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Best running shoes: 18 tried and tested picks to up your hot girl run game
We put fitness footwear through its paces
Running shoes have got to be the MVP of our fitness wardrobe – whether you're looking for trainers to help you achieve a marathon goal or are getting back into Couch to 5k for the fifth time (...just us?), a swanky new pair of high-performance running trainers can be just the thing you need to add a little pep back to your step.
But finding the perfect trainers for jogging, sprinting, long-distance runs or the treadmill can be easier said than done. Without getting professional advice or taking them out for a test run, it can be tough to make sure your chosen pair have the right fit and enough bounce and cushioning.
To help you find the running shoes that are right for you. without getting those new-shoe blisters, Team Cosmopolitan has tested the top running shoes around right now. From Nike to New Balance, ASICS to Adidas, we've put these pairs through their paces to find you the best trainers to shop with confidence.
Check out our writers' and editors' reviews below to help you find your perfect pair, and don't forget to shop our round-up of the best sports bras for big boobs and exercise underwear too. On your period? No stress with this period activewear.
Now get out there and run Forrest, run!
"I used to interview athletes, and was told that, for running, ASICS is the best. I am not an athlete, I hate running (I keep it up in case there’s a zombie apocalypse) but can attest these trainers do make it easier. They’re so bouncy!
"They have special foam that guides your foot to the best landing, and a high cushioned gel heal. All that tech makes them chunky so they’re not the prettiest, but they make my self-hating jogs more fun which is much more important in my eyes."
Catriona, Commissioning Director
"Whoever named these shoes needs a raise because these genuinely feel like running on clouds. As someone currently training for a marathon, the intense foam cushioning and rocker shaped sole meant I bounced and sprung my way through a regular run helping to shave minutes off my usual time.
"They are also super lightweight so would be great for anyone looking to work on their tempo, although definitely size up as they are quite a snug fit!"
- Amy, SEO Executive
"A firm favourite with RunTok, HOKA makes beautiful shoes and the Clifton 9 is no exception. This style happens to be super comfy, too, which is not surprising when they come with The Royal College of Podiatry's stamp of approval.
"Perfect for road running and walking, my favourite thing about these shoes is their versatility. I'll happily walk around in them all day before heading out for a run, whereas I wouldn't choose to go walking in some of my bulkier trainers. That being said, HOKAs do come up narrow; this paired with the high arch means they won't suit everyone. As someone who loves a narrower fit, however, these are right up my street.
"Our Entertainment Editor, Dusty, who recently tried a pair, also liked the shoes but noted the heavy cushioning takes some getting used to. But in good news, she praised the rocker shaped sole that propels you forward as well as the lightweight design. We'd both recommend sizing up (half a size if you ask Dusty, or perhaps even a full size, if you ask me)."
- Amber, Junior Features Writer
"This is an all-rounder running shoe – with a pillowy cushioned sole and durable rubber outsole, it works for both long distance and treadmill interval workouts. They’ve got a bit of an 80s look about them – especially with pops of neon – so I like to pretend I’m Jane Fonda when exercising in them: anything to not think about the workout at hand.
"They’re carbon footprint considerate, with some elements made from renewable resources. FYI, they come up a bit narrow, but I like its snug and structured fit for sprints."
- Anna, Site Director
"These lightweight trainers are a solid choice if you’re seeking sturdy support and a bouncy, cushiony rebound. They’re designed for trail runs so the Vibram sole provides secure slip-resistance. I felt like I was running on air, plus, no sore feet post-run.
"The unique design and splashes of colour immediately caught my eye, but whilst they started off crisp and white, they’ve quickly attracted dirt over a few wears. Saving these for my upcoming spring and summer runs."
- Jaime, Digital Design Editor
"After a few months off running due to an injury (thank you shin splints), I was itching to get back in a pair of trainers, and tried out ASICS’ new Novablast 4s for my first few gentle runs back. I don’t want to sound cliched but these trainers literally felt like running on clouds. Created with an FF BLAST™ ECO PLUS foam to make a softer energised experience for your runs, the trainers feel incredibly lightweight and provide enough bounce, while also leaving your feet supported.
