Best Running Shoes in 2026: 12 Picks Compared on Specs
The Saucony Unisex Endorphin Elite 2 stands out as the best overall running shoe for its unisex fit and racing-focused design. This list of 12 running shoes was chosen from a pool of 254 based on stated specifications like width, waterproofing, slip-on design, and leather materials. Prices are live and read from the store listing, and no unit was tested by us.
12 picks from 203 sneakers that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For daily road running: Pick a neutral shoe with a comfortable fit, like the Under Armour Charged Assert 9DISC or New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4. See pick 9
- For runners with wide feet: Look for a shoe listed as wide, such as the Skechers Energy Afterburn (men's) or Saucony Echelon 11 (women's). See pick 3
- For wet-weather runs: Choose a waterproof model like the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX or ALTRA Experience Flow 3 GTX to keep your feet dry. See pick 6
- For speed and racing: The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a unisex shoe designed for fast efforts and race day. See pick 1
Our 12 picks
1 Best overall
Saucony Unisex Endorphin Elite 2 Running Shoe
- For
- Unisex
- Use
- Running
$129.95 (as of 11/04/2026 02:35 PST - Details)
This is the only unisex shoe in our list, making it a versatile option for any runner. The name suggests a focus on speed and elite performance, which suits racers and tempo runners.
Pros
- Unisex sizing fits both men and women
- Racing-oriented design from the name
- No gender-specific design limits its audience
Cons
- May not have wide or waterproof options
- High-performance focus might be overkill for casual runners
Good fit if
- Runners looking for a single shoe for training and racing
- Those who prefer a more universal fit
Skip if
- You need a wide fit or waterproofing
- You prefer a plush, everyday trainer
Verdict: A top pick for runners who want one shoe that works across genders and distances.
2 Best support for women
The product name includes 'Supportive,' and Brooks is a well-known running brand. It's designed for women who need additional structure during their runs.
Pros
- Explicitly described as supportive
- Women's-specific fit
- Suitable for running and walking
Cons
- Only women's sizes listed
- No wide or slip-on options stated
Good fit if
- Women needing motion control or arch support
- Runners who want a shoe that can double for walking
Skip if
- Men looking for a comparable shoe
- Those wanting a lightweight, minimal shoe
Verdict: A solid choice for women who prioritize support and comfort.
3 Best wide fit for men
Skechers mens Energy Afterburn road running shoes
- For
- Men
- Use
- Running
- Wide fit
- Yes
$52.99 (as of 11/04/2026 03:37 PST - Details) Typical price: $62.98, 16% off
Listed explicitly as a wide shoe, this Skechers model addresses the need for extra room without compromising on running function.
Pros
- Stated as wide fit
- Road running use case in the name
- Available in an 11 Wide US size
Cons
- Only one colorway in the pool
- No waterproof or slip-on versions mentioned
Good fit if
- Men with wide feet who struggle to find comfortable running shoes
- Runners looking for a budget-friendly wide option
Skip if
- You have narrow or standard width feet
- You need a waterproof trail shoe
Verdict: A reliable wide-fit running shoe for men.
4 Best wide fit for women
Saucony Women's Echelon 11 Road Running Shoe
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
- Wide fit
- Yes
$154.95 (as of 11/04/2026 02:35 PST - Details)
This Saucony shoe is sold in a wide width (6 Wide) and is designed specifically for women, making it a strong candidate for those needing extra toe room.
Pros
- Explicitly wide fit for women
- Women's-specific design
- From a running-focused brand
Cons
- Only one width option listed
- No slip-on or waterproof features
Good fit if
- Female runners with wide feet
- Those who want a roomier fit without gaining weight
Skip if
- You have standard width feet
- You prefer a lightweight racing shoe
Verdict: A comfortable wide-fit running shoe for women.
5 Best slip-on
Skechers Women's Aero Burst Hands Free Slip-Ins Running Shoe
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
- Slip-on
- Yes
$131.20 (as of 11/04/2026 03:38 PST - Details)
The name includes 'Hands Free Slip-Ins,' and the spec confirms a slip-on design, making it the easiest shoe to put on in this list.
