Yahoo News 28 best women's running trainers to shop, picked by our Editors
The need for the right running shoes for women is more important than ever before with over 3,111,800 women across England regularly running. In fact, according to Strava's 2021 report, among runners who joined the app in 2020, almost twice as many set new personal bests in 2021 compared with the previous year. Basically, people are getting out there more regularly, more frequently and loving it.
So if you've been joining the masses in 2022, finding the right running trainers suited to you is just as important as correct form and technique. (And, yes. That includes getting your running warm-up and cool-down done, too. No skipping!)
Why are good running shoes so important?
Making sure you have the right running shoes is a point certified strength coach and footwear expert Emma Kirk-Odunubi stresses, especially because different runs demand different footwear:
‘As your distance increases many people generally want to increase the cushioning level of their shoe. For (postponed) half marathon or marathon runners, having greater cushioning over longer distances can have its benefits.’
But we get it: good running shoes are an investment and the price tag can often exceed what you'd budgeted to spend on new run-togs. With that in mind, we've rounded up a mix of the best and spiffy new women's running trainers so you can shop to your feet and budget's content.
What to look for in running shoes for women
With this in mind, it’s time for WH edit of the best women's trainers money can buy.
Cushioning: This helps the ground feel softer underfoot and encourages ground-contact stability.
Weight: Lighter shoes typically have less cushioning, giving an increased rebound off the ground. They're designed for speedy splits and powerful runs. For longer distances choose heavier shoes with more cushioning.
Drop: This is the difference in the cushioning level from the rear foot to the forefoot. The lower the drop, the more conducive the shoe is for a speedy running style. Speed shoes will tend to have around a 4mm drop.
28 Best Running Shoes for Women
Best cushioned running shoes
1. HOKA Bondi X
Best for: Long-distance hard surface runs
Weight: 257g
Drop: 5mm
How much? Was £180 Now £99.99
The newest addition to the Bondi family, the Bondi X is a springy, cushioned dream. It has the softest foam your feet will ever feel (sounds pretty tempting, right?) and offers a smooth, balanced ride. Compared to the Bondi 7 style that came before, the X's midsole has a carbon fibre plate which provides a stiffer step through, increasing support and efficient movement per stride.
2. Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Women's Running Shoe
Best for: Everyday runs
Weight: 266g
Drop: 9.5mm
How much? £138
A major moment for our faves Lululemon, the Blissfeel is the brands first ever running shoe released earlier this year, followed by the Strongfeel which is designed for training. The Blissfeel prioritises comfort, offering a tailor-made fit and feel with a moisture wicking liner, plus a padded tongue and heel which wrap your feet in comfy support. Typical of Lululemon, they boast a stylish design with a tough, breathable mesh upper, and so many beautiful colour combos to choose from.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V3 Road Running Shoe
Best for: Beginner distance running
Drop: 8mm
Weight: 200g (approx.)
How much? £45
Cushioned, stable, lightweight – three words we love to hear when it comes to trainers that'll more than do the job. A running staple, New Balance Fresh Foam is a style that's been around for aeons – fortunately for us, they just keep making it better. This particular style has enough support for long-distance runs whilst the foam and cushioning helps you pick up speed too.
4. adidas Ultraboost 22s
Best for: propulsive runs
Drop: 10mm
How much?
Was £165Now £117.15
Boasting an improved female fit, with a narrower heel that has less slip and avoids those pesky blisters, and a bouncier step with lower instep curve, adidas have spent real time and energy into making sure the Ultraboost 22s shows a true performance improvement on their predecessor 21s. Testing hundreds of prototypes, they re-engineered the outsole, too, for their smoothest ride yet.
The iconic cushioned running shoe is made with adidas' foot-hugging PRIMEKNIT that's both supportive and flexible. If it's propulsion you're looking for, these are your friend. Featuring their magic BOOST midsole, you're guaranteed added bounce with every step thanks to the incred energy return.
5. Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2
Best for: Injury-prone runners
How much?
Was £164.95Now £125
One of Nike's most popular running shoes for women, and one of their most tested shoes, which is enough to convince us of their superstar running status. One of the things that makes these shoes so reliable and special? According to the brand it's the lightweight ZoomX foam, supporting the three phases of a runners stride: allowing for flexibility, comfort and cushioning as your foot lifts off and hits the ground. 'Injury plagues runners of all levels and it can be something that stops people from joining the sport or rejoining post-injury,' says Brett Holts, VP of Nike Running.
