7 Best Neutral Running Shoes For Men in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Neutral Running Shoes For Men in 2023
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Whether you’ve just started your running journey or training for your first 42K, choosing the right shoe can make a big difference in your comfort, preparation, and performance for your upcoming race.

For men with neutral pronation, there are over 1,000 shoes to choose from. Neutral running shoes are designed for runners who do not overpronate or do not have an issue with excessive inward rolling of the foot. These are very common models that have no special stabilizers or guiding features added to the shoe.

With a majority of the products on market (around 85%) being neutral running shoes, buying the right one can be confusing and time-consuming. We can help you with that. We’ve rounded up our best picks for different categories after thoroughly examining each shoe in our lab and wear tests.

Best overall
PUMA Deviate Nitro 2 PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
$160 $120 From Amazon
Best for trail
Hoka Tecton X Hoka Tecton X
$200 $136 From Zappos
Best with wide toebox
Brooks Revel 5 Brooks Revel 5
$100 $70 From Zappos
Best cushioning
ASICS Novablast 3 ASICS Novablast 3
$140 From Zappos
Best for long distance
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0 Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0
$220 $84 From Amazon
Best with plush cushioning
Brooks Ghost 14 Brooks Ghost 14
$140 $75 From Amazon
Best for marathon
On Cloudmonster On Cloudmonster
$170 From Zappos
See all 1073 men's neutral running shoes

    How we test running shoes

    At RunRepeat, we’re constantly testing the latest neutral running shoes on the feet of our team of testers and in our own lab. We aim to give you our honest reviews without any taint of bias and brand loyalty. Our entire approach includes the following:

    • We buy all the men’s neutral running shoes on this list with our own money.
    • We bring the shoes to the lab and dissect each one to see what makes them tick. This means cutting them open and reducing them to their essential parts. We then weigh 30+ parameters from cushioning, durability, ventilation, and many more.
    • Our testers log at least 30 to 50 miles to test each model in a variety of running conditions.
    • We collect useful information from experts and regular users. We put them in a summary format.

    At the end of the process, we input our findings into the CoreScore system. The final rating will reflect how each pair of shoes is ranked from 0 to 100 as compared to other 1000+ men’s neutral running shoes. Our best picks make it to this list.

    Best men's neutral running shoes overall

    puma deviate nitro 2 test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-cut-in-half
    puma deviate nitro 2 lab test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-breathability-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-transparency-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-heel-stiffness
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-cushioning-test
    puma deviate nitro 2 midsole test
    puma deviate nitro 2 freezer test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-ride2
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole thickness
    puma deviate nitro 2 heel stack height
    puma deviate nitro 2 forefoot stack height
    puma deviate nitro 2 insole thickness
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-testing
    puma deviate nitro 2 forefoot max width
    puma deviate nitro 2 big toe2
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-flexibility-test2
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-flexibility-test1
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-road-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-stability
    puma deviate nitro 2 midsole width heel
    Puma%20Deviate%20Nitro%202%20-%20Reflective%20elements
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole test
    puma deviate nitro 2 from above
    puma deviate nitro 2 in pieces 2
    PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The PUMA Deviate Nitro is back with a significant update that makes an already great shoe even better. It’s really comfortable, which is not always the case for carbon-plated shoes, and it’s extremely versatile. As a result, we have a real do-it-all companion to take on the road for every run, not to mention the quality-price ratio, which basically makes it a no-brainer.

    Pros

    • Great all-rounder
    • Super-smooth and responsive ride
    • Plush cushioning
    • Comfy upper
    • Grippy outsole
    • Above average durability
    • Fairly priced

    Cons

    • Heavier than other similar shoes
    • Not many colors available
    Full review of PUMA Deviate Nitro 2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black (37680701)
    Azul (37680709)
    Black (37756701)
    Black (37680711)
    Sunset Glow (37680703)
    Gul (37680705)
    Bianco (37680704)
    $120
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  

    Best men's neutral running shoes for trail

    hoka tecton x rocky terrain
    hoka-tecton-x-cut-in-half
    hoka tecton x cut in pieces
    hoka tecton x outdoor_012
    hoka tecton x_036
    hoka-tecton-x-trail-runs
    hoka-tecton-x-torsional-flexibility
    hoka tecton x bottom
    hoka tecton x_013
    hoka tecton x lugs
    hoka-tecton-x-cushioning-test
    hoka tecton x heel stack height
    hoka-tecton-x-slow-motion
    hoka tecton x base
    hoka tecton x freezer
    hoka tecton x trail
    hoka tecton x stretch
    hoka tecton x_019
    hoka-tecton-x-carbon-plate
    hoka tecton x toebox width
    hoka tecton x lugs outsole
    hoka tecton x heel
    Hoka Tecton X
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Hoka Tecton X is Hoka's first carbon-plated trail running shoe. To justify the name, it just might have started a tectonic shift - that's how much it is loved by runners. It's positioned as a speed-ready, racing and training companion to the Hoka Speedgoat 5. Thanks to the dual-plated design, it shines at fast paces, especially the ultra ones. On top of this, it's a max-cushioned running shoe that keeps the feet protected without weighing them down.

