We’re finally starting to see shoe brands starting to make women’s running shoes without simply “shrinking and pinking” models that were originally designed for men. Women’s (and AFAB) feet are built a bit differently, and therefore, we think that finding the best women’s running shoes means finding shoes designed with our feet in mind.
At Runner’s World, our test team includes women runners with different foot shapes, running economies, and arch types. The same goes for the half of our 300+ local testers who evaluate women’s running shoes. We vary in age, running experience, and foot strike; and all of that information informs how we recommend running shoes for each and every woman runner.
Women’s feet have distinct structural differences than men’s feet. From shape to proportions to biomechanics, all of these things significantly impact shoe fit and comfort. For example, while men’s feet typically present a more uniform width from heel to forefoot, women’s feet tend to be wider in the forefoot relative to the heel. Any lady who has felt their toes get squished as their heel slips right out of the shoe knows this issue.
Recognizing these anatomical differences, and responding to the hoards of women runners clamoring for something better, running shoe manufacturers have (finally) started to incorporate more gender-specific design elements into their products. This means crafting shoes with distinct features tailored to the unique shape and biomechanics of women’s feet. For instance, a women’s running shoe might feature a wider toebox to accommodate the broader ball of the foot, while a narrower heel counter secures the back of the foot and prevents slippage. Additionally, the materials used in the heel construction might differ between men’s and women’s versions to account for variations in where we strike our foot when we land. Women and men obviously have different centers of gravity—especially when we’re pregnant—and that changes how we strike and the wear pattern of our soles.
Brands are not just shrinking and pinking the shoes anymore. Their aim is to enhance performance and prevent running-related aches and pains. A shoe that fits properly and supports the foot’s natural movement can improve running efficiency and reduce the risk of common running-related injuries, such as blisters, plantar fasciitis, the pedi-ick black toenails, and shin splints.
Researchers have also found that, because women tend to have wider hips than men, women’s feet are more likely to strike the ground toward the outside of their shoe soles. The inward rolling of the foot, called pronation, that results from this explains why more women are believed to overpronate than men (AKA, walk a bit duck-footed.). Some women’s running shoes account for this increased tendency with stability features in the sole, such as guide rails and medial posts, to provide more support.
Runner’s World has been around for more than 50 years providing news, fitness tips, and, of course, gear recommendations for runners. Our product guides for essentials like running shoes and shorts are based on the hard work of our test team, who put the latest and greatest running gear through their paces day in and day out. In 2025, the Runner’s World gear reviewers include Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate and Test Editors Amanda Furrer and Morgan Petruny, as well as Senior Reviews Editor Cat Bowen.
Furrer and Bowen most recently updated our recommendations here based on extensive testing, as well as data provided by the Runner’s World wear-test program.
We picked the shoes here based on feedback from the women who are part of our 250-runner-strong team of local wear-testers, the expertise of our test editors, and the mechanical data we collect in our RW Shoe Lab. We evaluated every shoe over the course of at least 100 miles, paying attention to overall performance, comfort, ride, longevity, and value.
To ensure our shoe recommendations are truly comprehensive and trustworthy, we grabbed a wide array of shoe types to put through our rigorous testing. This involved evaluating them across diverse terrains, including challenging trails, smooth tracks, varied road surfaces, and—of course—treadmills. Our massive wear-test team allows us to gather feedback from individuals ranging from sprinters to marathoners, runners of different weights and body types, those with different foot strikes, shoe needs, and biomechanics. By combining varied surface testing with a diverse runner pool, we learn a ton about each shoe’s performance and suitability for a wide range of users and individual experiences. Based on our extensive testing, the options below are currently the best running shoes for women.
| Best For | Everyday runs/daily training |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Max |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | 7.9 oz. |
This versatile daily trainer is a great option for easy jogs and longer training runs, and it won’t hold you back if you decide to do a little pace chasing. The Novablast 5 is a dynamic running shoe, offering a truly exceptional experience. The ultra-breathable engineered jacquard mesh upper ensures comfort even when you’re getting up there in temps, while the cool tongue wing construction provides a secure, rub-free fit. What truly sets this shoe apart is the FF Blast Max cushioning that gives a lightweight and incredibly energetic ride. The trampoline-inspired (truly, that’s how Asics describe it) outsole enhances responsiveness, offering a positive amount of bounce back. Plus, the omgsobright reflective details add a crucial safety element for those early morning or late evening runs.
