Checkout
×

Top 6 Joy-Inspiring & Comfortable Running Shoes For 2024

By Sportitude

You don’t have to be a sprinter or a marathoner to be a runner. Today, we’re celebrating everyday running heroes and the best fun running shoes of 2024 to help you stay comfortable and consistent in your running plan or training.

By training, we don’t necessarily mean you have a race on the horizon. We’re simply referring to any time you lace up to enjoy the positive physical and mental health benefits of running.

These running shoes help make running accessible to everyone, no matter your ability. They offer a comfortable, joy-inspiring ride at easy-going paces, helping your runs feel effortless and freeing.

Whether you’re a beginner runner, walker or simply prefer runs that inspire joy without exhaustion, these are our top running shoes for you. These high mileage daily trainers aren’t the lightest shoes on the market and they aren’t trying to be speed machines, top podiums or set PBs.

They are both the bread and butter of your shoe rotation, or the one-and-only for runners that prefer a slow running pace exclusively. Their shock-absorbing cushioning helps them disappear beneath you, keeping you motivated and your feet fresh in every stride.  

Jump To Running Shoe Reviews:

  1. Hoka Bondi 8
  2. New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
  3. Asics Gel Nimbus 26
  4. Asics Gel Kayano 31
  5. Brooks Glycerin 21
  6. Brooks Ghost 16

Special Mentions

When setting off on this journey, it wasn’t our intention to focus primarily on max cushioned shoes, with 4 out of our top 6 comfortable running shoes fitting in this category. These running shoes from Hoka, New Balance and Asics feature a stack height that surpasses 30mm. Many max cushioned shoes simply fit the bar of what the best joy-inspiring running shoes should be.

All of the models in our best beginner running shoes for 2024 list are also adaptable to fit the cushioning needs of nurses, retail positions, hospitality workers, warehouse workers, and other occupations that keep you active on your feet. Our equally foot-friendly and recovery-friendly alternatives include top cushioned running shoes from Brooks, that provide comfort with a more traditional silhouette.

These running shoes and brands are regularly recommended by podiatrists, able to provide relief from common running injuries such as plantar fasciitis. Our top 6 running shoes also showcase the sustainability initiatives of each brand in action, with the use of recycled or renewable materials and/or environmentally preferable manufacturing.

Keep in mind that comfort is subjective. We chose the top 6 joy-inspiring & comfortable running shoes for 2024, based on the following criteria:

  • Ideal for walking, jogging and easy-going paces 
  • Well-cushioned or max cushioned for shock-absorbing protection
  • A fun and effortless feel during long runs and recovery runs
  • A worthy update to their predecessors
  • Available in multiple widths to find your ideal fit
  • Positive feedback from the running community
  • New running shoes for 2024 or new colours for 2024

Below, we provide an in-depth review of each running shoe in no particular order, from how they feel on the foot, to the engineering features including the upper, midsole and outsole. We also compare and highlight the differences between them and their predecessors, to help you discover the perfect fit for you. Don't forget to check out our special mentions that are also fan favourites in this category.

The Best Max Cushioned Running Shoes For Beginners, Walking & Everyday Runners

Sparked by Hoka in 2010, the max cushioned category thrived in the decade following and continues to be a popular choice in the running industry today. It almost feels like there’s been a race to which brand can produce the tallest running shoe, but with the increased stack height comes specific benefits, depending on the running experience you seek.

Max cushioned running shoes aren’t necessarily softly cushioned. Yes, they’ll provide enhanced shock absorption, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the feel is plush. There’s a wide spectrum in the max cushioned category, from ultra-soft to surprisingly firm midsole densities.

1. Hoka Bondi 8

Why You'll Love The Hoka Bondi 8

Released in 2022, the Hoka Bondi 8 continues to top the podium in comfort for many runners, walkers, nurses or anyone that spends hours on their feet. The latest model has been running two years strong (or soft to be accurate to its cushioning) - but the Hoka Bondi family itself has provided a consistently feel-good ride for 8 generations. In fact, the Hoka Bondi is Hoka’s best-selling running shoe family.

Although it isn’t a new model to this year, it’s honestly hard to look past the Hoka Bondi 8’s enduring comfort for easy runs and recovery sessions. It’s a timeless design, and with its new 2024 colourways to keep the ride fresh for new Bondi runners and loyal fans alike, we believe it’s a worthy addition to kick off this list.

From the ground up, the Hoka Bondi 8 is a stable neutral running shoe that's crafted for comfort. One reviewer called it “a runner’s dream shoe”, and we’re inclined to agree. If you prefer a lighter, less cushioned and more versatile ride, the Hoka Clifton 9 could be the running shoe for you.

Sustainability

According to Hoka, the Hoka Bondi 8 features the following recycled content in their materials, true to the brand’s suitability initiatives:

  • 100% recycled polyester sockliner top cloth
  • 87% recycled polyester strobel board
  • 50% recycled polyester in the upper mesh
  • 40% recycled polyester eyestay lining

Upper

Compared to the Hoka Bondi 7, the Hoka Bondi 8 offers a sleeker, more pleasing aesthetic while providing out-of-the-box comfort.

By wrapping your feet in a relatively thick mesh upper, Hoka was able to steer away from using overlays. True to its purpose, the soft open mesh upper makes the Hoka Bondi 8 a comfortable fit for turning your legs over at relaxed paces, providing a middle ground of breathability between airier and less perforated running shoes.

This makes the Hoka Bondi 8 ideal for moderate temperatures, however, for particularly warm weather you may prefer a shoe upper constructed from a thinner mesh, like the Hoka Clifton 9 .

The plush padding, which includes a memory foam collar, thick tongue and super-soft Ortholite sockliner, provides a cosy, locked-in feel, allowing your foot and shoe to run in harmony without the need of a runner’s lock lace. It keeps you feeling confident in your stride with a stay-put fit during easy, high mileage runs.

Although style isn’t a first priority for running shoes, with comfort the key decider, many reviewers praise the vibrant colours of the Hoka Bondi 8.

Midsole

The Hoka Bondi 8 is considered running shoe royalty when it comes to comfort and cushioning.

