Discover the top running shoe brands and models of 2023, ensuring your every stride is supported and comfortable.
Editor’s Note: As of October 6, 2023, we've revisited and updated our list of the finest running shoes for men following our latest round of comprehensive testing. Any pairs that are currently out of stock or no longer available have been replaced.
At our testing facility and with the invaluable input from our team of 275 dedicated runners, we continuously assess the latest running shoes on the market. Approximately half of our team consists of men who bring diverse running experiences to the table. Among them, you'll find elite athletes pushing their limits for Olympic Trials qualification, as well as those just starting or recovering from injuries. Our group encompasses individuals of all backgrounds, ages, shapes, and sizes, including full-time English teachers, new fathers, night-shift nurses, and grandfathers.
What unites them all is their unwavering passion for running, with each member logging at least 25 miles per week in their test shoes. We are confident that you'll find a shoe here that resonates with you as much as it does with our testers. Furthermore, you can explore a variety of options tailored to your specific preferences for stability and cushioning.
Best Running Shoes for Men
- Best Overall: Hoka Mach 5
- Best for Long Runs: Asics GlideRide 3
- Best Update: Asics Gel-Cumulus 25
- Best for Road Racing: Nike Vaporfly 3
- Best Budget Shoe: Nike Winflo 10
- Best Daily Trainer: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v13
Understanding Shoe Characteristics
Stability: In the realm of running shoe design, stability refers to a shoe's capacity to promote proper running form. Typically, this entails achieving an ideal level of pronation (read more about this here). If you're an overpronator, where your feet roll excessively inward, you'll appreciate the stability features in these shoes designed to counteract this motion. These may include firmer foams in critical midsole areas, like a medial post, or additional material along the sole's edge to prevent foot twisting, exemplified by Brooks's GuideRails on the Adrenaline GTS. If you don't overpronate, a "neutral" shoe, devoid of extra support features, is likely your preference, as it won't interfere with your natural stride.
Cushioning: Preferences in cushioning can vary widely among runners. Speed-focused runners might favor a firmer shoe that enhances their ground feel, while others prefer plush cushioning that absorbs impact forces. In the past, choosing a lightweight shoe often meant sacrificing cushioning. However, advancements in foam technology have eliminated this trade-off. Take, for instance, the Asics Superblast, one of the most cushioned shoes we've tested, weighing in at only 8.6 ounces for a men's size 9. Such cushioning is especially valuable on longer runs, as it can alleviate fatigue and discomfort in tired feet and joints.
Our Testing and Selection Process
To compile this list, we collaborated with our Runner-in-Chief, Jeff Dengate, who provided expert recommendations for the best running shoes for men. Additionally, we drew upon the feedback of hundreds of male runners on our wear-test team. After subjecting numerous pairs to rigorous testing and meticulously evaluating the data, we've identified the standout options that have garnered exceptional praise and ratings from our male testers. If you're seeking advice on finding the perfect fit and price for your next favorite pair, we have you covered in our guide on how to choose your ideal running shoe.
Best Overall: Hoka Mach 5
- Price: $140 at Zappos
- Weight: 8.2 oz (M9)
- Type: Neutral Road
- Drop: 5 mm
- Heel Stack: 29 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 24 mm
Pros:
- New Profly+ midsole for plush and responsive cushioning
- Lighter than the Mach 4
Cons:
- Limited traction in wet and wintry conditions
The Hoka Mach 5 is a versatile road shoe that combines the lightweight explosiveness of a racing shoe with the durability needed for long training sessions. It inherits design elements from Hoka's performance-oriented Carbon X 3 and Rocket X 2, such as propulsive energy return and a sleeker, more snug-fitting upper. Notably, the Mach 5 forgoes a carbon plate, opting instead for enhanced cushioning with a tweaked Profly+ midsole foam that delivers exceptional responsiveness and bounce.
While retaining its early-stage Meta-Rocker sole shape for swift heel-to-toe transitions, the Mach 5 sheds weight by omitting the oversized heel tab found in the Mach 4. This makes it a versatile shoe suitable for interval track workouts, long weekend runs, and recovery jogs.
Best for Long Runs: Asics GlideRide 3
- Price: $150 on Amazon
- Weight: 9.5 oz (M9)
- Type: Neutral Road
- Drop: 6 mm
- Heel Stack: 40 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 34 mm
Pros:
- Lighter than the GlideRide 2
- Smooth ride with impressive energy return
- Reliable outsole grip and durability
Cons:
- Thick upper mesh can become warm
- Lengthy laces
Asics's GlideRide 3 stands out as an exceptional choice for extended runs, outperforming even renowned cushioned shoes like the Asics Nimbus and Brooks Glycerin. One tester, experienced in 50K races and 10-hour backyard challenges, described it as a pure delight for running.
What sets the GlideRide apart is its innovative "GuideSole" design, featuring a blend of two soft foams and an aggressively curved rocker shape. Inside, a TPU plate elevates the toe, akin to a ski slope. While this geometry remains consistent with the GlideRide 2, the foams are now softer, with the closest layer to your foot being the responsive FlyteFoam Blast+. The plate is also more flexible. The GuideSole's objective is to reduce ankle movement, a proven efficiency-enhancing factor for certain runners, resulting in reduced energy expenditure. Our testers validate its effectiveness, though it may require a few runs to become accustomed to the sensation. If you prefer a more traditional ride, consider the Gel-Cumulus 25 below.
