The 15 Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Maximum Comfort and Speed
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Table Of Contents
How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
The Benefits of Cushioned Running Shoes
What to Look For in the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
Who Should Wear Cushioned Running Shoes
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
How Often Should I Buy Cushioned Running Shoes?
Best Overall Cushioned Running Shoe
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Heavy Runners
Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes
Best Neutral Cushioned Running Shoe
Asics Novablast 3 Running Shoes
Best Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe
Craft Pro Endurance Running Shoes
Also Consider for Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe
Hoka Rincon 3 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Ultramarathons
Salomon Ultraglide 2 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Long Runs
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Trail Running
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Running Shoes
Also Consider for Cushioned Running Shoe for Trail Running
Altra Olympus 5 Running Shoes
Buy men’s at zappos $150
Best Cushioned Running for Plantar Fasciitis
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Wide Feet
On Cloudmonster Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Marathon Racing
Nike Alphafly 2 Running Shoes
Best Adidas Cushioned Running Shoes
Adidas UltraBoost Light Running Shoes
Best Stability Cushioned Running Shoe
Saucony Guide 16 Running Shoes
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Recovery Runs
Nike Invincible 3 Run Flyknit Running Shoes
Some days you just need a hug, and the same sometimes goes for your feet. The level of cushioning you are looking for from run to run can vary greatly. “Cushioned” might mean something very different for you the day after a marathon versus the day after a rest day. It’s important to understand what the best cushioned running shoe for you is and when different levels of cushioning will be beneficial to your running.
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If you polled a group of runners and asked them to describe what a “cushioned” running shoe looks and feels like, they would probably describe something with a thick midsole that feels soft underfoot. But is that the whole truth? The reality is that the best cushioned running shoe can look and feel very different depending on the runner.
“Heavier runners compress the foam more than their lighter counterparts do, so what one runner finds cushioned, another may not,” advises running coach Cory Smith. And while increased cushioning generally provides a soft feeling that lessens the impact of ground strike, “it’s only one element in the underfoot formula that brings a running experience to life,” says Bekah Broe, director of product performance footwear at Hoka.
We consulted our experts to help demystify what makes the best cushioned running shoes in 2023 for both men and women. Keep reading to see our top picks for running shoes with cushioning, along with expert tips for what to look for in a cushioned running shoe for every foot type and condition.
How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. When it comes to selecting the best shoes in any category, we take the job very seriously, constantly testing models throughout the year. And that was no exception when we sought out the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. We tapped Cory Smith, an expert running coach, tested most of the shoes ourselves, interviewed industry experts, and scoured online reviews to compile real customer feedback. The result is a researched list of the best cushioned running shoes for 2023 for all foot types and conditions.
Best Overall Cushioned Running Shoe
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-16 (Men’s) | 5-12
Colorways: 19 (Men’s) | 10 (Women’s)
Weight: 8.9 oz (Men’s) | 7.2 oz (Women’s)
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Ultra luxurious, pillow-like cushioning without compromising a secure, stable ride.
It’s impossible to talk about cushioned running shoes without mentioning Hoka. After all, Hoka running shoes started the maximum cushioning shoe trend. One of Hoka’s best maximum cushioned everyday neutral trainers is the Clifton 9.
Everything about the model is the epitome of luxury, from the pillow-like cushioning under your feet to the heavily padded tongue and heel collar. The Clifton 9 is Smith’s go-to shoe for recovery runs or long distances when his legs just can’t handle the harsh impact of concrete. Sometimes, tall, softer midsoles can feel mushy and wobbly, but while this model is not classified as a stability running shoe, its wide base allows for a secure, stable ride. A new, lighter midsole compound also knocked nearly 15 percent off the weight of this model compared to previous iterations, giving the Clifton 9 a faster feeling.
You’d be hard pressed to find a more capable maximum cushioned running shoe. If comfort is what you’re after, the Hoka Clifton 9 is the shoe for you. As one reviewer noted, “These shoes are the most comfortable, supportive shoes I have ever worn.”
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Heavy Runners
Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-16 (Men’s)| 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 16 (Men’s) | 17 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.8 oz (Men’s) | 8.9 oz (Women’s)
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 4 millimeters
Pros: Ultra-plush cushioning with over 1.5 inches of padding dampening every footstrike.
Cons: All that padding makes these for pretty heavy shoes that might slow you down a bit.
