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.

Articles

The State of Trail Running 2022
The State of Trail Running 2022

This report covers trail running race participation from 1984 to 2022. It includes 15.6 million race results from 116.947 races in 127 countries. It’s the most extensive report on trail running partic[…]

The State of Running 2019
The State of Running 2019

This is the first mapping of Global running participation. The analysis covers 107.9 million race results from more than 70 thousand events from 1986 to 2018. This is by far the largest study of race[…]

Runner's Sex Guide
Runner's Sex Guide

Aerobic exercise is meant to work best for weight loss. Many would say that running is best for the purpose, and this opinion is well-grounded. However, we need to admit: there may be another way to g[…]

50 Shades of Plantar Fasciitis (Ultimate Guide)
50 Shades of Plantar Fasciitis (Ultimate Guide)

Your feet are marvellous. Each one has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles. Needless to say, the design by Mother Nature is complicated but perfect. Every part is crucial as it is. That is[…]

183,911 Running Shoe Prices Analysed
183,911 Running Shoe Prices Analysed

We have spent weeks analysing price patterns of running shoes. First, you will be presented to an infographic with the most important conclusions. Secondly, we dig deeper into the numbers. Feel free t[…]

Expensive Running Shoes Are Not Better Than More Affordable Running Shoes (Study)
Expensive Running Shoes Are Not Better Than More Affordable Running Shoes (Study)

Based on 134,867 reviews of 391 running shoes from 24 brands, this study compare the list price of running shoes with how well rated they are. The key conclusion is that expensive running shoes are no[…]

Marathon World Record Over Time (Infographic)
Marathon World Record Over Time (Infographic)

We have compiled information about the marathon world record over time, which is illustrated in the infographic below. As you see, we have done great improvements. In the graphic you will find 1) the[…]

Research: Women Are Better Runners Than Men
Research: Women Are Better Runners Than Men

Danish research have revealed intriguing results from the most exhaustive study of marathon results in history. The study included 1.815.091 marathon results from 131 marathons. The new research concl[…]

Marathon Statistics 2019 Worldwide (Research)
Marathon Statistics 2019 Worldwide (Research)

NOTE: This report has been updated. See the most recent report on the state of running 2019 here presented at The Global Running Conference hosted by the IAAF in China June 2019. It includes data back[…]

Top 12 Shoe Lacing Techniques [Images + Video]
Top 12 Shoe Lacing Techniques [Images + Video]

We spent 284 hours researching and testing lacing techniques for running shoes. Here, you’ll find our best recommendations. Enjoy.  This guide works for running shoes, hiking boots & hiking shoes,[…]

Guides

Are new versions of running shoes even better?
Are new versions of running shoes even better?

Are new versions better or worse? Should you upgrade to the newest version which is typically more expensive? Let’s find out.  The Reddit group r/RunningShoeGeeks helped come up with this idea. Check[…]

Data Analysis: When Is the Best Time To Buy Running Shoes?
Data Analysis: When Is the Best Time To Buy Running Shoes?

We’ve tracked 12 million price points on more than 2000 pairs of running shoes and 5000 sneakers over 7 years from +200 retailers to give you the scientific answer to when is the best time to buy.  Mo[…]

Why you cannot trust “experts” and top-10 lists
Why you cannot trust “experts” and top-10 lists

Tl;dr: We believe editors cherry-pick popular shoes to earn more. You should not trust top-10 lists as the shoes picked are rarely the truly best running shoes.  The purpose is not to discredit review[…]

Best Hoka running shoes
Best Hoka running shoes

If you want a pair of shoes with bottomless cushioning, Hoka is the right direction to take. With its highly popular Clifton and Bondi series, this is one of the go-to brands for extra cosy daily trai[…]

Best running shoes for hiking
Best running shoes for hiking

If you’re planning to dabble in the murky world of hiking or running the trails, why pay the price of two pairs of shoes when you can have just one? Yes, you read it right. There’s an array of options[…]

Best running shoes for wide feet
Best running shoes for wide feet

Runners with wide-foot problems struggle to find that perfect, comfortable fit. If your toes need enough room to spread, don’t worry. In this special feature for runners with wide feet, we have you co[…]

