The Best Road Running Shoes of 2021

The Nike Revolution 5 is an entry-level road shoe with a stylish design. It offers a simple and functional configuration with a basic sole using rubber on the outside and EVA foam on the inside. The result is comfortable cushioning with all the responsive cushioning you need to have fun. The upper is also stripped down with a simple layer of knit. The ventilation is thus optimal but several runners have noted that the upper is unfortunately a little fragile. As you can see, the Nike Revolution 5 is a basic model that represents good value for money at around 50 pounds (60 dollars). Moreover, with 255 grams (men's version), it's a relatively lightweight model. It can be interesting to alternate with your main shoes during easy recovery workouts or to run at the gym on a treadmill. If you're looking for an inexpensive but slightly more advanced model, the Nike Legend React may also be a good choice.

Brooks is back with its famous lightweight trainer, now available for the first time in GTS (stability version). The all-new Launch 8 is already creating a buzz in the running world and is noticeable a mile away! Available in lime green and a dusty rose hue, the benefits of the Launch 8 transcend outward appearance—this trainer performs. Whether opting for Brooks' Go-to-Support technology or the standard 8, here's what you should know to decide on using the Launch for your daily workouts.

Like some of its colleagues (we're looking at you, Glycerin 19), the Launch 8 comes in both neutral and GTS. GTS provides added support on the shoe's platform with GuideRails technology and works to stabilize a runner's stride. Unlike previous models that have offered GTS, the Launch 8 incorporates GuideRails technology seamlessly into the shoe's design. The overall feel is a firm, somewhat dense ride that gets the job done. The standard 8, meanwhile, lends itself to as smooth of a ride as its GTS cousin. The two share many similarities; both are leaning toward a more responsive feel and an uptempo pace. This responsiveness comes from the midsole, engineered with BioMoGo foam, though some runners were less than impressed. One comment focused on the overall stiffness of the shoe, even after a generous break-in period. BioMoGo also lacks pop, making it fairly unremarkable compared to the Brooks Tempo or Elite models' technology.

Also, the upper of the Launch 8 is designed with an air mesh to keep feet cooler. It's worth noting that, with a few exceptions, nearly all trainers have a breathable mesh upper—it pretty much comes with the territory. The toe box is roomy and keeps feet locked in place throughout a run. The outsole is excellent on both the standard and GTS versions, with blown rubber that lasts after miles of use. The overall traction and durability are unparalleled for the caliber and price point of the 8.

In summary, the Launch 8 is ideal for uptempo runners and those seeking a highly durable shoe. Despite some reported stiffness, users didn't have many other complaints; however, the midsole wasn't unanimously successful. Despite its lightweight design, BioMoGo was simply too firm for a comfortable ride. These are also not recommended for runners who expect a snap or "pep" in their step to propel them forward. For an extremely affordable price, given the great Brooks name and the shoe's quality, the Launch 8 delivers. However, if you are expecting something groundbreaking or truly remarkable, you would do well to look elsewhere.

The Rocket X is Hoka One One's new carbon-fiber plate running shoe. It features a classic, simple, and sleek design with the marathon in mind. As we'll see, its specific configuration can be very effective but not necessarily suitable for everyone.

First of all, the Hoka Rocket X is closer to a classic racing shoe than a carbon plate model. The semi-rigid carbon-fiber unit is unobtrusive and offers good bounce without the "trampoline" effect of other carbon shoes—many testers compare the Rocket X to the Saucony Endorphin Pro in terms of the ride but find the latter smoother overall. The CMEVA midsole has a stack height of 32 mm under the heel and 27 mm under the forefoot and offers a simple and effective cushioning, described by testers as firm and moderately springy. It doesn't have much to do with the signature Hoka plush cushioning. However, it seems that the platform's firmness and the low drop (5 mm) limit the shoe's versatility. According to the runners, it takes a quick pace to "activate" the carbon plate's propulsion benefit. The Rocket X is equipped with Meta-Rocker technology, but it's not very effective on this model. According to several testers, it's best to forefoot strike to get the most out of this shoe. However, most runners are heel strikers, which reduces the potential audience of the Rocket X.

