You could be forgiven for thinking running shoe brands have spent the last decade competing to build the most indulgent running shoe imaginable, pampering runners with ever softer and more plush foams. New midsole compounds have made max-stack shoes lighter, bouncier, and more protective than ever, but more doesn't always mean a better ride, and finding the sweet spot between mushy and cushy requires some discernment.

We've tested over 250 running shoes. Below are our picks for the best cushioned running shoes, as well as a quick overview of our scores and how they can help you find the right shoe for your needs:

Cushioning: How much impact protection the midsole provides. A score of 7.5+ is good, while anything above 8 is great. Runners who land with more force, whether due to size, speed, or stride mechanics, should also check the Heel Cushioning and Forefoot Cushioning tests in individual reviews to see how the shoe performs under higher loads. Since most runners load more than one part of the midsole during each stride, both heel and forefoot cushioning scores matter regardless of strike pattern. Long-distance runners should also check Long Run Cushioning to see how the shoe holds up over extended efforts.

Stability: How stable the shoe is underfoot. A score of 7.5+ is good, though many max-cushioned shoes score lower because of their taller stacks and softer foams. Lower scores aren't always a concern, and anything above 6 is still acceptable here, but less stable shoes can feel harder to control as runs get longer or fatigue builds.

Responsiveness: How efficiently the midsole returns energy. A score of 6.5+ is generally enough for daily training, while anything above 8 is impressive. In highly cushioned shoes, a higher responsiveness score helps distinguish shoes that feel lively and energetic from those that simply feel soft.

True To Size: How accurately the shoe matches our standardized fit baseline. A score of 9+ means most runners won't need to adjust their normal size. Scores between 7.5 and 9 are usually still acceptable, though runners who've struggled with sizing issues in the past should check individual fit measurements.