3 Best High-top Running Shoes in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us. Why trust us

For runners who need extra support and stability to their ankles, high top running shoes are a great option. High-top models are specifically designed for cool-looking time travelers and sci-fi fanatics (okay, just kidding, but why not?) They’re constructed to provide maximum ankle support to those who have special needs or suffering from plantar fasciitis and other conditions.

There’s actually a limited option when it comes to the high top design for road or trail runners. We have rounded up 10+ of them available in the market right now and selected our top picks for best overall and best for the trails.

Take a peek at our fantastic list of best high top running shoes, including lightweight models for road running and the most protective shoes for technical terrains.

How we test running shoes

Our goal at RunRepeat is to provide you with the latest updates and comprehensive reviews of your favorite brands and models, including high top designs for road and trail running. We put each shoe to the test on the field and in our testing lab. Our approach involves the following:

  • We purchase the shoes with our own money to ensure freedom from bias or brand loyalty.
  • We bring the shoes to our lab for closer inspection by cutting them to their essential parts.
  • We then weigh and measure 30+ parameters to give us all the comparable data we need.
  • We go outside and run wearing the shoe to see their actual performance, level of support, and comfort, among other factors. We run at least 30 to 50 miles for each pair of shoes for this road test.
  • We collect more useful information from other professional testers, shoe experts, and regular users.

To conclude the entire process, we rank each high top running shoe from 1 to 100 using our proprietary CoreScore system based on our aggregated data. This gives you a quick overview of how each shoe is rated compared to others.

Best high-top running shoes overall

On Cloud Hi
83
Good!

What makes it the best?

As a great partner for everyday active use, the On Cloud Hi supports runners from regular runs to slightly off-road scenarios. This new breed of On running shoe offers advanced technologies that meet the high standards of runners and athletes. This neutral running shoe is able to provide long-lasting comfort and protection in urban environments.

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Excellent cushioning
  • Stable ride
  • Easy to wear
  • Suitable for everyday wear
  • Keep the foot dry and warm
  • Stylish design
  • For winter runs

Cons

  • A bit narrow
  • Not breathable
Full review of On Cloud Hi

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Brown (2899806)
Eclipse Black (2899804)

Best high-top running shoes for trail

What makes it the best?

If you're constantly struggling to get through those long treadmill sessions during winter, meet your new best friend—the Cyklon Cross GTX. Its top-tier weatherproofing, solid lockdown and aggressive grip are the stuff winter dreams are made of. This snowmobile of a shoe takes you as deep into the trails as you please, without having to worry about nasty falls and frostbitten feet.

Pros

  • Keeps feet winter- and water-ready
  • Easy-to-use lacing system
  • Offers a precise lockdown
  • Immaculate grip
  • Accommodates crampons
  • Comfortable upper
  • Provides slight ankle support
  • Good ground feel while remaining protective
  • Ideal for mid- to long-distance trail runs
  • Incredibly durable
  • Cushioning does not harden in the cold

Cons

  • Quite a narrow toe box
  • Gaiter needs some getting used to
  • Lacks responsiveness
  • Expensive
Full review of La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX

Today's best price

Men
Women

Best high-top low drop running shoes

Pros

  • Superbly protective
  • Grippy everywhere
  • Above average durability
  • Stable on moderate terrain
  • Can be laced up with gloves on
  • Stunning design
  • Ideal for hiking too
  • Recycled materials

Cons

  • Hefty
  • Upper lacks breathability
  • Too expensive
  • Poor heel hold
Full review of Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro

Today's best price

Unisex
Any color
Black (H06572)
Core Black Ftwr White Turbo (GZ8879)

Comparison of the 3 best high-top running shoes

+ + Add a product
+ + Add a product
+ + Add a product
+ + Add a product
Best
CoreScore
Users rating
Experts
Best price
Ranking
Popularity
# of colorways
Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.