Next, the lightweight and breathable mesh of the upper offers precise and flexible foot lockdown: the ideal configuration to combine comfort and race-ready fit. Also, the heel counter is soft and not too high, which will please runners with Achilles problems. The toe box is moderately spacious and should not be a concern for runners with wider feet.

Finally, the rubber outsole is grippy enough despite its seemingly smooth texture and is sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear.

To summarize, the Hoka Rocket X is a good carbon-fiber plate racing running shoe. Still, its particular configuration—which favors forefoot strikers—isn't versatile enough to rival carbon plate champions like the Nike AlphaFly or the Adidas Adios Pro, especially over long distances. However, it can be an interesting option if you are looking for a simple yet edgy carbon plate competition shoe for short or medium distances.

The Asics Gel Pulse 11 is a comfortable and effective road shoe. It's in the mid-range of the Asics running shoe collection with a simple and sturdy build at an affordable price. This new version offers more padding with a stack height of 31 mm under the heel instead of 21 mm previously. Unfortunately, while the cushioning is more comfortable and will appeal to runners looking for good shock absorption, the downside is that the shoe is much heavier. It now weighs 322 grams for men and 272 grams for women, almost 100 grams more than the 10. The Gel Pulse 11 is a comfortable shoe overall, although it has a slightly narrow forefoot. The sole provides comfortable and responsive cushioning, especially with the help of its Gel. Then, the upper offers good lockdown while increasing airflow. In summary, the Asics Gel Pulse 11 is a good road running shoe, but its new configuration may be confusing for fans of previous models.

The Asics Gel Nimbus 23 represents the old guard of the Japanese brand. As such, it offers a classic but very reliable configuration. Does it make sense to go on with the Nimbus, or is it time to ditch it for sleeker models?

First of all, Asics has made few changes to its bestseller. The Nimbus 23 retains the very successful upper from the 22 version with a few improvements, such as a thicker, more comfortable tongue to lock-in the foot. The lockdown is comfortable and can be forgotten, which in the end is the most important thing. The toe box has a moderate size and should fit most runners.

Cushioning provides an unvarnished but very satisfying ride for daily training and long distances. The combination of foam and Gel pads gives good shock dispersion. The underfoot feel is relatively soft with a touch of firmness. An interesting point unanimously noted by the testers is the platform's flexibility, especially thanks to the deep flex grooves. The shoe offers a slight rebound but nothing spectacular. Finally, let's note that although the Nimbus is a neutral running shoe, it slightly stabilizes the foot's movement, which can reassure runners who like to have some structure in their shoes.

The outsole is based on previous models' winning formula (also present on many of the brand's models): AHAR+ under the heel and AHAR under the forefoot. This carbon rubber is undoubtedly one of the elements that contribute to the shoe's high weight (309 g/10.9 oz), but it has the advantage of making the shoe very durable for long workouts.

In summary, the Asics Gel Nimbus 23 remains true to itself with a traditional, tried-and-tested configuration. It's an interesting choice to have in rotation with other lighter and snappier models. However, all truth be told, if you've never worn a Nimbus in your life, there's little reason to start.

While the Nimbus dominates the top of the Japanese brand's range (in popularity), the Gel Pulse reigns unchallenged on the more affordable models. At $100 (base price, quickly reduced during sales periods), it represents a value for money that's hard to beat.

Its main asset is the ultra-resistant AHAR rubber outsole that easily lasts several hundred miles. The Gel Pulse is therefore ideal for daily runs and especially long ones. The grip is also excellent, including on wet pavement, as noted by several testers.

Cushioning is more basic with AmpliFoam, Asics' mid-range foam (sorry, no Flytefoam here), and a Gel pad under the heel. The result, while not stunning, is more than decent for a comfortable ride. On the other hand, the shoe is stable, which will reassure runners (overpronators or not) who prefer a well-structured platform. However, this version 12 follows the new direction taken by the P11 with a thicker sole (31-mm stack height under the heel) at the expense of weight: 11 oz/312 g for men and 9 oz/255 g for women, which is rather heavy.

