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Men interested in leaning out and improving gains have an invested interest in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises. As an extremist, you require the best running shoes for men that will endure the brutality of your exercise routine. With dozens of brands and hundreds of individualized options, finding the one built correctly for your method is no easy feat.
Best Running Shoes Comparison Table
We built this guide to help all men narrow down the selection explicitly based on individualized needs. Finding the best running shoes for men shouldn't have to be a hassle, which is why we've made the decision-making process more comfortable for you. Learn how to shop for the best shoes and where to buy a reliable pair for yourself using this guide as your navigation tool.
Product FAQ
What Are the Best Running Shoes for Men?
Before searching for the best running shoes for men, consider the activities being performed in them. Men who only perform light cardio exercises may not need the same high-performing shoes as marathon runners and HIIT enthusiasts. Look into the tread, sole and overall insulation to help determine which shoe works ideally.
What Should You Look for in a Pair of Sneakers for Light Cardio Exercises?
Men interested only in light cardio often need sneakers with less function than those involved in sports running, marathons, and rugged workouts. At a minimum, the best running shoes for men who do light cardio workouts will offer breathability, an arch-support midsole, a removable sole for alternative replacements and a bootie-like construction that is form-fitting to the foot.
What Should You Look for in a Pair of Running Shoes for Marathons and HIIT?
The best pair of running shoes for men interested in marathons, HIIT activities, or other long-distance, intense cardio will require a pair of sneakers with a much larger amount of support than the light cardio performer. Running shoes should have a bootie-like construction that contours to the foot with a comfortable midsole built for the arches of the feet. A sneaker made with extra traction helps to grip on- and off-road terrain with little issue which is necessary for longer runs with unpredictable conditions.
Approximately How Long Will Running Shoes Last?
Durability is critical when investing in a pair of sneakers. The best running shoes for men will last between a year or two of steady use before a replacement pair is necessary. If your shoes do not last that long, it may be best to upgrade to a higher performing shoe that is built for your exact activities.
Where Can You Buy Running Shoes?
Amazon features a wide selection of shoes for men, mostly at a reasonably discounted price when compared to other websites. While specific pairs may be available for purchase directly through each company's website, it is not guaranteed since most models are replaced seasonally. Prices are often steeper when purchased on the company website. Budget-seekers investing in the best running shoes for men may find Amazon's prices are more competitive, fitting more uniformly into a tight budget.
How We Reviewed
Our team of experts independently reviewed each pair of sneakers based on features, pros and cons, and their price. We also considered various cardio and running exercises to help provide a range of sneakers that perform slightly differently. No matter the budget or the running shoes needed, there is a sneaker for every man on this list.
Overall Price Range of the Best Running Shoes
Image from Pixabay
Pricing for the best running shoes for men differs based on the brand and overall quality of the shoes. However, it's important to avoid basing your choice on cost alone, as the brand name of the shoe may raise the price significantly more than the actual quality of the shoe. Keep this in mind when purchasing the best running shoes for men to avoid overpaying.
These shoes cost between $60 and $350 on Amazon. Light cardio performers should lean toward the double-digit range while those involved in more intense workouts will probably want to invest in a pair that costs over $100.
What We Reviewed
New Balance 890v6
- REVlite Midsole
- Bootie Construction
- No-sew material application
Features
The New Balance 890v6 features a RevLite midsole that is designed with a strategically placed outsole that improves your run drastically, making you feel faster and lighter. Men interested in a mesh-design find these to be appealing and form-fitting, providing a custom-like fit with an added forefoot design to improve engagement and responsiveness with the road.
PROS
CONS
Brooks Ghost 11
- The Brooks Ghost 11 running shoe features a lightweight construction and a smoother ride from heel to toe so you can...
- Predecessor: Ghost 10.
- Support Type: Neutral.