From our tester Stephanie Petrides: “I was always an Asics girl growing up and only switched to other running shoes in my mid-twenties. The Novablast 5 reminded me of why I used to love running in Asics—they just fit my feet really well. I loved the cushioning and felt like my feet and knees did not take a beating because of how well cushioned these shoes are.”
| Best For | Daily training |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Bouncy and plush |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | 7.5 oz. |
For a rare find at $110, the Under Armour Hovr Sonic 7 offers surprising quality and performance. This beast of a budget-friendly running shoe has a modern, sleek design with fewer cutouts than its predecessor. (Someone tell us why shoe makers think we want these?) The big updates include a softer, lighter Hovr midsole and a lower 26mm stack height—unique in 2025 when stack heights tend to hover around 40mm. It is a tad on the narrow side, but we actually feel this is a boon for runners with slim feet and heels; the cushioning doesn’t wear quickly to create gaps in the shoe where blisters and hot spots like to form.
Overall, the Sonic 7 is an excellent choice for new runners seeking an entry-level performance trainer or the budget-conscious among us looking for a premium lightweight option. This shoe is versatile, suitable for various runs from warmups to fartlek speed sessions. It’s an old faithful-style trainer.
From tester Shayne Murray: “This is a budget shoe but doesn’t feel low-end. It hugs the foot in the right places, is comfortable, and even feels a little plush. Run in them and you even get a little bounce (legs don’t feel like tree stumps) and they are lightweight. I just tested the Brooks Revel last round in the same price range, and this is the better shoe (by far).”
| Best For | Long runs, maximizing mileage |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral to supportive |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 6mm |
| Weight | 9.5 oz. |
The Glycerin Max delivers a killer running experience, prioritizing both plush comfort and energetic responsiveness—no, those are not mutually exclusive. The shoe had a smooth, clean energy transfer from heel to pushoff. But the dual-density DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused foam makes it really special. Larger foam cells in the heel provide a soft, cushioned landing, while smaller cells in the forefoot act like the spring on a pogo stick, propelling you forward with each stride. The way the foam is laid out creates that cloudlike airy feel and the powerful responsiveness, making every run feel genuinely better, especially if you are a ground slapper. Intended for road running and those seeking maximum cushioning, the Glycerin Max also incorporates sustainable materials, with recycled materials in the upper and eight plastic bottles diverted from landfills.
We do think that this shoe smells a bit stronger than others, and we know that’s odd. But when we opened our pair, it smelled strongly of “shoe store,” so to speak. It does wear off, but if you are sensitive to odors, you will need to let these babies breathe a bit first.
From our tester Kylie Rodriguez: “Brooks Glycerin Max is one of the best pairs of shoes I have tested. This December, I ran everyday, and they have held up very well. They provided comfort, and I had no aches, blisters, or hot spots. They provided stability AND comfort throughout my runs! I ran pushing a stroller outside but really felt like these helped my pace and propelled me forward with the sloping design of the shoe.”
Full Brooks Glycerin Max Review
| Best For | Long runs, walking |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 5mm |
| Weight | 9.3 oz. |
The Bondi 9 is an ultra-cushioned shoe that is perfect for everyday running and walking. It has a new premium foam midsole that provides a fresh-feeling, supple ride, and a 3D-molded collar and structured knit upper that gives a Goldilocks amount of cozy comfort and support. Hoka’s fancy schmancy Durabrasion rubber bolsters the parts of the shoe that tend to wear out quickly, like the outer edge we mentioned earlier. We tested the shoe, running 100- and 200-meter intervals on the treadmill at 6:40 pace, and were surprised how smoothly it slid on the belt. Other testers ran long in the shoe at a more modest pace, and they described the feel as noticeably lighter than previous models and incredibly comfortable. We recommend the Hoka Bondi 9 to anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for everyday running and walking. And not for nothing, but it just looks really cool.
