Exercising and fitness activities are essential to living a healthy lifestyle, and for those that prefer running as their exercise of choice, there is no exception. Whether one enjoys jogging alone or with friends, having the right gear can make all the difference in their performance and enjoyment levels. When people are consistent with their workouts, it helps them achieve their fitness goals faster. Also, it keeps their bodies healthy, eliminating any chronic ailments like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type II diabetes, and obesity.
A runner's number one tool is their shoes because they provide most of the shock absorption during impact with the ground. For this reason, it is important to buy good quality running shoes that fit well and are designed for specific activities like road running or trail running. Some runners prefer stability over cushioning, while others prefer the opposite. Depending on a runner's personal preferences, they will want to buy shoes that have midsole cushioning, a sock liner or no socks, and plenty of toe room. There are multiple renowned brands of running shoes that offer different types of cushioning and stability options. Below is a list of some of the best-rated brands in running shoes.
1 - Nike
One of the most popular brands is Nike because they have exceptional designs, impressive colors, and some of the best performance technology. The company has more than 50 years of experience in sportswear design, so their products are always made with track-tested materials that feel soft and comfortable on the skin. They also have a wide variety of shoes designed to help runners with their different training needs, such as running short distances or long runs, doing speed work, practicing for marathons, and so forth. One of Nike's popular running shoe designs is the Air Zoom Pegasus that offers a dynamic Fly Mesh upper for a sock-like feel and superior breathability, as well as Nike Zoom technology that provides responsive cushioning.
2 - Adidas
The Adidas brand is known for its innovative designs and exceptional comfort. The company's shoes are made with lightweight materials that feel soft against the skin. They have excellent shock absorption, so runners can walk or run long distances without experiencing any discomfort in their feet, knees, ankles, or shins. One of Adidas's best running shoe models is the Energy Boost, which has an innovative midsole design that provides stability and cushioning without weighing them down. The Adidas Supernova Glide is another popular design because it offers excellent support for runners who need extra arch support.
3 - Asics
The Asics brand is well known for their impressive running and fitness gear, and they have been making athletic footwear since the 1950s. Their products are made with reinforced heels, arch support that keeps feet from turning inward or outward, padded tongues that feel soft against the skin, plus flexible midsoles so runners can move quickly on any surface. For runners who need extra cushioning to protect their feet, Asics offers the Gel Cumulus with a fluidRide midsole for increased shock absorption.
4 - Brooks
Brooks is known for designing shoes that are built to last and provide superior support. The company was founded in 1914, and they have been making running footwear since 1938. They offer a variety of styles suited for different activities like trail running, racing, walking the dog, or going on regular runs. Brooks has three major categories: performance (which includes neutral and stability shoes), trail, and lifestyle. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is a popular running shoe option because it has an oversized midsole that absorbs impact during the foot strike while also providing excellent arch support. What set's the company apart are its 3D hex lugs that are strategically arranged to help runners go faster on the road, plus their patented Rev-Groove technology that provides a smooth transition from heel-strike to toe-off.
5 - Hoka One One
Hoka is a brand that was started in 2009 by French ultra-runner Nicolas Mermoud. Their running gear has excellent cushioning and stability, which means they are best suited for runners with flat feet or those who pronate (or supinate) excessively. The company offers an impressive selection of shoes like the Hupana, a lightweight shoe with excellent shock absorption and an Ortholite insole that helps keep the foot dry. The Clifton model has a SpEVA 45 lasting board to provide runners with added comfort while also reducing their risk of suffering from shin splints.