Features
The Brooks Ghost 11 sneakers provide a lightweight, mesh material that stretches to conform to your foot and provides comfortable breathability during long-stretch runs. Featuring a lace-up closure and a plush collar and tongue, the Brooks Ghosts help men feel more agile and lightweight, making it perfect for HIIT and long marathon runs. It also offers a medium to high arch selection for the best fit.
PROS
CONS
Asics DynaFlyte 3
- I.G.S (IMPACT GUIDANCE SYSTEM) TECHNOLOGY: ASICS design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's...
- REARFOOT GEL BRAND TECHNOLOGY CUSHIONING SYSTEM: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition...
- AHAR OUTSOLE: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional...
Features
Asics DynaFlyte 3 are the next evolution in the DynaFlyte line, designed to be more comfortable, lighter, and more flexible than the previous generations. The shoe features a new FlyteFoam Lyte Midsole designed to increase the shoes' durability and help improve your rebound. It is accompanied by a heel-to-toe gel cushioning guaranteed to help you run faster.
PROS
CONS
Reebok Floatride Run
- One Piece Ultra-knit Upper - Offers a comfortable and well ventilated fit.
- Soft Tongue - Allows the laces to hold tightly without creating any blisters or discomfort.
- Supportive 3D Heel Cradle - Specially contoured to help eliminate heel irritation.
Features
The Reebok Floatride Run sneakers offer a well-ventilated fit with their one-piece ultra-knit material, making them some of the best running shoes for men this year. The shoe features a supportive 3D Heel Cradle that contours explicitly to your foot, eliminating irritation to the heel during HIIT exercises or long runs. Reebok went even further by adding both a Floatride Foam Technology and EVA Foam Rim that help men balance and center the soles of their feet and add a responsive feel.
PROS
CONS
Saucony Liberty ISO
- Break free from boring basics with the ready-to-run Saucony Liberty ISO running shoe.
- Predecessor: None.
- Support Type: Stability, moderate pronation.
Features
The Saucony Liberty ISO sneakers have a revolutionary fit system made with IsoFit technology that provides a more customized feel. Perform better with smoother landings and stronger takeoffs with the Evenrun Technology, a breakthrough cushioning design. This shoe performs well for most conditions and will provide better stability for marathon or cross-country runners.
PROS
CONS
Saloman S/Lab Ultra 2
- Premium Wet Traction Contagrip Outsole<
- Profeel Film Chassis<
- Dual Density Compressed EVA<
Features
Saloman S/Lab Ultra 2 are made for wet conditions which makes them some of the best running shoes for men. We believe these are some of the best shoes for HIIT workouts, CrossFit, and long marathons. These shoes feature a skin guard that prevents water leakage and helps you grip the ground. The shoe has a Profeel Film chassis that helps improve the roll off from heel-to-toe and features an EnergyCell Plus midsole for high rebound.
PROS
CONS
Adidas Solarboost
- Weight: 11 ounces (size 9); Midsole drop: 10 mm (heel: 32 mm / forefoot: 22 mm); Runner type: Neutral shoes offer...
- Boost is our most responsive cushioning ever: The more energy you give, the more you get
- Tailored Fiber Placement offers stitched-in reinforcement for targeted support at midfoot; Techfit upper is engineered...
Features
The Adidas Solarboost features four neutral color designs to give every man his dream pair of shoes that can match most outfits. These low-top sneakers offer flexibility and versatility with the company's most responsive cushioning design. Built with Techfit technology, these shoes have a natural feel to them, providing men with a sock-like fit.
PROS
CONS
New Balance Sonic FuelCore
- 6 Mm Drop**
- Boa Fit System
- Bootie Construction
Features
New Balance offers a quality shoe without its customers having to pay too much. The Sonic FuelCore sneakers are some of the best running shoes for men, built with REVlite midsole and a form-fitting bootie construction that helps to improve your run by adding flexibility and durability. These shoes are considered lightweight and comprise a 6mm drop for a comfortable fit around the ankle.
PROS
CONS
361 Strata 2
- Take your run to a whole new atmosphere with the 361 Degrees Strata 2.
- Mesh and synthetic upper.