    Pros

    • 2 carbon plates: very propulsive ride
    • Insanely stable
    • Looks fast and runs fast
    • Lightweight
    • Very cushioned & responsive
    • Worth the investment
    • Room for feet swelling
    • Grippy
    • No break-in
    • Vegan materials used

    Cons

    • Not for technical terrains
    • Might accumulate mud
    • Expensive
    Full review of Hoka Tecton X

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Persimmon Orange - Radiant Yellow (1123161PORY)
    Thyme/Fiesta (TFST)
    Blue (SBDP)
    $136
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $165
    See deal  

    Best men's neutral running shoes with wide toebox

    Brooks Revel 5 Parts
    Brooks-Revel-5-Features-2
    Brooks-Revel-5-Showoff
    Brooks-Revel-5-Saw
    Brooks-Revel-5-Reveal
    Brooks-Revel-5-Cut-Apart
    Brooks-Revel-5-360
    Brooks Revel 5
    Brooks Revel 5 Side Logo
    Brooks-Revel-5-Running-Side
    Brooks Revel 5 Heel Stack
    Brooks Revel 5 Weight
    Brooks Revel 5 Outsole Thickness
    Brooks Revel 5 Outsole
    Brooks-Revel-5-Running-Angled
    Brooks Revel 5 Upper
    Brooks-Revel-5-Fog
    Brooks Revel 5 Laces
    Brooks-Revel-5-Heel-Loop
    Brooks Revel 5 Heel Tab
    Brooks Revel 5 Freezer
    Brooks-Revel-5-Flex-Test
    Brooks Revel 5
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    An affordable trainer that's got the makings of advanced running shoes? Hello, Brooks Revel 5! It's a smooth and lively jack-of-all-trades that will keep your feet comfy and bouncing. It can push the pace, eat up half-marathon distances, and breeze through your daily runs!

    Pros

    • Fits like a dream
    • Accommodating stretchy upper
    • Efficient transitions
    • Surprisingly peppy
    • Laces stay tied tightly
    • Low to the ground
    • Durable construction
    • Great deal
    • Do-it-all shoe
    • Impressive weight
    • Breathable

    Cons

    • Not for long runs
    • No reflective details
    Full review of Brooks Revel 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black/Grey/Blue (053)
    Black/Ebony/Crystal Teal (091)
    Ebony/Alloy/Metallic (025)
    White/Oyster/India Ink (182)
    White/Peacoat/Blue Shadow (153)
    Titan/Peacoat/Flame (498)
    Pageant Blue/True Blue/White (403)
    White/Black (121)
    More colors
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  

    Men's neutral running shoes with best cushioning

    Asics Novablast 3 review
    Asics-Novablast-3-saw-cutting
    Asics Novablast 3 lab measurements
    Asics Novablast 3 heel stack
    Asics Novablast 3 forefoot stack
    Asics-Novablast-3-cushioning
    Asics Novablast 3 foam durometer softness
    Asics Novablast 3 freezer test
    Asics-Novablast-3-smoke-breathability-test
    Asics-Novablast-3-light-transparency-test
    Asics-Novablast-3-lightweight
    Asics-Novablast-3-springly-ride
    Asics-Novablast-3-flex-measurement
    Asics-Novablast-3-flex
    Asics-Novablast-3-stable-sole
    Asics-Novablast-3-stable-ride
    Asics Novablast 3 all arounder
    Asics Novablast 3 tongue
    Asics Novablast 3 tongue thickness
    Asics Novablast 3 gusseted tongue
    Asics Novablast 3 forefoot
    Asics Novablast 3 length
    Asics-Novablast-3-heel-stiffness
    Asics Novablast 3 traction
    Asics-Novablast-3-landing
    Asics Novablast 3 price
    Asics Novablast 3 lab tests
    ASICS Novablast 3
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    It's a comfy daily running shoe. It can go fast. It can go far. In the words of an expert, the Novablast 3 from ASICS "sets the standard for what a daily trainer should be." What's more, you can race in it in your next marathon too. Talk about versatility! And if you want a light shoe that won't drag you down, the ASICS Novablast 3 is the all-rounder you need.

