The changing of seasons is upon us, and with it comes a new opportunity for your next PR. Rather than relying on your old and possibly worn-out running shoes, why not consider investing in a pair of 2023’s best running shoes?
The main criteria for running shoes are sufficient support, comfort, cushion, and weight. However, your decision may also be swayed by your running style (such as trail versus track, etc.), the shape of your foot, and various other factors.
Our team of runners and shoe experts at Marathon Sports researched and tested the best running shoes for 2023, so you don’t have to learn through trial and error. The following are our top 15 picks to make your decision easier, so you can hit the pavement or trails sooner.
Numerous factors contribute to creating an excellent pair of running shoes. Our team dedicates itself to providing the best, non-biased reviews based on how the shoe performs and feels on trails, paved roads, tracks, rocky surfaces, and more.
We assess the shoe’s weight, flexibility, cushion, comfort, sole thickness, and durability to find those that stand apart. We aim to provide the most valuable, reliable reviews to help you make the most of every run.
The perfect running shoe is different for every athlete. Some value a lightweight construction over extra cushioning and vice versa. Runners who have experienced knee injuries may prefer shoes with less “drop” or “offset” between the heel and toe to prevent further strain on the knee.
The choice also depends on the style of running you prefer. To stay comfortable, a long-distance runner will opt for more cushioning than a short-distance runner. Shoes made specifically for trail running provide more support and grip for uneven terrain.
We reviewed running shoes with various weights, offsets, cushioning, and styles to help you choose the one that’s best for your running style and preferences.
At Marathon Sports, we love running, and we know quality running shoes can make the experience even better. These are our top 15 picks for 2023.
The Gel-Nimbus 25 is an ultra-cushiony running shoe designed for maximum comfort. Our reviewers described it as even softer than previous versions. This is all thanks to the FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning and recently upgraded PureGEL technology. This model has 20 percent more foam under the foot than previous models.
In addition to cushion, the PureGEL technology offers shock absorption for smooth transitions from heel to toe. Long-distance runners and those with prior injuries will appreciate the Gel-Nimbus 25’s soft landings.
The new knit tongue is another upgrade from previous models. The stretchy material and unique construction offer a personalized foot as well as easy foot entry. Comfort, a perfect fit, and smoother transitions are the trademarks of the new Gel-Nimbus 25. Our reviewers felt that running in this shoe was soft and energized. Some even claimed they shaved seconds off their mile time.
The Gel-Nimbus 25 weighs 10.3 ounces for a men’s size 8 and 9.2 ounces for a women’s size 8.
For a deeper dive into the Gel-Nimbus 25, check out our full Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 Review.
The Brooks Ghost is a tried and true choice for women’s or men’s running shoes, a staple on store shelves and streets for 15 years. It’s an everyday running shoe known for comfort and reliability day in and day out.
Our reviewers love the Brooks Ghost 15 for its soft cushioning and supportive construction. The new DNA Loft v2 compression-molded midsole is an upgrade from the Ghost 14’s DNA Loft. Even softer and more lightweight, it’s what sets the Brooks Ghost 15 apart from previous models and other classic running shoes.
We suggest the Brooks Ghost 15 for everyday road running. It weighs just 9.8 ounces and has a drop from heel to toe of 12mm.
For a similar fit with additional support, a great option is the Brooks Adrenaline 22 GTS
The Hoka Clifton 9 is another classic running shoe ideal for daily training. The impressive amount of cushioning makes it a favorite among our Marathon Sports long-distance runners, as well as those who prefer a brisk walk. The thick EVA foam cushion provides comfort no matter how many miles you feel like going.
The Clifton 9 cushioning gives a bouncy, energetic feeling that distance runners often prefer. However, it remains lightweight enough to wear day in and day out.
We find the Hoka Clifton 9 especially comfortable for runners with wide feet or those who prefer a bit of extra room in the toe. The spacious toe box did not cause any rubbing or blisters among our testers, and they appreciated that detail.
This shoe weighs in at 7.3 ounces for women and 8.7 ounces for men. The heel-to-toe drop is just 5mm.
If you’d like some additional support, check out the HOKA Arahi 6
The Altra Torin 6 is a shoe for runners who train often and like to diversify their workouts. It can support a runner through slow jogs, long-distance races, and gym days. These men’s and women’s running shoes are best for runners who put on their mileage in various ways.
Comfort is a key component of the Altra Torin 6. Most of it comes from the flexible FootPod Outsole and cushiony EGO MAX midsole. The shoe features a roomy toe box and a slightly higher heel collar than other everyday runners. Altra uses their Balanced Cushioning technology to position the heel and forefoot an equal distance from the ground, encouraging optimal alignment.
