Some of the Best running shoes in 2020
- VeteranShack
- Jun 14, 2020
- 10 min read
The best running shoes are essential for everyone from beginners gearing up for their first 5K to casual joggers to seasoned marathon runners. Picking the best pair of running trainers can mean the difference between getting better at running over time, or getting shin splints and giving up.
The best running shoes come in all shapes, with differing designs and technologies to suit the needs of all types of runner. Driven by Nike's running shoe innovations, they are also currently in something of a tech arms race.
THE BEST RUNNING SHOES
1. HOKA ONE ONE CARBON X
Best running shoes
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 246 grams Drop: 5 mm Best for: Daily runs, tempo runs, intervals, long runs
REASONS TO BUY +Integrated carbon plate for propulsion
+Wide forefoot platform
+Lightning fast
REASONS TO AVOID -Chunky midsole could be bothersome for some
Packed with top-notch Hoka technology, the Hoka One One Carbon X's best selling point is the carbon fibre plate providing a smooth transition through the gait cycle, combined with the signature Hoka cushioning.
The Carbon X is ideal for runners wide a wide feet; the spacious but snug forefoot platform provides support and stability, holding your feet just enough so it doesn't slide around the shoes whilst the upper mesh offers breathability.
And the looks! The thick sole profile drops only 5 mm from heel to toe, but the Carbon X seems agile and ready to go, at all times. The embroidered heel not only reminds me of the Nazca lines in Peru but it also provides extra support to the heels.
One of the lightest shoes on the list, the Hoka One One Carbon X is a formidable competitor. It can't match the Nike Vaporfly for pure speed, but it's usable across both training runs and races, and a fair bit more affordable. And, uh, you can actually buy it, while Vaporfly is now rather scarce, with people asking for silly money for it online. That's why it's back to being our #1 best running shoe.
2. NIKE REACT INFINITY RUN
Best running shoes for beginners or those prone to injury
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 275 grams (men's size 9) Drop: 9 mm Best for: Recovery, long runs
REASONS TO BUY +So much support, but still feels speedy
+Rolls well
+New Flyknit upper is firm yet comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID -Arguably too much support for seasoned runners
The Nike React Infinity Run delivers on its promise, offering plenty of support in order to protect you from injury. The new Flyknit upper is comfortable yet firm and there is no sign of chafing around the rear of the foot. The integrated knitted tongue and the lace closure helps the Nike React Infinity Run follow the shape of the foot as closely as possible.
Despite all the injury-reducing protection, a fast tempo is guaranteed by the Vaporfly-like rocker sole geometry that merges landing and take off into one smooth transition. Very little energy is lost and your legs will feel fresher for longer.
For beginners, or people with 'interesting' running techniques, the Nike React Infinity Run will significantly reduce risk of injury. This doesn't mean you can just completely forget about correct running technique of course, but it will definitely help you worry less as you run. More seasoned runners might find all the extra support a bit much, but even they will appreciate the supreme cushioning and energy return.
3. ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 21
Best ASICS running shoe: amazing support for long-distance neutral runners
Weight: 309 grams Drop: 10 mm Best for: Training, long runs
REASONS TO BUY +Supreme cushioning
+Good traction
REASONS TO AVOID -All the extra cushioning makes the shoe a bit heavier-Can get warm inside
Asics’ Gel system has always been synonymous with supreme cushioning and the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 is no different. We haven’t got enough space here to list all the technology that went into these shoes, but it’s safe to say that it’s similar to a description of a modern commercial airjet.
The trademarked I.G.S. technology – coupled with the Guidance Line system – provides outstanding gait support while the Trusstic system adds to the already great stability.
Understandably, all the extra cushioning adds a bit to the weight of the shoes, something to be expected. The Gel-Nimbus 21 was designed for comfortable, long-distance runs and not explosive sprints. There are better shoes for that purpose.
The Gel-Nimbus 21 looks pretty much like a professional running shoe, just like the Brooks and Saucony models below. It definitely isn't a bad thing, but if you are after more swag, try the Adidas UltraBoost 19 or the On Cloud X.
Given all the extra padding, the Gel-Nimbus 21 can feel a bit warmer when the weather is hot. The shoes have great breathability but even that won’t counterbalance all the thick cushioning. Nevertheless, it's a great shoe for any serious runner out there.
4. ADIDAS SOLAR BLAZE
The best cheap running shoes prove you can run fast without fast money
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 330 grams (UK 8.5) Drop: 10 mm Best for: Everyday runs, jogging, light training
REASONS TO BUY +Straightforward running trainer
REASONS TO AVOID -Heavy
-None of the tech found in higher end models
Sometimes, all you need is a pair of cheap running shoes that won't torture your feet when you finally decide to go for a run once again after having three months off exercising. And if you are one of those recreational runners – no shame in that – then the Adidas Solar Blaze are probably the best running shoes for you.
