The 5 Best Women’s Running Shoes
The right running shoes can improve your run, protect your feet, and reduce injuries. Consumer Reports can verify that it can be a very complicated process to find just the right running shoes for your arch type, body type, gait, orthotics, and running style. That’s why we’re here to help you find some of the very best running shoes for runners of all levels.
What Are Women’s Running Shoes?
Running shoes are specialty shoes that offer additional cushioning, flexing at the bar of the foot, and adequate traction and stability, so that you can run safely and comfortably. Running shoes can be very expensive, but if they suit your running style, then they can last comfortably through years of wear and hundreds of miles of tread.
If you aren’t sure which shoes are right for you, visit a professional running center and have them assess your running style while you run on a treadmill. They may take additional measurements and can then make an expert customized recommendation. You can also use online shoe advisers for quick assistance, like the one offered by Runner’s World.
Top 5 Women’s Running Shoes
Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 15 Shoe
The Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 15 Shoes are ideal for most feet. They work well for wide feet and have enhanced cushioning, stability, flexibility, and arch support. They have breathable linings, which can help wick moisture away to keep your feet cool and dry. Thanks to the comfortable, responsive cushioning, runners find these are comfortable to run in for long extended periods, like marathon runs.
They feature a wide base, a mid-foot shank and foam that becomes firmer toward the inside edge of each shoe, and an adjustable saddle design for targeted support. The extended crash pad also allows for full ground contact and a great heel-to-toe transition. The Omega Flex Grooves allow for more natural forefoot movement and fluidity.
These are recommended by ConsumerSearch and are some of the best-selling running shoes on Amazon. They are also commonly recommended by professional running stores around the country. They are designed to last for years, so they offer a great value.
ASICS Women's GEL-Nimbus 17 Running Shoe
If you have issues in your feet or heels, you may want to try the ASICS Women's GEL-Nimbus 17 Running Shoes. They offer unmatched cushioning, stability, support, and comfort for all types of runners, including underpronators. They feature a padded collar, asymmetrical lacing system, and breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool and dry.
The FluidFit upper can also aid in preventing blisters. They have rearfoot and forefoot gel cushioning to reduce the shock during impact and toe-off phases. The FluidFit upper technology utilizes multidirectional stretch mesh and stretch reinforcements to create a more secure fit. They also feature a gait-enhancing impact guidance system, vertical flex grooves, and a supportive heel-clutching system.
These are very durable, so they should last you reliably for years. They are recommended by Runner’s World and are an Amazon best-seller. They are also backed by more than 900 five-star reviews on Amazon. If these don’t work for your style, consider the other highly rated shoes from ASICS, like ASICS Women's GEL-Venture 5 Running Shoe, ASICS Women's GEL-Venture 4 Running Shoe, or ASICS Women's GEL-Kayano 21 Running Shoe.
Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 11 Running Shoe
The lightweight Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 11 Running Shoes offer enhanced comfort and control. They work well for overpronators and for runners who frequently experience leg fatigue because they are springy enough to add serious cushioning to your run. They feature supple internal straps, which hug the foot for a more secure fit. The Fan Wave technology within the midsole lends support, stability, and cushioning, guiding the foot through the entire gait cycle.
These offer a better fit, better control, and better grip than past editions. They are recommended by Runner’s World and Health Magazine, and are some of the best-selling running shoes on Amazon.
Saucony Women's Cohesion 8 Running Shoe
The lightweight Saucony Women's Cohesion 8 Running Shoes are ideal for nearly all runners, even underpronators and runners who have wide feet and high arches. They are made with breathable mesh to keep your feet cool and dry. They offer unmatched comfort and support, thanks to adequate cushioning and a plush tongue and collar.
The Flex Grooves are added to the forefoot to increase flexibility. The Heel GRID System is embedded into the midsole foam to enhance cushioning in the heel, while the external heel counter aids in stabilizing the heel. The IMEVA midsole can also absorb shock and provide adequate traction.
These offer lasting durability, so they should last you for years and provide a great value over time. They are some of the best-selling running shoes on Amazon and are backed by more than 800 five-star reviews on Amazon. Many reviewers found that once they tried these, they could never go back to another running shoe again.
Nike Women's Flex 2015 Rn Running Shoe
If you are looking for the ideal all-purpose running shoes, consider the sleek, lightweight Nike Women's Flex 2015 Rn Running Shoe. They feature a lace-up closure, fabric mesh lining, and breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool and dry. The soft phylon midsole core offers unrivaled cushioning, flexibility, and support, so they can be worn on long runs or to your next visit to the gym.
They also have a synthetic overlay for additional support, a padded collar and tongue for added comfort, and an inner mesh sleeve that provides a sock-like fit. The removable FITSOLE insole also provides additional underfoot cushioning. The flex grooves in the outsole also add additional flexibility, allowing the shoe to bend properly with the natural motion of the foot.
These have outstanding online reviews and should last for years, providing a great value. They also have a minimal feel, which is ideal for those who don’t like flashy running shoes.
And those are our recommendations for the best women’s running shoes. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!
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