By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave NationalGeographic.com and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.*
Shopping for the best running shoes for men can be a time-consuming task. There are so many great shoes these days, from tried-and-true favorites to newer brands with the latest tech. At the end of the day, the best running shoe for you will depend on several factors. Personal preference, the way you run (do you overpronate/underpronate?), and where you’ll be running are all important considerations.
We consulted with experts, dug through online reviews, and used our own experience to come up with a list of men’s running shoes we think will suit a variety of needs. After weeks of weighing the pros and cons, we chose the Hoka Mach 6 as the best overall running shoe for men. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and can handle a range of running workouts. Read on for all the reasons we liked this particular running shoe and more top picks.
Our picks for the best running shoes for men
• Best for overall running: Hoka Mach 6
• Best for budget running: Nike Pegasus 40
• Best for trail running: Hoka Speedgoat 5
• Best for road running: Asics Novablast 4
• Best for heavy runners: Saucony Triumph 22
• Best for cushioning: Brooks Ghost Max
• Best for arch support: Brooks Glycerin 21
• Best for waterproof running: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
The best men’s running shoes
After weighing durability, comfort, and performance range, these running shoes for men topped our list.
Best overall: Hoka Mach 6
Buy it now at Hoka
Why we like it: This model comes with Hoka’s signature cushioning so they stay comfortable on long, slow runs, yet they’re snappy enough for fast runs. They may not be as plush as other Hoka models, such as the Bondi 8 and the Clifton 9, but the Mach 6 offers more range and energy return. This pair can handle tempo runs as well as steadier recovery runs. Reviewers were particularly impressed with the upper’s breathability, helping to keep feet comfortable through hot weather and long treks. The dual-gusseted tongue stays in place without much need for readjustment.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers say that the Mach 6 feels smaller and narrower than its predecessor, the Mach 5. Go up a size or choose the wide option.
Product details: Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 5mm | Sizes: 7-14
(See the best running shoes for women)
Best cheap running shoes for men: Nike Pegasus 40
Buy it now at Dick's Sporting Goods
Why we like it: The Pegasus running shoes have been a favorite for decades. They don’t sacrifice quality for budget. These are also excellent for beginner runners who may find all the options overwhelming. You can wear them casually too. While the upper adds some plushness to the shoe, the midsole is quite firm compared to other daily trainers.
Keep in mind: Some runners find the shoe too heavy and lacking responsiveness.
Product details: Materials: Engineered mesh upper, “Nike React” midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Medium, extra Wide | Heel drop: 10mm | Sizes: 7.5-14
Best trail running shoes for men: Hoka Speedgoat 5
Buy it now at Hoka
Why we like it: The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is built for the demands of trail running, with a “Vibram Megagrip” outsole and a protective toe cap. Although the midsole is cushioned, the shoe is light enough to feel comfortable on technical trails. We also love the thinness of the gusseted tongue, which feels sufficiently locked down.
Keep in mind: While the Speedgoat gets lighter with every iteration, it wouldn’t be our first option for a “fast” trail running shoe.
Product details: Materials: Engineered double-layer mesh upper, foam midsole, “Vibram Megagrip” outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 4mm | Sizes: 7-15
Best road running shoes for men: Asics Novablast 4
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: The Asics Novablast 4 is a well-rounded trainer. It’s versatile enough to handle easy recovery runs and faster fartlek sessions. The trampoline-inspired outsole gives the shoe a bouncy, responsive feel. The semi-gusseted tongue wing keeps the tongue in place without losing the space. We also appreciate the small ventilating holes in the toe box, that help keep the shoe cool and dry on hotter days. Overall, the Novablast 4 performs well and is made of durable materials that we think can withstand the mileage.
Keep in mind: The Novablast 4 isn’t the lightest or most cushioned shoe on the market.
Product details: Materials: Woven upper, “Flytefoam Blast Plus Eco” midsole, exposed foam outsole | Width: Standard | Heel drop: 8mm | Sizes: 6-15
Best men’s running shoes for heavy runners: Saucony Triumph 22
Buy it now at Saucony
Why we like it: The Saucony Triumph 22’s carbon rubber outsole impressed reviewers. We appreciated the wider midfoot, which can add stability that many heavier runners may need. The shoe is also heavily cushioned with Saucony’s “PWRRUN PB” foam, helping to provide a soft landing without reducing the energy return. Running shoes with more cushion is better for heavier runners, says Lori Grant, a podiatrist at Orlando Health in Florida.
“More cushion means more shock absorption and can help with the impacts on the knees, hip, and back,” she says.
Keep in mind: Some runners found the thicker upper made the Triumph 22 feel heavy.
