Hoka Clifton 10
Pros
- Superb joint protection
- Wider toebox improves toe splay
- Comfortable upper
- Stable ride despite its high stack height
- Works well for heel strikers
- Ideal for long runs
- Versatile for daily walking or jogging
- Achilles-friendly heel collar design
- Traction improvements
Cons
- Needs a better foam ASAP
- Notable weight gain from v9
- Feels more Bondi than Clifton
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber for enhanced durability and traction
- Outer Material: Synthetic Resin, contributing to lightweight construction
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit
Specifications
- Rating: 3.9 out of 5 based on 17 reviews
- Weight: Lightweight, specifics vary by size
- Sizing: Available in various sizes for a better fit
The Hoka Clifton 10 is a lightweight, cushioned, and stable shoe that is well-suited for covering long distances, earning it the designation of our top daily trainer. Lab testing confirms its comfort across various distances, excelling particularly on days focused less on speed.
The thick midsole provides substantial protection with a stack height of 44.4/32.0 mm in the heel and forefoot, significantly dampening ground feel. Our durometer readings indicate a soft sensation at 17.1 HA, ensuring consistent comfort during use.
The fluid midsole enhances the smoothness of transitions, displaying a 6.7% increase in flexibility compared to average results from our bend test. Its lightweight construction contributes to an agile feel, with a weight of just 9.7 oz (275g), remaining below the 10-ounce threshold.
In laboratory measurements, the platform width was found to be greater than average at 116.9/94.5 mm. This feature promotes stability despite the shoe's height, while the midsole sidewalls assist in maintaining proper foot alignment.
Though the padded upper provides comfort and support, it offers limited ventilation, which may not be ideal for warmer conditions. We recommend using this shoe in cooler environments or combining it with thin socks during hotter weather.
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.
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6
Pros
- Record-breaking shock absorption
- Wide platform ensures stability
- Super-plush foam
- Improved energy return
- Cozy upper
- No price hike this year
- Ideal for forefoot strikers
- Solid durability
- Semi-gusseted tongue for secure lockdown
- Good torsional flexibility despite its size
Cons
- Narrow, low-volume interior fit
- Still a heavy shoe
- Weak airflow
- Low drop doesn't work for everyone
Key Features
- Fresh Foam X midsole: Delivers the most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort.
- Reflective details: Enhance visibility during early morning or evening runs.
- Lightweight design: Weighing only 241 grams (8.5 oz), ensuring you won’t feel weighed down while wearing them.
- Synthetic material: Provides durability and ease of care.
- Lace closure: Offers a secure fit.
- Gusseted tongue design: Ensures a comfortable and secure lockdown fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh for breathability
- Inner material: Cotton for added comfort
The Fresh Foam X More v6 is designed for individuals seeking exceptional cushioning and support during long walks. It provides significant shock absorption, making it a top choice among New Balance walking shoes, as confirmed by our lab tests.
With a noteworthy midsole, the More v6 features a heel stack of 41.8 mm—which is 7.2 mm above average—and a forefoot height of 38.5 mm, exceeding the average by 12.5 mm. This design leads to superior comfort, verified by high shock absorption scores of 152 SA for the heel and 144 SA for the forefoot, resulting in a 37.1% reduction in leg load compared to typical options.
Despite its tall stack height, stability remains a strong point, thanks to the broad platform measuring 122.5/102.0 mm, which enhances confidence and secure footing. The design ensures that users do not feel unstable when walking.
A drawback to consider is that the big toe area is more tapered than average, potentially feeling restrictive for those with wider feet. For added comfort, this model does come in wide and extra-wide options to accommodate different foot shapes.
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.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X
Pros
- Works well as a casual sneaker too
- Premium, high-quality materials throughout
- Stretchy, roomy upper
- Fantastic energy return
- Built-to-last durability
- Best Ultraboost version to date
- Stable for heel strikers
- Increased stack height
- Noticeable weight reduction
- Grips very well
Cons
- Steep price
- Ventilation falls short of expectations
- Limited to slower paces
- Less stack height than advertised
Key Features
- Continental Outsole: Crafted with Continental rubber for superior grip and reliability in all conditions.
- Environmentally Friendly: Made with at least 20% recycled materials to help reduce waste and reliance on finite resources.
- Torsion System: Provides enhanced stability between the heel and forefoot for a better running experience.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Ultraboost 5X is particularly suited for individuals seeking a well-cushioned walking shoe, especially those with wider feet. Our wear tests reveal its comfortable upper, supportive platform, and flexible midsole contribute to an overall cozy feel.