From tester Michelle Garges: “The Hoka Bondi 9 was versatile enough to slip in and go. There wasn’t any part of the shoe that was terribly uncomfortable or didn’t work for me. All that to say, it is a very hard-feeling shoe. I ran all road and used them for speedwork, pick-me-ups, and tempo runs.
| Best For | Race day |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 9mm |
| Weight | 6.4 oz. |
The Endorphin Elite 2 offers a uniquely swift run. The shoe features Saucony’s IncrediRUN foam, a TPEE-based material designed to provide a soft and responsive ride. This foam delivers what could be described as a “spongy propulsion” feel, which some runners may really like. To balance that springiness, Saucony has updated the Elite 2 with a Pwrtrac outsole for enhanced traction. Our testing revealed that the IncrediRUN foam is quite responsive, which, combined with the Pwrtrac outsole, provides a stable grip during cornering and descents. The shoe is lightweight, with the women’s version at 6.4 ounces, and has an 8mm offset. Made to get your speed on, this is truly a race-day shoe, featuring a full-length, slotted carbon-fiber plate for smooth transitions and a propulsive feel. The upper is a featherweight knit and mesh designed to protect from the dreaded race swampfoot.
From tester Eileen Cody: “Saucony does it again with their racing shoes. I have yet to find a Saucony carbon-plated shoe that my foot hasn’t loved. They find the perfect balance of cushion and being able to feel the road for a stable ride. This sensation is especially true when completing tempo efforts as the shoe glides across the ground somehow being responsive and cushy without being hard and mushy.”
| Best For | Everyday |
|---|---|
| Support | Supportive |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Weight | 9.5 oz. |
The Glycerin GTS 22 delivers a smooth, supportive ride for runners seeking both comfort and stability. For runners who tend to overpronate all the way into the next lane, these are a favored everyday run shoe when you’re really pounding out miles. They feature Brooks’ DNA Tuned midsole, which offers a balance of plush cushioning and easy toe-offs. Larger cells in the heel provide soft landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot enhance that bounce-back feel. The GuideRails support system steady your natural motion, preventing excess movement and offering stability, especially for late-onset pronation. The double jacquard knit upper ensures a flexible and accommodating fit that feels open and airy.
With a broad platform and tuned heel and forefoot, the Glycerin GTS 22 provides smooth heel-to-toe transitions. While not as maximalist as the Glycerin Max, its versatile 38mm stack height makes it suitable for both recovery runs and daily training, absorbing shock while offering reliable support if you happen to pronate.
| Best For | Everyday |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Mixed |
| Drop | Zero |
| Weight | 8.4 oz. |
Looking for a comfortable and reliable shoe for your daily runs? The Torin 8 is a solid choice, especially if your feet tend to run a bit wide. It offers Altra’s famous zero-drop design. And the soft underfoot cushions the ground but still keeps feet from hitting fatigue too soon, thanks to the lightweight Altra Ego Max midsole.
Designed for daily running and walking, the Torin 8 features a breathable jacquard mesh upper and a secure heel collar. With a 30mm stack height providing ample cushioning and a neutral support system, it’s a versatile option. At 8.4 ounces, it’s also lightweight and flexible, making it suitable for various road miles. If you appreciate a roomy fit and natural stride, the Torin 8 is worth considering.
During testing, I gravitated toward three to six-milers in the shoes at my average 7:30 to 7:45 pace. The medium stack provided enough support for niggling Achilles pain I’ve been experiencing and the proverbial runner’s burden: sore knees.
| Best For | Speedwork |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Mixed |
| Drop | 6.5mm |
| Weight | 6.6 oz. |
You’re basically powering yourself with tiny jetpacks on your feet with the Adizero Evo SL. Okay, maybe not, but it is speedy as all hell. This shoe is built for intense speedwork sessions. The secret sauce here is their Lightstrike Pro foam in the midsole that lends comfort and, frankly, almost eye-popping energy return.
