The Best Women’s Running Shoes

Running is a popular form of exercise. It's a great way to push your body and get in shape. But you can't take up running without a quality pair of running shoes. The right pair of shoes can really make a difference, so don't start running in any old shoe. Unlike other types of shoes, running shoes help to cushion your feet from the impact of pounding the pavement. Their thick heels make this possible. They're also lightweight, so they won't slow you down. These shoes also have flexibility in key places, so you can move swiftly. If you are ready for a new pair of women's running shoes, your best bet is to choose from our favorites, which are reviewed in this article.

Nike Women’s Revolution 5 Running Shoe

Designed for a Variety of Surfaces

No matter what type of surface you are running on, these shoes will help you stay on course.
Best Overall

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If you enjoy getting some variety into your running routine, you need shoes that can keep up.  The durable rubber sole in this pair provides flexible traction that will work on the pavement, a track, or even when you’re charting a course off of the beaten path. I even enjoy wearing them while I run on a gravel road. They really are perfect for running anywhere.

Great traction isn’t the only thing these women’s running shoes have going for them. They are built for comfort and support. They’re made from a lightweight knit material that’s breathable. You’ll find plush padding inside. The soft foam midsole provides plenty of support each time your foot hits the ground. The tread on the bottom has spaces built-in, which allow your foot to flex naturally.

These running shoes are available in a variety of colors. You can purchase them in almost any size, from 5 through 12. They fit true to size, though you’ll want to check the size chart to make sure you order ones that fit your feet well.

Pros

  • Good traction on a variety of surfaces
  • Comfortable design with plush padding
  • Tread has spaces to allow your foot to flex

Cons

  • The shoes can occasionally squeak while you’re walking inside, which may be annoying

Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe

Hugs Your Foot

You want a comfortable shoe for running, and these have a soft Cloudfoam memory liner that feels great.
Most Comfortable

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Running shoes should hug your feet and provide comfort all the way around. Thanks to the soft liner made from Cloudfoam, these ones do just that. They are one of the most comfortable women’s running shoes that I’ve tried.  They provide a lot of cushioning and feel great. Another plus is that you can easily slip these shoes on. They’re perfect for when you’re in a hurry to hit the gym.

These running shoes don’t offer quite as much support as others, so if you’re doing high-intensity work or hitting the outdoor trails, I’d recommend going for a different pair. But, for running on a track or working out in a gym, these are the perfect running shoes.

You can pick up a pair of these running shoes in five different color combinations. They are available in sizes 5-12.

Pros

  • Really comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time
  • Can slip on quickly
  • Five different color options

Cons

  • The laces almost seem decorative, they don’t tighten up a lot
  • Don’t have as much support as some other running shoes, so keep in mind what you’ll be wearing them for

Nike TR 9 Women’s Running Shoe

Built to Support Your Foot

Good arch support can help prevent injuries to your foot, and keep your feet from hurting.
Best Arch Support

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Do you want a running shoe that offers excellent arch support? Give these ones a try. They are specifically designed to provide both medial and lateral arch support, so they distribute pressure evenly across your foot. If your feet are hurting in other running shoes, it may be worth giving the support in these a try.

These shoes have a strap across the top. This covers the laces and helps secure the shoe to your foot. However, it is a bit hard to adjust the laces underneath it. This may take you a bit of time to get used to, but once you do, the secure fit is great.

You can pick up these running shoes in sizes 5.5-9.5. They come in three different color options.

Pros

  • Excellent arch support for both medial and lateral arches
  • Help keep your feet from hurting
  • Secure tightly to your feet so they won’t feel like they’re slipping off

Cons

  • Hard to adjust the laces underneath the gore strap

Nike Women’s Reax Run 5 Running Shoes

Soften the Impact of the Pavement

Running on pavement can be hard on your body, but the right pair of running shoes can help.
Best for Road Running

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If you normally run on the roads, you need a pair of running shoes that can hold up to the impact. These running shoes are a great option. They feature special heel technology that helps to absorb the impact with each step you take. The rubber outsole provides durability, so you can run many miles before these shoes wear out.

You can lace these shoes up tightly, and they don’t easily come untied. The inside lining is comfortable, though you may want to wear socks that go above the ankle to avoid any uncomfortable rubbing. These shoes offer a decent amount of support for both your arch and your heel.

There are two different color options available. You can pick up these shoes in size 5-12, with a few half-sizes available.

Pros

  • Designed for road running
  • Heel technology to absorb impact so it won’t hurt your knees
  • Built to last, very durable so you can use them for a long time

Cons

  • The heel rubs a bit on the foot, so make sure your socks go up above it

STQ Women’s Running Shoes Breathable Air Cushion Sneakers

Inexpensive Running Shoes

You don't have to spend a fortune to get a decent pair of shoes to wear while you run.
Best on a Budget

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When you’re trying to stick to a budget, an expensive pair of running shoes may not be a possibility. It also might not make sense to invest a lot of money in running gear until you know that you’re going to stick with it.

Even though they cost less than many other options, these running shoes still provide the support you need while running. The mesh and synthetic material on the upper portion is breathable and lightweight. The soles provide air cushioning. The shoes fit snugly on your feet, but they aren’t so snug that they hurt. If you need to use custom orthotics, the inner liner in these running shoes comes out easily so you can slide yours in.

There are several color options available, including some fun color combinations. You can get them in sizes 5.5-10, including half sizes.

Pros

  • Fun color options available
  • Removable liner so it’s easy to add custom orthotics
  • Budget-friendly running shoe

Cons

  • Better for low mileage running, so if you’re training for a marathon you’ll want a different shoe

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you run in running shoes and not tennis shoes?

Running is a good way to get your blood pumping and get some exercise. But, it comes with some risks. Wearing the right pair of shoes can help minimize the risk. You need shoes that can absorb the impact of your feet on the ground. You need shoes that provide support. Running shoes are designed to do these things, while other shoes aren’t.

When should you replace running shoes?

Because of the impact, running shoes won’t last forever. Typically, a pair of running shoes will last up to 500 miles. This means the more you run, the more often you’ll need a new pair of shoes. Look for damage in the inside sole of your shoe. This often appears before the tread wears down. When your shoe stops offering the support you need, it’s time to get a different pair.