- Lace-up closure.
Features
The 361 Strata 2 running shoes were built specifically for distance with QU!KFOAM midsoles that create a smooth and responsive stride. They also made this sneaker with an arch bridge for your heel to help those with a severe overpronator along with medial postings to help increase your resistance to road elements. Men looking for a high level of cushioning and maximum stability will be interested in these sneakers.
PROS
CONS
On Running Mens Cloudflyer
- On Inc Mens Cloudflyer, Black/White, 9.5 D(M) US
Features
The On Running Mens Cloudflyer features a synthetic, mesh textile built for better durability and breathability during long runs. This sneaker features the 12 Cloud elements midsole, a technology established by Zero-Gravity, that provides some of the most superior cushioning on the market for running shoes. These help to stabilize your body while also remaining lightweight to help you maintain your energy during long runs.
PROS
CONS
Mizuno Wave Rider 21
- Cloud wave offers a soft, lively, and lightweight feel
- Engineered Mesh Upper for a sock like yet breathable fit
- u4iCx cushioning enhances cloudlike feel
Features
The Mizuno Wave Rider is named after the CLOUDWAVE technology inside the soles, providing guidance, maintaining energy, and adding shock absorption. The shoe fits snuggly to the foot with the Mizuno Dynomotion Fit technology inside the triple zone engineered mesh material. This helps to increase movement, breathability, and hold during vigorous workouts or long runs.
PROS
CONS
Hoka One One Clifton 4
- Moderate heel bevel provides smooth heel transition
- Full EVA midsole provides signature HOKA ONE ONE cushioning
- Early stage Meta-Rocker for smooth ride
Features
The Hoka One One brand brings the next generation in shoe wear for runners with its Clifton 4, featuring a lightweight mesh that supports better breathability. This shoe is also available in a broader fit for those who have fuller feet, enhancing and promoting comfort for men of all sizes. These also feature a SpeedFrame construction that helps reduce foot irritation during strenuous workouts or long runs.
PROS
CONS
Nike Epic React Flyknit
- Model Number: AQ0067001
- Gender: mens
- Color: BLACK/DARK GREY
Features
The Nike Epic React Flyknit features a construction wrap fit with a mesh design for a more natural movement and better breathability. It also has a Nike React foam outsole, providing a smooth and responsive run for long distances or intense workouts. Like all Nike shoes, this is built with superior comfort and an engineered fit with elastic yams to hold the foot into place.
PROS
CONS
Altra Escalante
- Ideal uses: running, racing, training
- Designed to improve: Running Form, Toe Splay, Stability, Push-off, Comfort, Traction
- Zero drop platform, stack height: 25mm
Features
The Altra Escalante helps improve performance through the Altra Ego midsole that's designed to contour your foot as you run. Men who need arch support enjoy this shoe for its sock-like fit mesh material. This shoe works great for distance runners or for light cardio, but it may not withstand strenuous HIIT workouts that require excessive movement.
PROS
CONS
APL TechLoom Breeze
- Fabric: Knit
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up at top
Features
APL TechLoom Breeze features a brand new silhouette from the company that provides a high elastic stretch to help your feet deliver a better rebound with each step. These shoes were designed to maximize energy and to provide superior comfort. The shoes forgo the standard EVA midsole for an APL proprietary Propelium Technology designed to provide better support and maximize runners' energy.
PROS
CONS
The Verdict
After extensively reviewing hundreds of sneakers on the market, the 15 above are the best running shoes for men this year. We believe this list has a few standouts that indeed reign in the competition, including the Saloman S/Lab Ultra 2, which is the best overall; the New Balance Sonic V2 FuelCore shoes, which are the best running shoes for men on a tight budget; and the APL TechLoom Breeze sneakers, which are the best shoes for marathons and HIIT.
While these are our top three, we believe any of the running shoes on this list will be suitable for men in need of a quality sneaker. Price isn't everything; if one shoe can do the same thing for you at a slightly lower price, it's best to go that route.
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