The 30 best running shoe brands in 2026
Nike, adidas and ASICS lead our ranking of 30 running shoe brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Running Shoe brands, ranked
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1
Nike
Blue Ribbon Sports was a sportswear company founded in 1964. After launching the Nike shoe brand, the company was rebranded as Nike in 1978. Its popularity exploded in the late 80s when it started acquiring numerous shoe companies and including a variety in its product line. In 1996, it opened a bar for extreme sports like mountain biking. Today, it is one of the most famous sports companies in the world.
Website: nike.com |Brands like Nike
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
adidas
Adi Dassler had the goal to provide athletes with only the best. In 1949, he registered a shoe that later became one of the precursors of modern Adidas shoes. In 1954, he introduced the screw-in studs for lightweight football boots that propelled the German football team to victory in the World Cup. Adidas became a household name and gained the trust of athletes. Today, Adidas enjoys global acclaim as it continues to provide premium-quality equipment.
Website: adidas.com |Brands like adidas
Popularity 9.6/10
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3
ASICS
ASICS is an imminent luxury sportswear brand. Sportstyle by ASICS is a whole new collection inspiring its customers to wear their vibe! They include sturdy and sophisticated shoes and apparel. The brand’s cushion shoe innovation lets you enjoy walking and running to work or for fun. Have you browsed through their cricket essentials yet? They are just perfect for grip on the field. You will also find medical and work shoes on the brand website one can access through the filter.
Website: asics.com |Brands like ASICS
Popularity 8.8/10
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4
New Balance
As people are getting healthier daily, the concept of workout is evolving simultaneously. Most people now opt for extreme workouts using the gym or within the comfort of their homes. To do a comfortable Workout session, people need proper accessories and clothing. New Balance is a brand to serve all health freaks with comfortable clothing and accessories to help them have a practical workout session. From apparel to shoes to various accessories, the experts at New Balance offer users a wide range of functional products.
Website: newbalance.com |Brands like New Balance
Popularity 6.6/10
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5
Reebok
Reebok was founded in 1958 and was one of the first few brands to include track spikes in running shoes. It may be considered a powerhouse today, but it only really found its footing in the 80s, thanks to the reintroduction of the ‘dad sneaker.’ It was an extension of J.W. Foster, which focused on athletic footwear that gained traction among athletes. Over time, Reebok made a name for itself worldwide.
Website: reebok.com |Brands like Reebok
Popularity 4.6/10
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6
Mizuno
Mizuno USA is a leader in the sporting goods market and sells apparel and accessories for sports like Golf and Baseball. They are all about pushing the limits and bringing out the full potential of people. The brand's products are also used in sports like running and swimming. They are primarily known for their high-performance sneakers that athletes and runners worldwide love. The company's products are also specially designed to improve performance and comfort.
Website: mizunousa.com |Brands like Mizuno
Popularity 3.9/10
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7
Saucony
Saucony aims to provide innovative, exclusive running shoes for men and women. They want to empower the human spirit, with every stride, on every run, and in every community. Founded in 1988, Saucony has been loyal to the sport for very long. The company focuses on delivering goodness to every product. With their products, they want to encourage the runners to challenge themselves every day. Comfort and durability are the key features in their shoes.
Website: saucony.com |Brands like Saucony
Popularity 3.0/10
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8
Hoka One One
Hoka One One is a French-based sports shoe business that develops and sells running shoes. The company initially earned notoriety in the running world by manufacturing shoes with larger outsoles, nicknamed "maximalist" shoes because of their additional cushioning. Hoka makes low-profile and max-cushion footwear for road, trail, and all-terrain running. Hoka shoes have a low weight-to-cushion ratio and midsole and outsole geometries that encourage inherent stability and an efficient stride across their product range.
