Running is a great way to stay fit, get some fresh air, and clear your mind. But whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or a total beginner, one thing is certain: you need a good pair of running shoes. It’s no good planning to run a marathon in an old pair of trainers that are going to leave you with blisters.
With so many brands and models on the market, all being endorsed by the planet’s biggest sports stars, it can be tough to know which ones to choose. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best brands for running shoes.
1. Nike
It’s hard to talk about running shoes without mentioning Nike. The sportswear giant sponsors some of the world’s biggest sports stars, including Portuguese soccer icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, the NBA’s all-time leading points scorer LeBron James, and perhaps the greatest golf player of all time Tiger Woods. The billion-dollar corporation’s top-rated running shoes include the Zoom Pegasus, the Air Zoom Structure, and the Free RN.
The Swoosh-marked brand has been dominating the shoe market for decades ever since signing a money-spinning deal with Michael Jordan during the 1990s. They weren’t considered one of the biggest brands on the market at the time, however when MJ completed two historic three-peats, the world sat up and took notice of his iconic red Nike’s.
Not only did the former North Carolina Tar Heel lead the Illinois-based side to three consecutive Larry O’Brien Trophies between 1991 and 1993, he even found the time to leave the sport, spend a couple of years playing baseball, return and lift three more crowns consecutively between 1996 and 1998.
As the latest basketball betting odds will tell you, Jordan’s beloved Chicago Bulls aren’t the force they once were, being made +20000 outsiders for the NBA championship this season. But while the United Center side isn’t a powerhouse in their respective lane, Nike most definitely is. Their reputation for innovative features, quality materials, and aesthetics is unrivaled in the sports gear industry.
And it isn’t just the Bulls that have benefited from a partnership with the American apparel conglomerate. The entire NBA has been benefiting since the 2017/18 season. That’s when an eight-year deal thought to be worth up to as much as $1bn for the league kicked into gear, a deal that saw Nike branding appear on official NBA uniforms for the first time in history Both the league and the sportswear manufacturer have been partnered in one way or another since 1992 however, over the last five years, they have truly taken it to another level.
2. Adidas
Another heavy hitter in the world of sports, Adidas is known for its high-quality, durable shoes. Among their top runners are the Ultra Boost, the Supernova, and the Adizero Adios.
When it comes to sponsored athletes, Adidas has a strong lineup, with major names like Argentinian World Cup Winner Lionel Messi – who secured his legacy when he climbed his final peak and led the Albiceleste to the famous gold trophy last December – and Milwaukee Bucks starlet Damian Lillard on their roster.
3. New Balance
If you’re looking for a brand that’s serious about running, look no further than New Balance. The company has been making high-quality running shoes for over a century and has a reputation for excellence, however, it is only recently that they have taken on more of a mainstream appeal. Their top models include the New Balance Fresh Foam, the New Balance 1080, and the New Balance FuelCell.
New Balance also sponsors some top athletes, such as US Open winner Coco Gauff and former Liverpool and Bayern Munich winger Sadio Mane. They even have endorsements with stars in the music industry, with rapper Jack Harlow saying in one of his most recent records: “I got a check from the shoe company. Now I do anything that New Balance say.”
4. Asics
If excellent support and stability on a modest budget is what you crave in a running shoe, then Asics might be the right brand for you. They have been in business for over 70 years, and their experience says it all. Their product lineup has a wide range of options, from racing flats to cushioning support shoes for distance running. Their endorsement lineup couldn’t be more impressive, with the likes of Ethiopian long-distance running sensation Kenenisa Bekele and the Los Angeles Lakers’ Japanese star Rui Hachimura both putting their shoes to the test every day.
5. Saucony
Saucony may not be as well-known as some of the other brands on this list, but don’t let that put you off. Their shoes are among the best on the market, with a focus on durability and performance. Their top-rated shoes include the Triumph, the Cohesion, and the Omni. The company has been providing top-of-the-range footwear to some of the finest runners in America today, including Jared Ward, Neely Gracey, and Katie Mackey.
6. Brooks
Another brand that’s been around for a while, Brooks, has a reputation for making sturdy, reliable shoes that are great for runners. Their top models include the Ghost, the Adrenaline, and the Launch. Brooks has become the go-to brand for many runners, and part of their endorsement list includes Olympic medalist, Natasha Hastings, and US distance runner, Desi Linden. This brand may be lesser known but packs a punch with its shoes. the American company is a reputable brand known for its support and soft cushioning, making it ideal for long-distance runners.