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The level of cushioning you look for from run to run can vary greatly. “Cushioned” might mean something very different for you the day after a marathon versus the day after a rest day, so it’s important to understand what the best cushioned running shoe is for you, and when different levels of cushioning will be beneficial to your running routine.
Any day of the year, cushioned running shoes bring benefits. The most immediate is that they lessen the impact of repeated ground strike on your foot. Think about it like a shock absorber on a mountain bike: The more cushioning you have between your foot and the ground, the less you are going to feel the impact. But how those benefits translate from runner to runner can vary widely.
“While we all seek the immediate comfort a cushioned shoe can provide, the benefit of the shoe ultimately depends on your individual biomechanics and how they work with the materials and geometries used in the design,” says Bekah Broe, director of product performance footwear at Hoka. A bit of extra cushioning can be particularly beneficial for underpronators who may need running shoes for plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or achilles tendonitis.
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If you polled a group of runners and asked them to describe what a “cushioned” running shoe looks and feels like, they would probably describe something with a thick midsole that feels soft underfoot. But is that the whole truth? The reality is that the best cushioned running shoe can look and feel very different depending on the runner.
“Heavier runners compress the foam more than their lighter counterparts do, so what one runner finds cushioned, another may not,” advises running coach Cory Smith. And while increased cushioning generally provides a soft feeling that lessens the impact of ground strike, “it’s only one element in the underfoot formula that brings a running experience to life,” says Broe.
Brands have continued to innovate the space over the years, constantly introducing new tech that strives to provide the best cushioned stride for any type of runner. In fact, most of the cushioned running shoes on this list are new releases for 2024.
We consulted running experts to help demystify what makes the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. Keep reading to see our top picks for running shoes with cushioning, along with expert tips for what to look for in a cushioned running shoe for every foot type and condition.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Cushioned Running Shoes of 2024
There’s not one best overall cushioned running shoe on our list given the variation in the category and important factors that vary person to person. Selecting the right pair of cushioned running shoes for you depends on your foot type, whether you run on city pavement or gravel-laden trails, and your mileage, to name a few factors. Our editorial team considered these details and more to whittle down our top three picks for the best cushioned running shoes of 2024, all of which are highly rated and cover a range of needs and preferences. See our winners podium, below.
- Nike Alphafly 3 Running Shoes: The best cushioned running shoes for race day are Nike’s top-rated super shoes, the Alphafly 3 Running Shoes. Responsible for a slew of marathon records and personal bests, these sneakers propel you to the finish line with Nike’s highest rebounding foam, ZoomX, plus a full-length carbon fiber plate.
- Hoka Speedgoat 6 Running Shoes: Recently featured Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 sneakers are the best cushioned trail running shoes according to our experts. For the latest iteration, Hoka was able to increase the amount of bouncy cushioning without increasing the shoes’ weight for a comfortable ride.
- adidas Supernova Prima Sneakers: Those who are looking for cushioned running shoes for everyday jogs, training runs, and walking should opt for adidas’ Supernova Prima sneakers. These shoes team adidas’ newest foam, Dreamstrike Pro, with a stability-boosting Support Rod system for supreme comfort and energy return.
Weight: 7.6 oz
Materials: ZoomX + Zoom Air midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Speed and cushioning are typically two opposing forces: Highly cushioned running shoes are typically bulkier and heavier than traditional running shoes, which can slow you down. But the Alphafly 3 mystically breaks that mold. What’s the secret sauce to this top Nike running shoe? The combination of Nike’s highest rebounding foam, ZoomX, plus a full-length carbon fiber plate.
While keeping key elements of the Alphafly series, this third iteration is now 15 percent lighter than previous models. The Alphafly 3 shoes also improve on previous versions of the super shoes with a last that expands around the midfoot for more comfort around the arch. In October 2023, the late Kelvin Kiptum wore a prototype of these Nike super shoes when he broke the men’s marathon record at the Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:00:35.
