If you're a guy looking for the best running shoes for your needs, there are a few things worth paying extra attention to. While most brands offer a broad range of men's shoe sizes, finding the right pair can be harder if you have particularly long or wide feet. If you're a heavier guy, you'll also want cushioning that still protects your legs well under higher forces. Here's what you should look for when choosing:
Fit and Size Range: Most running shoe brands offer a wide range of men's sizes, but if you wear a US size 14 or larger, your options will be more limited. We highlight the available size ranges in each pick, but be sure to check our true-to-size measurement to see how well the shoe fits around your toes and arch.
Wide and Extra-Wide Availability: If you have broader feet, look for shoes available in wide or extra-wide sizes. Not every model offers these options, and choosing a longer shoe won't necessarily give you the extra width you need.
Cushioning Under Higher Forces: If you're a heavier guy, it's worth checking how well a shoe absorbs impact under the highest forces we test. Hover over the question marks beside the Heel Cushioning and Forefoot Cushioning results in each pick to see how much impact the shoe absorbs at 1,900 N in the heel and 2,050 N in the forefoot. Within these individual measurements, look for a score of 7.5 or higher, as it gives you a better idea of how well your legs will be protected under heavier loads.
We've tested over 300 running shoes, and below are our recommendations for the best men's running shoes. If you're looking for a dedicated racing shoe, check out our picks for the best 5K and 10K running shoes, half-marathon running shoes, and marathon running shoes.
We've bought and tested more than 300 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
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Best Running Shoes For Men
Cushioning9.4True To Size9.1Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:NoIf you're a guy who wants one pair of shoes to handle all your running, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3 is the best running shoe for men we've tested. It's available in men's sizes up to US 15, but its main limitation is that it doesn't come in wide sizing and can feel quite snug around the arch. If you need more room, check out our dedicated wide-foot pick further down. No matter your weight, pace, height, or where you land on the shoe, its superb cushioning absorbs an outstanding amount of road impact even under the highest forces we test. The very soft foam holds up incredibly well over longer runs, too. Even if you're a bigger guy spending over four hours on your feet, you can count on fantastic impact protection throughout the run. Despite sitting very high off the ground, it's surprisingly light and springy. You get plenty of help keeping your legs moving and maintaining a consistent pace no matter your build. It also rolls smoothly through stride, making it easy to settle into a rhythm. It's a great option for men looking for a very comfortable shoe to finish a marathon, especially if you're not going to be running at the front of the pack.
However, the very soft platform isn't particularly stable, so if you're a guy who's new to running or need a more secure shoe, our beginner pick further down offers more support. It's also too soft to really propel you forward at top-end speeds, so it's not the shoe to reach for if you're racing a 5K or 10K.
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Best Mid-Range Running Shoes For Men
Cushioning8.4True To Size9.8Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:NoIf you still want a great shoe for most of your running but our top pick is too expensive, the Saucony Endorphin Azura is the next-best option. It comes in men's sizing up to US 15 and has an accommodating fit for most foot shapes, though there's no wide option available. It's considerably cheaper than the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3, though it's heavier and much firmer. It doesn't absorb nearly as much road impact, and lighter guys who land on their heels will find it a bit harsh at easy paces. However, the cushioning still provides excellent heel protection and great forefoot protection for heavier guys. It's not as comfortable or protective over longer efforts as our top pick, but it still does a very good job of protecting bigger guys who spend hours on their feet. It can handle everything from weekly miles to training for and finishing a marathon, albeit with less comfort. It also favors men who land farther back, with a design that works a bit like a rocking chair, smoothly rolling you forward from the shoe's rear into your stride. It's not quite as smooth if you land on your midfoot or stomp through the forefoot, though.
That said, it's still light for a daily trainer, with a narrow platform and lower-profile ride that make it nimble and well-suited to faster running. It's also more stable than our top pick. Unless you have additional support needs, there's more than enough security underfoot. You don't get the same springy ride as with our top pick, but you do get an efficient one that makes it easier to hold a range of paces, from recovery runs to races.
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Best Budget Running Shoes For Men
Cushioning7.3True To Size8.9Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:YesIf you're a guy looking for an affordable shoe, the Nike Winflo 12 is the best budget running shoe for men we've tested. It comes in men's wide sizing, up to US 15. However, the toe box is quite low, so if you have taller toes, you may experience some rubbing or chafing. You give up a lot compared to the pick above, the Saucony Endorphin Azura, though. If you're a bigger or taller guy, the Winflo 12 will feel much harsher than either of our two picks above when you land farther forward or push off your toes. The heel still does a good job of protecting your legs from impact, though. Its very wide base and extra weight also make fast running hard work. It doesn't help you settle into a rhythm easily, making it difficult to hold one pace.
