The Best Running Shoes: The Ultimate 2020 Ranking

What happens when you take an already very good shoe that won the accolades of the trail community in 2018 and make it a little better? You get an exceptional model that's close to perfection. Nothing less! Indeed, the Hoka Torrent 2 confirms its reputation as an ultra-versatile, comfortable and lightweight shoe. While the first model had been very well received, some criticized its upper as being too harsh and not safe enough to tackle very technical surfaces, especially downhill. This second version addresses this feedback with an improved upper that translates into a more classic mesh. Paradoxically, it is more flexible while offering a more precise foot lockdown. According to the testers, the result feels very secure without being too tight (the shoe is also suitable for trailers with wider feet). Then, regarding the cushioning, we find the PROFLY double density foam which gives comfortable but fairly firm padding. The absence of a protective plate combined with the moderate cushioning provides excellent ground feeling. This will appeal to athletes who like a good natural ride on the trails. Overall, the Torrent 2 offers a good compromise between shock absorption, protection and ground feel. Thus, trailers who tested the shoe found it very comfortable, even after several hours of running, despite the relative thinness of the sole. Finally, the traction is always impeccable whatever the terrain or the type of elevation. The multidirectional studs are indeed more numerous and slightly more aggressive, which makes it easy to tackle the most technical trails, whether soft mud or slippery rocks. In short, the Hoka Torrent 2 is an excellent trail shoe (maybe even the best of the year!) that proves to be effective and comfortable in all circumstances. A reference shoe not to be missed!

The New Balance 1080 v10 is a comfortable and versatile road shoe with generous cushioning. Indeed, it has a 29 mm thick sole under the heel with an 8 mm drop. It features the Fresh Foam technology that is used in many New Balance models. On this particular model, the foam provides a comfortable and soft cushioning while offering a good energy return. In comparison, the cushioning is softer than on the Beacon v2, for example. This configuration provides a comfortable running feel to have fun over long distances. Nevertheless, this model retains the excellent polyvalence for which it is renowned and adapts very well to shorter distances and speed training. The upper area features the most changes with a new flame design for the heel to better support the foot. In addition, the new upper now uses knit instead of mesh. This provides optimal ventilation and a slightly softer fit. Another important point is that you can comfortably splay your toes thanks to the large toe box. All in all, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v10 is a very good surprise with some important changes that considerably improve comfort. An excellent, comfortable and versatile road running shoe not to be missed!

The Saucony Ride 13 is a versatile road shoe in the same class as the Nike Pegasus. This new version shows major changes (as the rest of the Saucony range in 2020). Thus, we find a new mesh, more traditional, which replaces ISOFIT. The result is impressive according to the testers who tried the shoe. The foot lockdown is very precise in the middle but wider around the toes to leave them enough room. However, note that the upper is a little thick which can be a problem in very hot weather. Then, in terms of cushioning, the sole is thicker with 32 mm under the heel and 24 mm under the forefoot. The PWRRUN technology that combines EVA foam and TPU provides a fairly firm yet snappy cushioning that is suitable for tempo and fartlek sessions. Besides, its flexible and well-thought-out configuration gives the impression of being lighter than its actual weight (288g for men, 244g for women). Also, the blown rubber under the forefoot contributes to the shoe's good rebound while the firm rubber under the heel protects it from wear and tear. As you can see, this model shines with its versatility and comfort. The testers did not note any major negative points. In short, the Saucony Ride 13 is a great running shoe for runners looking for a model that is perfectly suited to all types of training and distances. Comfort 9.5 Service life 9.5 Value for money 9.5 Design 9 FOR Great comfort Upper with impeccable support Comfortable cushioning and springy bounce at the same time Solid shoe Good versatility AGAINST Slightly high weight Thick upper a little warm for summer

The Salomon Sense Ride 4 is a popular trail running shoe reputed for its comfort and efficiency. This new version features a lighter configuration with a new upper.

The Sense Ride has shined since its debut with comfortable cushioning that disperses shocks on various trail running surfaces. The ride is enjoyable over longer distances. According to testers, version 3 was less springy and more protective, and it looks like 4 continues that trend. It's possible to go fast, but let's say that it may not be as compelling as other lighter shoes in this area.

The new, more straightforward, sleeker (and lighter) upper still provides a precise foot lockdown with decent midfoot and forefoot space. The combination of Sensifit (overlays) and Endofit (internal bootie) ticks all the boxes. Finally, Quicklace has been a core feature of Salomon for years and still does a great job at allowing a worry-free adjustment of the laces.