Some reviewers who wore the previous model (Altra Torin 5) noted the blister-causing tongue, but Torin’s designers listened and gave it a softer feel for the Torin 6.
These are comfortable and reliable running shoes for those who don’t want to buy multiple pairs for varying workouts. Slightly heavier than other classic running shoes on our list, they weigh 8.3 ounces for women and 9.9 ounces for men. The drop is 0mm.
Long-distance runners will find comfort, balance and supportive elements in the Mizuno Wave Rider 26.
Mizuno’s famous Enerzy foam is a favorite feature among our reviewers for the balance and comfort it provides while logging daily miles on the road. Combined with Mizuno’s Wave Plate, the shoe effectively disperses impacts, easing potential joint pain.
Mizuno built the Wave Rider 26 for long-distance runs, but our reviewers found it just as comfortable and reliable for recovery day jogs and dog walking. The simple, sophisticated look allows it to travel anywhere.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is 8.3 ounces for women and 10 ounces for men. The drop is 12mm.
You can probably imagine the On Cloudmonster’s stand-out features from its name. This running shoe imitates the feeling of running on clouds with maximum cushioning for energetic and comfortable runs. Landings are soft, and takeoffs are explosive.
The energy and cloud-like comfort comes from On Running’s CloudTec cushioning and Helion foam. Our reviewers praised the Cloudmonster for its unrivaled impact protection in all directions, whether logging miles or attending a CrossFit class.
Runners looking for a shoe that gives extra bounce for a faster pace will appreciate the Cloudmonster’s impressive cushioning and lightweight construction. The women’s shoe weighs in at 8.1 ounces and the men’s at 9.7 ounces. The drop is 6mm from heel to toe.
If you’d like some extra support when running on clouds, try the On Cloudrunner
Saucony has been designing and manufacturing top-quality running shoes for over a century. The Saucony Ride 16 proves the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Saucony redesigned the Ride 16 for 2023, with comfort at the peak of importance. This year’s edition features an extra-comfortable sock liner and softer cushioning. There’s less weight and more foam in Saucony’s unique FORMFIT design that provides support and cushion on all points of contact.
The Saucony Ride 16 is softer, more breathable, lighter-weight, and more durable than before. Our reviewers praised it as one of the best daily training shoes for 2023.
The women’s shoe weighs 7.8 ounces, and the men’s weighs 8.8 ounces. Both have a heel-to-toe offset of 8mm.
Looking for some added stability for your ride? Try the Saucony Guide 16
New Balance is another iconic name in sports footwear. Dating back to 1906, the company prides itself on providing top-quality running shoes for everyday wear.
New Balance designed the Fresh Foam X 880 v13 for daily workouts, including runs, walks, and cross-training. Our reviewers remarked on the shoe’s ideal combination of support and comfort, thanks in part to the new Fresh Foam X foam throughout the underfoot. The synthetic/mesh upper offers support, breathability, and an ideal fit.
The shoe’s NDurance rubber outsole provides the durability runners need for everyday wear. The sleek, sophisticated aesthetic encourages runners to wear this shoe from the street to the store and everywhere in between. It’s an impressive combination of style, comfort, and durability for anyone seeking a running shoe they can call their go-to.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 800 v13 weighs 8.6 ounces for women and 10.9 ounces for men. The heel-to-toe drop is 10mm.
The Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is a running shoe that athletes can feel confident wearing in all settings. It’s sleek, stylish, and made for everyday training.
Puma characterizes the Velocity Nitro 2 as an all-in-one running shoe, and our experts believe they hit the nail on the head. Standout features include the light and responsive NITROFOAM advanced foam technology, high traction rubber PUMAGRIP, and engineered mesh upper for breathability.
A significant advantage our reviewers saw is that the Puma Velocity Nitro 2 doesn’t appear bulky like many other cushioned running shoes. The slimmer appearance makes this a shoe that can easily head from training to a casual day at work. However, reflective accents and available vibrant colorways provide superior visibility for running in low-light conditions.
The women’s shoe weighs just 7.3 ounces, and the men’s weighs 8.8 ounces. The heel-to-toe drop is 10mm.
The Gel-Cumulus 25 is another Asics running shoe now featuring some of the company’s latest innovations. It’s an everyday trainer designed for neutral runners and those who overpronate. This year’s model is more responsive than ever.
New for 2023 is a superior heel fit, softer FF BLAST™ cushioning, and rear and forefoot PureGEL™ technology. It’s the ultimate daily running shoe for impact absorption and comfort. The newly engineered mesh upper, OrthoLite X-30 sock liner, and gender-specific 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION™ make running in the Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 feel more personalized than ever.
