Travel Products Style Shoes Sneakers The 15 Best Running Shoes for Women of 2023 The winners provide a cushioned run and excellent traction. By Rozalynn S. Frazier Rozalynn S. Frazier Instagram Rozalynn S. Frazier is an award-winning, multimedia journalist, NASM-certified personal trainer, and behavior change specialist living in New York City. She has over 20 years of writing and editing experience and is a frequent traveler. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 3, 2023 Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist and editor who has traveled across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and spent more than a decade reviewing hotel room. Travel + Leisure Fact Checking Process Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Tips for Buying FAQ Why Trust T+L We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Travel + Leisure / David Hattan Not every running shoe works for every foot shape. Pair that with parsing factors like a shoe’s weight, the amount of cushioning, support level, energy return, breathability, durability, and traction, and choosing the right shoe feels daunting. And although the type of shoe you choose won’t prevent injury, “this does not mean that a shoe cannot contribute to an injury," explains Paul Langer, a board certified podiatrist with Twin Cities Orthopedics, author of "Great Feet for Life," and a partner at Fleet Feet Minneapolis. And then there is the very personal matter of comfort, which is one of the most important qualities to look for in a shoe. In this guide, you’ll find some of everything — best-selling running shoes for women as reported by running brands; recs from running coaches, running researchers, and podiatrists; as well as some fresh-to-market picks with the latest in athletic innovation. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Treadmills: On Running Cloudflow Shoes at Amazon Jump to Review Best Trail Runners: Saucony Women's Hiking Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best Hybrid: Altra Trail Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best Cushioning: Nike Women's Road Running Shoes at Dick's Jump to Review Best for Neutral Runners: New Balance SuperComp Trainer at Zappos Jump to Review Best Budget: Brooks Running Launch GTS 9 at Amazon Jump to Review Best All-black: Adidas Women's Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Narrow Feet: Lululemon Blissfeel Women's Running Shoe at Lululemon Jump to Review Best for Overpronators: Hoka Arahi 6 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Asics Women's Gel-Nimbus 25 4.8 Zappos View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Love It It’s got excellent shock absorption, a breathable build, and sustainability cred thanks to an upper made from recycled materials. What to Consider It’s a neutral runner, so those seeking more foot support may find the right fit elsewhere. This year the Asics Nimbus — one of the brand’s hallmark running shoes — turns the big 25. To celebrate this milestone birthday, the shoe has undergone a major overhaul. I was one of the early wear testers, logging miles in an iteration of this Nimbus nearly a year before its release in February 2023. With this bouncier version, I can assure you you’ll feel good through lots of lengthy miles. Here’s why: It ups the cushioning through a large foam midsole and an embedded piece of gel in the heel for better shock absorption, all of which leads to a smoother, cushier ride. There’s also a much more durable outsole and a new breathable knit upper that swathes the top of the foot. Designed for neutral and underpronators and average to high arches, this is a great pick that can accommodate a variety of runners, including newbies who will appreciate having maximum cushioning as they find their stride. There are 12 colors to choose from, such as an electric pink and a soft cream. The Gel-Nimbus 25 is also available in wide widths, though color options are much more limited. Price at time of publish: $160 The Details: 5-13 | 9.2 ounces | 8 millimeter drop Best for Treadmills On Running Cloudflow Shoes Zappos View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Love It These lightweight runners are designed to return your energy to you. What to Consider This model is moderately cushioned, so if a plush, cushy feel is what you seek, you may want to opt for another shoe. Slogging along on the treadmill can feel monotonous, which may lead you to feeling wiped out faster. That’s where shoes like the On Running CloudFlow come in. The energy-returning pods lining the outsole make this pair super responsive, adding a bit of a pop to every step. The result: Your mechanical-based miles feel a little less tiring and a bit more effortless. An