SuperBest Pick #1
Brooks Ghost
Best overall daily trainer
9.1
Reliable, balanced cushioning that suits most runners and paces.
Drop: ≈12 mmType: Neutral dailyUse: Easy/long runs
Pros
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Wide sizes
Cons
- Not exciting
- Average weight
Best Running Shoes (2026)
Cushioned daily trainers to fast tempo shoes. We ranked current models on comfort, durability, versatility and value. Versions update often, so buy the latest one.
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The short answer: The Brooks Ghost is the easiest recommendation for most runners; the ASICS Novablast is the most fun.
Quick picks
SuperBest Pick
Brooks Ghost
Best overall daily trainer · 9.1/10
Max-Cushion PickHOKA Clifton
Best cushioning · 9/10
Most FunASICS Novablast
Best bouncy trainer · 9/10
Versatile PickNike Pegasus
Best all-rounder · 8.7/10
Speed PickSaucony Endorphin Speed
Best for speed work · 9.2/10
Comparison table
Tap a column heading to sort.
| Product | Score | Best for | Drop | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Ghost | 9.1 | Best overall daily trainer | ≈12 mm | Neutral daily | Easy/long runs |
| HOKA Clifton | 9 | Best cushioning | ≈8 mm | Neutral max cushion | Easy/recovery |
| ASICS Novablast | 9 | Best bouncy trainer | ≈8 mm | Neutral | Daily/tempo |
| Nike Pegasus | 8.7 | Best all-rounder | ≈10 mm | Neutral | Daily |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed | 9.2 | Best for speed work | ≈8 mm | Plated trainer | Tempo/race |
Watch before you buy
The 5 best running shoes, reviewed
Max-Cushion Pick #2
HOKA Clifton
Best cushioning
9
Soft, light and rockered for easy miles.
Drop: ≈8 mmType: Neutral max cushionUse: Easy/recovery
Pros
- Plush
- Light for its stack
- Smooth rocker
Cons
- Can feel unstable
- Outsole wear
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Most Fun #3
ASICS Novablast
Best bouncy trainer
9
Springy foam that handles easy runs and faster efforts.
Drop: ≈8 mmType: NeutralUse: Daily/tempo
Pros
- Very bouncy
- Versatile
- Great value
Cons
- Narrow for some
- Less stable
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Get matched free →Versatile Pick #4
Nike Pegasus
Best all-rounder
8.7
A do-it-all classic with a responsive feel.
Drop: ≈10 mmType: NeutralUse: Daily
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Easy to find
Cons
- Firmer than rivals
- Upper runs warm
Speed Pick #5
Saucony Endorphin Speed
Best for speed work
9.2
Nylon plate and lively foam for tempo runs and races.
Drop: ≈8 mmType: Plated trainerUse: Tempo/race
Pros
- Fast and fun
- Stable for a speed shoe
- Race-capable
Cons
- Pricey
- Less durable
How we ranked running shoes
Each product gets a SuperBest Score out of 10. It is a weighted editorial rating built from manufacturer specs, independent expert testing published by trusted outlets, verified owner feedback and long-term reliability reports. Full methodology.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace running shoes?
Typically every 500–800 km, or when cushioning feels flat.
Do I need stability shoes?
Only if you want extra support. Many runners do fine in neutral shoes; comfort is the best guide.
Should I size up?
Leave about a thumb's width in front of your longest toe; feet swell on longer runs.
Brooks Ghost vs HOKA Clifton →
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