Go the Distance Faster with the Best Running Shoes for Men

They say you can’t run away from your problems, but if your problem is inactivity, well, we guess you actually can? Whether you’re a newbie in the process of motivating to get off the couch, or a long time running enthusiast looking to step up your game, footwear is all-important—but the choices have never been so overwhelming.

Sneakers specialized for activities (like basketball or tennis shoes for men) are getting more advanced by the year. “We’re in the era of the ‘super shoe,” says Dircksen. “There are racing and workout shoes now that have carbon fiber plates built into the soles, which improves running economy, decreases muscle damage, and improves performance. This new technology is being used by everyone, pros and recreational athletes alike. The everyday trainers are also seeing a shift in stack height, or how much cushion is on the shoes. Nearly all brands now have big cushioned options for their shoes. The foam used in these shoes is another technological evolution, improving the energy return for runners.”

To help find the best fit for you, we’ve rounded up the best running shoes for men to help you run as fast—and as far as you can.

Our top picks for the best running shoes for men

How to choose the best running shoes for men

Choosing a pair of sneakers is a little trickier than picking out, say, running shorts. “If you’ve never been properly fitted for running shoes before, the best advice is to visit your local running specialty store, where expertly-trained staff can do a gait analysis to determine the best category of shoes for you,” advises Sarah Stafford, marketing director at Brooklyn Running Company. “You want to look for a shoe that is comfortable, provides the right amount of support that you need, and does not cause any discomfort or pain in the arch or heel when you run. When determining the correct size for your running shoe, runners should typically expect to go up a half to full size larger than their street shoes, so that there is a bit of extra space in the toe box, allowing the foot to expand.”

“My advice is to keep it simple,” says movement coach Brock Armstrong. “If you put on a pair of shoes that fit and they feel good, they’re good! If you put them on and they feel weird, don’t get them. It doesn’t matter what the salesperson says, your running partner says, or a blog post says. What your feet say is the only thing that matters. Listen to your immediate reaction.”

“Comfort is most important when choosing running shoes,” agrees Dircksen. “Try them on, walk, or jog around, and see how they feel. They shouldn’t feel like there’s extra pressure, irritation, or friction on your foot. It may take a few tries with different shoe brands and models to find the shoe that feels the most comfortable. Running shoes also have different purposes: There are your everyday trainers, your workout and racing shoes, your trail shoes, and your recovery shoes. If you’re just starting out, find an ‘everyday’ training shoe that’s comfortable and durable.”

How we selected the best running shoes for men

We made our choices through a combination of expert advice, in-depth research, personal experience, and sifting through countless customer reviews. Additionally, we developed categories for the top concerns among runners of all levels, then did extensive research to find the top brands known for their quality, selection, customer service, and product availability.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which brand is best for running shoes?

“Most of the major brands make a wide enough variety of sizes, shapes, and types of shoes that anyone is bound to find a pair they like,” says Armstrong. “It’s only when you get to the smaller brands (Altra, Hoka, Peluva, etc.) that you may or may not like them. My personal fave right now is Altra, but I have Wile E. Coyote feet (long and wide). That might not work for someone with Barney Rubble-style feet.”

What is the new shoe technology in 2023?

“Shoe technology is ever-evolving, with improvements made constantly to the materials used for cushioning, plates, and other components of a running shoe,” says Stafford. “Shoe brands typically release a new version of each model once a year. Part of the fit process at a run specialty store is helping customers understand the implications of evolutions, especially in new updates to old favorites.”

What running shoes do pros use?

“Basically, anything with carbon plates in them,” says Armstrong. “The ‘super shoes’ are all the rage, from marathon to triathlon and even into track spikes. The brand of the shoe is less relevant than the technology. Spoiler: The brand they wear is usually determined by which company is willing to give the athlete free shoes.”

What are the three types of running shoes?

“Running shoes can be divided into two very broad and general categories of support: Stability and neutral,” explains Stafford. “A stability shoe is designed with supportive features in the midsole, for people who overpronate. Motion-control shoes are those models that lie on the most stable end of the stability spectrum. Conversely, a neutral shoe is designed for people with either a neutral gait or who supinate.”

“It’s important to note that many runners are not firmly in one support category or another,” Stafford continues. “Support requirements can be informed by injury, fatigue, strength, and experience. Additionally, biomechanists and footwear designers are constantly evaluating the appropriate amount of support (or lack thereof) that can best reduce injury. We recommend working with a fit specialist that can discuss training and injury history, goals, and the pros and cons of different amounts of stability.”

“Within and across these support categories you will also find varying degrees of cushion,” Stafford adds. “The appropriate amount of cushion can also be affected by training goals, injury history, and even simple personal preference in the ride of the shoe. Many runners may also consider exploring a shoe specifically designed for uptempo efforts or race day. These models maximize degrees of energy return or improved running economy, with the focus typically determined by the distance of the race.”

“We all have different feet,” says Armstrong. “And our feet all have different histories (injuries, uses, shoes worn outside of running). The main thing you need to know about the shoes is that your particular feet may be happier in shoes with stability. Your partner’s feet may be happier with more cushion. Don’t get hung up on why, just know which one feels best. And then, of course, spend as much time barefoot (or as close to it as possible) when you’re not running so you can keep your feet healthy and strong.”