Product details: Materials: “Ortholite sockliner upper,” “PWRRUN PB” foam midsole, carbon rubber outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 10mm | Sizes: 7-15
(Why the world's oldest sport is still one of the best exercises)
Best running shoes for men with cushioning: Brooks Ghost Max
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: When it comes to cushioning, the Brooks Ghost Max delivers a ton via its “DNA Loft v2” midsole. Adding to its comfort, the shoe has a “GlideRoll Rocker” design, which helps reduce the energy required to move your foot from heel to toe. These qualities aren’t just great for running; they also help make these shoes a pleasure to wear while walking. We also appreciate that the Brooks Ghost Max is certified carbon-neutral and has the American Podiatry Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance.
Keep in mind: Some runners have found the Ghost Max lacking in stability. Others have said that the outsole isn’t as durable as they had hoped.
Product details: Materials: “DNA Loft v2” foam midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Medium, wide, extra wide | Heel drop: 6mm | Sizes: 7-15
Best running shoes for men with arch support: Brooks Glycerin 21
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: The Brooks Glycerin 21 is our choice for men who need great arch support in their running shoes. Thanks to the nitrogen-infused “DNA Loft v3” foam midsole and heel-to-toe drop, these shoes are also a great option for heel strikers. Lighter than the Brooks Ghost Max, the Glycerin 21 has a broad heel, making them more stable than most neutral shoes.
Keep in mind: While the upper is comfortable and cushioned, some reviewers said these shoes are too hot and lack ventilation for running in warmer months.
Product details: Materials: Knit upper, “DNA Loft v3” foam midsole, “RoadTack” rubber outsole | Width: Medium, wide | Heel drop: 10mm | Sizes: 7-15
Best waterproof running shoes for men: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
Buy it now at Nike
Why we like it: The Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex is built with a waterproof upper that helps keep you on track through wet weather and across damp trails. We love the built-in ankle gaiter, which helps block gravel and moisture from getting in. The high-abrasion rubber outsole helps ensure durability and traction, making it suitable for various terrains.
Keep in mind: These shoes run small. Some reviewers suggested these shoes may not be as durable on trails.
Product details: Materials: Gore-Tex invisible fit upper, “Nike React” foam midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Standard | Heel drop: 9.5mm | Sizes: 6-15
How we chose the best running shoes for men
Our research for finding the best men’s running shoes included third-party reviews, brand reputation, value, quality of materials, and expert recommendations. We compared and cross-referenced these attributes, as well as personal experience, for this list.
- Third-party reviews: We looked at existing reviews from reputable sources and considered the experiences of actual runners and buyers. This includes screening through online forums and verified reviews.
- Expert opinions: We consulted running experts and podiatrists to assess whether the shoes we examined helped promote foot health and enhance performance across levels.
- Personal testing: We tested many of the shoes to ensure they meet our comfort, durability, and support standards.
Tips for buying men’s running shoes
Support
For runners, it’s important to find shoes that offer good support. Whether you have flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches, the proper support can help prevent injuries and create a different running experience. Many running shoe stores can test your gait to help you determine the type of support you need.
Fit
Proper fit is crucial for running shoes. Grant recommends sizing up from your usual dress shoe size when choosing running shoes. Shoes that are too narrow or too small can cause blisters and bruised toenails.
Type
Some running shoes are built to handle certain conditions better than others. Road running shoes differ from trail running shoes when it comes to cushioning, support, and durability. If you primarily run on paved roads, Grant recommends choosing running shoes made for the type of running you plan to do, whether it’s road running or trail running. Grant also points out that the soles tend to differ between these two types of running shoes.
Materials
When shopping for good running shoes for men, consider the weather conditions you tend to run in and the surfaces you run on. Runners who live in wetter areas should look for shoes made with quick-dry or waterproof materials and high-grip outsoles. Runners who enjoy technical trail runs may want a lightweight shoe with more protection around the front to guard against stones and tree roots.
Heel
The heel drop, also known as the heel-to-toe drop, refers to the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Many runners have a preferred heel drop. Generally, a higher heel drop can be better for heel strikers, while a lower drop suits midfoot or forefoot strikers. However, some runners prefer zero-drop shoes. The best way to find your preference is to test shoes with a different heel drops.
Frequently asked questions
What brand of shoe is best for running?
The best running shoes for men depend on individual foot shape and preference. Some runners prefer a zero-drop shoe, while others love the feeling of a maximalist, higher heel-drop experience.
What running shoes do top athletes wear?
Top athletes often run in brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics with a history of high-performance and top-quality materials.
Should you go up or down a size in running shoes?
It’s generally recommended to go up half a size or a full size in running shoes to leave room for foot expansion during runs. This can also vary as some running shoes may run small or large.
Iona Brannon is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on Instagram.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
