15 of the best women's running shoes for all paces
You'll be flying with these new kicks
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Our Top Picks
- New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 (Standard Fit) Women's
- lululemon Beyondfeel Women's Trail Running Shoe
- New Balance Fresh Foam Shoes
From minimising injury to prolonging stamina, form-fitting running shoes provide the right foundation for your entire body and make it far more enjoyable to log those kilometres.
Making the call to head out for a run is not done lightly for a lot of us. For some, it requires leaving the house before dawn has even started to split through the sky because the kids are awake by 6am. For others, it's forcing ourselves to exert the last sprinkle of energy within us after a too-long day of work. But many will probably agree that whatever the cost, carving the time and energy out to get some exercise is always worth it.
Except when you're coming home with blisters the size of eggs, battling shooting pain throughout your run or practically feeling the cement slam your soles on every step because you aren't wearing the right running shoes.
Health and fitness writer and host of Body+Soul's Healthy-ish podcast, Felicity Harley, says, "a solid pair of running shoes can physically and mentally make or break a runner - from pure enjoyment, to injury prevention, performance and simply being easier to steer".
Finding the right running shoes is crucial for running and looking after our health. So here, we've rounded up the best women's running shoes for sale, including the lululemon shoes that one reviewer said she wanted to sleep in because they were so comfortable, and the New Balance pair that are bound to get you a race day PB. On your marks, get set, go shopping!
OUR TOP PICKS
Experts picks for best women's running shoe
New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 Women's, $99.99 (down from $179.99) at Rebel Sport
Why we love it: All the materials for an extra cushioned ride
Worth noting: Rubber is used sparingly for a lightweight feel
Materials: FuelCell foam, mesh, rubber | Colour: Various
What you need to know
Felicity has been running in New Balance shoes for the past five years. "I’m a 3km to 4 km runner, three times a week," she said. "I prefer more cushioning and, yes, style comes into play for me too. There’s no hard and fast rule with versatility and durability, but I tend to turnover my runners every 12 to 18 months. I’m also a fan of ASICS as it’s a brand with running at its core, and Brooks and HOKA, which are officially “cool” and always favourites of runners."
Reebok Floatzig 1, $220 at Reebok
Why we love it: Colour popping and lightweight
Worth noting: Sizes run big
Materials: Engineered mesh upper with reflective overlays, Floatride Energy Foam, Rubber outsole | Colour: Various
Tried and tested by Tara Meakins, Body+Soul Fitness Writer and Coogee Run Club Co-founder
When Reebok promised a shoe that would represent "the new shape of running" they were not messing around, and it was love at first stride for me and the Floatzig 1. Gorgeously lightweight (which is my biggest demand in a long distance running shoe) thanks to the brand's premium foam technology that enhances cushioning, they're super soft and springy, ensuring a smooth and comfortable run and high energy return. Not to mention, I'm obsessed with the colouring and got so many great compliments while out for a run.
adidas Adizero Boston 12, $239.99 at Rebel Sport
Why we love it: Super lightweight, super energy-efficient, super colourful
Worth noting: Sizes run very big (I'm usually an 8 in trainers but even the 7 gave me too much wriggle room)
Materials: Breathable, lightweight mesh upper constriction with a Continental Rubber outsole | Colour: Various
Tried and tested by Tara Meakins, Body+Soul Fitness Writer and Coogee Run Club Co-founder
I don't think I've ever loved a shoe's choice of colours more than the adidas Adizero Boston 12! Bright, bold and neon, you'll stand out from the crowd as you wiz past thanks to the trainer's tech. Super-lightweight with a "propulsive underfoot sensation to help you push your pace, dual-density Lightstrike cushioning, and ENERGYRODS 2.01 for snappy energy-efficient transitions", these are the perfect pair for tempo-training days, such as the Coogee Run Club's Speed Sesh. I loved how they felt and the support they provided as I challenged myself to tougher paces in a bid to chase down a new PB.
