The Best Running Shoes: The Ultimate 2020 Ranking

The Brooks Cascadia 15 is a versatile trail shoe prized by ultra-trail star Scott Jurek. This new model capitalises on the previous version that brought a breath of fresh air to the Cascadia collection. We find a platform as comfortable and versatile as ever equipped with the TrailTack sole and its multidirectional studs. The grip is impeccable on all types of terrains. The main change resides in the upper: there is a new mesh more tightly woven than before, reminiscent of the Caldera 4. This provides better protection even if the ventilation is slightly affected. The upper provides excellent foot lockdown while still being loose enough to be comfortable, especially for the toes. Regarding the cushioning, we find a moderately thick sole with a 24 mm full stack-height under the heel and an 8 mm drop. The midsole offers a good ground feeling, slightly firm, while effectively absorbing shocks. However, testers note that it lacks a bit of bounce and responsiveness to be really fun for speed workouts. In other words, comfort is there, but a little more bounce would be much appreciated. Nevertheless, the shoe has the advantage of being stable. It incorporates a system of pivot points (Pivot Posts) that provides good support, especially downhill. In summary, the Brooks Cascadia 15 is a very good trail shoe that combines comfort, protection, grip and durability but that misses a snappier bounce.

The New Balance FuelCell 890 v8 is a lightweight running shoe made for speed. This new version uses New Balance's latest cushioning technology: FuelCell. It replaces Revlite but testers are mixed on the result. Indeed, the cushioning is very firm. According to them, it's not stiff but lacks some spring to truly feel good. This impression fades during fast sessions such as tempo or Fartlek but, at slower speeds, the lack of responsiveness is much more obvious according to the runners who tested the shoe. For the rest, the 890 v8's platform is wide and stable, which proves comfortable. As for the upper, the testers appreciated the precise and comfortable (true to size) fit of the shoe. Also, the gusseted tongue is ingenious and the toe box is spacious without hindering the fit. However, it should be noted that several runners noticed signs of early wear in the rubber under the forefoot. Finally, the shoe has gained weight with nearly 30 grams since the last model. This is a pity even if it remains light compared to the competition with only 238 grams on the scale for men and 204 for women. In summary, the New Balance FuelCell 890 v8 is a good light running shoe but the lack of responsiveness of its cushioning and the fragility of its sole disappoint.