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Buying the best running shoes isn’t as simple as you might think. In fact, it involves a variety of aspects, including biomechanics, weight, support, comfort, durability, and cushioning.
If you are a pro runner or follow an active lifestyle, this is the article for you. Here, we will try to disclose the prominent features of the top-rated running shoes.
All of the products mentioned below are associated with renowned and popular brands. Therefore, you can rely on their durability, performance, and overall functionality.
For a better understanding of these running shoes, let’s dig into our review section.
Best Running Shoes for Men Reviews
ASICS Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe
The ASICS Gel-Venture 6 running shoe persuades you to get out and explore. This particular shoe is specifically designed to offer required support on rugged terrain.
Its high-abrasion rubber and trail-specific outsole ensures amazing traction. With its Rearfoot GEL Cushioning, it can absorb most of the shocks. As a result, you stay comfortable while running on an uneven path.
Product Highlights
The ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe is a pair of durable and comfortable running shoes. With its removable sock liner, you can insert custom orthotics for a personalized and perfect fit.
It’s a lightweight running shoe that weighs only 11.2 oz. This suggests that you won’t feel any discomfort while wearing these shoes for long periods of time.
Made from synthetic and imported materials, these shoes offer a maximum level of durability and reliability. The comfortable rubber sole provides better traction, as well.
The patented Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System helps to attenuate shock and absorbs impacts. Plus, the removable sock liner helps to customize the shoe to meet your orthotic needs.
Moreover, the trail-specific outsole offers a secure grip on slippery or uneven terrain. The presence of reverse lugs ensures better traction when going uphill and downhill.
The Good
The best thing about this running shoe is its overall performance and traction. The sole comes with specifically designed lugs that offer a better and secure grip on a less stable surface.
The Bad
The overall design of this shoe isn’t that impressive. In fact, it is designed in an old-fashioned way. This aspect may affect the purchase decision of some people.
However, if you don’t pay much attention to the design and layout of running shoes, you can go with this option.
PROS
- Synthetic and durable material
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- Fits perfectly well
- Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System
- Removable sock liner for the desired customization
CONS
- Design could be a bit better
Skechers Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker
Skechers is known for manufacturing trendy footwear that proves to be appealing for almost every man, woman, and child. The product under discussion is the Skechers Men’s Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker.
It is designed in the latest and most innovative way. With its air-cooled memory foam, these shoes ensure added comfort. In addition, Skechers has always tried to be ahead of the fashion curve.
Product Highlights
The Skechers Men’s Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker is constructed with smooth leather, a mesh fabric upper, and synthetic materials. Due to its perforated details, it allows your feet to stay cool.
In addition, the fabric lining, memory foam insole, and padded collar are some of the amazing features of this shoe. The Articu-Lyte sole is flexible and made with high-traction rubber.
The most obvious reason for the company’s popularity is the manufacturing of diversified, high-quality, and affordable shoes. Constructed with 100% leather and synthetic materials, this shoe offers the highest level of durability.
The Good
This lace-up sneaker features a mesh upper, which also comes with a padded collar and supportive overlays. As a result, the shoe becomes more than comfortable.
The Bad
The outsole of this shoe isn’t as durable as you may expect from a product of this stature. This may turn out to be disappointing if you can’t wear your shoes after only a few months of owning them.
PROS
- Trendy and fashionable design
- Comfortable and safe
- Breathable mesh upper
- Offers good traction and flexibility
CONS
- Less durable outsole
Under Armour Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe
Under Armour is another popular name when it comes to the manufacturing of running shoes. The overall design and functionality of the Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe is satisfactory.
This shoe is specifically designed to meet the needs of athletes and those living an active lifestyle. If you are looking for a comfortable and easy-to-wear pair of running shoes, this is the option to consider.
Product Highlights
The Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe is made of imported and highly durable materials. The rubber sole is more than comfortable. Besides that, it offers maximum protection against bumps and slippery surfaces.
It’s an ideal choice if you prefer both flexibility and cushioning. The lightweight construction of this shoe involves a mesh upper, which enhances its overall breathability.
The presence of durable leather ensures stability and adds more value to the appearance of these running shoes. In addition, the EVA sock liner makes them easy to wear and take off.
With its Charged Cushioning midsole, you won’t even feel any major bumps. This technology utilizes compression-molded foam, which improves the durability and responsiveness of the sole. Moreover, it offers an optimal level of cushioning and energy return.
The Good
The most amazing feature of this shoe is its impressive design. Apart from being simple, this shoe appears to be trendy, too. Furthermore, its lightweight construction allows you to wear it as a regular or everyday shoe.
The Bad
The perforated textile catches a lot of dust and debris. This means that you might need to clean these shoes quite often.