Website: hokaoneone.com |Brands like Hoka One One
Popularity 2.5/10
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9
Salomon
Salomon is a well-known manufacturer of ski boots, skis, and snowboards. The company creates, manufactures, and sells the best quality goods for skiing, snowboarding, trail running, and hiking. Salomon's more outstanding goods are meant to improve athletes' mountain performance. Their...
Website: salomon.com |Brands like Salomon
Popularity 2.5/10
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10
Under armour
When Kevin Plank, the University of Maryland football team captain, noticed his sweaty t-shirt, he realized that there had to be something better. He created a T-shirt that keeps one cool, dry, and light for extended periods. That was when...
Website: underarmour.com |Brands like Under armour
Popularity 2.3/10
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11
Onemix
Research, development, and design combine to create Onemix's new footwear collection, which features a shoe series of light and thin woven sneakers and lightweight running shoes with advanced cushioned carbon plate & raw resin rubber outsole. Air shoes are provided...
Website: onemix.us |Brands like Onemix
Popularity 2.0/10
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12
FILA
Fitness, work, and professionalism is all that one can discover at Fila! Discover all their premium apparel collections at sensible rates on their website or store outlets. Celebrating its 110th anniversary, the brand has collaborated with prominent fashion brands releasing...
Website: fila.com |Brands like FILA
Popularity 1.7/10
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13
Altra
Altra was founded by a high school cross-country athlete duo. Their love for footwear pushed them to innovate shoes that were not an impediment to free jogs and runs. Shoes are categorized based on requirements: hikes, gym training, walking shoes,...
Website: altrarunning.com |Brands like Altra
Popularity 1.5/10
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14
La Sportiva
With an experience of over eight decades, La Sportiva is a family-run, mountain-based company. They provide innovative products which are suitable for your outdoor expedition. They have a product line for men, women, kids, footwear and clothing, and many more....
Website: sportiva.com |Brands like La Sportiva
Popularity 1.1/10
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15
Balenciaga
A company curating extraordinary clothes has revolutionized fashion for men and women, a brand endorsed by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Justin Bieber. You might have guessed it. It's Balenciaga – the best France offers to the luxury clothing industry....
Website: balenciaga.com |Brands like Balenciaga
Popularity 1.1/10
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16
JT
JT Clothiers has been the premier retailer in North Texas for around a hundred years. Not only do they offer one-of-a-kind apparel from top brands, but they also give great attention to every one of their clients. They are delighted...
Website: jtclothiers.com |Brands like JT
Popularity 1.0/10
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17
Crosshatch
Crosshatch aims to give men a selection of necessities that will stand the test. Whether you're searching for a traditional white tee or a dramatic black tee, their adaptable and one-of-a-kind clothes will bring elegance to any outfit. Its designs...
Website: crosshatchclothing.com |Brands like Crosshatch
Popularity 0.9/10
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18
Merrell
Merrell is a leading hiking apparel company that makes clothing and footwear for people who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. They started by making hiking shoes and later expanded and added additional items to their catalog. The brand uses...
Website: merrell.com |Brands like Merrell
Popularity 0.9/10
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19
Topo
Topo Athletic has been in the running industry for over 16 years. They are committed to creating shoes that allow you to walk organically and comfortably. They're also dedicated to keeping them inexpensive so that more people can benefit from...
Website: topoathletic.com |Brands like Topo
Popularity 0.9/10
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20
Karrimor
Karrimor is meant for the people who love the great outdoors. It is not advised to go on an adventure without equipment. If you are someone who is an active person who likes to live in the outside world, then...
Website: karrimor.com |Brands like Karrimor
Popularity 0.9/10
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21
Classic Canvas
Safety bags are necessary for those actively working in the industrial sector. These bags are mainly used by those involved in the physical works revolving in that particular industry. That is why Classic Canvas took it on themselves to produce...
Website: cccliftbags.com |Brands like Classic Canvas
Popularity 0.8/10
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22
361? Degrees
361 Degrees is not the temperature but a company. They are a sportswear brand, to be more specific. A healthy and active lifestyle can be good for the body, but it does need unique clothes to get by. 361 Degrees...
