|

25 Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Comfort (2024)

If you are looking for the best cushioned running shoes, we have got you covered!

We’ve scrutinized every detail, analyzed comfort levels, and looked at durability to ensure we’re offering you top-notch options.

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, you’ll find a shoe that fits your needs.

Let’s dive in and find the perfect pair for you.

Here is the scoop on the best cushioned running shoes!

Adidas Ultraboost 23

It’s clear that anyone seeking superior cushioning in their running shoes should give the Adidas Ultraboost 23 a look.

As a neutral shoe, it’s one of the most comfortable running shoes we’ve tested, with soft cushioning that excels during long runs.

The comfort stems from the Ultraboost’s innovative design, featuring a breathable mesh upper and a plush midsole that’s perfect for daily trainer use.

The shoe’s cushioning doesn’t just provide comfort, it also delivers exceptional energy return, propelling you forward with each step.

To put it simply, if you’re on the hunt for the best cushioned running shoes, the Adidas Ultraboost 23 should be on your radar.

It’s a comfortable shoe that blends style, performance, and comfort.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

Next up on our list is the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39, a shoe that’s consistently impressed us with its responsive and plush cushioning. This cushioned running shoe offers a comfortable ride, thanks to its shock absorption capabilities.

Nike Men's Air Zoom Pegasus 39
$134.99
Buy Now
10/27/2024 10:52 am GMT

The breathable upper ensures your feet stay cool, even on long, high mileage runs. Ideal for daily training, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.

The rubber outsole provides extra grip, enhancing your running safety and confidence. If you’re searching for the right running shoe that combines a comfortable fit with durability, comfort, and style, look no further.

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39, with its balance of cushioning and responsiveness, is a worthy contender.

Brooks Ghost 14: A Runner’s Dream

Diving into our third pick, we’re absolutely thrilled by the comfort and performance offered by the Brooks Ghost 14, a dream shoe for any dedicated runner.

This cushioned running shoe, tested for comfort, provides a soft landing, making it an excellent running shoe for daily runs. The Brooks Ghost 14 is a runner’s dream, thanks to its exceptional comfort and support.

When you’re on the lookout for the best running shoes, you want to ensure you find the right pair of shoes to fit your needs. The Ghost 14 nails this aspect, with its cushioning offering a plush, comfortable ride.

If you crave a shoe that’ll give you miles of comfort, the Brooks Ghost 14 should definitely be on your radar. Truly, a runner’s dream.

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11

So, how does the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 stack up against our previous contender, the Brooks Ghost 14?

We’ve found the 1080v11 to be a versatile shoe, thanks to the new balance fresh foam x in its midsole. This cushioned shoe offers additional support for long distances, making it a comfortable option for those long hours on the trail.

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 1080 V11
$149.99 $117.82
Buy Now
10/27/2024 11:01 am GMT

The fresh foam more v contributes to a plush ride, while the midsole foam ensures responsiveness. This new shoe strikes a balance between cushioning and support, making it ideal for a variety of terrains.

Unlike the Brooks Ghost 14, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 seems to offer a smoother, more adaptable ride, upping the ante in the running shoe game.

Light & Airy: Asics Gel Nimbus 24

We’re switching gears now to the Asics Gel Nimbus 24, a light and airy option in the world of cushioned running shoes.

This latest version of the Asics Gel-Nimbus series stands out among the best shoes for everyday training. We’ve found that it offers enough cushion for comfort while maintaining the lightweight shoes aspect that runners crave.

In comparison to its previous versions, the new pair has managed to enhance comfort without adding unnecessary weight.

We’re impressed by the careful balance Asics has struck between cushioning and lightness. It’s a testament to their continuous effort to refine and improve their designs.

In terms of cushioned running shoes, the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 definitely merits consideration for its comfort and feather-light feel.

Hoka One One Clifton 8: Comfort Redefined

Next on our list is the crowd-pleaser, Hoka One One Clifton 8, a game-changer in the realm of cushioned running shoes.

Touted as one of the best cushioned running shoes, the Clifton 8 stands out as the softest shoe, guaranteeing smooth transitions and a smooth ride.

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Shoes
$198.50
Buy Now
10/27/2024 11:08 am GMT

A top pick among runners, it’s a great value and a good option for those seeking both relief and performance. Its plush cushioning ensures the feet are cradled in comfort, while the advanced midsole technology ensures efficient strides.

The Hoka One One Clifton 8 truly sets a new bar in the world of cushioned running shoes.

Salomon Predict RA: Unparalleled Cushioning

Moving on to another standout, our team found the Salomon Predict RA’s cushioning truly unparalleled.

This right shoe is among the most cushioned running shoes we’ve tested. The Predict RA’s unique design features softer midsoles that provide exceptional comfort, especially on hard surfaces.