Best Nike Flyknit running shoes
Best Nike Flyknit running shoes

Introduced in 2012, the Nike Flyknit running shoes revolutionised the world of running. Its state-of-the-art integral knitting technique was something that was never seen before. It was truly innovati[…]

Best low drop running shoes
Best low drop running shoes

The “drop” in road or trail running shoes refers to the difference in height between the forefoot (or toe box) and the heel section. The higher the “drop” in a shoe, the steeper the angle will be betw[…]

Best Gore-Tex running shoes
Best Gore-Tex running shoes

Gore-Tex running shoes are a great option if you live in a region that rains a lot of time in a year, or in a snowy climate where snowflakes seep in with every step. A dependable Gore Tex-designed sho[…]

Best comfortable running shoes
Best comfortable running shoes

When it comes to running shoes, comfort is king. Whether you’re a high mileage, daily runner, or weekend warrior, we all want that running shoe that delivers great comfort while running. Whatever your[…]

Best running shoes for low arches
Best running shoes for low arches

Running longer miles is not easy – especially for low-arch or flat-footed runners wearing the wrong shoes. If you’re one of them, there are key factors to look for in running shoes that may help you f[…]

Best triathlon running shoes
Best triathlon running shoes

From quick-lace capability, comfort, durability, and performance-driven technologies, the best triathlon running shoes need to have it all to meet the high volume of training and the actual racing (an[…]

Best snow running shoes
Best snow running shoes

While other people stop and go home because the weather decides to snow, you continue to brave the elements and keep putting one foot in front of the other to reach your goals. For dedicated runners l[…]

Best On trail running shoes
Best On trail running shoes

Whether you're into short or long-distance trail running, or just want a reliable everyday trail companion, the Swiss-engineered trail shoes from On are definitely a good steal. Praised by many in the[…]

Best On road running shoes
Best On road running shoes

Famous for its uniquely designed platform, a patented cushioning technology that delivers softer landings and firm toe-offs, On running shoes have become a new favourite among runners, and even world-[…]

Best Merrell trail running shoes
Best Merrell trail running shoes

Over the years, the Merrell trail running shoes have been very popular among off-road adventurers and trail runners in the world. In fact, its Moab model has been the most sold trail boot in the world[…]

Best Merrell running shoes
Best Merrell running shoes

Known for their excellent durability, versatility, and performance-driven design, Merrell running shoes have become a favourite among ultra-distance runners and regular outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whet[…]

Best Altra trail running shoes
Best Altra trail running shoes

From your local trails to rugged technical terrains, if you need a truly reliable and comfortable trail partner, you can’t go wrong with Altra. It’s easily one of our best picks when it comes to runni[…]

Best Salomon running shoes
Best Salomon running shoes

After 20 years since the very first launch of its iconic trail shoe the Raid Rail, the Salomon brand has continued to expand and gain the trust of the off- and on-road runners and adventurers. From am[…]

Best Saucony trail running shoes
Best Saucony trail running shoes

Whether running at your local park or competing for your first ultra, trail running offers an awesome break from the monotony of the flat, paved roads. Of course, when you’re planning to conquer rugge[…]

Best Nike cheap running shoes
Best Nike cheap running shoes

You don’t need to break the bank to add a new pair of Nike running shoes to your rotation. Nike offers economical versions of the premium models without compromising too much on function and cutting-e[…]

Best Nike long distance running shoes
Best Nike long distance running shoes

Every model of Nike long-distance running shoes on this list accommodates various running styles, training or racing conditions, and budget. The perfect pair of shoes for an experienced marathoner wil[…]

Best Nike road running shoes
Best Nike road running shoes

Majority of Nike running shoes available in the market today are designed for road runners. Thus, buying the perfect pair that suits one’s training and racing needs can be pretty overwhelming to some,[…]

Best running shoes for beginners
Best running shoes for beginners

They say great things come from small beginnings. That said, don't confuse "small beginnings" for a rough start. No, you can be in your best form as a freshman if you sport the finest running shoes fo[…]

