The Best Running Shoes: The Ultimate 2020 Ranking

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!

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.

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!

The Hoka Rincon 2 is back after a first unanimously acclaimed version that took the world of running by surprise with its ultra-light and comfortably cushioned profile. Without further ado, let's dive right in: the Rincon 2 is the same shoe with a few small changes. The weight remains about the same but the sole is a little thinner with 29 mm under the heel for men and 26 mm for women. The drop is still 5 mm. Cushioning is still very comfortable with a good balance of softness and firmness. Runners who have tested the shoe agree that it is not as responsive as some of its competitors, especially those with carbon plates. However, the lightweight profile compensates for its absence to some extent. In other words, the shoe is naturally springy overall. The upper is the part that has evolved the most, but without radical change. The mesh is thicker and slightly tighter than before, which gives a better upper fit. If you have wider feet, don't worry: the Rincon 2 remains accommodating, especially around the toes. The outsole is the only part that draws criticism from testers. Indeed, the Rincon 2 has little rubber to protect the sole, which is made of exposed EVA foam. This configuration is not ideal in terms of durability as it offers little protection against abrasion. This is a recurring criticism from testers who have all noticed that the sole wore out quickly after only a few runs. The Hoka Rincon 2 is affordable but we would still like it to be more robust to be able to last at least 500 km/300 mi. Overall, the Hoka Rincon 2 is a very good, light, and comfortable road running shoe with generous cushioning and a great upper. The only real drawback is the fragility of the sole but this remains acceptable considering the great qualities of the shoe.

The Peregrine reigns over Saucony's trail range alongside the Xodus. It's a peppy shoe with fantastic versatility that continues to impress despite its persistent bulky weight.

The outsole and its lugs are almost identical to those of the P10—and still just as effective! They offer impeccable grip on the most technical surfaces. It's even possible to add ice screws if needed. Besides, there's the ST (Soft Terrain) version for soft surfaces such as mud. It comes with 6.5 mm lugs compared to 5 mm for the standard and GTX versions.

The stack height is higher than before, with 27 mm under the heel and 23 mm under the forefoot. The foam used is still PWRRUN with a similar medium density, slightly firm, cushioning. The midsole absorbs shocks well while still allowing some ground feel. This configuration is beneficial on technical terrain as it provides good stability while ensuring a smooth run.

Finally, like the rest of the shoe, the upper shows no radical change but rather small touches here and there, such as a thicker tongue and a better overlay system. It gives a secure lockdown and adequate ventilation with plenty of toe room—the forefoot part is not as roomy as an Altra, but it will fit most runners.

In summary, the Saucony Peregrine 11 continues to dominate the trail category with a powerful configuration for a wide range of terrains and situations thanks to its outstanding foot lockdown, protection, and grip. The slightly firm cushioning may not appeal to you if you like plush padding, but it's a matter of preference. This model's real weak point (as with its predecessors) is its weight, with 10.9 oz/310 g for men and 9.5 oz/270 g for women. Let's hope Saucony can hear us on that one!

The Altra Olympus 4 is a trail shoe with a high-stack sole (33 mm), zero drop (so no offset between heel and toes), and a wide platform. This new version is more refined, however, which gives the shoe a more streamlined and less massive design. However, it retains the qualities that have made it so successful. Its high-stack cushioning ensures comfortable shock absorption throughout the run. Also, the running sensations are responsive with an enjoyable bounce. Of course, with its relatively heavy weight (318 g for men, 289 g for women), this is not a model made for speed and daring descents. The Olympus is a trail running cruiser that's all about comfort. It shows in the upper with a mesh that now has an open texture for better ventilation. The result is a pleasant and rather ample lockdown (be careful if you have narrow feet). The toe box is spacious as on all Altra models. Finally, the grip is very good with a Vibram MegaGrip rubber sole that features moderate lugs. The configuration is sturdy and can take a beating according to trailers who tested the shoe. Thus, the Olympus 4 is a comfortable option for medium difficulty trails (its ample foot lockdown and not-so-aggressive lugs don't make it the best choice for the most technical surfaces). A very good shoe for trailers looking for maximum comfort for their long trail runs.

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.

The Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 6 is a lightweight trail shoe that offers a good balance between ground feeling and protection. Let's say it right away: this new version brings few fundamental changes after the thorough redesign of the previous model. If you liked the Kiger 5, you will not be disappointed by the K6. It features a dynamic and versatile cushioning that's ideal for tempo-style speed sessions on trails. The shoe offers good shock absorption without isolating the foot from the ground. With a stack height of 24 mm under the heel, cushioning is therefore moderate. However, it should be noted that some runners have found the heel particularly rigid which can be disconcerting given the flexibility of the forefoot. Then, traction is always very good on trails of medium technical difficulty. The moderately deep lugs give a good grip, especially in the mud. The non-slip rubber triangle in the middle of the outsole divides runners: some find it effective while others would prefer lugs as on the rest of the sole. Finally, the main change is in the upper. The support is now more precise without being strict. In addition, the toe box is also more spacious for more comfort. In summary, the Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 6 is a very good trail shoe that still offers a great ride for daily training. PROS

The Saucony Kinvara is back with a much-anticipated new model—photos of its new look had leaked over the summer, sparking much speculation about its new configuration. Its new, lighter design with bright, flashy colors gives it a modern yet retro '90s charm. But is this enough to rival Saucony's new Endorphin series that received wide acclaimed in 2020?

First of all, the Saucony Kinvara 12 remains true to itself and focuses on the strengths that have made the range so successful: a simple, light, and well-cushioned configuration. With only 219 grams on the scale, the Kinvara has never been so light! It even rivals the latest carbon-fiber plate racers. However, as we will see, it's a shoe with a "traditional" profile geared for daily training.