"I don’t have particularly wide feet, but I like my feet to have enough space to breathe and stretch out while running, which the slightly wider design of the Novablast 4s really allowed for. I’ve been using the oatmeal colour for my runs, which while look amazing, have got me slightly nervous about doing any runs off the beaten track. So if you’re often running in muddy conditions, I would opt for the black pair."
- Lydia, Senior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer
"I enjoy a 5k outdoor run just as much as a HIIT treadmill sprint session, so I was on the hunt for an all-rounder running trainer that could cater to both, and these have ticked the boxes (although, I will say they are probably less geared toward sprints than longer distance due to the shape).
"Incredibly light, the midsole is made from a foam called Dreamstrike+ which couldn’t be more accurate because, honestly, they’re some of the comfiest, dreamiest trainers I’ve ever worn. They’re super soft and bouncy underfoot (but not too spongy) for buffered landings, while the cushioning in and underneath the heel adds maximum support, particularly if you’re a heel-striker. A word of warning - if you’re in between sizes, go up half a size as they do come up a little small."
- Zoe, Acting Deputy Editor
"Brooks is a favourite with runners (no, seriously, every time I visit a specialist shop and ask about their bestsellers, Brooks is always high on the list) and it's easy to see why after trying my first pair. Soft without being too spongy, supportive without being too rigid, and comfortable (even on longer runs), they're a really solid training shoe.
"They're a tad wide (great if you prefer a roomy feel) but that's never stopped me from picking them up regularly, especially for dark evening runs (as I opted for the super bright Ebony/Nightlife colour way). Obvs, I'd still recommend wearing reflective and high-vis clothing to make sure you're as visible as possible, but I definitely feel safer knowing I'm decked out in bright colours from head to toe."
- Amber, Junior Features Writer
"I’m not a long-distance runner, but I squeeze a few 5ks on top of HIIT training. The latest offering from AllBirds, then, was super comfortable thanks to their ‘Bouncy SwiftFoam’ technology, which literally puts a spring in your step and keeps your feet cushioned for runs of any length. I normally go for a sportier, more technical look but these were so comfortable that they’ve really grown on me."
- Kimberley, Features Writer
"While not a regular runner, when I do drag myself out of bed and to the muddy terrains of Epping Forest, a sturdy pair of running shoes is at the top of my checklist when leaving the house; though, I’m sure most shoes would suffice over a barefoot but hey, who am I to judge? And for said run, the sturdy asics GEL-Trabuco 11 GTX’s are my go-to choice of footwear.
"Not only am I able to run (albeit slowly and while out-of-breath) over gravel, grass and concrete in these but I can do so with ease and sans pain. Not only that but the durability and firm feel – in equal parts – keep my plantar fasciitis at bay (IYKYK).
"However, if you are forking out to invest in a pair of these, be mindful of the fit. I would say that I am a true size 7 (and am in both Nike and New Balance shoes) but these were a tight squeeze… aka, my toes at the very top of the shoe. So, with that in mind, I would recommend sizing up."
- Lia, Beauty Assistant
"lululemon's Blissfeel 2.0 running trainers are the activewear brand's first update to their original running shoe offering, the Blissfeel, and this time around, the trainers have been re-designed to provide even greater support for your feet (via contouring technology). The shoes are now also available in a greater choice of colours, including black and white, but in all honesty I love the neon flashes of the grey-highlighter yellow option.
"In terms of distance, the Blissfeel 2.0s aren't designed to carry you through a marathon, but are a solid choice for those who are new to running, who enjoy dabbling in the odd 5k or who keep their running mostly to a gym treadmill. The shoes were comfortable, looked cool and my feet felt securely locked in during the testing phase – and I'm happy to report no blisters occurred either (all of which is to be expected, right? Given that lululemon state over four years of research and development went into these bad boys, with over a million foot scans being examined in the process, and that the female foot in particular was at the forefront of it all)."