Best Update: Asics Gel-Cumulus 25
- Price: $140 on Amazon
- Weight: 9.4 oz (M9)
- Type: Neutral Road
- Drop: 8 mm
- Heel Stack: 38 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 30 mm
Pros:
- Lighter than the Gel-Cumulus 24
- Smooth ride with exceptional shock absorption
- Roomy and soft upper without feeling loose
Cons:
- Slightly runs long in size
- Upper mesh can retain heat and moisture
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 25, an upgrade to the renowned Gel-Cumulus line, delivers an impressive combination of lightweight performance and superior shock absorption. Its spacious, comfortable upper offers a snug fit without being constricting.
A notable enhancement is the integration of "Pure Gel," a lighter and softer version of Asics' signature cushioning technology. It's strategically placed in the heel to enhance landing smoothness and absorb impact, all while maintaining a lightweight feel. Unlike previous versions, the Gel-Cumulus 25 conceals the gel within the midsole, now composed of Flytefoam Blast+. This material swap not only adds 4mm to the midsole but also reduces overall shoe weight compared to the Gel-Cumulus 24.
While testers found the Cumulus to be pleasantly lightweight for a shoe with a "nice, thick, and foamy" workhorse sole, it does compromise some underfoot responsiveness. However, the trade-off results in exceptional comfort, making it a standout choice for many runners.
Best for Road Racing: Nike Vaporfly 3
- Price: $260 at Dick's Sporting Goods
- Weight: 7.0 oz (M10)
- Type: Road Racing
- Drop: 8 mm
- Heel Stack: 40 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 32 mm
Pros:
- More stability compared to the Vaporfly 2
- Exceptionally high energy return
Cons:
- Upper lacks flexibility
Nike has completely revamped the Vaporfly, aiming to create the lightest third version. In our men's size 12, it only shows a slight 0.1-ounce increase from the second version (with the initial Next% being 0.4 ounces lighter). While it might not be the absolute lightest, it still outshines competitors like the Asics MetaSpeed Sky+, Saucony Endorphin Pro 3, New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3, Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3, and Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 2.
One weight-saving measure was reshaping the midsole. Nike retained the Peba-based ZoomX foam for its exceptional energy return but added a cutout on the lateral sidewall (where support isn't necessary) and a small channel under the midfoot, trimming down material and shedding a couple of grams.
The shoe is further complemented by a carbon-fiber plate, a high-tech combination that enables elite marathoners to maintain a sub-five-minute pace. However, it's not exclusive to professionals; even at slower speeds, the Vaporfly 3 delivers outstanding propulsion and energy, enhancing efficiency and reducing fatigue. Overall, it ranks as one of the fastest and most responsive shoes we've ever tested.
Best Budget Shoe: Nike Winflo 10
- Price: $100 on Nike
- Weight: 10.1 oz (M9)
- Type: Neutral Road
- Drop: 10 mm
- Heel Stack: 33 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 23 mm
Pros:
- Comfortable and secure ankle collar
- Good outsole durability
- Spacious toebox compared to the previous version
Cons:
- Cushioning may lose some responsiveness on long runs
- Less ideal for racing and speedwork
For outstanding running performance and style under $100, the latest Nike Winflo is a compelling choice. Despite enhancements like a plusher collar and a new engineered mesh upper, the price remains unchanged. In the Winflo 9, Nike adjusted the Cushlon foam, resulting in a softer ride compared to previous versions (although it's not as responsive as premium ZoomX or React foams). Additionally, a larger Air unit now spans the full length of the shoe, facilitating a smoother heel-to-forefoot transition. These midsole improvements from the Winflo 9 carry over seamlessly to the Winflo 10. A standout feature of this year's model is its roomier forefoot and toebox.
Testers have praised the Winflo's cushioning for its balanced combination of lightness and shock absorption, even if it lacks exceptional bounce. One tester, who tends to have a strong heel strike, described it as being on par with their favorite Hokas. They also highlighted the shoe's excellent fit and comfort, noting the absence of pressure points, ample toebox space, and the secure hold provided by the smooth collar padding.
Best Daily Trainer: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v13
- Price: $140 on Zappos
- Weight: 10.6 oz (M9)
- Type: Neutral Road
- Drop: 10 mm
- Heel Stack: 32 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 22 mm
Pros:
- Thick, highly durable outsole rubber
- Improved midfoot lockdown with secure lacing
- Offers soft cushioning and a smooth ride
Cons:
- Heavier compared to the 880 v12
- Toebox feels slightly narrower than the v12
New Balance made a significant and well-considered update to the 880's midsole last year. It introduced a dual-density construction, combining a softer Fresh Foam section in the heel with a firmer, denser EVA-based material beneath the midfoot. This design provided a comfortable shock-absorbing experience for heel strikers, the majority of runners, while maintaining a smooth and lively transition. The v13 retains this successful midsole design and focuses on enhancing the upper. It swaps the upper with engineered mesh for a snugger fit, noticeably improving midfoot lockdown compared to its predecessor. (Testers noted a slightly narrower feel in this version, but the shoe is available in various widths to accommodate different foot shapes.)
One tester expressed their preference, saying, "The 880 still takes the prize for being my favorite line of shoes." The generous blown rubber outsole excels in high-volume marathon training, especially on slick roads and sidewalks. While not the lightest shoe, it maintains nimbleness, ensuring a smooth ride even during longer runs. If your daily routine transitions seamlessly from running to extended periods on your feet, the 880 v13 is an excellent choice that can keep up. (For those seeking less support and a bit more speed, consider the new FuelCell Rebel v3.)