Website: 361usa.com |Brands like 361? Degrees
Popularity 0.8/10
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23
Paperplanes
If you want cheap and good quality shoes, then shop from Paperplanes. Paperplanes has an extensive range of shoes for all the purposes like running, trekking, casual etc. It also has different types of shoes like sneakers, boots, sandals and...
Website: paperplaneshoes.com |Brands like Paperplanes
Popularity 0.8/10
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24
NEWTON
Newton offers comfortable and durable sportswear for men and women. The company specializes in running shoes and provides a better form to every athlete. The company offers bright colors to set every athlete apart and provides an option to find...
Website: newtonrunning.com |Brands like NEWTON
Popularity 0.7/10
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25
Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger is a Japanese clothing and accessories brand founded in 1949. The brand has a wide variety of apparel, including sportswear, footwear, and accessories like gym bags, caps, and socks for men, women, and kids. Their collection is inspired...
Website: onitsukatiger.com |Brands like Onitsuka Tiger
Popularity 0.7/10
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26
Avia
Avia is the most recent advancement in running and walking shoes. With so many styles, colors, and designs to select from, you'll be able to find a pair for everyone in your family, whether they're into jogging or want a...
Website: avia.com |Brands like Avia
Popularity 0.7/10
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27
Diadora
Diadora has created a world of fashion and comfort on its website. You can find active clothes and footwear categorized into neat little tabs there. People who tend to live an active lifestyle and are always on the move need...
Website: diadora.com |Brands like Diadora
Popularity 0.7/10
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28
Vibram
Vibram has been a market leader for many years. Its zeal for research and invention and its one-of-a-kind production technique has resulted in various items ranging from mountain climbing shoes to casual footwear and technical hiking boots to casual sandals....
Website: us.vibram.com |Brands like Vibram
Popularity 0.7/10
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29
Whites
The White's Boots history has been dedicated to the unwavering spirit of the American worker, whose efforts have enabled the legend of their boots to spread from the Pacific Northwest to the rest of the world. Their shoes are handmade...
Website: whitesboots.com |Brands like Whites
Popularity 0.7/10
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30
& Other Stories
& Other Stories might sound like a weird name for a clothing brand, but that does not change the fact that the company has been manufacturing some of the best clothes people have ever seen. They believe in telling fashion...
Website: stories.com |Brands like & Other Stories
Popularity 0.6/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike | nike.com | – | – | – | – |
| adidas | adidas.com | – | – | – | – |
| ASICS | asics.com | /ASICS | asics | @ASICSamerica | – |
| New Balance | newbalance.com | – | – | – | – |
| Reebok | reebok.com | /ReebokUS | reebok | @reebok | – |
| Mizuno | mizunousa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Saucony | saucony.com | /sauconyindia | sauconyindia | @sauconyindia | – |
| Hoka One One | hokaoneone.com | – | – | – | – |
| Salomon | salomon.com | /Salomon | salomon | @salomonsports | officialsalomon |
| Under armour | underarmour.com | /UnderArmour | underarmour | @UnderArmour | underarmour |
Running Shoes Buying Guide
Choosing the right running shoes can make all the difference in your running experience. Proper running shoes provide comfort, support, and protection from injuries. However, with so many options available in the market, finding the right running shoes can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will help you understand the important factors that you should consider when buying running shoes.
Consider the Type of Running You Do
The type of running you do is an important consideration when buying running shoes. Different types of running shoes are designed for different types of running. Understand what type of running you do and choose the right type of running shoes to suit your needs.
- Road running shoes: Designed for running on hard, even surfaces like roads, tracks, and pavements. These shoes provide a good balance of cushioning and lightweight support.
- Trail running shoes: Designed for running on uneven, natural surfaces like trails, rocks, and grass. These shoes provide better traction, durable protection, and support for the lateral movement.
