Running shoes

Overview: What types of running shoes are there?

Running shoes aren’t one-size-fits-all. The right model depends on your gait, training goals, and terrain. Here’s a quick tour of the key categories to help you choose with confidence.

Neutral vs. stability

The biggest split is between neutral shoes and stability shoes.

Neutral models suit runners with a balanced foot strike who don’t collapse markedly inward or outward. They feel natural, flexible, and are the most common choice.

Stability models add guidance elements that reduce excessive overpronation—the foot rolling inward. See our guide: Foot pronation explained.

Cushioning & ride

Cushioning tech ranges from plush and protective to firm and snappy:

• Soft & cushy for long, easy miles.
• More direct for ground feel and control.
• Responsive foams and plates for a lively toe-off.

Pick the mix of comfort and energy return that matches your runs.

Surfaces: road, trail & track

Most running shoes are tuned for road and paths—ample cushioning and grip for asphalt, gravel, and park loops. If you hit the woods regularly, switch to dedicated trail shoes with aggressive lugs and protection. Chasing fast times on the track? Spikes deliver maximum traction.

Special features: waterproof & more

Waterproof running shoes keep feet dry in rain and slush thanks to membranes or treated uppers—great for year-round outdoor mileage. You’ll also find reflective details for low-light safety and highly breathable meshes for summer heat.

Price range & budget

Today’s market spans from budget-friendly trainers to high-end tech. Higher price doesn’t automatically mean “better”—often it means lighter, bouncier, or more specialized. For many runners, mid-range models strike the best balance of comfort, durability, and value.

Want a deal without compromising quality? Our running shoes sale features discounted end-of-line and prior-season models (and sizes in limited stock)—all genuine products at sharp prices.

It’s also perfect for adding a second or third pair to your rotation—say, a cushioned long-run shoe, a lighter option for speed work, or a waterproof pair for winter.

Fit: size & feel

Great runs start with great fit. A poor fit can cause blisters, pressure points, and soreness—so take a moment to get this right.

Leave a little toe room

Aim for about 0.5 to 1 cm between your longest toe and the front. Feet swell during runs—especially on long distances—so this buffer protects your toes and the shoe materials.

Last shapes for women & men

Shoe shapes (lasts) often differ by gender. Women’s shoes are typically narrower at the heel with a roomier forefoot, while men’s shoes are generally wider overall.

Heel hold & forefoot width

Your heel should be secure with no slip, and your toes should have space to move. Brands and models vary—trying a couple of fits pays off.

Try with running socks

Always test shoes with the running socks you’ll use for training. Some socks are thinner and airy; others add targeted padding. Both change the fit, so test with your usual pair.

Best time to try on

Try on shoes in the afternoon or evening when feet are a bit swollen—similar to post-run conditions—so your size choice holds up under load.

The best running shoes of 2025

There’s no single “best” shoe for everyone. The right pick depends on your gait (neutral or pronation), body weight, terrain, training frequency, and preferred feel. Our top five are well-proven, low-risk recommendations that work for a wide range of runners.

For deeper tests and comparisons, check our Running Blog where we cover new releases and buyer’s guides.

1. adidas Supernova Rise 2

Dreamstrike+ foam delivers a smooth yet lively ride. Dialed comfort for daily miles with a planted feel—without traditional posts. A modern, versatile update for neutral runners.

2. Nike Pegasus 41

The classic all-rounder. New ReactX foam boosts cushioning and energy return. Flexible for easy runs, stable for steady days, light enough for uptempo. A safe one-shoe quiver.

3. ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 (Overpronation pick)

Premium guidance via 4D Guidance System with PureGEL and FF BLAST+ cushioning. Softer upper with secure hold and an 8 mm drop keeps the ride stable yet comfortable for long days.

4. adidas Duramo Speed 2 (Value pick)

Lightstrike cushioning keeps things comfy and light. Outstanding blend of damping, stability, and durability for the price—great for beginners or as a rotation workhorse.

5. Brooks Ghost 16

A fuss-free staple for neutral runners. DNA LOFT v3 feels soft without wobble, with a smooth transition across paces. Ideal when you just want to lace up and go.

Buyer’s tip from our Buyer Jan

Jan is a passionate runner who tests every shoe we carry. With nearly 20 years in the sporting goods industry, he only buys models he personally stands behind.

Jan Mönch

Running Point Buyer

“The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is a race shoe that does much more and still feels ‘comfortably sporty’ on daily runs. Soft, pleasant cushioning with a plate for a smooth roll. A comfortable fit thanks to soft mesh and a padded heel. The lightly lugged outsole grips well off asphalt and on wet surfaces. You can run it fast if you want— but you don’t have to.”

Second pair & rotation

Modern foams act like springs and need time to recover. If you run most days, rotating pairs helps cushioning rebound and extends shoe life.

Rotation also varies the load on feet and legs, which can reduce injury risk and keep your stride balanced. Many runners use a cushioned daily trainer plus a quicker shoe for intervals or tempo work. Racing? Add a dedicated racing shoe so your trainers stay fresh.

Durability & care

Lifespan depends on body weight, gait, terrain, and model. As a rule of thumb, expect 600–1,000 km per pair. When cushioning feels flat or outsoles look worn, it’s time to replace—especially if post-run niggles creep in.

• Air them out: Dry in a ventilated spot; avoid heaters and direct sun.
• Dry faster: Stuff with newspaper and replace after a few hours.
• Hand clean: Brush off dirt with water; skip harsh cleaners and the washing machine.
• Save them for runs: Everyday wear shortens their life.

Running shoes in the gym & other sports

Running shoes are built for forward motion: cushioned, flexible, and often narrower. Perfect for treadmills, roads, and paths—but limited elsewhere.

In the gym or sports with many lateral moves (functional training, tennis, football), running shoes lack side support, increasing the risk of rollovers and overload. They also wear faster under those forces.

Treadmills are fine in running shoes. For classes, ball sports, or heavy lifting, choose footwear with lateral support or a flatter, more stable base.

Why buy running shoes at Running Point?

Enjoy a unique blend of huge selection, availability, and service. With well over 1,000 pairs in stock, we offer one of the largest assortments in Europe. Everything ships from our own warehouse for fast delivery.

Shop confidently with our 30-day money-back guarantee.

We work closely with the top brands—which means the latest innovations, proven classics, and frequent special and limited editions you won’t see everywhere. Our range includes running shoes by ASICS, adidas, Altra, Mizuno, Saucony, Under Armour and many more.

Beyond shoes, we’ve got your full kit: performance running apparel, practical running accessories, and soothing recovery shoes. For more tests, comparisons, and tips, visit our Running Blog.