When it comes to running, choosing the right gear can make all the difference in your performance and overall experience. With a plethora of brands offering specialized running attire, shoes, and accessories, it's essential to identify which ones truly stand out in terms of quality, comfort, and innovation. From high-performance footwear that promises to enhance your stride to apparel designed to wick away moisture and keep you comfortable, these brands have become trusted names in the running community. Join us as we explore some of the best brands for runners, providing you with insights on what makes each of them exceptional.
Illustration of runners
Best brands of runners in 2025
Nike
Nike is renowned as one of the best producers for runners, holding a significant 38.2% of the total footwear market and 30% of the athletic footwear market as of 2023. The company has seen a remarkable 67.6% increase in its athletic footwear market share since 2011 and produces over 800 million pairs of shoes annually, with 60% of its footwear revenue coming from the international market. In the sneaker department, Nike dominates with a 38.5% market share, and its North American sales alone reached $12.2 billion in 2022. The brand's success is also reflected in its strong financial performance, generating over $50 billion in revenue in the fiscal year 2023. Nike's innovative supply chain and digital transformation have been key factors in its sustained success. For more detailed Nike shoes statistics, you can visit their page.
Adidas
Adidas is one of the leading producers for runners, boasting a significant market share in the athletic footwear industry. As of 2022, Adidas held a 15.10% share in the global athletic footwear market and a 14.70% share in the sneaker market. The company's footwear segment accounts for 55% of its total sales, with athletic shoes being the major contributor. Adidas is known for its performance-driven designs and innovative products, such as the Boost running shoe, which has received positive feedback from consumers and critics alike. With a global presence in over 150 countries, Adidas continues to be a dominant force in the sportswear industry.
Asics
Asics is a leading athletic footwear brand, particularly renowned for its high-performance running shoes, holding a significant 8.1% global market share in the athletic footwear industry and a notable 9.9% share in the performance running footwear category as of 2019. The brand generates approximately 50% of its revenue from the performance running segment and commands more than 10% of the global performance running market. In the United States, Asics accounts for about 6.5% of the athletic footwear market share. The company's commitment to innovative technologies, such as GEL(tm), has solidified its position as a favorite among runners worldwide. Asics' global presence is further underscored by its $3 billion shoe revenue in 2022.
Brooks
Brooks Running has solidified its position as a leading brand in the performance running footwear market, achieving over $1 billion in global revenue by the third quarter of 2024, a first for the company before the start of its fourth quarter. The brand maintained its No. 1 market share in adult performance running footwear at U.S. national retail for the 11th consecutive quarter, with a 10% year-over-year increase in North America and a 16% growth in its e-commerce channel. In the Asia Pacific - Latin America region, revenue grew more than 30%, while in Europe, Middle East, and Africa, revenue increased by 10% fueled by 24% direct e-commerce sales growth. Brooks also dominated the U.S. specialty footwear retail segment, posting over 22% year-over-year footwear revenue growth, outpacing the total market's 7.9% growth. The brand was voted the top choice for both training and race running shoes by more than 20% of participants in the 2024 Running USA Global Runner Survey. For more details, visit Brooks Running's official website.
New Balance
New Balance is a leading brand in the athletic footwear industry, particularly favored by runners, with a 10% market share in the US and 4% globally. In 2022, the company reported a record $4.24 billion in shoe revenue, a remarkable 214.1% increase from 2008. New Balance produces 16 million pairs of shoes annually and holds a significant 12.7% share of the running shoe market in the US. The brand's footwear segment accounts for 80% of its total revenue, and it has seen a notable increase in favorability among Gen Z, with 52% of Gen Z adults favorable to the brand as of September 2023. New Balance aims to double its size and reach $10 billion in revenue in the coming years. For more detailed insights, visit their New Balance shoe statistics.
Saucony
Saucony is a renowned brand in the running industry, boasting over a century of experience and a strong market presence with a 5% market share in the US footwear market. Known for its innovative footwear designs, Saucony's products, such as the Endorphin Elite collection, have been recognized by Runner's World in its Gear of the Year awards. The brand's revenue totaled $495.8 million in 2023, although it saw a 1.2% decline in constant currency. Saucony's products feature advanced technologies like ISOFIT and EVERUN, providing superior fit, comfort, and performance for runners of all levels. With 40% brand awareness among sneaker owners in the US, Saucony maintains a loyal customer base, with 60% of its owners likely to purchase the brand again. For a deep dive into their legacy, explore the history of Saucony from spikes to streetwear.
Hoka One One
Hoka One One has emerged as a leading brand in the running shoe market, known for its innovative and comfortable designs. Founded in 2009 by Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, Hoka has grown from a niche brand to a global leader, generating over $1 billion in annual sales by 2023, with a compound annual growth rate of roughly 50% since 2018. The brand's success is attributed to its breakthrough technology and unconventional aesthetic, offering superior cushioning and performance. Hoka's products appeal to a diverse range of consumers, from trail runners to casual runners and lifestyle customers, with a strong focus on community engagement and customer feedback. This growth has positioned Hoka as a significant competitor to traditional giants like Nike, with its stock performing exceptionally well, up 81% in the past year. For more insights into Hoka's marketing strategy, visit their marketing overview.
Under Armour
Under Armour has emerged as a formidable player in the athletic apparel and footwear market, particularly for runners, by surpassing Adidas to become the second-largest sports brand in the U.S. in 2024. With a 20% increase in sales this year, Under Armour's apparel sales now account for 14% of the U.S. market, more than twice that of Adidas. The company's global footwear sales have shown significant growth, reaching $1.455 billion in 2023, and it holds a 9% market share in the U.S. athletic footwear industry. Under Armour's innovative products and strategic partnerships, such as its deal with the University of Hawai'i at Hilo, enhance its commitment to performance and competitiveness. The brand's focus on women's sports apparel and footwear, along with its expanding retail outlets and global presence, further solidifies its position as a top choice for runners.
Puma
Puma is a leading producer of high-quality athletic footwear, particularly for runners, with a significant global market presence. As of 2022, Puma holds a 1.2% share of the global footwear market and a 5.1% share in the trainers segment. The company produced 35 million pairs of shoes annually and achieved a revenue of $4.6 billion in its footwear segment in 2022, marking a 28.8% year-on-year growth from 2021. Puma's footwear revenue has consistently grown since 2014, with a projected reach of $6.2 billion by 2030. The brand collaborates with top athletes and has seen substantial growth in its direct-to-consumer sales, including a 17.5% increase in 2023. For more detailed statistics, visit Puma shoes statistics.
Salomon
Salomon has established itself as a leading brand for runners, particularly with its Sportstyle division, which saw a significant surge in sales to over $165 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2023, up from $80 million in 2022. This growth is largely driven by the popularity of its XT-6 sneaker line, which has become a hit among both streetwear enthusiasts and mainstream consumers. In 2022, Salomon posted overall revenue of over $1 billion, marking a substantial increase from $961.2 million the previous year. The brand's strong performance is also evident in its 202 percent year-on-year growth on resale platform StockX in 2023. Salomon's footwear, known for its technical features and stylish designs, has resonated well with consumers, especially in Greater China and the Asia Pacific region. For more details about their innovative products, visit Salomon's official website.
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