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I run to get outside in the fresh air, for cardio benefits and to get out of my head — it’s hard to think about life’s stresses when I’m huffing and puffing. Finding the right running shoes should not be stressful.
Before I get into my methodology of how I got to this list of my favourite runners, I should clarify that I’m not “a runner,” per se. I once incautiously ran a half marathon without training but aside from that, run 5Ks. I do a 5K route quite frequently, three to four times a week, and that’s the extent of my running – it usually takes me between 30 and 33 minutes.
I still have knees (already working with a reconstructed ACL) and other body parts that I’d like to keep in the best condition possible. I look for high-quality shoes that support my casual running endeavours. I also use custom orthotics and recommend doing the same as bespoke support is unparalleled with the insoles that come with the average shoe. If you have foot-related problems like plantar fasciitis, speak to your healthcare practitioner about the best shoes for you.
How I chose the best running shoes: I wanted to find the best running shoes for my needs — these vary from person to person. I have a pretty neutral foot position (some slight pronation) so I went for a neutral shoe (versus runners that are intended to address the needs of foot alignment, like stability and motion control options — learn more about shoe types, here).
On a mission to find the best neutral running shoe, I went to online sources like Reddit, review sites (including our own) and the comment sections of top shoe brands. I also contacted a representative for each brand to ask for their recommendation on the best running shoe for casual running. From there, I ordered the top shoe from each brand and hit the road.
This is also a “running” list, so I’ll regularly update it.
My favourite running shoes, ranked
1. Tied first place: light and cushiony:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v1
1. Tied first place: light and grounded:Nike Pegasus 41
2.Light and medium cushion: adidas Supernova Rise
3.Medium cushion:Asics Novablast 4
4. Light and firm: Saucony Ride 1
5. Medium weight and firm:On Cloudmonster 2
6. Medium weight and cushiony: Hoka Kawna
My favourite running shoes, explained
#1 My favourite:New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
My thoughts: I used to be dedicated to Asics — getting the latest Nimbus model. But around five years ago I was introduced to New Balance and they’ve been my favourite since. It comes down to the weight, cushion and comfort. They’re light even though they’re super cushiony. They’re not a racing shoe, but fast enough to support my 5K around downtown Toronto. The foam has a nice shock absorption quality, accommodating daily concrete pounding. The upper is light and breathable and the shoe laces never come untied. The 1080s are my new-ish go-tos.
Firmness: Soft and cushiony
Weight: 217g (7.7 oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Available in standard, wide, extra-wide
Cost: $210
Where to buy: New Balance | Amazon (with a fluctuating price)
#1 My other favourite:Nike Pegasus 41
My thoughts: These are a secret that everyone is in on aside from me. The Pegasus was launched in 1982 and on my foot in the summer of 2024. They’re heavier than the Fresh Foam 1080s but feel lighter. They almost feel like a supportive and technical sock. I feel highly supported in these shoes. Unlike the 1080s, they don’t have a thick sole, so each step feels more grounded. I feel the fastest in these shoes compared to the rest on this list. The sole also has a good grip, making each step stable and controlled.
Firmness: Not too much cushioning, but medium firmness
Weight: Approximately 235g (8.3 oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Available in one standard width
Cost: $180
Where to buy:Nike
#2 Runner up: adidas Supernova Rise
My thoughts: The Supernova Rises are similar to the Nike Pegasuses but with a more cushioned sole. I like these because they’re neutral across many aspects of running shoes. They have a medium cushion width, medium cushion density and a light-to-medium weight. I enjoy these and would recommend them to runners who like neutral options with a bit more padding than the Nikes, above.
Firmness: Medium
Weight: 243g (8.56 oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Regular
Cost: $180
Where to buy: adidas
#3 Medium and cushiony:Asics Novablast 4
My thoughts: The Asics Novablasts are similar to 1080s above but not quite as light. They are super cushiony and provide support throughout a run. I find them unique in how they distribute my weight. I feel like they encourage me to strike the ground with my heel, which is something I need to consciously remember to do. That’s my favourite feature of this shoe. They’re similar to the Hoka’s below, in that they have a bit of a rocking horse design — I hit the road with my heel and get propelled forward.
Firmness: Medium and cushiony
Weight: Approximately 213g (7.5 oz) for women’s size 7
Width: Standard (also available in wide)
Cost: $140
Where to buy: Asics, Amazon (price ranges)
#4 Popular, but too firm for me: Saucony Ride 17
My thoughts: The Ride 17s feel light in weight but the sole feels so firm. The firmness level feels like it would weigh down the shoe more, but it somehow strikes that balance. If you’re looking for a firmer sole, these Sauconys are a great option. I prefer a more cushioned shoe, especially for casual daily runs.
Firmness: Medium-to-firm cushion
Weight: 238g (8.4oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Available in regular and wide
Cost: $180
Where to buy: Saucony | Amazon
#5 Popular, but too firm for me:On Cloudmonster 2
My thoughts: I appreciate On shoes because they have a distinct appearance and interesting differentiators like really thick soles. The Cloudmonster 2s have On’s signature sole which is designed to reduce the impact of running. I find the sole to be too firm. I get why they’re popular, as they’re comfortable and unique, but for running, I prefer a more cushioned sole.
Firmness: Firm cushion
Weight: Approximately 250 grams (8.8 oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Regular
Cost: $230
Where to buy: On
#6 Also popular, but too cushiony for me: Hoka Kawana
My thoughts: The Hoka Kawanas have a thick soft cushion. They are comfortable, but I prefer something a bit firmer so I feel more supported. Hoka has since come out with the Kawana 2s, which may have a different feel but seem very similar to the original style. Similar to the Asics Novablast 4s, these have a rocking horse feeling — like I’m being propelled forward. These Hokas take some getting used to due to the rocking feeling. I’d recommend these to people who like a very cushioned running shoe.
Firmness: Soft cushion
Weight: Approximately 238g (8.4 oz) for size 7 women’s
Width: Regular
Cost: $165
Where to buy: Hoka
Summary of my favourite running shoes
My favourite shoe is a toss-up between the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 and the Nike Pegasus 41. I like the cushioning of the New Balances, but the simplicity of the Nikes. All of the running shoes above are highly popular among runners and I see them being a favourite for others who have different preferences than I do. I’ve only considered fit and function in my review and not price. As mentioned, this is a live list and I will update it as I try more styles and brands. If your favourite runner didn’t make the list, let me know so I can give it a try.
Shopping Essentials is a category written by research-obsessed shopping experts. Explore product reviews, recommendations and launches — plus behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and hidden gems — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter.
rmann@postmedia.com
Shopping Essentials is a category written by research-obsessed shopping experts. Explore product reviews, recommendations and launches — plus behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and hidden gems — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter.
rmann@postmedia.com