The upper is the big strength of the new model. The engineered mesh with a few discreet overlays offers a perfect lockdown and is easy to forget. Testers use three words to describe it: simple, effective, and soft. There's not a single thing amiss. Even the laces and tongue were a hit with everyone. Also, the upper is roomy enough for athletes with wider feet.

The midsole exhibits the same simplicity but is a bit disappointing. Here, simplicity rhymes with dullness according to several runners: the ride is good but not very exciting. Others are more indulgent and instead note a flexible platform with a good ground natural feeling while providing the cushioning needed to absorb shocks. However, if there's one point on which reviews agree, it's the firmness of the sole. So be warned: despite the more than generous stack height (28 mm under the heel), the K12 is firmer than its predecessors.

Finally, the outsole is very similar to that of the K11, with mainly exposed foam and a few strategically positioned rubber pieces to protect the shoe from wear and tear. The configuration is effective: it provides a good grip, even in wet conditions, and is durable for the kind of mileage you would expect from a trainer.

In summary, the Saucony Kinvara 12 is a very decent running shoe despite some issues. On the one hand, it has a very light build (especially for the stack height) and an outstanding upper, but on the other hand, the cushioning has nothing special. If anything, it's rather firm, especially for long workouts. We recommend it for runners who are after a stable well-structured cushioning that delivers a comfortable, yet firm ground feel.

The Saucony Guide is the flagship model of Saucony's stability range alongside the Hurricane. This new version 14 comes with a modern and sleek design.

The heel stack height is 33 mm, while the forefoot stack height is 25 mm (8 mm drop). The midsole uses the PWRRUN foam reputed for its comfort. On the Guide 14, testers note that it provides moderately firm, comfortable, and smooth cushioning that lends itself well to slow, moderate paces. At 10.5 oz/298 g (M) and 9.3 oz/264 g (F), the weight is a bit high for a traditional trainer but acceptable for a stability shoe. Indeed, this type of shoe is equipped with additional features to guide the foot movement, making them heavier. In this regard, the Guide 14 doesn't do too badly with its TPU Guidance Frame. The correction is moderate, according to the runners. Therefore, it may also be suitable for people who have a "normal" gait but prefer a stable model with more support. For this purpose, the platform is wide for better balance. The Guide 14 is a swift model overall, although, of course, it's better suited for daily training than speed.

Then, the upper is comfortable and provides a precise foot lockdown. The only negative point mentioned by testers is its thickness, limiting ventilation, and pliability without being a significant problem. Finally, the outsole uses a good amount of rubber for optimal wear resistance.

In summary, the Saucony Guide 14 is a very good option for runners with overpronation looking for a stable and comfortable model with a touch of bounce. A reference model in its category.

The Saucony Triumph 18 is the ultimate everyday trainer with comfortable cushioning and an upper that fits most runners. With a 33 mm stack height under the heel (25 mm under the forefoot), the Triumph 18 is one of Saucony's most cushioned shoes. It now features PWRRUN+ foam, which gives a soft cushioning that comfortably absorbs shocks without being too soft. The shoe provides good stability, so the high-stack cushioning does not reduce balance while running. Overall, the runners found the cushioning lively but not bouncy by any means. Unfortunately, this reduces the versatility of the shoe: it's pleasant during daily training at low or medium speed but not for speed workouts (e.g., tempo, interval). However, on the plus side, testers note that this new model has the advantage of having a smaller heel than previously for better stability and offers smoother transitions. Then, the upper is still excellent with a comfortable and effective foot lockdown. The engineered mesh is relatively thick while remaining breathable. However, given the extra weight of this new version (over 300 g/11 oz) and the natural stability of its platform, testers wondered if such a thick and elaborate mesh was essential. Finally, there is the new XT-900 (carbon) rubber on the outsole, which provides a good grip and protects the shoe from wear and tear. To summarize, the Saucony Triumph 18 is a very good running shoe that will delight runners looking for a well-cushioned shoe for regular training and long runs. However, if you want a snappy shoe to run fast, then its heavyweight and lack of springe may not be ideal.

Summer is around the corner, and with it, the new version of this Nike classic: the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37. This new model has undergone some significant changes, including a new upper and cushioning. React foam is now under the heel and midfoot, while a thicker and wider Zoom Air unit equips the forefoot. The latter is noticeable under the forefoot and can improve the shoe's bounce, especially when the foot pushes the ground to propel the body. It's important to note that Zoom Air cushioning is softer on the women's version than on the men's model. According to studies carried out by the brand, women prefer softer cushioning than men. Overall, this new configuration with React foam, known for its flexibility, gives a softer cushioning than on the P36 while remaining relatively firm overall. The shoe divides testers between those who find the cushioning perfectly adequate and those who blame it for lack of responsiveness to really have fun. The thickness of the sole remains unchanged, with 28 mm under the heel and 18 mm under the forefoot (10 mm drop). The new translucent engineered mesh is breathable and offers precise socklike foot lockdown: neither too loose nor too tight. Also, its sleek design without the Flywire cables (replaced by a band) is quite stylish. Runners agree that the upper is near perfect and marks a clear improvement over the previous model. The outsole provides good traction in urban areas and has a thick rubber layer to last a long time. Finally, it's interesting to note that the shoe is, unfortunately, slightly heavier than before, with 20 grams more. All in all, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 stays the course despite significant changes and continues to establish itself as a comfortable and versatile shoe suitable for virtually every runner. Only its cushioning has disappointed some runners, but it's a matter of preference, and we invite you to try it for yourself.