30-04-2025
The 18 best running shoes for men in 2025, according to podiatrists and runners
Running shoes quick picks
For flat-footed athletes: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Everyday trainers that'll last: Nike Pegasus 41
Plush shoes for runners with arthritis: Hoka Bondi 9
Trail runners with a cult following: Altra Lone Peak 9 When it comes to men's running shoes, there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all. The same gear a trail runner uses to race up a mountain won't do much for a new runner sprinting on a treadmill. Throw in different body types, running gaits, training goals and budgets, and it's clear: Finding the right pair of running shoes takes more than just a flashy design.
To give you an idea of which shoes are best suited for your specific needs, I turned to four seasoned running experts to help build a standout lineup. Whether you're lacing up for your first lope or chasing a new personal best, there's something here for everyone. The experts also shared practical, no-nonsense tips on how to choose the right shoes. Here's what they recommend.
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 24
Using Brooks' cushy DNA Loft v3 foam and GuideRails technology (like training wheels on a bike), the Adrenaline GTS 24 offers extra stability on the road. They're a prime recommendation of Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare, for overpronators and patients with flat to Coast Men's P1
Though Mount to Coast doesn't have mainstream brand recognition, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, reaches for the brand's P1 stability shoes, which she said are superb for pronators who run long distances. Like many of the shoes on this list, they also come stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Men's Addiction GTS 15
Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a multiboard-certified podiatrist and running shop owner, recommends this responsive, extra-supportive model for overpronators with knee, hip or other lower extremity problems. They're so good that you shouldn't need insoles or orthotics, he said. Plus, they come in four widths, from narrow to extra Men's Wave Inspire 21
For 2025, Mizuno updated the Wave Inspire with a wider forefoot and extra cushioning, and Mendeszoon likes them because they are a solid buy for responsive stability. But what makes the Wave Inspire really stand apart is their 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which he said offers 'tremendous heel shock absorption,' to mitigate aggressive heel striking.
Hoka Men's Arahi 7
The beefy midsoles on the Hoka Arahi 7 will keep excess pronation in check, Mendeszoon said. Combine that with the stellar shock absorption, outstanding breathability and roomy toe boxes, and you can see why these are another of his favorites.
Brooks Men's Beast GTS 24
Whether you've got severely flat feet, have had surgery or suffer from other foot problems, try Brooks' Beast model, Mendeszoon said. They offer some of the most support and cushioning out of Brooks' line and also make excellent walking shoes. The newest model features softer, more breathable uppers without sacrificing their roomy fit.
Nike Men's Pegasus 41
The versatile, durable Nike Pegasus 41, one of Cunha's favorites, epitomize what everyday trainers should aspire to. Upgrades in 2025 include an increase in the shoe's cushioning, more breathable uppers and an improved lacing system for a dialed fit.
Saucony Men's Ride 18
Like the Pegasus 41, the Saucony Ride 18 are like the Swiss Army knife of the road running world, offering something for long-distance runners, casual joggers and men who just want a comfy pair of walking shoes. Cunha added that they also accommodate most foot types and running Men's Glycerin 22
If you're the kind of guy who likes to wear running shoes to the office and the gym, then the Glycerin 22 are the do-it-all model you're looking for. Parthasarathy said they're one of her top picks for everyday wear and running, thanks to the well-cushioned midsoles and wide toe boxes. You can also snag the Glycerin GTS 22, which offer more support for Men's Bondi 9
With their 'bouncy, cushioned feel,' Parthasarathy said she points patients to the Bondi 9 if they have fat pad atrophy or arthritis. The newest version has a higher stack height for an ultra-plush experience on the road.
Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 27
'The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 remains one of my top choices for neutral runners looking for extra cushioning and long-distance comfort,' Cunha said. For this year's model, expect an even higher, squishier midsole.
Hoka Men's Clifton 10
'For patients seeking all-around performance, the Hoka Clifton 10s offer superior cushioning and a smooth ride — ideal for heel strikers and long-distance runners,' Cunha said. The newest iteration also comes with more cushioning, a roomier forefoot and toe Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14
Men with wide feet should test drive New Balance's 1080v14, Cunha said. The brand has equipped the cushioned, everyday running shoes with new, more breathable uppers and extra rubber for more durability.
Brooks Men's Ghost 17
Despite being hot off the assembly line, Parthasarathy is already recommending Ghost's newest model for its 'very responsive' design that will suit neutral or supinated gaits. At time of publication, they're available for preorder at Brooks.
