Running is a sport that demands both dedication and the right gear to ensure optimal performance and comfort. Choosing reliable running gear can significantly impact your training sessions, making it essential to invest in high-quality brands known for their innovation and durability. From shoes that provide perfect cushioning to apparel designed for breathability and weather resistance, there are many brands that cater to the diverse needs of runners. Below, you'll find a carefully curated list of the best brands that have consistently set benchmarks in the running gear industry.
Illustration of running gear
Best brands of running gear in 2025
Nike
Nike is one of the leading producers of running gear, holding a significant market share in the athletic footwear industry. As of 2022, the brand held 30% of the athletic footwear market, marking a 2.6% increase from its 27.4% share in 2020 and a notable 67.6% increase since 2011. In the running shoe segment, Nike generated $3.702 billion in revenue in 2022, although it has been surpassed by brands like Brooks, Hoka, and On in the adult performance running category. Nike's global market share in sneakers and apparel remains dominant, despite a slight decline to 16.4% in 2024. The company continues to produce over 800 million pairs of shoes annually, maintaining a robust presence in both domestic and international markets. For more detailed insights into Nike's shoe statistics, you can visit Nike Shoes Statistics.
Adidas
Adidas is a leading producer of running gear, boasting a 15.4% market share in the global athletic footwear market as of 2022. The brand experienced a 3.1% growth in its footwear segment in 2022, reaching $13.2 billion in revenue. Adidas dominates the sneaker segment with a 14.7% market share and has a strong presence in the NBA, with 11.5% of players wearing Adidas over the past four seasons. The company's footwear segment accounts for 55% of its total net sales, highlighting its significance. Adidas' highest total footwear revenue was $15.1 billion in 2019, showcasing its robust performance in the industry. For more insights, visit their Adidas shoes statistics page.
Asics
Asics is a leading brand in the athletic footwear market, particularly renowned for its high-performance running gear. As of 2020, Asics held a 13.3% market share in the running shoe segment, surpassing Nike's 9.2% and Adidas' 5.5%. Globally, Asics maintains an 8.1% market share in the athletic footwear industry, positioning it as the fourth-largest brand worldwide. In the United States, Asics accounts for approximately 6.5% of the athletic footwear market share as of 2021. The brand's strong presence is further highlighted by its $2.73 billion in footwear net sales in 2022, with performance running shoes contributing $1,766 million to this total. For more detailed information on Asics' market share, visit their analysis.
Brooks
Brooks Running has solidified its position as a leading producer of running gear, achieving a new record in global quarterly revenue with a 15% year-over-year growth in Q2 2024. The brand maintained its No. 1 market share in the adult performance running footwear market at U.S. national retail for the 11th consecutive quarter and held the top spot in the U.S. specialty footwear retail segment. In North America, Brooks saw a 19% year-over-year revenue increase, driven by the success of models like the Glycerin 21 and Ghost Max. The company also reported significant growth in other regions, including a 30% revenue increase in Asia Pacific - Latin America and a 10% increase in Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Brooks exceeded $1 billion in global revenue year-to-date through September 2024, marking a major milestone. For more details, visit the official Brooks Running website.
New Balance
New Balance is a leading producer of running gear, boasting a significant market presence with a 4% global market share and a 10% market share in the US. In 2022, the brand achieved a record-high $4.24 billion in shoe revenue, with 80% of its total revenue coming from footwear. New Balance produces an average of 16 million pairs of shoes annually and has seen a 214.1% growth in footwear revenue from 2008 to 2022. The brand also holds a 12.7% share of the running shoes market in the US and has a strong resale market with an average resale price of $223. New Balance's commitment to quality and sustainability is evident in its use of 91% preferred leather and 64% preferred cotton in its manufacturing. For more detailed insights, you can visit their official statistics page.
Saucony
Saucony is a highly regarded brand in the running gear market, known for its innovative and high-performance products. In 2023, Saucony's sales totaled $495.8 million, although this represented a 1.2% decline in constant currency. The brand is particularly trusted by elite runners and has seen strong sell-through rates for its recent launches, such as the Ride 17 and Guide 17, which have been well-received in the run specialty channel. Saucony holds a 5% market share in the US athletic footwear sector and is recognized for its industry-leading innovations, including the Endorphin Elite collection. Despite a predicted decline in the low-20s range for 2024, the brand is expected to recover with sequential improvements each quarter.
Under Armour
Under Armour has emerged as a leading producer of high-quality running gear, surpassing Adidas in combined apparel and footwear sales to become the second-largest sports brand in the U.S. by 2024. With a 14% share of the U.S. sports apparel market, Under Armour's sales have jumped 20% this year, while Adidas' sales have declined by 23%. The company's focus on women's sports apparel and footwear, along with its expansion into global markets, has been a key factor in its growth. Under Armour's annual revenue is anticipated to reach nearly $3 billion in 2024, with the brand continuing to dominate through athletic specialty and sporting goods retailers. Its innovative products, such as the Curry 9 Flow shoes, highlight its commitment to performance and technology.
Hoka One One
Hoka One One has emerged as a powerhouse in the running gear market, boasting an extraordinary growth profile with a compound annual growth rate of roughly 50% since 2018. The brand, acquired by Deckers Outdoors in 2012, has expanded its revenue from $153.5 million in fiscal 2018 to over $1.8 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, with a 28% revenue growth in the last year alone. Hoka's success is driven by its diverse footwear offerings, catering to running enthusiasts, trail explorers, and lifestyle customers, and its strategic wholesale expansion. The brand's focus on comfort, performance, and fashion has made it a significant competitor, particularly in the lifestyle market where athletic footwear sales are thriving. Hoka's growth trajectory is expected to continue, with estimates suggesting another $4 billion in annual sales potential. For more insights into Hoka's impact in the athleisure and global footwear market, visit Catalyst Insights.
Puma
Puma is a leading producer of running gear, holding a 2% share in the global running shoe market and a 2.1% share in the global athletic footwear market as of 2022. The brand has seen significant growth, with its footwear revenue increasing from $1.6 billion in 2014 to $4.6 billion in 2022, representing a 187.5% increase. Puma also maintains a 5.1% share in the trainers market and a 4% share in the U.S. athletic shoe segment. The company produced 35 million pairs of shoes annually and sourced 44% of its leather materials from the USA in 2022. Puma is expected to reach $6.2 billion in footwear revenues by 2030 if current trends continue.
Mizuno
Mizuno is a leading brand in the running gear market, recognized for its significant market share gains and high praise from specialty retailers. In 2005, Mizuno reported a 26% increase in running footwear and apparel sales, leading to a market share climb to 10.3% in the specialty running arena. The brand's innovative Wave Technology was ranked the #1 technology for the fifth consecutive season by specialty retailers, with Mizuno rated among the Top 2 brands for Sales Rep Support and Product Line. Additionally, Mizuno's Athletic Division experienced an impressive 540% revenue increase from 1999 to 2005, with a 21% rise in revenue from 2004 to 2005 alone. Mizuno's footwear sales also surged nearly 25% in the first half of 2023, showcasing its continued growth and strong market presence.
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