In many ways, there's never been a better time to be a man looking for running shoes. The market has exploded in recent years, with shoes for every type of run and runner. That also means now is one of the most confusing times to shop for running shoes, as the options can seem overwhelming. Men often need different things from a running shoe than women, especially when it comes to handling heavier body weights, accommodating wider feet, or simply wanting to run fast. We've tested over 290 models, and below are our recommendations for the best running shoes for men. Here's a quick rundown of what to look for using our lab testing and scoring:

• Cushioning: How well the midsole absorbs impact. A score of 7.5+ is good overall, but if you're a heavier man, it's worth checking how the shoe performs under higher forces. You can find that in the Heel Cushioning and Forefoot Cushioning tests on individual reviews.
• Energy Return: How much energy the midsole gives back after each foot strike. A score of 7.5+ is good, while 8+ is great. Higher scores generally mean the shoe wastes less of your effort through the foam, which can make faster running more efficient.
• Stability: How secure the shoe is underfoot. A score of 7.5+ is good for daily use. This is especially useful for new men runners who want a more trustworthy platform while they build confidence, and for bigger runners who need lots of cushioning to absorb impact but don't want the shoe to wobble underfoot.
• True to Size: How closely the shoe's length and internal shape match our standardized reference fit. A score of 9+ means you can confidently buy your normal size. If you have wider feet, a broader arch, or taller toes, it's worth checking the individual fit scores as well.