Best running shoes for underpronation
Best running shoes for underpronation

Are you tired of compensating your gait to prevent hurting your arches and ankles? If so, the time is now to wear the best underpronation running shoes. We've tested over a hundred pairs of these gait[…]

Best running shoes for supination
Best running shoes for supination

Supination happens when runners put more stress on the outer part of their feet during landing. Or in simpler terms, it’s when the feet tend to roll outward.  Unlike overpronation (feet roll inward),[…]

Best competition running shoes
Best competition running shoes

With speed written all over them, the best running shoes for racing are light, snappy, and crazy responsive. With so many competition running shoes to choose from, it can be a challenge to pick the ri[…]

Best speed training running shoes
Best speed training running shoes

Speed is a huge part of running. Whether you’re running easy or fast, your running shoes should match your pace.  For runners who want to set PBs, there’s no better option than dedicated speed trainer[…]

Best daily running shoes
Best daily running shoes

For days where you like to take it easy, you can rely on daily running shoes to keep your feet pampered from lace-up to the last mile.  With more than five hundred daily trainers on the market, we’re[…]

Best ultra running shoes
Best ultra running shoes

Finishing an ultra is a great feat. And behind every successful run is an excellent ultra running shoe that has ample cushioning, support, and grip packed in a lightweight shoe.  We know it’s a tediou[…]

Best running shoes for orthotics
Best running shoes for orthotics

Running shoes for orthotics tend to be wide. Given the number of wide-running shoes on the market, choosing can be a drag. We took the liberty of coming to your aid by giving you an in-detailed review[…]

Best Brooks trail running shoes
Best Brooks trail running shoes

Brooks has made a name in the running world. It’s given us some of the best road running shoes, and it sure didn’t let us down with its trail shoes.  Among all the running shoes we’ve tested, nothing[…]

Best running shoes for heavy men
Best running shoes for heavy men

Running shoes for big guys have loads of cushion to keep the feet protected. And more importantly, they're built durable.  Whether you're running on pavement or on the trails, these shoes can take a b[…]

Best winter running shoes
Best winter running shoes

As opposed to regular running shoes, running shoes for winter is more protective and warm. And to combat slick surfaces, they are also much grippier.  It’s not easy to filter out the best of the best[…]

Best Nike walking shoes
Best Nike walking shoes

Diehard Swoosh fans who are in need of comfy and supportive kicks for walking need not look far. With over 50 walking shoes that got to our hands and feet, you can expect to find the best here in our[…]

Best Running spikes for sprints
Best Running spikes for sprints

Fast and light — these are the marks of a good sprint spike. With so many track and field sprinting shoes possessing these, finding the right pair can be a challenge.  But don't fret. We've done the j[…]

Best running shoes for walking
Best running shoes for walking

It’s undisputed — running shoes have the best cushion not just for marathons but also for your daily casual walks. If you want to have just one shoe to rock your daily jogs and stay comfortable all da[…]

Best running shoes for heel strike
Best running shoes for heel strike

Choosing the right running shoe for heel strikers can be quite tricky. It’s not just a question of which model has less or more cushion. It’s a combination of many things like drop, rearfoot support,[…]

Best ASICS trail running shoes
Best ASICS trail running shoes

ASICS is a well-known brand among runners. One of the standout features the brand’s running shoes possess is stability. And if you’re after supportive trail shoes that have all the impact protection y[…]

Best Nike ZoomX running shoes
Best Nike ZoomX running shoes

Nike has nothing to prove. It’s already one of the strongest brands in the running scene. But as it enters the world of super foams, it’s made itself even stronger.  The Nike ZoomX foam is the brand’s[…]

Best waterproof trail running shoes
Best waterproof trail running shoes

It’s known to many - the trails aren’t the friendliest. Apart from jagged rocks and roots, there are also some stream crossings and other wet conditions you have to endure.  And when faced with these,[…]

Best waterproof running shoes
Best waterproof running shoes

Running outdoors is not always sunny and warm. There are also days when you have to deal with rain and moisture; hence, the creation of waterproof running shoes.  These shoes are made with a Gore-Tex[…]