PROS
- Made from durable and lightweight materials
- Easy to wash and clean
- Affordable running shoes
- A perfect combination of synthetic and textile
- EVA sock liner for extended comfort
- Perfectly fits the size
CONS
- Attracts a lot of dust and debris
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe
The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe is a viable option if you are in need of perfect running shoes.
This particular shoe has been designed and engineered by using smart technologies. This ensures the right fit and highest level of functionality for almost every user.
Product Highlights
The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe offers an ideal combination of synthetic materials and mesh. When it comes to foot support, it turns out to be a perfect choice for most runners. It provides maximum support to almost every runner.
Usually, running shoes are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of the runner. However, Brooks thought ahead of its competitors. The patented GuideRail Support System helps to also protect the knees of the runner.
It prevents the feet, as well as knees, from suffering any kind of unexpected injury. The GuideRail serves as an innovative feature that allows you to run without compromising your comfort level.
Besides this, the shoe also appears to be soft and protective. These shoes offer the required amount of protection and cushioning as you go running. It would seem that you aren’t running but rather floating over the road.
Talking about the comfort level offered by this shoe, it comes with a variety of innovative technologies. These include DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA. The cushioning provided by this shoe is just right.
The softness doesn’t lower the responsiveness and durability. Moreover, it is one of the lightest footwear options manufactured by a company. As a result, you can wear it as your regular/everyday pair of shoes.
Due to its modernized fit and the 3D Fit Print, the overall design of this shoe is quite impressive. The upper part of the shoe offers a streamlined look.
The Good
The most outstanding feature of this shoe is the GuideRails Holistic Support System. This mechanism not only offers comfort and support to the foot but also ensures safety for the knee.
The Bad
This shoe comes with a mesh upper. Although there is an element of synthetic material, the overall construction of this shoe doesn’t make it water-resistant. Moreover, this particular shoe by Brooks is expensive, making it less viable for some.
PROS
- Helps to keep the foot cool due to its breathable upper
- Comfortable and cushioned feel
- Offers foot and knee support
- Lightweight and durable
CONS
- Slightly expensive for some
Nike Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer
The Nike Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer is a great option if you are looking for comfortable training shoes. Its durable upper is made of leather, which enhances the overall support and comfort.
Product Highlights
Besides being the most popular name in fitness and sports equipment and footwear, this brand has become a symbol of quality and performance. Since its inception, Nike has been associated with manufacturing only high-quality products.
The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer is one such product, and we are going to review it here. The basic purpose of this running shoe was to create a perfect shoe that would appeal to a mature audience.
Therefore, these shoes are comfortable and designed in a classic way. While talking about the overall construction of this running shoe, let’s start by discussing its upper.
The upper of the Air Monarch IV is made of leather. This makes it strong and stiff. The leather upper offers overlays for perforations and support. However, it isn’t as breathable as you may experience with mesh and fabric.
The fabric lining on the inner side of the shoe feels comfortable and allows you to wear these shoes for a longer period. Moreover, its midsole is comfortable, too, as it is made of Phylon foam.
The patented Air-Sole unit offers the desired cushioning and support. Apart from durability and comfort, its solid rubber outsole tends to offer maximum traction over almost every surface.
Besides that, it is lightweight and easy to wear. The provision of a mesh shoe tongue increases breathability. Furthermore, the heel pull-tab allows you to easily wear and remove these shoes.
The Good
The outsole of the Air Monarch IV is made of solid rubber. Due to the use of this material, the shoe offers better traction. Hence, these shoes prove to be safe and stable while walking on a slippery and shiny surface.
The Bad
The biggest concern for some users is the less durable sole of this particular pair of running shoes. The outsole has been reported to peel off after a couple of months.
PROS
- Suitable option for people with wider feet
- Fits true to size
- Durable and comfortable upper
- Can be worn as an everyday shoe
- Affordable running shoes
CONS
- Not that breathable
BUYER’S GUIDE
After discussing the pros, cons, and essential features of these excellent shoes, it’s time to learn how to buy the best running shoes for men.
In this buyer’s guide, we will try to explain all the key aspects that you should consider when making such a purchase.
Size
This is one of the most essential factors to consider when buying any kind of shoes. This is important, as a high-quality and well-designed running shoe won’t serve the purpose well if it doesn’t fit perfectly.
A perfect fit not only ensures comfort but also enhances the durability of the shoe. Therefore, when searching for an ideal running shoe, make sure to know whether it is available in the right size.
Material
Taking about the material of a running shoe, you should never settle for low-quality construction. If the material of a shoe is of good quality, you will definitely experience additional comfort and durability.
Moreover, you should be clear as to what type of material would be perfect for your feet. For instance, if your feet sweat a lot, you should try to choose shoes with a perforated upper.
