your jump as well as getting your upper body to coordinate with your lower body.” (2)
• Accessibility and Portability: Often weighing just a few pounds, jump ropes also conveniently coil up and can fit in most gym bags or backpacks. Being able to easily take your CrossFit jump rope on a trip or back and forth from your box makes them some of the best compact exercise equipment available.

How Much Do the Best CrossFit Jump Ropes Cost?

If you thought every CrossFit jump rope was just a simple 10-foot rope, think again. The options on our list range from $22.97 to $165. These jump ropes run the gamut of plastic handles with plastic beads to Bluetooth-connected smart ropes. Take a look to see which option may be best fit in your budget.

How To Measure a Jump Rope

After you take your shiny new CrossFit jump rope out of its package, you may need to size and cut the cable to suit your height. If you’re clueless about how to measure a jump rope, our expert reviewer Kate Meier breaks it down. 

“Finding the right rope length is simple. Step on the rope with one foot and pull the handles up toward your shoulders. The base of both handles should hit you at your armpits,” she explains. “If the handles are lower than that, you need a longer rope. If they are above your shoulders, you should shorten your rope a little.”

What to Consider Before Buying the Best CrossFit Jump Ropes

From HIIT workouts to steady-state cardio, consider how adding a CrossFit jump rope will fit in your regimen. Also pay attention to the rope itself. How long of a cable do you need? Why would I want a heavy rope instead of a thin one? Check out a few of the key factors to consider before buying a new jump rope.

Intended Workouts 

As you peruse our list, imagine how each rope might fit the workouts you want to take on. If you already have experience with the CrossFit darling, the double-under, and just want to get faster, check out a speed rope.

For newcomers or those still figuring out how to start CrossFit, a heavier rope that will rotate more slowly may be better for learning common movements like singles, crossovers, and dubs.

Cable Length

Most brands will feature some sort of sizing guide for their jump ropes and, as our expert reviewer Kate Meier points out, it’s one of the most important details to look for. “Before you start jumping, getting the right size rope length is imperative,” she says.

“Too short of a rope means you’ll be whipping yourself in the legs entirely too often; too long of a rope means the rope will hit the ground way out in front of you, affecting your timing and likely causing you to miss your jump.”

Weight 

The weight of the cable should match two things: the movement you’re attempting and your experience level. As some of our testers learned the hard way, when you’re learning advanced movements, like double-unders or crossovers, a thin speed rope can leave welts if you mistime your jump. Beginners may be better off with a heavier rope that provides plenty of feedback as you practice.

Training Surface 

Before you commit to a new rope, consider the surface it’s going to come into contact with. If your cable is exposed and subject to repeated contact with a hard or abrasive surface, like concrete or asphalt, it won’t take long for it to fray.

Most CrossFit jump ropes are designed to stay indoors and be used at your gym or on rubber flooring. Consider whether you’ll be able to keep your rope intact by sticking to a more forgiving surface.

Jump Rope Sizing Chart

As a rule of thumb, your jump rope cable should be around 3 feet longer than your height. If the option you choose uses the size-and-cut method, follow Kate Meier’s recommendation above. Also consult the brand’s sizing chart. For a general idea of the ideal length to match your height, take a look at our sizing chart.

Best CrossFit Jump Ropes FAQs

References

1. Baker, J. A. (1968). Comparison of Rope Skipping and Jogging as Methods of Improving Cardiovascular Efficiency of College Men. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 39(2), 240–243. 
2. Ozer, D., Duzgun, I., Baltaci, G., Karacan, S., & Colakoglu, F. (2011). The effects of rope or weighted rope jump training on strength, coordination and proprioception in adolescent female volleyball players. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 51(2), 211–219.
3. Knighton, C. (2024, February 27). What exactly are double unders? the mystery solved. WODprep. https://wodprep.com/blog/what-are-double-unders/
4. Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, March 8). Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights

The post The 7 Best CrossFit Jump Ropes of 2024, Handpicked by CrossFit Trainers appeared first on BarBend.

Purchasing trail running shoes can be a lot like searching for all-terrain tires for your vehicle, meaning you want a good sense of tread and protection without sacrificing ride comfort and overall weight. To help you take your training into the wild outdoors, we’ve run in dozens of popular silhouettes and consulted with our team of experts to curate this list of our favorite trail running shoes available today.

The 14 Best Trail Running Shoes of 2024

• Best Trail Running Shoes Overall: HOKA Speedgoat 5
• Best Road-to-Trail Trail Running Shoes: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX
• Best Budget Trail Running Shoes: Merrell Morphlite
• Best Cushioned Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Caldera 7
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Daily Training: Saucony Peregrine 14
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Speedwork: HOKA Tecton X 2
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Muddy Conditions: Inov-8 Mudtalon
• Best Stability Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Cascadia 17
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Long Distances: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Winter Conditions: Icebug NewRun BUGrip GTX
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Rocky Conditions: La Sportiva Bushido III
• Most Durable Trail Running Shoes: Norda 002
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Lone Peak 8
• Best Customizable Trail Running Shoes: Speedland GS:PGH

How We Tested and Chose the Best Trail Running Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best trail shoes, we got hands-on with 30 different shoe profiles from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

• Traction: Naturally, trail running shoes should feature a more aggressive outsole that can retain grip over uneven and loose terrain. We ran these tested sneakers through multiple trail conditions, including mud, rain, and packed trailways, to determine how grippy each silhouette was and where traction could potentially be compromised.
• Durability: With debris like sticks and gravel aplenty along the trail, as well as the potential for scrapes and scuffs when traversing different obstacles, it’s imperative to look for a trail shoe that can withstand the rigors of the discipline. We examined how resilient each profile was through multiple wears, highlighting any potential weak points that could be an issue when taking these kicks out for a run.
• Breathability: Given that the uppers of trail shoes need to be durable enough for the training conditions, breathability can oftentimes be compromised for the sake of better protection and sturdiness. That said, the trait is still desirable for an added layer of comfort, so we did our best to find some profiles that featured some ventilation to help keep our feet cozy and sweat-free.
• Over-Foot Protection: You’re going to be tackling different obstacles when out on the trail from jutting roots to large rocks, and more. These structures can potentially wreak havoc on your shoe’s upper as well as your feet, so we made note of trail shoes featuring protective overlays in key areas like the toe box and midfoot.
• Comfort: Regardless of your workout discipline, it can be beneficial to have a sneaker that’s comfortable enough for regular wear. We looked closely at each trail running shoe’s midsole design, making note of which components provided a plush ride through testing and which featured a more rigid structure designed more so for responsiveness or protection.

Best Trail Running Shoes Overall: HOKA Speedgoat 5

HOKA Speedgoat 5

HOKA Speedgoat 5

The HOKA Speedgoat 5s feature a tough and grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole that can be suitable for a variety of trail conditions. Additionally, the midsole foam is plush and comfortable, giving you a cozy ride that’s similar to the brand’s on-road offerings.

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It’s fitting that the best shoe for trail runners has ‘GOAT’ in the product name. The 5th iteration of this classic HOKA silhouette (formerly known as HOKA One One) has all the trimmings of a proper outdoor-ready sneaker. The Vibram outsole is plenty grippy for the uneven terrain you’d experience on a run, and the double-layered jacquard engineered mesh has a good mix of durability and breathability.

I’ve logged plenty of miles in my Speedgoat 5s and routinely turn to them when tackling new trails and routes. I’m confident in each step thanks to the Vibram Megagrip outsole, which features a solid lug pattern that can carry me through multiple scenarios. I rated the outsole design at 5 out of 5.

While there’s a good bit to love underfoot with these trail runners — I also scored the midsole at 4 out of 5 thanks to its comfortable ride through each step — the upper is a pleasant treat. The engineered jacquard mesh upper is durable enough for moderate trails, yet remains breathable enough that you won’t completely sweat through your running socks. Plus, there are neutral and vibrant colorways alike across the roster, allowing you to find the right hue to match your personality when on the trail.

In terms of fit, I rated the Speedgoat 5s at 4.5 out of 5. I’ve never had an issue with rubbing or hot spots, but the toe box does have a slight taper to it that can potentially irritate those with larger feet. Thankfully, though, HOKA does offer these trail-ready kicks in wide sizing.

Of course, these shoes do have their limits in terms of where they can perform best. The midsole, while comfortable, can be too thick at times when trying to focus on your footing over jagged rocks or more technical throughways. In my experience, I prefer to have as much ground feel as possible in these situations. Additionally, if you plan on running in the rain, be sure to purchase the GORE-TEX-lined version — there’s not a lot of water protection across the engineered mesh upper.

Best Road-to-Trail Trail Running Shoes: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX

Thanks to its redesigned outsole tread pattern, the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX can be an excellent trail shoe for more packed trailways and road-to-trail scenarios. The partial GORE-TEX lining also helps with water resistance, and the raised ankle collar can be effective for keeping debris out from your shoe’s interior.

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Not every “trail run” needs to be this exciting off-road excursion — there are plenty of packed trailways that can still warrant a more rugged silhouette than your typical road running shoe. For these milder terrain conditions, we recommend the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEXs thanks to their less aggressive outsole that’s suitable for medium-grade terrain like gravel or wood chips yet still performs well on paved pathways, too.

The Peg Trail 4 GTXs are a regular go-to when I need a pair of shoes for walking through developed trails, or when I know my routes will feature more than one road crossing. The tread is grippy enough for graveled throughways, yet the depth still keeps the noise factor down while pacing overtop asphalt. I’ve even used these as hiking shoes for quick weekend jaunts across beginner-friendly parks and nature preserves with little issues. As such, I rated the outsole at 4 out of 5.

Another reason these can be an ideal pair of shoes for road-to-trail needs is the React foam cushioning across the midsole. Like other Nike running silhouettes, each step has a comfy sense of plush while still retaining some responsiveness when paces call for it. Plus, I scored the cushioning at 4 out of 5 because you can get a decent feel for the ground beneath you on the trail, which can be beneficial when trying to get your bearings over uneven terrain.

These Nike trail running shoes also feature a partial GORE-TEX membrane, which can be helpful for trekking through shallow puddles along your routes. I say shallow, though, as the membrane does not encompass the entire shoe profile. Any puddle that gets into the raised ankle collar could lead to some sopping socks mid-run. This partial GORE-TEX membrane was also the reason behind my 3.75 out of 5 breathability score — GORE-TEX can keep water in just as easily as it keeps water out of your sneakers.

Best Budget Trail Running Shoes: Merrell Morphlite

Merrell Morphlite

Merrell Morphlite

These Morphlites from Merrell can be an excellent option for beginner trail running enthusiasts thanks to their supportive FloatPro midsole and rockered geometry for smooth transitions. Plus, the $100 price tag keeps these kicks affordable, meaning you don’t need to invest a ton into the discipline if you’re just testing the waters.

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Given the specialized needs of the discipline, trail running shoes can be more expensive than your typical runner with the average price tag hovering around $175. However, there are some budget-friendly options that can be worthwhile, including the Morphlites from Merrell. At $100, these are well below the median price yet can still provide you with enough traction and comfort for tackling a range of trail conditions.

I’ve been running in these Morphlites for a few weeks now and think they can be an excellent introduction to trail running sneakers. The tread is more pronounced than a road-centric profile, yet not so aggressive that you’ll be sitting high atop the trailway with a disconnected feel for the ground. Plus, I scored the overall ride of these Merrell trail runners at 4 out of 5 thanks to the lightweight feel of the FloatPro cushioning, which pairs nicely to the midsole’s rocker geometry for easy transitions across lighter, more packed routes.

The upper is also comfy enough for regular wear with a good sense of breathability through the engineered mesh. Plus, I like how Merrell treated the shoe with a Cleansport NXT coating, which can help prevent any unwanted odors from developing over time. I’ve had a number of trail running shoes ruined by stench alone (mud and perspiration don’t mix well), so any odor defense is a definite perk, in my opinion.

However, I do wish there was some added structure across this upper design, particularly along the midfoot. I did notice that my feet could move around easily inside the sneaker, which compromised my sense of stability at times. I rated the Morphlites at 3.75 out of 5 for stability, and recommend looking elsewhere if you need the extra support of more dedicated stability running shoes.

The Merrell Morphlites are less protective than other trail runners, too. There isn’t an exterior toe cap or pronounced rock plate, leading to my 3.5 out of 5 rating in the category. However, at $100, you can’t be asking for much more than what’s at play with these beginner-friendly, wallet-friendly kicks.

Best Cushioned Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Caldera 7

Brooks Caldera 7

Brooks Caldera 7

If you’re looking for a well-cushioned ride through the hills and valleys, the Caldera 7s from Brooks can deliver. In addition to this sneaker’s high-stack nitrogen-infused midsole foam, the Caldera 7s also utilize a rugged toe cap that can keep you well-protected from any harsh obstacles or jutting roots along your path.

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Sure, trail running can be a fun way to intensify your running workouts … but that doesn’t mean your feet need to be deprived of in-training comfort. Well-cushioned trail shoes can make those longer treks through the backcountry a pleasant treat rather than a grueling endeavor. For our money, the Caldera 7s from Brooks are the perfect vessel for these needs.

In addition to these Caldera 7s, I’ve also logged a heap of miles in this shoe’s predecessor — the Caldera 6 — and do feel Brooks nailed the DNA Loft v3 midsole foam with this iteration. It feels plush and comfy, and you don’t need to put a lot of effort into your steps to achieve that desirable soft landing. 

I did rate the cushioning at 4 out of 5, though, due to this sneaker’s lack of responsiveness. The Caldera 6s felt a little bouncier at certain paces with better energy return, which I haven’t experienced in these updated kicks. However, the resolution was quickly found as I fine-tuned my speeds to get the most out of the Caldera 7s.

Of course, with this amount of cushioning, you can expect to clunk up your running gait if you extend your mileage. It takes a while to learn how to use the higher stack height to your advantage on long-distance trails. As such, if I, a mere fitness writer, can do it, you surely can, too.

Durability-wise, I rated the Caldera 7s at 4.5 out of 5. I appreciated the more pronounced toe cap that was a great shield against any overgrown roots or jagged rocks during trials. While this does sacrifice some style points (I scored the Caldera 7s at 3.75 out of 5 in that category) I feel it’s worth the price when it comes to real-world use.

Finally, the TrailTack outsole is a nice mix of grip and durability. I’ve taken these shoes through loose and packed terrain with little issues when it comes to underfoot traction. Plus, the lugs seemed to have held up nicely, but only time will tell if that holds true.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Daily Training: Saucony Peregrine 14

Saucony Peregrine 14

Saucony Peregrine 14

With a PWRTRAC outsole featuring 5-millimeter lugs, the Peregrine 14s can be a grippy, effective trail shoe for those daily miles. The 9.4-ounce weight of this sneaker also opens up the possibility of tempo running — less heft to put the brakes on your speed.

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Need a trail shoe that can be trusted enough for your daily jaunts? The Saucony Peregrine 14s feature a comfortable PWRRUN midsole that can be plush enough for everyday mileage, while the higher stack height can be excellent for hitting the pavement en route to your wild pathways.

I also like the PWRTRAC outsole design that features deep lugs 5 millimeters. This can help the shoes stay versatile enough for packed and soft terrain, which can be more of an occurrence than you’d think when hitting the trails daily. I scored the outsole at 4 out of 5, because I appreciate this sense of traction, especially when weather is less impactful on my decision to hit the outdoors.

Speaking of versatility, I rated the ride of these Peregrine 14s at 4.5 out of 5. They performed well in shorter, slower workouts, but the lighter 9.4-ounce profile also gave room to open up my paces at times. This can be ideal for athletes looking to improve their average running speed through interval training, although I’d still opt for a lighter road shoe if tempo work is your main goal.

The Peregrine 14s from Saucony also feature a higher midsole stack height than previous iterations. Comparing them to my previous Saucony trail shoes — the Peregrine 13s — I noticed a higher heel (28 millimeters) and forefoot (24 millimeters). This can help create a comfy ride, especially for those brief on-road situations in-between trailheads, but I do feel you lose a bit of ground feel from the thicker slab of foam.

Fit-wise, these Sauconys fit true to size, and are available in wide sizing for larger-footed athletes. I do recommend investigating those options if you routinely max out your shoe interior — the toe box features a slight taper due to the toe cap, which can lead to unwanted rubbing and hot spots.

I also rated the fit at 4.5 out of 5 due to the lower heel counter. While this wasn’t a comfort issue for me per se, I could see how this lower placement could be awkward for some.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Speedwork: HOKA Tecton X 2

HOKA Tecton X 2

HOKA Tecton X 2

The Tecton X 2s from HOKA are a unique silhouette thanks to the parallel carbon plates sandwiched into the midsole that operate like the suspension system in your car. The plates operate independently from one another, ensuring you get a great energy return and pop in your take-off regardless of how uneven the underfoot terrain is.

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If your pursuits call for a pace beyond the average walking speed, a faster trail running shoe could be just up your alley. The Tecton X 2s from HOKA serve as a rugged workhorse that can also fall in-line with some marathon running shoes thanks to the innovative parallel carbon plates that sit nestled in the midsole for explosive energy return without compromised traction and balance across uneven terrain.

Admittedly, the original Tecton X is what sparked my love affair with trail running. I’m happy to report that this latest iteration only improved on that impactful profile, most notably in the new Matryx upper. I rated this component at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its hydrophobic qualities that make bursting through shallow puddles and short mud bogs a breeze.

Of course, though, the main reason these HOKA kicks can be excellent for speedwork lies in the midsole design and the parallel carbon plates. Rather than your typical running shoe shank, these plates work sort of like tectonic plates — hence the product name — shifting and adjusting independently to help propel you forward regardless of your underfoot conditions.

I love the zip these shoes provide to my paces and have routinely set trail PRs in them, which I credit highly to the innovative design. As such, I rated the energy return and midsole at 5 out of 5.

Like other popular HOKA trail running shoes (looking at you, Speedgoats), the Tecton X 2s employ a Vibram Megagrip outsole for excellent traction across a slew of conditions. However, the shorter tread depth of 4 millimeters does limit the grip you can experience on more technical terrain. I’d recommend shifting down a few gears before traversing wet rocks or thick mud, and score the traction at 4 out of 5.

