ASICS Novablast 5
Pros
- Improved energy return with FF Blast MAX foam
- Plushiest foam in a Novablast yet
- Keeps the same price as v4
- Higher stack height for extra cushioning
- Enhanced flexibility
- Lighter than its predecessor
- Best Novablast ever for wide feet
- Exceptional weight-to-cushion balance
- Works for short, medium and long runs
Cons
- Breathability could be improved
- Toebox durability
Key Features
- Maximal Midsole Cushioning: The ASICS Novablast 5 features a maximalist midsole design that enhances comfort and shock absorption, making it suitable for longer runs.
- Grippy Outsole: The outsole is engineered with high-traction rubber to provide reliable grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability during your runs.
- Engineered Fit: Designed with a focus on improving fit, these shoes ensure a secure lockdown, allowing you to focus on your performance without distractions.
- Synthetic Materials: Both the outer and inner materials are crafted from synthetic components, optimizing durability and breathability.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: Ankle Strap
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Inner Material: Synthetic
The Novablast 5 is ideal for runners with a heel-strike pattern, providing substantial cushioning and comfort across various distances and paces.
This shoe features exceptional softness, particularly noticeable during heel landings, with a measured cushion height of 40.9 mm. Our durometer tests indicated that the midsole is 38.4% softer than average, which contributes to a pillowy yet responsive underfoot experience.
Unlike many maximalist shoes that may compromise stability, the Novablast 5 offers increased width in the midsole, with an added 8.3/6.9 mm in the forefoot and heel. This design helps secure footing while minimizing the risk of ankle rolls, even during sharp turns.
The lightweight build, at only 9.0 oz (254g), combined with its uncomplicated midsole, makes Novablast 5 an excellent choice for daily training. Our flexibility test confirmed this, showing it to be 32.2% more flexible than average, allowing for a natural stride.
A key drawback is that the outsole does not provide sufficient traction on wet surfaces, making it less suitable for those requiring maximum grip.
Brooks Ghost 16
Pros
- Dependable
- Optimal for heel strikers
- Long-lasting outsole
- Great stability
- Improved responsiveness
- Versatile for multiple activities
- Maintains affordable price
Cons
- Tongue not gusseted
- Stiff heel counter
- Low toebox volume
- Still needs better energy return
Key Features
- Waterproof Protection: The GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology is bonded directly to the upper, offering breathable waterproof protection that's perfect for outdoor running in different weather conditions.
- Dynamic Cushioning: Featuring soft, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, this model provides lightweight comfort and support without adding bulk.
- Smooth Transitions: The integrated Segmented Crash Pad ensures easy flow from landing to toe-off, accommodating various foot strike patterns.
- Enhanced Upper: The engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print not only adds structure but also enhances breathability and comfort during your runs.
Specifications
- Fabric type: Outer material: textile; lining and insole: textile; outsole: other material.
- Origin: Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber.
- Outer material: Rubber.
The Brooks Ghost 16 is recommended as a top daily trainer for beginners due to its cushioned platform, straightforward midsole, and durable outsole. This model is ideal for absorbing daily mileage and accommodates various activities beyond running.
Designed for comfort, it features a 35.1 mm heel stack that promotes gentle landings. The durometer measurement of the DNA Loft v3 confirms a balanced 21.6 HA, which provides bounce in each stride. With a modest forefoot design, it has a double-digit 12.4 mm heel-to-toe drop, making it suitable for beginners who typically heel strike or experience Achilles and calf issues.
The midsole offers a smooth glide with every step, allowing for unrestricted movement. Our flex test shows it is 53.3% more adaptive than average, resulting in a more natural running sensation. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners adjusting to the impact of running on pavement.
The outsole demonstrates durability, sustaining only a 0.7 mm dent in our Dremel test compared to the 0.9 mm average, indicating its ability to withstand wear and tear over time.
However, runners who tend to strike with their midfoot or forefoot may find the lack of cushioning in the forefoot area to be harsh. Overall, the Ghost 16 is best suited for those who primarily rear strike.