upper made of 70 percent recycled polyester earns points for being eco-friendly. Bonus: The sleek, stylish design, which comes in seven fun hues, offers crossover fashion appeal. Price at time of publish: $223 The Details: 5-11 | 6.9 ounces | 9 millimeter drop Best Trail Runners Saucony Women's Peregrine 13 Hiking Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On REI Why We Love It The grippy outsole and rock guard are ready for anything. What to Consider This neutral trail shoe may not provide the support some need or crave. When you’re going off-road, you want something that can not only handle the terrain but thoroughly conquer it. The latest version of the Peregrine does just that. It has a super grippy 5-millimeter lugged outsole that digs in and can tackle technical downhills, traverse stretches of gravel, and even help you run your way up rocky climbs. And the rock guard protects the feet against sharp objects you may uncover on the run. There are regular and wide widths available, plus multiple weather and terrain-specific versions — GTX (wet weather), ST (muddy conditions), and ICE + (snow and ice) — to help you add an element of customization. Its light weight and fast feel can potentially help offset a slogfest through the trails. Price at time of publish: $140 The Details: 5-12 | 8.1 ounces | 4 millimeter drop Best Hybrid Altra Women’s Outroad Trail Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On REI View On Altrarunning.com Why We Love It Despite a snug midfoot shape, it’s roomy forefoot allows for toe splay. What to Consider These are touted as having a slim foot shape, so those accustomed to Altra’s typically wide surface area may be disappointed. A fairly new silhouette for Altra, this hybrid sneaker, which fits like a traditional road shoe but has the traction of a trail shoe, offers runners the best of both worlds: a shoe that works for on-road and off-road miles with equal parts cushioning and support. You’ll have to do a bit of compromising in this pick — meaning they aren’t meant to conquer super technical terrain. They do, however, hold their own on gravel and soft dirt, so you’ll be prepared for most new running destinations. And since the outsole lugs aren’t overly aggressive, the Outroad won’t compromise your road running. Price at time of publish: $140 The Details: 5.5-12 | 8.8 ounces Best Cushioning Nike Invincible 3 Women's Road Running Shoes Nike View On Dick's View On Nike.com Why We Love It It’s super cushy without sacrificing support or springy responsiveness. What to Consider Some think the bulky bit of foam may make going super fast challenging. Three years after its original debut, the Swoosh is back with the latest iteration of the Invincible 3, a max cushioned daily trainer that works well for high-mileage folks and those looking for a bouncy feel during long, easy runs. With this season’s version, which boasts a sleeker design than its two predecessors, the heel clip is smaller and the midsole wider. You can also expect more of everything: cushioning, responsiveness, and support. Nike has also tweaked the upper on this shoe, making it more breathable but also stronger to help keep that foot locked in. Price at time of publish: $180 The Details: 5-12 | 9 ounces | 9 millimeter drop Best for Neutral Runners New Balance SuperComp Trainer Zappos View On Zappos View On Dick's View On Newbalance.com Why We Love It They’re really soft and comfortable. What to Consider It’s heavier than you might expect for a carbon-fiber-plated super shoe, and the ankle collar (literally) rubs some folks the wrong way. While the SuperComp Trainer thrives during long runs — its foam is super snappy and pushes you forward so you feel like you can (almost) run forever — its versatility allows it to handle shorter, faster runs with just as much ease. Ashley Mateo, a UESCA- and RRCA-certified running coach and avid runner, is a really big fan of this max-cushioned trainer because it’s “lightweight and responsive.” She also notes that she sported it for the NYC Marathon in 2022, and “it felt incredible the whole way”— which is no small claim for a 26.2-mile jaunt through five boroughs. Price at time of publish: $180 The Details: 5-12 | 10.5 ounces | 8 millimeter drop The Best Winter Running Gear of 2023 Best Budget Brooks Running Launch GTS 9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Academy.com Why We Love It The mesh upper feels light and breathable. What to Consider The latest model runs a little snugger than previous versions. It’s hard to believe that a shoe at this price can be considered a budget buy, but with runners going for multiple hundreds of dollars these days, the Launch GTS is much easier on your purse strings. But don’t let this “inexpensive” pick