Finally, the fit of these Tecton X 2s is true to size, and I do appreciate the roomy toe box that easily accommodates toe splays for intense push-offs. However, these sneakers aren’t available in wide sizing options (or GORE-TEX, for that matter) so larger-footed athletes may need to size up.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Muddy Conditions: Inov-8 Mudtalon

Inov-8 Mudtalon

Inov-8 Mudtalon

If you’re in need of a mud-ready sneaker to combat the bogs and puddles of your trail route, the Mudtalons from Inov-8 should be your shoe of choice. The long 8-millimeter lugs placed optimally across the STICKYGRIP rubber outsole help ensure traction across the looser environments, leading to less slipping and sliding and more forward progress from trailhead to trail’s end.

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Mud isn’t just a quirky obstacle you’ll encounter at your local obstacle course race — it can be a serious factor to consider when running through the wilderness. For athletes that know conditions are, shall we say, dirtier than others, we recommend the aptly-named Mudtalons from Inov-8 thanks to their 8-millimeter aggressive lugs that can grab hold of any terrain you throw at them.

I’ve run in these rugged kicks before and truly feel they are the mud tires of the footwear realm. I’ve traversed washed-out trails and swampy valleys with zero underfoot issues, which I credit to the deeper lug pattern across the STICKYGRIP rubber outsole. For these reasons, I rated the outsole traction at 5 out of 5.

[Related: 7 Reasons Strength Athletes Should Try Obstacle Course Racing]

The Mudtalons also feature a locked-in, contoured fit, which can be helpful when trying to navigate through loose terrain. You’ll already be thinking about sliding and sloshing across the ground, so there’s no need to add to the sensation with a sloppy fitment.

However, I rated the overall fit and comfort at 3.75 out of 5 because the snug sizing may be too much for some footprints. Do not expect a wide toe box with these trail shoes, and I’ve found that the foot shape last, while secure, does leave room for hot spots and blisters as you learn to run with these aggressive sneakers. Additionally, it may be wise to size up one half size for an optimal fit, or even peruse the brand’s wide-sizing options.

Despite the fitment issues, I still feel these can serve a purpose within your running shoe rotation, even if you rarely encounter mud-filled routes. The ROCK-PLATE shank across the midfoot does provide excellent security and protection against jagged boulders or sharp roots, so you can pace along your trailways with little concern over the safety of your toes and soles.

I rated the security at 4 out of 5, too, given the thicker upper material and protective overlays that can do wonders for preventing any scuffs, scrapes, or piercings during training.

Best Stability Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Cascadia 17

Brooks Cascadia 17

Brooks Cascadia 17

Trail running has you traversing over varied terrain with each twist and turn, so having a stable underfoot sensation is practically required. The Brooks Cascadia 17s utilize a Trail Adapt System, which employs multiple components including soft cushioning, outsole pods, and an integrated plate to help ensure each step feels natural and unhindered.

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Trail running can be a nightmare for athletes with stability issues since the terrain is so uneven. Thankfully, though, there are some trail shoes that cater to these needs, like the Cascadia 17s from Brooks. These sneakers feature a unique Trail Adapt System across the midsole and outsole to help create balanced landings in each stride for better confidence (and comfort) on the trail.

I’ve been trialing these updated shoes in tandem with their predecessors — the Brooks Cascadia 16 profile — and feel the brand has really taken a step forward in terms of in-training stability. I like the segmented outsole that can easily adapt to uneven terrain, and the protective shank across the middle gives the shoe some structure without feeling too rigid. Plus, DNA Loft v2 foam across the midsole is excellent for keeping steps cozy through the wilderness. I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5.

The Cascadia 17s are also simple to lock down thanks to the lacing system and flexible upper. The shoes run true to size, so there’s not a ton of play already, but the laces cinch down easily to help secure your foot for traversing rugged trailways. The upper is also well built — I’ve yet to notice a scrape or scuff — and features a sturdy TPU toe cap that runs the entire sidewall of the forefoot for added protection.

While I rated the protection offered in the Cascadia 17s at 4 out of 5, these levels of defense do compromise the breathability of the shoe. I rated the upper’s breathability at 3.75 out of 5 as they can begin to run hot when taking on a workout in warmer conditions.

The Brooks Cascadia 17s weigh in at 11 ounces, which is on the heavier side of trail shoes. Combine that notion with the fact that these shoes lack a certain responsiveness, and you can quickly confirm that these are not for tempo runs. For cruising through throughways with a heightened confidence and stability, though, they can be a fine sneaker.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Long Distances: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

With their anatomical design for a more natural fit and snappy yet comfortable ZipFoam midsole foam, the Ultraventure 3s from Topo Athletic can be a suitable trail shoe for a wide range of needs. A Vibram XS Trek EVO tread pattern also keeps these kicks grippy enough for moderate terrain, although mud and muck may be too much for the 5-millimeter lugs.

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For those longer jaunts through the trees and hills, you want a trail running shoe that can maintain a comfortable underfoot without clunking up your running gait once mileage enters double digits. Utilizing a ZipFoam midsole that delivers comfort, support, and even some responsiveness, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3s can be a nice addition to your running ensemble.

In testing, my strides felt natural in this shoe, and I appreciated everything the midsole design brought to the table. The stack height of 35 millimeters at the heel and 30 millimeters at the forefoot provided enough protection without compromising my sense of ground feel. Plus, I scored the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its soft cradling in each landing with enough energy return to keep me moving forward toward the trail’s end.

The upper of the Ultraventure 3s is also worthwhile, providing solid breathability to help prevent unwanted perspiration. The anatomical design, too, can be a blessing for your feet, as there’s no pinching or rubbing along the midfoot and toe box meaning there’s less of a chance of blisters.

However, I rated the fit at 4 out of 5 due to the curved heel counter. On occasions, I could feel this component digging into my Achilles, particularly on hill climbs.

In terms of traction, I’m a sucker for a Vibram outsole. The Ultraventure 3’s Vibram XS Trek EVO tread pattern showcased good durability and flex during trials, and I liked how these shoes felt natural when traversing different obstacles, graveled turns, and more. That said, though, I wouldn’t recommend these kicks for technical or advanced routes as the 5-millimeter lugs aren’t grippy enough for loose rocks or mud. Overall, I rated the traction at 3.75 out of 5.

Despite this outsole callout, I still think the Ultraventure 3s can be worthwhile for those that routinely enjoy maxing out their fitness tracker’s distance data. The ride is natural, there’s enough cushioning underfoot, and (provided you stay on regular terrain) you can get to wherever you’re going at a decent pace.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Winter Conditions: Icebug NewRun BUGrip GTX

Icebug NewRun BUGrip GTX

Icebug NewRun BUGrip GTX

Looking to hit the trails in the middle of winter? The NewRun BUGrip GTXs from Icebug feature a GORE-TEX membrane for improved weather resistance as well as an outsole with dynamic steel studs which can help you maintain your balance and running form even when pacing over ice-riddled trailways.

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If you think about it, running every day implies you’re running year-round. Try as we might, though, winter trail conditions can seriously stall your training streak if you’re ill-equipped with the wrong footwear. The NewRun BUGrip GTXs from Icebug feature a durable, studded outsole for better traction on ice, as well as a polyester and GORE-TEX-lined upper that can help put the freeze on any invading water or precipitation.

Admittedly, I’ve reserved these wintertime runners for packed trails and some road-to-trail throughways, and I don’t feel the outsole pattern is deep enough to take on snow-filled technical terrain. However, I rated the outsole at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the dynamic steel studs that can help you stay balanced and confident in your strides, especially when pacing across ice. Yes, the steel studs can be loud over asphalt, but I’m willing to deal with the noise for the sake of better footing.

Moving up the shoe, these Icebug profiles feature a rigid polyester upper and GORE-TEX membrane. This can help you stay dry and protected from the elements during outdoor workouts — a definite must when running in lower temps. Of course, though, the inclusion of a water-resistant membrane does compromise the shoe’s breathability, so I scored the upper at 4 out of 5. In my experience, the added warmth is actually a plus in winter, but be smart and don’t sweat out your sneakers if you don’t have to.

I also like the BOA Fit lacing system across the midfoot that can be ideal when trying to achieve a lockdown with your running gloves and layers on. Rather than your typical bunny knot, the quicklace system operates via turnstile toggle that tightens or loosens thin cords across your shoe.

You can really dial in your fit, which may be necessary more often than not. I rated the Icebugs at 3.5 out of 5 for fit since the design is wider than other sneakers and there’s less flexibility across the upper. Oh well, if you’re trail running in winter, a thicker sock isn’t the craziest idea.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Rocky Conditions: La Sportiva Bushido III

La Sportiva Bushido III

La Sportiva Bushido III

The third iteration of this iconic La Sportiva trail running shoe features a sticky rubber compound across the center of the outsole, improving grip and control in each step. Plus, the lug pattern extends upward along the edge of the midsole, helping you maintain traction even in off-kilter steps over rocks and obstacles.

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Naturally, trail running is going to involve uneven terrain, but if you’re more of a “cut your own path” type of athlete, odds are that your routes will be less pristine with jutting rocks and large boulders abound. For workouts involving these crags and obstacles, we recommend the La Sportiva Bushido IIIs thanks to their grippy, sticky outsole and pronounced lugs along the midsole for stable traction even when your steps are, say, more off-kilter than your proper running form.

Now, I’ve yet to trial these rock-ready trail shoes, but I have logged plenty of hill climbs in the previous Bushido iteration — the Bushido IIs. From what I can tell, the only true updates are a restyling along the outsole, some added mesh panels for better breathability (a big concern of mine in the Bushido IIs), and available wide sizing.

Regardless, I’ve always appreciated the Bi-Compound FriXion XT 2.0 V-Groove3 outsole of this trail shoe. The lugs are tacky enough that you can easily get over rocky terrain. My one go-to route, for example, treks through the base of an old quarry, and I’ve yet to have any missteps due to traction loss. I’d rate the Bushido III’s traction at 5 out of 5, and the overall outsole design at 4 out of 5 since the 4-millimeter lugs are still somewhat shallow for muddier conditions.

The Bushido IIIs also feature a thick TPU toe cap that can be excellent for keeping your feet secure during runs. If you’re traveling over less-groomed terrain, I always appreciate as much protection as possible.

Cushioning wise, this sneaker uses the same EVA midsole design as its predecessor. I’ve felt supported enough for backcountry excursions, but I wouldn’t necessarily call it a plush experience. I rated the cushioning at 4 out of 5 as you need a little rigidity to create that stable, rock-ready platform. So, as long as you understand the purpose of this sneaker and don’t take it on lengthy runs, you should feel a similar sensation.

Most Durable Trail Running Shoes: Norda 002

Norda 002

Norda 002

This impressive 002 silhouette from Norda is made with Dyneema, which is one of the strongest fibers on earth. While the price is heavy upfront, these kicks are designed to be a stalwart in your shoe rotation — you don’t need to replace a shoe if it can take the abuse and bounce back day in and day out.

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If you’re really invested in trail running, it can be beneficial to have a pair of shoes that will last you multiple seasons. While the price may be jarring at first, the Norda 002s showcase exceptional value thanks to their rugged durability. While the Vibram outsole is more sturdy than other rubbers, the real highlight of the profile is the Dyneema upper.

Dyneema is one of the strongest, lightest fibers on the planet and is trusted for ballistic helmets, crane ropes, and parachutes. (1) If it can withstand these stresses, what do you think it can do in the footwear space?

I’ve run in Norda’s other silhouette, the Norda 001, and can attest to the strength of the Dyneema design. I scored the Norda 002’s upper at 4 out of 5, though, given that Dyneema, while durable, is not breathable at all. If you’re training under the hot sun, expect to sweat through your socks.

[Related: What Does It Take To Get Into Trail Running? An Ultrarunner Shares His Secrets]

The laces also contain Dyneema fibers, which can be great for durability and structure across an often forgotten shoe component. However, the strength of the fabric does limit its stretch. I’ve found that the knots can come undone easily, especially if you don’t cinch down the laces tightly.

I also like the Norda 002s simply for the style at play. Unlike other trail shoes that feature vibrant patterns and bright colorways, the 002s are more neutral. This can lend itself to more versatile wear, even with normal attire. I scored the style at 4 out of 5 as I think this is the best example of athletic pursuits meeting the gorpcore style trend (look it up).

Of course, the price cannot be ignored — nearly $300 for a single pair of shoes is pricey for any budget. However, I still scored the value at 4 out of 5 as I feel the Norda 002s can easily last multiple years on the trail. It’s a steep upfront investment, but the kicks can pay for themselves in no time.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Lone Peak 8

Altra Lone Peak 8

Altra Lone Peak 8

The Lone Peak 8s are Altra’s trail-ready silhouette crafted with many of the brand’s signature components including a minimalist 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop and anatomical FootShape profile for better fitment. The Lone Peak 8s also feature a more resilient ripstop nylon upper that can be sturdy enough for the wear and tear of trail running while still retaining some breathability along the design.

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Wider-footed athletes can sometimes struggle to find proper-fitting trail shoes. However, there are some silhouettes that naturally cater to these foot sizes like the Lone Peak 8s from Altra. These trail shoes utilize the brand’s signature FootShape design to create an anatomical footprint that’s roomy across the midfoot and spacious enough in the toe box to eliminate any unwanted rubbing.

I also rated the fit of the Lone Peak 8s at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the Ghillie-style lacing that allows for a customized lockdown across the top of the foot. You feel locked into the sneaker, but it’s not a constricting fit that could otherwise compromise the comfort level.

The Lone Peak 8s also feature a new ripstop nylon upper, which I scored at 4 out of 5 and feel is a great addition to this Altra profile’s makeup. The previous Lone Peak 7s had a mesh upper that was breathable and cozy yet lacked a certain sense of sturdiness. The new ripstop nylon improves the overall protection while still giving you some ventilation for those extra-hot days on the trail.

Unfortunately, though, Altra is still using the MaxTrac outsole in this sneaker. In my experience with multiple trail running silhouettes, this is my least favorite outsole pattern. The lugs are too shallow for muddy conditions, and the material itself wears down easily and can lead to slippery steps even when on packed trailways.

I also rated the overall ride at 3.75 out of 5 given this shoe’s zero-drop design. Barefoot running, according to studies (and lore), is designed to help you achieve a more natural running gait and may be more beneficial for your body. (2) However, it takes some foot strength to hop from a higher drop shoe directly into a minimalist silhouette. If you’re curious about these sneakers, I suggest taking your time and getting used to the underfoot sensation — it’s not for every footprint.

Best Customizable Trail Running Shoes: Speedland GS:PGH

Speedland GS:PGH

Speedland GS:PGH

With a unique drop-in midsole that’s compatible with Carbitex GearFlex plates for added energy return, the GS:PGHs from Speedland can be an ideal pick for athletes wanting to mix up their training between comfortable jaunts and speed-focused runs. The dual BOA Li2 dials along the upper also allow for a fine-tuned fit that can be easily loosened or tightened with the simple turn of the toggle.

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Having the ability to customize your trail running footwear can help create an optimized ride and training experience that caters to your wants and needs. The GS:PGHs from Speedland offer a heightened sense of customization thanks to their dual BOA Li2 lacing system for micro adjustments across the lockdown, as well as a unique drop-in midsole that can pair with compatible carbon fiber plates for more or less energy return.

I’ve had multiple pairs of GS variations over the years and really enjoy the versatility across the drop-in midsole. The component operates like a traditional drop-in insole and I like how easy it is to add the Carbitex GearFlex plates for days where tempo and speed are desired. I rated the midsole at 4.5 out of 5, too, because the cupped sidewalls create a comfortable cradle for your foot for added security.

The BOA Li2 toggles also deserve some praise thanks to their quick and intuitive operation. Rather than popping the turnstiles to loosen the attached cables, you can simply turn the dials one way or another to achieve your desired fit. Given this ability to micro adjust your comfort, as well as the anatomical layout of the shoe itself, I rated the fit at 5 out of 5.

[Related: How Many Calories Are Burned Running a Mile?]

As impressive as this shoe is, though, I couldn’t score the value any higher than 3.5 out of 5. The $275 price tag is above the average trail shoe, and the Carbitex GearFlex plates are sold separately meaning an extra purchase is required to unlock the full customizability of the profile. Additionally, the GS lineup is sold in limited batches — don’t be surprised to find your specific size out of stock.

Thankfully, though, if you do find that the GS:PGHs are out of stock, the GS:PDX, GS:OAK, and GS:TAM silhouettes are all virtually the same sneaker with slight differences in weight. You’ll just need to compromise on the colorway.

Benefits of Trail Running Shoes

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, your footwear can be one of the most important pieces in your fitness regimen, “especially if you follow an exercise protocol that requires versatile shoes.” As such, a proper pair of trail running shoes can vastly improve your experiences through the exciting and adventurous training discipline. Below are some of the perks that can come with adding trail running shoes to your workout arsenal.

• Improved Traction: Trail running shoes feature a more aggressive outsole than road running sneakers, which can be beneficial for maintaining traction along the uneven and loose terrain. Think of it like putting all-terrain tires on your car — the deeper lugs and more aggressive tread pattern can easily grip mud, rocks, and dirt for a better ride.
• Protection from Terrain: Trail running also involves you scaling over obstacles like roots, logs, and boulders which, on occasion, can lead to unwanted impacts that leave you feeling sore across your feet. Shoes designed for trail running feature harder, more durable overlays in key areas like the toe box to help you stay protected as you pace through your outdoor-minded workouts.
• Limits Footwear Overuse: Having a pair of trail running sneakers can also be a benefit for your other running shoes, too. Having footwear for each terrain can help preserve each silhouette’s integrity and prevent overuse while also allowing the midsole foams to fully rebound in-between workouts.

How Much Do Trail Running Shoes Cost?

