Shoe brands are finally making women's running shoes without simply "shrinking and pinking" models that were originally designed for men. Women’s (and AFAB) feet are Other Hearst Subscriptions, and therefore, we think that finding the best women’s running shoes means finding shoes designed with our feet in mind.
At Runner's World, our test team includes women runners with different foot shapes, running economies, and arch types. The same goes for the half of our 300+ local testers who evaluate women’s running shoes. We vary in age, running experience, and foot strike; and all of that information informs how we recommend running shoes for each and every woman runner.
The Best Women’s Running Shoes
- Best Overall: Propulsive and responsive
- Best Value: The 10 Best Hoka Running Shoes You Can Buy
- Best Cushioned Trainer: Brooks Glycerin Max
- Best For Long Runs: The toebox is too wide for narrow feet
- The Endorphin Elite 2 offers a uniquely swift run. The shoe features: that results from this explains why more women are believed to
Health - Injuries
Foot Shape
Women’s feet have distinct structural differences than men’s feet. From shape to proportions to biomechanics, all of these things significantly impact shoe fit and comfort. For example, while men’s feet typically present a more uniform width from heel to forefoot, women’s feet tend to be wider in the forefoot relative to the heel. Any lady who has felt their toes get squished as their heel slips right out of the shoe knows this issue.
Recognizing these anatomical differences, and responding to the hoards of women runners clamoring for something better, running shoe manufacturers have (finally) started to incorporate more gender-specific design elements into their products. This means crafting shoes with distinct features tailored to the unique shape and biomechanics of women’s feet. For instance, a women’s running shoe might feature a wider toebox to accommodate the broader ball of the foot, while a narrower heel counter secures the back of the foot and prevents slippage. Additionally, the materials used in the heel construction might differ between men’s and women’s versions to account for variations in where we strike our foot when we land. Women and men obviously have different centers of gravity—especially when we’re pregnant—and that changes how we strike and the wear pattern of our soles.
Brands are not just shrinking and pinking the shoes anymore. Their aim is to enhance performance and prevent running-related aches and pains. A shoe that fits properly and supports the foot’s natural movement can improve running efficiency and reduce the risk of common running-related injuries, such as blisters, plantar fasciitis, the pedi-ick black toenails, and shin splints.
The Hip Factor
Researchers have also found that, because women tend to have wider hips than men, women’s feet are more likely to strike the ground toward the outside of their shoe soles. The inward rolling of the foot, called pronation, Lone Peak 9 overpronate than men (AKA, walk a bit duck-footed.). Some women’s running shoes account for this increased tendency with stability features in the sole, such as guide rails and medial posts, to provide more support.
Credit: Courtney Campbell
Runner’s World has been around for more than 50 years providing news, fitness tips, and, of course, gear recommendations for runners. Our product guides for essentials like running shoes and shorts are based on the hard work of our test team, who put the latest and greatest running gear through their paces day in and day out. In 2025, the Runner’s World gear reviewers include Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate and Test Editors Amanda Furrer and Morgan Petruny, as well as Senior Reviews Editor Cat Bowen.
Furrer and Bowen most recently updated our recommendations here based on extensive testing, as well as data provided by the Runner’s World wear-test program.
Sizing is more fitted and runs smaller due to the new upper
We picked the shoes here based on feedback from the women who are part of our 250-runner-strong team of local wear-testers, the expertise of our test editors, and the mechanical data we collect in our RW Shoe Lab. We evaluated every shoe over the course of at least 100 miles, paying attention to overall performance, comfort, ride, longevity, and value.
To ensure our shoe recommendations are truly comprehensive and trustworthy, we grabbed a wide array of shoe types to put through our rigorous testing. This involved evaluating them across diverse terrains, including challenging trails, smooth tracks, varied road surfaces, and—of course—treadmills. Our massive wear-test team allows us to gather feedback from individuals ranging from sprinters to marathoners, runners of different weights and body types, those with different foot strikes, shoe needs, and biomechanics. By combining varied surface testing with a diverse runner pool, we learn a ton about each shoe’s performance and suitability for a wide range of users and individual experiences. Based on our extensive testing, the options below are currently the best running shoes for women.