Buy women’s at dicks sporting goods $165
If you’re the type of runner who agrees there’s no such thing as too much cushioning, the Bondi 8 is for you. As one of the most cushioned running shoes you can buy across all brands, Hoka’s flagship maximum cushioned trainer boasts a whopping stack height of 40 millimeters in the heel and 36 millimeters in the forefoot (to put that into perspective, that’s over 1.5 inches of plush cushioning damping each footstrike). Underfoot, you’ll find that soft, full-length compression-molded EVA midsole with the classic Hoka rocker geometry pushes your foot forward during toe-offs.
Fans of the Bondi 7 will be happy to hear not much has changed in terms of ride. Improvements to the upper, such as enhanced padded at the heel collar and redesigned TPU overlays, give the Bondi 8 a more comfortable fit and secure midfoot wrap. Despite being classified as a neutral running shoe, the Bondi 8 is inherently stable, making it an alternative option for runners who pronate and may not like the stiff nature of stability running shoes. If you enjoy a thick-soled and ultra-soft running shoe, the Hoka Bondi 8 is your kind of running shoe.
Best Neutral Cushioned Running Shoe
Asics Novablast 3 Running Shoes
Size Range: 6-15 (Men’s) | 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 14 (Men’s) | 13 (Women’s)
Weight: 8.9 oz (Men’s) | 7.8 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Flytefoam Blast PLUS Midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: The Flytefoam Blast midsole features an over-exaggerated heel that helps neutralize your foot position while also offering a soft, smooth ride.
Cons: Quite a different ride from our normal firm expectations for Asics, but that definitely isn’t a bad thing. Just be prepared to be surprised if you’re an Asics devotee.
Smith very clearly remembers when he first saw the Asics Novablast at a running conference in Austin, Texas. His eyes were immediately drawn to its eye-catching midsole with sharp geometric lines. Upon putting the shoes on, he found the step-in to be amazing yet very uncharacteristic of Asics, as the brand’s styles always offered a firmer underfoot feeling. Everything from this shoe’s plush midsole to its nicely padded upper screams comfort. And while running in these, the experience is no different. The Flytefoam Blast midsole offers up a soft, smooth ride perfect for everyday runs, with one reviewer mentioning the style is ideal for athletes who “prefer a bouncy, cushioned feel but also like to pick up the pace a little.” With an over-exaggerated midsole under the heel and eight millimeter drop, the Novablast 3 builds on the excellence of previous models and is a great choice for rearfoot strikers seeking a neutral shoe. If you haven’t worn an Asics running shoe in a while, this is the one we suggest you try.
Best Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe
Craft Pro Endurance Running Shoes
Size Range: 8-13 (Men’s) | 6-10 (Women’s)
Colorways: 6 (Men’s) | 5 (Women’s)
Weight: 8.1 oz (Men’s) | 7.4 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Px Foam Midsole
Drop: 9 millimeters
Pros: The Px foam midsole is a technology normally reserved for ultralight, carbon fiber super shoes. Using it in a relatively affordable runner is a real treat.
Cons: You’re paying a premium price for a premium product, but nothing that out of line from other higher-end running shoes.
Buy women’s at craftsports $140
This Swedish-born sports brand is taking the U.S. running market by storm. Almost all boutique brand running shoes we’ve tested have fallen short of those from big labels, but we’ve been increasingly impressed by the quality of Craft’s running shoes — and the Pro Endurance is its best model yet, in our opinion. The shoe is highly cushioned, creating an outstanding ride quality that’s equal parts smooth and bouncy. The lively feeling is thanks to a premium midsole foam called Px, which is more commonly found in today’s carbon fiber super shoes. With 36 millimeters of Px under the heel, Craft doesn’t skimp on the soft stuff. And although you might think all that cushioning adds weight, the Pro Endurance comes in at just over eight ounces for men and seven ounces for women — making it one of the lightest max cushioned shoes you can buy.
Also Consider for Lightweight Cushioned Running Shoe
Hoka Rincon 3 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-16 (Men’s) | 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 16 (Men’s) | 14 (Women’s)
Weight: 7.7 oz (Men’s) | 7.2 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Compression molded foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Excellent cushioning and yet still lightweight enough to take out on a tempo run.
Cons: The midsole doesn’t hold up as long as other models and may require you to replace your shoes more frequently.