What testers say: “Alphafly 3 fits like a glove with decent room for the toes! They’re light (not bulky like the previous version), comfy, and most importantly fast. I literally broke my personal time in my first run.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $285
Weight: 9.8 oz men’s; 8.2 oz women’s
Materials: EVA foam midsole; Vibram Megagrip with Traction Lug
Drop: 5 millimeters
“The Speedgoat has created a signature Hoka ride on the trails and taken countless athletes reliably across ultra distances, over gnarly terrain and into new levels they never thought possible,” says Colin Ingram, vice president of global product at Hoka. “With each iteration of the shoe, we have continuously innovated the Speedgoat, pushing the boundaries on the trail.”
For the Speedgoat 6, Hoka increased the amount of cushioning in the sneakers without increasing the total weight — a major win. The brand also upped the durability of the sneakers with new mesh material in the upper; note that this decreases the ventilation, but that feature may be appealing to those seeking out winter running shoes.
See more of Footwear News’ Great Shoes of All Time
What testers say: “I like the new Speedgoat 6 much better than the Speedgoat 5, and I’ve owned several pairs of 5s. Positives: Same fit with the wide width. Stiffer front sole and much stiffer heel counter. Brought back the heel loop. Eliminated the horizontal seam between the toe and laces that would occasionally catch on rocks. Negatives: The initial release is only available in eye-scorching colors. Highly recommended!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $155
Weight: 290 grams men’s; 242 grams women’s
Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining, Dreamstrike+ midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters men’s; 7 millimeters women’s
For stability and control with every foot strike, the Supernova Prima sneakers feature a fine-tuned Support Rod system that provides more stability in the forefoot. And for comfort when you work up a sweat, these top cushioned running shoes have a breathable engineered mesh upper that’s breathable and doesn’t rub while you clock miles.
What testers say: “Like running on clouds. Great bounce and lovely soft cushioning around the ankle. Definitely recommended.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Weight: 275 g men’s; 230 g women’s
Materials: CloudTec midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
These are by far Smith’s favorite On running shoes. They offer a fun, bouncy feel with every stride, and considering how lightweight they are, they make a great long-run, uptempo or even race day shoe when comfort is a top priority.
Editor testing and review notes: “I turned to On’s cushioned running shoes after a spat of plantar fasciitis that left my feet tight and in pretty constant pain. After swapping them into my rotation for road runs in New York City or treadmill workouts, my foot pain has substantially subsided. I have to lace them pretty tightly for a secure fit — they truly are a wide fit. But they’re worth it for me because of the comfortable, bouncy ride they deliver.” — Footwear News Senior Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Weight: 9.4 oz men’s; 8.1 oz women’s
Materials: PWRRUN midsole, CenterPath Technology
Drop: 6 millimeters
The CenterPath Technology provides a broad platform and higher sidewalls that keep your foot in proper alignment as you move. Couple that with the excellent PWRRUN cushioned midsole and you have a stability shoe that should be high on your list for consideration.
What testers say: “Great shoe for stability and comfort, helps with plantar fasciitis!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Weight: 9.7 oz men’s; 8.4 oz women’s
Materials: Light BOOST midsole, textile upper and lining
Drop: 10 millimeters
Excellent performance aside, these also make for some of the best cushioned running shoes for standing all day or walking. Sneakerheads love the Ultraboost for its clean, classic aesthetic, so you’ll look great around town–even if you’re moving at a slower pace.
Editor testing and review notes: “Trusty heel-to-toe comfort truly sets adidas’ Ultraboost 5X sneakers apart from previous pairs. After a couple of steps in these sneakers, the emphasis on energy return was evident, and that’s all thanks to the airy and responsive Light BOOST midsole. I even wore the Ultraboost 5X sneakers to the gym in place of my typical adidas workout shoes, spending time on the stair climber and rowing machine, only to realize they’re just as equipped to take on all types of daily exercises — not just running.” — Footwear News contributor Yoni Yardeni
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Weight: 8.9 oz men’s; 7.2 oz women’s
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Everything about the model is the epitome of luxury, from the pillow-like cushioning under your feet to the heavily padded tongue and heel collar. The Clifton 9 is Smith’s go-to shoe for recovery runs and occasions when you need long distance running shoes, when your legs just can’t handle the harsh impact of concrete. Sometimes, tall, softer midsoles can feel mushy and wobbly, but while this model is not classified as a stability running shoe, its wide base allows for a secure, stable ride. A new, lighter midsole compound also knocked nearly 15 percent off the weight of this model compared to previous iterations, giving the Clifton 9 a faster feeling.
