Here Are the 15 Best Running Sneakers to Buy in 2019
Whether you’re buying your very first pair or replacing your road-battered favorites, buying a pair of running shoes is never an easy task. There are a multitude of brands screaming for your attention, all with their own different running lines containing different shoes for different types of training.
It’s unlikely (ok, impossible) that you’re at the level of marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge, but does that mean you can’t benefit from having the same running shoes? Or do you need running shoes tailored to your own ability? Can you run in any pair of sneakers or do you need ones specifically for running? How do you even buy a good pair of running shoes and, most important, does it really matter what they look like?
These are all questions that we’ll answer, as well giving you 15 of the best running shoes for men on the market right now — including the ones Eliud used to break the marathon world record.
How to Choose the Best Running Shoes
Deciding how to choose the best running shoes depends very much on how much and how often you plan to run in them. If you’re just starting out or simply enjoy casual runs, you should look for a pair with plenty of cushioning and stability that will make the act of running as pleasurable as possible.
If you’re looking for training shoe to achieve a specific goal, say a long distance event like a half or full marathon, you need a shoe that is both comfortable and durable enough to withstand heavy training. And if you’ve already been around the block a few times and ticked off a couple of races, maybe it’s time to invest something special that will help you go that little bit faster.
Ideally you'd be able to test a handful of shoes in store before you buy, but that's not an option for everybody. Instead, we recommend measuring your feet at home and taking a good look at the sizing guides listed on the brands' websites. You should also think about going half a size up from what you normally wear to give your toes somewhere to move as as they repeatedly strike the ground.
What Are the Best Running Shoes to Buy?
Like explained above, the best running shoe for you will depend entirely on how much you plan to run in them and on what type of surface. To make things easier, below each of the following best running shoes for men we’ll give suggestions for the type of runner and training they are best suited.
Before you even start looking at the options below, however, first decide why you’re running and how often you'll use them. If you're already hitting the roads on a regular basis, then by all means cop the more high-tech and supposedly faster kicks. If not, maybe start with something more forgiving and cushioned.
The best running shoes for 2019 list below includes offerings from well-known brands like Nike, adidas, and New Balance, as well as more running-specific and lesser known labels like HOKA ONE ONE and Brooks. No matter your running ability or experience, you'll find something for you below.
1. Nike Pegasus 36
Good for: Beginners, everyday training Key features: A full-length Zoom Air unit in the midsole, an engineered mesh upper with additional perforations to enhance breathability in high-heat areas such as the forefoot, a slimmer heel collar and tongue to reduce bulk for a more comfortable fit, and exposed Flywire cables to create a snug fit at high speeds. Release Date N/A (expected summer 2019) Price: N/A Buy: Nike
2. adidas Ultra Boost 19
Good for: Beginners, everyday training, recovery runs Key features: Optimized Boost with 20 percent more Boost in the midsole, Torsion Spring for enhanced support, Primeknit 360, and an updated 3D heel frame for adaptability and support. Release Date Available now Price: $180 Buy: adidas
3. HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 1
Good for: Long runs, racing Key features: This HOKA ONE ONE re-release of a much loved classic, the Clifton 1, features a lightweight and breathable upper, an EVA midsole for a springy ride, and the same blue and yellow color way it was originally released in. Release Date Available now Price: $150 Buy: HOKA ONE ONE
4. adidas Adizero Adios 4
Good for: Long runs, racing Key features: Mesh, textile and synthetic upper; Boost midsole; Continental rubber outsole for traction in both wet and dry conditions Release Date Available now Price: $140 Buy: adidas
5. Salomon Predict RA
Good for: Everyday training, beginners Key features: A molded heel and grooves in the midsole hug the foot for a good level of support and cushioning, flexible mesh upper, regular lacing system. Release Date Available now Price: 160 Buy: Salomon
6. Nike Gyakusou Turbo
Good for: Tempo runs, track workouts, flexing Key features: The high-tech sneaker comes with an out-there lacing toggle system, reflective details, a ZoomX midsole, and a traction-focused rubber outsole. Release Date Available now Price: $200 Buy: Nike
7. ASICS MetaRide
Good for: Long runs, recovery runs Key features: ASICS’ lightest ever Flytefoam midsole provides continuous and bouncy cushioning, circular knit upper designed to offer improved breathability and fit. Release Date Available Now Price: $250 Buy: ASICS
8. Nike Vaporfly Flyknit
Good for: Racing, track workouts, tempo runs Key features: Lightweight and breathable Flyknit uppers sit atop of the brand’s famed ZoomX foam and carbon fibre plate combo. Release Date Available now Price: $250 Buy: Nike
9. Saucony Kinvara 10
Good for: Experienced runners, everyday training, long runs Key features: The lightweight Kinvara 10 features a EVERUNTM topsole construction for enhanced energy return and cushioning, engineered mesh uppers, and a EVA+ midsole. Release Date Available now Price: $110 Buy: Saucony
10. New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Pursuit
Good for: Tempo runs, track workouts Key features: This well cushioned but not too clunky runner features a midsole created from a single piece of foam to provide a plush and natural ride. You’ll also find a synthetic mesh upper and a bootie construction for a sock-like fit. Release Date Available now Price: $110 Buy: New Balance
11. Skechers GOrun Razor 3 Hyper
Good for: Racing, tempo runs Key features: Durable translucent ripstop mesh upper ensures support and breathability, seamless non-stretch upper for added comfort, rubber outsole for durability and traction, responsive and ultra-lightweight HYPER BURST midsole. Release Date Available now Price: $135 Buy: Skechers
12. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%
Good for: Racing, Track workouts, Tempo Runs Key features: A full-length ZoomX foam unit, a reduced offset from 11 millimeters to 8 millimeters for a more stable feel, an overhauled traction system, and an upper made from a new fabric called Vaporweave. Release Date Available now Price: $275 Buy: Nike
13. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19
Good for: Everybody, every type Key features: A BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning dynamically adapts to your stride, an integrated “crash pad” delivers smooth heel-to-toe transitions, and the GuideRail system at the heel keeps excess movement in check to prevent knee injuries. Release Date Available now Price: $130 Buy: Brooks
14. New Balance 880v9
Good for: Everyday training, beginners Key features: The New Balance 880v9 is a no-nonsense and highly forgiving shoe that you can rely on for a comfortable fit, even if it’s not the fastest or flashiest on the market. Engineered mesh uppers, blown rubber forefoot. Release Date Available now Price: $125 Buy: New Balance
15. adidas Energy Boost
Good for: Everyday training, recovery runs Key features: Boost midsole for responsive and energy-returning cushioning, a four-way engineered stretch mesh upper for flexibility and breathability, and a TPU cage integrated into external heel counter for best fit in midfoot and heel. Release Date Available now Price: $160 Buy: adidas
