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Our test team ran thousands of miles in 68 current pairs of running shoes from brands like Nike, Hoka, Brooks, Saucony, Altra, Puma, New Balance and more.
With no weight to slow you down, the Kinvara is the fastest-feeling model in our lineup and is great for fast workouts on the track.
There are many good reasons to run, and the obvious health benefits are just the start. Runners know that regular running workouts make you feel good, improving your mood and health at the same time. A good pair of running shoes can support your biomechanics and help you keep running without injury. A great pair of running shoes offers cushioning, support, and responsiveness while providing breathing room in the toe box that makes for a comfortable fit.
Since 2011, we've tested hundreds of pairs of running shoes, running thousands of miles on roads and tracks in all weather, to learn which shoes are best for what kinds of runners. Our testing team includes USA Track & Field certified coaches, a running biomechanics expert, trained exercise specialists, and ultra-distance top-10 finalists. Our laboratory team of engineers cuts open every pair to take actual measurements, according to the World Athletics guidelines, which are standardized in a way that manufacturer claims just aren't.
Both our men's and women's running teams love the Asics Novablast 5 (and the women's version) more than any other shoe, touting its versatility, comfort, responsiveness, and great value.
When it comes to a great performance at a reasonable price, our men's testing team love the versatility and traction of the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, and our women's team appreciates the “old-school” classic comfort and performance of the trusty Saucony Kinvara 15.
Our teams also agree that the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris (and the men's version) is the most impressive race shoe they've worn. It's exceptionally responsive, works for many types of runners, strides, and speeds, and is one of the lightest pairs of racing shoes we've laid our hands on.
If you're searching for the most comfortable cushioned shoe, a great everyday option, or the best speed trainer, we have recommendations for you. We keep this lineup fresh and update it several times a year — but only after we've had the chance to thoroughly test, examine, evaluate, and compare every shoe in it.
Editor's Note: We revised this review on February 1, 2025, to include new recommendations and comparisons from our most recent round of side-by-side testing.
A great daily trainer needs to be versatile, reliable, and comfortable. The Asics Novablast 5 is all of those things — but it's also fun. That's why lead tester Nathaniel Bailey wrote “This is the shoe I'd choose if I could only have one daily trainer.” The Novablast 5 is a consistent training partner, showing up regardless of pace or distance. And the energetic foam paired with a bouncy forefoot makes those training runs pretty darn enjoyable. We loved the last version of the Novablast, which also took home this award. The updates of bouncier foam, lower weight and better traction have made it better still.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Daily Trainer
Sizes Available
6-15 US, regular & wide
Measured Heel Stack Height
41 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
5 mm
Plate Type
None
The Novablast has a lot of cushioning underfoot — we measured 41 mm of foam at the heel — but it doesn't feel clunky. We think that's the key to its excellent versatility; it's soft and plush when you're running easy, but it's light and snappy enough when you want to push the pace. Very few shoes even approach this level of versatility. In fact, the Novablast recorded comfort scores that are nearly on par with shoes that provide comfort at the expense of any versatility, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus or the Saucony Triumph. But it also managed to earn good responsiveness scores, a very impressive feat. Our testers found that to be excellent for long efforts, helping to keep their legs both insulated and fresh.
The Novablast 5 is our favorite all-around daily trainer.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
That top-notch pairing of comfort and versatility makes it a great choice for many different types of runners. Experienced marathoners, who are logging big training weeks? Check. Beginning runners who want a comfortable and confidence-inspiring shoe to test things out? Check. Anyone in between? Check. Obviously, no shoe is going to work for every runner. But the Novablast is our most recommended shoe for a reason. For a lot of runners, we think this shoe can function as the only running shoe they have. It's plenty comfortable for a few hours of running at a time, and it can get the job done at the local parkrun as well.
The high stack of foam, light upper and fun geometry make the Novablast 5 a joy to run in.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction was a huge issue in the previous version of the Novablast. In this iteration, Asics used a new tread pattern and outsole compound to provide better grip on wet and slick surfaces. It's a significant improvement, but it still is worse in the snow and ice than many key competitors, like the Velocity Nitro 3, Adizero SL2, or Rebel v4. If traction matters to you, we'd choose one of those options. It's also worth noting that some users may not enjoy the trampoline-inspired forefoot. We think an option like the Hoka Mach 6 would work well for those runners, providing good versatility and cushioning paired with a less noticeable geometry. A shoe rarely makes it into both our men's and women's testers' personal shoe rotation; the Novablast 5 did, thanks to that excellent blend of comfort and versatility. We think you'll love it.
We could provide a laundry list of reasons why the Asics Novablast 5 is being honored as the best all-around running shoe, but we will sum it up in one word for brevity's sake: consistency. Lead tester Ally Arcuri notes that “the Novablast is a lightweight workhorse of a shoe that is suitable for nearly all running occasions.” Want to run a marathon and spend hours slow logging mileage on city streets? The Novablast has you covered. Want to ratchet up your speed and see how quickly you can get your legs moving? The Novablast is full of delightful, trampoline-inspired energy return.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Daily trainer
Sizes Available
5 - 12 US
regular, wide
Measured Heel Stack Height
40 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
9 mm
Plate Type
None
The comfort of the Novablast 5 makes it suitable for long-distance efforts, while its balanced responsiveness allows it to be a do-it-all piece of gear. We love this shoe so much because of the underfoot combination of these two elements. Compared with other running shoes, the Novablast earned one of the highest scores in comfort, placing it in line with some of the more maximally-minded shoes, but it rides more like a traditional running shoe. Only another Asics model — the Gel Kayano 31 scored as highly in our landing comfort metric, but the Novablast is a more all-around versatile shoe, while the Kayano is built for stability and recovery mileage. With a 40 mm stack in the heel and a 31 mm stack in the forefoot, the Novablast provides a lot of cushion between you and the pavement without feeling overdone. One tester described it in poetic terms, “…the Novablast 5 offers a luxurious edge to your endurance efforts.” The configuration and specified placement of the cushioning allows this shoe to be comfortable and peppy, hence our recommendation if you are looking for a well-balanced pair of road kicks.