What testers say: “The Clifton 8’s have been a life saver for me!! I couldn’t imagine walking around without them on me Feet!! I recommend these sneakers to everyone I can! I even buy them as gifts for family members!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Courtesy of Nike
Weight: 10.9 oz men’s; 9.1 oz women’s
Materials: ZoomX midsole
Drop: 9 millimeters
It has an exaggerated, wide forefoot that allows for a more stable ride and makes it one of the best cushioned running shoes with a wide toe box. You would think a shoe this wide and thick-soled would be a drag, but it’s not at all. Thanks to the bouncy foam and slight rockered forefoot, heel-to-toe transitions are made smooth and snappy. While all the softness underfoot lessens the impact, the Flyknit upper wraps your foot in complete comfort.
What testers say: “The ZoomX foam is the star here. Very, very cushy and yet reasonably responsive for all the cushioning. This shoe is about as easy on my legs as any shoe I’ve ever worn.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Weight: 305 grams men’s; 260 grams women’s
Materials: FF Blast Eco Plus midsole; Hybrid Asicsgrip
Drop: 8 millimeters
This cushioned running shoe provides superior cushioning from a midsole that stands up extremely well to compression and really any weight load. The midsole is also wider than many, creating a stable base and making this a superior neutral shoe suitable for runners of any weight class.
What testers say: “They are just heavenly to wear and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Weight: 9.8 oz men’s; 7.7 oz women’s
Materials: Fresh Foam X midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
It’s not a racing shoe, but it has the ability to respond if your competitive side takes over. The engineered knit upper is one the best Smith has ever tested. It reminds him somewhat of Nike’s Flyknit or Adidas’ Primeknit upper. It’s soft, stretchy and super comfortable and accommodating to a wide array of foot shapes. This would be a great option for runners who struggle to find wide enough shoes due to the stretchy nature of the upper.
What testers say: “The most comfortable shoes you will ever wear. I tried a handful of shoes from Hoka, On Cloud, Nike, and other models of NB, and these were three levels above anything else comfort-wise. Not even close.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Weight: 9.17 oz men’s; 8.46 oz women’s
Materials: Energy Foam midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
If you’re used to Salomon running shoes, you’ll find the Ultra Glide 2 to have a more relaxed fit through the mid and forefoot. This wider design gives your feet more room, accommodating foot swell during extra-long or hot days on the trails, and making it a great pair of shoes for wide feet. Like most maximum cushioned shoes, it doesn’t perform the best through tacky technical terrain. But when it comes to smooth single track, fire roads or even concrete roads, it offers the same smooth sailing we loved in the original Ultra Glide.
What testers say: “The cushion is amazing. It feels like I can run all day. Overall a great shoe, perfect for buffed-out trails/fire roads here on the Central Coast of California.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Weight: 13 oz men’s; 10.95 oz women’s
Materials: Balanced cushioning midsole
Drop: 0 millimeters
These shoes offer excellent cushioning thanks to the thick 33 mm Balanced Cushioning midsole but where they really excel is in underfoot traction. They feature a Vibram outsole and super deep canted lugs that are purposefully placed underneath the metatarsals to provide even more traction than usual. If you’re willing to spend a bit extra to keep your foot comfortable over any terrain, the Altra Olympus 6 is the shoe for you.