However, what you get in return is a more secure platform. Regardless of your build, landings are steady wherever you land. There's still enough rebound to give you some help moving through each stride, too. That said, if you're a guy who cares more about speed than relaxed running, the adidas Zenboost is another great budget pick. It's significantly lighter and easier to run faster in than the Nike shoe. Its firm platform sits lower to the ground, making it a very reliable and stable shoe, no matter your level. It's harsher than the Nike for all guys, though, with much less cushioning. It doesn't come in wide sizing, but if you have long feet, it's available in men's sizes up to US 18.
Looking for cheaper shoes? Check out our picks for the best cheap running shoes!
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Best Beginner Running Shoes For Men
Cushioning8.5True To Size9.4Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:YesIf you're a guy who's new to running, the ASICS NOVABLAST 6 is the best beginner running shoe for men we've tested. It balances performance and stability, making it a great starting point. Its broad outsole extends through the heel, arch, and forefoot, helping keep your landings reliable as you find your stride. A gusseted tongue keeps your foot securely in place and helps prevent heel slippage. It comes in men's sizes up to US 15, including a wide option. It's more stable than our top pick, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3, though it's not as well cushioned. The heel does an excellent job of protecting heavier guys from impact, but the forefoot is much harsher. Bigger guys who land farther forward or push off forcefully will feel significantly more of the road. It can't handle the same range of paces as our top pick, either. Its heavier build provides less assistance through your stride, so you'll have to work harder to maintain faster paces. It's also not as smooth.
However, it's still light enough for a daily running shoe. It's also springy enough to make logging your first miles enjoyable no matter your weight. It can handle longer runs decently as your mileage builds, too, though it's not a shoe for racing. That said, if you're a guy whose ankles roll inward when you run and want a stable shoe to help correct that, check out the Saucony Hurricane 26. It has a wider base with built-in support features to help prevent your ankles from collapsing inward. It's also more cushioned for heavier guys at the front of the shoe. However, if you don't need that support, it can feel a bit too aggressive in controlling how you run.
New to running? Check out our article on the best running shoes for beginners!
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Best Running Shoes For Men For Faster Training
Cushioning9.3True To Size8.9Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:NoIf you're a man who's been running for a long time, or you're naturally quick off the mark, the ASICS MEGABLAST is the best men's running shoe we've tested for faster training. However, its race-style silhouette and tapered toe box can rub and chafe if you have wider or high-volume feet, and there's no wide sizing. If you have particularly long feet, it only goes up to a men's US 14. That said, while our top pick, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3, can handle faster running, the MEGABLAST's more aggressive ride is built for speed. Its cushioning is fantastic for heavier men in both the heel and forefoot, making it deeply protective even when you're going quickly. The incredibly light build, stiff forefoot, and energetic foam work together to drive you powerfully into the next stride. The impressive rebound makes finding and holding quicker paces a breeze. The curved heel also rolls you forward impressively as you land, while the forefoot guides you smoothly through toe-off, helping you find your rhythm. It's a great option for men tackling intervals, tempo runs, or long runs with marathon-paced sections. It can handle 5K and 10K racing well, too. The foam is superbly soft, delivering plush landings and excellent protection over long runs, regardless of your build.
All that performance comes at a cost, however. It's the most expensive shoe on this list, and if your pace is slower than 5:30/km, you're unlikely to make the most of what it offers. Its aggressive ride isn't as easy to cruise in as our top pick below those paces. You also give up some of that shoe's softer comfort and slightly better protection over long runs. The tall, soft platform can feel a little wobbly, too.
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Best Running Shoes For Men With Wide Feet
Cushioning7.9True To Size8.6Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:YesIf you've got wide feet and usually struggle to find a shoe that fits without giving up too much performance, the New Balance 1080v15 is the shoe for you. It comes in men's sizes up to US 15, including wide and extra-wide options, so you don't have to squeeze into a narrower shoe that could cause pain or rubbing. You do give up some performance for that easier fit. It's heavier than our top pick, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3. You don't get nearly as much energy back, either, so faster running takes more effort. Its cushioning doesn't hold up nearly as well once your runs stretch beyond 10 km. If you're a bigger guy, the forefoot will also feel much harsher the faster you run.
The heel still offers good protection for bigger guys, though, and the shoe is protective enough to handle most of your weekly running at relaxed paces. Despite being heavier than our top pick, it's still not clunky. Its wide base also makes it much more stable, helping keep your landings steady. There's still enough rebound to give you some assistance through each stride, too. However, the ride isn't particularly smooth, and it's not a shoe for racing.