Best Salomon trail running shoes
Best Salomon trail running shoes

If you want to venture into the great outdoors, it’s unquestioned - Salomon is THE brand for trail runners. Salomon trail shoes are not only extremely durable — they’re ready to eat up the gnarly terr[…]

Best Mizuno running shoes
Best Mizuno running shoes

Mizuno has always been known for its durable, long-distance running shoes. But because we know that different runners need different shoes, we’ve selected some of the best choices from different categ[…]

Best PUMA running shoes
Best PUMA running shoes

The cat didn’t come to play. PUMA is lesser known than other brands in the running world, but it sure isn’t lesser when it comes to performance. Whether it’s on the road, trail, daily training, or rac[…]

Best Nike trail running shoes
Best Nike trail running shoes

Nike is a household name in the running world. Although it’s better known for its road running shoes, Nike doesn’t cut corners when it comes to its trail shoes. They’re sturdy, traction-ready, stable,[…]

Best On running shoes
Best On running shoes

They may be new to the running scene, but On running shoes have got what it takes to compete against established brands like Adidas and Nike. Whether it’s for the road or the trail, these running mode[…]

Best Brooks running shoes
Best Brooks running shoes

With a "Run Happy" motto, Brooks believes that there is no good or bad running shoe. Each runner picks the right shoe for them based on their preferences and the running experience they want to achiev[…]

Best road running shoes
Best road running shoes

The number of road running shoes is three times larger compared to trail running shoes. Thus, buying a pair can be an overwhelming task, especially if you are new to running. We have tested over 100 r[…]

Best running shoes
Best running shoes

Are you looking for a comfortable all-arounder? A supportive shoe for overpronation? Or a speedy racer for a new personal best? There is no ONE best shoe for everybody. We have tested over 100 running[…]

Best ASICS running shoes
Best ASICS running shoes

ASICS is a big name in the world of running shoes. With such an extensive collection of ASICS shoes to choose from, there are options for all types of runners. Whether you need a comfortable cruiser f[…]

Best New Balance running shoes
Best New Balance running shoes

New Balance has become a go-to brand not only for stylish lifestyle footwear but running shoes as well. Given how easy it is to get lost in all those FreshFoams and FuelCells, we are here to narrow do[…]

Best Adidas running shoes
Best Adidas running shoes

Adidas is one of the top brands in the athletic gear scene and continues to be a popular choice for running shoes. To help you navigate the brand’s extensive selection of running footwear, we have sel[…]

Best stability running shoes
Best stability running shoes

Stability running shoes are helpful in providing runners the additional arch support, especially if they feel that the lack thereof is preventing a natural and comfortable movement. As a beginner, it[…]

Best Nike running shoes
Best Nike running shoes

Nike needs no introduction. The brand offers some of the widest selections of highly-rated running shoes for both beginners and seasoned runners. We are here to help you navigate this massive selectio[…]

Best long distance running shoes
Best long distance running shoes

Going for anything longer than a 10K calls for the most reliable, comfortable, and durable running shoe. As the stress on your body increases, so do the demands from a pair of running shoes. We have t[…]

Best trail running shoes
Best trail running shoes

We’ve tested more than 100 pairs of trail running shoes to help you find the best of the best. Some trail shoes are created for the harshest off-road challenges like rocks, mud, snow, and branches. Th[…]

