Whether you’re a seasoned runner or one of the 39 per cent of Australians planning to be more health conscious post-pandemic, there’s one essential you need: running shoes. A good pair of joggers can make or break your workout, so it’s important to purchase a pair tailored to your individual needs.
According to THE ICONIC’s Performance Footwear Buyer, Steven Waterhouse, finding the perfect pair of men’s running shoes starts with the fit. “This may seem like an obvious one, however, many don’t know that sizes between a casual versus a running shoe can differ,” Steven tellsnews.com.au. “Sizing up by at least a half-size is always a good idea to combat against swelling or expansion when running.”
Next, take the surfaces you’ll spend most of your time running on into consideration. If you’ll be galloping out a run on pavement, pick shoes with more cushioning and support. If rough terrain is more your thing, think about trail running shoes with more grip and ankle support. Here are the best men’s running shoes to get you started including the TikTok viral Hoka running shoes that has the internet obsessed.
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BEST ROAD RUNNING SHOES
If you love pounding the pavement, you’ll know first-hand how hard it can be on your joints. When selecting road running shoes, it’s important to opt for a pair with adequate support and ample cushioning that can absorb some of the impact.
On Cloudsurfer Mens, $249.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Specifically designed for running on the road, these joggers are beloved by runners worldwide. They’re super lightweight meaning that you won’t feel dragged down by the heavy shoe but they’re also super comfortable too.
Features include patented CloudTec® technology for a lightweight, performance enhancing fit, a surfboard inspired Speedboard® silhouette as well as sole technology that balances and supports your postural muscles.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 – Men’s, $259.95 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
These sneakers are made for running, with a specially made air mesh upper and the GuideRails holistic midsole support for maximum cushion and support.
Other features include breathable air mesh, 3D fit print and BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning.
One five-star reviewer said, “I haven’t bought Brooks runners for quite a few years. Recently I caught a glimpse of their new range and thought I would give them a go. I am VERY impressed.
“The cushioning and support are excellent. I walk/jog almost every day as I complete my 10,000 steps goal.
“I had no issue with the shoe, it fits like a glove and there was no irritation or discomfort. I did go up a size as I have orthotics and a heel raise.”
BEST TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
If you prefer the unpredictable terrain of the outdoors opposed to hopping on the treadmill, there are plenty of brilliant trail running shoes to choose from. To assist in bolting over slippery, uneven surfaces, picking shoes with enhanced grip and cushioned ankle support is key for safe trail runs.
Salomon Outpulse Gore-Tex Mens, $179.99 (down from $239.99) at The Athlete’s Foot
What You Need To Know
French brand Salomon is renowned for its shoes that are designed to navigate outdoor terrain.
These runners have serious grip as well as features like protective toecaps, OrthoLite sockliner and fuse surge for dynamic stride.
They’re also made from water repellent GORE-TEX mesh upper for ultimate comfort when in the great outdoors.
“These were phenomenal, I had maybe one day of achy feet due to breaking them in and then everyday after that was amazing. These were by the far the comfiest shoe I have ever wore,” wrote one five-star review on Google.
Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 – Men’s, $133 (down from 190) at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
These Nike runners are designed to keep you comfortable through all your outdoor adventures with features like heel-to-toe Nike React foam and cushioning designed to move with you.
Made from textile and mesh materials that are super breathable, the runners also have waterproof GORE-TEX weather protection. They also feature a higher ankle gaiter keeping your foot further off the ground and away from puddles.
“These shoes give the perfect amount of firm support in combination with enough cushion and comfort to go for a quality run without any discomfort or pain,” said one five-star review on Google.
BEST HYBRID SHOES (FOR ROAD AND TRAIL RUNNING)
Have an affinity for both trail runs and road jogs? Behold, hybrid shoes are your best bet. Combining the padding of a road shoe with the grip and stability of a trail run shoe, these options rise to all occasions.
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 Mens, $279.99 at The Athlete’s Foot
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, Deputy Editor
After running in these a few times, and admittedly getting used to how big the shoes are, I’m in love.
It honestly feels like running on a cloud.
They do everything a good running shoe should do: provide comfort, stability and cushioning – and has actually made me look forward to running knowing that I won’t have my usual aches and pains after a run.
Hoka Clifton 9 – Men’s, $259.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
These lightweight runners are designed for everyday runs, giving you support alongside propulsive cushioning to keep you moving forward.
Features include an ultralight compression midsole, a breathable engineered mesh upper, a soft padded tongue, and a refined pull tab for easy entry. The outsoles have also been recently redesigned to boost durability.
TikTokers rave about these shoes. The #hoka and #hokaclifton9 have 547.3 million and 10.5 million views respectively.
TikToker @alexsolominfitness calls theses shoes the “most comfortable shoe” he has ever tried and that it’s like “you’re gliding on clouds”.
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Originally published as The best men’s running shoes for every terrain
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