Women’s running shoes are more than just workout gear—they’re a wardrobe must-have. The right pair not only supports your feet and enhances your performance but also keeps you comfortable and injury-free, whether you’re logging miles or simply staying active. From breathable uppers that keep your feet cool to responsive midsoles that propel you forward, the best running shoes are designed to deliver the ideal balance of cushioning, stability, and style.
Of course, not everyone is hitting the track—some just love the sporty vibe of running sneakers for everyday wear. Whether you’re chasing your next PR or looking for a stylish pair for running errands, we’ve rounded up the best options to suit every need and look great while doing it.
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Best Brooks Women’s Running Shoe
Ghost Max Sneaker
The Ghost Max running shoe is built for comfort and stability, featuring a high stack height (39 mm in the heel and 33 mm in the forefoot) with DNA Loft v2 cushioning for a soft, responsive ride. It incorporates a GlideRoll rocker for smooth transitions, a plush mesh upper for breathability and comfort, and a wide base to enhance stability during your runs.
Best Hoka Women’s Running Shoe
Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 running shoe, the latest in the award-winning Clifton series, is lighter and more cushioned than ever. With an added 3mm of stack height, it offers a more responsive underfoot experience thanks to a new foam design and improved outsole. The streamlined upper has been refined by removing overlays and hotmelts, featuring a plusher heel, reflective heel panel, and a sleeker tongue with a single-side medial gusset for a more comfortable fit.
Best Adidas Women’s Running Shoe
Ultraboost 5X Sneaker
The Adidas Ultraboost 5X running sneaker features the lightest BOOST yet, delivering exceptional energy return for a fresh and responsive ride over long distances. The Torsion System between the heel and forefoot provides stability for a smooth and steady stride, while the Continental Rubber outsole offers reliable traction in both wet and dry conditions. Made in part with recycled materials, this shoe helps reduce waste and minimizes its environmental footprint.
Best Under Armour Women’s Running Shoe
Women’s UA Escape 4 Running Shoes
$90.00 at Under ArmourThis colorful highly-rated running shoe features soft Charged Cushioning®, lightweight materials, and enhanced breathability. Customers appreciate how lightweight and comfortable they are for running, walking and even everyday wear.
Best New Balance Women’s Running Shoe
Fresh Foam X 860v13 Sneaker
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 running sneaker offers the perfect blend of comfort and performance, making it ideal for everything from daily runs to race day. Its Fresh Foam X midsole provides plush cushioning without added weight, ensuring smooth transitions from landing to push-off, while the rocker profile enhances the natural heel-to-toe flow. A breathable, second-skin mesh upper delivers a snug and supportive fit, complemented by a solid rubber outsole for added forefoot stiffness during toe-off.
Best Saucony Women’s Running Shoe
Women’s Triumph 22
The Saucony Triumph 22 running sneaker elevates your run with its PWRRUN PB foam, offering enhanced cushioning and energy return for a joyful, responsive ride. Designed for those who view running as a source of happiness, it combines comfort with sleek style for an effortless, feel-good experience. With its transformed construction, the Triumph 22 makes every step cushy and enjoyable, adding a smile to every step.
Best Asics Women’s Running Shoe
GEL-NIMBUS 26 PARIS
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 running sneaker offers enhanced grip and durability with its HYBRID ASICSGRIP and AHARPLUS outsole, while the engineered knit upper provides a softer, more supportive midfoot fit. Its updated design features a sleeker profile and versatile new colorways for style both on and off the run. Committed to sustainability, this version boasts a carbon footprint 25% lighter than the industry average, reflecting Asics’ dedication to reducing environmental impact.
Best On Cloud Women’s Running Shoe
On Cloudvista Sneaker
The On Cloudvista sneaker stands out as a multifaceted, feather-light shoe for adventurous souls who thrive on trail running. This shoe adapts to a variety of terrains, including smooth dirt paths and moderately challenging trails. Equipped with a highly responsive midsole and an ergonomically designed outsole, the Cloudvista elevates speed and amplifies agility.
Best Nike Women’s Running Shoe
Nike Pegasus 41
The Pegasus 41 running sneaker combines responsive ReactX foam cushioning with dual Air Zoom units for an energized and lightweight ride, while an upgraded engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and reduces weight. Its plush collar and sockliner provide a secure, comfortable fit, and the waffle-inspired rubber outsole ensures excellent traction and flexibility. The new ReactX foam midsole is not only 13% more responsive than previous versions but also crafted with sustainability in mind, reducing its carbon footprint by at least 43%.
Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes
Hoka Mafate Speed 4 Sneaker
The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 is a lightweight trail running shoe with a breathable mesh upper and TPU overlays for comfort and support on rugged terrain. It has an oversized midsole for cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction, a reinforced toe cap, and a padded collar for protection and support on rough terrain.
The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 won the Runner’s World 2023 Shoe Awards for Best Trail Running Shoes.
Best Running Shoe Aesthetic Sneakers
If you’re just looking for a cool sneaker that has the aesthetic of a running shoe — but is more stylish than it is functional — then these cute (but pricey) options offer a stylish way to do that:
Loewe Women’s Running Shoe
Flow Retro Runner
Known for its minimalist aesthetic and Puzzle bag, the Spanish brand Loewe focuses on designing high-quality leather, and its Flow retro runner sneaker is no different. With its fabric, suede and leather intertwining into a colorblock design and featuring a rounded toe and cushioned footbed, this sneaker will quickly become your new favorite for everywhere life takes you.
Marc Jacobs Women’s Running Shoe
The Metallic Lazy Hiker
The Marc Jacobs Lazy Hiker sneaker blends functionality with luxury, featuring a bold monochromatic metallic design and a chunky, ultra-modern silhouette. This sporty yet high-fashion sneaker offers unparalleled comfort with its lace-up closure and monogrammed outsole detailing. With its amusing name, these sneakers are about making a statement on the streets and in your wardrobe.
Tory Burch Women’s Running Shoe
Good Luck Trainer Sneaker
Crafted to propel you forward, the Tory Burch Good Luck sneaker seamlessly merges style and comfort. Its sleek design features flattering lines and a deep ankle scoop that elongates the leg, while the oversized ergonomic sole provides a subtle lift. The shoe proudly displays the brand’s iconic Double T logo, adding a touch of sophistication.
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