For fans of minimalist running shoes who don’t want to drag their foot down with the weight of materials, the Rincon 3 is a great all around shoe. It can truly meet you where you are on any given day, thanks to its extremely lightweight construction. It’s cushioned enough to be a good choice for slow recovery runs but lightweight enough to keep up with the pace of a tempo runs as well. In addition to the excellent cushioning, the midsole also features an early-stage meta-rocker that helps propel your foot forward and moves you through your stride just a bit quicker. It’s a quick, snappy ride that some reviewers also found was especially helpful in countering plantar fasciitis. The one pitfall of this model is that many reviewers–even fairly petite ones–report that the materials of the midsole breakdown faster than other models. But that doesn’t stop any of them from purchasing pair after pair — quite the endorsement.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Ultramarathons
Salomon Ultraglide 2 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-14 (Men’s) | 5-11 (Women’s)
Colorways: 4 (Men’s) | 4 (Women’s)
Weight: 9.17 oz (Men’s) | 8.46 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Energy Foam midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
Pros: Super smooth, cushioned ride that performs well across basically any terrain and any distance.
Cons: There’s no real innovations from the original model, but we love the second generation equally.
Salomon has been known for making the best trail running shoes, but has never released a highly cushioned trail running shoe until The Salomon Ultra Glide. Now updated, the Salomon Ultra Glide 2 is a maximum cushioned trail running shoe ideal for ultra running or comfortable everyday trail runs. The best part of the Ultra Glide 2 is its Energy Foam midsole, featuring a newer lightweight, responsive foam created by combining a traditional EVA with Olefin. The result is a soft, smooth ride.
If you’re used to Salomon running shoes, you’ll find the Ultra Glide 2 to have a more relaxed fit through the mid and forefoot. This wider design gives your feet more room, accommodating foot swell during extra-long or hot days on the trails. Like most maximum cushioned shoes, it doesn’t perform the best through tacky technical terrain. But when it comes to smooth single track, fire roads or even concrete roads, it offers the same smooth sailing we loved in the original Ultra Glide. As one California-based reviewer notes, “The cushion is amazing. It feels like I can run all day. Overall a great shoe, perfect for buffed-out trails/fire roads here on the Central Coast of California.”
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Long Runs
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-16 (Men’s) | 5-13 (Women’s)
Colorways: 12 (Men’s) | 13 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.3 oz (Men’s) | 8.3 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Fresh Foam midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: Excellent cushioning, combined with a roomy fit make this a favorite for long distances.
Cons: The sizing tends to run a bit large and you may want to order down a size.
New Balance just nailed the 1080 v12. It’s hands down the best-cushioned trainer in the New Balance suite of running shoes, and by far one of our favorites. The full-length Fresh Foam X midsole feels soft without being too mushy, hitting a happy medium of responsive cushioning. While Smith wouldn’t call the 1080v12 a lightweight shoe, it feels fairly nimble for being so thick-soled. It’s not a racing shoe, but it has the ability to respond if your competitive side takes over. The engineered knit upper is one the best Smith has ever tested. It reminds him somewhat of Nike’s Flyknit or adidas’ Primeknit upper. It’s soft, stretchy and super comfortable and accommodating to a wide array of foot shapes.
This would be a great option for runners who struggle to find wide enough shoes due to the stretchy nature of the upper. One thing to point out is Smith found the 1080v12 to run on the larger side, which is odd because typically he finds New Balance shoes to run small. Was it so drastically large he needed a smaller size? No. But if you’re in between sizes, he suggests opting for the smaller size.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Trail Running
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-15 (Men’s) | 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 11 (Men’s) | 12 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.3 oz (Men’s) | 8.5 oz (Women’s)
Materials: EVA foam midsole
Drop: 4 millimeters
Pros: Hands down the most comfortable trail shoe out there, that conveniently also performs really well on roads.
Cons: None. This is a truly great shoe.
There’s a reason the Speedgoat is Hoka’s number one selling trail shoe–it’s just so darn comfortable. If we were stuck on an island filled with the world’s best running trails, the Speedgoat would most certainly be the one shoe we would want to bring. Not only is it a great trail shoe, but it doubles as a super cushioned road shoe as well — making it one of the best hybrid shoes around. Not much has changed from previous iterations that affects how this shoe runs, so if you’re a fan of the Speedgoat 4, expect a slightly lighter but similar underfoot feel. Small details were added to the outsole lugs to create more surface area to grip dirt and rocks better. Further upgrades include a flexible elastic strategically placed at the start of the laces above the widest part of your foot to allow the upper to expand — a welcoming addition for those ultra-long runs when your feet start to swell or for winter weather.
