We Tested Podiatrist-Recommended Running Shoes —These Are the 10 We Actually Recommend

If you’re a lady looking for an uber-comfy shoe to cruise around in, Brook’s Ghost Max is an excellent choice. True to its name, it has “max” level cushioning to reduce impact and make for an extremely enjoyable run — some even compare it to walking on clouds. We especially like that it’s versatile enough to be worn both for exercise or long days on your feet.

Its neutral, 6 millimeter (mm) drop level (the difference in height between the heel and forefoot) makes it a Goldilocks shoe that appeals to people with a variety of preferences. The plush midsole reduces shock as well as heel, ankle, knee, and lower back pain. The shoe also helps runners stay stable over terrains like slippery cobblestone streets. Just note that as a maximalist shoe, it’s on the clunkier side and isn’t built for running speed or performance.

The Hoka Challenger 7 can take you from trail to track, rain or shine. It has grippy soles to keep you stable over a variety of terrains, and the Gore-Tex version is weatherproofed, so you have no excuses not to run on rainy days. Being in sunny coastal California, I tested the non-Gore-Tex version, which kept me safe over dewy grass, rocks, and mud. The plush midsole protected my feet from cold concrete, and the cushioning gave the shoes a bit of bounce, making them quite comfortable.

Despite this extra cushioning, the shoe was still lightweight enough to make my runs feel almost effortless. The breathable mesh upper makes the shoe a great choice for warmer weather, but with a pair of warm wool socks, I was prepared for colder days. I will say that the sizing felt slightly off — they were big enough for my heel to slip a bit, but any smaller size would have probably been too snug. Also, I was disappointed that the sneakers lacked reflective components. Since the style is meant for all conditions, seeing some reflective details to enhance visibility would have been nice.

Ready to hit the trail in 2025? This shoe is designed for rugged terrain and features a wide toe box, which allows toes to splay naturally for better stability and comfort on uneven trails. I tested these shoes on a variety of landscapes, from flat to rocky, and found they provided outstanding grip and traction. They’re also cushioned and comfy, without sacrificing ground feel, so I could still feel and navigate the earth beneath me.

It’s important to note that as a zero-drop shoe, the heel and forefoot are at the same level. This style encourages a more natural foot strike by mimicking how our feet naturally rest when barefoot. According to Fuchs, zero-drop shoes can strengthen the feet and encourage a more natural foot position, but they may not provide enough support for everyone. If you’re used to a higher drop, make sure to work down to a zero-drop shoe gradually. Since there’s less cushioning, I find this shoe style wonderful for running on a trail but not cushioned enough for the pavement.

According to Fuchs, people with high arches should seek out both cushioning and flexibility, as these features absorb shock and relieve pressure on the arches. This New Balance pair has an ample foam midsole for a plush and protected ride, plus the shoes still bend naturally to the foot's movement.

The shoe's upper part is flexible and breathable yet keeps feet nice and secure. Between the dynamic yet cushioned midsole and the protective mesh upper shoe, this sneaker is ideally suited to those with high arches. Other bonuses include reflective details to keep you protected in low visibility and great traction that can take you over a variety of terrains. Although, if you plan on racing in these kicks, you might want to reconsider — they’re a bit too bulky for that.

Being flat-footed myself, I tested the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 over a variety of terrains and found its GuideRails support system — which is designed to gently align your feet, knees, and hips — was effective at keeping my feet in a neutral position. The plush midsole made for a comfortable and springy ride, and the arch support kept my feet feeling stable. Also, thanks to an unfortunate injury over a decade ago, I have a bit of sensitivity in my left knee, but the cushioning kept me feeling protected. All of that said, the shoe’s support system could feel a little rigid for some, and they’re a bit clunky.

Well-cushioned shoes with proper support can help minimize impact for people with knee pain or back pain, says Fuchs. The Cloudeclipse offers both. Its signature CloudTec cushioning is made to adapt to your body, absorbing strain and reducing impact for a safer and more comfortable run. The shoe also contains Helion superfoam, which has both soft and stiff elements, providing the ideal combination of support and cushioning. The shoe stands out for its great traction, making it an excellent choice for running in wet conditions. However, these sneakers are a bit too clunky and big to be used for racing (where lightweight, minimalist shoes usually perform best).

If you struggle with heel pain, known as plantar fasciitis, shoes with excellent cushioning, particularly in the heel, and arch support are essential, says Fuchs. The Brooks Glycerin GTS offers both. Much like other Brooks styles, it has a reputation among runners for exceptional cushioning that relieves fatigue and the effects of plantar fasciitis, plus innersoles that mold to your feet and offer relief from any post-run arch pain.

The shoes’ springy cushion may help relieve joint and muscle pain. Plus, the shoe has Brooks’ signature GuideRails system, designed to keep your foot in a stable neutral position. While we are big fans of the GuideRails system, the feature might feel restrictive to some. Also, it’s worth noting that these sneakers are on the heavier side.

What’s more, the shoe has exceptional cushioning — I tested it from trail to pavement and found it was one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever tried. I know I’ll be reaching for these sneakers again and again, but our research has found that their firm cushioning might not be great for people with other gait types.