For some runners, the initial feel may be firmer than expected based on how supremely plush these Hoka running shoes look. However, as your run evolves, the cushioning ‘warms up’, and after 3km or so, they provide a happy place of softness. Other runners find that the midsole offers perfect plushness out-of-the-box without a break-in period. At a walking pace, the cushioning tends to feel even softer.

A thick slab of Hoka’s shock-absorbing EVA foam cradles your feet in plush comfort without feeling like they are being swallowed by a pillow. The early-stage Meta-Rocker makes your heel-to-toe transitions feel effortless, for a floating feel as you glide over the pavement.

It doesn’t only feel luxurious in each stride, but this comfort translates to dramatic health benefits for some runners, taking the pressure off your knees, ankles and hips. If you’re wearing a Hoka Bondi 8, you probably enjoy slow running – but you can do so for longer or more regularly with the protection it provides, while warding off fatigue and supporting faster recovery.

It’s bouncier than the Hoka Bondi 7, but some runners may expect more spring in their step based on a visual inspection of the running shoe alone. The ever-reliable comfort however, remains front and centre to the Hoka Bondi 8’s identity.

Outsole

True to the plush comfort, the Hoka Bondi 8 features soft rubber underfoot. With the softness of the rubber in combination with areas of the midsole being left exposed, you may question this running shoe’s durability. However, after two years of runners enjoying this model, we can safely say it’s likely to last around 500km (about 310 miles) of joy-inspiring runs.

Why did Hoka not opt for a full-length outsole? It’s likely due to the need to keep the weight of this shoe down. It’s certainly on the heavier side of daily trainers. However, with the reward of extra weight being consistent, enduring comfort, you won’t feel held back.

The wide base complements the sole flare and chunky midsole which oozes cushioned comfort. This billowed geometry complete with the exaggerated, bevelled heel pairs a smooth ride with stability, for confident strides. As high stacked as this shoe is, you certainly won’t feel like you’re running on stilts.

Fit

Many runners find the upper of the Hoka Bondi 8 to be narrow at the forefoot, even though the base of the running shoe itself is wide and stable. However, this isn’t a problem, because the Hoka Bondi 8 is available in multiple width offerings including standard and wide for women, and standard, wide and extra wide for men. It’s also worth noting that the upper material relaxes after a few kilometres in, providing a less restrictive feel compared to the initial snugness.

Weight

When it comes to weight, it’s the feel of the Hoka Bondi 8 rather than the number on paper that you should consider. The men's model in a US 9 surpasses 300g, while the women's model sits at the 260g (9.2oz) mark in size US 7. However, when you flow into a smooth, easy-going running rhythm, the Hoka Bondi 8 melts away as you glide through your sessions and doesn’t feel cumbersome.

Specifications

  • Support: Neutral
  • Offset / Drop: 4mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 33mm
  • Forefoot Height: 29mm
  • Weight: 304g / 10.7oz (US 9)
  • Widths: D (standard), 2E (wide), 4E (extra wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 31mm
  • Forefoot Height: 27mm
  • Weight: 260g / 9.2oz (US 7)
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)

2. New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5

Why You'll Love The New Balance More v5

Flying fresh off the shelves, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 inspires the question, how can a running shoe have more softness, more stability and more height. Surely there’s a limit?

If there is, New Balance certainly hasn’t hit that wall yet.

The max cushioned category is undoubtedly booming with what appears to be every leading brand throwing their version into the party from the Brooks Ghost Max to the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3.

What sets the New Balance More v5 apart from the pack is that true to its monolithic appearance, it’s seriously soft. No matter whether you want to compare it to clouds or feathers, it sets the bar (and stack height) high for runners seeking that instant, ultra-forgiving compression.

Alike with the Hoka Bondi 8, this is a running shoe that will be seen on the feet of not only walkers and runners, but anyone that spends hours on their feet, from the hospitality to the healthcare industry. Fans of the New Balance More v5 don’t only enjoy this buttery-soft ride, but are truly passionate about it.

Sustainability

The New Balance Fresh Foam X midsole contains about 3% bio-based content, putting renewable resources into action to lighten your carbon footprint, while providing max cushioned comfort.

Upper

Even when talking about the seam-free upper, it’s hard not to talk about the midsole of this running shoe. Every feature of the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 revolves around the mammoth cushioning of the shoe – providing support and stability to complement the midsole that’s oozing with plush cushioning.

The thick engineered mesh upper provides a foot-hugging fit from heel-to-toe, creating a secure, breathable feel for a worry-free run. When it comes to extremely hot weather, it may not be your go-to running shoe, but overall it offers a hot spot and blister-free ride. Up front, the padded tongue stays honest to the protective comfort underneath, and provides a plush, thick barrier against lace pressure. The tongue has been updated to be gusseted to lock you in securely.

At the back, the heel counter provides a reliable lockdown and irritation-free fit, so there will be no slipping and sliding in this running shoe. Heel slippage can be a common problem for max stacked shoes – but not for the New Balance Fresh Foam More v5.

Directly out-of-the-box, the upper feels premium and luxurious – a running shoe your feet will love to live in. It lacks a heel tab, but it’s easy to look past this with the consistent comfort the upper provides from your first step-in. 

Midsole

Rightfully so, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 embraces the philosophy that more is MORE. In saying that, responsiveness isn’t the goal here. However, many runners have found it to be fun and bouncy – like marshmallows in the way the foam compresses and rebounds.

The New Balance More v5 is about comfort first and foremost. It feels good to run in, catering to runners that often feel distracting niggles, and helping to alleviate that soreness. To achieve that, New Balance have provided a slab of pillow-plush Fresh Foam X cushioning underfoot, bolstering the shock absorption in every stride. It’s almost like your feet are in a protective, impenetrable bubble.

The main difference between the New Balance Fresh Foam More v4 and New Balance More v5 is that the More v5 features Fresh Foam X technology that’s an incredible 10mm thicker, with a total stack height of 44mm. Not that it is by any means a racing shoe - they have the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 for that - but it’s interesting to note this stack height exceeds the legal limits of road running events (40mm). The New Balance More v5 won’t be running marathons, at least not officially. 