The reliable design has plenty of springy responsiveness, plus the wider 'rocker' shaped forefoot offers more stability too. The soft padding at the tongue and cushioning around the heel ensure these have a secure and comfy fit for long time wear.
6. HOKA Carbon X 3
Best for: Gaining speed
Weight: 188g
Drop: 5mm
How much?
Was £170Now £89.99
Keeping all the loved elements of the Carbon X2 - a comfortable stack height and the same responsive carbon fibre plate, the Carbon X3 women's shoe are also 10g lighter, boast a premium, performance knit upper and have a new energised foam midsole, so transitions promise to be even more propulsive. If you are after some speed these are a winner.
7. Asics Novablast 2 LE
Best for: Neutral runners who want extra propulsion
Weight: Lightweight
How much? £135
If you've ever wanted to feel like you're running on a mini-trampoline – in a brilliant way – these Asics Novablast will do that and then some. The propulsive nature of the foam midsole means for every step you put in will be energised, cushioned and keep you trucking on when the miles rack up. Plus, the Novablast's second version offers a fine tuned cushioning and wider base for a softer, more balanced landing.
Shave seconds off your 5k, stay cool with a breathable upper or just enjoy the feeling of running on more cushion than you thought possible.
8. Hoka Clifton 8
Best for: Long distance training
Weight: 215g
Drop: 5mm
How much? £129.99
Another workhorse, the Clifton 8 from Hoka are a dreamy neutral, cushioned shoe that gives you consistent support without weighing you down. Perfect for taking on longer distances, they offer a stable ride as you pound out the miles. The updated upper is made with engineered mesh and the new midsole is super light with a nice responsive bounce. Al in all they'e an incredibly comfortable running shoe suited for miles and miles of marathon training without feeling the effects of that time on your feet.
You can wear them for any distance but they’re not designed to give you as much bang for your buck if you’re trying to knock out a 5km PB. That said, they’re a great all-rounder.
9. New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13
Best for: Stability
Weight: 243g
Drop: 10mm
How much? £140
The 860 is known as New Balance's stability running shoe, designed for those dedicated runners amongst us who hit the pavement hard everyday without fail. The latest release in the series is the v13, which heightens that cushiony experience of the fresh foam X - now incorporating bio based and recycled materials in their midsole, fyi - by adding a supportive medial post. It's a reliable running shoe built to last over many runs, without losing its enhanced comfort. Oh and the cute reflective details will catch the light as you move so you're ready for dark evening winter runs.
10. Under Armour HOVR Phantom 3 Launch
Best for: Energy returns
Weight: 260g
Drop: 9mm
How much?
Was £120Now £70.80
We love a sock-like fit running shoe. Under Armour's stylish Phantom design offers that on and off ease with an ultra soft and stretchy knit upper, matched in it's comfort levels by the Speedform 2.0 sockliner. The HOVR cushioning is what makes these such a responsive shoe propelling you forward with every step. An ideal shoe for speed training, that's super breathable and supportive.
11. On Running Cloudflow
Best for: 10km race training
Weight: 235g
Drop: 6mm
How much? £130
A newer ON Running shoe, the Cloudflow, combines their Helion™ super foam along with a curved heel for 'better hold, durability and comfort.'
Basically, they're going to feel light on the top of your foot, super cushioned underneath and cool thanks to the ventilated mesh. The new rubber traction base will also keep you more stable on slippery wet roads.
12. Brooks Hyperion Tempo
Best for: Designed for training
Weight: 189.9g
Drop: 8mm
How much? £140
The lightweight DNA Flash foam that makes up the Hyperion Tempo's midsole is nitrogen injected - sounds pretty cool, huh? It's engineered from ultra-lightweight materials and allows for optimum energy return, meaning this shoe is light, responsive and offers mega soft cushioning, all of which softens the impact during an intense workout and run. The stretch woven upper is built to be breathable too, for those hot summer day runs.
This women's trainer will have you moving faster and more lightly - which sounds like a dream, right?