The grip is as impeccable as the rest. The Contagrip rubber outsole and its medium-depth lugs excel on all different types of surfaces. Trail runners have found no shortcomings in this area: whether you're running on soft dirt, rocks, or snow, the SR4 performs!

As you can see, the Salomon Sense Ride 4 sets the bar high by combining comfort, protection, and grip—all this while shedding significant weight. The only slightly negative point is the firm ride, but that's a matter of preference and doesn't affect the excellent shock absorption.

After the elite shoes for competition, the Nike ZoomX range tackles daily training with the Invincible Run. It's a model with maximal cushioning (37 mm sole under the heel, 28 mm under the forefoot) made for comfort and determined to go head to head with Hoka, who dominates the category. It seems that Nike had this model in the making for a few years already, but the wait was well worth it. Indeed, the Invincible Run already appears as one of the most exciting running shoes of the year.

Let's not prolong the suspense: the testers were blown away by the cushioning - nothing less! The midsole is both soft and bouncy with excellent shock absorption and protection. In general, you get bounce or softness, but it's rare to have both in one shoe. With the Invincible Run, it seems that with ZoomX, Nike has found the magic formula to offer a snappy and plush ride for daily training. However, there's a small caveat: the midsole of the Invincible consists only of foam. Therefore, there's no Air unit or carbon plate to give structure and improve stability. To compensate, Nike has considerably increased the width of the shoe, especially at the heel. The result is mixed, with some testers noting a slight instability at times.

The upper is Flyknit but looks more like a classic mesh than Nike's famous breathable and stretchy knit. On this model, it's dense and rather strict to ensure a more precise foot lockdown. It's consistent with the wide platform for improved stability. The foothold is excellent according to the runners and, the cherry on top, the toe box is ample enough to accommodate wider feet. The only weak point noted is the thick ankle collar, which locks-in the heel but can potentially irritate with friction.

Finally, the outsole is all-rubber with very thin lugs. Traction is flawless, and durability seems to be there at first glance—time will tell.

All in all, the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run delivers on its promises. It's a relatively lightweight trainer (278 g/9.8 oz for men, 245 g/8.6 oz for women) with soft, maximal, and responsive cushioning that has left more than one runner amazed by the ride it offers. The only downsides are the slight lack of stability and the thick collar, but these are not significant problems. The price is another story: $180 is a hefty sum for a model intended primarily for daily training and recovery.

Nike expands its NEXT% collection with a new model to complement the Alphafly: the Nike Air Zoom Tempo NEXT% Flyknit.

What immediately grabs the attention is its massive sole (46 mm stack under the heel!) with a curved shape that looks like an arch. Another important point is its nylon plate. It improves propulsion by ensuring a smooth transition while running. The big difference compared to a carbon plate (like the one on the Alphafly) is its firmness: carbon is lighter but firmer than nylon. Thus, the blade on the Tempo is softer, which makes it less noticeable.

In terms of running sensation, runners found the cushioning of the shoe very comfortable while being rather firm underfoot. This configuration makes the platform relatively stable despite the impressive stack height. As a result, the shoe is more stable than other models equipped with ZoomX foam. According to them, this is the work of the React foam under the heel. They also found the ride pleasant and responsive even at a slow pace, which is not always the case with propulsion plate running shoes as they are primarily intended for racing and fast speeds. Nike seems to position the Tempo as a fast and versatile trainer with its medium weight (252 g) and nylon blade, and the Alphafly as a competition shoe with its carbon plate and featherweight.

Moving on to the upper, Flyknit is quite breathable despite its somewhat "plastic" appearance. It is not very stretchy for a more precise foot lockdown without reducing comfort. The shoe remains spacious overall, especially in the toe area. However, some runners have found it too narrow in the midfoot, which may not be suitable for everyone.

Overall, the Nike Air Zoom Tempo NEXT% Flyknit is a very good, comfortable, and versatile trainer with high-stack yet firm cushioning and a nylon blade.