Also Consider for Cushioned Running Shoe for Trail Running
Altra Olympus 5 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-15 (Men’s) | 5-13 (Women’s)
Colorways: 6 (Men’s) | 7 (Women’s)
Weight: 12.3 oz (Men’s) | 10.4 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Balanced Cushioning midsole
Drop: 0 millimeters
Buy men’s at zappos $150
For long, slow trail runs there is no better shoe out there than the Altra Olympus 5. It’s heavier than many and is not nimble by any stretch of the imagination, but if you’re looking for cushion over rocky and varied terrain, this is an excellent option. These shoes offer excellent cushioning thanks to the thick 33 millimeter Balanced Cushioning midsole but where they really excel is in underfoot traction. They feature an excellent Vibram outsole and super deep canted lugs that are purposefully placed underneath the metatarsals to provide even more traction than usual. If you’re willing to spend a bit extra to keep your foot comfortable over any terrain, the Altra Olympus 5 is the shoe for you.
Best Cushioned Running for Plantar Fasciitis
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-15 (Men’s) | 5-13 (Women’s)
Colorways: 14 (Men’s) | 35 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.2 oz (Men’s) | 9.0 oz (Women’s)
Materials: DNA Loft midsole
Drop: 12 millimeters
Pros: With an official distinction from the American Podiatric Medical Association, there’s no doubt that this is an excellent shoe for fighting plantar fasciitis.
Cons: Some runners report that the laces come undone easily.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS has been beloved by runners for its excellent support for over 20 years. And there is a reason for that staying power. The latest models feature the brand’s GuideRail technology and work to keep extra movement in check by keeping you closer to your natural stride even when you get tired. They provide next level support (and relief) for your hips, knees and, especially, feet — as endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association. The midsole is built up a bit more than other models which is great for your alignment and countering plantar fasciitis. Really it’s one of the best cushioned running shoes for for flat feet, wide feet, and even bad knees as well. But you might want to consider buying new laces though–that’s the one common complaint among reviewers.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Wide Feet
On Cloudmonster Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-14 (Men’s) | 5-11 (Women’s)
Colorways: 8 (Men’s) | 8 (Women’s)
Weight: 9.7 oz (Men’s) | 8.1 oz (Women’s)
Materials: CloudTec midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
Pros: Lightweight and ultra-cushioned thanks to On’s innovative CloudTec, or, as we like to call them, holes in the soles.
Cons: They’re on the high end of the price spectrum.
On has absolutely exploded onto the running scene. Its unique-looking running shoes feature holes in the sole, (or as On calls them, “CloudTec”) that create a one-of-a-kind feeling. We’ve found most On running shoes have a firmer underfoot ride, but the Cloudmonster is an exception. Just as its name suggests, this shoe is packed with plush cushioning. These are by far Smith’s favorite On running shoes. They offer a fun, bouncy feel with every stride, and considering how lightweight they are, they make a great long-run, uptempo or even race day shoe when comfort is a top priority. As one reviewer notes, “I just ran my first half marathon with these monsters! They felt amazing and my time was much better than expected. I love all the cushy room in the toe box. Well done, On!”
Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Marathon Racing
Nike Alphafly 2 Running Shoes
Size Range: 6-15
Colorways: Total Orange/Bright Crimson/Ghost Green/Black (Men’s & Women’s)
Weight: 8.0 oz (Men’s) | 8.0 oz (Women’s)
Materials: ZoomX + Zoom Air midsole
Drop: 4 millimeters
Pros: A combination of ZoomX cushioning, a full-length carbon fiber plate and two AirZoom cushioning units in the forefoot make this one heck of a high performance distance shoe.
Cons: They are one of the most expensive shoes out there and they only come in one color.
If ever there was a GOAT marathon racing shoe, a shoe that has perhaps set more marathon records and personal bests than any other shoe in history, the Nike Alphafly 2 is it. Speed and cushioning are typically two opposing forces, and highly cushioned shoes tend to weigh more and feel too bulky, making them better meant for easy running. The Alphafly 2 mystically breaks that mold. What’s the secret sauce to one of Nike’s best running shoes? The combination of Nike’s highest rebounding foam, ZoomX, a rigid full-length carbon fiber plate and two Air Zoom Units in the forefoot — making it the best cushioned running shoes with forefront cushioning. Despite its odd and clunky appearance, it’s a remarkably smooth shoe for efficient runners. It’s certainly more geared toward the competitive runner versus the recreational one due to its tall 40 millimeter/36 millimeter stack height (registering just below the World Athletics limit) that feels somewhat unstable at slower paces. Since its inception in 2018, Smith has been recommending it to all of his clients looking to set a personal best.