Did you know New Balance offers some of the most generous sizing options available for men? Check out our picks for the best New Balance running shoes!
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Best Running Shoes For Heavier Men
Cushioning8.9True To Size9.5Heel Cushioning:Forefoot Cushioning:See all our test resultsWide Sizing Available:YesIf you're a heavier guy, whether because of your height, build, or both, your weight puts more force through your shoes with every stride. Over time, that extra impact can take a toll on your feet and legs. It's therefore worth considering a deeply cushioned shoe that protects you from impact without wobbling underfoot. The HOKA Clifton PRO offers exactly that. Its cushioning provides incredible protection in the heel and excellent protection in the forefoot for bigger guys. It also has a secure platform that helps keep your landings steady. Men's sizes go up to US 16, and there's a wide option available. However, the forefoot can feel narrow, so guys with broader feet may experience some rubbing or chafing around their toes.
You give up much of the spring and assistance you get from our top pick, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 3. The Clifton PRO is also considerably heavier and less cushioned, though it's more stable. It's not the shoe for faster running or racing. However, it's great for regular, relaxed runs and handles easy long runs well. Its cushioning continues to absorb shock impressively even after 40 km of continuous running, regardless of your build.
If you're a heavier guy and want to explore more options, check out our picks for the best running shoes for heavy runners.
Notable Mentions
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Nike Vomero Plus:
The Nike Vomero Plus is a better option for heavier men who want a livelier, more energetic ride than the HOKA Clifton PRO. However, it's more expensive and less stable, and its cushioning doesn't hold up as well over longer distances.
See our review -
HOKA Bondi 9:
The HOKA Bondi 9 is a more expensive alternative to our beginner pick, the ASICS NOVABLAST 6, with even better cushioning for heavier men and excellent protection over long distances. However, it's much heavier and less energetic, making it less versatile overall.
See our review -
Brooks Ghost 18:
The Brooks Ghost 18 is a cheaper, more stable alternative to our wide-feet pick, the New Balance 1080v15, and goes up to extra-wide sizing. However, it's much less protective and takes more effort to hold the same pace, so it suits men who prefer a firmer shoe and don't mind giving up some help from the shoe.
See our review
Recent Updates
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Oct 28, 2026 at 11:50 am:
We've updated this article to change our picks. The ASICS SUPERBLAST 3 is now our top pick, as it suits a wider range of runners than the ASICS MEGABLAST, which is now our pick for faster training. We've added the Saucony Endorphin Azura as our mid-range pick for its price-to-performance ratio. Finally, we've refreshed the introduction and streamlined the recommendation boxes to focus on the information that matters most to men.
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Sep 30, 2026 at 10:47 am:
We've updated this article to better reflect what men are looking for in a pair of running shoes. We rewrote the introduction but didn't change any of our picks or categories. However, we tweaked the wording throughout the recommendation boxes with more information about wide sizing, available size ranges, and colorway options.
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Sep 14, 2026 at 01:07 pm:
We've updated this article to change our top pick to the ASICS MEGABLAST and replaced the ASICS NOVABLAST 6 with the adidas Adizero Evo SL as our 'Best Mid-Range' pick. We moved the NOVABLAST 6 to our 'Best For Beginners' pick, replacing the Saucony Hurricane 26, and replaced the adidas Zenboost with the Nike Winflo 12 as our 'Best Budget' pick. Finally, we tweaked the text throughout the pick boxes to reflect these changes and updated the Notable Mentions accordingly.
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Sep 01, 2026 at 01:14 pm:
We updated the article to better reflect what men look for in shoes, making the Saucony Hurricane 26 our top overall pick, the Brooks Ghost Amp the 'Best For Beginners,' the New Balance 1080v15 the 'Best For Wide Feet,' and the HOKA Clifton PRO the 'Best For Heavier Men.' All pick box copy and the intro were tweaked to reflect this new structure. Finally, we refreshed the Notable Mentions in line with these changes.
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Aug 20, 2026 at 11:46 am:
We've updated this article to change our 'Best Budget Pick' from the adidas Adizero Pacer to the adidas Zenboost. We also changed our 'Best Mid-Range' pick to 'Best For Daily Training', and rewrote the box to make the trade-offs between picks clearer.
Our recommendations above are what we currently consider the best running shoes for men. We consider factors like performance, price (a more affordable shoe wins out if the extra cost isn't justified), user feedback, and availability; we don't recommend shoes that are hard to find or nearly sold out.
If you'd rather decide for yourself, check out our full list of running shoe reviews. Ultimately, the best men's running shoes for you will depend on your stride, preferences, and goals, rather than any single ranking.