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The level of cushioning you are looking for from run to run can vary greatly. And there are so many factors to consider when you’re searching for the best cushioned running shoes. “Cushioned” might mean something very different for you the day after a marathon versus the day after a rest day, so it’s important to understand what the best cushioned running shoe is for you, and when different levels of cushioning will be beneficial to your running routine.
Any day of the year, cushioned running shoes do carry definite benefits. The most immediate is that they lessen the impact of repeated ground strike on your foot. Think about it like a shock absorber on a mountain bike. The more cushioning you have between your foot and the ground, the less you are going to feel the impact. But how those benefits translate from runner to runner can vary widely. “While we all seek the immediate comfort a cushioned shoe can provide, the benefit of the shoe ultimately depends on your individual biomechanics and how they work with the materials and geometries used in the design,” says Bekah Broe, director of product performance footwear at Hoka. A bit of extra cushioning can be particularly beneficial for underpronators who may need running shoes for plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or achilles tendonitis.
If you polled a group of runners and asked them to describe what a “cushioned” running shoe looks and feels like, they would probably describe something with a thick midsole that feels soft underfoot. But is that the whole truth? The reality is that the best cushioned running shoe can look and feel very different depending on the runner.
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“Heavier runners compress the foam more than their lighter counterparts do, so what one runner finds cushioned, another may not,” advises running coach Cory Smith. And while increased cushioning generally provides a soft feeling that lessens the impact of ground strike, “it’s only one element in the underfoot formula that brings a running experience to life,” says Broe.
Brands have continued to innovate the space over the years, constantly introducing new tech that strives to provide the best cushioned stride for any type of runner. If you’re after lightweight foam for the pavement, Adidas’ Ultraboost technology has you covered. Do you need trail running shoes with rigidity underfoot? Hoka’s got you with carbon fiber plates. All of the products we reviewed and selected feature the latest tech to ensure you’re equipped with the best gear to cushion your foot.
We consulted running experts to help demystify what makes the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. Keep reading to see our top picks for running shoes with cushioning, along with expert tips for what to look for in a cushioned running shoe for every foot type and condition.
Colorways: 19 options for men; 10 options for women
Weight: 8.9 oz (men’s); 7.2 oz (women’s)
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Ultra luxurious, pillow-like cushioning without compromising a secure, stable ride.
Everything about the model is the epitome of luxury, from the pillow-like cushioning under your feet to the heavily padded tongue and heel collar. The Clifton 9 is Smith’s go-to shoe for recovery runs and occasions when you need long distance running shoes, when your legs just can’t handle the harsh impact of concrete. Sometimes, tall, softer midsoles can feel mushy and wobbly, but while this model is not classified as a stability running shoe, its wide base allows for a secure, stable ride. A new, lighter midsole compound also knocked nearly 15 percent off the weight of this model compared to previous iterations, giving the Clifton 9 a faster feeling.
What reviewers say: “The Clifton 8’s have been a life saver for me!! I couldn’t imagine walking around without them on me Feet!! I recommend these sneakers to everyone I can! I even buy them as gifts for family members!”
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Weight: 8.0 oz (men’s); 8.0 oz (women’s)
Colorways: 2 options for men’s; 3 options for women’s
Materials: ZoomX + Zoom Air midsole
Drop: 4 millimeters
Pros: A combination of ZoomX cushioning, a full-length carbon fiber plate and two AirZoom cushioning units in the forefoot make this one heck of a high performance distance shoe.
Cons: Pricey
Despite its futuristic, semi-clunky appearance, it’s a remarkably smooth shoe for efficient runners. It’s certainly more geared toward the competitive runner versus the recreational one due to its tall 40 millimeter/36 millimeter stack height (registering just below the World Athletics limit) that feels somewhat unstable at slower paces. Since its inception in 2018, Coach Smith has been recommending it to all of his clients looking to set a personal best that clocks in around or is better than their Boston Marathon qualifying time.
What reviewers say: “Just the best running shoes I’ve ever used and I’ve tried many different brands!! I’m a long time runner and triathlete and love running in these shoes!!”
Colors: 11 options for men’s; 10 options for women’s
Weight: 10.3 oz (men’s); 9.2 oz (women’s)
Materials: BOOST midsole
Drop: 10 millimeters
Pros: Huge improvements to reduce the weight of these shoes mean you can have excellent cushioning and comfort without sacrificing speed.
Cons: They are so good looking you’ll have trouble only wearing them on your runs.
