The best men’s running shoes for every terrain
Shoppers are raving about these incredible comfort and support of these running shoes.
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Whether you’re a seasoned runner or finally jumping on the bandwagon, there’s one essential you need: running shoes. A good pair of joggers can make or break your workout, so it’s important to purchase a pair tailored to your individual needs.
According to THE ICONIC’s Performance Footwear Buyer, Steven Waterhouse, finding the perfect pair of men’s running shoes starts with the fit. “This may seem like an obvious one, however, many don’t know that sizes between a casual versus a running shoe can differ,” Steven tells news.com.au. “Sizing up by at least a half-size is always a good idea to combat against swelling or expansion when running.”
Next, take the surfaces you’ll spend most of your time running on into consideration. If you’ll be galloping out a run on pavement, pick shoes with more cushioning and support. If rough terrain is more your thing, think about trail running shoes with more grip and ankle support. Here are the best men’s running shoes to get you started including the TikTok viral Hoka running shoes that has the internet and Harry Styles obsessed.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICK
Ultraboost 1.0 shoes, $260 at adidas
Why we love it: Stylish and comfortable
What to consider: Some reviewers say they are fairly heavy
Material: Textile and synthetic upper
Colours: Three
Drop: 10mm
What You Need To Know
These popular shoes have been some of Adidas’ bestsellers for years now. Not only are they great for running but they’re also stylish enough to wear on a casual walk and out and about with friends too. The knit upper gently hugs the foot while the midsole keeps your feet cushioned and supported for the whole run.
One five-star review titled, “worth every cent”, calls the shoes “the most comfy shoes I ever had”.
“Never thought wearing good shoes would make such a difference,” they continued.
Another very impressed customer wrote that they were onto their 7th or 8th pair and loved how “nice and bouncy” they were. They also said they were “great for running on roads”.
Another said, “These are the comfiest and most supportive shoes – I buy them constantly when each pair runs down”.
BEST ROAD RUNNING SHOES
If you love pounding the pavement, you’ll know first-hand how hard it can be on your joints. When selecting road running shoes, it’s important to opt for a pair with adequate support and ample cushioning that can absorb some of the impact.
On Cloudsurfer Mens, $249.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Incredibly lightweight
What to consider: Some reviews mention a loud squeaking sound
Material: Textile and synthetic upper
Colours: Four
Drop: 10mm
What You Need To Know
Specifically designed for running on the road, these joggers are beloved by runners worldwide. They’re super lightweight meaning that you won’t feel dragged down by the heavy shoe but they’re also super comfortable too.
Features include patented CloudTec® technology for a lightweight, performance enhancing fit, a surfboard inspired Speedboard® silhouette as well as sole technology that balances and supports your postural muscles.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 – Men’s, $259.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Guardrail system ensures the shoes are incredibly stable
What to consider: Very steep drop
Material: Synthetic upper
Colours: Two
Drop: 12mm
What You Need To Know
These sneakers are made for running, with a specially made air mesh upper and the GuideRails holistic midsole support for maximum cushion and support.
Other features include breathable air mesh, 3D fit print and BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning.
One five-star reviewer said, “I haven’t bought Brooks runners for quite a few years. Recently I caught a glimpse of their new range and thought I would give them a go. I am VERY impressed.
“The cushioning and support are excellent. I walk/jog almost every day as I complete my 10,000 steps goal.
“I had no issue with the shoe, it fits like a glove and there was no irritation or discomfort. I did go up a size as I have orthotics and a heel raise.”
BEST TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
If you prefer the unpredictable terrain of the outdoors opposed to hopping on the treadmill, there are plenty of brilliant trail running shoes to choose from. To assist in bolting over slippery, uneven surfaces, picking shoes with enhanced grip and cushioned ankle support is key for safe trail runs.
Salomon Outpulse Gore-Tex Mens, $239.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Perfect for rough terrains
What to consider: Not the best for road running
Material: Water repellent GORE-TEX mesh upper
Colours: Two
Drop: 10mm
What You Need To Know
French brand Salomon is renowned for its shoes that are designed to navigate outdoor terrain.