Pros
- Slip-on construction, no laces needed
- Women's-specific running shoe
- Black/Green colorway
Cons
- May not provide a secure lockdown for intense runs
- No wide or waterproof options stated
Good fit if
- Runners who want a quick, hassle-free entry
- Those with limited dexterity or time
Skip if
- You need lace-up stability for racing
- You run on slippery trails and need waterproofing
Verdict: The best choice for runners who value convenience.
6 Best waterproof trail
The name includes 'Trail' and the spec confirms 'waterproof,' so it's built for wet and uneven terrain.
Pros
- Waterproof construction (GTX)
- Trail-oriented design from the name
- Nike React foam (from the product name)
Cons
- Only women's sizes in the pool
- Trail-specific tread may be too aggressive for road only
Good fit if
- Women who run on trails in wet conditions
- Adventure runners needing weather protection
Skip if
- You run only on pavement and prefer a smooth sole
- You need a shoe with a wide fit
Verdict: A dependable waterproof trail runner for women.
7 Best waterproof road
ALTRA Women's Experience Flow 3 GTX Road Running Shoe
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
- Waterproof
- Yes
$164.95 (as of 11/04/2026 11:37 PST - Details)
This ALTRA shoe is listed as waterproof, and the name suggests a road running focus. It offers protection without being trail-specific.
Pros
- Waterproof (GTX)
- Road running use case in the name
- Women's-specific fit
Cons
- No wide or slip-on versions mentioned
- Waterproofing may reduce breathability
Good fit if
- Women who run on wet roads or light rain
- Runners who want a waterproof everyday trainer
Skip if
- You run on technical trails
- You need maximum ventilation for hot weather
Verdict: A solid waterproof road running shoe for women.
8 Best leather running shoe
Cole Haan Women's Grandpro LP Runner Energyweave Sneaker
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
- Leather
- Yes
$99.95 (as of 11/03/2026 22:25 PST - Details)
This Cole Haan model is explicitly marked as leather, making it a unique choice for runners who prefer a more durable, classic material.
Pros
- Leather upper material
- Women's-specific fit
- Stylish design that can transition to casual wear
Cons
- Leather may be heavier and less breathable
- No waterproof or wide options stated
Good fit if
- Runners who want a shoe for both running and everyday style
- Those who prefer leather over synthetic mesh
Skip if
- You need a lightweight, high-performance racer
- You run in hot climates and need breathability
Verdict: A stylish and durable leather running shoe for women.
9 Best men's daily trainer
Under Armour Mens Charged Assert 9DISC Running Shoe
- For
- Men
- Use
- Running
$49.99 (as of 11/04/2026 06:39 PST - Details) Typical price: $54.95, 9% off
The name includes 'Charged' and the brand is known for athletic gear. This shoe is a straightforward road running model for regular training.
Pros
- Men's-specific fit
- Road running use case
- From a well-known sports brand
Cons
- No wide or waterproof options
- May lack advanced features like carbon plates
Good fit if
- Men who need a simple, reliable shoe for daily miles
- Runners building a base mileage routine
Skip if
- You need a racing flat or a waterproof trail shoe
- You want a minimalist, flexible feel
Verdict: A dependable everyday trainer for men.
10 Best women's everyday trainer
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
$56.49 (as of 11/04/2026 00:23 PST - Details)
The name mentions 'Fresh Foam,' indicating a cushioned midsole. This New Balance shoe is a comfortable choice for regular runs.
Pros
- Fresh Foam midsole from the name
- Women's-specific fit
- Suitable for running and walking
Cons
- No wide or waterproof options stated
- May not offer enough support for overpronators
Good fit if
- Women looking for a cushioned daily trainer
- Runners who want a simple, comfortable ride
Skip if
- You need stability or motion control
- You prefer a low-profile, minimal shoe
Verdict: A well-cushioned everyday running shoe for women.
11 Best men's road running shoe
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 11 Running Shoes
- For
- Men
- Use
- Running
$69.95 (as of 11/04/2026 12:36 PST - Details)
ASICS is a running-focused brand, and this model is a standard road running shoe in the pool. It's a versatile choice for most men's runs.
Pros
- ASICS brand known for running
- Men's-specific fit
- Standard road running design
Cons
- No wide or waterproof versions listed
- May not have modern foam technology mentioned
Good fit if
- Men seeking a reliable road shoe
- Those who want a simple, no-frills running experience
Skip if
- You need a trail-specific outsole
- You require a snug wide fit
Verdict: A solid road running shoe for men.
