Friday, June 5, 2026
Home / Technology / Best Running Shoes, Tested and Reviewed (2026): Sa...
Technology

Best Running Shoes, Tested and Reviewed (2026): Saucony, Adidas, Hoka

CN
CitrixNews Staff
·
Best Running Shoes, Tested and Reviewed (2026): Saucony, Adidas, Hoka
CommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this story

Featured in this article

Best OverallSaucony Endorphin AzuraRead more$150

REI (Men's)

Best for Your PRPuma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3Read more$300

Puma (Men's)

Best Marathon ShoePuma Deviate Nitro Elite 4Read more$250

Amazon (Men's)

Best Value ShoeKiprun Kipstorm TempoRead more$170

Running Warehouse (Men's)

Whether you’re just starting out or you already think of a marathon as just another long run, the best running shoes are a nonnegotiable aspect of your workout uniform. Lacing up the right footwear can improve performance and keep you healthy. It’s simple: A happy, comfortable runner runs more. But finding your sole mate can be confusing. Running-shoe shelves are cluttered with dozens of brands, hundreds of styles, and a dictionary load of unhelpful technical jargon.

Now add to that list hyped shoes like the superlight Adidas Pro Evo 3, used by Sabastian Sawe to run the first sub-2 hour marathon. Thankfully, WIRED’s running shoe experts are here to help you sort through the options.

We’ve tested dozens of the latest running shoes to give you the inside track on the best running shoes you can buy right now. Be sure to check out our other health and fitness reviews, including the Best Walking Pads, the Best Fitness Trackers, and the Best Protein Powders.

Update May 2026: We added the Saucony Endorphin Azura, the Kipun Kipstorm Tempo, and the Hoka Speedgoat 7. We also updated links and prices for all our best running shoes.

Honorable Mentions

Image may contain Clothing Footwear Shoe Sneaker Person and Running ShoePhotograph: G Stockstudio/Getty Images

As we said, WIRED runners pound hundreds of miles every year. Here are a few of the other shoes we've tested that you might want to consider if the above do not work for your foot. If you're not familiar with a brand, we recommend going to a local running store for a test run before plunking down your credit card.

Diadora Nucleo 2 for $165: The Nucleo 2 isn’t a wow, high-energy, super springy shoe. But if you’re a fan of straightforward, no nonsense comfort and good inherent stability across a good range of paces, the Nucleo 2 delivers.

Rad R1 for $130: Made to master gym, HIIT, running and all manner of hybrid workouts, I’ve been using the Rad R1 when I’m doing my strength and conditioning work in the gym like a good boy. They work for short runs and miles on the softer treadmill belt, while being stable and supportive enough to get under the bar and offering control for drills like box jumps and lunges. They look good, too.

New Balance Rebel V5 for $145, Adidas EVO SL for $105, Kiprun Kipride Max ($160). Another top-notch all-around shoe to rival the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5, the Rebel V5 is smooth, light and capable across the whole pace range. The Adidas EVO SL is a great alternative to the Saucony Endorphin Azura and can also handle anything you throw at it. But if you like your things super soft with a bit of bounce, the Kiprun Kipride Max serves up a cushioned plush ride with a bit of pop.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 for $170, HOKA Clifton 9 for $164: If you've never run before, the Hoka Clifton 9 is my recommendation for a beginner runner. Despite Hoka's outsized (ahem) reputation, this is a pretty minimal shoe that's comfortable, balanced, and light. —Adrienne So

Saucony Ride 17 for $110: This is also a good older budget-shoe model.

Saucony Hurricane 25 for $135, Brooks Glycerin 23 GTS for $180: Consumer tech director and podcast host Michael Calore runs in the Brooks Glycerin. This is our alternative pick if you're shopping for shoes that offer greater stability.

FAQ

How Should I Care for My Running Shoes?

  • Give them a rest day. After long runs, midsole foam takes time to decompress. Rotating shoes with 48 hours between runs boosts your shoe’s bounce-back ability.
  • Undo your laces. You’re tired, we know, but kicking off (or worse squeezing back in) without unlacing your running shoes is a surefire way to damage the heels fast.
  • Wash them if they get muddy. Mud and sand in the upper fibers can cause them to degrade. But don’t wash them in the machine. Do it by hand—and stay well clear of the dryer.
  • Keep things cool. Prolonged exposure to high heat from a radiator or the sun’s rays can dry, harden, and damage the midsole.
  • Stuff them. Remove the insoles and dry each running shoe separately. Then use scrunched up newspaper to dry out damp inners faster and help the uppers retain their shape.