Not only is the updated Novablast comfortable, but it also offers an uncommon versatility in the world of highly specific, high-performance road running shoes.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
It is not often that we find a shoe that can be considered nearly universal in its comfort and application, but the updated Novablast hits the mark. While no shoe is going to be perfect for every runner in every situation, the Novablast is versatile enough for runners of all kinds to consider. The only other shoe we tested that matches this level of all-around versatility is the Hoka Mach 6 — but the Novablast outperforms the Mach in all regards except for weight, as the Mach 6 weighs just 6.27 ounces per shoe, and the Novablast hits a more average weight of 7.30 ounces (in women's size 6.5). Specifically, we recommend the reconfigured Novablast to runners who are only looking to have one shoe in their collection. The Novablast is comfortable enough to carry you through your long, slow runs but doesn't skimp on responsiveness either. Ally specifically notes that it provides an “energizing push-off that efficiently propels you forward” and gives a boosted feeling to your faster workouts. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options and specifications available on the market today. If you want a single running shoe that will reliably get you through the long and slow runs, speedy track workouts, and that marathon you've had your eye on, this is the shoe we recommend.
Not too heavy and not too light, the Novablast strikes a great balance between being a protective powerhouse and an peppy pace pusher.
Credit: Laurel Morrow
Like many road-specific running shoes, the Novablast lacks the traction necessary for security on wet or slick surfaces. The traction pattern has been updated and is slightly better, though still not the most appropriate for wet occasions. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 has better grip, though not to the extent that a grippy trail running shoe would. Occasional jaunts in damp weather are totally doable in the Novablast, but if your running takes you across slick surfaces on the regular, a crossover trail shoe like the Hoka Torrent 4 might be a better match for you. But for most runners, and most runs, Ally thinks it's hard to go wrong with the Novablast 5, saying that “rookie runners, veterans, fitness junkies, and ultra-distance enthusiasts will all find something to love about this innovative running kick.” It is the shoe we reach for again and again for its versatility, comfort, and responsiveness in a variety of workouts.
From miles on the roads to measurements in the lab, the Novablast 5 proved itself an exceptionally versatile and high-performing shoe for virtually any runner.
In the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, Puma strikes a good balance of comfort, responsiveness, and versatility and slaps a wallet-friendly price tag on the whole package, making it our favorite budget-friendly pair to wear for men's road shoes. It has a respectable measured stack height of 38 mm and an 11 mm drop, and the midsole features lightweight NITRO foam that we love. The upper has been improved over the last version and is now a bit more breathable. While not the best in any specific metric — its higher weight and lack of stability knocked it down a few points in our testing — we still find this to be a do-it-all kind of shoe that we enjoy running in.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Daily Trainer
Sizes Available
7 - 14 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
38 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
11 mm
Plate Type
None
We love the stack composition that Puma put together in this shoe, from insole to out, with the grippy rubber, which is a refreshing surprise for a road shoe. The NITRO foam, which makes up the majority of the underfoot cushion in the Velocity Nitro 3, offers a satisfying bounce back after each footfall, with our lead tester Nathaniel Bailey describing it as having “a smooth landing, excellent impact mitigation, and good energy return.” We also appreciate the slight increase in stack height over the last version, which gives our joints some well-deserved cushion without feeling too sluggish. This is an above-average weight model, though, at 10.07 ounces per shoe (size 10.5). This extra weight includes both more cushioning and sticky PumaGrip rubber on the outsole, which tractions impressively well on a variety of slick surfaces — giving us confidence on wet, icy roads and trails with loose gravel. If saving some weight is important, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 uses a similar traction-oriented compound (PumaGrip ATR) and weighs 10.43 ounces per shoe.
When measuring toebox volume we found the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 to be about average, but on foot, it feels narrow relative to other options.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Velocity is a great all-around model. It has a thoughtful balance of cushion, energy return, and features, giving it the potential to fit right into most runners' shoe rotations as well as being a standalone trainer. If you aren't the type to splurge on footwear, it is versatile enough to be the only shoe you run in, taking you through a variety of training scenarios. It is great for tempo runs and fast-paced track workouts, though the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 offers a bit more responsiveness (using EnergyRods 2.0) at high speeds in an otherwise fairly comparable shoe. The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 also offers a bit more responsiveness with its carbon plates, though it isn't as comfortable. Nathaniel notes that the NITRO foam of the Velocity does a lot to “keep our legs fresh over 90+ minute efforts — we don't hesitate to pull these on for the long run.” It manages to pull all of this off without draining your bank account. If you are looking for a jack-of-all-trades shoe, this may be a good choice.
The upper of the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 is more breathable than the previous iteration of this shoe.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Although it scores above average in most metrics, the downside of versatility is that it doesn't excel in any one area. This is not a specialty shoe. It doesn't have the plush cushion of a maximalist model, it is not a low-slung stability shoe, and it doesn't have the snappy rebound of a race-oriented shoe. So, if you are looking to build out your rotation with condition-specific models, you may not find a niche for the Velocity Nitro 3 in your closet. However, none of these details are dealbreakers in our opinion — just things to consider. For not a ton more money (depending on how closely you watch Puma's sales), the Asics Novablast 4 is another excellent all-around one-stop shop of a shoe that our men's running team loves. At the end of the day, it's hard to go wrong with a shoe like the Velocity Nitro 3. If you are a runner on a budget who wants one model to get through whatever is on the training schedule for that day, our testing team says this budget-friendly model “will handle any run you throw at it.”