- Minimalist running shoes: Designed for runners who prefer a minimalistic style of running with less cushioning and support. These shoes are lightweight and flexible, allowing your feet to move naturally. However, they are not recommended for beginners or runners with foot injuries.
- Stability running shoes: Designed for runners with overpronation, a condition where the foot rolls too far inward with each step. These shoes provide firm support for the arch and feet, reducing the risk of injuries.
- Cushioned running shoes: Designed for runners who need more cushioning and shock absorption. These shoes are ideal for runners with high arches or those who experience discomfort in their feet or joints.
Consider Your Foot Type
Your foot type is another important consideration when choosing running shoes. Understanding your foot type will help you choose the right shoes that provide the necessary support and protection for your feet. The three main types of foot shapes are:
- Flat feet: Flat feet have little to no arches, and they put more pressure on the inside of the foot. Runners with flat feet need shoes that provide good support for their arches and feet.
- High arches: High arches have a more pronounced arch, which can put extra pressure on the heels and balls of the feet. Runners with high arches need shoes that provide good cushioning and support for their feet.
- Neutral feet: Neutral feet have a normal arch height, and they distribute weight evenly across the foot. Runners with neutral feet can wear a wider variety of running shoes.
Consider the Fit
The fit of your running shoes is critical for your comfort and performance. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, blisters, and even injuries. A properly fitting shoe should feel snug but not tight, with enough room for your toes to wiggle. Here are some tips to ensure a good fit:
- Measure your feet: Your shoe size may change over time, measure your feet regularly to ensure you get the right size.
- Try on shoes at the end of the day: Your feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it's best to try on shoes when your feet are at their largest.
- Bring your socks: Always try on shoes with the socks you intend to wear while running.
- Take them for a test run: Walk or jog around the store to see how the shoes feel. You should feel comfortable and stable.
- Ensure proper room: There should be enough room for your toes to wiggle, and your feet should not feel cramped or squished.
- Account for any orthotics or inserts: If you require orthotics or inserts, ensure that there is enough space for them inside the shoes.
- The shoe should support your feet: Your shoes should provide ample support, and you should feel comfortable with the level of cushioning inside the shoes.
Consider the Sole and Traction
The sole and traction of your running shoes can affect your performance and safety while running. Different types of soles provide different levels of grip, cushioning, and durability. Choose the right type of sole based on the type of running you do and the surface you run on.
- The outsole: The outsole provides traction and durability. Look for shoes with outsoles that provide good traction on your running surfaces.
- The midsole: The midsole provides cushioning and support for your feet. Look for shoes with midsoles that offer good shock absorption while running.
- The insole: The insole is the cushioning layer inside the shoe. Look for shoes with insoles that provide good support and comfort for your feet.
Consider Breathability and Weight
The breathability and weight of your shoes can affect your comfort and performance. Running shoes should provide good ventilation to prevent your feet from getting too hot and sweaty. Additionally, the weight of your shoes can affect your speed and performance. Choose lightweight shoes if you prioritize speed or heavier shoes if you prioritize support and durability.
- Breathability: Look for shoes with breathable mesh or perforations to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Weight: Look for shoes that are lightweight and provide ample support and cushioning. The weight of your shoes can affect your speed and performance, so choose a pair that feels comfortable to wear and offers the right balance for your needs.
Test Your Shoes Before Your Run
Once you have found your ideal pair of running shoes, it's important to test them before your run. Wear them around the house, go for a short run, and see how they feel. If they don't feel right, it may be time to exchange them for a pair that better suits your needs.
Conclusion
Running shoes are a vital part of any runner's gear. Choosing the right pair of shoes can help you feel more comfortable and confident while running. Consider the type of running you do, your foot type, the fit, sole and traction, breathability, and weight when buying running shoes. Always take the time to try on and test your shoes before your run, ensuring that you have the right pair for your individual needs.