Best running shoes for beginners
HOKA Clifton 9 Women's, $259.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Responsive cushioning
Worth noting: Best for everyday runs
Materials: EVA foam, recycled nylon, recycled polyester | Colour: Various
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness Shopping Writer
I've had these cloud-like HOKA running shoes for a few years now, and I'm loving them. I wasn't a regular runner before I purchased a proper pair of running shoes, and I can now fully understand why. I used to feel like my feet were slamming down on hard concrete, but with the right running shoe, I feel like I take each step with billowy support that just about springs me off the ground. Now my flatter, narrow feet are thanking me for the soft cushioning, secure fit and roomy toe box, and running five kilometres regularly feels so much more achievable. I would highly recommend the Clifton 9s for beginner runners. Though this isn't an extremely lightweight shoe, it certainly doesn't feel bulky or heavy, and I think it's the best running shoe to provide great cushioning for those who aren't used to the impact of running.
adidas Ultraboost Light Women's, from $196 at Adidas
Why we love it: A light and bouncy running shoe
Worth noting: Varying different styles
Materials: Various | Colour: Black and white
What you need to know
These shoes often make the top five in any list of best running shoes and have plenty of fans. There are some devotees of these cult sneakers who claim the adidas Ultraboost actually helps you run faster. We can't guarantee that, but we are pretty sure you'll love the cushioned, bouncy sole and the comfy, sock-like upper. Or you could take the words this reviewer: "By far the best sneakers on the market! I wear a lot of sneakers and these are certainly my most treasured pair.”
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14, $182 (down from $260) at New Balance
Why we love it: Thick cushioning makes them great beginner running shoes
Worth noting: Some may find they take a bit of time to break in
Materials: Fresh Foam, rubber outsole | Colour: Various
What you need to know:
Steph Claire Smith’s go-to running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam shoes are a brilliant place to start for beginner runners, or any runner who loves some good cushioning underfoot. Cloud-like and oh-so-comfortable, these shoes feature a super lightweight midsole cushioning that makes every landing and lift-off feel super easy. The mesh upper is also incredibly breathable, so you’re set even running into the warmer weather.
Best running shoes for trail running
Beyondfeel Women's Trail Running Shoe, $259 at lululemon
Why we love it: Slim and light while still being super grippy and durable for uneven trails
Worth noting: Runs small
Materials: Various | Colour: Grey blend, green/linen blend
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness Shopping Writer
I got my hands on the lululemon Beyondfeel shoes about three months ago and have barely stepped out of them since. A beautifully slim fit, I love the way these look and feel on my narrower, longer feet (I'm a size 10 and bulky shoes always make me feel like I have clown feet). With a mesh upper, the shoes feel non-bulky and breathable at the top, while micro-dotted TPU overlays still keep your feet protected from debris like rocks and gravel while running through more rugged areas. The high-abrasion rubber outsole with directional lugs is incredibly grippy and reliable for even the loosest of gravel or dirt tracks, and I always feel super supported, even while walking or running uphill on rocky, uneven bush tracks. The supercritical foam cushioning on these shoes also give each step an easy heel-to-toe curve, making walking or running feel cloud-like and light even while battling the toughest of surfaces.
I spend a lot of time bushwalking and enjoy running on trickier terrain, but have always been a little wary of slipping or tripping on uneven ground, as I've been known to be careless with my choice of footwear in the past. But I've found these shoes to be perfect for rougher ground and bush trails, as well as general road surfaces and easier paths- frankly, I feel like I can conquer anything with these kicks on. The slim shape makes them easy to pack in an overnight bag, and I am endlessly awed by just how reliably grippy they are on surfaces where I might sometimes be afraid of losing my footing. The lightweight feel makes them feel effortless to wear even on longer walks or runs, and the stylish colourways are cute enough to wear just out to coffee in my activewear. These shoes have me converted, big time.