What testers say: “These are hands down the best running shoes that I’ve ever purchased – they fit my feet perfectly. I have a wide forefoot (thanks to ski boots), high arch, high instep, and narrow heel and even hoka’s weren’t as comfortable. Not to mention I can easily fit my superfeet orthotics in them.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $174
Weight: 10.1 oz men’s; 9.1 oz women’s
Materials: DNA Loft V2 midsole
Drop: 12 millimeters
The midsole is built up a bit more than other models which is great for your alignment and countering plantar fasciitis. Not only are these some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, but they’re also top cushioned running shoes for flat feet, wide feet, and even bad knees as well. And with improvements to Brooks’ DNA Loft cushioning in the midsole, the ride is softer and lighter than ever.
What testers say: “These are my second pair of Adrenaline GTS, I did a six mile run straight out of the box.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Courtesy of Asics
Weight: 8.9 oz men’s; 7.8 oz women’s
Materials: Flytefoam Blast PLUS Midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
The Flytefoam Blast midsole offers up a soft, smooth ride perfect for everyday runs, with one reviewer mentioning the style is ideal for athletes who “prefer a bouncy, cushioned feel but also like to pick up the pace a little.” With an over-exaggerated midsole under the heel and eight millimeter drop, the Novablast 4 builds on the excellence of previous models and is a great choice for rearfoot strikers seeking a neutral shoe. If you haven’t worn an Asics running shoe in a while, this is the one we suggest you try.
What testers say: “They are my current standard choice for asphalt/concrete running training. They are cushy and bouncy, while also allowing me to run faster if I choose to. I believe that thanks to these shoes I improved my running form. These are neutral shoes, and thanks to the softness of the sole foam I discovered that I’m slightly pronating, which even computer imaging of my feet did not pick up. Knowing this helped me a lot to adjust how I run as well. If you are a neutral runner, and want an upgrade over your typical beginner running trainers, these shoes should be on the top of your list.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
What to Look for in the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
- Level of cushioning: The amount of foam in between your foot and the ground is called stack height, and it’s one of the most obvious indicators of cushioning according to Smith. The higher the stack of the shoe, the more cushioning it contains and the softer the ride is likely to feel.
- Firmness: The other major factor in determining cushioning according to Smith, is the durometer, or the firmness of the foam under your foot. You can use a device to get a reading on the materials. The higher the reading, the firmer, and therefore less plush, the material is.
- Materials: With stack height and durometer in mind, you’ll want to look for shoes that utilize materials and technologies that are appropriate for your own personal preferences. Not all foams are created equal, so pay attention to how the individual foam feels under your foot. A shoe with a high stack could also feature materials that score high on a durometer and might not be as cushioned as you want.
- Weight: More cushioning generally means more materials and generally means more weight. Be ready to carry a slightly heavier load on your runs. If that’s a deterrent for you, pay close attention to brands like adidas that offer lightweight cushioning technologies.
The Different Types of Cushioned Running Shoes
- Long-distance cushioned running shoes: When you’re logging long miles, you’re also subjecting your body to extra stress and opening up the possibility of injuries like plantar fasciitis. A well cushioned running shoe can help prevent many of those issues. Look for shoes with thick midsoles that are fairly rigid and feature structure in both the sole and heel counter. The more there is to keep your foot into position, the better.
- Cushioned trail-running shoes: When you’re on the trail, the surfaces you are going to encounter underfoot are a lot more variable. Find shoes that offer thick lugs to give you traction, rock plates or even carbon fiber to help protect your feet from injury on craggy surfaces, and waterproofing to keep you dry when you cross a stray creek.
- Cushioned running shoes for walking: The best shoes for running are also generally some of the best shoes for walking for men and women. But walking and running have very different gaits and affect your foot strike differently. When selecting the best running shoe for walking don’t worry as much about the weight of your shoe. Heavy, dense foams will provide you with better stability and are better aligned to the consistent, slow pace of walking.
- Cushioned running shoes for standing all day: Staying on your feet all day leaves you exposed to more strain than normal. To avoid common overuse injuries seek out shoes that have extra cushioning in the heel, good midfoot and arch support, and moisture wicking materials to keep your feet dry.