These runners have serious grip as well as features like protective toecaps, OrthoLite sockliner and fuse surge for dynamic stride.
They’re also made from water repellent GORE-TEX mesh upper for ultimate comfort when in the great outdoors.
“These were phenomenal, I had maybe one day of achy feet due to breaking them in and then everyday after that was amazing. These were by the far the comfiest shoe I have ever wore,” wrote one five-star review on Google.
Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 – Men’s, 190 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Suitable for both trail and road running
What to consider: Some reviews say the traction isn’t super great for slippery terrain
Material: Engineered mesh upper
Colours: Two
Drop: 9.5mm
What You Need To Know
These Nike runners are designed to keep you comfortable through all your outdoor adventures with features like heel-to-toe Nike React foam and cushioning designed to move with you.
Made from textile and mesh materials that are super breathable, the runners also have waterproof GORE-TEX weather protection. They also feature a higher ankle gaiter keeping your foot further off the ground and away from puddles.
“These shoes give the perfect amount of firm support in combination with enough cushion and comfort to go for a quality run without any discomfort or pain,” said one five-star review on Google.
BEST HYBRID SHOES (FOR ROAD AND TRAIL RUNNING)
Have an affinity for both trail runs and road jogs? Behold, hybrid shoes are your best bet. Combining the padding of a road shoe with the grip and stability of a trail run shoe, these options rise to all occasions.
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 Mens, $280 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Incredibly supportive
What to consider: Takes time to get used to the height of the shoes
Material: Textile and synthetic upper
Colours: 11
Drop: 10mm
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, Deputy Editor
After running in these a few times, and admittedly getting used to how big the shoes are, I’m in love.
It honestly feels like running on a cloud.
They do everything a good running shoe should do: provide comfort, stability and cushioning – and has actually made me look forward to running knowing that I won’t have my usual aches and pains after a run.
Hoka Clifton 9 – Men’s, $259.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Recommended for long runs
What to consider: Some reviewers noted it wasn’t responsive enough for a fast, short run
Material: Textile upper
Colours: Five
Drop: 5mm
What You Need To Know
These lightweight runners are designed for everyday runs, giving you support alongside propulsive cushioning to keep you moving forward.
Features include an ultralight compression midsole, a breathable engineered mesh upper, a soft padded tongue, and a refined pull tab for easy entry. The outsoles have also been recently redesigned to boost durability.
TikTokers rave about these shoes. The #hoka and #hokaclifton9 have 547.3 million and 10.5 million views respectively.
TikToker @alexsolominfitness calls theses shoes the “most comfortable shoe” he has ever tried and that it’s like “you’re gliding on clouds”.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING RUNNING SHOES
When choosing running shoes to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Fabric: Lightweight materials will ensure the shoe is breathable and doesn’t get too hot during a run. Knitted materials also provide extra support through their hug-like fabric.
Support: Whether you need strong arch support, extra cushioning through the midsole or a bouncy boost to your step, finding the right support system in a running shoe is crucial.
Lacing system: Tying a shoe too tight or too loose can be extremely detrimental to a run so finding a lacing system that allows for the perfect tightness is very important.
Durability: How long will the shoe last? Is it suitable for all weather?
Grip: A strong grip on the shoe is not only good for trail running but also for wet weather and other more intense environments such as up and downhill running.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
frequently asked questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE BEST HEEL DROP FOR RUNNING SHOES?
Traditionally, a heel drop in a running shoe is around 10mm or more. This works to offer extra cushioning in the heel and also promotes a good running style by ensuring the toe lands first.
SHOULD I BUY RUNNING SHOES IN A BIGGER SIZE?
Buying the right size is arguably the most important step in buying running shoes. You want to make sure you have extra for your toes because when you run, especially when you run far, the feet naturally expand. With this in mind, experts recommend buying running shoes around half a size larger than your normal shoe size.
IS IT NORMAL FOR RUNNING SHOES TO HURT AT FIRST?
Like all shoes, sometimes it can take a little while for a new running shoe to soften and feel good while you run. But if this continues after the fourth or fifth run then do not keep wearing them as this can do more than good.
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