Are you searching for the best running shoes for men? If so, then this rundown is perfect for you!
Running shoes are essential gear for running and other related sports and activities. In fact, these shoes are the only investment that you might need for you to be able to cover numerous miles and countless terrains. Hence, it is just right to settle first and inspect all of your choices before picking the ideal pair.
Of course, I have some recommendations, too, for those who are in a rush. The following footwear below is some of the top-rated running shoes that many speedsters are using these days. Check them out!
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | Trail | Cushioning | |
| Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 Road-Running Shoes | 8mm | Road-running | Moderate cushion |
| Saucony Peregrine 11 GTX Trail-Running Shoes | 4mm | Rugged trail | Moderate cushion |
| HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Road-Running Shoes | 5mm | Road-running | Maximum cushion |
| Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail-Running Shoes | 10mm | Rugged trail | Moderate cushion |
| Altra Olympus 4 Trail-Running Shoes | 10mm | Rugged trail | Maximum cushion |
| Brooks Ghost 14 Road-Running Shoes | 12mm | Road-running | Moderate cushion |
| HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 5 Road-Running Shoes | 5mm | Road-running | Maximum cushion |
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 sets the standards when it comes to running shoes. It provides exceptional fit and reliable support to cater to even the most extensive and rugged runners. This footwear features enhanced heel support and a brand-new lacing system. These new components enable the shoe to provide a secure and snug fit to its users. It won't be too tight or too loose, allowing you to run efficiently and distraction-free over long distances.
Meanwhile, the ultralight PWRRUN PB cushioning system of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 cushioning provides sufficient impact absorption and fatigue mitigation while you are on the move. Such a design enables you to run at high speeds without encountering any strains on your foot. Furthermore, this shoe has been embedded with the SPEEDROLL architecture. The latter generates a stable rolling feel on the underfoot, which, in turn, guarantees fast yet natural running stances.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
For trail-running and off-road purposes, the Peregrine 11 GTX of Saucony is an excellent gear for your feet. This shoe wouldn't let the snow or mud prevent you from running optimally. It provides exceptional waterproofing on its upper, thanks to its GORE-Tex Invisible Fit technology. The latter doesn't only make your feet protected from moisture and water; it also guarantees that the shoe remains flexible and light in damp conditions.
Similar to the Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, this pair of footwear also uses the PWRRUN cushioning system. It makes the gear extra responsive every time you are wearing it. The shoe's rock plate guarantees added protection to your feet every time you go uphill or downhill. The Peregrine 11 GTX boasts aggressive lugs construction so that it can grip any surface with ease.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
HOKA is a brand that specializes in manufacturing high-quality running shoes. A proof of this is the ultralight ONE Clifton 8. The latter is a top-caliber running shoe; it is rigged with a lightweight midsole foam that seemingly disappears when you are stepping on it. But at the same time, the midsole offers superb cushion and support to your feet.
Furthermore, the ONE Clifton 8 has breathable mesh uppers to prevent your feet from getting steamy. Its ultra-plush tongues do no only give extra comfort; it also improves the shoe's fit. There are also pull tabs on its architecture for hassle-free entry. Meanwhile, the crash pads on the footwear's heels have been increased for enhanced protection and durability. You'll also notice that it has a flat-waisted structure, which, in turn, allows it to offer more stability to its users.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
One impeccable feature that Salomon Speedcross 5 offers is its firm grip. Designed to be trail-running shoes, this footwear has the patented Contagrip rubber outsoles that utilize deep and sharp lugs. The material strikes the perfect balance between grip and durability, allowing the shoe to attain friction even on soft and loose surfaces. Moreover, the heel units ensure additional cradles to the heels, allowing stability and cleanliness in your foot strike.
The fully welded uppers have dissociated SensiFit arms that allow them to move smoothly with your feet. The SensiFit technology cradles your feet from laces to midsoles and vice-versa, allowing a more snug and secure fit. Speaking of midsoles, its EnergyCell+ high-rebound midsoles enhance the impact absorption that the shoe can provide. They ensure that your feet are comfortable and protected while on the run.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
With the Altra Olympus 4 Trail-Running Shoes, striding and riding on rugged trails would be a lot easier. It has an impressive cushioning system that would allow you to conquer rocky and stiff terrains. Meanwhile, its Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles guarantee superb traction, regardless of where you are going to take it. The proprietary InnerFlex midsole technology of the shoe elevates its performance and stability. Impacts and strains will never deter you from going full speeds.