Best Adidas Cushioned Running Shoes
Adidas UltraBoost Light Running Shoes
Size Range: 5-14 (Men’s) | 5.5-10 (Women’s)
Colors: 11 (Men’s) | 10 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.3 oz (Men’s) | 9.2 oz (Women’s)
Materials: Boost midsole
Drop: 10 millimeters
Pros: Huge improvements to reduce the weight of these shoes mean you can have excellent cushioning and comfort without sacrificing speed.
Cons: They are so good looking you’ll have trouble only wearing them on your runs.
If comfortable luxury is what you’re after, look no further than the adidas Ultraboost Light, one of the best Adidas running shoes to buy now. (It’s no wonder, with excellent siblings like the Ultraboost 22 available as well.) Featuring Adidas’ plush yet high energy-return Boost midsole and a sock-like knit upper, the adidas Ultraboost Light had the best step-in comfort of all the shoes we tested. With stack heights of 33 millimeters in the heel and 23 millimeters in the forefoot, the style makes it feel as if you’re running on a bed of pillows.
All that comfort and cushioning does come at the expense of weight, though. The first generations of this shoe clocked in at nearly 12 ounces for men and 10 ounces for women. Thankfully, Adidas has managed to shave off nearly 2 oz of weight in the newer models, which make these much more appropriate for a range of tempos. We still love them for recovery runs though. When your legs are dead-flat, there’s nothing better than a thick slab of Boost cushioning underfoot to soften the impact. Sneakerheads love the Ultraboost for its clean, classic aesthetic, so you’ll look great around town.
Best Stability Cushioned Running Shoe
Saucony Guide 16 Running Shoes
Size Range: 7-16 (Men’s) | 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 7 (Men’s) | 8 (Women’s)
Weight: 8.8 oz (Men’s) | 7.8 oz (Women’s)
Materials: PWRRUN midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: Huge recent improvements to the cushioning make this classic stability shoe and excellent choice all around now.
Cons: They are definitely not winterized, even on light rain days reviewers report ending their runs with very wet feet.
Up until 2022, the Saucony Guide was well regarded for being an excellent stability shoe, but fell a little flat if you were looking for extra cushioning. Not so anymore. With the removal of the Hurricane from their line, Saucony has substantially upped the cushioning on the Guide 16, making it one of their most cushioned models. Which is great for runners who are looking for stability. The Hollow Tech media support system provides a lighter, less intrusive version of a traditional post that helps guide your foot forward–hence this models name. Couple that with the excellent PWRRUN cushioned midsole and you have a stability shoe that should be high on your list for consideration.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe for Recovery Runs
Nike Invincible 3 Run Flyknit Running Shoes
Size Range: 6-15 (Men’s) | 5-12 (Women’s)
Colorways: 4 (Men’s) | 3 (Women’s)
Weight: 10.9 oz (Men’s) | 9.1 oz (Women’s)
Materials: ZoomX midsole
Drop: 9 millimeters
Pros: ZoomX foam, a wide forefoot, and a Flyknit upper make this an exceptionally comfortable shoe for when your feet truly need a break.
Cons: It’s pretty heavy, but that’s why we prefer it for our slow recovery runs.
Nike’s ZoomX foam is distinguished. It’s extremely soft, highly responsive and allows for an oh-so smooth ride. So, it’s no surprise that when Nike first made a maximum cushioned everyday trainer with nothing but ZoomX, it would become an instant classic. Featuring a hefty dose of ZoomX under the heel (36 millimeters), the Invincible 3 is perfect for everything from uptempo long runs to recovery runs.
It has an exaggerated, wide forefoot that allows for a more stable ride and makes it one of the best cushioned running shoes with a wide toe box. You would think a shoe this wide and thick-soled would be a drag, but it’s not at all.
Thanks to the bouncy foam and slight rockered forefoot, heel-to-toe transitions are made smooth and snappy. While all the softness underfoot lessens the impact, the Flyknit upper wraps your foot in complete comfort. As one reviewer notes, “the ZoomX foam is the star here. Very, very cushy and yet reasonably responsive for all the cushioning. This shoe is about as easy on my legs as any shoe I’ve ever worn.”