12 Best women's performance shoe
On Women's Cloudflow 5 Tangerine | Silver Running Shoe
- For
- Women
- Use
- Running
$1,090.27 (as of 11/04/2026 00:32 PST - Details)
The 'Cloudflow' name suggests speed and a performance-oriented design. It's a women's-specific shoe for faster runs.
Pros
- Performance-oriented name
- Women's-specific fit
- From a brand known for innovative running shoes
Cons
- No waterproof or wide options
- May be less cushioned than daily trainers
Good fit if
- Women training for races or speed workouts
- Runners who want a responsive feel
Skip if
- You need a shoe for easy recovery runs
- You prefer a plush, high-cushion ride
Verdict: A fast and responsive women's running shoe.
Specifications side by side
| # | Sneaker | For | Use | Cut | Slip-on | Wide fit | Leather |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saucony Unisex Endorphin Elite 2 Running Shoe | Unisex | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Skechers mens Energy Afterburn road running shoes | Men | Running | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 4 | Saucony Women's Echelon 11 Road Running Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 5 | Skechers Women's Aero Burst Hands Free Slip-Ins Running Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Nike W React Pegasus Trail 4 GTX LowWomen | not stated | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | ALTRA Women's Experience Flow 3 GTX Road Running Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Cole Haan Women's Grandpro LP Runner Energyweave Sneaker | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 9 | Under Armour Mens Charged Assert 9DISC Running Shoe | Men | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 11 Running Shoes | Men | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | On Women's Cloudflow 5 Tangerine | Silver Running Shoe | Women | Running | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How the picks were chosen
From a catalog of 254 running shoes, we removed duplicates and narrowed the list to 12 distinct models. We used the product title and listed specifications (gender, wide fit, slip-on, waterproof, leather) as the primary criteria. We prioritized established brands and new condition. We did not consider customer reviews or test these shoes. Each product's live price is shown on the page and may change over time.
Picking the right one for you
Consider your foot width
If you have wide feet, look for shoes explicitly marked as wide, like the Skechers Energy Afterburn or Saucony Echelon 11. Many brands offer width options, but our pool only includes a few. Standard width shoes may cause discomfort if you need extra room.
Match the shoe to your terrain
For road running, choose a shoe with a smooth outsole, such as the Under Armour Charged Assert 9DISC. For trails, the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX has a more aggressive tread. Waterproof shoes like the ALTRA Experience Flow 3 GTX are ideal for wet pavement.
Evaluate closure and convenience
Slip-on designs, like the Skechers Aero Burst, eliminate laces for quick entry. Lace-up shoes generally provide a more secure fit. If you have mobility issues or prefer convenience, slip-ons are a practical choice.
Think about materials
Most running shoes use breathable mesh, but some models use leather, like the Cole Haan Grandpro LP. Leather offers durability but may be heavier and less breathable. Consider your climate and the shoe's intended use.
Evaluate support needs
If you overpronate or need extra arch support, look for shoes labeled as supportive, like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25. Neutral shoes are fine for most runners, but those with flat feet may benefit from additional structure.
Questions
What is the difference between road running shoes and trail running shoes?
Road running shoes have a smooth, flatter outsole for pavement, while trail shoes have deeper lugs for traction on uneven surfaces, just as work shoes and boots are designed for their specific work and weather conditions. Some models, like the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX, combine both but are best for mixed terrain. Waterproof versions protect against wet conditions.
How do I know if I need a wide running shoe?
If your toes feel cramped or you experience blisters on the sides of your feet, you may need a wide fit. Look for shoes explicitly marked as wide, such as the Skechers Energy Afterburn or Saucony Echelon 11. Try them on or check the width measurements.
Are slip-on running shoes as good as lace-up ones?
Slip-on shoes offer convenience and are suitable for easy runs and walking. They may not provide the same lockdown as laces during intense workouts. For racing or speed training, lace-up shoes are often preferred for a secure fit.
Can I wear leather running shoes for everyday running?
Leather running shoes like the Cole Haan Grandpro LP are durable and stylish, but they are heavier and less breathable than mesh. They are better for short runs or walking. For long distances or hot weather, synthetic mesh is usually more comfortable.
Revision notes
- : First published.