7 Best Road Running Shoes in 2023
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 road running shoes in our lab and on a variety of wear tests. If you want nothing but the best, see our top picks from five different categories of road shoes. From a versatile daily trainer and a budget shoe to a premium speed and racing option.
This guide dives into the nitty-gritty of road running shoes. Scroll down to learn about 3 primary things to consider in road shoes as well as runners’ FAQs.
How we test road running shoes
At RunRepeat we know the difference between good and great shoes.
How? Thanks to our independent shoe testing lab and a meticulous approach to reviewing running shoes:
- We use durometers, scales, calipers, a custom smoke machine, and even a saw to cut each shoe open and measure every aspect of it, from upper breathability to outsole durability.
- Our team of dedicated shoe fanatics runs 30-50 miles a week to test every new release from over 30 brands.
- Our system collates thousands of expert and user reviews from all over the web to reflect all these opinions in the final score.
- We purchase all running shoes with our own money to ensure transparency.
Our verdict is summarized in a CoreScore, a number from 0 to 100, which reflects how good a shoe is compared to 1500+ other road running shoes.
The best ones end up on this list.
Best road running shoes overall
What makes it the best?
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
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Best road running shoes for race
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Breathable
- Responsive
- Carbon rods
- Soft midsole
- Laces stay tight
- Price
Cons
- Runs narrow
- Unstable at slow speeds
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Best road running shoes for speedwork
What makes it the best?
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
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Best road running shoes with wide toebox
What makes it the best?
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
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Best stability road running shoes
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Stable but not harsh
- Cushy for long miles
- Awesome impact protection
- Supportive fit
- Glides you forward
- Lighter than it seems
- Built to last
Cons
- An oven for the feet
- Expensive
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Road running shoes with best cushioning
What makes it the best?
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
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Best road running shoes for long distance
What makes it the best?
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
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Comparison of the 7 best road running shoes
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Are road running shoes necessary?
You might be considering using your gym trainers or your trusty sneakers for road running. This may seem like a good idea at first, but keep in mind that these shoes are not specifically designed for you to run in.
Road running shoes are structured in such a way that your feet get the needed support and cushioning. These shoes are prepared for repetitive heel-to-toe movements as they provide you underfoot comfort.
On the other hand, training shoes are designed for comfort and stability on the sides of your foot. Because workouts involve a lot of side-to-side movements, these shoes are built with additional support in the lateral sides.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 (road running shoe) vs. Nike Metcon (cross-training shoe)
3 factors to consider when choosing a road running shoe
What is your goal?
One simple way of categorizing road running shoes is according to the purpose they serve the runner:
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Speed
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Distance
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Frequency
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Speed
If you want speed, have a look at speed training shoes or competition shoes (for a race day). Being lightweight is their primary advantage in helping you move faster. More premium models are equipped with high-rebound cushioning technologies like Nike ZoomX and Saucony PWRRUN. The elite ones also employ a carbon plate that helps to create a propelling ride.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 is one of the best-rated trainers for speed training and even race days.
Distance
Meanwhile, long-distance running shoes are packed with features to support longer runs. They are well-cushioned to keep the feet comfortable throughout the run. With a slightly wider forefoot, these shoes accommodate swelling with the prolonged duration of running.
Well-cushioned, maximalist running shoes are your best bet on half-marathon and beyond.
long-distance daily trainer (left) vs. marathon race shoe (right)
Frequency
One last classification of road shoes according to purpose is frequency. If you see yourself running very often, or using your running shoe a lot, you should get daily running shoes. The more cushioning the shoe has, the greater the comfort level.
Look for a comfortable, tried-and-tested daily cruiser with lasting cushioning and durability.
What is your foot type?
Another factor you need to consider in selecting your road running shoe is the type of gait that you have. Wearing a road running shoe with the correct arch support is also useful when traversing rough and rigid surfaces, like gravel.
If you have high arches, a neutral shoe will provide the right amount of support for you. This kind of road shoe has ample cushioning that adds comfort and prevents pain when running. The cushion also provides shock absorption, which is something your foot might lack.
On the other hand, if your feet are in any way overpronating, a good road running shoe maybe something in between stability or motion control shoe. Both these shoes aid the foot in correcting overpronation by providing varying degrees of arch support.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need separate shoes for trail running? Why?
Although there are many running shoes that claim to be versatile and useful for various terrains, it is still recommended to have separate pairs for road running and trail running. Here is our guide for choosing trail shoes.
Road shoe upper (left) is about lightness and breathability. Trail shoes (right) prioritize foot protection and durability.
The outsole rubber on road shoes (left) is only meant for asphalt or consistent hard-packed surface. Trail shoe outsoles (right) are more hard-wearing, grippy and have a special lug pattern for rocks, mud, snow, etc.
The surface you run on can affect the way your shoes wear. Some road running shoes may not be sturdy enough to handle the rough and rocky paths, and they may also not be grippy enough for mud and puddles.
Conversely, trail shoes may also pose more harm than good when used for road running.
