11 Best Running Shoes for Men: ASICS, adidas, Nike and More (2026)

Perhaps the most common question new runners ask is, “What’s the best running shoe?” The answer is: it depends. Sorry, but it’s the truth. Whether you’re training for a half-marathon, aiming to get faster, or simply looking for a good pair of shoes to kick off your running routine, there’s no one-size-fits-all option.

For men in particular, you’re already starting from a good place. Most running shoes are designed with a male foot shape in mind (broader through the heel, wider in the collar). Basically, there are plenty of incredible running shoes out there, you just need to match them to how, where, and why you run. So, we’ve done the hard work (and the long runs) to bring you our guide to the best running shoes for men in 2026.

Looking for more men’s sneaker options? We have a whole page dedicated to all things sneakers, including reviews and round-ups.

RELATED: Our Guide on the Best Sneakers for Men to Help You Find Your Favourite Style

Best Running Shoes for Men Overview

When it comes to the best running shoes for men, the right shoe for you depends on where and how you run. After a standout all-rounder? The adidas Adizero Evo SL is a top pick among the pros – light, responsive, and ready for anything from tempo runs to marathons. Need something reliable without splashing out? The adidas Questar 3 delivers reliable performance for everyday training at a great price. For daily comfort, the ASICS Novablast 5 brings that soft, springy feel that many runners love, while the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 is a go-to if you need more stability underfoot. And if your runs take you off the beaten track, the New Balance Hierro V9 is built to handle rough terrain without sacrificing comfort.

Related read: Where to Buy ASICS Sydney Marathon-Winning Running Shoes

Who Should Buy What

Not sure where to start? Here’s the TL;DR:

• New to running or on a budget: adidas Questar 3. Solid, reliable, won’t break the bank.
• Want one shoe that does everything: adidas Adizero Evo SL. Light enough for speed, cushioned enough for long runs.
• Daily training, easy kilometres: ASICS Novablast 6. Bouncy, comfortable, built to last.
• Running off-road or on trails: New Balance Hierro V9. Grips anything, protects your feet.
• Training for a half or full marathon: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 or New Balance 1080v15.
• Recovering from injury or need extra support: ASICS Gel-Kayano 33. Stability without being stiff.
• Heavier build (100kg+): Brooks Glycerin Max. Maximum cushioning, maximum protection.
• Race day: Saucony Endorphin Elite 3. Carbon plate, elite foam, built to go fast.
• Want the best ASICS money can buy: ASICS Superblast 3. Soft, bouncy, surprisingly versatile.

Best Running Shoes for Men in 2026

Best Running Shoes Overall – adidas Adizero Evo SL

Lightweight, punchy, and built for distance, the adidas Adizero Evo SL is one of 2026’s best all-rounders. It swaps carbon plates for a more natural ride, thanks to a forefoot rocker and full-length Lightstrike Pro foam that delivers impressive bounce. Clocking in at just over 200g, it’s ideal for runners chasing pace over long distances, from steady tempo runs to race-day efforts. The only trade-off? A softer heel that might feel a little unstable during slower recovery runs.

Pros:

• Responsive and versatile cushioning with marathon-ready protection​
• Extremely lightweight for high-mileage runs​

Cons:

• Not as propulsive as carbon-plated “super shoes”​
• Slightly narrow fit in the forefoot

Best Budget Running Shoes – adidas Questar 3

If you’re after value without compromise, the adidas Questar 3 is tough to beat. Sitting comfortably at the $130 mark, it delivers dependable cushioning, solid durability, and a smooth ride. EVA midsole isn’t built for speed, but for walking, jogging, and casual mid-distance training, it’s more than capable. The breathable upper and hard-wearing outsole also make it a strong pick for everyday wear.

Pros:

• Breathable and stable upper 
• Smooth, cushioned ride suitable for walking and jogging 

Cons:

• Forgoes responsive bounce; feels firm at higher speeds 

Alternate pick: adidas Adizero SL2 – excellent mid-range performance at under AU$170.

Best Everyday Running Shoes – ASICS Novablast 6

The ASICS Novablast 6 is the freshest version of ASICS’s best-selling daily trainer, and it’s had a serious overhaul for 2026. The big news is a forefoot pod of FF Turbo Squared foam, which adds a noticeably bouncier, more energetic toe-off compared to the Novablast 5. The heel uses the softer FF Blast Max for cushioned landings, while the updated geometry pushes you forward into the forefoot. It’s best for easy and long runs, and rewards runners who land at the midfoot or forefoot with a snappy, lively feel. The upper has also been updated with a new engineered woven mesh that’s comfortable and secure.