This leans into its intended purpose as an easy day, long run, recovery session shoe and daily trainer. There is the occasional runner that feels the New Balance More v4 is softer, but for the vast majority of the running community, the More v5 is at the pinnacle of softness. Some runners say it feels like New Balance injected the ultra-soft New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 foam into the firmer More v4.

Needless to say, the New Balance More v5 isn’t for someone looking for increased ground feedback. These runners would be better suited to the comparatively reduced yet plush cushioning of the New Balance 880.

The New Balance More v5 is for someone that loves a squishy feel that turns the pavement into clouds beneath your feet. The sole flare and high sidewalls of the running shoe pairs cushioning with confidence-inspiring support, so you never feel like you’re teetering awkwardly on a mountain of foam.

The rocker geometry, which includes a gradual forefoot rocker and rounded heel bevel, helps your runs feel effortless as you coast from heel-to-toe, rolling into your next stride. It’s a favourite for heel strikers, while providing a smooth turnover when you want to shift the pace fractionally up a gear from your easy pace, which the shoe excels at. It also offers a more lively feel compared to the New Balance More v4. Similarly to its tempo running and race day super trainer alternative, the New Balance SuperComp Trainer, this energy-saving design means you’ll feel less fatigued during long runs.

The max stack height has been paired with a low drop of 4mm, providing a gentle gradient from heel-to-toe. This helps to take the strain off your hips and knees compared to running shoes with higher heel-to-toe drops, making it a potential go-to for runners susceptible to running injuries in these targeted zones.

Outsole

To complement the cloud-high cushioning, the outsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 has been engineered for stability. Its generous width is a major factor towards its success, and New Balance have achieved the cushioning to stability ratio seamlessly. New Balance have made max cushioned feel natural, creating a stable neutral experience from the ground up. This inherent stability helps relieve any concerns regarding rolling an ankle on this super high, super soft shoe – leaving only enjoyment.

The broad platform surpasses the width of the New Balance More v4, providing more surface area to connect with the ground. The traction of the outsole inspires sure-footed confidence, even when cornering. Two large zones of rubber cover the forefoot and rearfoot, reinforcing the areas that may fall under the highest impact forces, while the midsole remains exposed. This means you can flow into kilometre after kilometre of feel-good runs.

Fit

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 provides a bucket seat fit that hugs your feet to the stable platform.

Some runners have found the New Balance More v5 to be true to size, and the toe box to be desirably spacious, providing wriggle room without compromise to the snug feel. However, other runners have found it to be too snug, running half a size small. Even though this running shoe has enough depth for an orthotic-friendly fit, you may be among those that seek more volume in the forefoot.

Simply by bumping up your size selection by half a size, you may discover your ideal fit. Alongside the standard sizes, it's also available in wider widths including D wide for women, 2E wide for men and 4E extra wide for men, allowing you to find a personalised fit if you have a broader foot type.

Weight

Just because the softness is comparable to clouds or feathers, doesn’t mean the New Balance Fresh Foam More v5 is equivalently light. The weight of the New Balance More v5 on paper is true to its size, and fractionally heavier than its predecessor to pack in more cushioning.

However, on-the-run the trade off in lightness is supreme comfort, and when compared to it’s competitors in the max cushioned category like the Brooks Ghost Max, Hoka Bondi 8 and Saucony Triumph 22, it doesn’t stand out as being particularly heavy.

If you’re a New Balance runner, the New Balance 1080v13 delivers a lighter, more versatile ride with Fresh Foam X that offers less density. However, when you flow into a rhythm with the New Balance More v5 on your feet, it’s a forgettable shoe in the best kind of way – keeping you free of distractions, while the memory of its pure comfort persists beyond the pavement and into your recovery.

Specifications

  • Support: Neutral
  • Offset / Drop: 4mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 44mm
  • Forefoot Height: 40mm
  • Weight: 312g / 11oz
  • Width: D (standard), 2E (wide) and 4E (extra wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 44mm
  • Forefoot Height: 40mm
  • Weight: 244g / 8.6oz
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)

3. Asics Gel Nimbus 26

Why You'll Love The Asics Gel Nimbus 26

The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is a neutral running shoe that crosses running abilities – seamlessly transitioning from a go-to shoe for beginner runners, to a recovery or easy run shoe for intermediate to advanced runners. It is a running shoe that can fit into your shoe rotation as your fitness develops, or a favourite for everyday running heroes that enjoy coasting slowly and steadily over the road.

Although it won't be seen at the starting line, it can slide into your training for race day, for everything from your 5K running plan to half marathon training. It can help you clock up your weekly kilometres and build your endurance, keeping in mind where it lacks in speed and snappiness, it gains in comfort.

Subtle changes from the Asics Gel Nimbus 25 to the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 have created small yet runner-approved improvements. It has been celebrated as one of the comfiest Asics running shoes for neutral foot types with its blend of softness and stability, and smooth rolling motion from heel-to-toe. 

When we say stability, we aren’t referring to overpronation management that guides your stride like the Asics Gel Kayano 31, since the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is free of additional support components.

We’re referring to the feel-good stability that is woven into the geometry of this max stacked platform, like its wide footprint that keeps neutral runners confident as you transition through your gait cycle. If you're a walker or spend hours on their feet, you'll equally enjoy this ride.

Compared to the Asics NovaBlast 4 that shares its FlyeFoam Blast Plus Eco cushioning, the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is less versatile but excels at providing cushioned comfort at lower gears. The Asics NovaBlast 4 provides trampoline-like responsiveness, whereas the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 provides cloud-like softness.

The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is a high mileage daily trainer that makes it feel like you can run forever. 

Sustainability

Eco-conscious runners happily gravitate to the Asics Gel Nimbus 26. By putting recycled and renewable resources into action, Asics is helping lessen your carbon footprint on the environment without compromising the run-ready comfort of this high mileage running shoe.