The Benefits of Cushioned Running Shoes
The most immediate benefit of a cushioned running shoe is that it lessens the impact of repeated ground strike on your foot. Think about it like a shock absorber on a mountain bike. The more cushioning you have between your foot and the ground, the less you are going to feel the impact. But how those benefits translate from runner to runner can vary widely. “While we all seek the immediate comfort a cushioned shoe can provide, the benefit of the shoe ultimately depends on your individual biomechanics and how they work with the materials and geometries used in the design,” says Broe.
What to Look For in the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
Level of cushioning: The amount of foam in between your foot and the ground, called stack height, is one of the most obvious indicators of cushioning according to Smith. The higher the stack of the shoe, the more cushioning it contains and the softer the ride is likely to feel.
Firmness: The other major factor in determining cushioning according to Smith, is the durometer, or the firmness of the foam under your foot. You can use a device to get a reading on the materials. The higher the reading, the firmer, and therefore less cushioned, the material is.
Materials: With stack height and durometer in mind, you’ll want to look for shoes that utilize materials and technologies that are appropriate for your own personal preferences. Not all foams are created equal so pay attention to how the individual foam feels under your foot. A shoe with a high stack could also feature materials that score high on a durometer and might not be as cushioned as you want.
Weight: More cushioning generally means more materials and generally means more weight. Be ready to carry a slightly heavier load on your runs. If that’s a deterrent for you, pay close attention to brands that offer lightweight cushioning technologies.
Who Should Wear Cushioned Running Shoes
This boils down to personal preference and the intent behind your runs. Cushioned running shoes generally offer, “a softer, compliant ride that feels like a luxurious, even cruise-like experience,” Broe explains. You, like Smith, might appreciate a cushioned running shoe on a recovery day. Or you might look for more cushioning to help combat the terrain of your trail runs or provide the added comfort you need to go the extra miles during a marathon. And they can be particularly helpful if you suffer from any number of foot conditions, especially plantar fasciitis.
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
It’s always important to listen to your feet, and that’s especially true when you know you are predisposed to a certain foot type or condition. You will want to look for shoes that include the same special features you normally seek out. For flat feet, that means a wide-laced model with a design that is relatively straight underfoot, while for wide feet that means seeking out a roomy toe box. If you regularly contend with plantar fasciitis, extra cushioning is already the way to go but you’ll want to make sure your shoe is also providing adequate arch support and seek out wider more stability shoes, which will also help reduce the effects of ankle pain or weakness. If you’re on your feet all day, chances are you might suffer from more knee pain or back pain than others. Extra cushioning coupled with a snug, supportive fit are a great first step to alleviating both problems. If you’re seeking diabetic-friendly shoes, you’ll want to look for a much roomier shoe to help alleviate friction on your foot. Finally if you suffer from a physical malady like bunions or heel spurs, ensuring you have a snug, supportive fit is of primary importance again. No two feet are the same, so be sure to pay attention to what yours are telling you when looking for your personal best cushioned running shoe.
How Often Should I Buy Cushioned Running Shoes?
As with any running shoe, it’s better to err on the side of caution and replace them prematurely. And since cushioned shoes tend to have very soft midsoles, you will probably need to replace them more often according to Smith. “As the foam compresses repeatedly with each footstrike, it starts to lose its rebounding properties and can have the potential to wear unevenly,” he warns. And when that happens, your risk of injury goes way up. Keep an eye out for some of the telltale signs of a compressed or uneven midsole, like creases and lines along the sidewalls and even holes in your uppers. When in doubt you should replace your shoes, but Smith generally advises they should last through about 200 miles or six months of wear.
Meet the Experts
Cory Smith has been a runner and running coach for over 25 years. He holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 and 2 Endurance Certification, three former Maryland State records, and is a two-time NCAA Division National championships qualifier. Smith wrote the initial version of this cushioned running shoe story for Footwear News in 2022.
Bekah Broe is the director of product for performance footwear at Hoka.
Meet the Author
Peter Tittiger is a freelance journalist, content consultant, and avid runner. A firm believer in “No Days Off,” he regularly logs at least five runs a week and cross-trains in the pool or on a bike. He has trained for and run in nearly a hundred races, including the New York City Marathon, multiple completions of the full, 5-borough, NYRR half-marathon circuit, and annual completion of the Falmouth Road Race. Tittiger updated this best cushioned running shoes story for 2023 with new product releases, more tips for shoppers, and some testing notes for running shoes with all types of cushioning.
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