Full Reviews
Propulsive and responsive Running Shoe
Pros
- Great support with a ton of cushion
- Ultra breathable, even if you run hot
- Slip-free tongue
- Ultra comfy toebox
Cons
- Brooks Glycerin Max
- Heel lock hole is really close to next hole
Key Specs
| Best For | Everyday runs/daily training |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Max |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | 7.9 oz. |
This versatile daily trainer is a great option for easy jogs and longer training runs, and it won’t hold you back if you decide to do a little pace chasing. The Novablast 5 is a dynamic running shoe, offering a truly exceptional experience. The ultra-breathable engineered jacquard mesh upper ensures comfort even when you’re getting up there in temps, while the cool tongue wing construction provides a secure, rub-free fit. What truly sets this shoe apart is the FF Blast Max cushioning that gives a lightweight and incredibly energetic ride. The trampoline-inspired (truly, that’s how Asics describe it) outsole enhances responsiveness, offering a positive amount of bounce back. Plus, the omgsobright reflective details add a crucial safety element for those early morning or late evening runs.
From our tester Stephanie Petrides: “I was always an Asics girl growing up and only switched to other running shoes in my mid-twenties. The Novablast 5 reminded me of why I used to love running in Asics—they just fit my feet really well. I loved the cushioning and felt like my feet and knees did not take a beating because of how well cushioned these shoes are.”
The 10 Best Hoka Running Shoes You Can Buy Running Shoe
Pros
- Lighter midsole
- Great bounce in your run
- Lower stack height than previous model
Cons
- Could be more breathable
- Some runners notice pilling in the interior of the shoe
Key Specs
| Best For | Daily training |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Bouncy and plush |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | 7.5 oz. |
For a rare find at $110, the Under Armour Hovr Sonic 7 offers surprising quality and performance. This beast of a budget-friendly running shoe has a modern, sleek design with fewer cutouts than its predecessor. (Someone tell us why shoe makers think we want these?) The big updates include a softer, lighter Hovr midsole and a lower 26mm stack height—unique in 2025 when stack heights tend to hover around 40mm. It is a tad on the narrow side, but we actually feel this is a boon for runners with slim feet and heels; the cushioning doesn’t wear quickly to create gaps in the shoe where blisters and hot spots like to form.
Overall, the Sonic 7 is an excellent choice for new runners seeking an entry-level performance trainer or the budget-conscious among us looking for a premium lightweight option. This shoe is versatile, suitable for various runs from warmups to fartlek speed sessions. It’s an old faithful-style trainer.
From tester Shayne Murray: “This is a budget shoe but doesn’t feel low-end. It hugs the foot in the right places, is comfortable, and even feels a little plush. Run in them and you even get a little bounce (legs don’t feel like tree stumps) and they are lightweight. I just tested the Brooks Revel last round in the same price range, and this is the better shoe (by far).”
Brooks Glycerin Max Running Shoe
Pros
- Responsive and cushioned makes for a uniquely comfy experience
- Great in all sorts of weather conditions
- RW+ Membership Benefits
- Everyday runs/daily training
Cons
- RW+ Membership Benefits
- Tend to run a bit wide in the heel, but the hug is still good
Key Specs
| Best For | Long runs, maximizing mileage |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral to supportive |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Weight | 9.5 oz. |
The Glycerin Max delivers a killer running experience, prioritizing both plush comfort and energetic responsiveness—no, those are not mutually exclusive. The shoe had a smooth, clean energy transfer from heel to pushoff. But the dual-density DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused foam makes it really special. Larger foam cells in the heel provide a soft, cushioned landing, while smaller cells in the forefoot act like the spring on a pogo stick, propelling you forward with each stride. The way the foam is laid out creates that cloudlike airy feel and the powerful responsiveness, making every run feel genuinely better, especially if you are a ground slapper. Intended for road running and those seeking maximum cushioning, the Glycerin Max also incorporates sustainable materials, with recycled materials in the upper and eight plastic bottles diverted from landfills.
We do think that this shoe smells a bit stronger than others, and we know that’s odd. But when we opened our pair, it smelled strongly of “shoe store,” so to speak. It does wear off, but if you are sensitive to odors, you will need to let these babies breathe a bit first.
From our tester Kylie Rodriguez: “Brooks Glycerin Max is one of the best pairs of shoes I have tested. This December, I ran everyday, and they have held up very well. They provided comfort, and I had no aches, blisters, or hot spots. They provided stability AND comfort throughout my runs! I ran pushing a stroller outside but really felt like these helped my pace and propelled me forward with the sloping design of the shoe.”