Best running shoes for long-distance running
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Women's, from $69.95 (down from $127.98) at Amazon
Why we love it: Trusty support makes the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 an ideal road running shoe
Worth noting: Recommended to order half a size up from your regular dress shoe
Materials: Rubber, synthetic | Colour: Various
What you need to know
My mum, who we frequently refer to as Wonder Woman, is an avid marathon runner and sticks by Brooks running shoes religiously. She credits both the Brooks Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin 21 running shoes as being unique in that they are great for long distance and performance, simultaneously.
And she's not alone in her love for the running shoes. With more than 900 reviews on Google, these shoes from Brooks have a lot of fans who love that while they’re made for running, they’re just great all-purpose shoes. "This shoe has amazing support and cushioning! Absolutely love this shoe and I use it for running, walking and the gym," one reviewer wrote.
These well-loved runners have 'GuideRails' making them a great stability shoe to help your feet maintain a neutral position, along with DNA loft cushioning and crash pads to absorb shock and impact as you run.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 8800v14, $136 (down from $160) at Amazon
Why we love it: Versatile with an engineered mesh upper for a breathable and snug fit
Worth noting: Designed as an all-rounder
Materials: Breathable engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Colour: Various
What you need to know
If you want a shoe that claims to do it all, the New Balance Fresh Foam X is it. With the main attraction being versatility, these New Balance Fresh Foam shoes will support you if you're training for a serious run, or running to catch the train because you're seriously late for work. With fresh foam cushioning, an engineered mesh upper and an NDurance rubber outsole, these New Balance kicks promise to support you with snug breathability, withstanding any pavement you pound on short or long runs. These running shoes are also a great option if you have wide feet, as New Balance stocks a wide range and even an extra wide range in sizes.
New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite V4 Women's, $289.99 (down from $359.99) at The Athlete's Foot
Why we love it: The best ever race day shoe, hands down
Worth noting: You want to preserve carbon plates for race
Materials: | Colour: Green/white or orange/white
Tried and tested by Tara Meakins, Body+Soul Fitness Writer and Coogee Run Club Co-founder
As, in my humble opinion, the greatest race day shoe of all time, I couldn't gush enough about the FuelCell Supercomp Elite V4. Super lightweight yet with all the support and comfort you need, this pair is a race day dream and successfully saw me through the Gold Coast Marathon and Sydney Marathon in 2024. With a thinner carbon fibre plate, you get an 87 per cent energy return, making each race a PB. The brains at New Balance really knew what they were doing with this one and I have to say it's worth every single cent. Run to pick this one up, and you'll never look back!
Best everyday running shoes
adidas Supernova Rise Women's, $110 (down from $220) at adidas
Why we love it: Extra support and cushioning makes for a smoother run
Worth noting: Some say the shoe does run small
Materials: Dense foam, mesh upper | Colour: Various
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness Shopping Writer
I have a lot of neutral-coloured shoes (including my once champagne-coloured Hokas that have fallen victim to too many muddy runs), so I was super excited to get my hands on the adidas Supernova Rises in the all-new Semi Flash Aqua colourway. These have been credited by Women's Health as the best running shoe for every level, and I feel like that is quite accurate. The shoes are responsive and provide great energy return, while still allowing you to connect with the ground beneath your feet. These are not the cushiest, most cloud-like running shoes you will find, but I really enjoyed the heel support and dense foam support rods that seem to propel you off the pavement. I also loved the fit of these shoes, cradling your feet without squishing one single toe.
