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Best Running Shoes of 2026

group of people running in on running shoes

Gearing up for a new round of training often leaves runners with a difficult decision—sticking with their go-to pair of running shoes or trying a new brand or style. Whether you’re shopping for your first pair of running shoes or your 100th, it’s important to know that many different factors go into choosing the right running shoes including your foot pronation, training program, and fitness level. Our Footwear Experts share a complete list of what they believe to be the best running shoes of 2026.

Our Complete Best Running Shoes List

Best Daily Running Shoe

Nike Pegasus 41

Why we love it:

  • Sockliner for a secure, comfortable fit

  • Waffle-inspired outsole for traction and flexibility

  • ReactX foam midsole and Air Zoom units in the heel

Best Overall Women’s Running Shoes

Hoka Clifton 10

Why we love it:

  • Addition of a double-lace lock for easy in and out

  • Higher stack height for better comfort on daily runs

  • Improved fit and added cushioning compared to the Clifton 9 for a smooth ride

Best Overall Men’s Running Shoes

Brooks Glycerin 22

  • Broad platform to stabilize your foot

  • Nitrogen-infused DNA for plush landings

  • Flexible, accommodating fit with the double jacquard knit upper

Wyatt | SCHEELS Expert
Wyatt | SCHEELS Expert

Why Our Experts Love the Brooks Glycerin

“I use the Brooks Glycerin for both my everyday run and work shoe. With the new nitrogen infused DNA cushioning, it is responsive yet incredibly soft and comfortable. Throughout my work day, I do a ton of steps and stairs, so my legs and knees thank me every time I wear them.”

Best Stability Running Shoe

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24

Here’s why we love it:

  • GuideRails technology keeps feet and knees in alignment

  • Great for running, walking, or basic support for any activity

  • Newly added nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam for soft, smooth cushioning

Best Neutral Running Shoe

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v15

Why we love it:

  • Lightweight yet cushioned feel

  • Versatile for everyday training to racing

  • Mesh upper provides support yet breathability

Best All-Around Racing Shoe

Nike Vaporfly 3

Why we love it:

  • Super lightweight, breathable upper

  • Added ZoomX foam for smooth transitions

  • Full-length carbon fiber flyplate for a stiff and propulsive feel

Best Trail Running Shoe

On Cloudsurfer Trail

Why we love it:

  • Waterproof membrane to keep feet dry

  • CloudTec Phase® midsole for a smooth stride

  • Missiongrip™ rubber outsole means traction and stability

Best Value Running Shoe

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 27

Why we love it:

  • Modern look

  • Versatile choice for a variety of workouts or distances

  • Cushioning provides softer landings and energized feel

Whether you’re just starting to run or have been running for years, finding the best running shoes that suit your needs is incredibly important to staying motivated throughout training. If you need additional help or have questions about how to pick running shoes, contact your local SCHEELS to speak with one of our Footwear Experts.

How We Picked These Products

SCHEELS is focused on offering Expert-level knowledge about the products we sell, which is why we host our SCHEELS University alongside regular trainings where our associates learn directly from top brands to deepen their product knowledge. This experience combined with firsthand experience and feedback from customers is what helps us select these products to recommend as the best for your training.

About our Experts

Wyatt | SCHEELS Expert
Wyatt | SCHEELS Expert

Wyatt grew up running with his brothers. After getting a serious ankle injury and being told he may never walk again, Wyatt was determined to prove this wrong. He began training little by little, eventually becoming strong enough to run. Since then, he’s completed 5Ks, a marathon, and is training for more competitions.