Besides this, try to opt for running shoes that are made of lightweight and durable material. It will also allow you to keep wearing the shoes all day long.
Sole and Arch Support
The sole of a running shoe must be specifically designed to offer maximum comfort and support. Similar is the case with arch support. It is the most essential part of a shoe, as it helps to support the foot in the desired manner.
As a result, you won’t feel any kind of pain or discomfort while running on rough terrain. A perfectly designed arch support also prevents your feet from collapsing.
If, unfortunately, you have bought running shoes with improper or no arch support, it may lead to plantar fasciitis (a common foot injury).
To prevent your foot from such a condition, it would be appropriate to find a running shoe that comes with the required arch support.
Design
When it comes to the design of a running shoe, the selection criteria merely depends on personal choice and preferences. It is possible that a pair of running shoes may appear to be quite impressive to you but be disliked by your friend.
Therefore, the first thing that you may look at in the design of a running shoe is its overall appearance. If it looks good to you, the next step is to take a look at its other features.
Apart from this, you should also take into account the comfort level ensured by a specific design. There are certain design features that do not add much to the aesthetics of a shoe, yet they prove to enhance comfort.
Cushioning
This particular factor is of great importance for people with rigid feet and high arches. The cushioning mechanism offers the required level of flexibility to the shoe.
As a result, the person wearing this type of shoe will stay more relaxed and comfortable. With proper cushioning support, you can wear the shoe for longer than expected.
Prior to buying a running shoe, it is essential to know your foot type. If your foot has high arches, it would be better to go for running shoes that come with decent cushioning support.
F.A.Q.
How should running shoes fit?
If you are not sure how a running shoe should fit, here are some of the basic signs to judge the overall fitting.
The running shoe should feel snug, especially in the midfoot and heel area. Moreover, when standing, you should analyze the proper width and length of the shoe.
You can do this by feeling the toes while pressing down on the front part of the shoes with your thumb. A perfect fit generally allows for a reasonable space the size of your thumbnail.
How many miles do running shoes usually last?
This aspect largely depends on the durability and type of usage. If you are using your running shoes on a clean and paved track, it may offer maximum mileage.
On the contrary, running shoes won’t last long if you are continuously using them on rough terrain. As a whole, good quality running shoes may last for roughly 500 miles.
This is the highest range you can expect for a running shoe. However, it is possible only if the shoes are of top-notch quality and fit perfectly to your feet.
How to lace running shoes?
Although there are numerous ways to lace your running shoes, a few of the most common options are mentioned below.
Loop lacing: This lacing style ensures true comfort. When you are done with the lacing, make sure to create a loop at both the ends of the laces. It will offer a more snug fit and help to prevent the foot from changing its position inside the shoe.
Skip-lacing: You can use this type of lacing technique if you have a high midfoot. It is similar to the cross-over lacing technique, yet it is relatively simpler than that. To lace your running show by using this technique, just skip the loop at the desired location or eyelet.
Extra eyelet: If you easily slip out of your shoes, use the extra eyelet lacing technique. For this purpose, you can create an additional eyelet at the top end of your shoe.
Cross-over lacing: This technique works by loosening the middle part of the lacing area. For this purpose, skip crossing the laces through two eyelets on the same side of the shoe.
How much should running shoes weigh?
As a matter of fact, the weight of an average, mid-level running shoe (for men) may turn out to be 9.5 ounces or 270 grams. On the contrary, running shoes for women are smaller and are relatively lighter.
A lighter running shoe performs much better than a heavier one. However, heavier shoes aren’t that bad. In fact, the selection of light or heavy running shoes depends on the type of terrain and your style of running.
Therefore, as a runner, it’s up to you to choose the most appropriate option. It also involves your own preferences. If you need more cushioning and comfort, you might choose a bit heavier running shoe.
What to do with old running shoes?
If you are done with your running shoes, don’t just throw them out. Here are some of the best possible implementations/utilizations of your old running shoes.
First of all, you can think about donating your running shoes if they are in good condition.
Give your old running shoes to any of the recycling companies serving in your area.
Keep your old running shoes for specific outdoor conditions (wet or muddy tracks).
FINAL VERDICT
If you are on a quest to find the best running shoe, just take a look at the review and buyer’s guide above. After reading the contents of our comprehensive review section, it should be much easier for you to make a decision.
In the same manner, the buyer’s guide offers you the necessary information that you may need to buy running shoes. For instance, you must know your foot type and exact size.
Moreover, you should also consider buying a running shoe that comes with perfect cushioning support. It helps to ensure the required level of safety and comfort.
This is important, as the right type of running shoe can prevent you from foot or knee injury. Besides that, a perfect running shoe also assists to promote your overall performance.