This model features a spacious toebox, complemented by the stretchy Primeknit upper that accommodates various foot shapes. The toebox measures **75.4 mm** at the big toe area, which is larger than the **73.7 mm** average, confirming its roominess and minimal taper.
In terms of cushioning, the bouncy Light Boost technology provides effective impact protection with a stack height of **34.6/24.2 mm**. Our durometer testing indicated a softer-than-average rating of **16.4 HA**, yet the shoe maintains a balanced feel, contributing positively to stability during use.
Throughout our walking tests, the Ultraboost 5X adapted smoothly to our strides, reducing fatigue levels. Notably, it showcased **27.4%** greater flexibility compared to the average, requiring less force for movement.
However, the price point of **$180** may present a drawback for some users, as other shoes are available offering similar experiences at more competitive rates.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 27
Pros
- Even more foam underfoot!
- Premium-feel, breathable upper
- Fantastic stability
- Improved toebox with extra wiggle room
- Flexible knit tongue
- True maximalist comfort for recovery runs
- Amazing heel lockdown
- Top-tier grip
Cons
- Feels bulky and heavy
- Minor price increase
- Lacks energy return
Key Features
- Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Wraps your foot in a soft feel while ensuring breathability.
- Sustainable materials: At least 75% of the main upper material is made from recycled content, reducing waste and carbon emissions.
- Eco-friendly dyeing process: The sockliner utilizes a solution dyeing process that cuts water usage by approximately 33% and reduces carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
- PureGEL technology: Delivers lightweight cushioning for softer landings, enhancing comfort during runs.
- FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning: Made with around 24% bio-based content sourced from renewables, this technology offers both a plush landing and responsive toe-off.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for enhanced grip and durability
- Outer material: Mesh for improved breathability
- Inner material: Knit for added comfort and flexibility
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 is best suited for runners seeking a stable and cushioned daily running shoe. Its significant midsole provides excellent impact protection while ensuring confidence in both rigid construction and grip, based on extensive lab tests and field runs.
Equipped with Hybrid ASICSGRIP, the Nimbus 27 delivers notable traction, achieving a score of 0.84 and surpassing the lab average by 82.6%. The shoe's performance in shock absorption is also impressive, registering a high 136 SA rating.
The foam underfoot measures 42.7/34.4 mm, offering cushioning that exceeds the average by 8.3/8.6 mm. Runners, particularly heel strikers, will appreciate the benefits of the PureGEL technology, which ensures each step remains comfortable.
Despite its plush design, the Gel Nimbus 27 maintains a stable feel, attributed to its sidewalls, wide platform, and stiff midsole. The shoe demonstrated the highest 5/5 torsional rigidity score, confirming its stability during testing.
However, it should be noted that the Nimbus 27 is 12.8% heavier than some alternatives, which may not appeal to those looking for a more agile running option.
Nike Interact Run
Pros
- Ideal for hot climates
- Perfect for everyday life
- Exceptional comfort
- Fantastic value
- Great for beginners and heel strikers
- Flyknit upper under $100!
- Really lightweight
- Upper durability
Cons
- Not very bouncy
- Outsole lacks grip
- Only for short and easy runs
Key Features
- Soft, Responsive Foam Midsole: Provides a comfortable and smooth ride for your runs and daily activities.
- Flyknit Upper: Features zones of breathability that keeps your feet cool, particularly at the toe box, while ensuring a secure fit.
- Durable Rubber Outsole: Engineered using runner-informed data to offer optimal traction where you need it most.
- Overlays at the Toe: Designed for added durability, ensuring longevity in wear.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic or Leather, Textile and Mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Nike Interact Run is an ideal choice for individuals seeking a versatile walking and running shoe, thanks to its lightweight design, excellent ventilation, and notable durability in the upper. Priced at $85, it offers significant savings of 33.6% compared to the average lab-tested Nike trainer, making it our top budget pick.
The Flyknit upper provides a unique combination of cushioning, breathability, and durability, which typically have an inverse relationship. At an accessible price, the premium feel of the material is evident. Our smoke test rates the airflow at a perfect 5/5, while resilience is verified with another perfect score on our Dremel test.
This shoe’s value extends beyond running, as it is suitable for various daily activities. Weighing only 8.5 oz (241g), it enhances agility by being 9.4% lighter than average. Additionally, its flexibility contributes to its lightweight feel, as confirmed by our bend test, where it demonstrated 48.8% more malleability than average.
However, we recommend the Interact Run primarily for light and easy runs due to the midsole's lack of responsiveness. Those looking for a more dynamic running experience may want to consider other options.