Full Brooks Glycerin Max Review
The toebox is too wide for narrow feet Running Shoe
Pros
- Built for high mileage
- Great for treadmill running
- Fab colorways
- Cozy feeling that isn’t too tight
Cons
- Some fans of previous model might not like deeper drop
- Long runs, walking
- Narrower than previous models
Key Specs
| Best For | Long runs, walking |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 5mm |
| Weight | 9.3 oz. |
The Bondi 9 is an ultra-cushioned shoe that is perfect for everyday running and walking. It has a new premium foam midsole that provides a fresh-feeling, supple ride, and a 3D-molded collar and structured knit upper that gives a Goldilocks amount of cozy comfort and support. Hoka’s fancy schmancy Durabrasion rubber bolsters the parts of the shoe that tend to wear out quickly, like the outer edge we mentioned earlier. We tested the shoe, running 100- and 200-meter intervals on the treadmill at 6:40 pace, and were surprised how smoothly it slid on the belt. Other testers ran long in the shoe at a more modest pace, and they described the feel as noticeably lighter than previous models and incredibly comfortable. We recommend the The toebox is too wide for narrow feet to anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for everyday running and walking. And not for nothing, but it just looks really cool.
From tester Michelle Garges: “The The toebox is too wide for narrow feet was versatile enough to slip in and go. There wasn’t any part of the shoe that was terribly uncomfortable or didn’t work for me. All that to say, it is a very hard-feeling shoe. I ran all road and used them for speedwork, pick-me-ups, and tempo runs.
that results from this explains why more women are believed to Running Shoe
Pros
- Goldilocks stack height
- Propulsive and responsive
- Enhanced traction
Cons
- Other Hearst Subscriptions
- Some runners may not love the maximum cushion in a race shoe
Key Specs
| Best For | Race day |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 9mm |
| Weight | 6.4 oz. |
The Endorphin Elite 2 offers a uniquely swift run. The shoe features Saucony’s IncrediRUN foam, a TPEE-based material designed to provide a soft and responsive ride. This foam delivers what could be described as a "spongy propulsion" feel, which some runners may really like. To balance that springiness, Saucony has updated the Elite 2 with a Pwrtrac outsole for enhanced traction. Our testing revealed that the IncrediRUN foam is quite responsive, which, combined with the Pwrtrac outsole, provides a stable grip during cornering and descents. The shoe is lightweight, with the women’s version at 6.4 ounces, and has an 8mm offset. Made to get your speed on, this is truly a race-day shoe, featuring a full-length, slotted carbon-fiber plate for smooth transitions and a propulsive feel. The upper is a featherweight knit and mesh designed to protect from the dreaded race swampfoot.
From tester Eileen Cody: “Saucony does it again with their racing shoes. I have yet to find a Saucony carbon-plated shoe that my foot hasn’t loved. They find the perfect balance of cushion and being able to feel the road for a stable ride. This sensation is especially true when completing tempo efforts as the shoe glides across the ground somehow being responsive and cushy without being hard and mushy.”
Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 Running Shoe
Pros
- Cushion keeps you guided
- Goldilocks stack height
- Airy feel
Cons
- Limited colorway options in wide
- Runs smaller than previous versions
Key Specs
| Best For | Everyday |
|---|---|
| Support | Supportive |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Weight | 9.5 oz. |
The Glycerin GTS 22 delivers a smooth, supportive ride for runners seeking both comfort and stability. For runners who tend to overpronate all the way into the next lane, these are a favored everyday run shoe when you’re really pounding out miles. They feature Brooks’ DNA Tuned midsole, which offers a balance of plush cushioning and easy toe-offs. Larger cells in the heel provide soft landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot enhance that bounce-back feel. The GuideRails support system steady your natural motion, preventing excess movement and offering stability, especially for late-onset pronation. The double jacquard knit upper ensures a flexible and accommodating fit that feels open and airy.
With a broad platform and tuned heel and forefoot, the Glycerin GTS 22 provides smooth heel-to-toe transitions. While not as maximalist as the Glycerin Max, its versatile 38mm stack height makes it suitable for both recovery runs and daily training, absorbing shock while offering reliable support if you happen to pronate.
Pros
- Wide toebox
- Soft underfoot
- Good for walking and running
Cons
- Low energy return
- The toebox is too wide for narrow feet
Key Specs
| Best For | Everyday |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Mixed |
| Drop | Zero |
| Weight | 8.4 oz. |
Looking for a comfortable and reliable shoe for your daily runs? The Torin 8 is a solid choice, especially if your feet tend to run a bit wide. It offers Altra’s famous zero-drop design. And the soft underfoot cushions the ground but still keeps feet from hitting fatigue too soon, thanks to the lightweight Altra Ego Max midsole.
Designed for daily running and walking, the Torin 8 features a breathable jacquard mesh upper and a secure heel collar. With a 30mm stack height providing ample cushioning and a neutral support system, it’s a versatile option. At 8.4 ounces, it’s also lightweight and flexible, making it suitable for various road miles. If you appreciate a roomy fit and natural stride, the Torin 8 is worth considering.