Hoka Mach 6
Pros
- Really lightweight
- Fantastic outsole
- Exciting ride
- Highly cushioned
- Great for heel strikers
- Handles faster paces
- Superb lockdown
- Excellent value at $140
Cons
- Drop varies from stated
- Tapered toebox
- Thin tongue
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: The Mach 6 is Hoka's lightest model, allowing for swift movement during runs.
- Responsive Midsole: Equipped with a super critical foam midsole to enhance energy return.
- Durable Outsole: Features strategic rubber coverage to increase the lifespan of the shoe.
- Zonal Breathability: The creel jacquard upper promotes airflow to keep your feet cool.
- Comfort Fit: Internal gusset design provides a foot-hugging feel that enhances overall comfort.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Canvas
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: Not specified but recognized as the lightest in its category.
The Hoka Mach 6 is a lightweight daily trainer, well-suited for runners seeking both responsiveness and comfort. Lab results confirm that the Mach 6 excels in providing a significant performance across various paces and distances, enhancing the overall running experience with its airy construction.
Weighing in at only 8.2 oz (232g), the Mach 6 is 12.5% lighter than average while maintaining a generous stack height. Its fluid midsole adapts to natural foot flexions, as evidenced by our 90-degree test, which shows it has 36.4% less resistance than typical models, thereby improving comfort during easy runs.
The midsole effectively balances responsiveness and comfort, with measurements of 36.0/26.4 mm and composed of a lightweight bouncy 20.4 HA foam that promotes quicker pacing. Additionally, the built-in rocker facilitates smooth forward transitions, contributing to sustained momentum throughout runs.
However, this focus on agility and weight reduction may lead to some compromise in midsole width. Runners with wider feet may want to consider alternative options for improved comfort during their runs.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Pros
- Stack height upgrade!
- Reliable support
- Breathable mesh with oversized vents
- Price remains unchanged
- Available in 4 width options
- Good durability
- Plush tongue for top comfort
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Foam upgrade to DNA Loft v3
Cons
- Firmer-than-expected midsole
- High drop may feel too steep
- Toebox height is a bit low
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Guidance System: The Guiderails Holistic Support System helps guide your body in its natural motion path, preventing excess movement.
- Dynamic Cushioning: With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam, enjoy soft and adaptive cushioning for a luxurious running experience.
- Enhanced Upper: The engineered air mesh upper provides breathability, stretch, and structural support for a comfortable fit.
- Smooth Transitions: A newly designed outsole and midsole enhance smooth transitions during your run.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Rubber
- Inner material: Nylon
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is ideal for heel strikers seeking stability in their running shoes. Its design features a balance of cushioning and rigidity, ensuring each landing remains secure.
The rear section of the shoe is notable for its performance. The heel counter received a stiffness rating of 4/5, providing a steady hold without excessive harshness. Additionally, the heel's landing base measures 95.0 mm, which surpasses the average by 4.3 mm.
In terms of comfort, the heel stack height is a significant 39.0 mm, compared to the average of 34.2 mm, delivering ample support for repetitive impacts. With a drop of 13.5 mm, the shoe enhances transition smoothness, making it particularly suitable for rear strikers.
The inclusion of GuideRails technology is an essential feature that helps maintain foot positioning. This design element contributes to stability, allowing for greater control during runs.
A potential drawback is that the shoe feels somewhat firm, prioritizing support over plush cushioning. Runners who favor a softer feel may want to explore other options.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2
Pros
- Lighter than version 1
- Comfortable yet breathable upper
- Cold-proof PEBA midsole
- Stable ride with Support Rods
- Reflective accents for night visibility
- Maintains competitive price tag
- Responsive Dreamstrike+ foam
- Flexible, natural running experience
- Great for walking
Cons
- Outsole lacks Continental
- Not cushioned for forefoot strikers
- Still lacks a gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Supportive Design: The shoes incorporate a well-cushioned midsole that provides excellent support during runs.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, they promise longevity even under rigorous use.
- Lace-Up Closure: The traditional lace-up design ensures a secure fit throughout your run.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for running, walking, and casual outings, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.
- Breathable Material: The polyester outer material allows for airflow, helping to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Reliable Traction: Equipped with a rubber sole that offers good grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability and safety.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Supernova Rise 2 is a highly spacious and supportive running shoe, making it particularly well-suited for individuals with wide feet. During our testing, both on the road and in the lab, this shoe demonstrated a forgiving ride that allows for extended mileage, especially among heel-strike runners.
