The Best Running Shoes For Men
Running is one of the most universal ways of breaking a sweat and burning a few calories. Whether you're a casual jogger who sets out a few times a week to stay fresh and focussed, a regular gym-goer who tends to end up on the treadmill, or an aspiring athlete pushing yourself to the limit with each new day, you'll need a dependable pair of running shoes. Choosing the right footwear can improve your comfort and performance and help to avoid the development of podiatric issues in the long run.
What to Look For
While you search for your favorite running shoes, we suggest focusing on a few key qualities: excellent padding, breathable and lightweight uppers, and compatibility with a variety of running surfaces. We love the comfy design of the Under Armour Charged Asserts, making them a great all-rounder. While they do have a great grip and responsiveness on track and concrete, they fall short in more wild terrains. If you tend to venture into unchartered territory during your runs, The New Balance 481 trail runners are excellent for anyone with a taste for the wilderness, with the trade-off of a little added weight. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Under Armour Charged Assert 9
Charge ahead into the great unknown with a sneaker built for champions. Drawing on Under Armour’s extensive sporting research and development, this refined design promises performance optimization. Lightweight construction can sometimes signify flimsy materials, but you can be sure these shoes will be able to take a beating thanks to the durable leather overlay that lines the toebox and heel. Plus, the perforated mesh upper helps your feet breathe when they’re hot. This dependable option could become your hardy training companion for some time to come.
Pros:
- The charged cushion midsoles provide impressive responsiveness during sprints.
- We appreciate that the detailed sizing chart walks you through every step to finding the perfect fit.
Cons:
- The fabric upper will absorb liquid like a sponge, so these shoes aren’t a great option in the rain.
Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 3.0
Contemporary ergonomics
The Lite Racer Adapt series draws on years of expertise, resulting in a sporting shoe unlike any other. At first sight, these sneakers are set apart from the rest with their unique aesthetic, and these design choices aren’t random. Their unique shape is largely a result of the patented Cloudfoam midsoles. This delicate material cushions each step, offering you the comfort to keep pushing on when the going gets tough.
Pros:
- The full mesh upper offers omnidirectional airflow for maximum breathability.
- This slip-on design means you don’t have to stall to tie your laces when you’re leaving in a hurry.
- As part of Adidas’ Primegreen promise, these shoes have a 50% recycled upper and contain no traces of virgin polyester.
Cons:
- The laceless design might not offer a tight enough fit for all.
Asics Gel-Venture 7
Cloud runner
Get your hands on an athletic classic with these updated running shoes from Asics. Few soles boast the shock-absorptive qualities of this patented Gel technology, which brings a cushioning spring that will see you glide over track or field with poise. Ortholite X-40 sock liners provide an additional layer of rebound underfoot, and their absorptive construction effectively manages excessive moisture buildup inside. All things considered, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a comfier option.
Pros:
- These shoes are offered in a huge range of styles, from subtle monotones to bright color combinations. Thanks to that, it should be easy to find an option to please your eye.
- These supremely comfortable soles aren’t just great for athletes; we found that they can be a great choice for those suffering from plantar fasciitis or other podiatric ailments.
Cons:
- The shoelaces on the Gel-Venture 7s are thinner and flatter than older models, meaning that some might find them trickier to tie.
New Balance 481 V3
Trail blazers
If your regular running route takes you off the beaten track, you might be looking for a footwear option that’s a little more equipped for the great outdoors than the average pair of running shoes. Enter the New Balance 481 V3, an optimized solution for trail running. These all-terrain rubber outsoles can handle most of the harshest natural obstacles with ease, from waterlogged grass to thick mud and gravel. Once you’re laced into this resilient pair, you’ll find the freedom to make your own path.
Pros:
- The Cush+ midsole padding provides a soft, satisfying step whether you’re jogging or sprinting.
- Comfort collars hug each ankle tightly, giving you a firm fit that prevents irritation and rubbing.
- The ultra-soft comfort inserts offer a protective inner layer and give you the option to switch insoles at your leisure.
Cons:
- The all-terrain protection makes these shoes a little bulkier than alternatives.
Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 4.0
Effortless beginnings
When life gets busy, we’re often left looking for solutions to save time so that we can dive right into the task at hand. This is especially true when it comes to exercising, where it helps to eliminate any mental obstacles to ensure we can’t make excuses. This laceless design from Adidas takes all the hassle out of strapping on your shoes, providing you the luxury of jumping into your run with poise and speed.
Pros:
- This mesh upper gives a light, sock-like feel that will let you glide down the track unimpeded.
- Adidas’ patented Cloudfoam midsole combines with a lightweight rubber sole to offer excellent cushioning with every step.
- This slip-on design isn’t just great for running. The comfort, ease of wear, and distinctive design of these shoes might tempt you to adopt them as your daily footwear.
Cons:
- Without laces, correct sizing counts. Even a little excess room could leave you feeling uncomfortable during extended wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are running shoes also a good choice for everyday wear?
While you might initially intend to purchase a good pair of shoes for the track, you may well end up with more than you bargained for. The comfortable padding and breathability of running shoes, paired with their sleek sporting aesthetic, can make them a great option for everyday wear. These shoes can be especially suitable if you suffer from podiatric conditions that require a little extra cushioning and comfort during a day on your feet.
Can I machine-wash my running shoes?
Running shoes are typically made of synthetic materials, and many assume that this means they’re safe to clean in the washing machine. But there’s still a risk of damaging or shrinking your shoes if they’re exposed to the excessive heat and moisture of a washing machine. For best cleaning results, you can purchase affordable shoe cleaning kits online.
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