Honorable mentions
Photo: G Stockstudio/Getty Images
As we said, WIRED runners log hundreds of miles every year. Here are some of the other shoes we tested that you might consider if the solutions above don’t work for your foot. If you’re unfamiliar with a brand, we recommend visiting a local running store for a test run before pulling out your credit card.
Diadora Nucleo 2 for $165: The Nucleo 2 is not a stunning, high-energy, super-stretchy shoe. But if you’re a fan of simple, no-frills comfort and good inherent stability over a good range of paces, the Nucleo 2 delivers.
Rad R1 for $130: Designed to master gym, HIIT, running, and all kinds of hybrid workouts, I use the Rad R1 when I’m doing my strength and conditioning work in the gym like a good boy. They work for short runs and miles on the treadmill’s softer belt, while still being stable and supportive enough to go under the bar and providing control for exercises like box jumps and lunges. They look good too.
New Balance Rebel V5 for $145, Adidas EVO SL for $105, Kiprun Kipride Max ($160). Another top-rated all-around shoe to rival the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5, the Rebel V5 is soft, lightweight, and performs across the entire pace range. The Adidas EVO SL is a great alternative to the Saucony Endorphin Azura and can also handle anything you throw at it. But if you like your stuff super soft with a little bounce, the Kiprun Kipride Max serves up a plush cushioned ride with a bit of pop.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 for $170, HOKA Clifton 9 for $164: If you’ve never run before, the Hoka Clifton 9 is my recommendation for a beginner runner. Despite Hoka’s oversized (ahem) reputation, this is a fairly minimalist, comfortable, balanced and lightweight shoe. —Adrienne So
Saucony Ride 17 for $110: This is also a good older budget shoe model.
Saucony Hurricane 25 for $135, Brooks Glycerin 23 GTS for $180: Michael Calore, director of consumer technology and podcast host, works at Brooks Glycerin. This is our alternative choice if you are looking for shoes with greater stability.
FAQs
How should I care for my running shoes?
- Give them a day off. After long runs, the foam in the midsole takes time to decompress. Rotating shoes with 48 hours between runs increases the rebound capacity of your shoe.
- Undo your shoelaces. You’re tired, we know, but starting (or worse, coming back) without loosening your running shoes is a surefire way to quickly damage your heels.
- Wash them if they get muddy. Mud and sand present in the upper fibers can degrade them. But don’t machine wash them. Do it by hand and stay well away from the dryer.
- Keep things cool. Prolonged exposure to high heat from a radiator or direct sunlight can dry, harden and damage the midsole.
- Fill them out. Remove the insoles and dry each running shoe separately. Then use crumpled newspaper to dry the damp interiors more quickly and help the stems retain their shape.
How long should my shoes last?
The collective wisdom of the Internet says you should replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles. However, this decades-old rule of thumb is based on a few limited studies and general advice from brands. New varieties of foam, outsole rubbers and superior technology mean that it is now more difficult to provide general advice.
There are many modern midsole foam formulations. Durability is now judged not only by how long the protective padding lasts, but also by its ability to provide bounce and performance. Some of the best superfoams may lose their initial energy but remain as protective as a firmer, more traditional EVA sole. For example, your high-tech carbon racing shoe might become your daily runner once it loses its top speed advantage.
You also need to consider your unique running style. Shoes wear differently for different runners, depending on variables such as weight, stride, pace, daily use, terrain and climate. There are obvious signs of wear: rubbed heel collars, holes in the upper or grip worn to the point that it is no longer effective. It’s harder to spot when a midsole has had its day. They don’t crease the way old shoes do.
Best advice: use your shoes until something goes wrong. When this happens, you may want to start shopping.
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