As with other specialized footwear for ultramarathons, race day, stability, and even shoes for treadmill running, you can expect to pay a little more for trail running shoes than your average pair of loafers. In our years of testing and reviewing footwear, though, we’ve determined that roughly $175 can be a good median price to start with when looking at the category. Read below to compare the prices of trail running shoes featured in this round-up.

What to Consider Before Buying Trail Running Shoes

Like any piece of fitness equipment, there are a few factors to consider before deciding on a pair of trail running shoes. From your typical trail conditions to the shoe’s cushioning, fit, price, and more, here are the components we recommend thinking through as you work through the purchasing process.

Terrain Conditions

Naturally, your trail running shoes should feature a more aggressive outsole that’s designed for running on uneven and loose ground. However, it can be beneficial to also consider the specific conditions of your intended trails, as certain tread patterns can cater to different terrains.

For example, if you know your trail is filled with mud puddles or bogs, it can be wise to opt for a tread featuring deeper lugs to accommodate the wet, mucky conditions. If you routinely train atop packed trailways or paved hiking routes, you may be better off with a less aggressive outsole.

While this awareness may call for a field trip to your trails before purchase, you can also use technology to see what you’re likely up against before getting out into the wild. Some running apps offer descriptions for specific trails, with condition reports and photos to better gauge your terrain.

Cushioning

Finding the right cushioning for trail running is a little different than searching for cushioning in other running shoes. Yes, you want to opt for a comfortable ride that keeps your feet cozy through landings and toe-offs, but you also want to preserve a sense of ground feel that can allow you to adjust your steps in accordance with the terrain.

In my experience, a trail shoe that’s too plush can leave you disconnected from the path underfoot, which can result in errant strides over looser ground and unwanted slips and spills. That said, however, there’s no need to feel every pebble you trek over. It’s a give and take, so look for a midsole design that gives you a mix of both comfort and feel that matches your needs best.

Over-Foot Protection 

The rough terrain of trail running can put your feet through a lot, so having a protective design can be beneficial when taking on a route filled with obstacles. Typically, it can be wise to opt for a trail shoe with a pronounced toe cap, since this is an area that can be most exposed to impacts with jutting roots and large rocks. Other protective components include midsole rock plates, side wall shields, and higher ankle collars to help keep pebbles and debris from getting inside your shoe.

If you’re tackling more groomed trailways, you can likely get away with just a stable toe cap and a resilient upper. For more advanced paths, though, I recommend erring on the side of caution. Be mindful, though, that extra overlays can compromise your shoe’s breathability, so be prepared to sweat if your profile is decked out with multiple defense mechanisms.

[Related: Running on a Treadmill Vs. Running Outside — Which Is Best for Your Goals?]

Fit

Of course, your trail shoes should accordingly. Be sure to look for profiles offered in your foot size and look at the brand’s specific size guide to see if you need to size up or down for an ideal fitment. For larger-footed athletes, it can be wise to look for trail running shoes offered in wide sizing, too.

Price

On average, trail running shoes cost roughly $175, although you can find many top-performing silhouettes for prices between $140 and $150. The median price tag is skewed higher given that some trail shoes can cost upwards of $300 due to their durable fabrics, carbon-plated midsoles, and convenient lacing systems.

In the end, though, the best trail running shoe for your training preferences is the one that fits your budget best. Crunch some numbers and determine how much you’re willing to spend on a pair of outdoor-ready kicks and begin your search there.

Best Trail Running Shoes FAQs

References

1. Sanborn, B., DiLeonardi, A. M., & Weerasooriya, T. (2014, December 24). Tensile properties of Dyneema SK76 single fibers at multiple loading rates using a direct gripping method – journal of dynamic behavior of materials. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40870-014-0001-3
2. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, April 30). The benefits of barefoot running. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/barefoot-running 

The post The 14 Best Trail Running Shoes in 2024, Tried and Tested by Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

Our team has tried and tested nearly 20 of the most popular vests for running, and I’ve personally put 10 of them through the paces. While navigating our recommendations, you’ll want to consider the type of training you’re looking to support. Do you need a hydration sleeve for ultramarathon efforts? How much gear and goodies do you want to carry with you? Do you want to keep cool or heat things up? Whether you’re looking to tackle the high elevation of Colorado’s 14ers or need some extra visibility while cruising the busy streets of Los Angeles, our top picks below have you covered.

The 9 Best Running Vests of 2024

• Best Running Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
• Best Cold Weather Running Vest: Nike Therma-Fit Swift
• Best Lightweight Running Vest for Women: Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest
• Best Weighted Vest for Running: Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE 
• Best Hydration Running Vest: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
• Best Luxury Running Vest: Lululemon Down For it All Vest
• Best Lightweight Running Vest for Men: REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest – Men’s
• Best Trail Running Vest: Nathan Sports Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest
• Best Reflective Running Vest: Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest

How We Tested and Chose the Best Running Vests

The BarBend team includes marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and “I go running because it helps with my mental health” athletes —  aka, me — and we’ve personally tested nearly 20 running vests in our search for the best gear for your long-distance and sprint-training sessions. 

The BarBend equipment testing methodology is simple. We scored each profile in categories such as comfort, fit, and adjustability on a scale from 1 (not great) to 5 (awesome). We focused on the following areas of interest when testing and selecting the top vests.

• Comfort: “I look at the seams and feel of the textiles and how much irritation they can cause once I start to sweat,” says trail runner and BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger about what he looks for in a running vest. “I’ve had past vests that turned my shoulders into giant hot spots.” We prioritized vests made from nylon and polyester for their stretchiness, breathability, and water-resistant qualities.
• Adjustability: “Having the ability to adjust the vest means you can cater an already-well-sized piece of clothing even more to properly fit the specifics of your body,” notes marathon runner Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1. We opted for vests with adjustable front fasteners and easy-to-use side pulls to help users find the right fit.
• Price: To accommodate a wide range of users, we’ve included options that range from $25 up to $230.99. While lower-priced vests can lack storage and versatility, higher-priced models tend to offer a wider range of pockets and lighter overall weights. We also included a weighted vest that can assist with HIIT workouts or CrossFit WODs.
• Features: When making our picks, we looked for zipper pockets, breathable fabrics, insulated panels, whistles, bladder pouches, soft flasks, and more. Our picks tout a variety of features to support your training, regardless of the weather, mileage, or training intensity.

Best Running Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest

Patagonia Slope Runner Vest

Patagonia Slope Runner Vest

This hydration running vest includes two 500-ml HydraPak flasks and a bladder pouch in the back to help keep water at the ready during your runs. There's also ample storage, including a secure zipper pocket in the back, and trekking pole loops on the back and front.

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The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest looks like a simple hydration running vest, but it’s super adjustable and has tons of storage so you’re comfortable and equipped during running workouts through the city or on a backcountry trail. I took this vest out on three separate weekends to see how I liked it compared to the competition, and while I think it’s best suited for long expeditions, it ended up being my favorite companion on my jogs. Functionality, comfort, and workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.

Made from polyester, nylon, and spandex, it’s lightweight at just 6.9 ounces. I also liked the breathability provided by the mesh shoulders, back, and sides. You get two 500-milliliter HydraPak flasks with this vest, both of which fit securely on the front of the pouch. If you’ve never used these before, once they’re filled up, all you have to do is bite on the mouthpiece to drink. 

Let’s talk about storage, because this vest isn’t playing around. There are four front pockets: two hold your HydraPak flasks, and the other two are perfect for keeping snacks at the ready or even stowing a phone — my iPhone 12 Pro Max fits entirely within all of these pockets. Loops on the back and front of the vest can also hold your trekking poles. Functionality scored a 5 out of 5.

On the back of the vest, there’s a zipper compartment to keep your valuables. I also really like that there’s a key clip to save you from that dreaded moment when you get back to your car after a long run and start frantically patting down every pocket, thinking “I guess I live here now.” You’ll also find a bladder pouch on the back for your longer expeditions and a large stash pouch for jackets, which we found reachable mid-stride in a pair of our best running shoes.

Compared to other hydration vests I’ve tried, this doesn’t feel as durable, which is wild considering the $169 price tag — almost $50 to $90 more than others on the market. Durability scored a 4 out of 5. However, Patagonia does mend damaged gear for free (plus a small shipping fee). 

My biggest gripe with this vest is the front fasteners. It took me six attempts to try and get the lower plastic hook to link to the bungee cord when fastening the vest shut. 

Best Cold Weather Running Vest: Nike Therma-FIT Swift

Nike Therma-FIT Swift Vest

Nike Therma-FIT Swift Vest

This vest features side zip pockets to keep your valuables secure and Nike's double-brushed microfiber Therma fleece which helps to keep body heat in and cold weather out.

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The Nike Therma-FIT Swift running vest is cool — like, I look really cool in this vest, thank you for noticing — and warm. The double-brushed microfiber fleece helps to keep your body heat in, and the loose-fitting design provides a slight androgynous fit that can still be cinched at the waist if you want to trap more heat in or show off ‘dem curves! Functionality, feel, and comfort scored a 5 out of 5.

I wear this vest every weekend (and daily just around the house) for chilly early morning beach volleyball sessions. I’m in Southern California, and I’ve found this vest is best when it’s around 55 degrees and I’m at the beach before the sun’s up. 

It’s ideal for chilly weather, but not something that’s going to protect you from a heavy downpour, snow, or harsh winds. Its loose fit is great for layering, so it’s a nice accessory to have on chilly mornings that turn into hot afternoons. I also like that it gives me enough freedom of movement to support my running warm-ups. Comfort scored a 5 out of 5.

The zippered side pockets are large enough to hold my iPhone 12 Pro Max, keys, and wallet. And I like the reflective details for night visibility on the bottom back of the vest and where the Nike swoosh is on the front. There’s also a waist cinch, which is useful to help trap in even more heat, but I didn’t love the placement of this near my belly button since it accentuates the hips and chest when cinched.

I found it lightweight and compact — I could even stuff it in my gym bag. However, when doing this I got sunscreen on the back of it, and the steps to wash it had me worried that this vest wouldn’t prove to be durable. I needed to zip up all the closures, turn it inside out, machine wash it cold, and hang it to dry. 

It’s also worth noting that the garment shouldn’t be laid on itself when wet. After the wash, the sunscreen was still on the vest — I blame myself, but you’ve been warned. Durability scored a 3 out of 5. 

Also, while I absolutely love this vest, I do wish that they would have included a locker loop so I don’t have to break out a hanger whenever I’m not using it.

[Related: The Best Gym Bags]

Best Lightweight Running Vest for Women: Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest

Columbia Women's Endless Trail Running Vest

Columbia Women's Endless Trail Running Vest

This lightweight running vest can be packed into a pocket for easy transport. It also features Omni-Shield coating, which helps to repel water and stains.

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The Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest is our choice for the best lightweight running vest for women as it provides more space in the chest and hips than many unisex vests. While this vest provides a lot of warmth, it’s lightweight and compact, and can be stuffed inside an interior pocket for easy storage. Functionality, comfort, and adjustability scored a 5 out of 5. I wore this vest for early morning jogs, layered on top of a long-sleeve shirt, and it felt light and warm (not hot) when the weather was around 50 degrees.

The shell is made from nylon, a lightweight and durable material that won’t bog you down when teaching yourself how to run faster. (2) This shell also features Omni-Shield, a water and stain-resistant technology that helps make this vest quick-drying, so you can hit the trail day after day, even in wet conditions. 

When I wore this vest, it reminded me of the Nike FIT Swift vest. It’s fairly warm, not too tight on the body, and has zipper side pockets. However, it wins out for practicality due to the inclusion of internal drop pockets, the ability to pack this vest into a pocket for easy storage, and a locker loop that lets me hang it up by the front door. 

I also like that there’s a waist drawstring at the very bottom of the vest, unlike the Swift’s central waist cinch. Adjustability scored a 5 out of 5.

There is some reflective material on the front and back of this vest, but it’s not going to give you a ton of visibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, the reflective detail on the back is smaller than a quarter and placed below the collar, so my ponytail could easily hide it from view — so you may need to split your attention between watching traffic and practicing proper running form.

And while this vest is machine washable (cold), washing it didn’t remove the chalk stains I had from wearing this while rock climbing. As such, you’ll want to be careful about what comes in contact with this vest, as stains may not be easily removed. Durability scored  4 out of 5.

Best Weighted Vest for Running: Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE

Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite

Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite

The Hyper Vest Elite features a contoured design and lightweight Cordura makeup that almost feels like you’re wearing your favorite training shirt instead of a weight vest. Depending on your chosen size, you can achieve added resistance of up to 25 pounds, more than enough to help bolster your next sweat session.

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The Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE is one of the best weighted vests we’ve tested. It comes with bite-sized steel weights that you can distribute throughout the vest to intensify runs, sprints, plyometric training, or CrossFit WODs. All told, you can add up to 20 pounds of weight to the vest — depending on the size — though each weight weighs just 2.25 ounces to allow for incremental adjustments. Movement freedom scored a 4.5 out of 5, while adjustability, breathability, and security scored a 4 out of 5.

The side lacing allows for a unisex adjustable fit, suitable for all body types. “Adjusting the sides only takes a moment,” noted our tester, who scored adjustability a 4 out of 5.  “While it’s easy to adjust and I was able to create a nice, snug fit, I’m a little concerned about it stretching out over time.” Durability scored a 4 out of 5. 

“Unlike other weight vests that have weight distributed awkwardly, this vest feels like a t-shirt,” added our tester, who gave movement freedom a 4.5 out of 5. “Running in this vest felt super comfortable.” They credit the use of thin CORDURA fabric — a material also found in some of the best cross-training shoes — which can help keep mobility unrestricted.

Each vest comes with 10 pounds of weight pre-loaded into the vest, but there are options to add an additional 5 to 10 pounds for an additional cost. The chart below shows each vest’s weight capacity and height recommendation.

While we appreciate the ability to micro-adjust the amount of weight on each vest, our tester found making these adjustments to be a pain. “The little weight plates are tricky to get in and out of the vest,” they said. “I wouldn’t want to adjust this vest often.” 

Additionally, the max weight capacity on the Hyperwear ELITE here isn’t as high as other weight vests we’ve tested, which can provide up to 50 or 60 pounds of weighted resistance.

Best Hydration Running Vest: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8

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The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8

The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8

This hydration running vest comes with two HydraPak soft flasks and has a bladder pouch in the back, so you can stay hydrated while on the trail. The deep back zipper compartment can hold onto your valuables, plus keep a jacket on hand for when the weather shifts.

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Staying hydrated while logging miles is essential, and the North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8 aims to keep you sucking down H2O without fail throughout your training. This running hydration vest comes with two 500-milliliter HydraPak soft flasks, plus a 2-liter hydration reservoir in the back with internal routing to give you easy access to the straw when you need it. 

I wore this on a little 5-mile loop and I don’t think I’ve ever felt so inclined to stay on top of my hydration. Workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.

The last race I did was in Japan for the Senshuu International Marathon, and in the last 5 kilometers, my entire body started to cramp up. If I could do it all over again, I would have thrown this vest on, filled up a bladder with water, and packed the HydraPak flasks with the best electrolyte supplements. 

One qualm with this vest is the fabric fastener that’s supposed to keep your bladder pack secure. The fastener is weak, even when brand new, and this can lead to the bladder pouch sloshing around unrestrained in the back pocket.

There’s tons of storage on this vest. Five front pockets, a bladder pouch, a trekking pole holder, and a deep, secure main compartment in the back. Unlike some other hydration running vests, my phone could only fit in the sleeves where the HydraPak flasks fit, so if you want your phone nearby, you may need to swap out one of these flasks. Additionally, the lower pockets for snacks are shallow, and I couldn’t fully relax into my run for fear that my watermelon-flavored peach rings would pop out. Functionality scored a 4 out of 5.

I preferred the fit and adjustments on this vest to others I’ve tested. The front closure buckles were easy to snap together, and side adjustments could be made to tighten or loosen the fit. Adjustability scored a 5 out of 5.

Best Luxury Running Vest: Lululemon Down For it All Vest

Lululemon Down for it All Vest

Lululemon Down for it All Vest

This cold-weather vest has goose-down and PrimaLoft insulation to keep you warm as temperatures drop. Keep your valuables secure in the zipper pockets, and stash some snacks or other goodies in the deep side drop pockets. Constructed with Glyde fabric, this vest is water-resistant and windproof.

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The Lululemon Down for it All vest is our choice for the best luxury running vest due to its goose-down fill and sleek form-fitting design. I’m a little (a lot) obsessed with Lululemon, and I have spent more than I’m willing to admit on leggings, shirts, tank tops, bras, the best booty shorts… it’s a problem. This vest is on par with all of my favorites from the brand and keeps me warm whether I’m on a late-night jog or hanging with friends beside a bonfire.

Warmth scored a 5 out of 5, not just for the comfort provided by the goose feathers and stretchy fleece, but also by how the PrimaLoft insulation on the collar stays warm even when wet. 

While I don’t love the fit of this vest, I’m evolved enough to admit that’s probably just a personal preference — this vest highlights my chest and hips while dipping in on my waist, and that’s not a look I like. Granted, I’m not a luxury gal — I regularly eat cold soup straight from the can — and this is a luxury product.

Storage scored a 5 out of 5. There are zipper pockets on the front and large drop pockets on the sides, all of which can easily fit my iPhone 12 Pro Max. I don’t usually trust drop pockets, but they have an elastic band on top that makes it tough for my gear to fall out. 

When I wore this during a run, the zipper and collar were annoying. When zipped up, the collar hits the bottom of my chin. The only viable way for me to wear this vest is if I’m running in the winter and have a neck gaiter on underneath. Otherwise, I’m doomed to suffer chin chafing. Comfort scored a 3 out of 5.

The length of this vest hits below the hips, which can help keep you warm. However, when seated, this causes the front to bunch up. Perhaps I picked the wrong size, but, to be honest, I could write a dissertation on my problems with Lululemon sizing. It’s all over the place. Typically, I wear a size 2 and a small top, but I wear a size 6 to 12 from Lululemon, depending on the product. I’d recommend trying this vest on in stores if you’re interested.

