We Tested Hundreds Of Sneakers To Find The Perfect Pairs For Every Type Of Exerciser

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Shopping for the perfect sneaker can activate Goldilocks mode. Maybe you’re on the hunt for a running shoe that has enough cushioning for your tired soles. But it also can’t smash your extra-long second toe. On the other hand, your workout buddy might be in the market for a structured sneak that keeps her rooted in the ground but still keeps away a nagging heel pain. And you both still want your picks to look cute enough with trousers when you quick-change for the office.

Simply put, everyone wants sneakers that fit, feel, and look juuuuust right for wherever their workouts (and life!) take them.

Highly personal, yes! A shoe that works for one person may be totally wrong for another.

“Feet shape and alignment is different from person to person and from feet to feet, and can even be different based on age and time of life,” says Lan Chen, MD, associate professor in clinical orthopedics at the University of California, San Francisco. Your own shoe preferences, too, can change over time (think: when your foot sizes up during pregnancy, adds Dr. Chen, or if you’re rehabbing an injury).

It’s important not only to make sure that your sneaker picks match your personal anatomy and gait needs, but also to swap pairs in and out depending on your circumstances, such as what you're training for at that time, what type of workouts you’re doing most regularly, and more.

For this year’s WH Sneaker Awards, we got granular in our research and testing process to ID the as-close-to-perfect-as-possible pairs for the highest-searched sneaker queries—like finding the best running shoe for overpronators, the best sneaker for standing all day, or the best brand-specific shoes for different activity types. (A loyal Nike, Adidas, or Brooks wearer, for instance? Got you covered.)

We also had all of our testers and pros fill out a questionnaire about their personal sneaker needs and any physical ailments they factor in when purchasing so that you can hear directly from reviewers in a similar boat as you.

Pro tip: Try a Command+F keyword search for terms such as cushion, wide fit, plantar fasciitis, CrossFit—if you’re shopping for something super-specific.

Consider this your permission to treat yourself to the fresh pair (or pairs…) you’ve been eyeing. Your footsies deserve a solemate.

How We Tested

The 80+ winners here stood out against hundreds of contenders. Each shoe—which was tested, vetted, and loved by a WH staffer or advisor—checked the following three boxes: fit and feel, quality, and style. (For new-to-market shoes, a WH team member and/or a fitness professional we trust tested the sneaker through a minimum of three substantial workouts applicable to the shoe type and says they would continue wearing the shoe.)

✓ Fit and feel: The silhouette fits snugly enough around the heel and midfoot without being overly constricting, and it hugs the back of your heel comfortably. There is also enough wiggle room in the toe box. Your movement while wearing the shoe feels natural, comfortable, and supported—without any rubbing or other discomfort.

✓ Quality: The sneaker materials hold up on their designated terrain/in the elements, the laces or fastenings are durable and reliable, and they do not get damaged or deformed when washed and dried.

✓ Style: The design and colors are fashion-forward and on trend (meaning: not sneakers you only want to wear on your basement treadmill and change out of before grocery shopping!). We would wear the sneaker for activities outside of workouts too.

Weight-Lifting / Running / Cross-Training / Walking / Hiking & Trail / Sport & Specialty / Fashion

Best Weight-Lifting Shoes

Adapt Trainer

When you'd prefer to be barefoot but must wear shoes, these are the ones. “I swear these kicks make it feel as if the soles of my feet are rooting into the ground, which makes me feel super-solid for my heaviest lifts,” says WH editor-in-chief Liz Plosser. “Plus, they are so cute and comfy that they’ve become my go-to travel shoes.”

Metcon 8

Unsure of where to start shopping for a lifting shoe? The Nike Metcon is a smart choice. Even the toughest strength-training classes have met their match in this cult-fave lifting shoe, thanks to the lighter, breathable upper material and a springy response in the sole to match your every move.

Lifter

The heel is ever-so-slightly elevated, making them perfect for nailing squats if you have trouble getting deep enough into your position without your form faltering. The flat, minimalist base and Velcro strap for ankle stability are ideal for the heaviest loads.

Primus Lite Knit

“These allow the intrinsic muscles of our feet to work while we are lifting,” says physical therapist Winnie Yu, DPT, CSCS, of Bespoke Treatments. “This allows us to improve our balance, our proprioception and our foot and ankle stability.”

Techloom Tracer

Meet the slim, foot-contouring sneaker that “quickly became a go-to for weight training” for WH executive health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos thanks to the stretchy knit fabric. Plus, the design is flexible enough to walk around in after a workout.

Trainer+

These classic trainers strike the balance between “comfort while running and the stability for power lifting during those crazy run-a-mile-then-lift WODs,” says WH deputy art director and CrossFit regular Christine Giordano.

Forza Trainer

Like all Xero barefoot-style shoes, you feel one with the ground thanks to the thin and flat sole. What's more: “The Velcro strap right below the ankle helps me feel extra locked in and stable when strength training,” says Andriakos.

