11 Best Running Shoes for Women, According to Extensive Testing

When testing sneakers, GH analysts and testers alike continue to be impressed by the offerings from New Balance. This pair of versatile running shoes has a flexible knit upper and soft foam underfoot making it ideal for long runs, quick sprints and walks. We especially like that they're strategically designed with more foam at the widest points of the shoe and more flexibility where they narrow. Testers gave perfect scores for fit, comfort and cushioning, saying they "provide just enough cushioning during your runs" and are "very lightweight and breathable." One sports medicine physician we talked to said this pair has excellent construction and excellent stability features that are suitable for any age.

In our tests, Asics sneakers were widely popular among our tester panel for providing excellent stability, support and comfort. This affordable model has the brand's signature gel technology to absorb impact. With decent cushioning, these sneakers have a foam midsole for a “pillowy” feel but lack the zoned cushioning seen in higher-end options. We love the mesh upper for a breathable feel and the wide sizing options. This shoe is ideal for those with neutral alignment.

Adidas Ultraboost running shoes feel like "walking on a cloud," according to our testers who loved the Boost foam cushioning. The Boost foam is specialized to contain small pockets of cushioning throughout that help return more energy to your foot to propel you forward as you run making it great for treadmill running and road running alike. Testers appreciated the plush cushioning that absorbed shock but noted that it did wear away a bit over time. GH analysts like that the knit upper can stretch to accommodate bunions and it was also popular among testers who said this pair "fit like a glove" with easy on/off.

When running on unforgiving concrete or track, you need proper cushioning and support with enough traction to prevent slips. This new style from On Running checks every box. With a slight rocker, it's designed to propel you forward to increase your speed. One tester said it feels "like a see-saw on the bottom of my foot that made each step while running feel a little easier; like I was getting a boost from the cushion and the shape of the sole." On Running is known for its signature Cloud Tec for ultimate cushioning which testers said felt "bouncy and springy." We also appreciate that the brand uses a bit of recycled content in making these sneakers. One tester did note that she wished this pair had more ankle stability to prevent her feet from rolling inward.

If you tend to have foot pain or are new to running, look for a running shoe that will provide solid stability and control. There’s cushioning on the heel thanks to the brand’s “Segmented Crash Pad” outsole, which refers to a system of shock absorbers for a smoother ride. This pair has a larger heel drop that promotes early heel strike to help relieve the stress on the rear foot and Achilles tendon — helpful if you suffer from plantar fasciitis. One tester raved about this pair's support and comfort, saying, "I didn't even feel like I was running on the pavement while wearing these." Note that these sneakers aren’t recommended for under pronators as they're designed specifically to prevent the ankle from rolling inward (overpronation).

We appreciate this pair from PUMA's thick yet lightweight foam that's designed for cushioning and propulsion, ideal for the runner focused on speed. The brand uses nitrogen-injected foam to keep the material lightweight, which testers loved. The extra padding around the ankle and high traction outsole help keep your feet protected. Testers raved about how light this pair felt on their feet, wearing them on sprints and long-distance races alike. One told us, “It had plenty of cushion for impact and my knees didn’t bother me after the workouts.”

Testers found that this pair of Nike shoes helped support their high arches, leading them to report less foot pain when running. The brand's Flywire technology (a system of high-strength threads that provide precise support) integrated with a midfoot band helps keep your feet perfectly cushioned and in place throughout your runs. One tester said these are her favorite running shoes, saying, "I have not taken these shoes off since receiving them. As someone with a bad back who frequently finds exercise painful, these running shoes never flare any hip pain." Testers also rated this style highly for its chic appearance that goes nicely with a variety of activewear outfits. Note that many online reviewers recommend going up a size for a better fit.

A low- to zero-heel-drop shoe is best suited for runners who land on the middle to the front of their foot. If you prefer zero-drop shoes, look no further than these top-tested running shoes from Altra. Testers unanimously praised their excellent, plush cushioning saying they had a "very cushy and bouncy" feel, but note that they ran a bit small. One tester said, "It felt like I could go faster and farther than I could with my usual running shoes." GH analysts also appreciate this pair's built-in arch support, roomy toe box and slight rocker design.

If you're not sure if a zero-drop shoe is right for you, you can read more about heel drop at the end of this guide.

Extra-cushioned running shoes are a game changer for some runners, especially those who suffer from foot pain. Dr. Johnson says thick cushioning can help "lessen impact per step and absorb impact [leading to] less trauma on the foot overall." When it comes to running shoes with cloud-like cushioning, Hoka is the most popular brand for a reason. These running shoes feature ample cushioning without feeling too clunky. One tester shared that the pair "enhanced my performance," while feeling "cushiony and supportive." Testers were mixed about the appearance, but we like that this style is available in over 10 colors and in wide sizing.

If your big toe tends to do the majority of the work while running, you’re likely an overpronator. These running shoes help accommodate this running style to spread the impact across your whole foot. These running shoes have Flytefoam for cushioning and shock-absorbing gel, two classic Asics features we appreciate. They also have firmer foam to help prevent the foot from rolling inward excessively. Some online reviewers with higher arches wish they had more arch support.

When running on the trails, a heavy hiking boot will just bog you down, but you still need excellent traction and support for tough conditions. Opt for a lightweight trail runner like this style from Saucony. This pair has cleat-like treads for excellent traction and a sleek design for speed. The high-traction outsole kept our testers supported when running on soft terrain. We've found that the midsole is on the thinner side, which helps propel you forward as you run but offers less cushioning than other styles. Testers said that this pair has an “exceptionally comfortable fit” and “great ankle support and stability.”