The Adidas Solar Blaze does what it says on the box: it has a regular fit and lace closure so you can adjust the tension on the textile upper to your liking. The textile lining and the seamless haptic print overlay will provide some support where it's needed.
The Bounce midsole is springy, as the name suggests with decent energy return stats. Traction is provided by the flexible Stretchweb outsole that uses the durable Adiwear outsole tech so it won't wear away after two runs. Not quite the Continental rubber outsole of the Ultraboost series but perfectly adequate for the money you'll pay for these shoes.
The 10 mm heel drop makes the Adidas Solar Blaze a good choice for beginner runners.
5. NIKE ZOOM PEGASUS TURBO 2
Great tempo training shoes
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 220 grams Drop: 10 mm Best for: Daily runs, tempo runs
REASONS TO BUY +Updated upper mesh
+Lightweight
+Great energy return
REASONS TO AVOID - Foam can feel slightly soft at times
Nike managed to enhance the already amazing Zoom Pegasus Turbo with the
The upper mesh-fabric has been updated so it’s even lighter now whilst retaining and improving on the stability of the shoe. The foam base has also been updated without compromising on the metrics of this great all-rounder.
What makes the Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 the best on our running shoe list is it’s versatility and looks. It’s comfortable enough for longer runs but it also provides great traction on concrete and other hard surfaces for all you urban runners.
As for looks, the Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 still has the trademark protruding-heel design which it takes from its big brother the ZoomX Vaporfly Next%. The latter has a bulkier look to it whereas the Turbo 2 operates with gentler lines and softer curves.
The ZoomX midsole delivers an unmatched energy return while the specially-shaped heel helps you land softer and rocks you forward. Using the Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 will make you feel unstoppable both on the road and in the gym too.
6. ADIDAS ULTRABOOST PB
Best Adidas UltraBoost running shoes
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 307 grams (UK size 8.5) Drop: 10 mm . Best for: Daily runs, long runs
REASONS TO BUY +Updated Boost midsole technology
+Updated superlight mesh upper
REASONS TO AVOID -Heavy beast
-Only subtle improvements on its predecessor
Unlike the Ultraboost 19, the latest generation of Adidas Ultraboost shoes only bring subtle improvements to the table. This might have been an issue for less competent running shoes, but the Ultraboost 19 was – and still is – a brilliant road running shoe and it was enough to just tweak the dynamics, as opposed to completely revamping them.
So what has changed? For one, the Boost midsole has been made updated and according to Adidas, it is now "20% more responsive". As well as the midsole, the upper has been tweaked and now features Celermesh materials which makes the shoes lighter without compromising fit and maximum performance.
On top of this, there are other factors that help improve comfort levels, like the soft elastane external heel counter and the torsion spring system that provides enhanced support on landing and a quick transition. Traction is guaranteed on hard surfaces thanks to the StretchWeb Rubber Outsole made from Continental rubber.
The Adidas Ultraboost PB might not Adidas' most innovative shoes at the moment but if you are after a workhorse-type shoe that will support you on longer runs and extensive training sessions, look no further than the PB.
7. NIKE ZOOMX VAPORFLY NEXT%
Well, it's the best running shoe for pure speed – but you usually can't buy it
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 190 grams (men's size 9) Drop: 8 mm Best for: Quick runners doing long distances
REASONS TO BUY +Blisteringly fast
+Supreme cushioning and energy return
REASONS TO AVOID -Hard to acquire
-You'll want to wrap them in cotton wool between races
Update: Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% would normally be higher up our list of the best running shoes but it is so frequently unavailable, and so specifically for racing, that we have moved it down a touch. It is also undeniably weird looking.
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% is so fast, athletes are lobbying for it to be examined by the International Association of Athletics Federations because they think it provides unfair advantage to athletes who wear them. In the prototype of the successor to the Vaporfly NEXT%, the Nike Air Zoom Alphafly, Eliud Kipchoge broke the two-hour marathon record, previously thought to be impossible to overcome.
What's so good in the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%? Nike threw everything it knows about running shoes out of the window when they started designing the Vaporfly series. What they came up with might just be the most peculiar-looking road running shoes in existence, but one that gives runners near perfect running dynamics.
There are three key elements to the design of the Vaporfly NEXT%: the updated ZoomX foam that provides a soft landing without wasting energy on the ground, the full-length carbon plate embedded in the midsole that enables you to turn that landing energy to forward momentum and the VaporWeave upper that helps the shoes fit near perfect on your feet.