All that comfort and cushioning does come at the expense of weight, though. The first generations of this shoe clocked in at nearly 12 ounces for men and 10 ounces for women, which made it one of the heaviest cushioned shoes we tested. Thankfully, Adidas has managed to shave off nearly 2 oz of weight in the newer models, which make these much more appropriate for a range of tempos. We still love them for recovery runs though. When your legs are dead-flat, there’s nothing better than a thick slab of Boost cushioning underfoot to soften the impact.
Excellent performance aside, these also make for some of the best cushioned running shoes for standing all day or walking. Sneakerheads love the Ultraboost for its clean, classic aesthetic, so you’ll look great around town–even if you’re moving at a slower pace.
What reviewers say: “I have been wearing Adidas Ultraboost model shoes for many years and they are the best shoe I have ever owned. They fit like a glove and are perfect for walking or running. I would not change them for any other shoe.”
Colorways: 5 options for men; 4 options for women
Weight: 11.0 oz (men’s); 9.0 oz (women’s)
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Ultra-plush cushioning with over 1.5 inches of padding dampening every footstrike, plus carbon fiber plates that help propel you forward.
Cons: All that padding makes these pretty heavy shoes that might slow you down a bit.
Fans of the Bondi will be happy to hear that the brand has consistently maintained the ride of the shoe. Improvements to the upper, such as enhanced padded at the heel collar and redesigned TPU overlays, give the Bondi X a more comfortable fit and secure midfoot wrap. But what really sets the Bondi X apart are the carbon fiber plates that will help propel you towards the finish line whether its race day or… Monday.
What reviewers say: “Recently purchased the Bondi X and they’re a home run. Ready for the road right out of the box. Perfect fit, perfect cushioning, awesome looks and made to last. A fantastic shoe. This is my 3rd pair of Hokas and it won’t be my last.”
Colorways: 19 options for men; 16 options for women
Weight: 10.2 oz (men’s); 9.1 oz (women’s)
Materials: FF Blast Eco Plus midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: The extremely wide and stable full-length FlyteFoam midsole provides excellent cushioning and stands up well to compression.
Cons: The mesh upper is plush but less breathable than others.
What reviewers say: “They are just heavenly to wear and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Colorways: 6 options for men’s; 7 options for women’s
Weight: 9.8 oz (men’s); 8.8 oz (women’s)
Materials: PWRRUN+ midsole
Drop: 10 millimeters
Pros: Improvements to the cushioning system with the addition of PWRRUN+ make this a light, plush ride, while the PWRRUN sockliner keeps your foot securely in place.
Cons: Some reviewers report that the toe box is slightly narrow.
What reviewers say: “I have been running for more years than I want to count, and if I want to keep running, I have to keep my feet happy. The Saucony Triumph 21 has the amazing PWRRun+ cushioned sole that softens every step and protects feet and knees from the possible jarring that can come from running.”
Colorways: 14 options for men; 13 options for women
Weight: 8.9 oz (men’s); 7.8 oz (women’s)
Materials: Flytefoam Blast PLUS Midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: The Flytefoam Blast midsole features an over-exaggerated heel that helps neutralize your foot position while also offering a soft, smooth ride.
Cons: Quite a different ride from our normal firm expectations for Asics, but that definitely isn’t a bad thing. Just be prepared to be surprised if you’re an Asics devotee.
What Reviewers Say: “They are my current standard choice for asphalt/concrete running training. They are cushy and bouncy, while also allowing me to run faster if I choose to. I believe that thanks to these shoes I improved my running form. These are neutral shoes, and thanks to the softness of the sole foam I discovered that I’m slightly pronating, which even computer imaging of my feet did not pick up. Knowing this helped me a lot to adjust how I run as well. If you are a neutral runner, and want an upgrade over your typical beginner running trainers, these shoes should be on the top of your list.”
Colorways: 6 options for men’s; 5 options for women’s
Weight: 8.1 oz (men’s) | 7.4 oz (women’s)
Materials: Px Foam Midsole
Drop: 9 millimeters
Pros: The Px foam midsole is a technology normally reserved for ultralight, carbon fiber super shoes. Using it in a relatively affordable runner is a real treat.
Cons: You’re paying a premium price for a premium product, but nothing that out of line from other higher-end running shoes.
What reviewers say: “I absolutely love these shoes. The way they run, the way they return energy with a quick stride. I find myself reaching for these shoes over and over. 100% recommend!”
