Top Running Shoe Brands for Performance and Comfort

Looking to elevate your running experience with top-notch footwear? The right pair of running shoes can make all the difference in comfort, performance, and injury prevention. With a plethora of options on the market, choosing the best brand for your needs can be daunting. Fortunately, we've compiled a comprehensive list of the best running shoe brands that cater to various preferences and running styles. Check below to discover our top picks and find the perfect pair for your next run.

Illustration of running shoes

Best brands of running shoes in 2025

Nike

Nike, a brand born from running, has consistently delivered top-tier running shoes, achieving a 35% market share in 2023, and its running shoe revenue reached $3.7 billion in 2022, with a 7.7% growth from 2012 to 2021. Nike offers a wide array of models like the Pegasus 41 for everyday training and the Alphafly 3 for elite racing, utilizing innovative technologies such as ZoomX foam with 85% energy return. They are consolidating their training range in 2025 to focus on the Pegasus, Vomero, and Structure lines.

Adidas

Adidas, a leading sportswear brand, continues to innovate in the running shoe market with technologies like Boost, introduced in 2013, and Lightstrike Pro, both designed for enhanced energy return and cushioning, achieving a 7% market share in the US as of 2023; furthermore, Adidas's Adizero line incorporates Energyrods for a faster feel, while Adiprene technology enhances comfort and impact absorption, making them suitable for various running styles; despite a global market share of 15.4% in 2022, with a previous high of 17%, Adidas remains a popular choice for runners seeking performance and comfort, offering a wide range of models for different needs and preferences.

Asics

Asics, established in 1949, has consistently innovated in running shoe technology, with studies showing up to 27% reduction in impact force thanks to their GEL cushioning; they are a favorite among runners of all levels, with 68% of users reporting improved comfort. Asics' dedication to performance has solidified them as one of the top brands, and Asics' latest models incorporate advanced materials for enhanced breathability and support, making them a highly recommended choice for serious athletes. To explore their latest running shoe collection, visit their website.

Brooks

Brooks has consistently been recognized as a leading brand in running footwear, with over 100 years of experience dedicated to crafting high-performance shoes; they've earned a reputation for their innovative technologies, such as DNA LOFT cushioning, which provides a softer ride; in fact, runners frequently rate Brooks shoes as some of the most comfortable and supportive available, with some models boasting up to 45% energy return; a significant portion of runners report reduced impact and fatigue due to Brooks' focus on biomechanics and fit, leading to increased mileage and improved performance; for more information on their award-winning line of running shoes, visit Brooks Running.

New Balance

New Balance, founded in 1906, has become a leading brand in running shoes, with its footwear segment generating $4.24 billion in revenue in 2022, holding a 10% market share in the US and 4% globally. They offer a variety of models like the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 for long runs, FuelCell Rebel v4 as a daily trainer, and the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 for race day, all incorporating advanced technologies like Fresh Foam and FuelCell for superior comfort and performance. Additionally, New Balance aims for sustainability with a target to use 100% preferred leather and cotton by 2025.

Saucony

Saucony, established in 1898, has evolved from a local factory to a global brand, renowned for producing high-quality running shoes, with a 9% market share in specialty running stores and a 19% year-over-year growth in 2022. Their popular models like the Endorphin Speed 4 and Peregrine 14 are often cited as top choices for road and trail running, respectively, reflecting Saucony's commitment to performance and innovation, while also maintaining a 60% loyalty rate among their customers in the U.S. The brand’s logo, representing the Saucony Creek, symbolizes its rich history and dedication to runners.

Hoka One One

Hoka One One, founded in 2009, has become a leading brand in running shoes, known for its maximalist design, and has achieved substantial growth, with a 28% revenue increase in 2023, and often holds one of the top two spots in market share within the US run specialty channel; their innovative designs, like the Clifton 9, a top daily trainer, and the Speedgoat 6, a favorite for trails, cater to various runner preferences, making them a popular choice for both casual and elite athletes, with Hoka's parent company, Deckers, holding a 4.3% market share. You can explore their wide range of products on their official website.

Under Armour

Under Armour, established in 1996, has become a leading brand in performance footwear, with over 50% of runners reporting high satisfaction with their innovative designs, particularly the HOVR cushioning technology, which has seen a 30% increase in popularity since its launch in 2018, resulting in a 15% increase in sales for their running line; their commitment to quality is evident in their advanced technology and is trusted by professional athletes and recreational runners alike. Check out the latest collection.

Mizuno

Mizuno, established in 1906, has consistently delivered high-performance running shoes, with over 80% of runners reporting satisfaction with their Wave technology for cushioning and stability; they've also been recognized for their innovative designs, including the Enerzy foam which provides a 15% increase in energy return compared to previous models, and they've been a trusted brand by both amateur and professional athletes for more than a century, while continuously improving their designs.

Altra

Altra, founded in 2009, stands out as a top running shoe brand with its unique FootShape™ toe box and ZeroDrop™ platform, promoting natural foot movement and better alignment, which helps to reduce impact force by encouraging a forefoot or midfoot strike; their innovative designs, including the popular Escalante model at just 7.7oz, cater to various running needs, from daily training to long distances, and have earned them a loyal following, with some models being 18.8% softer than average, and the brand has received Runner's World Magazine's 2012 Editor's Choice Best Debut award.