The Salomon shoe specially designed for ultra trail running is back. The S/Lab Ultra 3 is a versatile shoe favored by French star François d'Haene, a three-time UTMB winner. So what is this new version worth? First of all, the configuration remains almost identical in terms of weight and stack height. The grip is still excellent with the Contagrip rubber and its moderately aggressive lugs. The Ultra 3 is comfortable on most terrains, although testers note that deeper lugs would be welcome on steep and muddy routes. Also, as with previous versions, the configuration is robust and wear-resistant. In terms of cushioning, the stack height is moderate, with 26 mm under the heel and 18 mm under the forefoot. Trailers characterize the cushioning as "fairly firm" while offering good flexibility and shock absorption, which makes the ride enjoyable even over long distances. They also describe the feel of the run as springy, with smooth transitions throughout the run, even at low speeds. Then, the upper is softer with a streamlined, seamless design that gets rid of the "wings" of the previous model. The foot lockdown is great, resulting in a stable and safe run. Also, the upper is slightly more spacious (especially in the toe area), and its flexibility ensures good freedom of movement for the foot. The only negative point of the upper would be its lack of ventilation. Besides, despite all its great qualities, the shoe is on the expensive side with a base price of $180. In summary, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is a very good trail shoe that is comfortable in all conditions and offers great comfort over long distances.

Brooks has delivered dozens of times over the years with running shoes that perform. However, their latest model—the Adrenaline GTS 21—might take the cake for bestselling stability trainer. Touted for its smooth ride and adaptable support, the brand has done it again with a reliable, no-frills shoe geared for daily runs.

Perhaps the most notable feature of the Adrenaline is its stellar midsole. Its DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA technologies provide the best of both worlds with the perfect balance of comfort and security. The cushioning makes it a great shoe for longer rides and daily use. The upper is breathable and supportive with an updated engineered mesh. Brooks has also continued implementing GuideRails support technology on their stack, extending it to the Adrenaline GTS. It's supposed to ensure that a runner's feet and knees remain aligned, providing as much security as possible. While we generally don't advocate for support shoes in the absence of probing scientific proof, some runners swear by it. Hence, it's definitely an option to consider if you're having difficulty finding comfortable shoes. The outsole's segmented crash pad is sturdy and lends itself to good traction so that runners can enjoy a secure grip on the road.

There's no doubt that the Adrenaline GTS is more than capable of performing as a stability shoe. In fact, it's one of the strongest stability options on the market. That said, runners shouldn't expect a noticeable bounce or lively spring with each stride. Instead, this Brooks model focuses on providing a smooth ride that's durable and reliable for your daily run. It's not recommended for sprints or faster workouts. Some users also suggested that a lower heel drop-off would be preferable.

In summation, the Adrenaline GTS does everything a good, long-distance stability trainer should. In addition to offering steady support, it's great for marathons and recovery days alike. Available at an average price for its caliber, it may just be the shoe for you!

2020 was a special year for Saucony—besides the worldwide circumstances we all know, obviously—with the great success of its Endorphin range. Far from being eclipsed, the Saucony Ride has consolidated its status as the ultimate daily trainer with practical and classic cushioning. Version 14 continues this trend with few changes.

The Saucony Ride 14 is a comfortable and versatile shoe with a high stack cushioning: 32 mm under the forefoot and 24 mm under the forefoot. However, the platform is quite firm, according to the testers. Thus, shock absorption is good, but the ride is somewhat rigid. In terms of cushioning, as on the previous model, some runners noted a slight bounce, while others found the ride a bit dull. Let's note that the R14 still uses PWRRUN foam instead of the newer PWRRUN PB, which has the reputation of packing a punch in the energy return department. In other words, what was suitable in 2020 seems a bit dated in 2021.

The upper is very comfortable and offers an ideal lockdown with the right amount of flexibility and support. Also, the upper is much more breathable than before, thanks to a more open mesh design. Not only it allows air to circulate better, but it also makes the upper more flexible. The only slightly negative point is the tongue, which some testers deemed too thick.

Finally, the outsole does not skimp on rubber to ensure effective traction and make the shoe more robust. The other advantage of this configuration is that the shoe is quieter—pedestrians will no longer turn around when they hear you coming (beware: this stealth mode can scare people at night!).

In summary, the Saucony Ride 14 remains an excellent choice for daily training, thanks to its comfort and versatility. The firm cushioning may not be to everyone's liking, but overall it's effective. We only hope that the next iteration will benefit from a more responsive foam!

