Whether you’re an experienced long distance runner or someone looking to get out on the road, or treadmill, for the very first time there’s one thing you have to get right and that’s your choice of footwear.
It’s a crowded marketplace for running footwear right now but as we move into the summer and people are ditching indoor treadmills for the great outdoors then you’re going to need shoes that are durable, keep you cool and protected on a number of different surfaces.
We’ve had a look at what you need and highlighted ten of the best running shoes available right now from budget shoes to expert level runners, for both men and women, so you can run with confidence this summer.
Men's Nike Zoom Fly 5
Renowned for offering pacy boost to runners and a lightweight design, these Nike Zoom Fly 5s also come in three different and very eye-catching colourways. Perhaps a shoe for the slightly more experienced runner, the Fly 5s for men come in at a steep price but will give you a burst of speed just when you need it.
Price: £152
Get them here.
Unisex On Running Cloudflow
A solid all rounder, the Challenger 6 can adapt to a harsh trail or a bumpy street. Crucially, the On Running shoe has an emphasis on agility and traction so if you find yourself on a particularly uneven surface this shoe can adapt fast and at £71.99, it also won’t break the bank either.
Price: £130.00
Buy them here.
Men's Hoka Challenger 6
A solid all rounder for male runners, the Challenger 6 can adapt to a harsh trail or a bumpy street. Crucially, the shoe has an emphasis on agility and traction so if you find yourself on a particularly uneven surface this shoe can adapt fast and at £71.99, it also won’t break the bank either.
Price: £71.99
Buy them here.
Women's Adidas Ultraboost Light
A favourite among many runners, the Adidas Ultraboost is universally ,oved for just how light it is as a shoe. The last thing you want when running is the feeling of heavy legs and so this is a self styled women's neutral running shoe that aims to provide the a cushioned and adaptable experience.
Price: £170
Buy them here.
Unisex Nike Pegasus Trail 4
Is this the most stylish running shoe out there right now? It’s possible. Coming in both men and womens in a variation of colours, it's a comfortable, durable and sleek in equal measure. It might not be a running shoe tried and tested marathon runners will flock to but if you want to look good every day while mastering your 5k or even 10k time then the Trail is great for tough terrain.
Price: £124.95
Buy them here.
Unisex New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
The most immediate aspect of this shoe is the massive foam cushion it sits on and while it might not be aesthetically pleasing as some of the other shoes this is a solid start if you’re starting out running. There are other versions available but it comes in both men and women’s versions, and while the price may put some people off it’s a New Balance shoe that will put in the miles.
Price: From £120
Buy it here.
Brooks Glycerin 19 Men's Road Running Shoes
Perhaps it’s not the brand you’ve heard of in comparison to some of the big hitters on this list but Brooks have been making sturdy and durable running shoes as far back as the 1970s. This cheap offering for men looks good and provides a lot of cushion for those who are still getting to grips with their running style.
Price: From £67
Buy them here.
Women's ASICS GT-1000 11
Breathable and featuring a softer than soft sole, this bargain running shoe is one of the best for women on the market. This trainer isn’t just for putting in the yards on the road as it can also function as an allround active shoe for the gym and other activities.
Price from £62
Buy them here.
Women's Saucony Endorphin Shift 2
For under £70 this is a great shoe that, while it may not be spectacular, will keep you protected and comfortable whether hitting the gym or undertaking your weekly 5k. Crucially, it’s also a shoe that claims to keep your gait in check meaning for more consistency and speed.
Price: £64.99
Buy it here.
Men's Nike Winflo 8
One for the casual runner but at a price like this, and with a design like this, it's hard to say no to the Winflo as a great beginner running shoe. They're impressively cushioned and are lightweight which makes this a strong option for those starting their couch to 5ks, or even those who just like to warm up or down at the gym on the treadmill.
Price: £89.95
Buy them here.