According to Asics:

  • The carbon footprint of the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is 25% less than the average in the industry
  • A minimum of 75% of the main upper content is made with recycled materials
  • The sockliner dyeing process preserves about 33% more water and reduces carbon emissions by about 45% when weighed up against standard dyeing methods
  • FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco cushioning is crafted from approximately 20% bio-based materials

Upper

The form-fitting engineered knit upper provides a smooth balance of structure and stretch, hugging your foot and ankle in plush comfort. Next to the midsole, it is one of the key features of this shoe runners love to talk about. Hot spots and irritation are history with the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 on your feet, and the lacing system has been tweaked for a more secure fit.

The upper has been refined to optimise comfort, with the Asics NovaBlast 4 offering a more tapered, narrow toe box, while the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 offers a roomier fit.

The high breathability exceeds that of the Asics Gel Nimbus 25, providing a distraction-free run, with larger perforations on the toe box and tongue. This has soothed concerns about the upper encouraging a warm climate in the shoe, as was experienced by Asics Gel Nimbus 25 runners. The breathability in the new model is impressive, particularly seeing as it’s a knit material. However, it’s important to note the knit design is relatively thick and cosy compared to the engineered mesh of some of its competitors, meaning it may not be your first choice if the temperature climbs severely.

The soft, semi-gusseted knit tongue supports the premium feel, and compared to the Asics NovaBlast 4, the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 has additional padding to the tongue. However, it doesn’t feel overly thick and is a more minimalist tongue than other running shoes in the max cushioned category.

The interior padding of the knit heel collar follows suit, for a heel lockdown that’s all plushness and no irritation, ensuring there is no rubbing to your Achilles. The trade-off is that during rainy runs, this padding can soak up fluids, so it’s really a running shoe that thrives on clearer days.

If you’re seeking the security of a runner's lock lace, there is an extra eyelet on the first row to really lock in the fit, although due to the plushness of the upper, it’s unlikely that heel slippage will be a problem. A chunky and stretchy heel pull tab makes pulling the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 on feel effortless.

Midsole

The Asics Gel Nimbus 26’s marriage of soft and stable shines in the midsole. Alike with the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5, you won’t see this towering running shoe competing in any road races, as its stack height at 41mm surpasses the 40mm legal limit. Certainly not every shoe in your shoe rotation needs to be race-ready, and this joy-inspiring ride is targeted more to simply having fun in your slower sessions. The sidewalls of the running shoe help maintain stability on this slab of cushioning.

Even though it is soft, it isn’t marshmallow-soft. Next to the lighter New Balance 1080v13, the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 offers a firmer, more energised feel, and when weighed up against the Asics Gel Nimbus 25, it’s also more responsive and easier to pick up the pace.

However, it lacks the ‘pop’ or ‘snap’ of a speed-ready shoe like the Asics NovaBlast 4. The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is happiest in heart rate training zone 2 – where you’re running at a comfortable, conversational pace. The Saucony Triumph may offer more bounce, but the comfort of the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 undoubtedly puts a spring in your step as the midsole compresses underfoot.

Two major elements are at play in this forgiving, recovery-friendly cushioning. Firstly, the FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco foam creates airbag-like protection beneath your feet, offering reliable shock absorption during repetitive impacts on the pavement.

Secondly, PureGel is strategically placed in the rearfoot for lightweight protection in this high-stress zone. First launched in 1986, Gel technology was game-changing in the running world for it’s shock-absorbing benefits, and the evolution of this tech continues to support the modern runner in the pursuit of comfort. According to Asics, the new PureGel is lighter and softer compared to their standard Gel technology.

This certainly feels accurate when taking the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 to the pavement. Asics, alongside other key running brands, are consistently pursuing ways to make their signature foams softer and lighter, and they’ve certainly achieved that here. Even though the overall weight of the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is by no means light, this PureGel supports cloud-like landings and smooth transitions, making it feel like you're running lighter and smoother whether on flat, consistent road or taking your fitness to paved hills.

Outsole

The gentle rocker geometry takes the smooth ride of the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 further, and with its strategically placed design it feels effortless as you release from toe-off. The heel bevel and toe spring work in harmony to create this natural flow into your next stride, although some runners have reported feeling a slapping sensation from the outsole. Stress is minimised at the forefoot and the stability is just-right from heel-to-toe.

A combination of sole flare and a broad base stabilise the max stacked midsole for a worry-free yet ultra-forgiving run, offering increased surface area compared to the Asics Gel Nimbus 25. The outsole includes strategically placed AHARPLUS and Hybrid ASICSGRIP rubber.

AHARPLUS rubber is strategically placed at the rearfoot for a heel striker-friendly ride that extends the lifespan of your running shoes. Even if you’re not inherently a heel striker, this rubber gives you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be protected during any shifts in your running form as you fatigue.

The modified traction pattern boosts durability and grip, especially on slick surfaces compared to the Asics Gel Nimbus 25. Some runners have also given it a whirl on ‘runnable’ off-road conditions without any issues, although we recommend preserving them for what they do best, road running, and investing in a separate pair of trail running shoes to improve their longevity.

The downside to increased durability is it adds fractionally to the weight of the running shoe. The benefit is you don’t have to tip-toe like you’re running on eggshells – you can contact the ground confidently, even during tight turns. Equally significant, the hard-wearing rubber underfoot ensures the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 has a longer than average life expectancy compared to many other daily trainers.

Fit

Although some runners feel it runs narrow compared to others in this category, many feel the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 runs true to size with a traditional fit. It is available in multiple width offerings to accommodate standard to extra wide fits in the men’s model, and standard to wide widths in the women’s model.

If you believe you have voluminous feet or prefer a more spacious fit, consider a wide or extra wide width. Other runners have had success selecting half a size up from their standard size, accommodating the natural swelling of your forefoot during longer runs.

Weight

Heavy on paper, lightweight on the run. Even in your hands, the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 feels lighter than expected considering its soft and satisfying slab of cushioning. It's heavier than the Asics Gel Nimbus 25, but with the performance and durability gains you get from this latest iteration, the slightly increased weight is forgettable. On the other hand, the pleasant feel cradling your feet remains an ever-present companion on your running journey.