13. Veja Condor 2 Alveomesh
You probs know them as the trendy brand that make the white trainers you love, but did you know Veja make running shoes too? The Condor 2's are cushioned, comfy and the perfect partner for those easy weekend runs and recovery sessions. They look, feel and perform the part, thanks to the L-foam cushioned technology. Plus, they have full transparency on where they source every part of the shoe from, to help calm any qualms about sustainability or sourcing. We love? We love.
'These shoes are the perfect balance between style and substance,' says WH's former Senior Fitness Writer, Morgan Fargo. 'They're cushioned and supportive – perfect for the endless park loops I've been doing – as well as being breathable, something that makes them perfect no matter the ever-changing forecast.'
14. Skechers Max Cushioning Elite
Best for: Comfort on daily runs
Drop: 6mm
How much? £110
The Max Cushioning Elite shoe from Skechers adds extra comfort to your daily runs without weighing you down in the process. Their lightweight engineered upper lets tired feet breathe as they work with an added air-cooled insole, plus an ultra-cushioned midsole for a responsive bounce. Cushioned, lightweight and breathable, these gems are a reliable choice for just over £100.
15. New Balance FuelCell Propel v3
Best for: Competition runs
Weight: 200g
How much? £110
If you are looking for that extra motivation with every stride, then the Fuelcell Propel's are the running shoes for you. The clue is concealed in the name. Their bouncy foam midsole delivers a high rebound and has that propulsive feel when you step, helping drive you forward and maintain speed. You can rely on this pair for competition runs and racing.
16. Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next %
Best for: Speed training
How much?
Was £179.95Now £107.97
Designed to go the distance, this Nike iteration of the cult-followed Next % trainers are the everyday companion for comfort and durability. The visible Zoom Air unit (the round disc) gives springy cushioning while the Nike React technology in the heel is lightweight to help keep your stride as efficient as poss.
Be aware these are designed specifically for shorter 'tempo' runs. Hence the name. If you're looking for an all-rounder, head down to the Nike Invincibles, which has it's own hefty discount, too. Yessss.
Best 'smart' running shoe for women
17. Women's UA
Best for: Neutral runners who like to track their stats
Weight: 227g
Drop: 8mm
How much? £150
Okay, so these clever pair of running shoes from Under Armour comes with a personal running coach when you connect them to the UA MapMyRun™, analysing your metrics by tracking your stride length, cadence and pace and coaching you in real-time. As for the shoes, these speed-friendly kicks have a 3D-molded sockliner offering enhanced support hugging the foot as well as responsive cushioning giving you that energy return to propel each step. They have a water repellant treated upper and reflective detailing, both ideal for the upcoming dark, wet weather runs on the horizon this winter.
Best lightweight running shoes for women
18. Allbirds Tree Flyers
Best for: Planet-conscious runners
Weight: 227.15g
How much?
Was £150Now £119
Made with merino wool and eucalyptus fibre (fancy huh?) these shoes are made using more plants and less plastic. Thanks to their sustainable approach and extreeemely lightweight feel, the brand have gained a cult following. The midsole is big in cushion and energy return thanks to their bio-based SwiftFoam, setting you up nicely for long distance runs, with an external heel counter too for sturdy stable strides. If you're looking to shop more sustainable products, nows the time to join the Allbirds hype.
19. Adidas SL20.3
Best for: 10k training and fast pace runs
Weight: 230g
Drop: 8mm
How much?
Was £110Now 74.80
The SL20.3 is an ultra-lightweight shoe with a snappy propulsive feel thanks to it's cushioning. It's a breathable, supportive and comfortable shoe, meaning you can get out and train without worrying about whether your kit will slow you down. Plus, we're very into this new purple colourway and made from a series of recycled materials, thank you adidas.
The SL20 collection is designed to cross the line between committed daily runners and race runners: for when you want to do pace runs and set personal bests, any goal you've got in mind, these are the shoes to get you there.
20. Reebok Energen Lite shoes
Best for: Runners on a budget
Weight: 232g
Drop: 4mm
How much? £35
A stylish, simple running shoe that is available in six different colourways - we especially like this sleek all black design - these Reebok running shoes are so reasonably priced for the support they offer. An ultra-lightweight shoe, the Fuelfoam midsole is designed to cushion each landing on every stride, as well as keep you comfy for all day wear. They also boast a breathable mesh upper and targeted overlays supporting both your heel and toe. In summary, an ideal running shoe that doesn't cost the earth.