It has a regular fit, a secure lace closure, and a lightweight upper. The Evo SL gives runners a breathable, performance-ready feel. Strategic Continental rubber and CL Rubber patches ensure excellent traction and durability. Weighing just 6.6 ounces (women’s size 7.5) with a 6.5mm drop, the shoe is incredibly lightweight—ideal for pushing your limits. Plus, it contains at least 20 percent recycled content. If you’re looking to Hermes yourself a little bit to elevate your speedwork, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL may just get you there.
| Best For | Hybrid training |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral to Moderate |
| Cushioning | Plush |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | 8.5 oz. |
The R1 stands out on both road and trail. Eschewing the carbon-fiber plate, it instead features LightCell foam, a PEBA-based, nitrogen-infused product that gives tons of lightness and bounce. Mount to Coast really heard the needs of ultrarunners, because the R1 features both laces and a convenient cinch cord, allowing for easy adjustments as feet swell during long hauls. Durability is the key for hybrids, and the double-layered jacquard upper keeps the shoe in top shape for tons of miles. The dual-zone ZeroSag midsole inserts hold up, while the GoFlow geometry keeps your run smooth and easy.
From tester Heather Irvine Mayer: “I don’t know what secrets they took from Brooks and Nike (they say one of the developers is from there?) to make this THE SHOE for me—especially because I don’t generally care for Brooks or Nike shoes. The toebox! It’s roomy! My bunion feels at peace. The shoe is light. It’s firm. It’s breathable. I just fell in love. I’ve worn on long and short runs; definitely a little bit slower for quicker workouts, but this is an excellent daily trainer.”
| Best For | Trail running |
|---|---|
| Support | Neutral |
| Cushioning | Maximum |
| Drop | 5mm |
| Weight | 8.2 oz. |
The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is a trail runner’s dream, keeping you stable in the mud and muck, across rocky terrain, over the river, and through the woods. The plush platform and roomy toebox that rivals Altra’s provides an easy fit, feeling snug but not tight. The ZipFoam midsole delivers a lightweight, responsive run that makes the miles easier on your joints, while the Vibram XS Trek Evo outsole ensures excellent traction.
Whether you’re hitting up rain-soaked trails, snowy paths, or the rugged terrain of your backyard, the Ultraventure 4 will be your stable companion. The updated recycled mesh upper not only looks neat but also adds structure and durability. As one of our testers noted, these shoes are “equipped to tackle any conditions” and offer a comfort level that only gets better with each run. No hot spots, no blisters, and no need for constant adjustments—just joy from the first step. The Ultraventure 4 is truly a standout choice for light to moderate trails and seamless trail-to-road transitions.
From tester Renee Hislop: “I really liked the Topo Ultraventure 4. Although they seemed a bit wide/big when I first tried them on I had no issues running in them. The toebox was super wide, which is why I felt they seemed a little large at first. However, the more I ran in them the more I realized I didn’t mind the extra room in the toe area at all. I tested these on rolling hills and technical trails. And thanks to the recent snowfall, I got to test them out on snowy trails as well. Great grip and support on all types of surfaces.”
This list includes what we regard as the best shoe in its category. But there are still plenty of other shoes for you to choose from.
If you’re looking for trainers that are lighter than the standard everyday shoe with just a little more support than a racing flat head to our Best Lightweight Running Shoes roundup.
For the plushest ride and more foam underfoot, check out the Best Cushioned Running Shoes.
If you’re an overpronator or think you need more support, take a look at the Best Stability Shoes.
And if you want more of a selection of non-road shoes, visit the Best Trail Shoes.
No matter the distance or your shoe preferences, there’s a great shoe for you on our lists.
Cat Bowen has been covering parenting and home for over a decade. At Best Products, she has tested hundreds of products for parents and for the home, often spending dozens of hours per product to ensure her reviews are accurate and informative. Prior to joining the team, she was at Romper where she covered everything from breastfeeding to child sleep habits to abortion rights access. You can find her work on Bustle, Romper, and more. Cat is a bit of an intellectual magpie and perpetual student, most recently receiving a graduate degree in gender studies where she examined a topic that vexes so many — pockets in women’s clothing.
Amanda Furrer, Runner’s World test editor, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.
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