fool you. It’s a good quality shoe, one that Colleen Brough, an Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy program at Columbia University and Director of Columbia RunLab, has laced up to run in since they, well, launched in 2009. The latest version, the GTS 9, which has a higher midsole than previous versions, is positioned as lightweight yet durable and super speedy. Translation: It can handle your race days as well as your regular, everyday runs equally. There is also an element of support via Brooks’ guardrails that help keep feet from turning out. Price at time of publish: $90 The Details: 5-12 | 7.5 ounces | 10 millimeter drop Best All-black Adidas Women's Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Adidas.com Why We Love It Unlike its predecessor, this version is female-specific. What to Consider While the higher heel collar is meant to be supportive, it may be uncomfortable for some. Women have narrower heels and lower ankle bones, and are more prone to bunions than men, Langer says. That means you can’t just “shrink and pink” a men’s running shoe to satisfy us. The Ultraboost 22 was created for women — built around a brand new last based on the foot scans of more than 1.2 million runners — by an all-women team. With this max cushioned trainer, you’ll find things like a narrower heel as well as a lower instep height. Plus, the thick Ultraboost midsole foam boasts a soft, bouncy ride with even more energy return while still allowing runners to feel stable during slower to moderately paced runs of varying length. P.S. If you aren’t a fan of the all-black option, don’t worry. There are plenty of cool colors to choose from. Price at time of publish: $79 The Details: 5-11 | 10 ounces Best for Narrow Feet Lululemon Blissfeel Women's Running Shoe Lululemon View On Lululemon Why We Love It The heel counter is reinforced on each side with plastic overlays, so it really helps lock the foot in. What to Consider These shoes run a bit small. The Blissfeel is Lululemon’s first foray into running shoes, and the apparel brand went all in, building a women’s-specific model. A neutral silhouette, this running shoe targets runners cranking out daily miles — and the max cushioning (32.5-millimeter stack height) is meant to make that time spent on their feet comfy and plush. The pressure-mapped outsole is also a plus because it ups the level of traction on the shoe. And if you happen to be someone whose feet get super sweaty on the run, the upper is moisture-wicking, which may help keep blisters at bay. You can even trial the Blissfeel for 30 days and if they don’t, um, bring you bliss, you can return them for a full refund. Keep in mind that in addition to being narrow, these shoes run a bit small. Consider sizing up if the width of your feet are average or wide. Price at time of publish: $148 The Details: 5-12 | 9.4 ounces | 9.5 millimeter drop Best for Overpronators Hoka Arahi 6 Running Shoe 4.5 Hoka View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Love It The heel tab makes it easier to get this shoe on and off. What to Consider This shoe seems to run smaller than previous versions. Gone are the days when a stability shoe had to be a total clunker to get the job done. In fact, shoes like Hoka’s Arahi 6, which comes in a regular and wide width, offer the guidance and support the foot needs over plenty of miles in a nice, lightweight package. There’s a lot of cushioning in this shoe, so it doesn’t feel overly stiff when your foot strikes the ground. We also like that the arrows on the sides of the shoe offer more than just a cool design element: They help make the Arahi 6 more breathable. The rocker-shaped midsole may also be a helpful tool for runners who’ve experienced ankle injuries, forefoot pain, or stress reactions at some point, Brough adds. Price at time of publish: $186 The Details: 5-12 | 7.6 ounces | 5 millimeter drop The 10 Best Insoles of 2023 Best for Recovery Miles Asics Women's Novablast 3 Running Shoes 3.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Asics.com Why We Love It The shoe’s upper is made with recycled materials. What to Consider It’s been said that the grip isn’t great in rainy weather. These days, it seems that the higher the foam the better, and the Asics Nova Blast 3 isn’t any exception. Newly redesigned, the third iteration of this shoe has a nice stack of cushioning (more than the Novablast 2) that feels extra bouncy on the run. This pair is also one ounce lighter than its predecessor, making it a nice compliment for recovery runs when legs are feeling heavy and tired. (Don’t worry, the Novablast can also take on long runs too!) Mateo says the shoe, which has a winged tongue to improve fit and cut down on movement, is one of