The Saucony Kinvara 15 is an ultra-lightweight shoe that is available for a slightly more digestible price tag than many other running shoes on the market today, which is why it earned our top recommendations for runners on a budget — again. Our male testers preferred the speed-forward Puma Velocity Nitro 3 as their budget pick, though the Kinvara 15 scored decently in their lineup, as well. Impressively, of our test fleet, only two racing shoes — the Nike Vaporfly 3 and Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris — were lighter, and not by much. Both these racing shoes lack the outstanding versatility of the Kinvara, and have hefty, hefty price tags attached to them. The Kinvara's slightly soft PWRRUN+ foam provides peppy energy return with a bit of outsole flexibility, giving it an organic-feeling ride that one tester described as “bouncy enough to provide some energy return and feedback without feeling like you're prancing on marshmallowy clouds.” The minimalistic design offers comfort where you need it without any extra fluff or technology. Be warned that the fit is slightly different than previous versions based on its recently updated upper and stack height increase, but the versatility and ease of use make this shoe one we recommend for budget-conscious runners needing a lightweight daily trainer.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Daily Trainer
Sizes Available
5 - 12 US,
regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
27 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
3 mm
Plate Type
None
The updated Saucony Kinvara is a lightweight superstar that is perfect for runners who don't want to fiddle with or even think about their shoes as they run. We find it to be one of the most comfortable and unintrusive-feeling kicks in our lineup, and while this might sound like a no-brainer, there are plenty of exceptional shoes on the market that require a bit of tongue-shifting or lace-tying in the field. The new upper is more traditional than versions past, which upped this shoe's comfort rating. This comfortable mesh and PWRRUN+ running shoe stays snug around your foot, making it a low-maintenance and affordable choice. If upper comfort is something you often struggle to dial in, the Hoka Mach 6 is a different option you should check out. It's a highly versatile shoe for not too much more than the Kinvara and features an upper with more cushioning and an inner layer that our testers described as “breathable, forgiving, and flexible.”
The updated Kinvara is a versatile road shoe that can make runners' feet and wallets happy.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Kinvara stands out as an ideal choice for runners seeking a lightweight shoe that is made for uptempo daily runs. This running shoe's impressive blend of versatility and affordability positions it as a compelling option for budget-conscious runners prioritizing high performance on the road. Its below-average weight of 5.44 ounces per women's size 6.5 shoe is nothing to sniff at either. Our testers love that the shoe strikes a comfortable middle ground between minimalism and energy. Though the 27 mm stack height is on the low end of today's spectrum, it provides better ground feel than most shoes. Our lead tester described running in these shoes as “riding a bit like the responsive shoes from a decade ago before all runners had access to super shoes.” With its peppy design and suitable features, the Kinvara caters to the dynamic needs of runners by providing a balanced and cost-effective solution for those looking for a running companion without breaking the bank.
For a budget buy, the Kinvara offers plenty of lovable features, making it an excellent do-it-all road running shoe.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The minimalistic structure of the Kinvara lacks the lateral support that some distance runners may covet. If this detracts from its appeal for you, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a significantly more supportive shoe that scores slightly higher across the board. Aside from a slightly narrow midfoot, the glorious legacy of the Kinvara lives on. If an affordable and peppy daily runner is what you are after, the levity and pep of the Kinvara will treat you and your wallet right.
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a perfect fit for runners training for their next PR. Not many shoes can carry you through both long runs on the pavement and fast intervals on the track. Yet the Endorphin Speed 4 does this with ease. The PWRRUN PB foam, a smooth rocker, and a nylon plate all work together to create an understated yet propulsive ride that lead tester, Nathaniel Bailey, says “works really well and will do so for a wide variety of runners and use cases.” Saucony completely reworked the upper of with this version, and it's massively improved. The heel counter is less high and stiff, and the forefoot is slightly narrower to better accommodate runners with narrow-to-normal-width feet while offering enough space to accommodate runners with higher-volume feet.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Daily Trainer
Sizes Available
7-15 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
38 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
11 mm
Plate Type
Nylon
The best part of the Endorphin Speed 4 is its balance between performance and comfort. No other shoe in our lineup scored as evenly in both areas. That balance is essential to its versatility, and while it isn't a super shoe, it's still pretty quick. It could work as a race shoe for many runners, especially those looking for a more stable and approachable ride. If you want to level up for your racing shoe, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is a similar shoe with a carbon plate (rather than the nylon plate of the Endorphin Speed) and extra pep — but also costs a good chunk more. Still, the Endorphin Speed is no ordinary workout shoe — our testers have found it plenty comfortable for races as well as 90+ minute efforts on the road. If you want a little more comfort in your next daily trainer and are willing to sacrifice a small amount of speed, we strongly recommend the impressively speedy, non-plated New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4.
The Endorphin Speed 4 thrives on faster runs, but also has plenty of cushioning for long, easy efforts.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
We think most runners will get along with the Endorphin Speed 4, but it's best suited to those who are chasing a PR with regular tempos, workouts, or strides. The combination of the Speedroll rocker, PWRRUN PB foam, nylon plate, and the overall lightweight package suggest this shoe is best at faster paces. We think that's true, but the comfort and flexibility of the shoe make it a decent choice for everyday runs. Runners who only rarely try to push the pace will probably be best served by a shoe more optimized for comfort. However, the versatility of this shoe makes it a good choice in either a one-shoe rotation or as an uptempo option for faster runs. If you value comfortable speed, the Endorphin Speed 4 is aptly named.
We've tested the Speed 4 both on the roads and in the lab, and strongly recommend it.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our biggest issue with the shoe is the price — this much for a daily trainer isn't cheap. That said, no other shoe outperforms the Endorphin Speed 4 when it comes to responsiveness without costing even more. Additionally, this shoe has proven itself to be quite durable. Our lead tester has over 175 miles on his pair, and it still feels fresh and is in good condition. It's stayed in his lineup for days when he isn't testing other shoes. Truly, if you're after the best balance of speed and comfort we've found in a daily trainer, there's no shoe we recommend more than the Endorphin Speed 4.