Its thicker midsole also adds to the distinct feel and comfort that set it apart in the realm of best cushioned running shoes. The Salomon Predict RA’s cushioning absorbs impact remarkably well, reducing strain on your feet and providing superior support.

This shoe’s cushioning system not only ensures comfort but also adapts to your stride, offering a more personalized fit. Our testing validated the unparalleled cushioning of the Salomon Predict RA, making it a top pick for those seeking ultimate comfort.

Mizuno Wave Rider 25: Wave of Comfort

Switching gears to the Mizuno Wave Rider 25, its cushioning is a veritable wave of comfort.

These cushioned running shoes, rigorously tested for this article, present an exceptional blend of softness and responsiveness.

The wave plate technology, a hallmark of Mizuno, disperses impact forces for a smoother, more comfortable ride.

Mizuno Wave Rider 25
$139.95 $127.99
Buy Now
10/27/2024 11:20 am GMT

Contextually relevant to our 2024 article section, the shoe’s U4icX heel wedge adds another layer of plush, stress-absorbing cushioning, enhancing the overall comfort.

What’s more, the mesh upper provides a snug, breathable fit, rounding off the shoe’s comfort features.

The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 to be amongst the best running shoes for cushioning, living up to its moniker as a wave of comfort.

Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2

Diving right into our next pick, we’ve found the Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2 to be another superb option that offers a significant amount of cushioning.

Compared to previous models, this great shoe has a thicker midsole which provides much cushioning, a key feature that neutral runners will appreciate.

Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2
$142.99
Buy Now
10/27/2024 11:28 am GMT

It’s a good choice for those who felt the older model lacked padding. The Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2 maintains the best elements of the previous version, while improving upon areas of weakness.

It’s a great option that delivers a comfortable and responsive run.

With its innovative design and enhanced features, the Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2 stands out as a solid choice for runners seeking both comfort and performance.

Saucony Triumph 19: The Triumph of Cushioning

Next up on our list, we’re tackling the Saucony Triumph 19, a shoe that truly lives up to its name in terms of cushioning.

This edition of the Saucony Triumph series boasts a wider platform and a larger toe box than its previous iterations, offering a more comfortable fit for longer runs.

Saucony Triumph 19 Running Shoe
$150.00 $64.54
Buy Now
10/27/2024 07:29 pm GMT

Its impressive cushioned running shoes make it ideal for longer distances and recovery runs, providing a lightweight feel that’s much appreciated.

One of its standout features is the personal preference it caters to, offering varying levels of cushioning.

The Triumph 19 strikes an ideal balance between plush comfort and responsive bounce, making it a top contender for those seeking the ultimate in running shoe cushioning.

On Cloudstratus: Double-layered Comfort

Moving from the Triumph 19’s plush comfort, we’re now stepping into the double-layered cushioning world of the On Cloudstratus.

Compared to the Brooks Glycerin’s DNA Loft, the Cloudstratus offers an intriguing twist on cushioning – perfect for heavier runners looking for a walking shoe.

ON Cloudstratus Mesh Trainers
$417.69
Buy Now
10/27/2024 07:31 pm GMT

Its double layering provides a soft landing, yet firm push-off, a balance that isn’t achieved in the Saucony Endorphin Speed or Pro.

The Reebok Floatride Energy, while commendable, lacks the Cloudstratus‘ unique dual sensation.

For those with plantar fasciitis, the Cloudstratus might offer some relief, though the Saucony Ride’s cushioning still holds the top spot in that regard.

In comparison, this shoe is a unique blend of comfort and stability.

Reebok Floatride Energy 3: Energy Unleashed

Swinging into the realm of energetic cushioning, the Reebok Floatride Energy 3 delivers an explosively comfortable ride.

This shoe, perfect for comfort, stands out for its ‘energy unleashed’ phenomenon.

Its lower profile design offers enough room for your foot to move naturally, making it a great choice for easy runs.

Reebok has improved on its cushioning without compromising springiness, a good reason why it has gained popularity among runners.

This is a great choice of comfortable shoes you will love wearing!

Puma Deviate Nitro: Deviation Towards Comfort

Diving into theour next find, the Puma Deviate Nitro, a shoe that truly deviates towards comfort with its excellent cushioning system.

This model features a 8mm drop, similar to the favored hoka bondi, placing your foot in the right place for comfort and stability. The mm heel and toe drop are expertly designed, offering trail runners a major change in comfort.

The Nitro’s nylon plate, unlike the typical carbon plate, offers a unique deviation that enhances shock absorption. This, as many physical therapists assert, can significantly reduce impact stress.

The Nitro’s impressive features don’t stop there; its innovative cushioning system competes with the comfort of the hoka bondi.

The Puma Deviate Nitro is a promising step toward comfortable running.

Skechers Max Cushioning Elite

After delving into the comfort of the Puma Deviate Nitro, we’re now stepping into the realm of the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite.