Strongfeel Women’s Training Shoe

“When I can’t be barefoot, these are my go-to sneakers for a strength session. They are so smooth on the interior,” Nied says. “They strike the perfect balance of feeling snug and supportive without restricting or cutting off circulation, which is a common sneaker prob I deal with.”

Best Running Shoes For Jogging, Speed, Distance, And More

Adizero Adios Pro 3

Looking to run fast on race day? The lightweight foam soles help propel you forward and keep you running efficiently for long miles. “They feel like little jolts of force beneath your feet,” Andriakos says. (Fun fact: She gifted them to her mom for her first half marathon—and her mom went on to place third in her age group at 62 years old!)

Adizero Boston 11

“I have a history of foot issues and know I can end a long run still feeling strong and safe in my Bostons,” Andriakos says. What’s more: They do not have a carbon plate—a feature in the midsole of many running shoes used to boost efficiency and reactivity and give you that extra race-day edge. “Without it, you really get to feel your natural stride and be in total control when you’re training,” she adds.

Ultraboost Light

The Ultraboosts are a fan favorite—and now the latest version is 30 percent lighter. They are a great option for beginner runners too as they have a neutral fit and accommodate various foot widths. “I feel springy with every takeoff and supported in every strike—a flexible shoe for all levels,” says Andriakos.

Rivera 3

The Riveras work for many runners' feet but are especially fitting if you prefer a more controlled, snug or “slim” fit.

Gel-Kayano 29

A go-to that only gets better each year. “I wore a boot for years in high school due to an overuse injury from ballet,” Andriakos shares. “My podiatrist told me to stick to Gel-Kayanos—and I’ve trusted them for over a decade.” She always comes back to them for casual running, as they are a weightier shoe and not designed for speed work.

Gel-Nimbus 25

“The updated Nimbus has a new softer cushioning to, quite literally, make you feel like you're running on clouds,” says Yu. “I've gotten so many patients into this shoe, as it allows for lighter and comfier running.”

Superblast (Unisex)

“These are highly cushioned shoes that look like flotation devices but feel like racing flats—they’re so light,” says Marli Higa, WH research and copy chief. The neutral footbed provides solid support for a high arch, and the forefoot cushioning is as plush as in the heel—an ideal shoe for heel-striking distance runners.

Ghost 15

In the Ghosts, you’ll get a cushioned, reliable, no-fuss neutral ride. “The Ghosts are also great for runners with high arches,” Yu adds. “These are a go-to choice for daily trainers.”

5.ZeroGrand Embrostitch

“I liked these runners for mid-range and medium-paced runs—so much, I didn't want to take them off after,” says WH fitness editor Jennifer Nied. “The detailed stitching made them look great off the path. What really stood out was the tongue and collar that lock down for a super secure feel on top and the cushy sole under foot, with sustainable materials to boot.”

Running Shoe

The new shoe brand has you complete a questionnaire to ID which of three fits and widths is your perfect match. (We heart personalization!) Nied describes them as “sweatpants for my feet.” A star pick for recreational runs and all-day walking shoes, “as the comfort is so excellent,” she adds.

Bondi 8

Branded as the "ultra-cushioned" shoe, the Bondi is great for anyone with heel discomfort because it offers a lightweight bed of thick foam with a new extended heel option. Dr. Chen adds, “they are light, supportive, and extremely cushioned to maximize comfort and long hours on your feet.”

Clifton 9

The cushioned, responsive pair “literally saved my feet while marathon training,” says WH associate news editor Currie Engel, who overpronates. “I can’t recommend these shoes enough—especially for long distance runners.” (Fact: Engel shaved over an hour off her marathon time at the Paris Marathon in these kicks!)

Mach 5

These were the official shoes for WH's National Workout Buddy Day—and every person who sweated with us had only positive things to say about the comfort kick. They feel snappy, yet plush, each time you land on each foot and have that rare universal neutral fit.

Blissfeel 2

“I used to think I preferred max cushion in my running shoes to protect my bad foot, but these are much sturdier and minimalist—and I’m in love,” says Andriakos, who laces up in these for 4 to 6 milers. “The insole has nice arch support and contours the sole—and the shoe is so stylish.”

Fresh Foam X More V4

“The whole forefoot is just as cushiony as the heel, which made speed drills and sprints feel not only less impactful on my knees but surprisingly easy,” says Higa, who has had three ACL surgeries. The sneak also has a nice and wide fit.

Women's FuelCell SuperComp Trainer V2

The eye-catching shoe has very high stack (meaning: the material between your foot and the ground) in the heel and midfoot but still allows you to rock to the toes for added propulsion, says WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller. “If you need cushion and don't want to feel the ground, these are a safe bet!”

React Miler 2

If you’re shopping for the swoosh and new to running, the React Milers are your winner. WH staffers recommend these to buds who are starting to make running or jogging a regular habit. Why? The reasonable price point and right amount of support and cushion for green legs and feet.