her absolute favorites, and she feels “you cannot go wrong in this shoe.” Price at time of publish: $140 The Details: 5-12 | 7.8 ounces | 8 millimeter drop Best for Beginners Brooks Women’s Revel 6 Neutral Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Brooksrunning.com View On Dick's Why We Love It I spent a bit of time in the Revel, and I can say it’s super comfortable on foot — soft but not overly soft. What to Consider It doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles of the more expensive shoes. If you want a daily trainer that performs well while also offering a nice seamless ride, look to the Revel 6. It truly is a versatile workhorse that can see you through anything from a short race to a marathon. This latest version in particular is roomy while maintaining its sleekness, more breathable, and springier thanks to a tweak to the midsole. It also takes the environment into consideration with the silica used in the durable rubber outsole. Also noteworthy: If you are new to the sport, the Revel 6 is proof that you don’t have to shell out a bunch of cash to nab a solid running shoe. Price at time of publish: $100 The Details: 5-12 | 8.1 ounces | 10 millimeter drop Best for Supination Nike Women's Air Zoom Pegasus 39 Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Nike.com Why We Love It The added foam along the tongue offers a little bit of extra cushion along the top of the foot. What to Consider If overall cushioning is what you crave, this may not be your sole-mate. If you’re the type of person whose foot tends to roll outward when you’re running, you are a supinator or underpronator. Shoes like Nike’s super popular Pegasus, which boasts some cushioning, a supportive midsole, and a roomy toe-box, should be a go-to. (It’s also great for beginners!) In this iteration, which is durable enough for everyday use, be it on the road or the treadmill, there’s a fore and rear foot airbag that gives runners an extra bit of oomph (hello energy return) when on the move. We also love that there are 19 colors from which to choose. Price at time of publish: $109 The Details: 5-12 | 7.58 ounces | 10 millimeter drop Best Bluetooth-connected Under Armour Women's Flow Velociti Wind 2 Trainers Amazon View On Amazon View On Underarmour.com Why We Love It If overall cushioning is what you crave, this may not be your sole-mate. What to Consider Some runners may not feel “protected” enough while running in these. Raise your hand if you’re a data-driven consumer who lives by metrics. If so, the UA Velociti Wind 2 may be a good investment. Tucked into the midsole of the right shoe is a Bluetooth sensor that gathers pretty much everything about your running form (think cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and foot strike angle) to help you level up. This lightweight silhouette, which combines the midsole and outsole into one piece, also won’t weigh you down, making them perfect for sprints and fast-paced short runs. Price at time of publish: $103 The Details: 5-12 | 7.91 ounces | 8 millimeter drop Best for Stability Puma Run XX Nitro Zappos View On Zappos View On Dick's View On Puma.com Why We Love It The breathable upper is great for those who overheat due to sweaty feet. What to Consider The ride may feel a bit too stiff for some folks. This stability runner is not just named after the woman-specific double X chromosome DNA sequence, it’s actually been designed specifically for women’s feet. That means you should expect a narrower fit in the heel and around the arch and more surface area in the forefoot. Newbie runners, those in need of some support (there is a rubber strip around the heel to help encourage proper foot alignment), and women looking for a little speed can turn to this shoe for their daily miles. Price at time of publish: $130 The Details: 5.5-12 | 8.2 ounces | 8 millimeter drop Tips for Buying Running Shoes Know your foot shape and gait Comfort is associated with matching the foot shape to the shoe shape, says Langer, who notes that many stores now have 3D scanners that can very precisely measure the foot not just for length and width but also for volume and alignment. He also notes that shoes should not squeeze the toes together, and the more similar the shape of the toe box is to the shape of the foot, the less likely you are to have forefoot pain. When it comes to gait — how you run — this can be a factor in helping to determine if you need a shoe with more stability to control the inward roll of the foot, one that works to correct supination or a foot that rolls outward, or if a neutral shoe will do the trick. Adds Mateo, “Comfort is the number one thing that is going to feel different for everybody, You might love a really light, fast shoe and