Best Lightweight Running Vest for Men: REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest

REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest - Men's

REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest - Men's

Lightweight, breathable, and packable — this running vest can add a touch of warmth while helping to keep wind and light rain off you. Keep your valuables secure with the zippered chest pocket which doubles as the pouch you can stuff this vest into.

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From running on one of the best treadmills to navigating outdoor trails, the minimalist REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest is our choice for the best lightweight running vest for men due to its airy, barely-there feel and a shape specifically crafted for men. This vest weighs 2.9 ounces — about half as heavy as a billiard ball — and I hardly noticed I had it on during climbs and jogs. (3) Comfort, durability, and overall experience scored a 5 out of 5.

If you’re looking for something that you can stuff in your bag and have with you when you need it, this may be the right vest for you. My climbing bag is filled to the brim, but I had no problem stuffing this inside. While you can pack it up into the chest zip pocket, you can also just smoosh it down — when smooshed, it fits inside my cupped hands. Packability scored a 5 out of 5.

This is a men’s vest, but I loved the silhouette on my frame. For reference, I wear a size small in women’s vests but sized up to a medium here so the lowest part of the vest didn’t get stuck on my hips. There’s also a slight amount of stretch to the fabric, which makes sizing a little more forgiving. Fit scored a 5 out of 5.

This vest is fairly simple, but there is a locker hook for hanging and a drawstring cinch on the bottom to keep the vest more fitted to your body. There isn’t much storage on this vest, but there is a zippered chest pocket to hold some of your valuables. I was impressed that my iPhone 12 Max Pro fit into this pocket, although running with my phone there pulls awkwardly on the vest, so you may want to store your phone elsewhere. Optionality scored a 3 out of 5.

While there are reflective details on this vest, they’re fairly small so they won’t be too helpful for training sessions in low visibility. It’s also treated with a durable water repellent to help keep water off you while running in the rain.

I’d recommend this vest for those looking for a little extra coverage on breezy days, or those wanting to add extra layers without bogging themselves down. I gave my overall experience with this vest a 5 out of 5.

Best Trail-Running Vest: Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest

Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest

Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest

This ultra-light and breathable running vest comes with a soft flask to keep you hydrated, velcro pockets on the front for your snacks, and a secure zippered pouch in the back.

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When hitting the trails, you’ll want a race vest that keeps you hydrated, with enough storage to stash a jacket, stow your valuables, and keep snacks within reach. The Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest is light, breathable, and ready to support your LISS cardio trail runs with a water flask, a secure zippered back pouch, and multiple pockets to hide away mid-mile fuel. Fit and comfort scored a 5 out of 5, while the storage capacity scored a 4 out of 5.

Twin pockets on the front can hold 20-ounce water flasks, and you’ll also get one HydraPak 500-milliliter soft flask to keep you hydrated during long loops. Even as the sun beats down on you, the power mesh shoulder and back panels can help keep you cool, allowing for more air flow between your sweaty body and the vest. Comfort scored a 5 out of 5.

The rear pouch features a side zip that can be used to hold onto your valuables. When I used this vest, I liked that I was able to reach into this pocket to pull out my jacket without having to take the vest off. Plus, I didn’t have a problem keeping my keys and wallet in one of the front pouches thanks to the fabric fastener. 

However, pockets scored a 3 out of 5. I knocked this down two points because I would have preferred to have a more secure zipper pocket dedicated exclusively for keys or a wallet.

If your run takes you longer than expected and you’re heading back to your car at dusk, the large reflective lettering on the front and back can help keep you visible to traffic. Compared to the best hydration packs I tried, this one was the most visible at night.

The mesh shoulder straps felt comfortable thanks to the lightweight 4.4-ounce build. However, this lighter weight comes at the cost of an included bladder pouch on the running pack, so those looking to tackle some serious miles may want to consider if that’s something they need. Hydration scored a 3 out of 5.

[Related: How Much Water Do You Really Need to Drink a Day?]

Lastly, I didn’t love how long the chest straps were when I had everything tightened. The excess material on the sternum strap dangled down in front of me and swooshed back and forth throughout my run. 

Best Reflective Running Vest: Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest

Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest

Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest

Stand out in low-light settings with this elastic reflective vest, providing 360 degrees of visibility.

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The Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest really does just one thing, but it does that one thing well. This vest is our choice for the best reflective running vest because it’s affordable at just $25 and can provide 360 degrees of reflectivity in low-light scenarios. Value, portability, and price scored a 5 out of 5.

While I’m not the biggest runner anymore — I did two marathons and then switched my training to sprints for more explosive speed — I am an avid cyclist and this vest will now have a home  in my bike bag. 

There isn’t a neat way to fold this vest up, but when folded (crumpled) up, it takes up about the size of a hamburger patty. I hate riding at night on the streets of Los Angeles, and this vest’s visibility helps give me some peace of mind when I get caught rushing home before the sun sets. Portability scored a 5 out of 5.

[Related: How Long is a Marathon?]

The vest is made from elastic bands that wrap over your shoulders and around your waist. You secure them in the front with a fabric fastener. The length over the shoulders and width around the waist can be easily adjusted, creating a secure fit for most bodies. However, since this is a one size fits most vest, it may not suit all body types. Runners who are extra large around the waist or have been graced with NBA height may find these adjustments just aren’t enough. Adjustability scored a 4 out of 5.

I like how lightweight it is. I’m easily able to toss it on over running gear, but the best part about it is its versatility. I’ve used this vest during running and biking outings, and I’m already thinking about getting one for my mom for some added visibility when she walks her dog. Versatility scored a 4 out of 5.

Benefits of Running Vests

Running vests can help keep your body temperature regulated in hot, rainy, or chilly conditions, though some options also come with hydration packs, slots for weights, and plenty of pockets. Check out the benefits of these vests below, which can support your quest for the benefits of cardio whether you’re running on the street, on trails, or at the gym.

• Storage: “I like a running vest with a ton of pockets to hold gel, keys — even my iPhone and a packable jacket for cold starts,” said marathon runner Mykee Del Mundo. While some running vests don’t offer storage, many vests have a variety of drop, zip, and fabric pockets and bladder pouches to hold the gear you need.
• Hydration: When you’re out on longer trail runs, a hydration vest can help you replenish the water your body’s lost through sweat. (4) Hydration running vests often include 1- to 2-liter bladder pouches on the back or pockets on the front to store soft water bottle flasks.
• Stay Warm, Cool, or Dry: The materials and coating of these vests are chosen for their ability to heat you up, cool you down, or repel water when you’re caught in a downpour. Commonly-used materials include warm polyester, water-resistant polypropylene, and nylon, which is breathable, sweat-wicking, and stretchy. 
• Distraction-Free: Running vests are often designed to be adjustable to your frame. This way, you can keep everything you need within reach and adjust fits to limit bounce, ensuring distraction-free runs.

How Much Do Running Vests Cost?

Our picks for the best running vests range in price from $25 to $230.99. Keep in mind that not all vests are created equal. The most expensive options on our list are weighted vests to increase intensity during your training and race vests with hydration capabilities. The most affordable option doesn’t have any pockets, and is purely just meant to add some visibility to your run for evening or early morning workouts.

What to Consider Before Buying a Running Vest

Whether you’re gearing up to hit the trails or curious how to stay hydrated while working out, slipping on one of the best running vests can help support your efforts. Consider the following areas before making a purchase.

Hydration Vests Vs. Other Vests

Your first step in figuring out which vest is right for you and your needs is figuring out what you want from your gear. If you want to stay hydrated, look for vests with flask pockets or hydration bladders. “When I’m training for a triathlon, especially the running portion, hydration is so crucial. I tend to sweat a lot, so I always try to have at least one water bottle per hour when I’m training,” says Bojana Gailic, tri-athlete and BarBend editorial member.

If hydration isn’t your concern, and you want something lightweight to layer on when you want additional protection from the elements, look for a vest that’s packable. Other options include weighted vests that can add intensity to your training and insulated vests that help keep you warm when the temperature drops.

Fit

“If your vest is not fitted correctly, it will flop around, shift, or squeeze you uncomfortably during your workout, in which case you probably won’t ever end up wearing it,” says our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto. Certified personal trainer Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, agrees. “Getting the right fit is key, because a vest that’s too tight will restrict movement and potentially create labored breathing,” she says. “A vest that’s too big will feel heavy and could get in the way of your arm movement, which is mostly annoying but could affect your running form.”

Fit is even more crucial as you log longer and longer days in your running shoes. “Any small movement, especially up against a sports bra, will start to chafe after a couple hours on the trail. With my previous vest, I experienced bleeding in… well, places you don’t want to have an open wound,” says Meg Leary, a trail runner who’s dabbled in ultra marathons. “Being able to adjust the tightness across various points means that I can minimize that movement and the necessity of constant BodyGlide applications.”

Depending on the amount of running you plan to do with a vest on, make sure it features enough adjustments to provide you with a fit that’ll be comfortable from start to finish.

Distance

“For extended runs that are 10+ miles, I have a roomier vest that can hold my trekking poles across the back. I also like to keep my headlamp in tote for these longer routes, especially during the fall when daylight can dissipate quicker,” says BarBend editorial member and trail runner Ben Emminger. “A packable rain jacket will make its way into my pack, too, if inclement weather is a possibility.” 

If you have your eyes set on longer distances, look for packs with more storage, trekking pole holders, and bladder pouches to keep you fueled for the miles ahead.

Weather

For hot weather conditions, look for vests with breathable mesh to keep you cool and the ability to carry water throughout your run. “Hydration vests, in particular, are great for longer runs or running on hot days,” notes marathon runner Patrick Aubin. “I can get a little sweaty in a vest when the sun’s really beating down on me, but it’s worth it for the extra hydration.” 

For cold weather conditions, look for vests with insulation, drop tail designs, and waist cinchers to keep your heat in and the cold weather out. This makes it easier for you to keep running everyday, even when your bed or under a blanket try to entice you away.

Storage

“I use a running vest kind of out of necessity since a lot of my running shorts don’t have zippered pockets. Plus, I feel it’s more comfortable to wear my small essentials across my chest and back rather than at my sides where gravity can take over and create a slapping sensation over my thighs,” says Emminger. “My vests double as hydration packs, too, so they’re a means to keep water on me during longer trail runs.”

Gel, keys, wallet, jacket, extra socks, a small squished peanut butter and jelly sandwich (which honestly tastes better after heating up against your back over the course of a 7-mile run) — whatever you want to carry with you, there’s a pack built to hold what you want.

Best Running Vests FAQs

References

1. Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
2. Bennett, J. (n.d.) Utah Education Network. Clothing Fibers. https://www.uen.org/cte/facs_cabinet/downloads/ClothingI/S3O1ClothingFibers-ExampleProject.pdf
3. The Measure of Things. (2024). 3 ounces. Retrieved May 21, 2024 from www.themeasureofthings.com/results.php?comp=weight&unit=oz&amt=3&sort=pr&p=1
4. Latzka, W. A., & Montain, S. J. (1999). Water and electrolyte requirements for exercise. Clinics in sports medicine, 18(3), 513–524. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70165-4

The post The 9 Best Running Vests of 2024 (Personally Tested) appeared first on BarBend.

We understand that “recovery footwear” may be unknown to most — many brands have just begun to design silhouettes targeting this niche category. So, to give you a leg up on maximizing your downtime between training sessions, we’ve slipped into multiple top-rated kicks and consulted with our in-house team of experts to come up with our list of the best recovery shoes available today.

The 9 Best Recovery Shoes of 2024

• Best Recovery Shoes Overall: Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes
• Best Budget Recovery Shoes: Adidas Adissage Slides
• Most Versatile Recovery Shoes: Under Armour UA SlipSpeed
• Best Recovery Shoes for Around the House: Teva ReEMBER
• Best Slip-On Recovery Shoes: HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2
• Best Shoes for Recovery Runs: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
• Best Recovery Sandal: OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandal
• Best Recovery Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal
• Most Comfortable Recovery Shoes: Topo Athletic Revive 

How We Tested and Chose the Best Recovery Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best recovery shoes, we got hands-on with 15 different shoe profiles from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

• Cushioning: One of the main factors separating recovery shoes from other footwear is the pronounced underfoot cushioning for added comfort post-training. All of the shoes featured in this guide either feature a well-cushioned midsole to keep your steps plush and a cozy footbed that isn’t harsh on your heel and forefoot.
• Durability: You don’t want to look at your pair of recovery shoes only to find that they’re worse for the wear after just a few uses. All of the picks in this round-up feature durable upper materials and resilient outsole tread patterns for sustained traction over time — provided you aren’t wearing your recovery footwear more than necessary.
• Ease of Entry: Having a convenient slip-on design can be more inviting post-workout than trying to lace up a pair of kicks with little energy left in the tank. For this curated list, we sought to favor slip-on recovery shoes over laced silhouettes, as they’re naturally an easier form of footwear to get into and out of.
• Arch Support: ​​When your feet are tired, you’re likely to showcase a less-refined walking or running form, which can lead to compromised landings that may lead to pain across your arches. We made note of recovery shoes featuring a contoured footbed that could better dissipate the pressure of each step evenly across your foot, giving you a break from landing flat-footed and providing the support needed to bounce back for another crack at training.
• Price: The recovery shoe category is somewhat new, so metrics on pricing can be all over the place as more silhouettes get added to the mix. On average, though, we found that you can expect to pay roughly $90 for a high-quality pair of recovery shoes. We did our best to include picks that hover around that cost with some more specialized profiles — like shoes ideal for recovery runs — costing more.

Best Recovery Shoes Overall: Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes

Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes

Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes

The Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes feature a molded design that’s easy to clean and comfortable to cruise around in. The sugarcane-based EVA foam provides a soft yet responsive ride, and raised nodes along the footbed can help massage the bottom of your feet for improved circulation post-workout.

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The Revive Active Recovery Shoes from Kane Footwear, in our opinion, are the best examples of recovery sneakers on the market today. The molded clog style is easy to get on and off, making post-workout efforts minimal, and the raised nodes along the footbed are designed to help improve circulation. Plus, the large perforations along the upper can add some much-appreciated breathability as you cool down after your gym sessions.

I’ve had my Kanes for months now and regularly turn to them for post-workout wear. Getting into the molded sugarcane foam profile is a breeze, which can be great for convenience’s sake after training. I also rated the comfort at 5 out of 5, as the dual-density midsole construction gives you a nice sense of plush cushioning while the raised nodes work to simulate a foot massage for boosted circulation.

[Related: Post-Workout Recovery Tips From Celebrity Fitness Trainer Don Saladino]

An easy comparison to the Kane Revive would be your common pair of Crocs. However, I prefer these molded shoes over the alternative as I feel there’s more structure underfoot. I feel the Kane Revives give you a little more arch support, which can help keep your strides in a natural plane. However, I still feel the overall looks may be polarizing for some (despite the abundance of colorways), so I rated the style at a conservative 3.75 out of 5.

The breathable perforations can be great for keeping your feet cool after training, but I do want to point out that these shoes can begin to squeak during wear as air dissipates through the holes. I’ve noticed this mostly when my steps were heavy after a grueling workout — gravity sort of takes over and pushes the air out from underfoot for a whistling effect.

Finally, I had no issues with the fit and rated these Kanes at 4 out of 5 for the category. The brand does recommend sizing down, though, if you’re in-between sizes, so be sure to follow these instructions. Additionally, I’d recommend wearing socks for your first few wears — the more rigid collar around the opening can feel abrasive, potentially leading to blisters.

[Related: Best Running Socks]

Best Budget Recovery Shoes: Adidas Adissage Slides

Adidas Adissage Slides

Adidas Adissage Slides

Classics in their own right, the Adidas Adissage Slides can be an effective solution for budget-friendly recovery footwear. Getting into the slides themselves takes little effort, and the iconic raised nodes across the footbed give each step a massaging sensation for added comfort.

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A pair of recovery shoes doesn’t need to be a glamorized silhouette with an unreasonable price tag, despite the uniqueness of the footwear category. For example, the Adidas Adissage Slides can be a perfect solution for post-workout wear at the low price of $32. For reference, that’s roughly a third of the average cost of other “recovery” footwear.

I’ve owned multiple pairs of these recovery slides over the years — from my times in the college dorms to tournament weekends on the baseball field and beyond — and only recently recognized them as high-quality recovery footwear. 

The nubbed footbed can provide a massaging effect to your heel and forefoot during steps, which can help promote circulation to your tired feet and pair nicely with your routine of best post-workout supplements. Add in the fact that you can get three pairs of these recovery slides for the price of one standalone recovery sneaker, and I had to rate the value at 4.5 out of 5.

I also admire these Adidas slides for their foundational style notes. The three stripes across the midfoot hook-and-loop band are iconic, and I like how the open-toe design practically screams summer fun (trust me, do not wear these slides through a snowy parking lot). For these reasons, I scored the overall style at 4 out of 5.

The Adissage slides are, however, your perfect example of throwaway flip-flops. The outsole traction is rather flat, which can lead to more slips and slides than wanted. I’ve also had my fair share of clogged footbeds, which will need to be cleaned out routinely over time. I also rated the stability at 3.5 out of 5, as there’s practically zero arch support across the flat midsole outside of a few taller nubs near the midfoot.

That said, these can be a great introduction for athletes entertaining the notion of recovery footwear. While the flip-flop style isn’t for every taste, the sound of a good deal is.

[Related: Should Athletes Wear Flip Flops?]

Most Versatile Recovery Shoes: Under Armour UA SlipSpeed

Under Armour UA SlipSpeed

Under Armour UA SlipSpeed

​​The UA SlipSpeeds from Under Armour offer a unique approach to gym-focused footwear. A BOA Fit lacing system helps you conveniently dial into that proper fit without any knots or excessive lacing, while a collapsible heel gives you the power to wear these either as a traditional sneaker or post-workout slip-on clog.

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For those looking for a recovery shoe that can be worn outside of post-workout environments, we recommend the UA SlipSpeeds from Under Armour. With a heightened sense of style along with a comfortable UA FLOW midsole for helpful cushioning and responsiveness, we wouldn’t blame you if these recovery slip-ons quickly turned into a regular pick for your everyday wardrobe.