Specifications

  • Support: Neutral
  • Offset / Drop: 8mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 41.5mm
  • Forefoot Height: 33.5mm
  • Weight: 300g / 10.6oz (US 9)
  • Width: D (standard), 2E (wide) and 4E (extra wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 40.5mm
  • Forefoot Height: 32.5mm
  • Weight: 263g / 9.3oz (US 7.5)
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)

4. Asics Gel Kayano 31

Why You'll Love The Asics Gel Kayano 31

Stability running shoes that were clunky, cumbersome and stiff are history, with the iconic Asics Gel Kayano 31 having paved the way for a smooth and soft ride for over 30 years.

Honest to the brand, the Asics Gel Kayano 31 continues the legacy of providing a reliably comfortable ride for devoted Asics Gel Kayano wearers, while integrating modern innovations to invite new Asics runners to try and buy. It’s a natural fit for running in zone 2 heart rate training zone, being your slow running pace.

Subtle improvements from one generation to the next make this an Asics running shoe that Kayano fans come back to year in and year out. It provides a softer experience without compromise to the philosophy of this ride as Asics’ flagship stability shoe, capable of conquering the kilometres. Since the stability has been achieved in an unobtrusive way, kicking in only when you need it, many neutral runners also have had success finding their running joy in the Asics Gel Kayano 31.

Kayano, which is translated to "kaizen” in Japanese, means “continuous improvement”, and the Asics Gel Kayano 31 lives up to this name. Asics are proud of their data-driven, runner-approved shoes, that combine customer feedback with advances in shoe technology to bring you the latest and greatest in footwear.

Often the improvements are subtle, so the overhaul in the midsole in the last generation as we celebrated its 30th birthday, came as a bit of a shock to loyal Asics Gel Kayano fans. However, the response from runners was overwhelmingly positive. Those changes continue running strong in this newest generation, combined with some happy and discreet modifications.

Sustainability

The FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco foam of the Asics Gel Kayano 31 isn’t only plush, but has a 20% bio-based content. It’s a fantastic option to run lighter on the planet and softer on your feet. According to Asics, the carbon footprint of the Asics Gel Kayano 31 is 27% less than the industry average.

Upper

It’s a simple detail, but runners love a pull tab. Asics have included a pull tab in the Asics Gel Kayano 31 to make it that little bit easier and faster to enter the running shoe. A fresh knit collar hugs comfortably to your ankle for step-in comfort.

Say goodbye to hot feet. The engineered mesh upper offers high breathability, so much so that this could be a potential favourite for your summer runs. However, the mesh feels plush, wrapping your feet in a cosy, premium feel. Despite the high breathability, which often can be a trade off for durability, that isn't the case here. Asics’ ingenuity, experience and eye for detail ensures the best of both worlds.

The toe box perforations in particular invite cool air in and allow heat and humidity to escape, whereas the midfoot and rearfoot offer increased support. This balance of breathability and support make the Asics Gel Kayano 31 ideal for long runs.

Midsole

The Asics Gel Kayano 31 midsole stays relatively true to the overhaul it experienced in the Asics Gel Kayano 30 – giving Asics’ evolving technologies a chance to shine on one of their best-selling shoe families.

The FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco cushioning and PureGel formula have been transferred over from the previous generation, making it consistently among the most luxuriously soft shoes in the stability category. Even though these technologies are the same in name, many runners say the feel is softer compared to the previous generation.

PureGel is strategically placed in the high-stress zone of the heel for that feel-good protection you need when heel striking. Unlike some running shoes in the max cushioned category, it doesn’t feel like you’re floating above the world – you can get that cloud-like comfort while feeling more connected to the ground.

Cradling your feet in the shock-absorbing cushioning and supporting them with the 4D Guidance System, it’s a winning combination for overpronators seeking support without feeling like a traditional stability shoe. This not only helps guide overpronators onto their most efficient motion path, but assists with providing stabilisation when fatigue kicks in during marathon or endurance efforts, when your running form can suffer as a result.

With the 4D Guidance System, Asics have steered away from traditional medial post systems that control overpronation using a dense foam wedge strategically placed on the inner side (big-toe side) of the midsole. The 4D Guidance System provides a more intuitive and contemporary method of achieving stability by working in harmony with the body, rather than restricting it.

It takes the form of a resilient and responsive foam pod beneath your arch on the medial side that helps align your gait and propel you forward with a smooth feel. The result is that it naturally and gently ‘springs back’ your foot into a neutral stride when overpronation takes place.

The channel beneath the heel has a subtle gradient as it runs from the medial to the lateral side. This makes the lateral side of the midsole more accommodating when it comes to providing compression, whereas the medial side is more resistant to compression. The result is your foot is naturally guided to the lateral side, helping compensate for or to reduce the rate of overpronation.

Asics call it “adaptive stability” and the midsole geometry of the shoe itself is engineered with this goal in mind, along with an angled heel and 10mm heel-to-toe drop. This heel drop is more traditional but generous when you weigh it up with the 4mm-5mm drop of Hoka running shoes, with both options having their unique benefits.

Outsole

Asics have listened to your feedback and given the outsole a longer life and improved flexibility. Updated rubber provides reliable traction for long distances and regular sessions. Complete with a new toe cap, it feels more grippy underfoot. Although the Asics Gel Kayano 31 is in its element at easy-going and marathon paces, it doesn’t shy away from a challenge with satisfying traction for hill repeats when you’re craving an incline.

The rubber of the Hybrid ASICSGRIP outsole is strategically placed to support overpronators, reinforcing predominantly the medial side of the running shoe, whereas rubber is used more sparsely in the lateral side to save weight. If you’re an overpronator and you turn your pre-loved running shoes upside-down, you’ll notice the wear is targeted to the medial side of the shoe under the heel, a high-stress zone for your foot type.

Durability and flexibility are often conflicting characteristics in running shoes. Hybrid ASICSGRIP refers to the fact that the outsole includes a combination of two different rubber compounds – one that increases durability in high-impact areas, whereas the other offers more flexibility where less protection is required.