ASICS GT-2000 13 Women's, $240 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Lighter weight than usual for ASICS
Worth noting: I wouldn't wear if for longer than a 5K
Materials: Jacquard mesh upper, Rearfoot PureGEL™ technology, FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, OrthoLite™ X-30 sockliner, AHARPLUS™ heel plug rubber, AHAR™ LOW HARDNESS outsole material | Colour: Various
Tried and tested by Tara Meakins, Body+Soul Fitness Writer and Coogee Run Club Co-founder
I was impressed right away with how lightweight this shoe was, when traditionally I've found ASICS to create heavier pairs, making the GT-2000 13 a dream to run in. I always get the best fit out of this brand and am never left uncomfortable, and this style – with its infamous PureGEL technology – was no exception. Designed as a stable daily trainer, it offered plenty of support underfoot and made for a smooth journey every time. I'd say this is the perfect shoe for everyday runs, especially a 5K.
Best sustainably-made running shoes
Women's Tree Dasher 2, $240 at Allbirds
Why we love it: A carbon-neutral choice for your everyday miles
Worth noting: Made for everyday runs and light workouts
Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, SweetFoam® midsole | Colour: Various
What you need to know
If you’re after a trainer that will make you feel good about your environmental impact, these are a great option. These shoes are made from all-natural materials created from trees and sugarcane and are breathable and durable, as well as being super-supportive in all terrains. Tested over thousands of miles by both amateur and professional athletes over a year-long testing period, the midsole has been crafted using the world’s first carbon negative green foam. Reviews said they were "true to size, comfortable and most importantly non-slip", and that they "will be purchasing many more".
Best heavy-duty trainer
Altra Women's Outroad, from $163 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Designed with the arch support and shoe shape women need
Worth noting: Only available in one colour
Materials: Altra EGO™ foam, Rip Stop Mesh | Colour: Various
What you need to know
Altra is a brand that recognises how women's feet are (surprise!) different than men's feet, so they're creating some of the best running shoes for women. The women's shoes that Altra creates are designed for feet that have narrower heels and longer arches. In doing this, Altra shoes aim to blend seamlessly with the natural way we run, helping us kick even more fitness and running goals. These trail shoes by Altra are made for road running, but are highly equipped for a trail expedition. They have balanced cushioning and a wider toe box so you aren't squished. Great grip and bouncy foam help to make every step a breeze, no matter where you run. One shopper said: "These shoes are the most comfortable for long walks. I love these shoes!"
Brooks Cascadia 16, $159.95 (down from $249.95) at Brooks
Why we love it: A responsive shoe with adaptability for rough terrains
Worth noting: Best for trail running
Materials: Trailtack rubber, DNA LOFT v2 midsole cushioning | Colour: Various
What you need to know
Made for trail running, these shoes by Brooks offer extra cushioning and adaptability in the soles for any surface or rough terrain. There are drainage ports for water to escape and an extra 2mm of foam adds comfort on rough trails.
One buyer writes: "My go-to trail running and hiking shoe! It took a little period of break-in (felt a bit stiff at first) but after that they have become a favourite. The trails I run on involve a lot of loose and sharp rock, and these have held up surprisingly well for almost 300 miles in. Really solid stability for technical terrain – no sliding – and give the ankles a break without being too clunky."
With so many different types of running shoes on the market it can be hard to know which ones are the right ones for you. To help you choose the best running shoes for your health and fitness goals, we asked health and fitness writer and host of Body+Soul's Healthy-ish podcast, Felicity Harley, for her advice on what to look for when choosing women's running shoes.
Why is a good pair of running shoes important?
"Firstly, look for a running shoe that is right for the activity you’re undertaking, the speed at which you run – are you a distance or power runner – then consider the terrain you’re keen to tackle," Harley says.
"There are good all-rounder shoes on the market, but if you are a road runner during the week, light as a feather shoes are a good option. While when it comes to taking on trails on the weekend, you’ll need more protection around the ankle and you’ll need to invest in different pairs of shoes. Finding the perfect shoe can take some trial and error, but trust us, many people find their beloved brand and become fans for life."
What are the most important things to look for when buying running shoes?