Colorways: 16 options for men’s; 14 options for women’s
Weight: 7.7 oz (men’s); 7.2 oz (women’s)
Materials: Compression molded foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Excellent cushioning and yet still lightweight enough to take out on a tempo run.
Cons: The midsole doesn’t hold up as long as other models and may require you to replace your shoes more frequently.
What reviewers say: “Very lightweight and very responsive shoes. I’ve taken them on a few 3 mile and 8-10 mile runs and they have been great on both. Good size toe box so my feet don’t feel squished.”
Colorways: 4 options for men; 4 options for women
Weight: 9.17 oz (men’s); 8.46 oz (women’s)
Materials: Energy Foam midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
Pros: Super smooth, cushioned ride that performs well across basically any terrain and any distance.
Cons: There’s no real innovations from the original model, but we love the second generation equally.
If you’re used to Salomon running shoes, you’ll find the Ultra Glide 2 to have a more relaxed fit through the mid and forefoot. This wider design gives your feet more room, accommodating foot swell during extra-long or hot days on the trails, and making it a great pair of shoes for wide feet. Like most maximum cushioned shoes, it doesn’t perform the best through tacky technical terrain. But when it comes to smooth single track, fire roads or even concrete roads, it offers the same smooth sailing we loved in the original Ultra Glide.
What reviewers say: “The cushion is amazing. It feels like I can run all day. Overall a great shoe, perfect for buffed-out trails/fire roads here on the Central Coast of California.”
Colorways: 12 options for men’s; 13 options for women’s
Weight: 10.3 oz (men’s); 8.3 oz (women’s)
Materials: Fresh Foam midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: Excellent cushioning, combined with a roomy fit make this a favorite for long distances.
Cons: The sizing tends to run a bit large and you may want to order down a size.
This would be a great option for runners who struggle to find wide enough shoes due to the stretchy nature of the upper. One thing to point out is Smith found the 1080v12 to run on the larger side, which is odd because typically he finds New Balance shoes to run small. Was it so drastically large he needed a smaller size? No. But if you’re in between sizes, he suggests opting for the smaller size.
What reviewers say: “This is my fourth pair of NB 1080s. I have had the v10s, 2 pairs of v11s, and now this pair of v12s. I love the support in the footbed, and I love the colors.”
Colorways: 11 options for men’s; 12 options for women’s
Weight: 10.3 oz (men’s); 8.5 oz (women’s)
Materials: EVA foam midsole
Drop: 4 millimeters
Pros: Hands down the most comfortable trail shoe out there, that conveniently also performs really well on roads.
What reviewers say: “3rd pair — I’ll never wear anything else.”
Colorways: 6 options for men’s; 7 options for women’s
Weight: 12.3 oz (men’s); 10.4 oz (women’s)
Materials: Balanced cushioning midsole
Drop: 0 millimeters
What reviewers say: “These are hands down the best running shoes that I’ve ever purchased – they fit my feet perfectly. I have a wide forefoot (thanks to ski boots), high arch, high instep, and narrow heel and even hoka’s weren’t as comfortable. Not to mention I can easily fit my superfeet orthotics in them.”
Colorways: 11 options for men’s; 11 options for women’s
Weight: 10.1 oz (men’s); 9.1 oz (women’s)
Materials: DNA Loft V2 midsole
Drop: 12 millimeters
Pros: With an official distinction from the American Podiatric Medical Association, there’s no doubt that this is an excellent shoe for fighting plantar fasciitis, now with an improved foam midsole.
Cons: Some runners report that the laces come undone too easily and should be replaced.
The midsole is built up a bit more than other models which is great for your alignment and countering plantar fasciitis. Not only are these some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, but they’re also top cushioned running shoes for flat feet, wide feet, and even bad knees as well. And with improvements to Brooks’ DNA Loft cushioning in the midsole, the ride is softer and lighter than ever.
What reviewers say: “These are my second pair of Adrenaline GTS, I did a six mile run straight out of the box.”
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Colorways: 8 options for men’s; 8 options for women’s
Weight: 9.7 oz (men’s); 8.1 oz (women’s)
Materials: CloudTec midsole
Drop: 6 millimeters
Pros: Lightweight and ultra-cushioned thanks to On’s innovative CloudTec midsoles
Cons: They’re on the high end of the price spectrum.
What reviewers say: “I just ran my first half marathon with these monsters! They felt amazing and my time was much better than expected. I love all the cushy room in the toe box. Well done, On!”