- Jennifer, Features Editor
PS: those with wider feet should consider going up half a size, and don't forget that lululemon's shoes have US sizing (so be sure to measure your feet and cross reference it with the UK size chart on site)
"While not quite my top pick in terms of style (although if it was up to me, I'd be running in sequin leopard print...), I can't fault the Merrell Skyfire 2 running trainers in terms of performance. They're very light on the feet with a sole made for rough terrain – there's plenty of grip on these bad boys.
"These shoes tick my ethical boxes (they're vegan and made from recycled materials) and were great on my run around the park. I probably didn't put test their full potential – I'm not as hardcore as some runners – but they were definitely cool, comfortable and the envy of my friends. I heard 'ooh, are those Merrells?!' more than once."
- Isabella, Branded Content Editor
"The bounce in these trainers is incredible, I had a spring in my step before I’d even left the flat. I’m a newbie to running – following my partner on his Couch to 5k runs, just to join in really – and things like a springy sole feel really important, as I welcome all the help and motivation I can get.
"Salomon are also known for their cool design, becoming a bit of a fashion ‘it’ trainer in their own right, and I’d happily wear this baby blue pair on a normal day. One of my favourite parts of the design though has got to be the drawstring toggle fastening, in place of standard laces. I love it. So much less faffy than laces and I felt more secure out on my run, without the worry of them coming undone or loosening.
"Designed for long distance running, thanks to the grip sole, overall, these are lightweight, super comfortable with a supportive cushioned ankle and the best springy sole I’ve experienced running."
- Sophie, Bookings Editor
"I try and buy all my clothes second-hand, but for a shoe that's going to mould to my feet... unless it's unused, a heavily used pair is probably not great for my gait. Enter Salomon's INDEX 02 running shoe, the brand's second pair of completely recyclable shoes. Yep, completely – these shoes are made to be easy to disassemble so you can recycle every element when they're worn out.
"The INDEX 02 were incredibly lightweight on the feet, and felt cool and comfortable during my runs. They had great bounce and were really comfortable from the first wear. The only downside? These probably aren't the best shoes for constant use – Salomon recommend wearing these for one run a week – but they're a great addition to my fitness wardrobe."
- Isabella, Branded Content Editor
"I am obsessed with these trainers. I downloaded the Couch to 5k app during the first lockdown and having never been a runner before, I now try and go at least twice a week.
"I was a bit dubious when I first unboxed these as they are SO lightweight I was worried they wouldn't be supportive enough, but they were actually a dream. The rubberless sole and breathable upper material feels durable, well-cushioned and good quality, while making the shoes feel light, flexible and fast. The real bonus for me was the tech element, though. I couldn't get my (personal) Android phone to pair however hard I tried, but my (work) Apple phone paired easily in seconds. The trainers connect with the MapMyRun app and promise to track and analyse your running metrics to help make you a better runner. But, as someone who already runs with an Apple Watch and the Couch to 5k app, adding another app felt a bit overkill and I questioned whether the shoes would really deliver anything new. Man, was I wrong!
"While the calorie estimate seemed a bit off (as in 200 more than my Apple Watch estimate), the data in the app is brilliant. It tracks everything from distance, route, pace, heart rate and calories, to cadence and 'foot strike angle' (how your foot hits the ground). After just one run, the app has suggested my stride length is too long, which can cause shin and calf issues, and runner's knee – both problems I am struggling with – and make running feel harder than it has to. Instead, it's given me detailed instructions on how to correct my technique and I can't wait to put the advice into practice!"
- Claire, Editor in Chief
"If, like me, you don’t consider yourself a 'trainers wearer' and use sports shoes exclusively for exercise, you probably also prefer a running shoe which keeps it classy. Nike’s Air Zoom range, with its elegant silhouettes and tasteful colour palettes fulfil everything I need, aesthetically speaking, from a running shoe.