Pros:

• Bouncier forefoot thanks to new FF Turbo Squared foam
• Lightweight for its stack height
• Excellent durability

Cons:

• FF Blast Max in the heel feels flat at faster paces
• Clunky heel transition for heel strikers

Best Trail Running Shoes for Men – New Balance Hierro V9

Trail runners, this one’s built for you. The New Balance Hierro V9 is a rugged workhorse designed for tough Aussie conditions (gravel, bush tracks, uneven terrain). Its Vibram outsole grips just about anything, while the thick Fresh Foam X midsole keeps things comfy over the long haul. It’s a little on the heavier side, but that bulk brings protection and durability. Bonus: a roomier fit that’s perfect for wider feet or thicker socks on cooler days. The Hierro V10 is slated for an August 2026 release, if you’re interested.

Pros:

• Ample foam, plush ride, and rugged Vibram outsole 
• Superior durability and reliable toe protection for trails 

Cons:

• Heavy, less nimble feel; may get warm in hotter conditions 
• Moderate breathability with thick mesh construction 

Alternate picks: Salomon S/Lab Genesis v2 Courtney Edition (technical trails) or On Cloudultra Pro (long-distance comfort). 

Best Road Running Shoes for Men – Saucony Endorphin Speed 5

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 earns its place as one of 2026’s best plated trainers: fast, responsive, and surprisingly versatile. It refines the already-loved formula from previous models with better stability, smoother transitions, and a touch more durability. The combination of lively PWRRUN PB foam and a flexible nylon plate delivers serious energy return without the stiffness of a full carbon setup, making it ideal for runners who want speed with comfort. The Endorphin Speed 6 will be out in August 2026.

Pros:

• Snappy, responsive feel with excellent energy return
• Stable ride with smoother transitions and SPEEDROLL rocker
• Flexible plate is comfortable enough for daily miles

Cons:

• Trades a bit of agility for added stability
• Can feel bulky for runners who prefer a minimalist ride

Alternate picks: HOKA Mach 6, New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, and Brooks Ghost 17.

Best Nike Running Shoes for Men – Nike Vomero Plus

If your runs focus on stacking up long, easy kilometres, the Nike Vomero Plus is your recovery-day hero. It’s one of Nike’s softest options, thanks to a full ZoomX midsole that glides you from step to step. With a high stack height and cushy fit, it’s made for comfort above all, which is perfect for runners who like a plush feel without losing too much responsiveness.

Pros:

• Ultra-plush cushioning and wider fit 
• Great for long and recovery runs with excellent heel support 

Cons:

• Mutes ground feel (less agility)
• Tall stack may feel unstable for some 

Alternate picks: Nike Pegasus 41 (versatile, great value for all-round use) or a racing option Nike Alphafly 3 (elite carbon-plated marathon shoe).

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Men – ASICS Superblast 3

The ASICS Superblast 3 is the super trainer to beat in 2026. ASICS has swapped out the firmer top layer of previous versions for an ultra-plush FF Leap foam, creating an incredibly soft yet responsive ride. Despite its massive stack height (over 45mm in the heel), it remains astonishingly light at just 239 grams. The upper has also been refined, offering a roomier toe box that fixes the cramped feeling of version 2. It’s a versatile beast that can handle long, easy miles and tempo workouts with equal ease.

Pros:

• Exceptionally soft and bouncy FF Leap foam
• Incredibly lightweight for a max-cushion shoe
• Roomier, more comfortable toe box than previous versions

Cons:

• High stack height isn’t for everyone
• Premium price tag ($340)

Alternate picks: ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 (best stability option) or the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo for elite racing performance. 

Best Running Shoes for Heavy Runners – Brooks Glycerin Max

If you’re pushing 90kg or more, the Brooks Glycerin Max is built to handle the load. With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam and a maxed-out midsole, this is Brooks’ most cushioned shoe to date. It’s made for comfort, not speed, which is perfect for recovery runs and long, easy sessions when protection matters most. Just don’t expect much snap; this one’s all about soft landings and smooth cruising.

Pros:

• Excellent shock absorption and plush ride 
• High stability and comfort for heavier runners 
• Durable outsole and supportive midfoot structure 

Cons:

• Heavier and less energetic than other trainers 
• Low energy return; not suited to speed work

Alternate picks: ASICS Dynablast 5 – excellent durability and shock absorption.

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet – ASICS Gel-Kayano 33

If you have flat feet or need structure and support, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 is a very smooth and stable ride. ASICS has completely overhauled the stability system, replacing the 4D Guidance System with the new technology that creates a more natural, less intrusive form of guidance that smooths out overpronation without feeling clunky. It also features a new top layer of cushioning, making it the softest Kayano yet. Having tried these recently, I can personally attest to how brilliant they are for long, easy runs. They are super comfy underfoot, provide excellent ankle stability, and have been a lifesaver while recovering from a metatarsal injury.

Pros:

• Softest-ever Kayano with new FF BLAST MAX foam
• More natural stability system
• Premium comfort, great for recovery and long walks/runs

Cons:

• Feels heavy and lacks the energy return for faster paces
• Clunky heel transition for some runners

Alternate picks: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and HOKA Arahi 7

Best Running Shoes for Long Distances – New Balance 1080v15

The New Balance 1080v15 has dropped significant weight for 2026, making it an absolute dream for long-distance cruising. It features a brand-new midsole technology called Infinion, which enhances both cushioning and energy return. It’s noticeably lighter than the v14 (dropping nearly 40 grams), yet it still provides that signature plush, pampered feel that the 1080 series is known for. If you want to lose track of time on your Sunday long run, this is the shoe to lace up.

Pros:

• Significantly lighter than previous versions
• New Infinion midsole offers excellent, long-lasting cushioning
• Plush, comfortable upper

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Soft ride may not appeal to runners who prefer ground feel

Best Racing Shoes for Men – Saucony Endorphin Elite 3

When race day arrives and you need every possible advantage, the Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 is the weapon of choice for 2026. Featuring a 40mm stack of the new incrediRUN foam, it strikes the perfect balance: soft enough to protect your legs over 42.2km, but firm enough to be explosive. The carbon fibre plate generates massive propulsion underfoot without feeling overly aggressive. It’s a premium investment, but one that will almost certainly yield a new PB (if you put in the work, of course).

Pros:

• Explosive energy return from foam and carbon plate
• Highly propulsive geometry
• Surprisingly comfortable for a marathon racing shoe

Cons:

• Pricey for a running shoe ($419.99
• Strict race-day focus; not versatile for daily training

What to Look For in the Best Running Shoes for Men

• Weight – If you’re chasing speed, lighter shoes can help you move quicker and save energy. But they usually come with less cushioning. Heavier shoes might slow you down a little, but they’re comfier for longer runs.
• Cushioning – A good midsole can make all the difference. The more cushioning, the more impact it absorbs, which is especially helpful if you’re pounding the pavement or clocking serious kilometres.
• Support & Drop – Support keeps your stride on track and reduces your risk of injury. Most shoes have a “drop” (how much your heel sits above your toes) between 8–12mm, which works for most runners. Lower drops feel more natural, but they’re harder on your calves if you’re not used to them.
• How You’ll Use Them – Going long? You’ll want comfort and durability. Just starting out? Go for something versatile and easy on the feet. Looking to shave seconds off your 5K? Lightweight and responsive is the way to go.

Road Running Shoes vs Trail Running Shoes for Men

Not all running shoes are built for the same terrain. Here’s how to tell road runners from trail-ready gear:

• Rock plates – Found in trail shoes, these stiff inserts protect your feet from sharp rocks and uneven ground.
• Trail outsoles – Look for chunky, grippy rubber designed to help you stay stable on loose or slippery surfaces.
• Weather-resistant uppers – Some trail shoes have water-resistant fabrics and higher collars to keep out mud, water, and small debris.

Not sure what you’re looking at? If the shoe looks aggressive and rugged, it’s probably built for the trails. Sleek and smooth? Likely a road runner.

How to Find Your Perfect Running Shoe

You’ve nailed down what you’re looking for, and now it’s time to try some on. Whether you’re eyeing a pair of Nikes, ASICS, or Brooks, the right fit is essential. You might end up walking out of the store with a different brand than you thought you’d get, but when it comes to running, a proper fit is more important than the shoe logo. The great news is that most adidas running shoes, ASICS running shoes, Brooks running shoes, and Nike running shoes for men will be able to cater to your needs.

Get a Gait Test

Any good running store will offer this for free. You’ll jump on a treadmill for 20 seconds or so in a neutral shoe, and they’ll analyse how your feet move, spotting any alignment issues or pronation quirks. It’s quick, and it helps make sure you get the support you actually need.

Try Before You Buy

Sounds obvious, but don’t just grab a box and hope for the best. Walk around the store. Ask about return policies. Some shoes feel great at first, but not after 10k. Know your options for returns before you commit.

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