Tested with our store experts and customers. These are the 10 running shoes that came out on top in our wear tests.
So you’re looking for a new pair of running shoes and want the best on the market. Running shoes are at a pinnacle in technology and quality. Running shoes are now lighter, more comfortable and more versatile than ever before. Allowing you to consistently push PBs and make faster recoveries after long runs.
Finding the right pair, though, can be a challenge. There are so many factors at play that need to be taken into consideration: Your gait, your running style, weight, surface types, current or previous injuries, foot shape, leg lengths, and the list goes on.
We would always recommend runners go to a specialist running shop and get a gait analysis and biomechanical assessment first to ensure they get the shoes that best match their body. It’s easy, takes less than an hour and you have peace of mind. However, we know this isn’t always possible, or better yet, you have been assessed recently and know what type of running shoe you need.
Note: This list is compiled from footwear picks from November 2023 for the Spring/Summer 2024 range of running shoes.
The best running shoes for 2024
At Alexandra Sports we see a lot of running shoes come and go. Every season we view and test every model from each leading brand and make select choices that are the best for our customers. We assess for a variety of areas that will best fit different runners, areas such as quality, technology, fit, feel, cushioning, grip, breathability, price and overall ride.
The shoes below make the cut for this list. These are the shoes that have ticked most of the boxes that would deem them the ‘best’ running shoes for 2024. Running in one of these shoes will not disappoint.
Note: These are a broad spectrum of running shoes and not specific to a single category.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 27 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a neutral daily trainer. A running shoe that can handle most paces and distances with little effort while fitting comfortably and is lightweight. Fans of the Wave Rider series of Mizuno will not be disappointed with the latest iteration. It is lighter than the Rider 26 thanks to the newly engineered Jacquard mesh, and the dynamotion fit system allows the shoe to work effortlessly with your unique stride.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Smooth ride | Not as breathable as alternative, but still good. |
Ideal for all run lengths and paces | |
Grippy outsole | |
Lighter than its predecessor |
- Type: Balanced
- Weight: 281g
- Heel Drop: 12mm
- Carbon plate: No
If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. The Hoka Arahi 7 has taken this to heart. The all-popular stability running shoe is back with modest improvements to its upper to increase overall comfort. A lighter-weight, highly engineered flat knit upper now provides better airflow and breathability. Fans of the Arahi will not be disappointed and new adopters may never switch away again.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Great arch support | Heavier than Arahi 6 |
Double gusset is great | Can feel too firm compared to similair shoes |
Knitted upper is fantastic | |
Comfortable |
- Type: Balanced stability
- Weight: 272g
- Heel Drop: 5mm
- Carbon plate: No
Saucony Ride 17
The Saucony Ride 17 is a fantastic neutral daily running shoe that offers great versatility. While subtle, the Ride 17 offers excellent stability and durability providing great value. The 17th edition of the Ride has a more modern take on its predecessor by upgrading the PWRRUN+ midsole trading a slightly heavier ride for a much greater comfort and energy return.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Increased Energy return and comfort | Weight increase |
Durable outsole | Chunkier look |
Softer and more plush | |
Good stability for a neutral shoe |
- Type: Cushioned
- Weight: 286g
- Heel Drop: 8mm
- Carbon plate: No
Another personal favourite of ours, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is a fantastic maximum cushioned daily runner with a supportive but cushioned ride. The Glycerin 21 feels plush and luxurious while maintaining a consistence feel when running. The improved 21st iteration provides a wider toe-box, warmer knitted upper and is slightly more cushioned than its predecessor (2mm higher stack). Although this is not a stability shoe, Brooks has kindly introduced a GTS version of the Glycerin, finally giving those of you who overpronate a chance to experience the Glycerin.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Plush ride due to more cushioning | The improved upper can get a tad warmer |
Wider toe-box is a refreshing take | Energy return could be improved |
Highly durable | |
Lighter than the 20 |
- Type: Neutral Cushioned
- Weight: 283g
- Heel Drop: 10mm
- Carbon plate: No
The 17th edition of the well-known guide series is comfortable, durable and reliable. Providing adequate support for overpronators looking for more stability, the Saucony Guide 17 is a superb option for a daily runner. A breathable, padded upper combined with the PWRRUN midsole cushioning gives the shoe a premium feel with a responsive stride. The support structure has been redesigned and now has higher sidewalls in the absence of a medial post.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Highly breathable upper | Energy return is slightly reduced |
Great stability thanks to PWRRUN | |
Reliable and consistent run | |
Good day-to-day runner |
- Type: Stability
- Weight: 269g
- Heel Drop: 6mm
- Carbon plate: No
The all-new Brooks Ghost Max is the maximum cushioned version of the much-loved Ghost series. A great daily runner with fantastic versatility. Softer and more cushioned than the Ghost 15 it will no doubt please fans that aren’t keen on the ‘firmness’ of the Brooks Ghost 15. Many will find this to be better than the 15, due to the higher cushioning, although we feel both play their part well.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Luxury upper (both look and feel) | On the heavier side |
Softer than the Ghost | |
More cushioning in the forefoot | |
Good amount of stability for a neutral shoe |
- Type: Balanced/Highly cushioned
- Weight: 283g
- Heel Drop: 6mm
- Carbon plate: No