I’ve had these UA SlipSpeeds in my footwear rotation for a while now and do appreciate the fit and comfort at play across the silhouette. While Under Armour does market these SlipSpeeds as a “training shoe” I feel they’re better suited for recovery and less intense activities like walking. There’s not enough lateral support to promote a locked-in feel necessary for training like you’d find in some of the best stability running shoes, and the synthetic heel can leave room for slippage when worn as a traditional sneaker. As such, I rated the stability at 3.75 out of 5.

Still, however, I rated the versatility at 4.5 out of 5 given the wearability options presented through the collapsible heel. You can wear these slip-on shoes as either a traditional sneaker or a slip-on clog — a feature not often shared amongst the competition (unless you have a disdain for a proper heel counter). I’ll admit, too, that sliding into these sneakers and collapsing the heel is a pleasant treat after a long, grueling leg day or HIIT session.

In terms of lockdown, I rated the SlipSpeeds at 4 out of 5 thanks to the BOA Fit lacing system. Rather than your traditional shoe laces, this sneaker is adjusted through a turnstile toggle that tightens or loosens thin cords across the midfoot. You can really dial in (pun intended) the fit of this sneaker. I also like how the settings remain across wears — no need to readjust every time you take off and put on the shoes.

The UA SlipSpeeds are available in 18 different colorways, so there’s no shortage of options to choose from. However, I will say that the synthetic leather upper can run hot at times — it may be best to save these for after your cool-down exercises.

Best Recovery Shoes for Around the House: Teva ReEMBER

Teva ReEMBER

Teva ReEMBER

The slipper-style ReEMBERS from Teva can be a comfortable solution for in-house kicks. The plush ripstop upper resembles a quilted comforter for a nice sense of coziness over the top of your foot, while the grippy outsole can be ideal when trying to maintain balance and traction over differing flooring options like carpet, hardwood, turf, and more.

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Sometimes, the key to surviving your rest days at home is just a comfortable pair of kicks. The Teva ReEMBERs feature a plush ripstop upper, synthetic heel for easy entry and exit, and a grippy rubber outsole that can keep you moving across carpet, hardwood, or anywhere else outside of the gym. 

These ReEMBERs have practically become a piece of my workday uniform thanks to their unparalleled comfort. While the ripstop upper can lead to some breathability issues on hotter days, I still feel a great sense of plushness overfoot that keeps me cozy in-between workouts.

I rated the comfort at 4.5 out of 5, too, given the closed-toe design that still gives me enough room to wiggle across the toe box. After all, do you really need to have a secure, snug fit if your steps are only taking you from your home office to the kitchen and back? You can even wear the ReEMBERs without socks thanks to a convenient anti-odor treatment across the profile.

In terms of traction, I also appreciate the tread pattern across these slip-on sneakers/slippers, which I scored at 4 out of 5. The pattern is grippy enough to combat thick carpet yet still retains some security on sleek hardwood. I’ve also worn these Tevas on short jaunts outside and haven’t noticed any compromised footing.

I do reserve these mostly for in-home wear, though, given the lack of arch support across the midsole. There is some cushioning at the midfoot, but the last is predominantly flat — comfortable enough for short treks around the house, but I wouldn’t want this sensation all day.

The style of these slip-ons also lends itself to interior wear. There are only 5 colorways available, which limits how you can style these kicks that look as if a Toms slipper met up with a quilted comforter. While I enjoy the look, they may not blend as seamlessly with your normal attire as other picks in the “recovery shoe” category. As such, I rated the style at a conservative 3.75 out of 5.

Best Slip-On Recovery Shoes: HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2

HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2

HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2

If you want a spark of convenience in your recovery shoes, the slip-in design of the HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2 can be a great treat post-run or post-workout. The front pull tab makes getting into these sneakers as simple and efficient as possible, while the memory foam heel cradles your Achilles nicely while still providing enough structure for supported striding.

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When you’re trying to come down post-run or post-training (or simply trying to lower your resting heart rate), odds are that you’re less inclined to lace up a fresh pair of sneakers. Slip-on recovery shoes can be a real treat in these instances, with the HOKA Ora Recovery Shoe 2s, in our opinion, being the best of the bunch. This profile features a flexible mesh upper, contoured memory foam heel, and convenient pull tab where the tongue would sit for a seamless transition between your cross-training shoes and post-training attire.

I’ve worn these Ora Recovery Shoe 2s in the past and do enjoy how easy it is to slide into these kicks after a workout. There’s little effort needed, and you’re greeted with a cozy upper that’s plenty breathable along with a compression-molded EVA foam midsole that’s plush enough to make you feel like you’re walking on clouds. I rated the ease of entry a perfect 5 out of 5.

The memory foam heel also pairs nicely to the sensations on foot, creating a comfortable collar that doesn’t rub excessively yet still has enough structure to prevent any unwanted slippage during strides. I wouldn’t necessarily trust these sneakers for dedicated jogging circuits, but for my trek from the gym doors to my car, they do fine enough for a 4 out of 5 rating.

Unlike other HOKA silhouettes, the Ora Recovery 2s feature a stamped outsole, meaning there isn’t any rubber present across the bottom of the sneaker. I’ve found that the rocker geometry of the midsole does promote extended wear, so I wouldn’t be surprised to find athletes wearing out the traction over time. For these reasons, I rated the durability at 4 out of 5.

Finally, the style of these shoes can be subjective, but I feel they lack a certain pizazz that I’ve grown accustomed to with HOKA running shoes, especially given the fact that there are just four (rather bland) colorways to choose from. Oh, well — if you’re only wearing these kicks post-workout, I guess there’s no true need for some flash and style.

Editor’s Note: HOKA also offers an Ora Recovery Slide (which we’ve also tested) if you prefer a recovery flip-flop over a traditional sneaker.

Best Shoes for Recovery Runs: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

As an upgraded silhouette to the Gel-Cumulus lineup, the Gel-Nimbus 26 from Asics delivers a hefty helping of FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole foam that can feel great underfoot for long-distance workouts. Additionally, the PureGEL technology that’s become synonymous with the brand is still retained in the heel, adding a beneficial sense of shock absorption to make foot strikes all the more welcoming.

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If you’re more from the camp of active recovery, a leisurely run with plenty of shock absorption and underfoot comfort can be prime for your non-training scenarios. The Gel-Nimbus 26s from Asics are a go-to in our rotations for extended mileage thanks to the plush FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam across the midsole that delivers a cozy ride with enough bounce to make every transition as effortless as the last.

Admittedly, my mileage is still low with these best running shoes, although the Gel-Nimbus 25s — the predecessor to this current iteration — were a mainstay in my training protocol until the latest silhouette hit the streets. Judging from the spec sheets and limited trial runs I’ve had, I can say that they’re virtually the same sneaker with a few minor upgrades.

The one area where I feel Asics upgraded for the better is within the outsole. The new HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole does promote better grip on asphalt and pavement — an issue I previously had with older Gel-Nimbus iterations, particularly after a harsh rainstorm. 

I rated the outsole at 4 out of 5, because I do feel like I have more confidence underfoot, which is always a plus when you’re just trying to get out and stay active without really pushing your limits. Additionally, the outsole is one of the factors that led us to rank the Gel-Nimbus 26s as one of our favorite shoes for treadmill running.

However, I do want to note that the upgraded outsole did add some weight to the profile. Some athletes may prefer a lighter sneaker when taking it easy is the name of the game from start to finish.

I also rated the cushioning at a 5 out of 5. The midsole foam provides a good sense of comfort without feeling too plush that it pancakes outward with each landing. Also, I like how Asics has kept the PureGEL technology in the heel design, which I’ve found makes for a more comfortable heel strike that isn’t too jarring.

Lastly, the engineered knit upper cloaks your foot comfortably, but it may be best to pay attention to your weather forecasts. I’ve found that this textile can run hot at times, leading to some excessive perspiration.

Best Recovery Sandal: OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandal

OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandal

OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandal

OOFOS, as a brand, has been a pioneer in the “recovery shoe” category, with the OOahh Slide Sandal being one of its flagship silhouettes. Unlike other flip-flops, this profile features a contoured footbed that can provide ample arch support for tired feet post-training, and the open-toed design helps ensure that breathability is never in question during your cooldown sessions.

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If you’re an athlete that prefers to slip into a pair of slides post-training, the OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandals can be a great addition to your after-workout get-up. Not only can the open-toed design promote better breathability for cooling off after hitting your fitness goals, but the anatomical midfoot design can deliver a unique sense of arch support not commonly found in flip-flops.

Having worn these OOFOS slides in the past, I can attest to their heightened support underfoot. While I don’t suffer from flat arches, I still felt like these recovery shoes cradled my foot well enough for a comfortable stride post training. 

Additionally, I rated the support at 4 out of 5, as I felt balanced enough during my steps that there were no issues in terms of rolling over the sidewalls — let’s face it, your post-workout steps aren’t the most form-correct strides you’ll ever take.

The fit of the OOFOS OOahh Slides does feel snug, which was a great perk for my narrower feet. However, I scored the overall fit at 4 out of 5 given the lack of wide sizing. Athletes with larger feet may feel too constricted in these flip-flops — a burden that shouldn’t be present in footwear designed to bolster your recovery sessions.

Keeping these flip-flops clean in-between wears can also be a breeze thanks to the molded OOfoam makeup of the entire silhouette. According to the brand, this material is machine washable, so you can easily throw these kicks into a cycle and air dry them for a fresh look. While I’ve yet to go through such a cleaning procedure, I do like how OOFOS keeps footwear maintenance simplified. As such, I rated the design at 4.5 out of 5.

Of course, these slides aren’t compatible with add-on insoles, nor are they a recommended footwear option for more active endeavors like running or HIIT training. However, if you’re just looking for a simple pair of recovery slides, the OOFAS OOahhs should definitely be on your shortlist.

Best Recovery Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal

Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal

Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal

With a more rigid midsole design that cradles your foot through every transition, the Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandals can be a solid addition to your gym bag if you’re dealing with noticeable foot pain post-training. Additionally, the midfoot strap features a hook-and-loop patch, giving you room to tighten or loosen your fit for that just-right feeling.

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For those working out or running everyday yet dealing with pesky conditions like plantar fasciitis, every step (whether in training or not) can be a chore in itself. To help ease the strain across your midfoot, it can be ideal to look for shoes with ample arch support to support your transitions from heel strike to toe-off such as Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandal.

We like this recovery-minded silhouette for those dealing with plantar fasciitis thanks to the more pronounced arch support across the footbed, which can give each stride a better sense of rigidity and stabilization that’s key when trying to nurse through this debilitating injury. We rated the overall support at 4.5 out of 5, too, given the wider base that can help ensure balance as you walk through your post-workout activities.

[Related: How Many Miles Should I Run a Day? Insights From a CPT]

In addition to the arch support, I also appreciate the hook-and-loop design across the midfoot, which I rated at 4 out of 5 for adjustability. This can be great for finding that ideal lockdown, although some customers have noted that the Velcro used across this area lacks a certain grippiness. “The single strap would not hold the shoe in place,” noted one displeased individual.

Let’s talk style: While the brand does offer these slides in an array of colorways, the overall look can be somewhat depressing, especially when other recovery shoes are offered in more vibrant hues and eye-catching patterns. I wouldn’t personally wear these outside of post-training situations or around the house. As such, I scored the style at 3.5 out of 5.

Of course, the extra support underfoot may not be necessary for every athlete out there. In fact, those not dealing with plantar fasciitis may actually find the added structure to be somewhat uncomfortable. However, if we’re looking for a supportive shoe that can help ensure a more comfortable experience, we still recommend the Vionic Rejuvenates — they’re even backed by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Most Comfortable Recovery Shoes: Topo Athletic Revive 

Topo Athletic Revive

Topo Athletic Revive

Resembling more of a soft and furry clog than a recovery shoe, the Topo Athletic Revives are constructed with recycled polyester fleece across the upper for a warm, inviting sensation in every step. The Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole gives this clog some bite, too, with a rugged tread pattern that will have you questioning how far you’re willing to travel in these comfy kicks.

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Of course, comfort is the name of the game in recovery shoes. For a rejuvenating sense of coziness, we recommend the Revive Clog from Topo Athletic. This slip-on clog uses recycled polyester fleece for its upper design, essentially creating a cloak across your feet that’s akin to your favorite blanket. Don’t let the soft touch fool you, though — these clogs also house an impressive Vibram outsole that’s more than ready to tackle terrain beyond your living room.

Our tester, an avid climbing athlete, rated the traction of these slippers at 5 out of 5, saying, “The Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole makes these Revives a perfect fit for a variety of activities. My only qualm with wearing them outside more is that I don’t want to get the fleece upper dirty.”

While the comfort is definitely there across this recovery clog — bolstered by an Ortholite 3D Wave Sense footbed that gives each step a massaging effect across your feet that can be more appealing than, say, a session with one of the best foam rollers — we are hesitant to take these Topo Athletic kicks for further treks. 

Yes, we rated the comfort at 5 out of 5, but the upkeep of the fleece practically squashes the urge to wear these excessively. We scored the construction at 4 out of 5 as keeping the upper clean can be a challenge in itself, especially if you opt for the all-white colorway.

I’d also point out that while the clog style can be convenient when transitioning from your training program to a more relaxed recovery state, it may not be the best for active recovery days. There is no ankle support to help add stability to each stride, so it’s not the most secure footwear pick for more active endeavors. You could use these as walking shoes, but I’d keep the distances very short — about the length of your block or driveway.

Lastly, our tester had no issues with a cramped footbed or narrow midfoot. However, they do recommend paying close attention to the size guide. “I’d suggest opting for half a size bigger than your day-to-day sneakers for a comfortable, roomy interior,” they stated.

Benefits of Recovery Shoes

BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, notes that having a dedicated pair of shoes for each fitness discipline is a great way to ensure your feet are supported properly throughout your training journey, with recovery endeavors being no exception. From increasing comfort post-workout for a proper cooldown to serving as a mental cue that it’s time to rest, below are some of the benefits that can come from adding recovery shoes to your footwear rotation.

• Increased Post-Workout Comfort: Your feet can’t really begin to recover from a workout if you’re still uncomfortable in your kicks. Recovery shoes can help kickstart the recovery process by giving your feet a break from the more rigid footbeds of training shoes via well-cushioned, bouncy designs that cradle and coddle your heel, arches, and forefoot through your strides after training.
• Improved Circulation: Some recovery shoes feature raised nodes or massaging textures across the footbed, which can help promote better circulation across your footprint. Studies report that improved blood flow can be a catalyst for proper recovery, so these features can be excellent for giving your rest between sessions an extra boost. (1)
• Mental Cue to Slow Down: Slipping into your recovery shoes can also be a good indicator to your body that it’s time to rest and recuperate. Having this cue within your regimen can help you grow the routine of cooling down post-workout rather than staying active or filling those segments of your day with other taxing endeavors.

How Much Do Recovery Shoes Cost?

Given the newness of the “recovery shoe” category, the true definition is still somewhat defined, meaning finding price points can be a bit of a pain. From our experience and expertise, though, we’ve found that you can find a high-quality pair of recovery shoes for roughly $90 with obvious fluctuations both below and above this median cost. Read below to compare the prices of recovery shoes featured in this round-up.

What to Consider Before Buying Recovery Shoes

As with any piece of running gear or training apparel, you’ll need to think through a few factors before reaping the comfortable perks of recovery shoes. Below are a few components we recommend considering before finalizing your cart as you take a further step into dedicated recovery.

Midsole Cushioning

​​When looking to start your muscle recovery from the ground up, you’ll want to ensure that your recovery shoes are constructed with a comfy midsole that’s plush enough for your post-training strides. Be sure to look at the midsole design to determine whether the integrated features are designed for cushioning or responsiveness. We recommend opting for a silhouette featuring a plush footbed that still retains some structure during landings.

Additionally, some recovery shoes will feature a thinner midsole composition, which you’ll mostly see in slipper-style shoes or flip-flops. While these can still be worthwhile profiles for your recovery needs, they may be better reserved for wear around the house where you don’t need to be on your feet as much.

Arch Support

In addition to the general comfort of your recovery shoes, it can also be wise to opt for a profile that showcases some sense of arch support. As you grow tired after your workout, your feet can have a tendency to land flat, which can lead to discomfort. Having a stable footbed that features enough rigidity in key areas can help you maintain a proper stepping pattern even after your dedication to proper form has left your train of thought.

Some recovery shoes will account for this arch support through contoured footbeds that give you constant contact with the shoe itself, while others may employ differing foams at the midfoot for better support. There is no right or wrong answer, so look for a silhouette that seems appealing to your unique footprint.

[Related: Why Do My Shins Hurt When I Run?]

Ease of Entry

Odds are that after training and expending all your energy, you’ll want to keep your footwear as convenient as possible. Having a pair of recovery shoes that can be easily slid on or slipped into can help you transition quickly into that cool-down mindset while also eliminating the need to fuss with laces that, let’s face it, can be a pain at any time of day. 

There are plenty of recovery-minded profiles featuring a slip-on design, including closed-toed and open-toed profiles, so think through your personal preferences and choose a pair that matches your style best.

Fit

Like any pair of shoes in your rotation, you’ll want your recovery shoes to fit properly without excessive room or constricting hot spots. When looking for your ideal fit, be sure to pay close attention to the brand’s proprietary size guide, as this can help you determine whether you’ll need to size up or down. As always, make sure to opt for the sizing that suits your personal measurements best.

Price

Given the newness of the recovery shoe category, it can be tough to determine what constitutes a fair deal in terms of pricing. On average, though, we’ve found that most high-quality recovery shoes will cost roughly $90, with natural fluctuations from brand to brand. As such, the best recovery shoe for your needs is the one that comfortably fits within your budget. Take a look at your finances and try to find a profile that matches what you can afford.

