The 10 Best Running Shoes for Women
You may have heard that running is one of the cheapest sports. Why exactly? Well, in addition to the encouragement you need to participate in a strong pair of running shoes.
The point is, finding the right pair can be difficult, to say the least.
There are many brands and models to choose from. And even if you are an experienced specialist, you should change your shoes almost every 500 miles. New models and brands come on the market all the time. Is your head still spinning?
What’s the difference between men’s and women’s running shoes?
Compared to men, a 2009 study found that women's feet have a narrower heel when it comes to ball circumference.
Most running shoes sold for women cause heel differences in their design, so you can see the difference in heel shapes and sometimes heel material between male and female models of the same shoe. Can expect
Research has also shown that because women's hips are wider than men's, when they walk and run, the outer part of their soles hit the ground first - also called pronation. Many women's running shoes have a variety of arc supports with pronation in mind.
Women's running shoes are also lighter and softer than men's shoes.
However, you don't have to rely on "men's" or "women's" shoes based on how they are sold or marketed. Choose the product that fits you best with the fit, style and features.
How we chose
The following shoes get high marks for quality, comfort and value. In addition, we've included some great choices to suit your foot structure or training needs.
Lastly, it is best to consult a podiatrist if you have any specific problems or injuries.
Pricing guide
$ = under $100
$$ = $100–$150
$$$ = over $150
Best overall
Brooks Ghost 12 (Women's)
Ghost has been a popular choice for many years with new and experienced runners. Runner World testers say it's versatile and can get you through anything from fast work to long distance running.
The current model has updated its design using 3D printing to create an upper, breathable mesh. As an added bonus, Brooks has some interesting colors and patterns to choose from - like Buffalo Plaid!
Considerations: Observers note that this shoe is small and narrow in size. Others say there is a lack of arc support. And if you need shoes to PR in your next 10K, their weight - 9.3 ounces - may not be the best racing shoe.
Altra Torin 4 Plush (Women's)
Key Features: Ultra is becoming more and more popular due to its wide toe box and prominent pillows. This "plush" ride is spacious and easily accommodates wide legs. One reviewer even says, "This is my first pair of ultra shoes, and I can't understand why not everyone wears them."
Bonus points: This shoe also bears the seal of approval of the American Podiatric Medical Association for the promotion of good foot health.
Considerations: A long time Ultra fan says that she thinks that with each new model the shoes are getting longer and thinner. Another says the area near Achilles tendon is elevated and has ankle sprains.
Asics Gel-Kayano 26
Key Features: Less arched or flat-footed runners can wrap their feet too high or inward with each step. Gel-Kayano prides itself on durability properties - strong foam on the inside of the shoe helps correct this movement. It also includes GEL cushioning technology to absorb shock for long distance walking.
Considerations: Observers say that this shoe is shorter and narrower, so you may want to increase the size. Others mention that the toe box is tight. Overall, while the company says the shoe is well suited to exceed the neutral gait, reviewers say the motion control is perfect for the period.
Mizuno Wave Creation 20
Key Features: The 20th version of Mizuno's Wave Creation includes a wave plate that helps absorb shock better than standard foam. This shoe also fits snugly for extra comfort and safety. Reviewers say that the arc support in these shoes has helped them to solve problems like plantar fasciitis.
Considerations: A long-time Wave Runner wearer shares that the material in this model may not be as snug as in previous models. It is also not a very lightweight shoe, which comes in at 11.6 ounces. The price is also high.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10
Key Features: The hypoconate upper part of the fresh foam is stretched, has no abrasive seams, and fits like a sock. You can buy this shoe especially in wide and extra width, which is not suitable with every brand and model.
Beyond the width, the sole is lightweight and flexible. The foam also has laser engraving to help remove excess weight. Observers say the model boasts a wider toe box than the previous iteration.
Considerations: Some people say that the size of these shoes is closed and you want to order at least one and a half size. Some observers have been bothered by the tightness of the shoe, even when ordering extra width.
Saucony Ride ISO
Key Features: For neutral runners, Ride ISO fits like a dream. Its ISOFIT and FORMFIT technologies allow the sole to fit the shape and overall movement of your feet. It is well suited for ordinary arches, and observers say that this model's toe box has more space than other Saucony.
The shoe also has a piece of woven heel that helps keep the heel in place after a mile. And its moderate cushioning helps provide a relatively light experience (8.5 ounces) that will take you further in your long run days.
Considerations: Some observers who were wearing the previous model of this shoe say that the fit has changed dramatically. Although it can happen occasionally, they do report "hot spots" on the heels of the feet and on the balls.
Others note that materials are not the most durable - one person even says that their shoes had less than 100 miles of wear holes.
Salomon Speedcross 4
Key Features: One of Amazon's best-selling trail shoes, Speedcross gets high marks for its high traction, cushioning, and light weight design. Some observers share that while it is a tight shoe, it provides plenty of foot space. Most observers have suggested that this shoe fits just as well as they would expect, so you can fit in with your usual size.
Considerations: One reviewer took the time to note which routes these shoes are best for. Lastly, Speed Cross works well on gravel, mud and wet leaves. On the other hand, the reviewer feels that the shoes are not good enough to cross sidewalks, smooth surfaces, and obstacles such as logs and rivers.
HOKA Rincon
Key Features: This cushioned, super light shoe will keep you comfortable as well as take you to fast working days. The ride weighs just 6.3 ounces and has a 5.00 mm heel to toe drop to promote a more natural journey. It's perfect for neutral runners who like balanced cushions.
Considerations: testers say this shoe is a solid choice, but it has at least out-of-the-box rubber. This means that exposed foam on the sole can show rapid wear and needs to be replaced quickly.
Asics DynaFlyte 4
Key Features: ASICS says the DynaFlyte shoe is designed for runners with "speed requirements". It features the FLYTEFOAM Lyte midsole, which provides a responsive, lightweight (7.5 ounce) pillow made from organic fibers.
One reviewer states that she is influenced by the history of moderately high arches and plantar fasciitis, and that she appreciates the combination of shoe cushions and durability.
Considerations: Many runners say that these shoes, especially the foot bed, have a hard side. One reviewer (who is also a physical therapist and running coach) suggests that the toe box cover can also be flexible and uncomfortable.
Altra Provision 6
The durability in Provision 6 takes on a new look, the best version of shoes we've ever experienced. Ultra's "stable pods" are gone, a three-point stabilizer of firm foam on either side of the front foot and on the lateral side of the heel. And, the guide rail that used to wrap around the midfoot and heel border is now virtually hidden and the Ego midsole has been further strengthened. As such, Provision (the shoe of stability) looks like a neutral trainer. It also has a two-finger middle strap, which attaches the lacing to the footbed for a more secure hold. Some testers found that the construction gave them a better understanding of how and where their footsteps landed. Even if you don't need this kind of control, your foot has better resistance to slipping inside the shoe.