a flatter, firmer base. Whereas I like a really soft, cushioned, snappy shoe.” Consider the surfaces you’ll be running on While terrain does matter — as does your pace, Brough says— most everyday trainers can easily navigate and perform well across the board on the road, sidewalk, concrete, asphalt, track, and even a little dirt or gravel, according to Mateo. That said, there are things to consider, such as “if you are getting a faster shoe that doesn’t really have a true lug, you may want to be more careful with textured terrains because they won’t have as much grip,” Mateo says. “Those are meant for the road or the track.” Or if you are pounding the pavement, you may want a little more cushion. Again, your personal comfort is going to be the determining factor. Consider your injury profile When considering running shoe type, athletes should think about what their current injury profile or injury history is like, advises Brough. “If they have battled Achilles tendinosis, well we know that rocker bottom shoes help minimize the load across the Achilles tendon during running. There’s also less load at the forefoot with reduced work at the ankle joint,” she says. “If my female runners present with ankle injury or forefoot pain or stress reactions, I may suggest a rocker bottom shoe. On the other hand, if excessive pronation appears to be contributing to their injury, then I’d prescribe a stability shoe.” Frequently Asked Questions How long do running shoes last? While time can vary greatly based on the type of running shoe, a good measure is between 300 and 400 miles, Carson Caprara, VP, Footwear Product Management and Merchandising at Brooks Running, says. There are signs, though, that Caprara says can help signal that it may be time to trade in your running shoes, including portions of the rubber outsole being ground down to the foam, excessive wrinkles in the midsole foam, and the onset of knee and ankle pain during recent runs. You can also extend the life of shoes by alternating through a few pairs. How should running shoes fit? Things like a snug fit in the heel and arch and being slightly roomy in the forefoot area are so important to your comfort while running. Also, “feet can expand a half size or more during a run, so it is important to leave about a thumbnail of space between the tip of the big toe and the end of the shoe,” says Caprara. Also worth noting: “Comfort decreases from standing to walking to running,” Langer explains. “So if you plan on running in the shoes, you should run in them when comparing.” Are running shoes good for walking? Most running shoes make great walking shoes — which makes sense considering it’s essentially the same movement pattern. Langer also thinks running shoes are superior to walking shoes for four reasons:There are more models from which to choose, offering more fit and comfort options.Running shoes are often lighter.Running shoes are often more breathable.Running retail specialty shops are experts at fitting shoes for runners and walkers, especially in light of the fact that there aren’t really any walking specialty shops out there. How do I clean running shoes? Your running shoes are precious — hey, you’ve likely spent a pretty penny on them — and you should treat them as such. The best way to clean ‘em? Caprara suggests a toothbrush and/or cloth and soap and water, so steer clear of the washing machine. You want to avoid submerging the foam in water for extended periods of time, he says. If you’re tempted to throw them in the dryer, don’t. Caprara says it’s best to crumple up some newspaper, stuff it into the shoe, and place it outside for a day. Do you need to break in running shoes? Honestly, most shoes are good to go out of the box and require very little breaking in. Still, before you head out for a 10 miler straight away, slip your new shoes on, walk around a bit, and do some easy 1- to 2-mile runs, especially if you’ve been wearing a different shoe model. Why Trust Travel + Leisure Rozalynn Frazier is a NASM-certified personal trainer who has been writing about fitness, health and gear for more than 20 years; a 10-time marathoner; and an experienced wear-tester for multiple running shoe brands. In compiling our list of best running shoes for women, we also spoke with experts, including: Paul Langer, a board-certified podiatrist with Twin Cities Orthopedics and author of "Great Feet for Life" Ashley Mateo, a UESCA- andRRCA-certified running coach Colleen Brough, an assistant professor in the Physical Therapy program at Columbia University Carson Caprara, VP, Footwear Product Management and Merchandising at Brooks Running The Most Comfortable Sandals for Women, According to Our Tests Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit