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One person might benefit from a pair thats super cushioned, while another may prefer something more streamlined.
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
It should feel more rigid and be most comfortable while running, she says.
On the treadmill, these shoes felt nimble and supportive.
I also used them for some sprintsthis is where they felt PERFECT, our tester said.
We think they’re a solid pick for someone who wants to start running and needs a versatile shoe.
This shoe says it has max cushioning for an On, and it really felt like it.
Even without insoles, my high arches felt supported and comfortable throughout hour-long runs.
They have a truly impressive stack height (48 millimeters of foam!
), but they arent total marshmallows, either.
Lululemons BeyondFeel (another 2024 Sneaker Award winner) is a great starter trail-runner.
They’re extremely comfy upon first wearvery cushioned, bouncy, and lightweightall while feeling really supportive!
Very impressed with the instant comfort!
These sneakers are super bouncy and fast!
They were equally fun on the pavement and on the track, our tester said.
For this reason, she recommends that runners who overpronate wear a stability shoe (a.k.a.
a sneaker with a firm heel counter and solid arch support), like Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23.
This pair is also a favorite of NASM-certified personal trainer and SLT tread instructorRani Vance.
They are the most supportive and lightweight shoes that I’ve run in, she tells SELF.
They put my ankle into the best position during my run.
It also has two different types of foam in the outsole, for a cushy feel.
This pair features pockets of gel in the soles, which absorb shock as you pound the pavement.
One SELF tester who deals withplantar fasciitisfinds that these sneakers help her stay pain-free.
Theyre super supportive and hug my high arches, she says.
I would recommend these to any runner, from the casual jogger to the marathon trainer, they said.
(The pairs APMA seal of acceptance is just the cherry on top.)
Some runners like this flatter profilebut if youve never tried it before, it can feel strange at first.