Our team was impressed by the innovations Asics brought to their running shoes for 2023, and we believe the Asics Gel-Cumulus is guaranteed to be a top seller alongside the new Gel-Nimbus.
Adidas designed the Adizero SL to push runners to their new personal bests. To do so, they included all the elements necessary for an everyday running shoe to remain comfortable, supportive, and durable.
Our reviewers appreciated the pillow-like Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro cushioning that seemed to add speed, bounce, and comfort. Ultra-soft mesh in key areas provides breathability for long-distance runs, while the full rubber outsole adds reliability and traction in wet or dry conditions.
We are particularly pleased that the Adidas Adizero SL is made from recycled materials, including an upper made of more than 50 percent recycled content. The iconic sportswear company’s desire to reduce plastic waste made this another stand-out shoe for 2023.
The Adidas Adizero SL weighs in at only 7.4 ounces for women and 8.6 ounces for men, with a drop of 8.5mm.
HOKA loaded up on cushioning for the Bondi 8. That’s a big reason why our reviewers chose it as one of the top long-distance running shoes for 2023.
The new, full-length, modified foam midsole provides unrivaled cushioning for a softer and lighter feel than other versions. The Bondi 8 also features a redesigned outsole with strategically-placed rubber for increased durability and traction that can go the distance.
The shoe’s wider platform and extra cushion add some weight, but the HOKA Bondi 8 remains relatively light at 10.8 ounces for men and 8.9 ounces for women. The heel-to-toe drop is 4mm.
The Brooks Glycerin 20 is another favorite Brooks running shoe for 2023. The Glycerin is traditionally Brooks’ softest shoe for long-distance runners who need to stay comfortable while going the distance.
A new feature for 2023 is the new DNA Loft V3 midsole, replacing the former DNA Loft. This nitrogen-infused midsole is lighter, bouncier, and more shock-absorbing than previous models. Our reviewers felt the Brooks Glycerin 20 felt poppy and full of energy from the first mile through the last.
The plush cushioning and improvements on previous models are what drew our team to this Brooks long-distance shoe. We also appreciated that the Glycerin 20 is available in a support version and medium, wide, and narrow widths.
The extra cushion adds a bit of weight, putting the women’s shoe at 9.1 ounces and the men’s at 10.1 ounces. The heel-to-toe drop is 10mm.
The Triumph is another one of Saucony’s running shoes that has been around for years and has improved with every edition. In our opinion, the Saucony Triumph 20 is the best yet.
The Saucony Triumph 20 is a go-to road runner that encourages athletes to worry less about which shoe they put on and simply hit the streets. It’s a day-in and day-out performer with all-around comfort and cushion. The TPU-based Pwrrun+ insole is new, lightweight, and more responsive than ever.
Our reviewers particularly liked that the Triumph 20 provides cushion and stability without sacrificing bounce. It’s a high-energy running shoe that’s reliable for the long haul.
Comfort is another key ingredient in the new Saucony Triumph 20. It features a breathable mesh heel collar and tongue and a plush sock liner. The heel-toe offset increased from 8mm to 10mm for 2023.
The women’s shoe weighs 8.8 ounces, and the men’s is 9.7 ounces.
Increased foam is a theme among 2023 running shoes, and our reviewers are pleased. The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 is similar to several of our other favorite models with its super-soft, cushioning construction. New Balance’s Pillowy Fresh Foam offers support, comfort, and bounce for less impact and quicker take-offs.
Other stand-out features include the sock-like knit upper that is secure yet stretchy and breathable. The padded and extended heel counter offers additional support and protection against discomfort and blistering. A roomy toe box makes this a running shoe for varying foot widths.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 is made for long-distance runs, but the cushion, impact protection, and bounce make it suitable for other workouts too. It weighs slightly more than most other shoes on our list at 8.3 ounces for women and 10.3 ounces for men. The heel-to-toe drop is 8mm.
Our Marathon Sports team researched and reviewed the latest and greatest running shoes for 2023. As avid runners and athletes, we take pride in connecting you with running shoes to help you achieve your goals.
View all of the shoes listed above and other top-rated running shoes in our men’s and women’s collections online, or swing by your local Marathon Sports to try them before you buy!
Who doesn't like free gear? Enter to win your favorite in shoes, apparel and more.
Offer only good for first-time subscribers. We will only use the information provided in accordance with our privacy policy.
Tell us a bit about you so we can provide you with products and gear that you love.
Offer only good for first-time subscribers. We will only use the information provided in accordance with our privacy policy.
Tell us a bit about you so we can provide you with products and gear that you love.
Offer only good for first-time subscribers. We will only use the information provided in accordance with our privacy policy.
