Picking the perfect pair of running shoes can feel very much like Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Try on one pair and they’re too squishy. The next pair is too firm. A toe box that’s too roomy, or a heel that doesn’t lock your foot in. It’s tricky and usually takes some time, and miles to really start to hone in on your favorite Brands and styles.
Ten marathons, numerous halfs, and two 50ks later, fitness instructor and running coach Shelby has narrowed down her favorite running shoes to these five. She tends to air on the side of stability, but also enjoys a neutral shoe. With a focus on racing longer distances, comfort is extremely important.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35
These shoes have been around forever! It is one of Nike’s most popular styles and a great shoe for an everyday training shoe. It is also the best price on this list. With a 10mm toe drop, these shoes still run with a pretty neutral feeling fit. “Blending new elements with the tried-and-true performance history of previous models, the Nike Pegasus 35 continues to provide a superior ride for beginners and seasoned runners alike, while the Pegasus Turbo features ZoomX foam cushioning for runners who want both speed and comfort.”
Men’s
Women’s
Asics Gel Kayano 25
It is like running on a cloud with these puppies on! The “FLYTEFOAM® technology employs organic super fibers that resist compression, providing enduring bounce on even the longest runs. The springy FLUIDRIDE® midsole cushions the foot and reinforces its natural line of movement, working together with the signature GEL® technology to minimize impact and protect your joints.” These are a great stability shoe with a 10mm heel drop for men, and a 13mm heel drop for women, geared to help prevent Achilles strain. The shoes have an extremely custom fit, hugging your foot like a cozy sock. Asics assures that, “These shoes will give you the energy and stability you need to run further every time.”
Men’s
Women’s
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19
This is another legend in the world of running shoes and is a go-to shoe for many runners! The new design has has GuideRails support, giving the runner a soft and balanced ride. Brooks focuses on the runner’s most injury-prone part of the body, the knees, in the construction of this shoe. This is a very supportive and cushioned shoe with a 12mm heel drop. It was Coach Shelby’s first marathon shoe!
Men’s
Women’s
Saucony Liberty ISO
These shoes won Runner’s World Best Debut in 2018, and with the ISO 2 coming out soon, fans are excited to see what Saucony brings to the table next! The Medial TPU guidance frame is perfect for runners who suffer from mild to severe pronation. You’ll feel like you are on track with these shoes on! Additionally, the “EVERUN Topsole construction for enhanced energy return and continuous cushioning throughout the run” is incredibly comfortable. With a 4mm heel drop, these are a wonderful lightweight and fairly minimal stability shoe!
Men’s
Women’s
HOKA Bondi 6
The HOKA Bondi 6 are the most cushioned shoe in the HOKA ONE ONE road-shoe line. They are smooth, balanced, and have Meta-Rocker technology, keeping you jamming through those long runs! The Bondi 6 are neutral with a 10.3mm heel drop for men, and 8.1mm heel drop for women. Giving them more of Achilles support than the previous Bondi 5. This is a favorite shoe for slow long distance recovery runs!
Men’s
Women’s
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