    Pros

    • Super bouncy
    • Cushy feel for miles
    • Breathable
    • Light AF
    • Ready for cornering
    • Locks you in
    • Tongue stays in place
    • Grippy outsole
    • Mad durable
    • Sets the bar for a do-it-all shoe

    Cons

    • A tad too long
    • More expensive by $10
    Full review of ASICS Novablast 3

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black/Island Blue (1011B458004)
    Black/Amber (1011B458001)
    Cream/Fawn (1012B288101)
    White/Deep Ocean (1011B458100)
    Sheet Rock/Black (1011B458021)
    Black/White (1011B458002)
    White/Piedmont Grey (1012B288102)
    Electric Red/Midnight (1011B458600)
    More colors
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best men's neutral running shoes for long distance

    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Pieces
    Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 360
    Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 Saw
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Reveal
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20360
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Cutaway
    Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 Flex
    Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 Flex Test
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Freezer
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Width
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Side
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Weight
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Outsole
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Outsole%20Heel
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Upper%20Toe
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Upper%20Side
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Lacing
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Reflective
    Adidas%20Adizero%20Adios%20Pro%202%20Front%20Angle
    Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Top-tier race shoe from Adidas gets an update. In 2020 V1 won a ton of praise and world records with its carbon rod (and plate) design and Lightstrike Pro midsole. The super shoe category was once owned but just one brand but in 2021 there’s some serious contenders for best in show.

    Pros

    • Breathable
    • Responsive
    • Carbon rods
    • Soft midsole
    • Laces stay tight
    • Price

    Cons

    • Runs narrow
    • Unstable at slow speeds
    Full review of Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0

    Today's best price

    Unisex
    Any color
    Sonic Ink Screaming Green Ftwr White (FY4082)
    Legacy Indigo/Turbo/Sky Rush (GX3117)
    Pulse Lime/Real Teal/Flash Orange (GX3124)
    $84
    See deal  
    $165
    See deal  
    $220
    See deal  
    No stock  

    Best men's neutral running shoes with plush cushioning

    Brooks Ghost 14 Parts
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Features
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Running-Angled
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Saw
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Reveal
    Brooks Ghost 14 Ankle Collar
    Brooks Ghost 14 Thickness Tongue
    Brooks Ghost 14 Lacing Pattern
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Running-Side
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Flex-Test
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Cutting-Apart
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Compression
    Brooks Ghost 14 Width Forefoot
    Brooks Ghost 14 Weight
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Showoff
    Brooks Ghost 14 Thickness Outsole
    Brooks Ghost 14 Outsole Forefoot
    Brooks Ghost 14
    Brooks-Ghost-14-360
    Brooks Ghost 14 Upper Forefoot
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Fog
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Lace-Slip
    Brooks Ghost 14 vs 13
    Brooks Ghost 14 Reflective Back
    Brooks Ghost 14 No Reflective Side
    Brooks Ghost 14 Freezer
    Brooks Ghost 14
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Ghost 14 from Brooks really fits the bill as the shoe for all runners. It's a workhorse that's comfy enough for easy days, responsive for tempo sessions, and is heavy-duty to handle light trails. Overall, a no-fuss daily trainer that will work for all your runs!

    Pros

    • All about comfort!
    • True to size
    • Lots of padding
    • Smooth ride
    • Really stable, even on light trails
    • Great out of the box
    • Built for longevity (500 miles, easily)
    • Great grip

    Cons

    • Lacks breathability for hot summer days
    • Not the best for long distances
    Full review of Brooks Ghost 14

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Red (615)
    Primer Grey/Black/Alloy (039)
    Titan/Teal/Flame (488)
    Grey/Alloy/Oyster (067)
    Black/Blackened Pearl/Blue (056)
    Black/Blue/Nightlife (069)
    Grey/Blue/Red (078)
    Green Gecko/Blue/Black (310)
    More colors
    $75
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best neutral marathon running shoes for men

    On Cloudmonster outdoor_001
    On-Cloudmonster-saw%20cutting
    On Cloudmonster lab test
    On Cloudmonster outdoor heel stack
    On-Cloudmonster-cushioning
    On-Cloudmonster-softness-check
    On Cloudmonster outdoor_013
    On Cloudmonster lightweight
    On-Cloudmonster-springy
    On Cloudmonster traction
    On Cloudmonster wide base
    On-Cloudmonster-smoke
    On Cloudmonster outdoor_008
    On Cloudmonster toebox
    On Cloudmonster style
    On Cloudmonster durability
    On Cloudmonster price
    On Cloudmonster
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The On Cloudmonster is the brand's max-cushioned running shoe that "changed everyone's mind." From firm to forgiving, it's a new take that's perfect for daily training and long runs. True to its name, it has a "monstrous" amount of foam that will keep your feet protected and comfy all day. So much so that you can take it out on your walks as well.

    Pros

    • All-day comfort
    • Bouncy cushion
    • Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
    • Protective for long runs
    • Stable when cornering
    • Weighs less than it looks
    • Grippy on wet roads
    • Can work on light trails
    • Perfect lockdown
    • Built to last
    • Sustainable upper

    Cons

    • Firm for recovery days
    • Not for wide feet
    • Expensive
    Full review of On Cloudmonster

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Frost/Cobalt (6198653)
    Black (6199025)
    White (6198243)
    Eclipse/Turmeric (6198656)
    Grey (6198244)
    All White/Black (6198434)
    Frost Surf (6199023)
    Acai Aloe (6199027)
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $200
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 7 best neutral running shoes for men

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    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.

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