Shoes don't tend to excel when endeavoring to balance responsiveness and comfort. However, with a springy, full-length plastic plate built into its 27 mm forefoot and 35 mm heel stack, the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 offers a smooth and cushioned ride, even on long runs. Lead tester Ally Arcuri described these shoes as “potentially the best thing that Brooks has going on right now.” While the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris and the Nike Alphafly outscore the Hyperion in responsiveness, they are both race-focused and lack the versatility of a daily runner.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Max-Cushion
Sizes Available
5 - 12 US,
regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
35 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
8 mm
Plate Type
Full length plastic
The plastic plate impedes some of the plush cushioning found in other high-stack models, but the Hyperion's firmer midsole ensures excellent energy return. If quick leg turnover is your focus, you'll appreciate the same qualities we do in this version of the Hyperion. With an 8 mm drop, it blends speed and comfort seamlessly, offering surprising stability that our testing team dubbed “a speed shoe that doesn't feel tippy.” Stability is not a common attribute of propulsive shoes, making the stability of the Hyperion even more impressive. While it's not built for overpronation correction, the shoe feels secure on the foot, solidifying its reputation as a standout for mid-distance races.
All of the elements of the Hyperion come together to create a shoe that is perfect for running seeking to strike a balance between comfort and speed.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Runners who don't want to buy a collection of shoes should consider the Hyperion. This shoe offers enough comfort for daily runs but delivers a powerful pop for track workouts, racing, and uptempo runs. The Saucony Endorphine Speed 4 is another shoe we could recommend, with similar comfort and responsiveness at speed and a similar price point. The Endorphin Speed has better traction but weighs slightly more than the Hyperion (6.86 ounces vs. 7.17 ounces per women's 6.5 shoe) and is noticeably less stable. We think the Hyperion is a better overall shoe, and while it's not the most budget-friendly buy, the Hyperion is notably less expensive than some of the super shoes we've tested this season — and far more versatile. Runners who are interested in PRing in a do-it-all kind of daily trainer will love the DNA Flash V2 midsole, breathable upper, and energetic ride of the Hyperion.
The Hyperion isn't the least expensive shoe around, but its performance features help make it a great value.
Credit: Prudence Amsden
The Hyperion doesn't offer the best traction, making it less suitable as a crossover shoe or in inclement conditions. It can handle the mildest of dirt paths but feels more at home on the tracks and dry roads. If you need more traction without losing comfort or speed, the heavyweight, plated Hoka Skyward X could be more your jam. At the end of the day, the Hyperion Max is awesome for runners who want some propulsion without committing to a full-on super shoe. One tester described this shoe as “perfect workhorse for runners who want to see an uptick in their paces while executing their run in a shoe that feels comfortable underfoot.” If comfort is king and speed is on the list of priorities, the Hyperion is one of our top recommendations.
When race day finally comes, our men's testing team agrees that the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris is their top choice. Thanks to a highly resilient slab of FF Turbo Plus foam, a carbon plate, a smooth 24.5-degree rocker, and a natural feeling ride, we think this is not only one of the fastest but also one of the most versatile super shoes on the market. Lead tester Nathaniel Bailey describes the Metaspeed Sky as “a shoe that is fast and snappy off the forefoot, yet comfortable.” Sure, it's optimized for the marathon, but we recommend it for anything down to a road mile. We've even used it for time trials on the track with great results. This versatility in a race shoe is uncommon, and even the other high-performing race shoes we've tested, like the Nike Vaporfly 3, suffer a drop in their performance at more modest speeds.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Race Shoe
Sizes Available
3.5-13 US, regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
39 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
Plate Type
Carbon
We've run in a lot of super shoes. None have been faster than this one. That's partly thanks to the extremely low overall weight. In our lab, our US men's 10.5 tipped the scales at a scant 6.85 ounces per shoe! The next closest shoe we've tested has been the Vaporfly 3, which was 7.24 ounces. That difference may not sound like a lot, but it is huge, particularly when you consider that both shoes have 39 mm of foam at the heel, and the Asics has more under the forefoot (33 mm vs 28 mm). At race speeds, grams matter.
The Metaspeed Sky Paris combines an incredibly lightweight build, top-notch cushioning, and a smooth, natural geometry. The result is the best race shoe we've ever worn.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
The Metaspeed Sky Paris is an excellent shoe for chasing fast times. Its carbon plate adds snap, but perhaps most importantly, its geometry is versatile. So, while each runner responds differently to shoes, we found that the overall design of this shoe makes it easier to take advantage of a wider variety of foot morphology and strike patterns. This is in contrast to other racing shoes we've tested, like the Nike Alphafly 3, which we found requires some time to learn how to best take advantage of (and still doesn't work for every runner). This makes the Metaspeed Sky Paris an excellent option for most serious runners who race regularly. Our testers noted that it's one of the better options “for runners who prefer a natural feeling to their race shoes.” The shoe is aggressive, but the rocker feels smoother off the forefoot, and the landing transitions are more comfortable than those of other super shoes. Finding a rhythm during long, hard efforts is easy in this shoe.
We think relatively flat carbon plate works with the geometry to create the most smooth ride we've experienced in a fast super shoe.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Like any super shoe, the Metaspeed Sky Paris isn't designed for easy days. Its cushioning is most comfortable and stable at efforts of marathon pace or faster. Runners who want many of the benefits of a super shoe but would rather sacrifice a little weight and speed for increased comfort will likely prefer the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4. That shoe took top marks among race shoes for stability, upper comfort, and traction thanks to its wider base and upper and full coverage rubber outsole — it just isn't quite as fast. Really, the only downside to the Metaspeed Sky is that it lacks traction on wet surfaces and around bends — which is another thing the FuelCell SuperComp Elite excels at. Those minor caveats aside, for nearly any runner looking for the best super shoe for racing, it's the Metaspeed Sky Paris we recommend.
The Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris impressed our testers by providing powerful responsiveness with a side of comfort and stability. While clearly a super shoe made for racing, this 5.10-ounce shoe (women's size 6.5) has a 6 mm drop, a full-length carbon fiber plate, and a natural-feeling 26.5-degree rocker angle, beginning at an aggressive-yet-comfortable 68.0% of the distance forward from the heel. These pieces coalesce beautifully to create a primed racing machine that “feels more natural than its competitors,” explosively powerful, yet still remains comfortable over long distances. No other super shoe we've tested offers this even of a blend of traits across the board, and this easily became our go-to racing choice.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Racing
Sizes Available
5 - 14.5 US,
regular
Measured Heel Stack Height
38 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
Plate Type
Carbon
As with many of our award-winning shoes, the magic exists in the combination of elements when it comes to the Metaspeed Sky, but its responsiveness is next level. One of our highest-scoring shoes in this metric, the rocker apex location, angle, and geometry combine with the carbon plate for noticeable energy return. Our testing team remarked that “the nimble ride [the Novablast] provides is unlike other racing shoes we've tested.” The heel stack is 38 mm, and the forefoot is 32 mm, creating an FF Turbo Plus launchpad that offers just enough cushion for comfort during uptempo running. The design of this shoe allows each footfall to roll seamlessly into the next, allowing runners to fully engage their natural gait patterns for exceptional running economy. For those looking for the most responsive shoe around, the Nike Alphafly 3 is that shoe. It involves more of a learning curve to take full advantage — and not everyone's mechanics are conducive to this shoe — and takes a hit in comfort and stability, but is the fastest shoe we've tested.
The rocker apex location and angle help to make the Metaspeed one of the more neutral-feeling super shoes we've tested.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Runners who want a speed shoe that will provide some stability and comfort will feel right at home in the Metaspeed. This isn't going to be a daily trainer that you'll reach for on recovery run days, but it will treat you well when your runs demand a bit more speed. If you are looking for a daily trainer that dips a toe in the world of racing, the carbon-plated Puma Deviate Nitro 3 strikes a good balance of comfort and responsiveness at more speeds — and costs a lot less. But for those in search of a super shoe that offers a classic pop pop pop with each stride, you'll be in luck with the Metaspeed. The power that this shoe holds is serious, making it less suitable for runners who may want to simply try out a quicker shoe. Especially considering the price, the Metaspeed is best suited for runners who know they want a speedy shoe for race day.
The powerful propulsion, breathability, and comfort of the Metaspeed Sky Paris make it our female testers' favorite race-ready road shoe.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Super shoes are here to stay, and while our female testers fell in love with the Metaspeed, they are far from the only option available on the market today. The Nike Vaporfly 3 is an equally responsive racing shoe that offers a slightly different fit but lacks the stability of the Metaspeed. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a more user-friendly (and more wallet-friendly), speed-centric daily trainer. The Endorphin Speed provides strong responsiveness, a nylon plate that is slightly less intense underfoot, and a lockdown that will keep you comfortable through high-mileage days. But if you're looking for the best all-around racing shoe that our entire testing team — men and women, both — agree on, it's this one. Lead tester Ally Arcuri remarked that “it won't be a magic bullet to Olympic-level speed, and its fit can't Sisterhood-of-the-Traveling-Pants its way into fitting all feet, but it is as close to a universal racing shoe as we have seen.”
This almost impossibly light racing shoe is easier to tap into its power than most super shoes, providing a very fast ride that our speed-chasers adore.
Credit: The GearLab Team
How We Test Running Shoes
Our primary focus in testing running shoes is to run in them… a lot. Our male and female testers log many dozens of miles in each pair of shoes and choose various terrain types to include in their routes. Collectively, our expert running shoe test team members have logged thousands of miles in close to 500 pairs of running shoes and counting. When testing running shoes, we pay close attention to underfoot and upper comfort, stability, cushion, traction, and weight. In addition to running miles and miles in each shoe, we also buy a second pair of each shoe to perform a series of tests in our lab. These lab tests include cutting each shoe in half so we can precisely measure stack heights and heel-to-toe drop, rocker angle, weight, and more. Rather than trusting the manufacturer's measurements, we make all of our own measurements, so every specification we share is collected in a careful apples-to-apples manner. Our lab testing is then combined with our primary focus on running in each shoe to create a complete 360 analysis of each shoe.
A peek inside our running shoe test lab.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Why Trust GearLab
Our main testers for this review include a collection of devoted runners with expertise in the sport, and most have spent years running and testing footwear for the GearLab team. Ally Arcuri is an avid runner and exercise specialist with a Cal State Fullerton kinesiology degree that helps her evaluate women's trail and road shoes from a biomechanical perspective. Nathaniel Bailey is the lead tester for our men's road shoe review. He competed in track and cross country from middle school through college and now continues to race on the roads and coach high school and recreational runners. Matthew Richardson is our current men's trail shoe expert, exploring as many trails in SW Colorado as he can. Specializing in computer mapping, he also does the testing for our GPS watch review, which helps create and explore new trail runs as he tests shoes. World-class runner Carrie Vickers has an impressive resume of Olympic trial rankings, World Championship qualifications, and for a time held the record in the 2000 meter steeplechase. She is now a professional running biomechanics consultant who has helped to inform our testing plans and adds advice to those trying to find the right shoes for their bodies and goals in a sea of shoes.
When to Replace Your Running Shoes
The general recommendation is to replace your running shoes every 300-500 miles. Telltale signs from your body that you need new shoes include getting hotspots or blisters you didn't have before and feeling more achy after your long runs. You can also check out the wear on the shoes themselves. The shoe is probably ready to retire if it shows signs of excessive wear where there used to be tread.
Not only do we put each shoe through rugged field testing, but we closely examine every pair to confirm manufacturer claims and to get a better idea of how construction translates into performance.
We're always running - but never running out of ways to test these shoes.
We've logged thousands of miles and measured the inner workings of hundreds of pairs of shoes to help you find the best pair for your running goals.
How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for You
In this section, our expert shoe testers will walk you through a process to help you find the best shoe for your needs, whether you're a brand-new runner who wants to start on the right foot or a long-time runner looking for a new pair. We'll start by explaining how to assess a shoe's fit. Then, we'll consider how you plan to use the shoe. Finally, we'll delve into the different features you may want to consider.