The fit of the shoe is the main negative point: several runners found the Gel Pulse 12 too narrow. The previous model suffered from the same problem, which obviously has not been corrected.

In summary, the Asics Gel Pulse 12 brings few modifications compared to the 11th model, which marked a major overhaul of the series. The result is a reliable and affordable shoe—a good choice for daily workouts.

The second model in New Balance's FuelCell Propel line will take you anywhere you want to go! Its snappy toe-off response and supportive design make the V2 a practical (and affordable) daily trainer. This new version marks a significant shift that could disconcert fans of the first iteration.

The midsole of the V2 lends itself to a smooth ride that performs on fast days. In fact, the "pop" of this shoe calls to mind the phrase, "...a spring in your step!" Drastically different from its V1 forerunner—no pun intended—this midsole is an entirely different beast. Where its soft, cushiony midsole characterized the V1, the firmer design of the V2 has true rocker appeal. Another noticeable modification is the upper's new design, which has meant a thinner tongue and a stiffer fit for runners. While it still gets the job done, users of the V2 say that the new upper is a step in the wrong direction. Fortunately, the outsole is engineered with NDurance rubber, which provides enhanced durability. The V2 is a road shoe but provides enough traction to grip terrain well on light trails.

While the V2 has many strong qualities for its price point, there are a few downsides to Propel's latest model. For one thing, while it's a great shoe for normal to fast days, it may not be the best recovery option. If shoes were a race, the V1 would be a marathon, and the V2 would be a sprint. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing—it all depends on what you're looking for. Also, as mentioned, the upper is described as a "definite step backward" by users, who preferred the more comfortable V1 design. The overall engineering of the V2 is less flexible and clunkier than its predecessor.

Ultimately, with a very affordable price point of $100, the attractive Propel V2 performs in all the ways it should. For those seeking a shoe that performs well at a value, the V2 might be a fantastic option. However, runners seeking shoes for longer rides should consider other options, as should runners who prefer a softer, more flexible design. Maybe a future V3 model will combine the best of both the V1 and V2!

The On Cloudflow 2.0 is the 2020 version of the original Cloudflow. Engineered with an innovative design and updated features, the Cloudflow 2.0 is made for 5k, 10k, and even half-marathon races. A few noteworthy qualities of the Cloudflow 2.0 include its Helion super foam midsole, which promotes a snappy ride and a consistently smooth ride with its well-cushioned padding—perfect for ensuring optimal comfort on shorter runs. Additionally, the toe box is an ideal width for accommodating a range of foot sizes, from narrow to wide, and is purportedly quite airy due to its breathable upper mesh material. Runners remarked it was a clear step up from the original Cloudflow design. The outsole of the 2.0 has been updated, as well, offering improved traction for a better grip on wet roads. Runners who tried the Cloudflow 2.0 did report a few of the shoe's disadvantages, including a lack of support, faulty outsole design (rocks and debris lodge easily in the grooves), and even stated that the shoe's design caused some abrasions after running longer distances. However, for short-term use, training sessions, and short to moderate races, the 2.0 did not disappoint, offering runners a speed advantage, breathable fabric, and enhanced comfort with its Helion midsole padding. However, the On Cloudflow 2.0 may be a bit pricier than its performance warrants. The promise of superior quality due to the Swiss design of the shoe just doesn't seem to materialize in the Cloudflow 2.0. On a scale of 1-10, we rank this running shoe an 8.7 for its overall positive feedback and enhanced technology from the original Cloudflow design. Runners looking for long-wear shoes that will persevere on trails and longer distances, however, should consider other options.

The Hoka Bondi is one of those shoes that popularized the brand with its massive high-stack sole that offers soft and comfortable cushioning. The seventh model in the series continues this trend with little change from the previous version.

The sole is slightly thinner with now 33 mm under the heel for men and 31 mm for women. The drop remains low at 4 mm. The sole uses a simple and efficient configuration: EVA foam combined with Hi-Abrasion rubber on some important areas of the outsole to protect the shoe and improve grip.