Colorways: 7 options for men’s; 8 options for women’s
Weight: 8.8 oz (men’s); 7.8 oz (women’s)
Materials: PWRRUN midsole
Drop: 8 millimeters
Pros: Huge recent improvements to the cushioning make this classic stability shoe and excellent choice all around now.
Cons: They are definitely not winterized, even on light rain days reviewers report ending their runs with very wet feet.
What reviewers say: “Great shoe for stability and comfort, helps with plantar fasciitis!”
Colorways: 4 options for men’s; 4 options for women’s
Weight: 8.8 oz (men’s); 7.4 oz (women’s)
Materials: EVA Foam midsole
Drop: 5 millimeters
Pros: Huge improvements to weight with the addition of the Matryx upper do not sacrifice traction or comfort in the slightest.
Cons: There is no water-proofing which means these are best for drier months.
In a category notorious for weighty materials, Hoka has made a breakthrough with their new Matryx upper. The Hoka Tecton X2 manages to provide all of the traction and durability you would expect out of a trail shoe thanks to the Vibram sole and the rigidity and protection of the carbon fiber plates. But when you marry that with the excellent EVA foam cushioning the brand is widely known for and the new Matryx upper, you have one heck of a lightweight, fast shoe that is still almost impossibly grippy. It’s ideal for racing across rough terrain but we also found it to be an excellent choice for any surface as we found our way to the trail. And the cushioning truly does live up to the brand’s standard. This is a shoe that feels comfortable across any surface and any distance.
What reviewers say: “This is the best trail running shoe from Hoka that I’ve run in. It has perfect cushioning great traction and responsive propulsion. I have owned every version of the speed goat including the Evo speed goat, which in my opinion, was the best trail running shoe Hoka ever made. The Tecton X2 has taken that top number one spot for me in trail running shoes.”
Colorways: 4 options for men’s; 3 options for women’s
Weight: 10.9 oz (men’s); 9.1 oz (women’s)
Materials: ZoomX midsole
Drop: 9 millimeters
Pros: ZoomX foam, a wide forefoot, and a Flyknit upper make this an exceptionally comfortable shoe for when your feet truly need a break.
Cons: It’s pretty heavy, but that’s why we prefer it for our slow recovery runs.
It has an exaggerated, wide forefoot that allows for a more stable ride and makes it one of the best cushioned running shoes with a wide toe box. You would think a shoe this wide and thick-soled would be a drag, but it’s not at all. Thanks to the bouncy foam and slight rockered forefoot, heel-to-toe transitions are made smooth and snappy. While all the softness underfoot lessens the impact, the Flyknit upper wraps your foot in complete comfort.
What reviewers say: “The ZoomX foam is the star here. Very, very cushy and yet reasonably responsive for all the cushioning. This shoe is about as easy on my legs as any shoe I’ve ever worn.”
What to Look for in the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
- Level of cushioning: The amount of foam in between your foot and the ground is called stack height and it’s one of the most obvious indicators of cushioning according to Coach Smith. The higher the stack of the shoe, the more cushioning it contains and the softer the ride is likely to feel.
- Firmness: The other major factor in determining cushioning according to Coach Smith, is the durometer, or the firmness of the foam under your foot. You can use a device to get a reading on the materials. The higher the reading, the firmer, and therefore less cushioned, the material is.
- Materials: With stack height and durometer in mind, you’ll want to look for shoes that utilize materials and technologies that are appropriate for your own personal preferences. Not all foams are created equal so pay attention to how the individual foam feels under your foot. A shoe with a high stack could also feature materials that score high on a durometer and might not be as cushioned as you want.
- Weight: More cushioning generally means more materials and generally means more weight. Be ready to carry a slightly heavier load on your runs. If that’s a deterrent for you, pay close attention to brands that offer lightweight cushioning technologies.
Who Should Wear Cushioned Running Shoes
Who should wear a cushioned running shoe and when really comes down to your personal preference and the intent behind your runs. Cushioned running shoes generally offer, “a softer or compliant ride that feels like a luxurious, even cruise-like experience,” comments Hoka’s Broe. You, like Coach Smith, might appreciate a cushioned running shoe on a recovery day. Or you might look for more cushioning to help combat the terrain or your trail runs or provide the added comfort you need to go the extra miles in your long-distance running shoes. And they can be particularly helpful if you suffer from any number of foot conditions, especially plantar fasciitis.
