Best running shoes, tested and reviewed (2026): Saucony, Nike, Hoka

Honorable mentions

As we said, WIRED runners cover hundreds of miles every year. Here are some other shoes we tested that you may want to consider if the above doesn’t suit your foot. If you’re not familiar with a brand, we recommend going to a local play store for a test run before using your credit card.

Diadora Nucleo 2 for $165: The Nucleo 2 is not a fancy, high-energy, very springy shoe. But if you’re a fan of straightforward, no-nonsense comfort and good, inherent stability across a good range of pace, the Nucleo 2 delivers.

Rad R1 for $160: Designed for mastering the gym, HIIT workouts, running, and all types of mixed workouts, I’ve been using the Rad R1 when I’m sapping my strength and condition in the gym like a good boy. They’re good for short distances and miles on a softer walking belt, and are stable and supportive enough to stand under the bar and provide control for exercises like box jumps and lunges. Looks good too.

Ultra Outroad 3 for $130: Altra is a smaller brand known for its wide toe box and non-slip from heel to toe – they make shoes feel As if you were running barefoot, but providing more protection. This is my favorite shoe for switching between roads and trails. It’s affordable too.—Adrian Su

New Balance Rebel V5 for $145, Adidas EVO SL for $120, and Mizuno Neo Vista 2 for $200: Another top-tier machine to rival the Saucony Endorphin Speed ​​5, the Rebel V5 is smooth, light, and capable across the entire speed range. The Adidas EVO SL can also handle anything you throw at it. But if you like your stuff super soft with a little bounce, the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 offers a plush, uniquely cushioned ride.

New Balance Fresh Foam If you’ve never run before, the Hoka Clifton 9 is my recommendation for beginner runners. Although the Hoka is very popular, this shoe is very simple, comfortable, balanced and lightweight.—Adrian Su

Saucony Ride 17 for $99: This is also a good model for budget vintage shoes.

Saucony Hurricane 24 for $110, Brooks Glycerin 21 GTS for $160: Consumer Technology Director and podcast host Michael Calore works at Brooks Glycerin. These are our alternative pick if you’re shopping for shoes that offer more traction.

Instructions

How should I take care of my sneakers?

• Give them a day off. After long periods, the midsole foam takes time to relieve pressure. Rotating your shoes for 48 hours between runs enhances your shoes’ ability to bounce back.
• Undo your laces. We know you’re tired, but starting (or worse, pushing back) without loosening your running shoes is a surefire way to quickly damage your heel.
• Wash them if they get muddy. Mud and sand in the upper fibers can cause them to deteriorate. But do not wash it in the washing machine, wash it by hand, keep it out of the dryer.
• Keep things cool. Prolonged exposure to high heat from a radiator or sunlight can dry out, harden and damage the midsole.
• stuff for them. Remove the insoles and dry each running shoe individually. Then use scuffed newspaper to dry the wet interiors faster and help the tops retain their shape.

How long should my shoes last?

The collective wisdom of the Internet 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 foams, outer rubbers and higher technology mean it’s now harder to give blanket advice.

There are many different formulations of modern midsole foams. Durability is now judged not only by how long the protective pad lasts, but also whether it continues to deliver bounce and performance. Some superior foams may lose their initial energy but remain as protective as a firmer, more traditional EVA sole. For example, your high-tech carbon racing shoe can become an everyday runner once it loses its top speed.

You also have to take into account your unique running style. Shoe wear varies between runners and is influenced by variables such as weight, stride pattern, speed, daily use, terrain and climate. There are obvious signs of wear: heel collars rubbing, holes in the uppers, or the handle being worn to the point that it is no longer effective. It is difficult to detect when the midsole is finished. They don’t wrinkle in the same way as old shoes.

Best tip: Use your shoes until you feel something. When that happens, you may want to start shopping around.

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