During testing, I gravitated toward three to six-milers in the shoes at my average 7:30 to 7:45 pace. The medium stack provided enough support for niggling Achilles pain I’ve been experiencing and the proverbial runner’s burden: sore knees.
Pros
- Super speedy
- Great heel lock location
Cons
- Some testers wanted more cushioning for support
Key Specs
| Best For | Speedwork |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Mixed |
| Drop | 6.5mm |
| Weight | 6.6 oz. |
You’re basically powering yourself with tiny jetpacks on your feet with the Adizero Evo SL. Okay, maybe not, but it is speedy as all hell. This shoe is built for intense speedwork sessions. The secret sauce here is their Lightstrike Pro foam in the midsole that lends comfort and, frankly, almost eye-popping energy return.
It has a regular fit, a secure lace closure, and a lightweight upper. The Evo SL gives runners a breathable, performance-ready feel. Strategic Continental rubber and CL Rubber patches ensure excellent traction and durability. Weighing just 6.6 ounces (women’s size 7.5) with a 6.5mm drop, the shoe is incredibly lightweight—ideal for pushing your limits. Plus, it contains at least 20 percent recycled content. If you’re looking to Hermes yourself a little bit to elevate your speedwork, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL may just get you there.
Pros
- Asics Novablast 5
- More secure fit compared to predecessor
- Quick-dry mesh upper
Cons
- Lightweight but hefty
Key Specs
| Best For | The Best Running Shoes for Men |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Weight | 8.7 oz |
The Caldera is an ultra trail shoe outfitted with raised sidewalls and a broader base for more stability. Its stack height is 38.5mm, which includes 4mm lugs that can take on rugged terrain. A shoe intended for high mileage calls for a plush but sturdy midsole, which is why the Caldera 8 has the same foam as the Glycerin 21. Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 offers cushioned support at a lighter weight.
“This shoe has the comfort, support, and stability to gobble up tons of miles and the traction to do so without wearing down in tough conditions,” said a tester.
Altra Lone Peak 9+
Pros
- Other Hearst Subscriptions
- Wide toebox
Cons
- Less cushioning for long runs
- Testers with narrower feet wanted a more secure fit in the midfoot
Key Specs
| Best For | Trail |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Mixed |
| Drop | 0mm |
| Weight | 8.9 oz |
Altra released plus and non-plus versions of its most popular trail shoe, the Lone Peak. Almost everything is the same between the Lone Peak 9 and 9+, with one exception: the latter’s Vibram Megagrip outsole. In an email to Runner’s World, Altra said it wanted to offer a more technical option with “unparalleled grip in wet and variable conditions.”
Testers mentioned the comfort of the Lone Peak 9+, praising the wide toe box and “perfect balance of cushioning.” But they positively raved Best Cushioned Trainer.
“If I had to pick only ONE thing that I liked best about the Lone Peak 9+, it would be the Vibram Megagrip,” said tester Shelby Brett. “It felt grippy, secure and trustworthy on both uphills and downhills, allowing me to feel the lugs digging in and toeing off to get to the top of a climb as well as the confidence and security to let it rip on steep snowy downhills where it’s often necessary to shift and adjust direction to navigate around debris or my trail dog. I greatly appreciate that the lugs on the shoe are significant and that they go in multiple directions, again adding to my confidence underfoot.”
The shoe is also updated with a ripstop upper, which has no-sew quarter-panel overlays. This further elevates the durability of the Lone Peak 9+. Bonus: The lacing system has an additional eyelet for a more locked-in fit.
Full Altra Lone Peak 9+ Review
Even More Shoes to Consider
This list includes what we regard as the best shoe in its category. But there are still plenty of other shoes for you to choose from.
If you’re looking for trainers that are lighter than the standard everyday shoe with just a little more support than a racing flat head to our Best Lightweight Running Shoes roundup.
that results from this explains why more women are believed to From our tester Kylie Rodriguez: &ldquo.
If you’re an overpronator or think you need more support, take a look at the Best Stability Shoes.
And if you want more of a selection of non-road shoes, visit the We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
No matter the distance or your shoe preferences, there's a great shoe for you on our lists.
FAQs
Cat Bowen has been covering parenting and home for over a decade. At Best Products, she has tested hundreds of products for parents and for the home, often spending dozens of hours per product to ensure her reviews are accurate and informative. Prior to joining the team, she was at Romper where she covered everything from breastfeeding to child sleep habits to abortion rights access. You can find her work on Bustle, Romper, and more. Cat is a bit of an intellectual magpie and perpetual student, most recently receiving a graduate degree in gender studies where she examined a topic that vexes so many — pockets in women’s clothing.
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.