This shoe stands out with its ULTRA GO cushioning platform, providing superior comfort and responsive feedback.

Skechers MAX Cushioning Elite
$100.00 $94.95
Buy Now
10/27/2024 07:53 pm GMT

We’ve noticed the forefoot flex grooves, enhancing flexibility and promoting a smooth transition. The shoe’s breathable mesh upper, combined with a padded collar and tongue, boosts the overall comfort factor.

We’re impressed by the durable rubber outsole, perfect for handling long runs. However, it’s a tad heavier than some. Regardless, the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite is a solid choice, offering plush comfort without compromise.

It’s a reliable partner for those seeking cushioned support on their running journey.

Altra Torin 5: Roomy & Cushioned

We’re moving on to the Altra Torin 5, a roomy and cushioned running shoe that’s next on our list.

Known for its wide toe box, the Torin 5 ensures a comfortable fit that allows natural toe splay, which is crucial for stability and balance.

Its midsole technology, Quantic™, delivers plush cushioning without compromising responsiveness, offering a great mix of comfort and performance.

The shoe’s FootPod™ outsole maps the foot’s bones and tendons, enhancing flexibility and promoting an efficient stride.

Furthermore, the Torin 5’s zero-drop design encourages a more natural foot strike, potentially reducing injury risk.

It’s a great pick for those seeking a cushioned shoe that doesn’t skimp on roominess or functionality.

Definitely one to consider in your search for comfort.

Inov-8 Roclite G 275: Off-road Comfort

Next up is the Inov-8 Roclite G 275, an exceptional off-road running shoe that offers remarkable cushioning.

The adaptive rubber outsole provides excellent grip, keeping you steady on muddy trails and rocky paths.

The Powerflow midsole, together with the cushioning, absorbs shock efficiently, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort

Moreover, the shoe’s upper is composed of hard-wearing materials that resist wear and tear, making it a durable choice.

Despite its rugged construction, the Roclite G 275 remains lightweight, ensuring you don’t feel weighed down. It’s the ideal blend of comfort, durability, and performance, making it a fantastic choice for trail runners seeking cushioned comfort.

Merrell MTL Long Sky: Trail Comfort

The Merrell MTL Long Sky to the test, a trail running shoe lauded for its exceptional cushioning and comfort. It doesn’t disappoint.

This shoe’s EVA foam midsole provides a plush feel underfoot, absorbing impact effortlessly. Its mesh and TPU upper ensures breathability, while the protective toe cap adds durability for challenging terrains.

The Vibram MegaGrip outsole offers superior traction, adding confidence to your stride on both wet and dry surfaces. Despite its robust construction, it’s surprisingly lightweight, enhancing comfort over long distances.

Merrell’s MTL Long Sky has proven to be a formidable contender in the realm of cushioned trail running shoes, merging comfort and performance seamlessly.

Topo Athletic Ultrafly 3: Balanced Cushioning

Moving on to the Topo Athletic Ultrafly 3, it offers a unique blend of cushioning and stability that’s hard to match.

This shoe features a three-density midsole, providing a responsive yet protective ride. The shoe’s distinct toe box design gives your feet room to spread and engage naturally during your strides, enhancing overall stability.

The underfoot cushioning is well-distributed, making it ideal for long-distance runs. Moreover, the strategically placed flex grooves on the outsole ensure flexibility without compromising on grip.

The Ultrafly 3’s upper is durable and breathable, contributing to comfortable, sweat-free runs. This shoe consistently delivers balanced cushioning, making it a top choice for runners seeking both comfort and stability.

361 Degrees Strata 3: All-round Comfort

Turning your attention to the Degrees Strata 3, it’s a standout in terms of all-round comfort. The shoe’s cushioning isn’t only plush but also well-distributed, providing an even, comfortable feel throughout.

The midsole material is soft yet responsive, striking a balance between comfort and performance. This shoe’s wide toe box ensures a non-restrictive fit, allowing your toes to splay naturally while running.

361 Strata 3 Running Shoe
$124.95
Buy Now
10/27/2024 08:39 pm GMT

The Strata 3’s upper material is breathable, contributing to the overall comfort. The outsole’s durable design adds to the shoe’s life while maintaining its cushiony feel.

In short, the Degrees Strata 3 provides comfort from every angle, making it an excellent option for those seeking a well-rounded running shoe.

Scott Supertrac 2.0: Mountain Comfort

Shifting our focus, the Scott Supertrac 2.0 is another top contender in the realm of comfortable running shoes, particularly well-suited for mountain terrain.

These shoes boast a superior cushioning system that absorbs shock on rocky trails, making your runs smoother and more comfortable.

SCOTT Supertrac RC 2 Shoes
$95.06


Buy Now
10/27/2024 08:43 pm GMT

The deep lugs in the outsole offer excellent traction, even on slippery slopes, and the robust upper provides solid support to keep your foot secure. Many are impressed with the roomy toe box that accommodates swelling during long runs.