Once you determine the type of running you'll be doing, you can narrow down your search to include only shoes that will help you accomplish your goals.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
The Importance of Fit
Fit is the most important factor to consider when buying a pair of running shoes. At the end of the day, the shoe that feels the most comfortable is the right shoe for you. If a shoe doesn't feel good, move on. There is even science-backed evidence that wearing more comfortable running shoes is associated with better running economy.
When you're trying on a shoe, ask yourself a few key questions:
Does the heel feel comfortable under your foot?
Does the forefoot feel comfortable under your foot?
Does the shoe feel stable to you?
Does the shoe feel comfortable overall, including how it holds the top of your foot?
Does the front of the shoe feel flexible to you?
Components of Comfort and Fit
Stack Height
Midsole Material
Overall Fit
Overall Comfort
Asics Novablast 5 (men's)
41 mm
FF Blast Max
True to size
1
2
3
4
5
Asics Novablast 5 (women's)
40 mm
FF Blast Max
Slightly narrow
1
2
3
4
5
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
38 mm
PWRRUN PB
True to size
1
2
3
4
5
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
35 mm
DNA Flash v2
True to size
1
2
3
4
5
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris (men's)
39 mm
FF Turbo Plus
Runs quite narrow
1
2
3
4
5
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris (women's)
38 mm
FF Turbo Plus
True to size
1
2
3
4
5
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
38 mm
NITROFOAM
Slightly narrow
1
2
3
4
5
Saucony Kinvara 15
27 mm
PWRRUN
Slightly narrow
1
2
3
4
5
You will find that sizing isn't always consistent across brands. Some run large, and some run small. Some brands, like Puma and Hoka, are known for having narrow-fitting shoes, while others, like Altra and Topo Athletic, tend to have wide and roomy toe boxes. Because each model has a slightly different profile, we recommend purchasing shoes from a location where you can try them on first or going through a website with a good return policy. Several running shoe brands offer 30-90-day trials of their shoes with free returns as well.
We take measurements of width, length, and toebox volume to help you determine the best fit for your foot type.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Try on shoes at the time of day you would normally run, and wear your favorite running socks. Take them for a quick spin, and always try on both shoes (most people's feet are not the same size). Over time, you will likely dial in your preferences for everything from width to lacing patterns.
Gender-Specific Shoes
Manufacturers often make specific versions of their shoes for men and women, and you may wonder how different they can be. Is it worth seeking out a male or female-specific shoe? The answer is maybe. Shoes designed for women are not always just a smaller version of their men's counterparts. There are a few important design differences made to accommodate the varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs of men and women.
To start, the average woman is smaller and lighter than the average male, and women's shoes may have a softer midsole with a lighter wearer in mind. On average, men's shoes are wider than women's. However, women's shoes differ in the proportional width, generally featuring a narrower heel cup to help secure the back of the foot and a roomier forefoot to allow toes to splay naturally.
So, yes, there are differences, but you should never feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. At the end of the day, the best shoe is the one that is most comfortable for you.
Some shoe models have slight variations between the men's and women's versions.
Credit: GearLab Staff
Men's Running Shoes
Our lead tester for men's running shoes put each model through its paces in long runs, recovery runs, fast workouts, and hill sprints. Below are the scores outlined for our men's road running shoes review with some of the best, most promising, and most popular options available today.
Key Metric Scores of Men's Road Running Shoes
Product
Landing Comfort
Responsiveness
Upper Comfort
Weight
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris
8.8
9.7
5
10
Nike Alphafly 3
8.8
9.4
6.5
8.4
Nike Vaporfly 3
8.6
9.5
5
9.4
Mizuno Neo Vista
8.75
7.5
9.5
5.4
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
8.5
7.5
6
8.4
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
8
8
7.5
6.8
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
7.8
9
5.5
7.9
Asics Superblast 2
8.5
7.7
7.8
6.2
Asics Novablast 5
8.7
6.9
8
6.3
On Cloudsurfer
8.1
6.5
8.5
6.7
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4
8.1
8.7
6
6.2
Saucony Kinvara 15
5
7
6.5
9.4
Saucony Tempus 2
7.4
7.2
6
6.8
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
8
7
7
5.3
Adidas Adizero SL2
8
7.4
5.5
6.4
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
7
7
7
6
Hoka Mach 6
7
7.4
4.5
7.3
Hoka Skyward X
10
4.5
8
2.5
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
6
6.5
7
5.5
Altra Vanish Tempo
6.5
7.25
5
6.2
New Balance FuelCell Propel v5
7.5
6
6.5
4.7
Puma Deviate Nitro 3
7.3
7.2
5
5
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
9
3
9
3.4
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
9.2
4.5
8
2.5
Adidas Adizero Boston 12
8
7.7
3
5.5
Saucony Triumph 22
9.1
3
8.7
3.1
Hoka Clifton 9
7
5
5.5
5.5
Altra Torin 7
6
5.5
5.3
6
Asics Gel-Kayano 31
7.4
4.5
7.5
3
Asics Gel-Contend 9
5
5
5.5
5.3
Brooks Ghost 16
5
3.5
7.25
5
Brooks Trace 3
4
5
5.5
5.7
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
4
4.5
2
5.6
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
1
5
4
3.6
Our full men's road shoe lineup and each pair's performance across four of our six test metrics.
Women's Running Shoes
Similarly, our lead women's tester put each shoe through the wringer, totaling a minimum of 30 miles in each pair and testing them out in various workouts and environments. All models from our women's road running shoes review are ranked below, showing our four most heavily weighted test metrics and each pair's score.