How Long Should My Shoes Last?

The internet's collective wisdom says that you should replace your shoes somewhere between 300 and 500 miles. However, this decades-old rule of thumb is based on a few limited studies and general advice from brands. New foam varieties, outsole rubbers, and upper technology means it’s now harder to offer blanket advice.

There are many formulas of modern midsole foams. Durability is now judged not only by how long the protective cushioning lasts, but also whether it continues to deliver the bounce and performance. Some of the top superfoams might lose their initial energy but remain as protective as a firmer, more traditional EVA sole. For example, your high-tech carbon race shoe could become your daily runner once it’s lost its top-speed edge.

You also have to factor in your unique running style. Shoes wear differently for different runners, impacted by variables like weight, stride pattern, pace, daily usage, terrain, and climate. There are obvious signs of wear and tear: Heel collars rubbed through, holes in the uppers or grip worn to the point it’s no longer effective. It’s harder to spot when a midsole has had its day. They don’t crease in the same way older shoes used to.

The best advice: Use your shoes until something feels off. When that happens, you might want to start shopping.

Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscriber content that's too important to ignore. Subscribe Today.

Comments

Back to topTriangleKieran Alger is a freelance writer and editor specializing in the space where health, fitness, sports, and technology collide. You’ll find him covering everything from the latest true wireless headphones to real-time blood glucose monitors and the latest performance-enhancing running shoes. All in search of faster miles and improved health. Aside ... Read MoreWIRED contributorTopicsrunningrunning shoesShoppingbuying guidesoutdoorsSportsapparelfitnessRecovery ModeThe Best Wireless Chargers to Refuel Your Phone (or Watch)Stop fumbling for cables in the dark. These WIRED-tested stands and pads will take the hassle out of refueling your phone, wireless earbuds, and watch.Simon HillAll the Best Vacuum Cleaners We’ve Ever TriedLooking for all our top recommended vacuums? Here are our favorites in every style we’ve tested, from stick vacs to robot vacuums. Nena Farrell The Best Cat Water Fountains for Pampered PetsEnsuring your cat stays hydrated is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy. The right pet water fountain can help.Molly HigginsBreathe Easy Thanks to the Best Air Purifier for Every HomeProtect your home against dust, pets, allergies, and more with the best air purifiers, tested firsthand.Molly HigginsThe Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for All Your DevicesKeep your phone, laptop, handheld gaming console, and other electronics running with these travel-friendly power banks.Simon HillThe Best Meal Kits of 2026, Tested by a Former Restaurant CriticHere are the best meal kits in 2026, including Martha Stewart’s delivery box, a GLP-1–supportive plan, and a budget-friendly option.Matthew KorfhageAfter Testing Dozens, These Are the Outdoor Security Cameras I RecommendThese weatherproof outdoor security cams keep a watchful eye on your property while you get on with life. Our list includes battery-powered cameras that need no subscription.Simon HillQuell the Heat With Our Favorite Window Air ConditionersThese are the AC units we’ve trusted to cool our homes for months, if not years.Matthew KorfhageThe Best Printers for Every Home-Office NeedNeed to print labels, stickers, stacks of pages, color photos, or even a textured mug? I tested the best home printers, including ink-tank, cartridge, and laser options.Brad BourqueThe Best Computer Speakers for Jamming Out in Your Home OfficeThese WIRED-tested computer speakers, from stereo speakers to surround sound, will suit any budget.Simon HillThe Best Smart Rings for Tracking Your Health in 2026A svelte smart ring can track important activity, sleep, and health metrics. Plus—unlike most smartwatches—it doesn’t need to be charged every day.Boutayna Chokrane The Best Automatic Pet Feeders for When You’re AwayWe tested some of the most popular automatic dry- and wet-food pet feeders to see which ones are worth the money.Molly Higgins

Wired Coupons

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52309/logo/squarespace_promo_code.pngSquarespace Promo Code

10% Off Exclusive Squarespace Promo Code 2026

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52284/logo/home_depot_promo_code.pngHome Depot Promo Code

10% Off Home Depot Promo Code With Sign-up

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52280/logo/lg_promo_code.pngLG Promo Code

LG Promo Code: 20% Off Your First Order

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52269/logo/dell_coupon_code.pngDell Coupon Code

10% Off Dell Coupon Code for New Customers

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52261/logo/samsung_promo_code(2).pngSamsung Promo Code

30% Samsung Coupon - Offer Program 2026

https://www.wired.com/coupon-element/static/shop/52689/logo/doordash_promo_code.pngDoordash Promo Code

Doordash Coupon $20 Off

Originally reported by Wired