Best road running shoes for women
21. Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
Best for: high comfort on long distance runs
Weight: 247g
Drop: 13mm
How much? Was £165
Asics's Gel-Nimbus is built for distance running. They've gone all out in making this one of the most cushioned trainers on the market; the FF Blast+ cushioning technology increases the shock absorption with every step and the ORTHOLITE™ X-55 sockliner ensures comfort, creating a more responsive rebound, basically both dampening the impact as you pound the pavement. There's plenty of colourful styles to choose from and the added reflective detail is a great extra touch for night time runs.
22. Brooks Running Ghost 14
Best for: Daily hard surface runs
Weight: 255.1g
How much?
Was £130Now £91
Designed for a soft and smooth ride, these Ghost 14's are perfect for road running, with the midsole offering you that easy, comfortable glide from landing to toe-off. The cushioning isn't too squishy either, so you'll feel supported and, importantly, won't even notice the transitions as you go out and hit the concrete.
23. HOKA Kawana
Best for: All-rounder
Weight: 237g
Drop: 5mm
How much? £125
The Kawana is a brand-new release from Hoka for 2022, sitting between the popular Bondi and Clifton styles, they’re an accessible road running shoe that’s lightweight, with enduring support, and probably one of the brands most versatile shoes yet. Equally suitable for beginner runners committing to a couch to 5k resolution this year as much as fitness veterans, they offer smooth heel strikes, landing and transitions, thanks to the new CMEVA midsole foam and Swallowtail design at the heel.
24. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
Best for: building on speed
Weight: 204g
Drop: 8mm
How much? £165
So. You've completed the Couch to 5k app, you've been running on the reg and you're looking to take it to the next level. These are the shoes for you. The Saucony Endorphin promises to make every run feel easier and faster – and it really delivers. The Speed 3 is designed with a new winged plate, supporting toe-off to landing as well as the SPEEDROLL tech that propels you forward enhancing each and every stride to keep you moving. Plus, the FORMFIT design hugs your feet in all the right places and the lightweight PWRRUNPB foam cushioning feels super plush. Basically, the Endorphin collection is filled with so many techy features you will feel half bionic going for a run in the Speed 3.
Best supportive running shoes for women
25. On Running Cloudultra
Best for: Long trail runs and off road running
Weight: 245g
Drop: 8mm
How much? £160
If you're someone who likes to take their daily runs off road and onto rockier terrain, On Running's Cloudultra is your guy. It's not as lightweight as their Cloudflow style (at the beginning of this list) but offers maximum cushioning and is built for long distance runs. The Missiongrip™ sole provides the perfect amount of traction, combined with their signature Helion™ super foam for guaranteed cloud comfort.
26. Saucony Guide 15
Best for: Cushioned support
Weight: 233g
Drop: 8mm
How much? £130
Looking for extra comfort when you run? The Saucony Guide collection are the kicks for you. The redesigned Guide 15 are lighter than the 14 and even softer, with a pillowy sockliner and added cushioning. With supportive underfoot contouring and midsole geometry shaped for a guided smooth ride, these shoes are built to be reliable, cushioned, offering a fluid feel from heel to toe, with all the supportive Saucony tech like the FORMFIT design and PWRRUN cushioning. Plus, with reduced bulk, you'll feel light and free as you stride. Love that.
Best sustainable running shoes for women
27. Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
Best for: Everyday running
Weight: 292g
Drop: 7mm
How much? £125
The Tree Dasher was the brand's first foray into performance footwear, crafted from natural rubber and merino wool with a seamless upper made from FSC® Certified eucalyptus trees. This new evolution on their best seller style has the same sustainable make-up but with a reduced carbon footprint. It's tech spec has been updated too, with an improved no-slip heel for secure ankle support and angular shape to soften impact. A total eco-chic winner in our books.
28. Giesswein Merino Wool Runners
Best for: Cross training
How much? £129
Austrian brand Giesswein create 100% merino wool trainers that thermoregulate and are naturally odour resistant - whether you choose to wear socks or not! Their running trainers are hyper lightweight, comfortable and flexible which means they work for different workouts: perhaps running one day, power walking the next?
On the hunt for trail running shoes? We have you covered with the best trail running shoes to keep you getting out there safely this summer.
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