The Best Running Shoes For Men

Buying Guide

If you’re just starting to take up running, congratulations! You’ve found an easy way to connect with nature and one of the cheapest ways to get exercise. The only real investment you need to make is in your running shoes, but take your time and do a little research. Shoes can make the difference between a smooth runner’s high and tired, blistery feet.

The first thing to understand is that not all sneakers are running shoes. Science has come a long way since the first marathon, and there are some truly space-age materials going into modern footwear. Of course, that’s not to say that the best shoe for you is going to be the most expensive one. As with any kind of shoe, the right fit is key. Whatever kind of shoe you buy, make sure the return policy allows you to try them on for a day or so. Often, you won’t know if a pair of shoes is right for you until you’ve put a couple miles on them.

You can start to narrow down your choices by identifying what kind of running you do. If your normal jogging route takes you primarily over paved roads, you’re going to need a good road shoe. The priority with this kind of shoe is cushioning, and for good reason. With a standard gait, the heel and balls of the feet are going to take a lot of punishment from repeated impact on that unyielding asphalt. Pay attention to the midsole. Is it stable? Does it provide a bit of cushion? You generally want something that has a layer of softness, but not so much that it hampers the natural movement of your feet. You’re looking for shoes that are lightweight but durable, with an outsole that won’t slip on wet roads.

Are you mainly going to be taking on outdoor trails or maybe even running up mountainous terrain? This kind of territory calls for off-road running shoes. With this kind of shoe, you’re going to see a lot of protection for your feet. You’ll want thicker outsoles to guard against sharp rocks or sticks, and durable uppers to ward off scrapes from thick brush. Off-road shoes tend to be heavier and thicker overall, focusing on stability. You might also want some waterproofing to keep the mud or rain out of your socks.

If you’re mainly going to be lacing up for a gym workout, find a good cross-training shoe. This type of running shoe is all about stability and comfort, since you’re going to be doing a lot of quick pivots and repetitive treadmill work.

If you plan to move up to marathons, it may be worth it to have a therapist or doctor assess your gait. If your feet tend to roll inward as you run, you’re going to need a shoe with additional cushioning on that inside edge. If your feet roll outward (a habit known as supination), you’ll want more protection on the outside edge. It all comes down to finding the right fit for you, which means even the most expensive shoe won’t be right for every runner.

Having trouble finding comfort no matter what kind of shoe you wear? It might be time to give insoles a try.

Insoles are inserts that you slip into a shoe, and while they’re not a cure-all, they can and have brought relief to some runners. Good insoles contain gel or other strategically placed cushions that can ward off injury, provide stability and even help improve your gait. Trial and error isn’t the best approach with insoles, though. For best results, consult with a podiatrist or running specialist to find what kind of insoles (if any) are right for you.

MORE: What to look for in running shoes