Lab tests and in-depth reviews

Vibram Furoshiki
90
Great!
Brooks Hyperion GTS
91
Superb!
Hoka Stinson 7
86
Good!
Brooks Divide 4
82
Good!
Skechers GO WALK 6
91
Great!
Adidas Adizero Adios 8
89
Great!
Adidas Adistar 2.0
85
Good!
On Cloudrift
74
Bad!
On Cloudnova Form
90
Great!
On Cloud 5 Push
88
Good!
Hoka Transport
82
Good!
Adidas Ultraboost Light
89
Great!
Saucony Guide 16
86
Good!
Saucony Peregrine 13
86
Good!
Saucony Ride 16
86
Good!
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3
83
Good!
Kailas Phantom 3.0
81
Good!
Kailas Fuga YAO
81
Good!
Kailas Fuga DU
79
Decent!
ASICS Gel Contend 8
80
Decent!
ASICS GT 2000 11
88
Great!
ASICS Gel Nimbus 25
89
Great!
Skechers GOwalk Joy - Ecstatic
92
Superb!
Altra Lone Peak 7
83
Good!
Allbirds Tree Runners
94
Superb!
ASICS Gel Kayano Lite 3
87
Great!
Altra VIA Olympus
84
Good!
Mizuno Wave Rider 26
88
Great!
On Cloudgo
87
Great!
NOBULL Runner+
91
Superb!
ASICS Magic Speed 2
89
Great!
Hoka Bondi 8
84
Good!
Altra Olympus 5
81
Good!
ASICS Novablast 3
91
Superb!
ASICS Gel Kayano 29
88
Great!
Mizuno Wave Horizon 6
91
Superb!
Nike Renew Ride 3
73
Bad!
Saucony Endorphin Edge
83
Good!
Nike Zoom Fly 5
80
Decent!
Hoka Mach 5
89
Great!
ASICS GT 1000 11
85
Good!
ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
90
Superb!
Altra Torin 6
79
Decent!
Nike Flex Experience Run 11
76
Bad!
Kailas Fuga EX 2
85
Good!
Kailas Fuga Elite 2
81
Good!
Kailas Flythorn Air 2.0
81
Good!
Kailas Fuga Pro 4
87
Great!
Kailas Fuga EX BOA
81
Good!
NOBULL Ripstop Runner
88
Great!
On Cloud 5 Waterproof
88
Good!
Allbirds Wool Runners
93
Superb!
Saucony Tempus
89
Great!
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2
86
Good!
ASICS Metaspeed Sky+
87
Great!
Nike Pegasus Trail 4
88
Great!
On Cloudnova
89
Great!
On Cloudaway
81
Decent!
Altra Escalante 3
81
Good!
Reebok Lite 3
80
Decent!
Saucony Xodus Ultra
86
Good!
ASICS GlideRide 3
91
Superb!
ASICS Gel Cumulus 24
89
Great!
On Cloud 5
89
Great!
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
88
Great!
ASICS Gel Excite 9
81
Good!
On Cloudvista
82
Good!
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GTX
87
Great!
On Cloudmonster
90
Superb!
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3
87
Great!
Adidas Duramo 10
83
Good!
Altra Timp 4
77
Bad!
Nike Terra Kiger 8
83
Good!
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12
87
Great!
Adidas Questar
82
Good!
Saucony Guide 15
87
Great!
Brooks Launch 9
88
Great!
Brooks Glycerin 20
89
Great!
Allbirds Tree Dasher
91
Superb!
Saucony Ride 15
88
Great!
ASICS Gel Pulse 13
79
Decent!
Saucony Kinvara 13
88
Great!
Altra Rivera 2
83
Good!
Hoka Tecton X
91
Superb!
Hoka Speedgoat 5
88
Great!
Hoka Carbon X 3
80
Decent!
Saucony Triumph 20
87
Great!
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
89
Great!
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
89
Great!
Adidas 4DFWD
91
Superb!
PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite
91
Superb!
Adidas Runfalcon 2.0
80
Decent!

Adidas Runfalcon 2.0: Budget-friendly daily trainer Featuring minimal updates from the older model, the Runfalcon 2.0 continues to deliver comfort and style in a lightweight package. A daily trainer f[…]

Adidas Fluidflow 2.0
80
Decent!
Nike Wildhorse 7
88
Great!
NOBULL Knit Runner
91
Superb!
Hoka Bondi SR
85
Good!
Mizuno Wave Rider 24
90
Superb!

{section_summary} {section_positive} {section_negative} Who should buy Mizuno Wave Rider 24 You should buy Mizuno Wave Rider 24 if you are looking for a neutral daily trainer prefer a stiff ride, and[…]

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8
88
Great!
Nike Zoom Rival Fly 2
81
Good!

{section_positive} {section_negative} {section_summary} Nike Zoom Rival Fly 2 review The Zoom Rival Fly 2 is less cushioned than the Pegasus 36, so I thought that I wouldn't enjoy it as much, but this[…]

Salomon Sense Ride 3
90
Superb!