"I like to tie my running shoes pretty tight – it’s the only way I’ve found to avoid blisters, and that usually ends up in aches and pains where the tongue of the shoe meets the top of my foot. But the soft stretch of the material across the toe box and tongue meant that I could comfortably tie my laces as tight as necessary without feeling pain at the end of a run. Nike suggest jumping up a size but as an 8-9 who trialled the size 8, these feel pretty true-to-size.
"These sleek little beauties boast ‘responsive foam’ which Nike claims gives your run an extra boost. And, while they weren’t quite as springy as other running shoes I’ve tried, they definitely gave my strides an extra lift, which is somehow... motivational? It certainly feels like the more work you put into these bad boys, the more you get back. After a couple of runs I began to realise I was looking forward to working out specifically because it meant getting to wear these again – a mark of any good running shoe if you ask me."
- Kate, former Senior Beauty Writer
"Following a recent calf injury, which saw me go from running 150k a month to barely being able to do five, I went to get my gait analysed.
"The expert recommended Adidas Ultraboosts, thanks to the springy-yet-stiff design and supportive sock-like construction. While these trainers are a little heavier than I was used to (thanks to the dense foam bottom), they’re really comfortable for shorter recovery runs, and are definitely the best looking running shoes I've ever owned."
Dusty, Entertainment Editor
"I don’t think I would have made it through London’s multiple lockdowns without my park and canal jogs to keep me sane. This pair from The North Face, created especially for more unpredictable trail terrain, felt like a treat compared to my beat up old trainers, which are probably meant for smooth pavement. I felt like I was properly gripping the grass with every stride, and wasn’t going to lose my footing.
"Plus, they just look bloody cool - sort of a hard thing to nail with trainers. My theory is that if I kit myself out in cheerful, happy colours, I might feel that much more motivated to get up and get moving.
"They feel super lightweight and springy, and were comfortable right away. I didn’t notice until I got home that a small blister had formed on each ankle, but I’m chalking that up to my old socks. I’m a big fan of these."
- Maddy, Shopping Editor
"Veja’s newly released Condor 3’s are the perfect pair of running shoes for the everyday runner. Made with sustainable materials, these are shoes you can trust to last and are proven to do more mileage than most other brands out there. I found them very comfortable with a good cushion and decent bounce, although they do run small so definitely size up to find your perfect fit. They were great for a steady 5k with no niggles or pains so would serve as an ideal choice for easy sessions or beginner runners."
- Amy, SEO Executive
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
Jennifer Savin is Cosmopolitan UK's multiple award-winning Features Editor, who was crowned Digital Journalist of the Year for her work tackling the issues most important to young women. She regularly covers breaking news, cultural trends, health, the royals and more, using her esteemed connections to access the best experts along the way. She's grilled everyone from high-profile politicians to A-list celebrities, and has sensitively interviewed hundreds of people about their real life stories. In addition to this, Jennifer is widely known for her own undercover investigations and campaign work, which includes successfully petitioning the government for change around topics like abortion rights and image-based sexual abuse. Jennifer is also a published author, documentary consultant (helping to create BBC’s Deepfake Porn: Could You Be Next?) and a patron for Y.E.S. (a youth services charity). Alongside Cosmopolitan, Jennifer has written for The Times, Women’s Health, ELLE and numerous other publications, appeared on podcasts, and spoken on (and hosted) panels for the Women of the World Festival, the University of Manchester and more. In her spare time, Jennifer is a big fan of lipstick, leopard print and over-ordering at dinner. Follow Jennifer on Instagram, X or LinkedIn.
Isabella is a freelance journalist who has written on young women's issues, entertainment, TV and film, South Asian representation, mental health, dating and so much more. She has bylines in ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Prima, Digital Spy, Women's Health, and Harper's Bazaar, and was named 30 Under 30 by MediaWeek, PPA and We Are The City. She was also shortlisted for Workplace Hero at the Investing In Ethnicity Awards and Hero of the Year at the European Diversity Awards. Follow Isabella on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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