The rounded heel allows for smooth transitions for walkers and easy paced running as you transition from heel-to-toe. Some runners have reported the stability and even weight distribution has helped them reduce their foot problems, providing relief from plantar fasciitis and corns respectively.

Fit

The Asics Gel Kayano 31 fits true to size, with the length and width 'normal' in the best way possible - meaning you shouldn't run into any unexpected surprises when purchasing your usual size.

The forefoot offers a voluminous enough fit to allow your toes to wriggle comfortably in terms of the height without being bulky, the toe box tapers gradually and the midfoot offers a regular to fractionally wide fit for some foot types.

It is easy to see that Asics is confident in their flagship stability running shoe, and are making it as accessible and accommodating as they can to a variety of foot types. In the men's model it's available in D standard, 2E wide and 4E extra wide widths. In the women's model it's available in B standard and D wide widths.

Weight

Asics are consistently engineering lighter and softer foams to shave off non-essential weight. Currently the Asics Gel Kayano 31 sits at 266g (9.3oz) in the women's model and 305g (10.7oz) in the men’s model. Cracking the sub-300 gram mark for men in the next evolution of the Asics Gel Kayano could be a worthy goal for Asics.

Specifications

  • Support: Stability
  • Offset / Drop: 10mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 40mm
  • Forefoot Height: 30mm
  • Weight: 305g / 10.7oz
  • Width: D (standard), 2E (wide), 4E (extra wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 39mm
  • Forefoot Height: 29mm
  • Weight: 266g / 9.3oz
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)


Best Cushioned Running Shoes For Beginners, Walking & Everyday Runners

The best cushioned running shoes (not to be confused with max cushioned) for the purpose of this article, refers only to those that feature a stack height of under 30mm. However, you may notice different brands have varying definitions of what is a max cushioned running shoe.

Engineering running shoes for about half a century (since the 1970s), the majority of Brooks shoes fit into this 'just-right' cushioned category. The Brooks Ghost Max is the exception as this leading running shoe brand dips their toes into the world of max stacked designs.

Brooks running shoes have a reputation for being reliable and consistent, providing a worry-free ride to transform hard road surfaces into your personal runway. They combine traditional running shoe silhouettes, with advancements in running shoe technology to provide a more conventional ride in lighter and potentially softer packages.

Brooks have fine-tuned their signature midsole technology Flyte Foam, to achieve specific purposes and sensations in their running shoes. Weighing up the softer Brooks Glycerin 21 vs the balanced Brooks Ghost 16, provides insight on how Brooks have topped the podium in this ever-popular category.

5. Brooks Glycerin 21

Why You’ll Love The Brooks Glycerin 21

Technically released at the end of 2023 in Australia and welcoming new colourways in 2024, the Brooks Glycerin 21 truly lives up to Brooks slogan of “run happy”. The Brooks Glycerin 21 are an amazing option for beginner runners or anyone seeking a daily trainer or mileage shoe that’s kind to your feet at slower paces, while providing the protection and durability to flow into your element during longer runs as your fitness improves.

If you enjoy a relaxed pace, whether walking or slow running, the Brooks Glycerin 21 are a reliable, super soft option. It shines as an easy run shoe, with enough responsiveness to shift the pace up a gear when you want to dial up the challenge or enjoy a short tempo session. It’s also a favourite for runners that experience plantar fasciitis or runners susceptible to injury seeking generous cushioning to take the load off their feet.

The Brooks Glycerin 21 is designed for neutral runners and although it has a wide platform for intuitive stability, it’s free of additional support characteristics. If you’re an overpronator and the philosophy behind it sounds like a perfect fit for you, check out its family member, the Brooks Glycerin 21 GTS (Go-To Stability) with GuideRails for support that feels effortless and natural. 

Sustainability

The Brooks Glycerin 21 meets the criteria of eco-conscious, everyday athletes. According to Brooks, the upper is crafted from 59.7% recycled materials, diverting the equivalent of 4.1 plastic bottles out of landfill and giving them a new life as your go-to running shoes.

Upper

The Brooks Glycerin 21 hug your feet in immediate step-in comfort. The engineered warp knit upper is crafted from FlyKnit technology, providing a balance of stretch and structure for a dialled in feel. It feels sleeker and more foot-conforming compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20 and unlike the Brooks Ghost 16, it’s free of overlays on the sides for a more seamless aesthetic.

The toe box provides an accommodating, more voluminous fit, allowing your forefoot to splay and swell naturally, a key component to consider during long runs. In terms of breathability, the knit upper perhaps is fractionally less breathable than its predecessor, but more breathable than the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 – a max cushioned running shoe that’s softer and heavier than the Brooks Glycerin 21.

Brooks have been known to engineer among the comfiest uppers in the running shoe market – and the Brooks Glycerin 21 certainly continues this legacy with soft, just-right padding at the heel collar, creating a fractionally shorter fit compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20.

Midsole

The Brooks Glycerin 21 stays honest to the brand and consistent to the silhouette of Brooks running shoes. It features a more traditional feel compared to high stacked offerings like the max cushioned Hoka Bondi 8, or even Hoka's competitor, the Brooks Ghost Max.

Even so, Brooks have boosted the stack height compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20 by 2mm – packing in more nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole to promote cloud-soft shock absorption. DNA Loft v3 is Brooks’ lightweight and soft yet resilient foam for adaptive cushioning.

The Brooks Glycerin 21 features a lower density twist on DNA Loft v3 compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20, providing protective yet stable compression for a softer feel. It creates a foot-cradling sensation to glide over the pavement during long runs in luxurious comfort, without feeling like you’re sinking into a mashmallow-soft midsole and having to adjust your stride to compensate.

The 10mm drop helps shift impact stresses away from your calf muscles as the running shoe rolls softly from foot strike, midstance to toe-off compared to the firmer feel of its cousin, the Brooks Ghost 16 below.

Outsole

The broad outsole platform of the Brooks Glycerin 21 provides natural, confidence-inspiring stability to complement the soft cushioning, ensuring heel-to-transitions feel effortless and catering smoothly to steady paces. Unlike cross training shoes, the outsole is engineered purely for the linear, forward motion of walking and running.