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
It’s always important to listen to your feet, and that is especially true when you know you are predisposed to a certain foot type or condition. You will want to look for cushioned running shoes that include the same special features you normally seek out.
- Cushioned running shoes for flat feet: Flat feet are defined by low arches or a foot that entirely touches the ground. If that is you, look for shoes that have a wide last with a design that is relatively straight underfoot.
- Cushioned running shoes for wide feet: For those with particularly wide feet you’ll want to find shoes that come in multiple widths. Lacking that option, make sure that the model you select has a roomy toe box, or shop shoe brands known for having a wider fit, like On.
- Cushioned running shoes for stability: Stability is of key importance for those who overpronate (aka when arch of your foot falls inward). Look for shoes with plenty of arch support and stabilizing features like medial posts, heel counters, and heel wedges.
- Cushioned running shoes for back pain and knee pain: If you’re on your feet all day, chances are you might suffer from more knee pain or back pain than others. Extra cushioning coupled with a snug, supportive fit are a great first step to alleviating both problems.
Cushioned Running Shoes FAQs
Who should wear cushioned running shoes?
Who should wear a cushioned running shoe and when really comes down to your personal preference and the intent behind your runs. Cushioned running shoes generally offer, “a softer or compliant ride that feels like a luxurious, even cruise-like experience,” comments Hoka’s Broe. You, like Smith, might appreciate a cushioned running shoe on a recovery day. Or you might look for more cushioning to help combat the terrain or your trail runs or provide the added comfort you need to go the extra miles in your long-distance running shoes. And they can be particularly helpful if you suffer from any number of foot conditions, especially plantar fasciitis.
How often should I buy cushioned running shoes?
As with any running shoe, it’s better to err on the side of caution and replace them prematurely. And since cushioned shoes tend to have very soft midsoles, you will probably need to replace them more often according to Smith. “As the foam compresses repeatedly with each foot strike, it starts to lose its rebounding properties and can have the potential to wear unevenly,” he warns. And when that happens your risk of injury goes way up.
Keep an eye out for some of the telltale signs of a compressed or uneven midsole, like creases and lines along the sidewalls of your shoes or holes in your uppers. Smith generally advises they should last through about 200 miles or six months of wear.
What are the best cushioned running shoes for heavy runners?
Exerting more force onto the sole of your foot causes more compression. That means that the heavier you are the more compression you are going to experience. If that is the case, your impression what the best cushioned running shoe might be different than that of a lighter runner. You’ll be interested in looking for models that sport denser cushioning materials and, subsequently, probably weigh a bit more as well. The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1050 V13 are all options with excellent, dense foam midsoles that stand up well to compression.
How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
When it comes to selecting the best shoes in any category, we take the job very seriously, constantly testing models throughout the year. And that was no exception when we sought out the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. We tapped Cory Smith, an expert running coach, tested most of the shoes ourselves, interviewed industry experts, and scoured online reviews to compile real customer feedback. The result is a researched list of the best cushioned running shoes for all foot types and conditions. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Cory Smith has been a runner and running coach for over 25 years. He holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 and 2 Endurance Certification, three former Maryland State records, and is a two-time NCAA Division National championships qualifier.
Bekah Broe is the director of product for performance footwear at Hoka.
Meet the Authors
Peter Tittiger is a freelance journalist and content consultant. He is also an avid runner and a slave to his feet. A firm believer in “No Days Off,” he regularly logs at least five runs a week and cross-trains in the pool or on a bike. He has trained for and run in nearly a hundred races, including the New York City Marathon, multiple completions of the full, 5-borough, NYRR half-marathon circuit, and annual completion of the Falmouth Road Race.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot-related topics like plantar fasciitis or at-home foot peels. Sullivan, who’s completed two half marathons, contributed to the September 2024 update of this article on the best cushioned running shoes and owns multiple pairs on this list.