Best Recovery Shoes FAQs

References

1. Borne, R., Hausswirth, C., & Bieuzen, F. (2016). Relationship between blood flow and performance recovery: A randomized, placebo-controlled study. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 12(2), 152–160. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27139812/ 

The post The 9 Best Recovery Shoes of 2024, Worn and Tested by Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

While you may think that any running shoe is suitable for indoor treadmill runs, there are a few characteristics to be mindful of. After all, you’re running in a singular direction over a never-changing terrain, so you’ll want to ensure you aren’t overworking your muscles or clunking up your running gait with sneakers not meant for the job. To lend a hand in your search, we’ve sprinted in dozens of shoe profiles and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this guide to our favorite shoes for treadmill running.

The Best Shoes for Treadmill Running

• Best Treadmill Running Shoes Overall: Asics Gel-Cumulus 26
• Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Men: Nike Pegasus 41
• Best Budget Treadmill Running Shoes: Reebok FloatZig 1
• Most Versatile Treadmill Running Shoes: Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE
• Best Stability Treadmill Running Shoes: Nike InfinityRN 4
• Best Cushioned Treadmill Running Shoes: Hoka Clifton 9
• Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Flat Feet: Brooks Ghost Max 2
• Best Lightweight Treadmill Running Shoes: Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
• Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Long Distances: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
• Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Women: On Cloudsurfer
• Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Torin 7
• Most Breathable Treadmill Running Shoes: TYR Techknit RNR-1 Runner

How We Tested and Chose the Best Shoes for Treadmill Running

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best shoes for treadmill running, we got hands-on with 70 different shoe profiles from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

• Stability: Treadmills offer a consistent terrain for running enthusiasts, so achieving a repetitive foot strike is more achievable on the best cardio machines. That said, we’ve included a handful of picks in this guide that showcase included technologies to help assist with any pronation issues in order to better appeal to a wider range of athletes.
• Midsole Cushioning: While treadmills already feature a sense of cushioning within the deck design — with some cushioned treadmills taking this component to otherworldly heights — you should still opt for shoes featuring some underfoot comfort in order to make your miles as enjoyable as possible. We examined each pick’s midsole cushioning thoroughly in order to outline just how much plush you can expect from the silhouettes.
• Breathability: As is the case in all training footwear, you should look for treadmill running shoes with a breathable, well-ventilated upper. The best running shoes featured in this guide feature breathable uppers to some degree, with some standing out more than others, as showcased in our reporting.
• Outsole: A revolving treadmill belt will present the same underfoot terrain with each step, so there’s no need to worry about uneven surfaces or obstacles like you’d experience in trail running or even on-road running. However, all of the shoes in this guide feature well-rounded outsoles of varying makeup that leave little question in regards to your footing.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes Overall: Asics Gel-Cumulus 26

Asics Gel-Cumulus 26

Asics Gel-Cumulus 26

With a comfortable midsole that transitions easily between heel strikes and toe-offs, the Gel-Cumulus 26 sits as yet another great installment in this foundational Asics lineup. Additionally, the engineered mesh upper provides a solid lockdown and fit, although it can have a tendency to run hot in certain conditions.

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The Gel-Cumulus 26s from Asics are a great example of, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Serving as the 26th version in the profile’s long history, this well-performing shoe can be a great companion to the best treadmills for running thanks to its more conservative stack height and flexible yet supportive FF BLAST PLUS midsole cushioning. Plus, a breathable engineered mesh upper can be excellent for tallying indoor miles by keeping your feet free of unwanted perspiration while still getting that locked-in sensation.

I’ve long been a fan of the Gel-Cumulus lineup and appreciate the consistency showcased in these latest renditions. I found the sneaker to run true to size, and the comfortable upper practically disappears across the top of your foot. 

However, I rated the Gel-Cumulus 26 at 5 out of 5 for sizing given the fact that Asics also offers this profile in Wide and Extra Wide dimensions. This can be a blessing for wider-footed athletes that need the extra room, yet don’t want to fuss with ordering larger sneakers than they truly need.

From a comfort perspective, the Gel-Cumulus 26s earned a 4.5 out of 5 in testing. I found the midsole to be plenty cushioned for my treadmill needs, and the PureGEL heel support provided a good sense of shock absorption during heel strikes.

I also appreciated that Asics was able to deliver this underfoot feel without maximizing the stack height. Some max-cushioned sneakers can feel like you’re running in platform shoes, which can lead to imbalances in your steps. I recommend saving these sky-high kicks for on-road conditions — it can be easier (and safer) to correct steps when the terrain isn’t moving beneath you.

As comfortable as the Gel-Cumulus 26s were in trials, I don’t think I’d wear them as daily trainers. The FF BLAST PLUS midsole foam took a little longer to rebound to its original softness, which I noticed most during extended runs in these sneakers, resulting in my 4 out of 5 rating for responsiveness. If your treadmill sessions are parceled out across your week, though, that should be enough time for the shoes to recover.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Men: Nike Pegasus 41

Nike Pegasus 41

Nike Pegasus 41

The Nike Pegasus 41 is the silhouette’s biggest update in a while, with new ReactX foam across the midsole and redesigned engineered mesh upper. The shoe feels lighter on-foot than its listed 10.4-ounce weight, too, which meshes well with the two Zoom Air Units that give each step a sense of bounce and energy return.

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Let’s get this out of the way — the best treadmill running shoes for men aren’t different than the best treadmill running shoes for women (outside of sizing, of course). That said, we feel the new Pegasus 41s from Nike are a prime fit for male athletes given the updated ReactX foam, stylish colorways, and revamped look that gives this foundational sneaker a new lease on life.

I’ve run in plenty of Pegasus iterations over the years and this latest rendition really upgrades the overall look of the shoe. The engineered mesh upper looks clean, and Nike is always happy to provide athletes with a slew of colorways to fit their personality. I’d rate the style at 4 out of 5 and could easily see this silhouette as a go-to for regular wear and those running everyday. 

Looking at the midsole, Nike has beefed up the Pegasus 41 by adding the brand’s ReactX foam to the build. This softer foam feels light on the foot with a plusher feel than the previous React foam. Plus, there are Zoom Air Units at the forefoot and heel to give each stride an extra zip of bounce and responsiveness. I personally appreciate this tech since the forefoot lacks a certain foam thickness that could prove to be irritating at longer mileage. As such, I’d rate the midsole design at 4 out of 5 since I’ve yet to log extended runs in these Nike kicks.

While the Pegasus 41s feature Nike’s signature waffle pattern outsole, I do feel there’s room for improvement. For one, the rubber has a waxy feel to it that could lead to errant slips and slides. This could be a non-issue if you keep the kicks solely for treadmill running, but any outdoor runs, particularly in inclement weather, may be less than ideal. I’d score the outsole at 3.75 out of 5 and caution athletes to keep things slow (or indoors) until you break in your running shoes and get accustomed to their underfoot feel.

Best Budget Treadmill Running Shoes: Reebok FloatZig 1

Reebok FloatZig 1

Reebok FloatZig 1

The FloatZig 1s from Reebok bring a unique aesthetic to your workouts thanks to the zig-zag design of the Floatride Energy foam midsole. A comfortable engineered mesh upper cloaks your foot cozily, too, giving you an excellent fit for all your mileage and wear.

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Running shoes can get expensive, no doubt. Thankfully, there are plenty of high-quality, low-priced options these days with the FloatZig 1s from Reebok leading the charge.

While Reebok, as a brand, may be linked more to the best cross-training shoes, it’s been quietly pumping out budget-friendly running shoes that efficiently match up to other stalwarts in the category. The FloatZig 1s carry that torch with a price tag of $130 — a significant drop from the average $150 cost of other high-quality treadmill running shoes.

Plus, it’s hard to deny the looks and aesthetics at play with the FloatZig 1s, which I rated at 5 out of 5. That zig zag midsole design is very unique in comparison to your standard foam blocks. If they weren’t so impressive in training (we’ll get to that soon enough) I could easily see myself wearing these in more social settings. A good pair of shoes is always a conversation starter, right?

During runs, I’ve found that the zigging and zagging Floatride Energy foam shows up when it counts for a fun, responsive ride during training. You get a nice sense of pop at toe-offs, and I’m happy to keep these in my rotation for general mileage or even tempo runs. That said, I rate the midsole at 3.5 out of 5 given the use of Floatride Energy foam. While great out of the box, I’ve found that this foam compound can begin to lose its responsiveness sooner than others leading to a clunky underfoot feel with no sense of energy return. At $130, though, replacing the shoes shouldn’t be too harsh of a reality.

Finally, the fit of this shoe is true to size which I accredit to the comfortable engineered mesh upper. I scored the sizing at 4 out of 5 since the mesh cozily cloaks your foot in all the right places with no signs of tightness or unnecessary rubbing. Seriously, give these Reeboks a run and you’ll be questioning how a budget-friendly shoe can be so impressive.

Most Versatile Treadmill Running Shoes: Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

For athletes looking for a more cardio-minded cross-training sneaker, these Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs can do the trick. These stylish kicks feature an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop that can be more suitable for running on a treadmill, and the bootie-style construction helps keep your entire foot locked onto the midsole without any slop or extra room internally.

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Look, we all can’t have the right shoes for each and every one of our favorite activities, so having sneakers that can perform well in multiple disciplines can be a true benefit to your fitness wardrobe (and budget). The UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs can be an excellent option for multifaceted workouts thanks to a UA HOVR midsole foam that’s comfortable enough for logging miles yet stable enough for more weight-based workouts.

Having trained in these Under Armour sneakers before, I do feel like they’re a great solution for avid cross-training enthusiasts. I appreciate the structure underfoot for general strength-training needs, but I’ve always felt that the heel-to-toe drop, level of underfoot cushioning, and outsole traction lent itself more to treadmill running. Still, I’ve been able to get by when intermixing my training. So, in looking at these shoes as a run-first, training-second silhouette, I rated the versatility at 4.5 out of 5.

These UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs are also part of Under Armour’s connected lineup of footwear, meaning they’re Bluetooth compatible for more refined data tracking. This can be an excellent perk for treadmill runners that log their workouts via MapMyRun — one of the best running apps we’ve tested — and eliminates the need to pair your training with an additional heart rate monitor. 

Another key perk to these UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs is the style and aesthetics. I scored the shoes at 4 out of 5 for the category because it’s a clean profile that doesn’t scream “running shoe.” Plus, the 11 available colorways can allow more athletes to find their ideal hue to match their personality.

As versatile as this profile is, though, I do recommend paying close attention to sizing. I rated the fit at 3.75 out of 5 since the UA IntelliKnit upper is somewhat rigid, which can make getting into and out of these kicks a true challenge at times. 

Additionally, the tapered toe box can create some friction across your toes, leading to potential hot spots and blisters. Yes, the lockdown is great, but is that worth the potential pain and friction as you wait for the shoes to break in?

[Related: What Are Cross-Training Shoes?]

Best Stability Treadmill Running Shoes: Nike InfinityRN 4

Nike InfinityRN 4

Nike InfinityRN 4

The Nike InfinityRN 4s feature ReactX foam across the midsole, which can be ideal for athletes wanting some extra pop to go along with their arch-supporting underfoot sensations. The waffle-patterned outsole can also provide ample traction, perfect for carving through your routes and training sessions with ease.

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The repetitive foot plane that accompanies treadmill running can lead to overworked leg muscles given the lack of directional changes, so having some extra support underfoot is a near must-have for your footwear. With a stabilizing ReactX foam midsole and snug Flywire knit upper, we feel the Nike InfinityRN 4s are prime for those needing some stability in their shoe game.

I’ve run in multiple iterations of this Nike footwear lineup, and feel the InfinityRN 4s are some of the most approachable profiles among the best stability running shoes. I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5 given that there is a present arch support to help defend against overpronation, but it isn’t as aggressive or rigid as pasty Infinity Run silhouettes. 

Additionally, I like how wide the base of this sneaker is, which can go a long way in maintaining your balance over a revolving treadmill belt.

The Flyknit upper also helps ensure a locked-in aesthetic with a snug, secure fit that hugs your foot and limits any side-to-side movement. However, this snugness can easily stray into constriction if you aren’t careful. We (and Nike) recommend sizing up one half size in order to give your feet an optimal sense of comfort.

In addition to the midsole and upper technologies, the InfinityRN 4s come equipped with a waffle-patterned outsole that can provide excellent traction whether pacing along atop a treadmill or running in the rain. Plus, I’ve yet to see any sense of wear across the design, indicating a well-made profile. As such, I rated the durability at 4.5 out of 5.

However, while the InfinityRN 4s are our top pick for stability treadmill running shoes, I would hesitate to call them anything but springy. The dense ReactX foam, thicker Flyknit upper, and water-resistant membrane do add some heft to this sneaker to the tune of 12.5 ounces.

While they don’t showcase all of this weight when worn, they can definitely be clunkier than lighter shoes in the category, resulting in a compromised form at extended mileage. For daily needs and short jogs, I think you can overlook the weight, but I would recommend a lighter pair of kicks for those more interested in long-distance running or sprints.

Best Cushioned Treadmill Running Shoes: Hoka Clifton 9

Hoka Clifton 9

Hoka Clifton 9

HOKA, as a brand, is known for well-cushioned running shoes. The Clifton 9 serves as a great training silhouette thanks to its compression-molded EVA foam midsole, as well as the early-stage meta-rocker geometry that seamlessly rolls your foot forward for easier transitions.

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Naturally, a treadmill will likely be more cushioned than the hard pavement or packed trails you’d experience in outdoor running workouts — especially if you’re running on one of the best cushioned treadmills. However, you should have some underfoot comfort to help alleviate the strain of repetitively landing in the same spot with your foot strikes. Thanks to their compression-molded EVA foam midsole and early-stage meta-rocker geometry, the HOKA (formerly known as HOKA ONE ONE) Clifton 9s are our go-to for cushioned treadmill running shoes.

Having logged multiple miles in my pair of Clifton 9s, I can attest to the cushioning experience provided in this footwear option. The EVA foam has some give for less-aggressive landings, but it doesn’t pancake out toward the sidewalls with each step. I rated the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5, dropping it slightly as I feel there are other, more supple silhouettes in the category. 

Additionally, I like how HOKA included the brand’s trusty early-stage meta-rocker geometry to the build, which can create a smooth transition between heel strikes and toe-offs. Plus, the Durabrasion rubber outsole has shown to provide a good sense of traction and grip across treadmill belts with little wear and tear. As such, I scored the Clifton 9s at a 4 out of 5 for durability. You can easily keep these as your go-to running or walking shoes for plenty of sessions ahead without hesitation.

In terms of fit, I appreciated the length at which HOKA went to make this Clifton 9 as comfortable as possible. The padded heel counter and collar can make slipping into these kicks before a workout a truly enjoyable experience. 

However, I feel that the profile could have saved some engineering by creating a more narrow silhouette. I’ve experienced some heel slip in these shoes, and the toe box almost has too much room for my average foot. Wide-footed athletes will likely enjoy this profile, but smaller-footed individuals may need to adjust.

As a final note, I do recommend employing a lace lock system to alleviate any heel fitment issues. This process involves using the extra eyelet at the top of your shoe, creating a loop, and cinching down for better lockdown. For more information on this lacing method, there are plenty of resources online or at your local running store.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Flat Feet: Brooks Ghost Max 2

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Brooks Ghost Max 2

The Brooks Ghost Max 2 brings DNA LOFT v3 foam to the silhouette for a plush, stable ride that’s comfortable from step to step. The plush mesh upper also gives this sneaker an excellent feel across the top of your foot while still giving you room to splay naturally during strides.

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Need a sneaker that can support your flat arches? The Brooks Ghost Max 2s can be ideal for your treadmill workouts thanks to the large swath of DNA LOFT v3 foam across the midsole. I’ve worn previous Brooks iterations with this same tech and it’s easily one of my favorite midsole designs.

The DNA LOFT v3 foam earns the Ghost Max 2s a 4.5 out of 5 for the midsole. The plush comfort is very noticeable and there’s no sense of clunkiness during training. That said, I wouldn’t wear these treadmill running shoes for tempo days or when I’m pushing for faster times — the 10.8-ounce weight is just too difficult to turn over during sprints.

Moving up across the shoe, Brooks employs a plush mesh textile for the upper. I scored the Ghost Max 2s at 4 out of 5 for the category as there’s the right amount of give and structure across this area. You feel locked into the sneaker, yet aren’t presented with any apparent hot spots or harsh tapers. There’s also room to splay so your strides feel natural from landing to toe-off.

While the neutral makeup of the Ghost Max 2s means you won’t find any motion control components, I still felt rather stable in this sneaker thanks to its broader base. The full rubber outsole also provided enough traction for maintaining run efficiency, leading to my 4 out of 5 rating for stability.

The one gripe I have with these kicks — and previous Ghost Max iterations — is the stretchy, spongy laces. You really need to cinch them down to achieve a proper knot. Even still, I’ve tied my sneakers tightly before a workout only to look down a few minutes later and find them undone. I’d rate the lacing at 3 out of 5 and recommend that you swap out the laces, if possible.

Best Lightweight Treadmill Running Shoes: Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4s have their eyes set on quick training sessions thanks to an energetic combination of PWRRUN PB midsole foam and an integrated nylon plate. Plus, the SPEEDROLL geometry of the shoe lends itself to quick, seamless transitions that can make all the difference when a new best time is just milliseconds away.

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As enjoyable as a light jog can be, running fast just has an aura that’s undeniable. While you may be more inclined to take your tempo runs outdoors versus on a treadmill, you can still push the RPMs up to breakneck speeds indoors (minus the wind blowing through your hair). For these quick bursts of high-octane training, we recommend the Endorphin Speed 4s from Saucony given their lightweight build of 8.2 ounces.

Speed shoes make up most of my rotation, and I’ve been pleased with the Endorphin Speed 4s with each logged session. The PWRRUN PB midsole foam provides a great sense of rebound and energy return, which I’ve come to enjoy through various Saucony offerings. Plus, I feel that the nylon plate is a great accessory, giving your toe-offs that extra snap and spring forward.

[Related: What the Heck Is a Tempo Run? How to Run Faster, Longer]

Plus, a nylon plate is less aggressive than carbon — a commonly-used plate design in lightweight shoes for tempo runs and races — making it a good fit for those turning to a treadmill for their runs. Overall, I rated the responsiveness at 4.5 out of 5.