"No matter what kind of running you're doing - sprint training, every day exercise, rough terrain or long distance - you want a pair of shoes that cushion and support the foot and fit you well," explains Harley. "Running shoes generally shouldn't need any 'wearing in' - they should feel comfortable the minute you put them on. Fit-wise, you want 1 to 1.5cm space at the end of the shoe, and remember that you'll likely always be wearing them with socks, so going slightly bigger is usually better than smaller if you're between sizes."
What are you going to use running shoes for?
"Do you want to loop the block in your suburban hood, bash through a bush track or knock out a few kilometres on the treadmill?" Harley asks. "Are you ready to tackle a half-marathon or marathon with a serious training schedule to boot? How often will you use them - days/hours per week? Determining your use will steer your shoe purchase."
"If you’re tackling a serious running schedule (think four or more days a week), then opt for a brand that specifically invests in research and technology to design a running-appropriate shoe like Hoka, ASICS or Brooks. If you’re more of a weekend runner and do a few laps of your local oval, then a diverse sports brand like Nike 0r adidas, which are often at cheaper price points, might be best."
Comfort is crucial when buying running shoes
"There’s nothing worse than running in a shoe that slips off the back of your heel, rubs a whopper of a blister or crunches your toenails up top - comfort is key," Harley insists.
"Your shoe should feel secure but not tight. Think about the biomechanics of your foot. Is your heel snug and does it grip through each stride? Your arch supported? Can you wiggle each of your toes? Then, when you’re running (most people hit the ground with the heel first), does the shoe flex and move naturally with your foot?
"Lighter shoes are obviously easier to lift off the ground with each stride, but might not offer the support needed, and remember, feet expand and sweat when you run so consider the materials with which it’s made. "
Do you need cushioning in your running shoes?
"Cushioning in a shoe determines how much force your body takes when your foot hits the ground. A highly cushioned shoe has a thicker material between the ground and your foot to buffer impact. Yet, a thinner one reflects how evolution designed us to move, to mimic barefoot running.
"It’s a paradox research often hopes to answer. Cushioned shoes can increase performance, according to a study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, yet a study published in Scientific Reports found cushioned shoes increase impact loading and, in turn, stiffness in the legs.
"Cushioning comes down to personal preference in many ways - do you want to feel like you’re running across giant marshmallows or not?"
Do you need to buy specifically men's or women's running shoes?
"Up until a few years ago, the same shoe was often marketed to both sexes (under the male and female banner) due to the gender gap in scientific research, but thankfully companies are now investing in female-based research and development to design shoes specifically for the female foot and body (we are not tiny men, as a study published in the Journal of American Podiatric Medical Association confirmed).
"Women’s feet are different - generally narrower at the heel with wider forefoot, and wider hips mean we tend to strike on the outside of the foot. Some companies pioneering in this space are Puma, adidas, Skechers."
Is there a difference between men and women’s feet?
The biggest difference between men and women’s feet is to do with the ball of the foot. Women usually have a narrower heel in relation to the circumference of the ball of their foot than men, so while unisex shoes can be fine in most circumstances, if you’re going to be running and putting extra pressure on your feet as you pound the pavement, it helps to get shoes that will support your particular kind of foot.
Do women run differently than men?
Generally speaking, women have wider hips than men which means their feet tend to hit the ground toward the outside of their soles. Again, generally, women are lighter than men and have less muscle mass, so women’s shoes are often lighter and softer as they have to manage less impact than men’s do. Generally speaking, you should try and avoid unisex shoes when it comes to running, as when you're going to be putting a lot of pressure and impact on your feet, it's better to buy a pair of shoes specifically designed for a male or female foot.
Our Expert
Felicity Harley hosts the Body+Soul podcasts Healthy-ish & Extra Healthy-ish, and is the author of Balance & Other B.S.
She launched Women's Health magazine and was editor for nine years. In 2012, Felicity was named one of Westpac's Australia's 100 Women Of Influence for her brainchild - the 'I Support Women In Sport' campaign, which also won national and international awards.
She holds a graduate diploma in Public Health.
How we chose these 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 looking at customer reviews.
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