Key Metric Scores of Women's Road Running Shoes
Product
Landing Comfort
Responsiveness
Upper Comfort
Weight
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris
8
9
6.5
9.8
Nike Alphafly 3
8.5
10
6
8.6
Nike Vaporfly 3
7
9.5
5
10
Saucony Kinvara 15
7.5
7.5
6.5
9.1
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4
7.5
9
7
6.7
Hoka Mach 6
8
7
7.5
7.5
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
8
8
7.5
6.4
Asics Novablast 5
9
7
8
5.6
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
7
7.5
7
8
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
7
8.5
6
7.8
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
7.5
8
8
5.8
Altra Vanish Tempo
7.5
7
8
5.6
ON Cloudsurfer
8
6
6.5
7.1
Altra Experience Flow
8
6
7
6.5
Puma Deviate Nitro 3
7.5
7.5
6.5
5.7
Mizuno Neo Vista
8.5
7
6
5.6
Hoka Clifton 9
8
5.5
7
5.8
Hoka Skyward X
8.5
7.5
7
2.8
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
9
6
7.5
3.1
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
7.5
6.5
7.5
4
Brooks Trace 3
7
4
8
5.8
Brooks Ghost 16
7.5
5
7.5
4.8
Saucony Tempus 2
7
6.5
6
5
Asics Gel-Kayano 31
9
4
8
3.3
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
6
5.5
6.5
6.3
Reebok Floatride Energy 6
7
5.5
6
5.2
Asics Gel-Contend 9
6
5
7
5.6
Adidas Supernova Rise
7
6.5
7
2.9
Altra Torin 7
7.5
5
5
5.7
Lululemon Blissfeel 2
7
6.5
7
2.6
Brooks Glycerin 21
6.5
4
7.5
4.4
Rabbit Dream Chaser
8
5
6.5
2.5
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
6.5
4.5
7
4
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
9
3
6.5
2.9
Here's how our current women's road shoe lineup performed in 4 of our 6 testing metrics.
Where Will You Use the Shoe?
Start by thinking about where you run. Are you sticking to the pavement? Venturing into the mountains on rocky paths? Spending a lot of time on the treadmill?
Our testing teams do their best to make recommendations based on gait, gender, foot morphology, and running goals, but ultimately, you should choose a shoe that feels good to you.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
When to Consider Trail Shoes
If your plan is to take your pair of running shoes offroad, onto uneven, rocky, or steep ground, trail shoes are a good fit for you. If not, skip down to the next section on road shoes.
Trail running shoes have a more protective build, making them better suited for technical and rocky trails. Aggressive tread provides greater traction, features like rock plates help to protect your feet from underfoot hazards, and denser midsole foam and lower stack heights help keep you grounded and stable on uneven terrain. If you are lucky enough to have access to a great trail network that you'd love to take advantage of, our review of the best trail running shoes can help you find the perfect model for your needs.
If your runs will frequently take you off the pavement or track, consider getting a trail running shoe instead.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
When to Consider Road Shoes
If your running plan involves pavement, gravel bike paths, dirt roads, or a treadmill, you probably don't need the additional features of trail shoes, and a pair of road shoes is a better choice. Road shoes tend to have more plush underfoot cushioning, more breathable uppers, and often have less grippy outsole rubber. All of that makes them lighter on average. These shoes are built for the pavement-pounders out there and have features to help insulate you from hard man-made surfaces mile after mile.
Max-cushioning shoes can be a joint-saver over long miles on hard pavement - though you often pay for it in speed and weight.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
How Will You Use the Shoe?
Next, think about the duration of your runs. Are you going for a 20-minute jog around the neighborhood, or are you logging lots of miles training for a marathon? Finally, assess the types of runs you'll be doing. Are you running mostly easy, feel-good paces? Are you tackling HIIT-style workouts? Do your long runs have chunks of marathon-paced efforts in them?
Like a tool, running shoes are designed to help you accomplish a specific task. Some are designed to keep you incredibly comfortable on long efforts, while others are designed to be fast at the expense of comfort. If you plan to use a shoe for jogging and easy running, you'll likely care more about comfort-focused features. If you plan to use the shoe for faster efforts and workouts, you'll probably want a shoe with higher responsiveness and lower weight. Next, we'll help you identify features essential to your planned use case.
Zero drop shoes are one subcategory of running shoes that work really well for some runners. When your heels are riding at the same height as your forefoot, you calf muscles are put on stretch, which is dreamy and powerful for some runners and tedious and uncomfortable for others.
The trail running shoes in our lineup get put to the test on the trails, traversing rocks, logs, steep inclines, and other obstacles.
Trail running shoes offer more protection than road shoes since you're more likely to stub your toe on a rock or stump in the backcountry than in your paved neighborhood. Trail shoes also feature longer lugs and grippier outsoles to provide traction on unsteady surfaces.
From road, to trail, to lab, we test each shoe in a variety of situations to get a complete picture of performance.
Midsole Features
The midsole is the most important part of any road running shoe. The materials, level of cushioning, and flexibility will help you determine if a shoe is right for you. We use terms like stack height, heel-toe drop, and rocker angle to describe these features; what do they all mean?
Stack height refers to the thickness of the cushioning in a shoe. While there is no strict industry standard for this measurement, we use a standardized method to compare the shoes we test and include the total amount of material between the bottom of your foot and the ground, including the insole/sockliner, midsole, and outsole. Stack height can play a big part in how the shoe feels underfoot, and while stack height does not strictly correspond to comfort or cushiness, it is a good place to start when narrowing down your options. Taller stack heights usually offer a more insulated ride, and lower stack heights tend to provide more sensitivity and a better ground feel.
We cut each shoe in half to measure stack height and examine inner materials.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-toe drop is the difference in height from the heel of a shoe to the toe. Different runners will find different drop heights optimal for their running mechanics.
Stack height and heel-to-toe drop are two important measurements that can change the way a shoe feels underfoot.
At a basic level, the higher the drop, the higher the running load is shifted in your legs. We'd expect to see more loading of the knees and hips in a shoe with 10 mm of drop than in a shoe with 4 mm. In the lower drop shoe, the load will be more concentrated around the lower leg, at the ankles and calves.
You may have heard that high-drop shoes or zero-drop shoes cause or prevent injury. There is currently no evidence to support those claims. What can cause injury is a rapid transition from one shoe style to another. If you've been running in a higher-drop shoe, suddenly transitioning to a zero-drop shoe can cause injury and vice-versa.