The testers found this configuration comfortable while noting a lack of bounce and flexibility. Indeed, the platform doesn't flex with the movement of the foot. Also, the shoe is rather heavy with 323 g/11.4 oz for men, 252 g/8.9 oz for women, which doesn't help for speed training that requires good agility (e.g. tempo runs). Thus, the Bondi 7 is primarily intended for daily workouts and recovery runs. Some testers even said that they liked this shoe but for walking...

As for the rest, the upper offers fits well and effectively locks down the foot. The mesh is denser than before while still allowing some airflow.

In short, the Hoka Bondi 7 is a good road running shoe with comfortable cushioning but it lacks some 'pop' and flexibility to be remarkable. To be honest, the Bondi seems like an aging collection that, in 2020, is struggling to compete with shoes that are as cushioned but much more responsive.

The third model in the brand's Sonic series, the Salomon Sonic 3 Confidence, is all about added cushioning, support, and traction. The Confidence gives users an added "spring" in their step with its forward-propelling design, serving to energize runners and make it that much easier for them to achieve their desired speed. The Confidence also provides reliable traction for navigating a variety of terrains —though it is probably best for standard road use. Compared with its siblings, the Accelerate, and the Balance, the Confidence stands out for its optimal padding, which better accommodates long-distance runners with this added cushioning. Also, despite the thick stack height of 31 mm for the heel and 21 mm for the forefoot, the cushioning is rather firm to offer a good pop for a more responsive ride. Confidence also commented that the lacing area and tongue have an elastic quality, which means that the shoe can be molded to each user's uniquely-shaped foot. Overall, it's a supportive and reliable running shoe that works perfectly for most longer outdoor excursions and activities. There are a few potential drawbacks to the Confidence's design, including a restrictive midfoot area and an insecure heel collar, which isn't as supportive as the rest of the shoe. Users also noted that the Confidence's design is much clunkier than the Accelerate or the Balance. Perhaps because of this overall big design, the shoe itself tends to run on the larger side, so it's a good idea for users to size down when purchasing. In addition, the unusually-dense mesh fabric of the Confidence combined with its gusseted tongue takes away from foot breathability, especially when compared with other Sonic options. Pricing for the Salomon Sonic 3 Confidence is $130, which is decent, but perhaps not an excellent value given some of the downsides of the shoe. Ultimately, the Sonic 3 Confidence is a good choice for beginner to moderate runners planning to run medium to long distances, due to its extra padding for absorbing the shock of pounding.

Every year, the Adidas UltraBoost is much anticipated but eventually leads to plenty of mixed reviews. The UB21 is no exception and proposes the same formula: a model halfway between a sneaker and a running shoe that tries to combine style and performance.

The sleek design is an achievement on its own and will please runners who like good-looking shoes on their feet. The Primeknit upper and its bootie conception offer great comfort and impeccable foot lockdown, according to the testers. It's both breathable and stretchy for a precise and adaptive fit. Also, the Primeblue material uses 50% of recycled plastic from the oceans. The UB21 also marks the midfoot plastic cage's return that many runners decried in the past on previous versions. However, luckily it's barely noticeable this time.

Then, the cushioning shifts gear with a heel stack height of 31 mm instead of 27 mm the year before. Adidas announces 6% more Boost, and it shows: the small white TPU granules give a massive sole, especially in the heel area. Another significant change, the Linear Energy Push plastic plate, replaces the Torsion System of the previous models. It gives structure to the platform for better stability and a snappier toe-off. However, in practice, testers found the cushioning to be firm and clunky, with little bounce, although the shoe does provide a stable ride. The weight doesn't help with 12.3 oz (348 g) (even more than the previous model), limiting its speed ambitions.

Finally, the outsole also boasts a new design and succumbs to the exposed foam trend (only in the center) without limiting durability or grip, both of which are very good.

In summary, unless you're a fan of the UltraBoost collection, there's little reason to opt for the UB21 other than its comfortable lockdown, good shock absorption, and sleek design. Otherwise, the Ultraboost is too heavy and too stiff for an enjoyable ride, even for daily runs.

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.