Altra Men's Lone Peak 9
Contributing writer Cassandra Brooklyn called the Altra Lone Peak some of the best hiking shoes you can buy. They have a cult-like following among trail runners too, and received plaudits from Cunha for their wide toe boxes and zero-drop platforms, 'which promote natural foot movement.'Read our review
La Sportiva Men's Bushido 3
After runners on staff logged more than 100 miles in 13 popular trail running shoes, the Bushido 3 emerged as our favorite, impressing testers with their sticky rubber, cooling ventilation and aggressive lugs. Keep in mind, however, that these are truly specialist shoes that won't work well on the road or for casual exercise in the our review
Brooks Men's Cascadia 18
Whereas the Bushido 3 would be overkill for road running, our testers found the Cascadia versatile enough to take on- and off-road. (We tested the 17, which are very similar.) They've got rock plates and overlays to protect you when the terrain is tough, and just enough cushioning for long walks, hikes and road our review
Hoka Men's Speedgoat 6
Though our trail running experts at CNN Underscored haven't tried the newest model of the Speedgoat, an earlier iteration is our pick for long-distance trail runs and ultramarathons. Highlights include flexible uppers that expand as your feet swell and comfy cushioning.
Read our review 'The right running shoes can make a big difference in preventing injuries, improving comfort and keeping the entire body in better alignment while running,' Cunha said.
Know your gait pattern
Cunha believes your gait, the way you move when you run, is a key factor when choosing the best pair of running shoes, and he noted three gait or stride patterns:
Pronation: When your feet roll inward.
Supination: When your feet roll outward.
Neutral: When your feet distribute weight evenly.
And though this may sound technical, figuring out your own gait doesn't have to be. 'Going to your local run shop and getting an in-person gait analysis is absolutely the best way to have veteran eyes tell you what shoe is best for you,' Sackett said. Or, if you're willing to do a little DIY investigation, Cunha suggests looking at the wear patterns on your old shoes to get a better idea of how your feet hit the ground when you run.
Find shoes that fit
Once you know your gait pattern and terrain, the last thing to consider is the right fit. 'A proper fit helps prevent pain, blisters and injuries like plantar fasciitis or toenail trauma,' Cunha said. 'If it feels off in the store, it'll feel worse on a run.'
Look for running shoes that fit snug but not tight, with about a thumb's-width of space between your big toes and the ends of the shoes. 'The toe box should be wide enough to wiggle your toes, and the shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not through the arch,' he added.
Another pro tip? Make sure you try on your shoes at the right time of day. Parthasarathy recommends shopping toward the end of the day, after a run, when your feet are most swollen. 'If they feel good then, they'll likely feel good during a run,' Cunha added.
Still not sure what to buy? Lean on a podiatrist or a trusted staffer at a specialty running store for guidance. 'Running shoes are the best they've ever been, and nowadays you can really find something for every running style,' Sackett said.
The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, and product line manager at Brooks, Lee Sacket.
What are the best running shoes for beginners?
What are the best running shoes for beginners?
'For someone just getting into running, I always recommend starting with a balanced, 'perfect blend' type of shoe,' Sackett said, 'so you can start to unpack the features and feelings that you like and dislike on the run while still staying protected and comfortable.'
In technical terms, he said to find a pair with a medium stack height (28 millimeters to 36 millimeters), a soft, responsive midsole, an upper that fits comfortably with the contours of your feet and enough stretch for your toes to spread out.
How long do running shoes last?
How long do running shoes last?
Parthasarathy and Cunha said that it's important to replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Worn-out shoes can lead to heel pain, shin splints, knee pain or even back issues,' Cunha said. You can also try bending shoes to check wear, Parthasarathy said. If they bend in half, it's time for a new pair.
Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes?
Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes?
'At Gotham Footcare, I often explain to my patients that women's running shoes are typically designed with a narrower heel, softer cushioning and a different arch design to accommodate anatomical differences,' Cunha said. 'Men's shoes tend to be wider and built with slightly firmer midsoles to support greater body weight and wider foot structure.'
That said, 'fit and function' matter most, regardless of gender, according to Cunha. If you're a guy who prefers a pair of women's running shoes, wear those instead.
To ensure this guide features high-quality advice and recommendations, I spoke to four experts, including three podiatrists and a product line manager at Brooks.
Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare
Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, multiboard-certified podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties and owner of Achilles Running Shop, a specialty shop dedicated to runners, walkers and athletes
Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association
Lee Sackett, product line manager at Brooks Running
CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Here, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya interviewed running and health care experts. Whenever possible, Shukuya also included products we've tested and loved in other health and fitness guides.