This model provides ample space for broader or swollen feet, with our gel mold measuring the ball of the foot area at 98.7 mm, surpassing the average of 95.5 mm. Throughout our testing, there was no discomfort or unwanted pressure experienced on the feet.
Stability is enhanced by small side wraps in the heel and the Support Rods, which assist in aligning foot placement without sacrificing comfort. Our durometer measurements revealed a solid balance, with a reading of 21.0 HA, consistent with the average performance metrics.
The light and flexible construction contributes to an effortless sensation during runs. With a weight of only 9.1 oz (257g), it is below the average of 9.4 oz (267g). Additionally, the shoe exhibited 37.4% greater flexibility than average during our flex test.
However, we noted potential concerns regarding the outsole's durability, suggesting that those prioritizing longevity in their footwear may want to explore other options.
Saucony Ride 18
Pros
- Massive weight reduction
- Superb breathability
- Responsive ride
- Good option as an everyday shoe
- PWRRUN+ insole
- Great vertical room for toe movement
- Same price as v17
- Fantastic step-in feel
- No heel slippage at all
- Improved shock absorption
Cons
- Narrow for wide-footer runners
- Low outsole coverage
Key Features
- Neutral cushioning shoe for a balanced feel during runs.
- Hourglass shape enhances transition from heel to toe.
- PWRRUN+ foam provides superior cushioning and durability.
- XT-900 foam coverage increases protection and longevity.
- Engineered mesh design ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
- 8mm offset caters to different running styles.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Leather
- Inner material: Cotton
The Saucony Ride 18 is a walking-running shoe well-suited for individuals seeking a combination of comfort, support, and durability in their footwear. Its lightweight design and responsive cushioning contribute to a positive running experience.
With a stack height of 35.0/26.6 mm, the Ride 18 provides significant cushioning that effectively reduces ground impact while maintaining a sleek profile. The foam has a durometer reading of 26.1 HA, indicating it is 24.3% firmer than average, which contributes to a stable and springy feel during use.
This shoe supports maneuverability, making it suitable for extended periods of wear. Our tests indicate it is 9.6% more bendable than average, and its weight of only 9.0 oz (255g) makes it lighter than many competitors in this category.
Performance testing revealed that the outsole's durability meets expectations across various environments, as it demonstrated an 85.0 HC hardness rating, which is 6.5% harder than average. Additionally, it showed minimal indentation in our Dremel test compared to others. However, users should note that traction on wet surfaces may be insufficient, suggesting those in need of maximum grip might consider alternative options.
Adidas Questar 3
Pros
- Amazing value for money
- Excellent durability from heel to toe
- Breathable upper
- Stable ride
- Comfortable fit
- Great for casual wear too
- Ideal for heel strikers
Cons
- Rigid build
- Needs to lose some weight
- Subpar grip
Key Features
- Breathable Mesh Upper: The mesh upper allows for excellent airflow, keeping your feet cool during your runs.
- Lightweight Bounce Cushioning: Full-length Bounce cushioning enhances comfort and adds spring to your stride, making every step feel lighter.
- High Traction Outsole: The rubber outsole provides great grip, ensuring stability on various surfaces.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Made in part with at least 20% recycled materials, helping reduce waste and reliance on finite resources.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Questar 3 is an ideal choice for budget-conscious runners seeking a reliable daily trainer. Priced at $75, it excels in flexibility, ventilation, and durability, outperforming many supination shoes that average around $146.
This shoe feels lightweight and provides comfort for all-day wear, walks, and occasional gym workouts. Its fluid midsole offers significant cushioning, and our bend test shows it is 5.3% more malleable than the average shoe.
The upper design ensures strong airflow during summer while providing adequate protection against harsh winter winds, making it suitable for year-round use. In our smoke test, it received a 4/5 breathability score.
The outsole demonstrates impressive durability, showing no signs of wear after extensive testing. This longevity is attributed to the rubber used, which is 20.0% more wear-resistant than average, as confirmed by our Dremel test.
However, the Questar 3 may not perform well in rainy conditions, as we observed that its grip was lacking on wet surfaces.