In terms of durability, the Supertrac 2.0 stands out, with its high-abrasion rubber outsole and reinforced toe cap. Overall, we recommend the Scott Supertrac 2.0 to any runner seeking comfort and stability on mountainous terrain.

Columbia Montrail F.K.T: Fast & Cushioned

Next is the Columbia Montrail F.K.T, a shoe that combines speed with supreme cushioning. It offers an impressive blend of responsiveness and plush comfort, making it ideal for both short sprints and long runs.

The shoe’s well-engineered midsole provides a soft landing, absorbing shock effectively, while the lightweight upper maintains breathability, helping to keep your feet dry.

Notably, the outsole’s multidirectional lugs offer superior traction, even on wet surfaces. The fit is snug yet flexible, accommodating various foot shapes.

The durability of this model to be top-notch, ensuring it’ll serve you well for many miles.

Newton Running Gravity 9: Responsive Comfort

Continuing with our exploration, we have the Newton Running Gravity 9. It’s proven to deliver responsive comfort like no other.

Newton Running Gravity 9
$105.00


Buy Now
10/27/2024 08:52 pm GMT

The shoe’s design showcases an advanced lugged outsole that’s engineered for optimal responsiveness and durability. This, combined with its innovative cushioning technology, makes for a shoe that absorbs impact beautifully while ensuring a smooth transition from heel to toe.

The Gravity 9’s upper is lightweight and breathable, preventing overheating during long runs. Its unique metatarsal stretch panels adapt to your foot’s shape, providing a customized fit.

adidas Ozelle Running Shoe

The adidas Ozelle Running Shoe is a perfect blend of comfort and style, designed for women who prioritize both functionality and fashion in their active lifestyles.

Engineered with a focus on comfort, the Cloudfoam midsole ensures step-in comfort and superior cushioning, making every run or workout a pleasant experience.

The flexible upper, crafted from a combination of textile and leather, provides a soft feel and optimal comfort during extended wear.

The rubber outsole of the Ozelle delivers high traction, offering a secure grip on various surfaces for added stability.

Going beyond performance, these running-inspired shoes also contribute to environmental sustainability, as the upper is made with at least 50% recycled content.

This shoe proudly represents adidas’ commitment to reducing plastic waste and showcases one of their many initiatives in creating eco-friendly footwear.

La Sportiva Jackal: Tailored for Trails

Switching gears, the La Sportiva Jackal is an impressive trail champion, offering an exceptional level of cushioning.

The Jackal’s design is tailored for rugged terrains, employing a dual-density EVA midsole for a perfect balance between comfort and stability.

Its cushioning system absorbs shock remarkably well, ensuring a softer landing on rocky trails. Also, the shoe has an impressive grip, thanks to the durable Frixion rubber outsole.

La Sportiva Jackal GTX
$159.97
Buy Now
10/27/2024 09:01 pm GMT

This feature, combined with the multidirectional lug pattern, gives runners solid traction on slippery surfaces.

We’d also like to highlight the breathable mesh upper, which keeps your feet cool during strenuous runs. Overall, the Jackal excels in providing a cushioned, stable, and comfortable run on trails, making it a top pick for trail runners.

Veja Condor 2: Sustainable Comfort

Moving on to our next find, we can’t overlook the Veja Condor 2, a shoe that blends comfort with sustainability in a truly remarkable way.

We’re talking about a running shoe that’s not just designed for optimal comfort, but also committed to reducing environmental impact. The upper is made from recycled plastic bottles, the midsole from sustainable sugar cane, and the outsole from wild rubber.

Yet, it’s the cushioning that impresses us most. The shoe’s technology provides a responsive ride, ensuring that each step is comfortably absorbed. You’ll find that they’re lightweight, too, making long runs more manageable.

We believe the Veja Condor 2 successfully merges the worlds of comfort and sustainability, making it a top pick for conscious runners.

Final Thoughts

We’ve pounded the pavements and trails to bring you the best cushioned running shoes of 2024.

From the ultra-responsive Adidas Ultraboost 24 to the sustainable comfort of Veja Condor 2 or the Saucony Endorphin Pro, we’ve uncovered gems for every type of runner

For more recommendations, you can also speak with a physical therapist. They will have suggestions for shoes with a thick midsole or shoes with a certain mm drop

Whether you’re hitting city streets, rural roads, or rugged trails, rest assured there’s a pair in this roundup to keep your feet comfy.

Remember, the right pair of shoes can make a world of difference in your running experience.

So, if you have spent the last year wishing you had new shoes or just went up a half size in your current pair, we hope this list help you!

The 25 best cushioned running shoes for ultimate comfort.

For more great scoop, check out these articles:

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.