Research running shoes, and you’ll undoubtedly come across the word “cushioning.” That’s because a shoe’s cushioning plays a significant role in the shoe’s comfort.
Cushioning provides impact absorption, smooth transitions, a soft ride, and an energetic feel. Cushioned running shoes can enhance your running experience on roads, trails, at the gym, and everywhere you like to run.
Our Marathon Sports experts researched and tested various cushioned running shoes from the best running shoe brands. The mission was to help you narrow your search for the ideal running shoes for your needs.
The Marathon Sports Review Process
At Marathon Sports, we’re determined to help you find the best-fitting and most effective running shoes for your running style. That’s why we spend weeks researching and testing the latest and greatest running shoes.
We logged countless miles testing each cushioned running shoe’s comfort, responsiveness, support, and overall fit. We assessed the latest cushioning technologies and their effectiveness in providing energy return while remaining soft and lightweight. The result is our definitive list of the ten best cushioned running shoes for 2024.
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for 2024
Numerous brands updated their running shoes for 2024, including some models that hadn’t been substantially upgraded in years. Our reviewers chose the ten absolute best options for runners who like the soft and energetic feel of a cushioned running shoe.
- Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
- Saucony Triumph 21
- Brooks Glycerin 21
- Mizuno Wave Sky 7
- HOKA Bondi 8
- New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
- Adidas Supernova Rise
- Altra VIA Olympus
- On Cloudmonster 2
- Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 isn’t the fastest daily trainer on the block, but what it lacks in speed it makes up in supreme comfort. The FF Blast Plus Eco foam cushioning delivers a relaxing jog in the clouds. Our reviewers loved the wider heel platform; it provides more support and better shock absorption for landings.
One of the reasons the Asics Gel-Nimbus series is popular with runners is its excellent balance of weight and comfort. PureGEL technology weighs 65% less than conventional gel, keeping you agile and active. The Gel-Nimbus 26 gets an upgraded pair of hybrid outsole rubbers that boost traction for a variety of weather conditions.
Our favorite feature is the new knit upper and stretch collar. The soft yet durable fabric provides the cushioning you need below and the luxury you want on top.
Saucony Triumph 22
The Saucony Triumph 22 delivers the same incredible comfort that owners of previous Triumph models have come to rely on with a variety of new and improved features.
Our reviewers feel the most notable improvement is the updated midsole foam. With the newest upgrade, Saucony updated the PWRRUN+ cushion to their higher energy PWRRUN PB foam. Used in their popular Endorphin racing shoe series, this premium foam gives the shoe a lighter and more responsive max-cushioned feel. This upgraded cushioning is supplemented by a padded tongue and heel collar for additional snug comfort.
This cushioned and comfortable shoe is made even better by the plush and breathable mesh upper that features an all-new adapted lacing system to fit your unique foot shape and keep you feeling secure as you move. The wider platform and rocker shape also help with transitions and provide additional support as you tackle long runs.
There’s no concern about traction either, with durable, long-lasting XT-900 carbon rubber strategically placed on the outsole. The shoe is also made from vegan and recycled materials.
Brooks Glycerin 21
If you’re looking for a comfortable running shoe that offers maximum versatility, it’s hard to beat the Brooks Glycerin 21, especially with the evolved cushioning compared to the Glycerin 20. Excellent for speed training, long jogs, and recovery runs, this shoe responds well to your inspiration for the day.
When your muscles are sore, the Glycerin 21’s extra 2 millimeters of DNA Loft v3 midsole cushioning come to the rescue. This nitrogen-infused foam is one of the softest our reviewers have found, delivering an addictive “weightless” feeling.
The Glycerin 21 sports a wider geometry, holistic alignment technology, and lightweight RoadTack rubber soles for smoother transitions. You can feel the support, but it doesn’t slow you down.
We also love the dual warp-knit upper options (classic and StealthFit). You can choose the right fit for your feet without sacrificing breathability or softness.
Mizuno Wave Sky 8
The Mizuno Wave Sky 8 elevates cushioning to new heights, refining this beloved model with advanced comfort features. As soon as you slip into this shoe, you’re greeted by a dual-layered midsole for unmatched cushioning.
The top layer is composed of the supremely soft and resilient Mizuno Enerzy NXT foam, while beneath it lies a robust layer of Mizuno Enerzy foam. This combination ensures each stride is more comfortable than the last, with the top layer creating a smooth and soft landing and the stiffer bottom layer offering a stable base.
Central to its design is the innovative Mizuno Wave plate, expertly engineered to distribute impact across the shoe, ensuring a smoother, more stable run. Durability meets lightweight design in its X10 carbon rubber outsole, promising longevity without the extra bulk. The shoe’s stretch-woven upper not only offers a snug, breathable fit but also champions sustainability by incorporating recycled materials.
HOKA Bondi 8
HOKA is a brand known for its ultra-cushioned running shoes. The Bondi is one of the company’s most iconic models, with softness and balance that’s challenging for the competition to rival.