You wont wear the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% for light afternoon strolls on Park Street, in fact, you will want to wear them only on races – and races that matter, at that. Taking into account that the cushioning won't be able to perform at 100% efficiency forever, you are looking at spending a lot of money for road running shoes you will probably wear a few times a year. My opinion? It's still worth it.
8. ON CLOUDFLOW
As agile as it is handsome
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 235 grams Drop: 6 mm Best for: Threshold runs, racing, anything between 10km and a marathon
REASONS TO BUY +Great cushioning
+Amazing looks
+Light and comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID -You won't want to get it dirty
-For relatively good weather only
The latest update on the Cloudflow brings the Helion sole tech to this model: On's 'superfoam' delivers a soft yet responsive running experience, regardless of the temperature, giving you the same dynamics all year around.
The Helion works hard to reduce impact force as you land while the Cloud elements at the front help you lift off the ground more easily and efficiently. Does this combination work? It does, and brilliantly so.
The upper is a low-profile mesh that holds your feet in the right places and feels top quality too. Not to mention, the design of the shoes is pretty amazing: not often do you see such an eye-popping design in full-fledged running shoes.
Probably the biggest issue with the On Cloudflow is its looks: you won't want to get it dirty and run around in puddles, fearing the shoe might lose its box-fresh look. You can go for the black colourway, of course, but with such great colour gradients available, why would you?
9. ASICS NOVABLAST
Put a spring in your stride
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 260 grams Drop: 10 mm Best for: short- to mid-distance runs, mild weather runs, training
REASONS TO BUY +Springy
+Well-cushioned
+Looks fun
REASONS TO AVOID -Heel counter is not firm enough
-Can get warm
-Too much foam for good energy returns
The Asics Novablast is definitely one of the most exciting running shoe I've seen from the Japanese manufacturer in recent times. By no means it is perfect but it still offers plenty for the asking price.
The jumpy FlyteFoam Blast midsole delivers a fun running experience and wearing the Novablast will also make you taller, literally, thanks to the 10 millimetres of added foam which makes you feel like you have springs strapped to your feet.
The Asics Novablast delivers in the looks department too: there aren't really a boring colourway of this shoe which is refreshing to see from Asics. Even the mainly black variant has lime green highlights and blue laces/outsole, giving the shoes a fresh and eccentric vibe.
Some might find the Novablast not optimised for longer runs; I would definitely not choose this shoe over the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% for my next half marathon. Saying that, you can't actually buy a Vaporfly NEXT% at the moment and if you are a serious pronator, the narrow middle part of the Vaporfly's sole might do more harm than good anyway.
If you are after a bouncy, comfortable running experience and don't mind a bit looseness around the heels, you'll be well off wearing the Asics Novablast for your runs.
10. BROOKS HYPERION TEMPO
Lightweight trainers with nitrogen-infused midsole
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 210 grams Drop: 8 mm Best for: training, cushioning, mid-distance runs
REASONS TO BUY +DNA Flash midsole is very responsive
+Feather-light
+Upper follows contour of feet well
REASONS TO AVOID -Availability issues
The Brooks Hyperion Tempo was announced in January 2020 and went under the radar for a bit, partially due to the lockdown and partially because Brooks is one of those brands only hardcore runners know about. A shame since the American manufacturer has produced a lot of amazing running shoes and still does, the Hyperion Tempo being a very good example of that.
The Brooks Hyperion Tempo is marketed as a training shoe to go with the carbon-enhanced Brooks Hyperion Elite. But unlike the Elite that uses the DNA Zero midsole, the Tempo is using the brand new, nitrogen-infused DNA Flash midsole that I'm sure we'll hear more about in the future.
On the press briefing in January, Brooks' Blue Line senior manager Nikhil Jain explained that the main aim with the Hyperion line was to reduce deviation from the ideal stride which in turn would would result in and better energy return and less fatigue.
Running in the Brooks Hyperion Elite feel light and responsive indeed. The midsole springy but not so much that it would hinder your efforts, I would characterise it 'supportive bounce' that reduces some of the impact force from the heels and creates a smoother transition from heel-to-toe.
I also found the upper a good fit: not race tight but not too baggy either. The slits at the front of the woven upper allow air to enter and since the fabric doesn't sit too close to the skin, your feet will kept cool and collected even after longer runs. Maybe not marathon distances but 10-20 km for sure.
My only issue with the Brooks Hyperion Tempo is the availability: just like many other premium shoes nowadays, the Hyperion Tempo never seems to be in stock in its full size-range. I understand that lockdown has increased demand and probably severed supply chains from Asia but it would be nice to have this shoe in stock from more than a week at a time. One can hope.
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