Honorable Mentions
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Like we said, WIRED runners log hundreds of miles every year. Here are a few other shoes we’ve tried that you might want to consider if the above don’t work for your foot. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, we recommend going to a local store for a test drive before you drop your credit card.
Diadora Nucleo 2 for $165: The Nucleo 2 isn’t an amazing, powerful, fluid shoe. But if you’re a fan of straightforward, no-nonsense comfort and good natural stability across a good range of motion, the Nucleo 2 will deliver.
Rad R1 for $130: Designed for the gym, HIIT, running and all kinds of hybrid workouts, I’ve been using the Rad R1 as I do my strength and conditioning work in the gym like a good boy. They work for sprints and miles on a smooth treadmill, while being stable and supportive enough to go under the bar and provide control for exercises like box jumps and push-ups. They look good, too.
New Balance Rebel V5 for $145, Adidas EVO SL for $105, Kiprun Kipride Max ($160). Another high-end running shoe to rival the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5, the Rebel V5 is sleek, light and capable throughout the entire range of motion. The Adidas EVO SL is a great alternative to the Saucony Endorphin Azura and can handle whatever you throw at it. But if you like your things very smooth and a little jumpy, then Kiprun Kipride Max it provides a luxurious ride with a little bit of pop.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v15 for $170, HOKA Clifton 9 for $164: If you’ve never run before, the Hoka Clifton 9 is my recommendation for a beginner runner. Despite the Hoka’s (ahem) big reputation, this is a great little shoe that’s comfortable, balanced and light. – Adrienne So
Saucony Ride 17 for $110: This is also a good example of a budget shoe.
Saucony Hurricane 25 for $135, Brooks Glycerin 23 GTS for $180: Director of consumer technology and podcast host Michael Calore runs at Brooks Glycerin. This is our alternative choice if you are shopping for shoes that offer more stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Take Care of My Running Shoes?
- Give them a day off. After a long run, the midsole foam takes time to wear down. Rotating shoes 48 hours between runs increases your shoe’s ability to bounce back.
- Undo your straps. You’re tired, we know, but kicking out (or worse, kicking in) without untying your running shoes is a surefire way to ruin your heels fast.
- Wash them if they get muddy. Mud and sand on the upper fibers can cause them to deteriorate. But do not wash them in the machine. Do it by hand – and keep it nice and dry.
- Keep things cool. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures from radiators or sunlight can dry out, harden and damage the midsole.
- Their things. Remove the insoles and dry each running shoe separately. Then use shredded newspaper to quickly dry the wet interior and help the tops retain their shape.
How Long Should My Shoes Last?
Common internet wisdom says that you should replace your shoes somewhere between 300 and 500 miles. However, this decades-old rule of thumb is based on a handful of studies and general advice from brands. New types of foam, rubber outsoles, and advanced technology mean that it is now more difficult to give blanket advice.
There are many modern midsole foam formulas. Durability is now not only judged by how long the cushion lasts, but also if it continues to deliver results and performance. Some premium foams may lose their original energy but remain as protective as a solid, traditional EVA sole. For example, your high-tech carbon racing shoe may become your everyday runner if it loses its top speed.
You should also consider your unique running style. Shoes are worn differently for different runners, affected by parameters such as weight, stride pattern, speed, daily use, terrain and weather. There are obvious signs of wear and tear: Heel collars are rubbed, holes in the upper or grip worn to the point of no longer working. It’s hard to tell when the midsole has had its day. They don’t wear out in the same way as old shoes.
Best advice: Use your shoes until something feels off. If that happens, you may want to start shopping.
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