Upgrades for 2024 include extended heel geometry with a billowed rear crash pad that makes landings softer than ever. It also offers a balanced transition from your heel to forefoot propulsion. The foam is also lighter and spongier than previous models, offering an even more cloud-like feel.
Hoka’s memory foam collar and engineered mesh construction add even more overall comfort, encouraging runners to go the extra mile.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
If your idea of a dream max-cushion running shoe is “fluffy,” then the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is the perfect companion. Taking cushioning to new heights, the X 1080 v13 sports a new super foam that weighs less. In turn, New Balance added an extra 4 millimeters of the stuff. The brand clearly knows what its audience wants and delivers in spades.
Our reviewers described the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 as “ultra-soft,” “smooth,” and “airy.” Instead of going for something revolutionary, New Balance took everything great about the v12 and cranked the plushness up a notch.
In terms of performance, this shoe is ideal for runners who prefer bouncy transitions. The v13 puts a definite spring in your step, offering an energizing feel that absorbs impacts smoothly. At the same time, it has a firmer upper for increased support, balance, and stability.
Adidas Supernova Rise
Comfort and performance aren’t mutually exclusive. The Adidas Supernova Rise is proof that you can have plenty of cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness, agility, or control.
This neutral trainer blends Dreamstrike+ super foam cushioning with the Adidas Support Rod System (EVA-foam rods) to deliver deep comfort in the right places. The forefoot has a generous 26 millimeters of cushioning and the heel offers 36 millimeters. The mesh upper also features cushioning, making this arguably the comfiest Adidas runner out there.
With that 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, the Supernova Rise offers excellent support for the calf, ankle, Achilles tendon, and feet. As you would expect from an Adidas trainer, the Dreamstrike+ midsole is also designed to enhance your stride. The performance-focused foam transfers plenty of energy back to your feet on transitions to keep your speed up on long runs. Our testers liked the boost of stamina. Many preferred this shoe as their go-to daily trainer.
Altra VIA Olympus 2
The Altra Via Olympus 2 is for long-distance road running in optimal comfort. It features 33mm of Altra’s EGO™ MAX cushioning in the midsole. Our reviewers mentioned that the stack height appears almost too high initially, but a single run in the Altra VIA Olympus proves otherwise.
Reviewers described the ride as energetic and luxurious, with impressive responsiveness. After logging dozens of miles, our reviewers agreed the shoe felt just as comfortable during the last mile as it did in the first. The shoe’s rocker shape with an upturned toe promotes superior propulsion for race days or simply beating a personal best.
Altra’s signature design comes into play with the Via Olympus 2’s balanced cushioning. This zero-drop shoe keeps your forefoot and heel equal distances from the ground, making it a perfect choice for runners that value a natural running experience and want to improve their form and alignment without sacrificing cushioning and protection.
On Cloudmonster 2
Some running shoes use the term “max cushion” as a buzzword, but it’s easy to see that the On Cloudmonster 2 has max cushioning as its heart and soul. In fact, the Cloudmonster 2 adds a whopping 6 millimeters of stack height for added comfort compared to its predecessor. The new Helios dual-density foam gets the balance of plush and performance just right.
Another fantastic innovation for comfort is the way this version sandwiches the Speedboard between foam layers, delivering strong push-off but keeping the soles of your feet on cloud nine the whole time. In case you’re new to the On lineup, the Speedboard is a polymer support layer that absorbs energy as your heel strikes the pavement and transfers it instantly to the toeboard to energize your next step.
Our team’s favorite comfort feature of the Cloudmonster 2 is its CloudTec sole pods. Like a spring, each pod compresses and adjusts according to your unique gait and terrain conditions.
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Everyone has a different routine for daily training, from jogging in a nearby park to going for runs in the wilderness. Where the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 excels is its ability to provide a comfortable run wherever your training takes you. Not many daily trainers are a good fit for off-road runs, but the Velocity Nitro 3 delivers as promised. The versatility comes from a dual-density foam design that has a firmer layer of protective Pro foam on the bottom and comfort-focused Nitro foam on top with nitrogen-infused softness.
The heel-to-toe drop of the Velocity Nitro 3 is the same as the previous version (10 millimeters), but the stack height for the heel and forefoot has increased to 36 and 26 millimeters respectively. This extra stack height ups the bounce factor and stability.
One thing to keep in mind, according to our reviewers, is that this daily trainer has a snug profile for the upper. Many loved the sleek and supportive fit, especially on more rugged terrain where quick movements matter.
Find Your Best Cushioned Running Shoes at Marathon Sports
Every runner is different. Athletes have varying gaits, foot shapes, pronation, preferences, and running goals. The ten cushioned running shoes above vary in width, cushioning, weight, and technologies to suit every type of runner.
At Marathon Sports, it’s our mission to connect you with the best running shoes of 2024 and beyond. Our The Right Fit™ system allows us to create a customized list of running shoes and gear to help you reach your full running potential. Contact our customer care team online or in stores to learn more about finding the right cushioned running shoes for every way you like to explore and compete on two feet.