Despite this energetic design, I don’t feel that the Endorphin Speed 4s compromise comfort for extra quickness. The redesigned mesh upper features more perforations for increased breathability, and the textile feels accommodating enough without being overly stretchy. 

Additionally, I like how the SPEEDROLL geometry works with the responsive midsole and plate for a smooth transition between your heel strike and toe-off.

However, I scored the comfort at 4 out of 5 for one key area. The lateral, or outer, sidewall of the toe box tapers in somewhat aggressively, giving your pinky toe less room within the shoe. While I had little issues with the fitment, I could see where this tapering could be too much for wider-footed athletes and could potentially lead to blisters or hot spots after extended wear.

Lastly, I will caution athletes to be prepared for long laces. The Endorphin Speed 4s feature lengthy, somewhat waxy laces across the top that could hang excessively over the side or front when tied normally. I highly recommend employing a lace lock setup with the extra eyelet, or brush up on your double-knotting skills.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Long Distances: Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

As an upgraded silhouette to the Gel-Cumulus lineup, the Gel-Nimbus 26 from Asics delivers a hefty helping of FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole foam that can feel great underfoot for long-distance workouts. Additionally, the PureGEL technology that’s become synonymous with the brand is still retained in the heel, adding a beneficial sense of shock absorption to make foot strikes all the more welcoming.

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If your goal is double-digit mileage during your treadmill session, it can help to have a running shoe with mounds of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable through the paces. Boasting a plush yet responsive FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole design and a soft knit upper, the Gel-Nimbus 26s from Asics can be a great fit for those longer runs.

I’ve yet to log miles with this specific Asics kick, but its predecessor — the Gel-Nimbus 25 — has been a mainstay in my running shoe rotation, especially when my program calls for extended mileage. I’m a big fan of the midsole foam, as it provides a soft underfoot with enough structure to avoid pancaking out, meaning the energy you put down in each stride is returned for better pick-up.

I also enjoy the brand’s signature PureGEL technology, which acts as a shock-absorbing agent in the heel. As a heel striker, this can be great for keeping things comfortable as the distance begins to stack up. In total, I rated the cushioning at 5 out of 5.

[Related: Can You Train for a Marathon On a Treadmill?]

The biggest upgrade these Gel-Nimbus 26s have over previous models lies in the outsole design. Asics employed its branded HYBRID ASICSGRIP rubber for this component, which helps add some improved grip and durability across the profile — two factors that were somewhat limited with the Nimbus 25s. 

I’d score this new tech at 4 out of 5, though, as the improved rubber does add some weight to the silhouette, meaning some athletes may feel that the shoes begin to clunk up and weigh down their progress during extended training sessions.

Finally, the knit upper employed across the Gel-Nimbus 26 is the same as my 25s, and I can confidently say that it’s one of the sleekest, most comfortable uppers I have in my rotation — akin to some of the best running socks out there. While the thicker textile can lead to some overheating — be sure to set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature before hopping on the treadmill — the on-foot feel is very soft and accommodating.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Women: On Cloudsurfer

On Cloudsurfer

On Cloudsurfer

Thanks to an upgraded geometry and Cloudtec Phase midsole design, the On Cloudsurfers roll seamlessly through transitions to make every step feel effortless. A lightweight 8.64-ounce profile also helps limit energy expenditure during pick-ups, which can help you maintain your battery for longer training sessions ahead.

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Again, there are no gender biases when it comes to treadmill running shoes outside of sizing. However, I recommend the On Cloudsurfers for female athletes due to the sneaker’s comfortable Helion foam midsole and Cloudtec Phase geometry that promotes smooth, effortless transitions during your workouts.

I’ve owned these Cloudsurfers for a while (along with other On running shoe silhouettes) and appreciate the level of comfort provided through the Helion foam. Additionally, this was the first shoe from the brand that ditched the Speedboard plate technology, which was intended to provide improved rebound and energy return but ultimately made every stride rigid and uncomfortable. In these On sneakers, you definitely feel as if you’re walking on clouds (kudos to the On marketing team).

As such, I give these On kicks a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort, as the underfoot tech is still a treat to walk in. Also, the midsole geometry helps eliminate any excessive stress or energy required for optimal transitions. The upper is also plenty cozy, and the shoes themselves are lightweight for easier pick-ups.

I also think these On Cloudsurfers can be excellent picks for female athletes given their lightweight design. The shoe weighs in at just 8.64 ounces meaning pickups and transitions can be a breeze rather than a struggle. This also makes them one of the best walking treadmill shoes and an excellent pairing to the best walking treadmills for those that prefer to take their mileage at less strenuous speeds.

In fact, the Helion foam is almost too soft for more intense activity. With the extra force you place across your sole during runs, you can easily compress the foam, leading to less response and performance. I rate the cushioning at 3.75 out of 5. That said, they can still be worthwhile training sneakers, provided you understand their limitations.

Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Torin 7

Altra Torin 7

Altra Torin 7

The Altra Torin 7s boast the brand’s signature FootShape profile, which creates a more ergonomic footbed that can be ideal for wider-footed athletes. Plus, despite the added stack height, this shoe still features a zero-drop design that can appeal to minimalists or those embedded in the barefoot movement.

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If you need a running shoe with a little more interior room to accommodate your wider feet, the Altra Torin 7s can be the perfect fit for your next treadmill workout. Alongside the roomier toe box, the Torin 7s are also available in wide sizes, which can be more comfortable for those that struggle to find a comfortable fitment in standard dimensions.

I also enjoyed how Altra upgraded the collar of this sneaker with a molded design that hugs your ankle for added lockdown. Despite this snug-fitting component, I didn’t feel any pressure across my Achilles during movement, which I attributed to the flaring present across the top of the collar itself near the heel. Combining this tech with the natural foot shape, I rate the fit at 4.5 out of 5.

[Related: Treadmill Safety Tips]

Traction is also a beacon of positivity with these Altra sneakers, which I score at 4 out of 5. The full rubber outsole provided a good sense of grip across my treadmill belt, and the EGO MAX foam midsole seemed to flex naturally through my transitions.

As far as stability is concerned, this may be a tougher sell for some athletes. For one, the zero-drop design can leave you feeling sore or overworked during your initial wears, especially if you’re used to a running shoe with some forward lean. 

Additionally, the EGO MAX midsole foam is supportive but lacks a certain sense of added stability — cushioned enough for a session or two, but by no means a standout when compared to other foam technologies on the market.

If you are in need of a more stable treadmill running shoe and want to take advantage of Altra’s wider FootShape fit, I’d recommend the Paradigm 7s. They’re virtually the same silhouette, although the Paradigms also include some medial guide rails to help resolve any pronation issues during strides.

Lastly, I also rated the stability at 3.75 out of 5 given how finicky the lacing system is. Achieving a proper lockdown can take a few tries as you cinch and loosen the laces across the eyelets. I’d recommend spending a few minutes before your workout and getting your Torin 7s just right before hopping on and logging your daily miles.

Most Breathable Treadmill Running Shoes: TYR Techknit RNR-1 Runner

TYR Techknit RNR-1 Runner

TYR Techknit RNR-1 Runner

Looking for a breath of fresh air in your running footwear? The RNR-1s from TYR utilize a Techknit 3D upper with plenty of perforations to help create a ventilated experience every time you hit the road or treadmill.

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Breathable shoes for treadmill running can help improve your overall comfort during training. Yes, you may have more control over your climate, but that doesn’t mean unwanted sweat and perspiration is out of the equation, leading to blisters and unwanted friction. Utilizing a branded Techknit 3D mesh upper, the RNR-1s from TYR are our pick for the best ventilated sneakers for cardio enthusiasts.

TYR is sort of new when it comes to footwear, but through the CXT-1 cross-trainer and L-1 Lifter — one of the best weightlifting shoes we’ve tested — it’s clear the brand is taking the shoe game seriously. On initial wears, I found the Techknit upper to be well-ventilated yet still structured enough for a supportive fit. I’d compare the softness to a nice Henley — thicker than your typical cotton t-shirt, but enjoyable nonetheless.

I also enjoyed the collar and heel counter, experiencing little interference or irritation during training. However, some of my colleagues that routinely wear their RNR-1s have noted some strain across the Achilles. 

Additionally, there is a pronounced level of padding around the midfoot, which can make for a more narrow interior that may not align with wider-footed athletes. As such, I rated the fit at 4 out of 5.

Naturally, the most breathable shoe for treadmill running should be, well, breathable. That’s never been an issue with my RNR-1s. The Techknit 3D upper features plenty of perforations for air flow, and I’ve yet to find conditions where sweat begins to pool in my sock. I rated the breathability at 4.5 out of 5.

Another perk to this running shoe is the Surge NRG+ foam embedded across the midsole. The foam is well-cushioned for a stable and comfortable ride, yet also has a surprising sense of pop across the design for added energy return. I scored the responsiveness at 4 out of 5, and think these can be well-suited sneakers for a variety of training needs, including both long-distance sessions and sprint workouts.

Benefits of Shoes for Treadmill Running

Having a dedicated pair of running shoes for your treadmill workouts may seem like being overequipped for cardio day, but there are some definite benefits that come with the practice. From having a fine-tuned underfoot setup for your training to preserving the longevity of your other sneakers, below are some of the positives.

• Activity-Specific Performance: As we’ve shared before, treadmills can be more forgiving than on-road running given that the belt is cushioned better than hard concrete or your local track. Having shoes that match or compliment these conditions can help you increase efficiency in your step and get a better sense of enjoyment out of the activity.
• Preserves Other Footwear: Having a pair of treadmill running shoes can also be great for your road running shoes, too. Keeping a pair of shoes dedicated to the road and one dedicated for the treadmill can help ensure you’re set up for success regardless of your training conditions.

How Much Do Treadmill Running Shoes Cost?

Treadmill running shoes can vary in price, especially when you’re looking at more specialized silhouettes for stability, tempo runs, or other running niches. On average, though, you can expect to pay roughly $150 for a top-notch pair of kicks. Read below to compare the price points of all the treadmill running shoes we’ve included in this guide.

How to Choose the Best Shoes for Treadmill Running

Like any footwear for training and fitness, there are some key components to consider when choosing a pair of treadmill running shoes. Below are some of the factors we recommend thinking through when deciding between kicks.

Midsole Cushioning

According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, “Running treadmills have cushioned decks, which can alleviate some of the joint pain associated with running outside. With the right running shoes and a cushioned running deck, you’re armed with the tools you need to keep up your consistent running routine sans joint pain.” As such, you don’t need to go overboard when looking at your shoe’s midsole cushioning.

Still, though, having some midsole comfort is recommended in treadmill running shoes, so be sure to look for a silhouette with an amount of foam best suited for your needs. You should also think about your training style. For example, those interested in tempo runs can benefit from a more rigid midsole with heightened energy return, as this design can help propel you forward better for quick transitions and faster pacing.

Stability

It can be easier to achieve a repetitive, consistent foot strike and proper running form on a treadmill given that there’s no change of direction. However, if you’re an athlete that deals with pronation issues, an excessive inward or outward roll of the ankle during landings, you could require some assistance from your footwear. Overpronation (excessive inward roll) has been linked to overloading injuries across the knees and stabilizer muscles. (1)

When considering shoes with stabilizing features like guide rails or more structured sidewalls, the easiest way to determine whether these components are necessary is by looking at your daily pair of sneakers. 

If the tread pattern is more worn down across the interior side of the shoe, you likely overpronate naturally. If the outsole has consistent wear all around, you exhibit more of a neutral gait. Outer tread wear hints at underpronation, or supination.

Stability shoes can be more helpful for overpronators, so it can be wise for these athletes to seek out treadmill running shoes with some form of motion control. Neutral and supinating individuals may be better suited with a neutral running shoe, as unnecessary support can potentially lead to excessive strain or overworked stabilizer muscles given the consistent foot strike.

Upper Materials

Your treadmill running shoe’s upper should be breathable to help alleviate excessive perspiration. Trapped sweat or hot interior conditions can potentially lead to unwanted friction or hot spots, resulting in blisters and some time on the mend. 

Look for uppers constructed from a breathable knit or mesh textile with some sense of structure. Flexible materials can be great for achieving a comfortable fit, but too much stretch can lead to foot movement during strides and inconsistencies across your running efficiency.

Also, given that treadmill running is predominantly conducted indoors, you won’t need to think through weatherproofing components like water-resistant liners or rip-resistant overlays like you’d find in the best trail-running shoes. In actuality, these add-ons can lessen the breathability of the sneaker, so a lighter mesh or knit design is favorable for treadmill enthusiasts.

Fit

It’s simple — your running shoes should fit your foot. You don’t want to have too much room where your feet move around during each stride, while a too constrictive fit can potentially lead to blisters. Read through the brand’s proprietary size guide and look for a running shoe that matches your dimensions best.

For wider-footed athletes, it can also be helpful to opt for a treadmill running shoe available in Wide or Extra Wide sizings. These specialized cuts extend the shoe profile in key areas for a more fine-tuned fit than you’d achieve by sizing up on the standard scale. We’ve made note of which shoes in this round-up offer such sizings for easier identification during your purchasing process.

Price

Prices can vary from brand to brand, but on average, you can expect to pay roughly $150 for high-quality treadmill running shoes. Naturally, there are silhouettes at cheaper and more expensive costs than this, similar to how you’d find the best budget treadmills against more commercial options. In the end, think about your finances and how much you’re willing to spend on a pair.

If your primary running environment is the treadmill, then you can potentially benefit from investing more in these kicks. If you’re only using the machine every now and again (or when weather forecasts aren’t aligning with your training schedule) it may be best to purchase a budget-friendly sneaker and invest more in your road running shoes.

Treadmill Running Shoes FAQs

References

1. Hintermann, B., & Nigg, B. M. (1998). Pronation in runners. Sports Medicine, 26(3), 169–176. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9802173/ 

The post The 12 Best Treadmill Running Shoes of 2024, Tested by Experts appeared first on BarBend.

Naturally, not every foot strike will require a stability-minded sneaker, but for those with overpronation issues, they could enhance your experience greatly. To help you put your best foot forward, we’ve taken to the streets, trails, and tracks with dozens of popular shoe silhouettes and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this guide to our favorite stability running shoes available today.

The 10 Best Stability Running Shoes

• Best Stability Running Shoes Overall: Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Treadmill Running: Nike InfinityRN 4
• Best Cushioned Stability Running Shoe: HOKA Gaviota 5
• Best Budget Stability Running Shoes: Asics GT-1000 12
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Long Distances: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Speedwork: Saucony Tempus
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Daily Training: HOKA Arahi 7
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Beginners: Asics Gel-Kayano 30
• Best Zero-Drop Stability Running Shoe: Altra Provision 8
• Best Stability Running Shoe for Trail Running: Brooks Cascadia 17

How We Tested and Chose the Best Stability Running Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best stability running shoes, we got hands-on with 50 different shoe profiles from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

Midfoot Support

Naturally, stability running shoes will feature some sense of a support system to set them apart from more neutral running shoes, with components being proprietary from brand to brand. Some sneaker silhouettes feature more utilitarian guide rails or rigid foams across the midfoot to help prevent overpronation, while others employ a different contouring along the midsole cradle where your arch sits within the shoe itself.

We made sure to highlight these components during testing, seeing how each felt across varied distances and speeds. If a stability system was more rigid or accommodating, we made note of the experience below.

Midsole Cushioning

Regardless of how supportive a stability running shoe is, it should still be comfortable when in the throes of training. This comfort relies heavily on the midsole foam. During trials, we examined the feel of each midsole, logging how bouncy, energetic, plush, or dull it was across our runs.

[Related: How Many Calories Are Burned Running a Mile?]

We also looked at where these foams could benefit athletes most across different running styles. For example, if a midsole provided a lightweight feel with an energetic snap through heel-to-toe transitions, we were inclined to recommend it for tempo runs. A softer, more plush foam that kept us cozy from start to finish could be better suited for long-distance sessions or recovery days.

Heel Structure

Your stability running shoe’s heel can also be a great source for extra support. A strong, more rigid heel cup can help cradle your ankle to prevent excessive inward or outward rolling. We looked for running sneakers featuring a sturdy heel counter that kept us in line during trials.

In addition to the heel cup structure, we also took the comfort of the heel counter and collar into question. After all, there’s no sense in running with a pair of shoes that leave your Achilles worn and weathered through excessive rubbing. We made note of how these components felt on foot, highlighting specific designs that could potentially pose a problem for some athletes.

Outsole

The outsole of your running shoe is the literal point of contact between you and the terrain, whether that be a paved road, city sidewalk, indoor treadmill, or hiking trail. To improve your stability and sense of balance, you should look for an outsole featuring a tread pattern fit for your preferred environment. For example, we’ve included specific selections for treadmill running and trail running, as these running surfaces will require a unique sense of traction that other road running shoes may not deliver.

[Related: Treadmill Safety Tips: 9 Ways to Avoid Common Treadmill Injuries]

Additionally, a wider outsole can help you step confidently through your workouts, providing a larger swath of footing to land on with each progressive stride. We made note of which stability running shoes feature such build qualities.

Best Stability Running Shoes Overall: Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21

Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21

Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21s feature a sockliner upper that eliminates the tongue for a snug, convenient fit that can help improve lockdown. Plus, the Go-To Support system can be beneficial for those wanting extra stability across their strides.

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If you’re looking for a trusted pair of stability shoes to help bolster your proper running form, the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21s are tough to beat. While the original Glycerin 21s are a fine sneaker in their own right, this trim model combining the sockliner flat knit upper and Go-To Support motion control system is the perfect mix for athletes looking to bring their strides back to a more natural plane.

I’ve ran in plenty of Brooks silhouettes featuring the GTS system, which employs the brand’s GuideRails technology exhibited through an interior medial post and exterior post. While I tend to supinate — where your ankle rolls outward instead of inward — I still appreciate the level of support this technology provides, and I always feel as if I’m pacing naturally without feeling confined. In total, I rated the stability at 5 out of 5.