As with everything in running, ensuring you aren't doing too much of something too quickly is vital. Ease into new things and let your body adapt.
Here is an example of a zero-drop shoe, meaning that the heel and forefoot are the exact same height. Zero-drop shoes encourage stability and rear-chain activation, but this does not mean that they are the right choice for all anatomies.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Rocker angle refers to the geometry of a shoe that encourages your foot to “rock” forward. An upward curve at the toe end (or sometimes under the heel) of the bottom of the shoe can help facilitate the natural motion of your ankle and forefoot, aiding your running efficiency. A steeper rocker angle at the forefoot can provide a more aggressive feeling, but may feel unnatural to some runners. You find a rocker geometry most often in two types of shoes. First, in shoes meant to go fast. These uptempo daily trainers or race shoes will utilize rockers to help you carry your speed efficiently. Second, in shoes that are very stiff due to lots of midsole foam. Since bending the shoe at the forefoot is harder, a rocker is added to help you out.
The rocker angle of a running shoe can affect the amount of forward momentum and response you feel in each step.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Carbon fiber and nylon plates have become very popular in both race shoes and in daily trainers. Contrary to popular belief, plates do not provide a spring-like propulsive benefit. Research has proven that the plate alone is not what makes modern race shoes fast. However, they can interact with the midsole foam and rocker geometry to create a shoe that increases your running performance. Some daily trainers also utilize plates for the same reason. But again, just because a shoe has a plate does not mean it is fast. Some daily trainers have plates and are not fast shoes. Aside from a few exceptions, trail shoes are not typically equipped with propulsive plates. On the other hand, many trail shoes include rock plates made of similar materials that can provide additional underfoot protection from sharp rocks and other trail features.
Certain types of midsole plates are designed to be springy and add propulsion, while others add stability or protection.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How Do Midsole Foams Affect a Shoe?
We classify shoes with moderate (under ~40 mm) stack height as daily trainers and shoes over that as max-cushioning. There are also other minimalist options, including barefoot shoes, which provide next to no underfoot cushion and may have a “stack height” as low as 3 mm, although we don't recommend them for the vast majority of runners. While stack height can tell you a lot about a shoe, it isn't the whole picture.
Our reviewers often refer to shoes as bouncy, resilient, plush, soft, or firm. That's because the foam that makes up the midsole has a huge effect on how a shoe feels and performs. In fact, research has shown different midsole foams can drastically affect a runner's efficiency and performance.
Midsole Characteristics
Stack Height
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Rocker Angle
Plate
Asics Novablast 5 (men's)
41 mm
5 mm
25.0 deg
✖
Asics Novablast 5 (women's)
40 mm
9 mm
26.5 deg
✖
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
38 mm
11 mm
25.0 deg
Nylon
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
35 mm
8 mm
24.5 deg
Full length plastic
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris (men's)
39 mm
6 mm
24.5 deg
Carbon
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris (women's)
38 mm
6 mm
26.5 deg
Carbon
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
38 mm
11 mm
18.0 deg
✖
Saucony Kinvara 15
27 mm
3 mm
25.0 deg
✖
The specific formula of a foam plays a much larger role in how a shoe feels than the stack height alone. For example, a maximally cushioned shoe with over 45 mm of stack height won't necessarily feel pillowy underfoot. It may feel firm thanks to a foam that doesn't compress much or has little energy return, also known as resilience. Similarly, a lower stack shoe can feel both pillowy and bouncy if it has a foam that is highly compressible and resilient.
So, how do you know what to look for? Think back to your use case, and consider the sensations you prefer underfoot when reading our reviews. If you're looking for a shoe to run many different paces in, you'll probably want a shoe with good resilience. If you want a higher stack height but don't want to feel like you're running on clouds, look for shoes with a firmer or less compressible midsole foam. If you value flexibility, you'll probably want a lower stack height, as shoes with higher stacks tend to be stiffer.
Daily trainers balance comfort and responsiveness to create a versatile running shoe. Exactly where they fall in that spectrum helps determine what sort of runner would find them the most helpful.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
How Much Support Do You Need?
Support and stability differ from shoe to shoe and are influenced by geometry, base width, foam density, and sometimes added internal stability structures. You'll often see shoes categorized as neutral or stability shoes; almost all of the shoes we test fall within the neutral category, with a few models offering extra stability features.
That's because neutral shoes are appropriate for MOST runners, including beginners.
It's still common for well-meaning people to prescribe a stability shoe based on your foot type or gait pattern to “prevent injury.” However, that advice is outdated. Unless you have an already-existing injury, research shows that stability shoes do not change your risk of injury.
Some shoes have an extra stable base that can help you feel more confident and supported on your runs.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Rotating Shoes and Injury Risk
We recommend running in a rotation of shoes with varying stack heights, stability, and geometries. That's because research has shown running in a rotation of two to three different shoes is far more effective at injury prevention than wearing stability or motion-control shoes.
Because of this, we recommend you try on various shoes with varying levels of stability. Choose the one (or two or three) most comfortable, and start running! Follow a safe progression, and you should be good to go. If you run into issues, consider seeking the advice of a running-focused physical therapist.
Finding the perfect fit can make the difference between a great workout and a run cut short due to blisters, hot spots, or other discomfort.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Conclusion
Running is a centuries-old practice that has many mental and physical health benefits, whether you are brand new to the sport, or training for your next ultramarathon. The right pair of shoes is essential to keep you on your feet and on the move, but with the abundance of choices in today's market, it is necessary to do the research before committing to a pair. Luckily, we have researched and tested hundreds of models to find the ins and outs of each pair, and we hope that this list of our favorites will help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and running goals.
We've also tested plenty of other helpful running gear, no matter what your running goals are. Our team has put a plethora of GPS watches to the test to bring you evidence-backed comparisons and recommendations. We've got intel on the barefoot running scene, and if you're hitting the trails, we've also tested trail running shoes.