The Different Types of Cushioned Running Shoes
- Long-distance cushioned running shoes: When you’re logging long miles, you’re also subjecting your body to extra stress and opening up the possibility of sidelining injuries like plantar fasciitis. A well cushioned running shoe can help prevent many of those issues. Look for shoes with thick midsoles that are fairly rigid and feature structure in both the sole and heel counter. The more there is to keep your foot into position, the better.
- Cushioned trail-running shoes: When you’re on the trail, the surfaces you are going to encounter underfoot are a lot more variable. Find shoes that offer thick lugs to give you traction, rock plates or even carbon fiber to help protect your feet from injury on craggy surfaces, and waterproofing to keep you dry when you cross a stray creek.
- Cushioned running shoes for walking: The best shoes for running are also generally some of the best shoes for walking for men and women. But walking and running have very different gaits and affect your footstrike differently. When selecting the best running shoe for walking don’t worry as much about the weight of your shoe. Heavy, dense foams will provide you with better stability and are better aligned to the consistent, slow pace of walking.
- Cushioned running shoes for standing all day: Staying on your feet all day leaves you exposed to more strain than normal. To avoid common overuse injuries seek out shoes that have extra cushioning in the heel, good midfoot and arch support, and moisture wicking materials to keep your feet dry.
Related: Are Running Shoes Good for Walking?
The Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
It’s always important to listen to your feet, and that is especially true when you know you are predisposed to a certain foot type or condition. You will want to look for cushioned running shoes that include the same special features you normally seek out.
- Cushioned running shoes for flat feet: Flat feet are defined by when you lack arches and your entire foot is touching the ground. If that is you, look for shoes that have a wide-last with a design that is relatively straight underfoot. For that means a wide lasted model with a design that is relatively straight underfoot.
- Cushioned running shoes for wide feet: For those with particularly wide feet you’ll want to find shoes that come in wide sizes. But lacking that option, make sure that the model you select has a roomy toe box.
- Cushioned running shoes for stability: Stability is of key importance for those of us who overpronate. Look for shoes with plenty of arch support and features like medial posts, heel counters, and heel wedges.
- Cushioned running shoes for back pain and knee pain: If you’re on your feet all day, chances are you might suffer from more knee pain or back pain than others. Extra cushioning coupled with a snug, supportive fit are a great first step to alleviating both problems.
- Cushioned running shoes for bunions: If you suffer from a physical malady like bunions or heel spurs, ensuring you have a snug, supportive fit is of primary importance again.
How Often Should I Buy Cushioned Running Shoes?
As with any running shoe, it’s better to err on the side of caution and replace them prematurely. And since cushioned shoes tend to have very soft midsoles, you will probably need to replace them more often according to Coach Smith. “As the foam compresses repeatedly with each footstrike, it starts to lose its rebounding properties and can have the potential to wear unevenly,” he warns. And when that happens your risk of injury goes way up. Keep an eye out for some of the telltale signs of a compressed or uneven midsole like creases and lines along the sidewalls and even holes in your uppers. When in doubt you should replace your shoes, but Coach Smith generally advises they should last through about 200 miles or six months of wear.
What Are the Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Heavy Runners?
Exerting more force onto the sole of your foot causes more compression. That means that the heavier you are the more compression you are going to experience. If that is the case, your impression what the best cushioned running shoe might be different than that of a lighter runner. You’ll be interested in looking for models that sport denser cushioning materials and, subsequently, probably weigh a bit more as well. The Hoka Bondi X, the Asics Gel Nimbus 25 and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1050 V12 are all options with excellent, dense foam midsoles that stand up well to compression.
How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
When it comes to selecting the best shoes in any category, we take the job very seriously, constantly testing models throughout the year. And that was no exception when we sought out the best cushioned running shoes for both men and women. We tapped Cory Smith, an expert running coach, tested most of the shoes ourselves, interviewed industry experts, and scoured online reviews to compile real customer feedback. The result is a researched list of the best cushioned running shoes for all foot types and conditions. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Cory Smith has been a runner and running coach for over 25 years. He holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 and 2 Endurance Certification, three former Maryland State records, and is a two-time NCAA Division National championships qualifier.
Bekah Broe is the director of product for performance footwear at Hoka.
Meet the Author
Peter Tittiger is a freelance journalist and content consultant. He is also an avid runner and a slave to his feet. A firm believer in “No Days Off,” he regularly logs at least five runs a week and cross-trains in the pool or on a bike. He has trained for and run in nearly a hundred races, including the New York City Marathon, multiple completions of the full, 5-borough, NYRR half-marathon circuit, and annual completion of the Falmouth Road Race.