It’s a weight-saving design, with Brooks shedding non-essential rubber beneath the midfoot, and reserving it for areas of higher impact like the rearfoot. The durability however hasn’t been compromised, with the RoadTack rubber ensuring its longevity will likely reach or exceed close to 650km (about 400 miles).

Fit

Even runners that are used to the foot-shaped fit of barefoot shoes, have found the Brooks Glycerin 21 similarly accommodating, free of rubbing and irritation. It ensures your feet feel secure, without feeling restricted. However, some runners find the fit is narrower at the midfoot compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20.

To help you find your perfect fit, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is available in multiple widths - B standard and D wide in the women's model, and D standard and 2E wide in the men's model.

Weight

Running well under the 300g mark, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is on the radar for runners seeking cushioned comfort in a lighter package compared to the heavier max cushioned running shoes. It does weigh more than the Brooks Ghost 16 below, but that can be attributed to the fact that it packs in more cushioning for that luxurious softness.

Specifications

  • Support: Neutral
  • Offset / Drop: 10mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 28mm
  • Forefoot Height: 18mm
  • Weight: 283g / 10oz (US 9)
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 28mm
  • Forefoot Height: 18mm
  • Weight: 258g / 9.1oz (US 7)
  • Width: B (standard), D (wide)

6. Brooks Ghost 16

Why You’ll Love The Brooks Ghost 16

Brooks calls the podiatrist and runner-approved Brooks Ghost 16 “Your daily joyride” for a reason. There is no doubt that it’s at the heart of what the easy run and daily training categories represents as one of Brooks best-selling running shoes. If you’re a loyal Brooks runner and a neutral foot type, it’s often a toss up between the Brooks Ghost and Brooks Glycerin – hence, they both have earned their place on the top joy-inspiring, beginner-friendly and walker-friendly running shoe list for 2024.

To simplify the choice – if you want soft, go Glycerine, if you want firm, go Ghost. This firmness makes the Brooks Ghost a more versatile running companion, with a balanced feel that’s more responsive while providing protection for long, easy runs.

It provides shock-absorbing cushioning, without the need of having mountains of foam underfoot like the max cushioned category. Packing consistent comfort in a more traditional silhouette, the Brooks Ghost proves balance can be equally effective as max when it comes to an energising and effortless running experience.

Unlike max stacked styles or super trainers, there isn’t any one feature that catches the eye – but the combination of every engineering component working in unison feels just-right on the foot, so much so that it’s been considered as the 'goldilocks' of running shoes. It may not give you the adrenaline-rush of speed-driven running shoes, but it will be your ever-reliable companion to coast over the kilometres.

Sustainability

The Brooks Ghost 16 is a carbon neutral shoe. Brooks prioritises the use of recycled materials and more planet-friendly dyeing methods, to take positive steps towards their goal of being entirely carbon neutral by 2040.

They hold themselves accountable to their carbon footprint while actively lowering it. In the case of the Brooks Ghost 16, they balance out or compensate for the carbon emission produced by the manufacture of the shoe by purchasing carbon credits for projects that are making a positive difference to climate change. 

According to Brooks:

  • The upper contains 67.3% recycled materials
  • 4.3 plastic bottles are given a new life as your go-to running shoes, helping to keep plastic waste out of landfill

Upper

From heel-to-toe, the Brooks Ghost 16 hugs your feet in instant step-in comfort. The flexible engineered mesh upper is airier and softer than the Brooks Ghost 15, creating a plush, seamless feel and foot-conforming fit.

The Brooks Ghost 16 doesn't have the most breathable upper in the market, but they certainly are durable and don’t feel stuffy or restrictive, offering a happy middle ground for running in most temperatures. They offer a roomy toe box, irritation-free fit, trustworthy support and secure hold on your foot combined with the lacing system that features an additional eyelet.

The padding in both the tongue and heel counter provide a supportive, stay-put fit so you can flow into a joyful running rhythm free of distractions, and there’s no heel slippage here. Some runners may find this padding on the snug side, whereas others may love the cosy feel it provides. The heel collar is sturdy yet lower cut than some alternatives, helping save your ankle from friction.

What the upper lacks in a pull tab and gusseted tongue, it gains in thick, easy-to-tie laces for a satisfying lockdown.

Midsole

For a silky smooth, effortless ride, the Brooks Ghost 16 midsole is an exceptional choice and has consistently made its mark as a stable neutral shoe. Fun and bouncy are popular words to describe the sensation underfoot, with the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam the star of the show. If that sounds similar, yes, it’s the same midsole technology as in the Brooks Glycerin 21. So, what differentiates one shoe from the other?

You get less DNA Loft v3 foam in the Brooks Ghost 16 with its lower stack height. However, depending on the feel you’re looking for, less can be more. The result is a firmer, more balanced feel that’s still reliably protective and shock-absorbing, but less soft or squishy.

However, this doesn’t compromise on the ability of the Brooks Ghost 16 to help your joints and muscles stay fresh while warding off fatigue, making it a favourite choice for recovery sessions from walking to running. This take on the DNA Loft v3 foam adds up to a more agile, responsive feel compared to the Brooks Glycerin 21. It delivers just-right springiness and a stable feel that ensures you don’t have to fight a layer of quicksand-like cushioning to propel forward, giving your knees a break.

The DNA Loft v3 foam also provides a more energising feel on toe-off when compared to the DNA Loft v2 of the Brooks Ghost 15. The midsole is free of bells and whistles like rocker profiles and carbon plates, with Brooks obviously confident in the DNA Loft v3 foam itself to provide a run-ready ride. True to its name, the Brooks Ghost vanishes beneath your feet, leaving pure comfort.

The Brooks Ghost 16 sticks with a traditional 12mm heel-to-toe drop, which is on the upper end for contemporary running shoes, whereas the Brooks Glycerin 21 sits at a 10mm drop, fractionally lower.

With a higher heel drop compared to many of its competitors, the Brooks Ghost 16 caters to heel strikers, enabling Brooks to pack in more cushioning at this high-impact zone. It also helps take the stress off your lower legs, helping alleviate pain of the Achilles, which again supports it’s identity as an easy run to recovery run shoe. With a smooth transition from heel-to-toe, the Brooks Ghost is also a walking-friendly running shoe.