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a premium daily running shoe providing supreme comfort that benefits from a higher drop and DNA Loft v2. recommended for heel-strikers, the luxurious upper, consistent fit and easy ride make the Ghost 15 a safe choice for neutral runners looking to upgrade. The 15th iteration introduces us to DNA Loft v2 midsole, which trades off a heavier weight for a firmer but more premium ride. Faster-paced runners will benefit more from the Ghost 15 but will no doubt impress all who wear it.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Luxury upper (both look and feel) | Heavier than the Ghost 14 |
Very consistent ride | Firmer |
Great for faster paces | |
Good amount of stability for a neutral shoe |
- Type: Premium balanced
- Weight: 278g
- Heel Drop: 12mm
- Carbon plate: No
The Mizuno Inspire 20 Running Shoes are a game-changer for runners seeking a blend of support and comfort in their footwear. With Mizuno’s commitment to quality and innovation, these shoes feature the latest in running technology, including an enhanced mesh design for superior breathability and a smoother ride. The Inspire 20 series boasts an updated Wave technology that offers dynamic cushioning and improved stability, perfect for overpronators or runners looking for extra support.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Soft and propulsive | Slightly wider fitting than before |
Very durable | |
Breathable mesh using sustainable materials | |
Wave plate keeps the foot straight |
- Type: Balanced stability
- Weight: 305g
- Heel Drop: 12mm
- Carbon plate: No
The Hoka Clifton 9 has dramatically improved its standing in the running community and with its narrow-fitting maximalist cushioning goal, it has certainly captured the hearts of runners around the globe. Highly cushioned and fantastic energy-saving transitions make running a very enjoyable experience. Suited for a slower-paced daily runner, this running shoe will certainly provide instant gratification when running in it for the first time.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Improved arch length | Narrow style (although wide fitting is available) |
Lighter | Price has increased |
Even more cushioning | |
Softer feel |
- Type: Maximum cushioning
- Weight: 247g
- Heel Drop: 5mm
- Carbon plate: No
We have found the Brooks Adrenaline series one of the most reliable stability running shoe models on the market, and the Adrenaline GTS 23 is no exception to this. Brooks has continued the formula that works, provided some modern tweaks to improve comfort and ride, and continued to lead the pack in stable running shoes. If you need any form of stability, the GTS 23 is almost certain to meet your needs.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Guiderail system | 12mm heel drop is slightly more than some people want |
Improved comfort | |
Adaptive stability | |
Highly durable |
- Type: Stability
- Weight: 286g
- Heel Drop: 12mm
- Carbon plate: No
How often do I need to change my running shoes?
You can read about this in detail in our article ‘When to replace your running shoes’.
To help reduce waste, we always recommend trying to get every mile out of your running shoes and then when it’s time for new ones, trade them in at a specialist running store who have a dedicated footwear recycling scheme (At Alexandra Sports we even offer money off your purchase when you do so).
Your footwear miles have a lot of deciding factors. Gait, weight, running surface and even temperature can have effects on the lifespan of your running shoes. Larger midsole footwear also generally lasts a bit longer than shoes with a smaller foam stack, simply because of more material.
So, how many miles can I get out of my running shoes? Generally speaking, 300-500 miles tends to be the usual amount of time before the materials of the shoe have started to distort, wear down and break. This doesn’t mean the shoes are no longer usable, but it does mean the performance the shoes originally provided, is no longer there. Worn-down shoes can also lead to injuries as materials are no longer as durable as they once were.
How do I know my foot type or stance for my running shoes?
If you have just started running, we always advise getting a gait analysis at your local running shop. With a mix of biomechanical assessment and a proper foot scan, you can be absolutely sure as to what foot type you have and what footwear you need.
In a general sense of the term, there are 3 main foot and footwear groups:
Overpronation – Now the most common pronation type for runners. When someone overpronates it means the foot tends to roll inward as it strikes the ground, transferring your weight toward the inner edge rather than the ball of your foot. Runners of this group tend to need running shoes with more stability, there are different levels of overpronation, and luckily, there are different running shoes with different levels of stability.
Neutral – This refers to runners that have a normal range of pronation. A natural inward roll and range of motion of the foot as it strikes the ground. This group will tend to go for neutral running shoes
Underpronation or Supination – More uncommonly, but not unheard of, Supination is when your weight rolls to the outer edge of your foot as take a step. In most cases a neutral shoe is best suited for this gait, however, custom insoles can certainly help the movement even more.
Do I need running shoes?
If you are beginning to run, then Absolutely, investing in a pair of running shoes is a wise decision for anyone engaged in running, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger. Running shoes are specifically designed to cater to the demands of running, offering benefits that ordinary trainers and footwear cannot match.
Firstly, they are constructed with specialized technologies to provide support and cushioning tailored to the repetitive impact of running. This not only enhances comfort during your runs but also significantly reduces the risk of injuries by absorbing shock and properly aligning your foot.
Unlike ordinary trainers, running shoes are engineered to accommodate the unique biomechanics of running, offering stability for various foot types and running styles.
Additionally, they are often lighter and equipped with breathable materials to keep your feet cool and comfortable over long distances. By choosing running shoes over regular trainers, you’re not just investing in a piece of sports equipment; you’re investing in your health, comfort, and running performance. The right pair of running shoes can transform your running experience, making it more enjoyable and helping you achieve your fitness goals with greater ease.