You should also see its rounded heels to foster the smoothness of all your steps--from heel to toe. And to partner with that, the Altra Olympus 4 also integrated premium tongues for a more stable fit and comfort to your feet. The signature cushioning of Altra, as well as its FootShape toe boxes, provide more space for your toes to spread out. Such a construction fosters low-impact, injury-free stances.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
The Brooks Ghost 14 Road-Running Shoes has a well-defined architecture, allowing its users to run without fussing over anything. Its midsoles have brand-new DNA LOFT cushioning. It's extra soft and provides a smooth stride, regardless of the distance you are traversing. Moreover, the midsoles are being coupled with the segmented Crash Pads so that the shoe can give enhanced heel-to-toe transitions, even if you are moving at speeds.
Of course, you can expect that the Brooks Ghost 14 Road-Running Shoes is a pair of breathable footwear. It has a lightweight synthetic mesh upper that promotes uncluttered air circulation so that your feet won't get sweaty. Fitting this gear isn't that difficult, thanks to its 3D Fit Print construction. The latter merges the benefits of structure and stretch to the shoe. As a result, it can provide foot-specific fit and comfort to every runner out there.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Impressively enough, the HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 5 Road-Running Shoes have achieved what other running shoes couldn't. Specifically, it offers maximum cushioning but without being heavy. It's not a surprise as to why many runners are so eager to wear this gear on their next runs. Furthermore, the shoe has engineered mesh uppers that provide ventilation and comfort. It also has a mesh on its midfoot and heel for added security. You'll also find an open mesh on its forefoot that amplifies its breathability.
The Arahi 5 provides an ergonomic collar shape; it reduces the pressure sent to the Achilles, which, in turn, can prevent injuries. It also includes J-frames that prevent your overpronation and an inward rolling of your feet. Meanwhile, its low-profile footbeds are cushioned and can maintain the proximity of your feet in the ground. In this way, you would be able to propel your feet quickly and steadily. Access to the shoe is quite convenient due to its pull tabs.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Here are some basic guidelines in choosing the ideal running shoes for men:
When it comes to choosing any footwear, the fit is a crucial factor. A wrong fit can cause a lot of discomfort and disappointments. So don't get into that predicament.
The right fit doesn't mean that the shoe will be too tight or too loose. It should be in the middle. It should be snug enough for it to remain secure on your feet but should have enough space so that it won't feel restricting.
Here are some tips when it comes to finding the right fit:
It is also essential that you inspect the "level" of cushioning that a running shoe can provide. Technically speaking, the cushion of the shoe can influence your performance on the road. The cushion is there to make your feet extra comfortable. At the same time, it helps absorb the impact of your strides.
But of course, not all runners should prefer an excessive cushion. Some may only need the cushion to be minimal. After all, the latter gives more feel to your feet. Here are the options that you have for the cushioning of the shoe.
In simplest terms, heel-toe drop refers to the height or distance between the ball of your feet and your heel while wearing shoes. Many runners and experts have different opinions regarding the importance of heel-toe drop in preventing injuries. However, all of them would agree that the distance of the drop can influence the force distribution in your feet and legs. As a result, it could easily affect your natural stride.
Most of the running shoes today have a heel drop of at least 10mm. These types of shoes offer high levels of cushioning in the heels, which, in turn, promotes better landing. On the other hand, shoes that have zero heel-toe drops are those that have equal cushioning on their toes and heels. If the drop is low, then the shoe will let you do a midfoot strike while running. But of course, doing this would mean that you have to work your Achilles tendon rigidly.
In a nutshell, choosing the best running shoes for men will require you to take a look at different factors and considerations. It is not just about the appearance, brand, or price of the footwear. You need to be diligent enough to assess the fit, comfort, and support that the shoe can provide to you.
Furthermore, you also have to inspect the quality of materials used in their construction. You don't want these shoes to break or wear out quickly!
Of course, I encourage you to check out the running shoes I've listed here. They are far from sloppy and can cater to different running trails and clinics.
That's it for now. If you have related inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below!