Outsole

The Brooks Ghost 16 outsole surpasses all the criteria of what a good running shoe outsole should be. It shares the Brooks Glycerin 21’s RoadTack outsole for durability and traction. The platform offers a wide footprint, meaning it provides a stable feel for coasting over the pavement for long runs and at an easy-going pace. The fact that it isn’t on a max stacked platform also contributes to its stable feel.

It’s an improvement in grip compared to the Brooks Ghost 15 and offers versatility for confident strides on a variety of surfaces, including on slick, wet roads. The rubber itself is soft yet thick and durable. Although we wouldn’t personally recommend taking it to the trail to preserve it for what it does best – running on roads – many runners have said the Brooks Ghost 16 is also a winner on light trails.

Heel strikers can expect to get around or over 650km (about 400 miles) out of this running shoe with its targeted durability, whereas forefoot runners will find it runs shy of this mark due to its less protected forefoot when it comes to cushioning.

Fit

Alike with the cushioning, the fit of the Brooks Ghost 16 feels just-right for most runners.

Brooks running shoes don’t tend to run too narrow or too short, and remain fairly consistent to the fit of Asics and Hoka running shoes, making it easy to transition between these top brands. Even though the toe box is comfortably roomy, some runners have found the Brooks Ghost 16 to be too narrow at the midfoot. Then again, this targeted snug fit can be a benefit, ensuring a stay-put feel without sliding in the shoe.

Any concerns regarding the Brooks Ghost 16 running narrow is solved by the fact that they are available in multiple widths, including standard widths, a narrow width in the women's model and wide widths for both men and women.

Weight

At 241g (8.5oz) in the women's model and 270g (9.5oz) in the men's model, the Brooks Ghost 16 lets you enjoy relaxed, easy-going runs with a lightweight ride. Even so, it isn’t intended for PB-friendly performance or tempo runs, it’s intended as a reliable and cushioned daily trainer to glide over the pavement.

Specifications

  • Support: Neutral
  • Offset / Drop: 12mm

Men

  • Heel Height: 28mm
  • Forefoot Height: 16mm
  • Weight: 270g / 9.5oz
  • Width: D (standard), 2E (wide), 4E (extra wide)

Women

  • Heel Height: 28mm
  • Forefoot Height: 16mm
  • Weight: 241g / 8.5oz
  • Width: 2A (narrow), B (standard), D (wide)

Special Mentions

Hoka Clifton 9

Honestly, it was a battle to determine whether the Hoka Clifton 9 or Hoka Bondi 8 was a better fit for our top 6 joy-inspiring and comfortable running shoes list.

Both have earned their place in the max stacked cushioned category. Both feature Hoka's CMEVA foam and feature a rocker geometry that alleviates strain on your calf muscles. However, the soft and walker-friendly cushioning of the Hoka Bondi 8 tipped the scales in that direction. Alongside its protective feel, its durability makes the Hoka Bondi 8 a go-to for gliding over longer distances.

The Hoka Clifton 9 offers new colours in this running shoe family for 2024. It is lighter, sleeker and has a more close-to-ground feel than the Hoka Bondi 8, with a lower stack height. This makes the Hoka Clifton 9 more versatile and it feels more energetic for runners that are seeking to pick up the pace.

In terms of the fit, the Hoka Bondi 8 runs wider and is fractionally more stable than the Hoka Clifton 9, whereas the Hoka Clifton 9 may be preferred by narrower foot types. In saying that, if you have a wider foot that shouldn't be an obstacle to choosing the Hoka Clifton 9, with it being available in both standard and wide widths for the men's and women's models.

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Suitable for both walking and slow and steady running, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is a direct competitor to the Hoka Bondi 8 and Asics Gel Nimbus 26. There's no specific reason why one is better over the other, it's really down to your personal preference.

The Brooks Ghost Max 2 leans towards the more responsive side of max cushioned running shoes, making it more versatile, whereas the Hoka Bondi 8 and Asics Gel Nimbus 26 promise a softer experience.

The sensation underfoot is plusher and the fit is roomier in the Brooks Ghost Max compared to the Brooks Ghost 16, which is targeted to runners that prefer a firmer feel and lighter weight.

They both feature nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, the softest foam from Brooks, but the Brooks Ghost Max's supreme stack of foam may tempt some runners to have a taste of the max cushioned category.

Although taller, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is on a more level platform than the Brooks Ghost 16, featuring a 6mm heel-to-toe drop that minimises strain to the knees and hips, compared to the Brooks Ghost 16's more traditional 12mm drop that alleviates pain to the Achilles, ankle and shin.

The Brooks Ghost 16's GlideRoll Rocker creates smooth heel-to-toe transitions that also play a role in reducing stress to the ankle joint. Overall the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is a fantastic option for easy, pain-free, worry-free runs.

Saucony Triumph 22

Like the Brooks Ghost Max 2, the Saucony Triumph 22 fits into the more responsive feel of max cushioned running shoes, while providing a level of cushioning that's comparable to the Asics Gel Nimbus 26.

It's a premium, joy-inspiring ride that cradles your feet in superfoam, featuring a PWRRUN PB midsole that the Saucony Triumph 21 missed out on. This technology shares the name with the foam used in Saucony's elite racing shoes including the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 4. However, don't expect it to have the same energised feel. In the Saucony Triumph 22, it seems to compress more easily for that softer sensation underfoot.

Superfoam is an exciting choice for a running shoe that's intended for easy-going and recovery paces, rather than to lead the pack. The result is a plush running shoe that soaks up shock effortlessly, while feeling supremely fun to run in. You may even have success wearing the Saucony Triumph 22 as your marathon shoe, enjoying the feel of the gentle forefoot rocker that makes transitions more effortless and that potentially boosts energy return.

This overhaul of the Saucony Triumph 22 from its previous edition certainly earned the hype and we're excited to see where this running shoe evolves from here.

Happy running!




If you liked this, you'll love

Back To Blog