With its fun and unique pops of color, optimal padding, and modern design, the Saucony Endorphin Shift is the third model in the Endorphin line. Of the three, It's the 'every day/recovery' shoe, a workhorse to comfortably run for long distances. With a stack height 38 mm under the heel and 34 mm under the forefoot, the Shift features a thoroughly-padded midsole designed with PWWRUN foam. Runners described it as 'bouncy' and 'rolling through every stride', which is a clear plus for running longer distances. The upper shoe is described as "stellar" and comparable to the other two Endorphin shoes. It's also highly-praised for its inviting and vibrant aesthetic. Finally, the outsole is particularly notable for its rubber grip that provides decent traction on roads. With its rubber grip, the shoe does perform well on off-road terrains as well, such as sand, gravel... However, one runner noted that the shoe began to slip a bit on wet terrain but consistently does well on a variety of dry landscapes. Also, while the Shift received many good reviews from satisfied runners, a few noted that the toe box of the shoe proved to be a bit too narrow/restrictive to fit a variety of feet. Additionally, some runners remarked that the shoe ran on the heavier side, which took away from its 'bouncy' engineering. Indeed, with 292 g/10.3 oz for men and 264 g/9.3 oz for women, the Shift is much heavier than its racing counterpart, the Endorphin Pro, and its 221 g/7.8 oz. This difference can be explained by the price but also by the vocation of each shoe. Saucony wants us to buy the three models of the collection and alternate according to our training and races. ln this regard, the Endorphin Shift is an interesting trainer option to run comfortably for a long time. To summarize, the Saucony Endorphin Shift is a very good low drop 'everyday trainer' that's especially great for recovery runs with its comfortable and generous cushioning.

Nike just released the Terra Kiger 7, and longtime fans are crying foul: this seventh version, much more cushioned, has little in common with the first models, they claim. So what's the verdict?

First, the new Terra Kiger is bulkier with a thicker sole and a roomier upper. Sadly, the weight has also gone up. The stack increased by 3 mm and is now 30 mm under the heel. In other words, after flirting with minimalism in its early days, the Terra Kiger has decided to supercharge its cushioning to go the distance. This new configuration has the advantage of offering comfortable cushioning in all circumstances. Also, the segmented rock plate provides a high level of protection for added safety. Trail runners note that the TK7 delivers comfortable cushioning while keeping its signature ground feel despite the higher stack. However, they didn't find the ride exceptionally responsive, even with the Zoom Air unit now located under the forefoot for a more effective toe-off.

Next, the outsole features more rubber and larger lugs for a more effective grip. Trailers criticized the non-slip diamond-shaped zone without lugs in previous models for its lack of effectiveness, and Nike has finally addressed the problem. Another improvement is that the rubber under the heel is less rigid, giving greater flexibility for a more stable grip.

Finally, the upper is roomier without sacrificing foot lockdown. The mesh/synthetic configuration with the Dynamic Fit system is secure even on difficult downhill paths.

In summary, the Terra Kiger series takes a new direction with this version 7. More cushioning, more protection, better grip: while some may regret the early lightweight days of the KT, many will be glad to take it for a spin on long and technical terrains.

Crafted specifically for taking on tough mountain trails, the Merrell MTL Skyfire is the perfect shoe for higher elevations and shorter running stints on uphill terrains. Its lightweight design (9 oz./242 g) coupled with its great traction and breathable fabric makes the MTL Skyfire an extremely prudent choice for off-trail runners. Its stack dimensions are 23.5mm/17.5mm, with a drop of 6mm and lugs of 5 mm, to provide the best possible running conditions on rocky slopes. Runners who have tried the MTL Skyfire remarked that the sneaker was bouncy, comfortable, and provided a smooth running experience, though there is some discrepancy regarding adequate cushioning, which tends to be a stronger preference for female runners than male runners, according to recent studies. Runners have also stated that the MTL Skyfire is highly breathable, but that this design comes with the pitfall of absorbing a significant amount of moisture straight through to the foot on wet trails, or in rainy weather. MTL Skyfire users have also commented on the narrowness of the sneaker design, which is likely intentional to provide a snug fit for added security on rocky trails. This may make the shoe a great option for runners with narrow to medium feet but may prove too tight for runners with wider feet. For best results, runners who tried the MTL Skyfire recommend tying the laces as tightly as possible for added heel and ankle protection, though this may be unsustainable and prove to be too uncomfortable for longer runs. Note that while the Merrell MTL Skyfire is ideal for shorter running sessions, cross- country runners will likely do better with the sneaker's companion, the Long Sky. Runners were also a big fan of the Merrell MTL Skyfire's reasonable price of only $100, which is relatively budget-friendly compared with other sneaker brands of the same high caliber. Overall, the Merrell MTL Skyfire is a very good running shoe for off-trail, short-distance runners looking for a snug fit, lightweight design, above-average traction, and a great overall value! Longer-distance runners, or those who prefer a bit of extra cushioning, will do well to consider the brand's Long Sky option as an alternative.