{section_summary} {section_positive} {section_negative} Who should buy the Salomon Sense Ride 3 Ideal if you want an all-around trail shoe, and you run mostly on dry surfaces. It’s stiff! It’s great f[…]

Adidas Runfalcon
80
Decent!
On Cloud
89
Great!
On Cloudrunner
87
Great!

Reviews

Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
83
Good!
Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX
81
Good!
Merrell Nova 3
86
Good!

The Nova 3 is a pair of trail running shoes that takes us through short and middle distances without sacrificing a comfy ride. For a pair of trail runners that keeps feet cool and fatigue-free right o[…]

Merrell Vapor Glove 6
85
Good!

The sixth iteration of the Vapour Glove returns with a touch more protection to go with its barefoot feel. Though originally intended for the trails, we found this Merrell minimalist runner to be just[…]

Hoka Torrent 3
80
Decent!

‘Propulsive and responsive’ is the best way we can describe our strides in the Torrent 3. These trail runners from Hoka are exactly what we need to take on the fast and short trails in the[…]

Brooks Catamount 2
88
Great!

Our speedy runs on technical terrains are a piece of cake with the Catamount 2. With top-tier construction from top to bottom ensuring a snug and well-supported fit, these trail runners not only look[…]

Brooks Levitate Stealthfit 5
83
Good!

The Levitate Stealthfit 5 from Brooks is a road running shoe that we recommend best for short to mid-distance runs. It's perfect for cruising along the pavement if you want your feet to feel comfy at[…]

Salomon Pulsar Trail
84
Good!

The Pulsar Trail from Salomon is the brand's take on a mid-range, do-it-all trail running shoe. With this shoe, we found that we could tackle any terrain and any distance at any pace. It comes to life[…]

Adidas 4D
84
Good!
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
88
Great!

The Primus Lite III from Vivobarefoot is a barefoot running shoe that we discover to put the feet's health in mind. Through its minimal design, it encourages us to use and strengthen our feet more whe[…]

Brooks Launch GTS 9
87
Great!

The Launch GTS 9 from Brooks is the brand's official replacement for its Ravenna series—a stability shoe line for faster runs. We discovered that it's energetic; whether you're going fast or slo[…]

Merrell Agility Peak 4
84
Good!

We found the Merrell Agility Peak 4 to work wonderfully when we're just not sure what lies ahead on the trails! We love the colorways, and the wilder they are, the more compliments we get. A letdown o[…]

Merrell Trail Glove 6
79
Decent!

The Trail Glove is a famous Merrell minimalist shoe line that gives us a barefoot-like experience. The minimal cushioning allows us to feel the trail while encouraging our feet to move naturally. Bear[…]

Hoka Mach
88
Great!

Although we admittedly fell in love with the Hoka Mach, we could not help but compare it in favour of its predecessor, the Clayton. We admired the shoe's design and structural elements, and we also fo[…]

Hoka Gaviota
85
Good!

As a motion control shoe, the Hoka Gaviota worked well for us, as we wanted to have a mix of cushioning and support. For us, it absolutely looked appealing and it generally performed well. We felt tha[…]

Hoka Arahi
87
Great!

The Hoka Arahi is a lightweight running shoe that we found ideal for road running. It is equipped with the necessary technologies that we confirmed to provide dynamic stability and a responsive ride.[…]

La Sportiva Mutant
87
Great!

The La Sportiva Mutant is an aggressive trail running shoe that’s versatile and stable. We found them to be ideal for off-road trails, racing, and mountain running. With the stability, protectio[…]

Salomon XA Pro 3D
90
Superb!

The Salomon XA Pro 3D is a trail running shoe that’s built with some of the most impressive technologies. We found the upper to be incredibly dependable, while the midsole offers a very comforta[…]

Nike Flyknit Racer
87
Great!

The Nike Flyknit Racer is perfect for runners who want to outrun the competition. It's a racing flat that shines in 5Ks all the way to marathons. With its responsive ride, we think that it's also a gr[…]