What shoe when · Running
Pick your distance. We tell you what kind of shoe it wants, and which ones on our wall fit.
A daily trainer with medium cushioning. Comfortable, durable, nothing extreme. This is also the right first running shoe.
Look for
- Medium cushioning
- Neutral, or stability if your feet roll in
- Durable outsole
- A fitting in store before you buy
Not this
- Carbon-plated race shoes
- Fashion trainers
- Buying your old size without measuring
More cushioning under you for the second half, with enough stability not to wobble when you tire.
Look for
- High or maximum cushioning
- A rocker that keeps the stride rolling
- Breathable upper for heat
Not this
- Minimal shoes
- Race shoes for every long run
On our wall
Two shoes, honestly: a cushioned trainer for the miles, and a lighter, faster shoe for the long tempo runs and the race itself.
Look for
- A cushioned trainer for most runs
- A plated or fast-foam shoe for race pace
- A fit you have run in before race day
Not this
- Racing in a shoe you have never run 15 km in
- Doing every run in the fast shoe
On our wall
A race-day shoe with a plate, kept for race day and the key long runs, plus the trainer you did the block in. Try both on the same floor; your feet pick.
Look for
- Full-length plate and race foam
- The trainer you logged the miles in
- Socks and timing you will race in
Not this
- A new shoe in the last three weeks
- Race shoes on easy days
On our wall
There is no best running shoe. There is the right shoe for the run you do most, fitted to the feet you have. This guide covers the common cases; the fitting in store covers you.
Still not sure?
Send a photo of your current shoes and tell us what you do. A fitter replies, or come in and try.