Another supporting feature to this Glycerin 21 iteration is the wider base. This simple yet effective design element can help curate a more balanced landing with each foot strike. I especially appreciated this element when making turns through my routes, or when transitioning from a packed gravel trailway onto asphalt. 

Like other Brooks sneakers, the Glycerin StealthFit GTS 21s exude comfort, which I rated at 4 out of 5. The DNA Loft v3 midsole foam creates a light, plush sensation during landings, yet still retains some rigidity for boosted support and energy return. Additionally, the StealthFit profile employs a sockliner-style flat knit upper that mimics a slip-in bootie with no present tongue.

This StealthFit trim is probably my favorite Brooks iteration over the years, as you can conveniently achieve a desired lockdown without finicking with the tongue. Plus, the flat-knit design eliminates unwanted rubbing or irritation around the ankle and heel.

However, these Brooks sneakers may not be for every stability-conscious athlete. With 10 millimeters of drop, the silhouette is more attuned to heel strikers, meaning those that land on their heel during strides. 

Studies indicate that midfoot and forefoot strikers can prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop, as these dimensions can eliminate unnecessary cushioning in the heel while also alleviating pressure on your knees and hips. (1) As such, I rated the overall ride at a conservative 3.75 out of 5.

[Related: Best Running Socks]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Treadmill Running: Nike InfinityRN 4

Nike InfinityRN 4

Nike InfinityRN 4

The Nike InfinityRN 4s feature ReactX foam across the midsole, which can be ideal for athletes wanting some extra pop to go along with their arch-supporting underfoot sensations. The waffle-patterned outsole can also provide ample traction, perfect for carving through your routes and training sessions with ease.

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The best cardio machines often feature design elements that work to reduce impact. According to BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, “Running treadmills have cushioned decks, which can alleviate some of the joint pain associated with running outside.” That’s helpful, but it can still be wise for those with pronation issues to opt for a stability shoe. For these indoor training sessions, we recommend the Nike InfinityRN 4s.

I like these Nike sneakers for treadmill runs as opposed to on-road sessions, as the present support system isn’t as aggressive as other stability shoes I’ve run in previously. This can be beneficial for treadmill workouts, as the consistent foot strikes in a singular position can lead to overworked stabilizer muscles with more aggressive motion control elements.

I also rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5 given the wider base featured across the InfinityRN 4’s outsole. This can be great for maintaining balance throughout your running gait, especially when trying to keep pace with the moving treadmill belt underfoot. A more structured heel counter adds to the silhouette, creating a nice sense of lockdown without any errant slipping or movement during strides.

[Related: Can You Train for a Marathon On a Treadmill?]

The Nike InfinityRN 4s also feature a Flyknit upper, which offers a somewhat flexible stretch over the top of your foot for added security. However, the sizing is admittedly snug — I would recommend sizing up one half size if you desire a roomier fit. There’s a water-resistant membrane within the upper design, which can be fine for road-running scenarios in inclement weather, but can severely limit the shoe’s ventilation. I scored the InfinityRN 4’s at 3.75 out of 5 for breathability.

Additionally, this shoe’s waffle-pattern outsole proved to be plenty durable for extended wear. I’ve worn these Nikes both on-road and on-treadmill and have yet to see any wear across the tread pattern.

However, the thicker rubber along and dense ReactX foam does take the weight up to 12.5 ounces. This can make for a clunky running experience as you begin to tire, especially when trying to tackle 10 or more miles atop your favorite treadmill. I rated the weight at 3.5 out of 5 and recommend reserving these kicks for shorter daily jogs or slow recovery runs.

Best Cushioned Stability Running Shoe: HOKA Gaviota 5

HOKA Gaviota 5

HOKA Gaviota 5

For athletes wanting a well-cushioned running shoe with added support for more natural steps, the Gaviota 5s from HOKA could be just the ticket. Utilizing an H-frame support system, this sneaker adds a more rigid sense of stability across your arch while allowing the CMEVA midsole foam to cushion your heel strikes and toe-offs.

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If you’re looking for a road-running shoe with stability and a good sense of underfoot cushioning, the Gaviota 5s from HOKA are our top pick. This impressive silhouette uses a new H-frame support system — a redesign from the J-frame of previous iterations — to promote a better sense of stability across your midfoot while allowing your heel and forefoot to be unhindered for optimal landings and toe-offs.

While I’ve tried plenty of HOKA (formerly branded as HOKA One One) profiles in the past, this is actually the first pair of Gaviotas I’ve run in. Overall, I really enjoyed the stability at play, rating the Gaviota 5s at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. 

There’s a pronounced sense of structure along the midfoot, but I appreciate how the H-frame design allows for better ground feel at the heel and forefoot through the soft EVA foam. Plus, side-to-side movement was basically thwarted, which is always the mark of a good stability shoe for running everyday.

Speaking of the EVA foam midsole, I really appreciated the comfort underfoot that felt soft yet still structured enough for efficient transitions. Combine this technology with the brand’s signature early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry, and you have a kick that can seamlessly roll from heel to toe. I scored the ride of this sneaker at 4 out of 5, respectively.

I also appreciated the creel jacquard mesh upper that kept the top of my foot secure and well-ventilated. However, the collar around my ankle and heel proved to be a sticking point, or rather, a slipping point. Given the plush design, it was difficult to find a secure heel lockdown with a standard lacing setup. I rated the lockdown at 3.75 out of 5, and highly recommend taking advantage of the extra top eyelet for a lace lock system.

The Gaviota 5s retail for $175, which is a bit expensive for stability running shoes. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $150 for these more advanced running sneakers, so a $25 price hike may be too much for some budgets. However, if you want the best cushioning possible for your weekly miles, it’s tough to ignore this popular HOKA silhouette.

[Related: The Best Cushioned Treadmills]

Best Budget Stability Running Shoes: Asics GT-1000 12

Asics GT-1000 12

Asics GT-1000 12

At $100, this budget-friendly stability running shoe can be a great introduction to the category, requiring less of an investment over the average $150 price tag. Plus, the Asics GT-1000 12s feature the brand’s signature PureGEL technology in the heel for additional shock absorption.

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Given the added motion control components, you can expect to pay a little more for stability running shoes than other silhouettes on the market. However, there are some budget-friendly profiles out there, such as the Asics GT-1000 12s. Coming in at $100, roughly $50 less than the average price of high-quality stability runners, these kicks can be excellent for wallet-minded athletes looking for an upgraded sense of underfoot support.

I’ve ran in previous iterations of the GT-1000 lineup and feel they’re a great introductory shoe for runners given their value — which I rated at 5 out of 5 — and stabilizing features. The proprietary LITETRUSS technology can provide ample support across the medial side of the shoe, which helps limit excessive inward roll.

Additionally, I’m always a fan of Asics sneakers featuring the brand’s signature GEL technology. The GT-1000 12s house this component in the heel, which can help alleviate unwanted stress upon impact.

[Related: The Best Treadmills for Bad Knees]

As far as cushioning is concerned, I’ve had mediocre experiences with the FLYTEFOAM midsole design. Yes, it’s comfortable and supportive, but I wouldn’t call the ride bouncy or energetic. The foam is just sort of there with no true standout features. This can be fine for beginners just finding their groove, but may be a letdown for more advanced athletes. I scored the cushioning at 3.75 out of 5.

Another point worth mentioning is the tongue makeup. This component is not gusseted, meaning the tongue is free to move around more during movement when not laced down as tightly. This can lead to multiple readjustments over the course of a workout, so I’d recommend taking the time before training to find that ideal lacing security.

Despite these callouts, I still think the GT-1000 12s can be suitable for a number of athletes needing the extra support. Think of these as a gateway sneaker — there’s not a high upfront cost, yet you can easily determine whether stability running shoes are right for your personal gait. In my eyes, that’s worth every penny.

[Related: The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Long Distances: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4

As a premier example of a “max-cushioned” running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 features a heaping slab of Fresh Foam across the midsole for a comfortable yet supportive ride. A 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop adds to the coziness, supporting heel strikes, midfoot strikes, and forefoot strikes.

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Trying to tackle extended mileage but looking for a stability shoe to carry you through those long workouts? The Fresh Foam X More v4 from New Balance can be just the ticket. Serving as a prime example of a “max-cushioned” running shoe, this sneaker features a thick chunk of the brand’s Fresh Foam X foam across the midsole which can provide a nice blend of comfort, support, and energy return that’s ready for those double-digit miles.

I’ve owned these New Balance shoes for a while and always appreciate the level of cushioning underfoot during runs. I rated the cushioning at 4.5 out of 5, too, because while you definitely feel some shock absorption during landings, the foam rebounds easily for better energy return that can carry you through the finish line (these are a popular racing shoe, too). 

Plus, the 4-millimeter drop can be more accommodating for different foot strike preferences rather than favoring heel strikes, midfoot strikes, or forefoot strikes. (1)(2)

[Related: The Best Running Warm-Up for Your Next Cardio Session]

Despite the listed 11-ounce weight, these kicks also feel light on-foot, which can be ideal for tackling longer mileage without feeling like you’re wearing cinder blocks toward the end of your route.

The Fresh Foam X More v4s also feature an engineered mesh upper. While this textile can run hot under direct sunlight, leading to my 3.75 out of 5 rating for breathability, I did enjoy the fit enough for a 4.5 out of 5 rating. The material is stretchy enough to accommodate a wide range of foot profiles, yet I still got a premium amount of structure and lockdown. The toe box, too, showcased enough room to allow for toe splaying, which can be great when trying to make toe-offs as efficient as possible.

However, I do recommend taking some time pre-run to secure your laces, as the tongue does not feature a gusseted design. This means that the component can move and slide from one side to the next during movement, which can lead to unwanted pressure or an uncomfortable fit. On my first few outings with the Fresh Foam X More v4s, I’d routinely have to stop and readjust the tongue in an effort to achieve that proper over-foot fit.

[Related: How To Build Stamina for Running]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Speedwork: Saucony Tempus

Saucony Tempus

Saucony Tempus

Looking for a fast stability running shoe for those extra-speedy sessions on the road? Boasting PWRRUN PB midsole foam and a sub-9-ounce frame, the Saucony Tempus can be great for quick pick-ups without compromising midfoot support.

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Tempo runs can be a fun way to test your merit on the road, track, or treadmill. However, quickening the pace can give room for excessive overpronation as you focus more on faster strides and less on foot placement and transitions. The Saucony Tempus, however, can be prime for these speed days by providing a lightweight profile that turns over easily while still supporting you underfoot for natural, more aligned steps.

I rated the responsiveness of these Saucony speedwork shoes at 4 out of 5, as I could easily up the tempo thanks to the energetic PWRRUN PB midsole foam. There’s plenty of energy across the design, as it compresses quickly during landings and rebounds nicely to help propel you forward. Additionally, the contoured midsole frame helped me stay cradled in the shoe, sort of how you’d expect to be locked in and secure in a racing seat in a racecar.

[Related: What the Heck Is a Tempo Run?]

The midsole technologies are definitely designed with speed in mind, and I recommend you reserve this shoe solely for those situations. While energetic and responsive, the PWRRUN PB midsole foam is a little underwhelming at slower paces, almost too rigid to enjoy. To compress the foam, you really need to put your foot on the gas (pun intended) and throw some energy into each stride. Slower jogging days, from my experience, just can’t get the component into gear.

The upper is also a standout component of this impressive Tempus profile. The mesh textile features multiple cut-outs across the toe box, which can help improve ventilation as you pick up, land, and roll through your faster running endeavors. The cut-outs also serve as a great way for the Tempus to shed weight — another common feature associated with shoes designed for speedwork. As such, I rated the breathability at 4.5 out of 5.

Finally, I enjoyed the rubber outsole design, and felt the XT-900 rubber did a fine job of keeping traction on dry terrain like concrete or asphalt. Running in wet conditions, like after a morning rain, proved to be a different story. I scored the outsole at 4 out of 5 as I was experiencing some slips and slides when pacing over shallow puddles or wet cement.

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Best Stability Running Shoe for Daily Training: HOKA Arahi 7

HOKA Arahi 7

HOKA Arahi 7

The Arahi 7s from HOKA employ a J-frame support system that wraps around your medial side and heel for help against excessive inward roll during strides. Plus, a flat-knit upper creates a sleek, stylish overlay across the top of your foot for improved looks and breathability.

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Your daily trainers should be a running shoe that you can turn to with little thought — something that can help you achieve those daily step counts without too much huff or puff. The HOKA Arahi 7s are the brand’s stability-minded rendition of the Clifton lineup (one of HOKA’s most-popular silhouettes). Combining a compression-molded EVA foam with a J-frame support system, these kicks can be prime for daily mileage.

I’ve run in the Arahi 7s and their predecessors, the HOKA Arahi 6s, and do feel that this iteration is a better fit — literally. The redesigned flat-knit upper offers a snug fit without feeling too constrictive, although I’d recommend those with wide feet to opt for the available wide sizing, as there’s less stretch across the textile. 

Plus, I’m a big fan of daily trainers with convenience in mind, which is showcased in the extended heel tab for easier entry and exit. I rated the fit of the Arahi 7s at 4.5 out of 5, respectively.

[Related: How Much Cardio Is Too Much? Running Coaches Weigh In]

These HOKAs gather their stability moniker through the brand’s J-frame tech, which is a more rigid medial post that curves like the letter J around the heel for improved structure. While some may need miles to get used to the dichotomy at play between this component and the CMEVA foam midsole, I still think it’s a suitable solution for improved strides. It may be too aggressive for those with minor ankle roll, but athletes with severe overpronation will likely appreciate the more rigid framing.

I also scored the comfort at 4 out of 5 given the collar and heel structure. I enjoyed plushness at this area and didn’t notice any heel slip during my trials. However, I do see where the raised heel pull can rub some athletes the wrong way (literally), hence my less-than-perfect rating for the category.

[Related: Jogging Vs. Running — What’s the Difference and Why Does it Matter?]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Beginners: Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Asics Gel-Kayano 30

The Asics Gel-Kayano 30s feature the brand’s 4D Guidance System — a stability feature that utilizes a softer foam across your arch that adapts to your individual step over time. A wider base can also be ideal for balance during movement by creating a larger landing area for each step.

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Novice running enthusiasts asking the question, “what is cardio?,” should look for a stability running shoe that’s comfortable enough for the growing pains of finding your stride, yet stable and supportive enough to help lessen any unwanted ankle movement during training. In our opinion, the Gel-Kayano 30s from Asics can be an excellent introductory sneaker thanks to its convenient and comfortable 4D Guidance System that gives you an adaptable arch support that gets better and refined to your footprint with each passing session.

This new Gel-Kayano iteration ditches the LITETRUSS technology found in the Asics Gel-Kayano 29, which was a more aggressive way to help prevent overpronation issues. I enjoy this adaptable approach, especially for beginners, as it allows the footbed to mold to your specific needs rather than trying to force you in a certain direction (or into a natural foot plane). For these reasons, I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5.

The Gel-Kayano 30s are also great for novice runners thanks to the wider base. This can help create a wider landing surface, and in turn, create a better sense of balance. Anyone who’s turned a corner on asphalt at a faster-than-walking pace can attest that an underfoot slide is a quick way to ensure you never want to run again, so I appreciate that Asics broadened the base to help give those just getting their feet into running a heightened sense of confidence.

As far as style is concerned, I scored the Gel-Kayano 30s at 4 out of 5, too. There are 22 different colorways to choose from — other stability running shoes typically offer 12 hues or less — which can be ideal for those wanting to step out in a vibrant set of kicks. Plus, the reflective accents can help promote better visibility. As someone that routinely trains in the evening hours around sunset, this can be plenty helpful for ensuring on-road safety.

Finally, I like these Asics sneakers for novices as you kind of have to work to get them up to speed. The larger slab of FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam across the midsole takes some doing to get up to training paces, but really begins to show its response and cushioning once you get there. I think of this as a nice payoff that can institute a positive relationship with running — put in the work, and reap the rewards.

[Related: Treadmill Workouts for Beginners]

Best Zero-Drop Stability Running Shoe: Altra Provision 8

Altra Provision 8

Altra Provision 8

Zero-drop shoes and stability aren’t linked often, so the Provision 8s from Altra are a bit of a unicorn in the running shoe category. A GuideRails system helps bolster support across the medial side of your foot, while the 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop can be beneficial for promoting a more natural striking pattern that’s favored by athletes partaking in the barefoot movement.

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For athletes following the barefoot movement — wearing zero-drop sneakers to promote a more natural foot movement through runs — finding a silhouette that matches the minimalist aesthetic but still delivers stabilizing components can be tough. However, Altra, a brand synonymous with zero-drop footwear, offers the Provision 8, a minimalist sneaker with GuideRails technology to keep your strides natural and supported throughout training.

I’ve run in multiple Altra silhouettes over the years, including the Provision 8s, and always admire the ergonomic FootShape fit. This profile features a rounded, roomy outsole that better aligns with the actual shape of your foot, which can be great for wide-footed athletes. Additionally, I like how the heel counter stays snug across my Achilles, limiting heel slip as I transition through steps. I graded the Provision 8s at 4.5 out of 5 for fit.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training]

The breathable mesh upper also gives room for plenty of air and ventilation during training, making these a great solution for spring and summer jaunts outdoors. I scored these Altra sneakers at 4 out of 5 for the upper design, too, given that there’s a bit of stretch yet not so much that it sacrifices lockdown across the top of the foot.

When it comes to the ride of these Provision 8s, I definitely felt stable and supported thanks to the GuideRails system placed across the medial side of the foot. I didn’t feel as if the tech forced me into a compromised foot plane, which can be ideal for those just getting used to stability running shoes.

However, I conservatively rated the ride at 3.7 out of 5 given that zero-drop sneakers are something you don’t seamlessly transition into. The lack of cushioning under the heel can be jarring for some, and the minimalist makeup combined with the GuideRails system does promote more of a forefoot strike upon landings. As a known heel striker, this was something I had to overcome and adapt to over multiple runs.

[Related: Why Do My Knees Hurt When I Run?]

Best Stability Running Shoe for Trail Running: Brooks Cascadia 17