10 Best Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is designed for runners who want a highly cushioned, neutral running shoe that feels soft yet responsive. Its innovative DNA Tuned midsole uses different cell sizes to create plush heel cushioning combined with energetic toe-offs, making it great for smooth, comfortable runs on roads or in the gym. The shoe offers a stable ride thanks to a broad platform and a tuned heel, which helps with smooth transitions from heel to toe.

The fit is accommodating and flexible due to the double jacquard knit upper, which also provides good breathability to keep your feet cool. The outsole is made of durable rubber, suitable for road surfaces, but it is not designed for trail running where aggressive grip is needed. The shoe is certified as diabetic-friendly and accepted by the APMA, indicating strong attention to foot health and comfort.

This shoe suits runners prioritizing plush comfort, stable support, and breathable fit. Those who require strong arch support or trail-specific grip should consider alternative options.

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 running shoes are designed to deliver excellent cushioning, thanks to their Fresh Foam X midsole that offers a soft, comfortable ride with a slight eco-friendly edge through bio-based content. This makes them a great choice for runners who prioritize comfort on longer runs. The engineered mesh upper ensures good breathability, helping keep your feet cooler during activity, while the no-sew overlays and gusseted tongue work together to provide a secure fit and keep debris out, adding to overall comfort.

The adjustable lace closure allows for a personalized fit, which is helpful for varying foot widths, and the shoe is generally built with a standard medium width. These shoes provide moderate arch support suitable for neutral runners. The outsole uses rubber designed for durability and grip on road surfaces, making these shoes reliable for everyday training but less ideal on rugged trails. Weighing around 2.1 pounds, they are relatively lightweight, supporting a natural running stride without feeling heavy.

These shoes are well suited for runners seeking plush cushioning and breathability in a dependable daily trainer. Those with wider feet or specific arch needs should try them on to ensure the best comfort.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is a great option for runners seeking a comfortable and smooth ride. It features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which offers soft and lightweight comfort, making it suitable for various activities like road running, gym workouts, and walking. The shoe's Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth transitions from landing to toe-off, enhancing the running experience with distraction-free cushioning.

The 3D Fit Print technology provides a more seamless and secure fit, complemented by the engineered air mesh upper that combines breathability with structure to keep your feet comfortable during runs. Moreover, the Ghost 16 has been recognized for its quality and comfort, earning certifications like the PDAC A5500 for diabetic shoes and the APMA Seal of Acceptance, indicating its suitability for a wide range of users, including those with specific medical needs. Additionally, it is a certified carbon neutral product, which is a bonus for environmentally conscious runners.

On the downside, some users might find the shoe's weight of 1.5 pounds slightly heavier compared to other running shoes, which could be a factor for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight footwear. While the Roadtack rubber outsole is designed to be durable and provide good traction, its performance on various surfaces was not specified, so it may be more ideal for road running rather than off-road or trail running. The Brooks Ghost 16 could be an excellent choice for road runners looking for a balance of comfort, support, and sustainability, though those seeking a lighter shoe or more specialized traction may want to consider other options.