Pegasus 40

The Pegasus are a great neutral, all-purpose shoe that packs support and peppiness but doesn't feature a crazy-high stack that may feel unnatural to a recreational jogger-runner. “I ran my first half marathon in the Pegasus and blew my goal time out of the water, with no pain or blisters during training,” says Andriakos.

Vaporfly 3

The third edition of the Vaporfly was designed to be the lightest ever, while maintaining the energy return runners love from the original. Whether you’re going for speed in a 10-K or running a marathon, “I find it more stable than other racing shoes,” Andriakos says. “It's approachable for someone who maybe has never considered having a race day shoe to go after a PR.”

Invincible 3

The new Invincible 3s are specifically designed to offset the soreness and fatigue from all those tough training runs. Peep the slab of cushioning to help you feel springy and offer you a soft landing.

Deviate Nitro 2

“The word that keeps coming to mind as I run in these is buoyant,” says Lydia Wang, WH love and life editor. “The cushioning really takes my runs to the next level; I feel supported and comfortable, which is truly what I've been looking for in a sneaker.”

Floatride Energy 5

In these runner faves, “I felt fast and smooth on sprint intervals,” says Nied. “The Floatrides also feature a midfoot X-plate, which can be nice for people who are newer to training for speed or PRs, as it helps propel you and helps you run efficiently.”

Endorphin Shift 3

The tough sneak features winter-appropriate lining with water resistance and insulation. “I brought these to Jackson Hole to log some chilly, snowy walks and runs and felt protected and warm,” Andriakos says.

Elliot Runner Sneakers

Both WH editor-in-chief Liz Plosser and Andriakos utilize the first-ever running shoe from Tracksmith for treadmill interval training. “They are stylish and lightweight and have that peppy, quick rebound for sprints,” Andriakos says.

UA Flow Velociti Elite

“They are so lightweight and have the perfect toe box roominess for long middle toes like mine,” Andriakos says. “The cushion is so responsive, but I still feel one with the ground and in control of my stride.”

Best Cross-Training Shoes

TF-02 Training Shoe

“The sneakers are flexible for quick agility-style workouts,” says Giordano. “The flexibility also gives you a nice connection to the floor when lifting—you can really feel the ball of your foot gripping, and they have nice arch support!”

Cloudrunner

“My favorite thing about it, aside from the sleek design, is how versatile it is,” says Andrea Shephard, public relations assistant at Hearst. “Being in college, I work out in many different ways—from road runs and HIIT classes to Pilates, weights, and boxing. The Cloudrunner is a sneaker that I find supportive enough to sustain all these activities.”

Nano X3

“I felt very stable on the rower, and sturdy while doing strength training and floor work (i.e., glute bridges with weights, squats with weights, pushups, planks),” says Naydeline Mejia, assistant editor.

Never Quit Training Shoe

Ryka is a women-focused sneaker brand designed around the female anatomy and needs. “This pair is lightweight and flexible enough to move laterally with ease, but they still keep your feet and ankles from rolling, even when doing quick pivots and side shuffles on the treadmill,” says Andriakos.

Ride 15

Andriakos recommends the pick to anyone who has no idea where to start with a sneaker for the gym or classes. “They are fit for running but transition seamlessly to HIIT training given how they contour the foot and offer structure and support,” she explains. It's a do-it-all shoe that *also* has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Approval.

Go Run Alpha Tempo

The lightweight, snug fit—not to mention the style and colors—impressed WH assistant editor Rose Lauture. “There is a slight lift to the sneaker, plus they come with a removable insole to support high arches during lots of bouncy movement,” she describes. “They make for a perfect little 'trampoline' under your feet, adding support for your shins too, for plyo work.”

Women's Trainer AD 1

This pair offers a plush-yet-sturdy base when jumping, hopping, and beyond—plus it is made with sustainable and recycled materials such as algae and plastic. Have a wider foot? Go a half size up.

UA SlipSpeed™

The sneak slips on with ease thanks to the lace-free BOA tightening system. They also function as a slide due to the collapsible heel for when you're leaving the gym. The sole is nice and sturdy and flat for strength training, but flexible and responsive enough to function for other types of workouts too.

Best Shoes For Walking

Women's Sneakers

Whether walking around the house or around the neighborhood, these “perfectly comfortable and lightweight shoes are a great value at an affordable price,” Andriakos says. Plus, they come in countless colors.

TechLoom Zipline

“These are like little clouds beneath the feet—and I've never seen a shoe style quite like them," Andriakos says. “I lace up in my Ziplines mostly for walking and errands.”

Novablast 3

Soft, cushiony, and great for pain-free walking, this model has an elevated heel. “If you are a heel striker in general or deal with nagging heel pain, these would be a match,” says Engel.

Time Off Platform Slip On

A platform walking sneaker? Yes! This elevated pair performs thanks to the Dr. Scholl's comfort built-in. “I can wear them all day with no foot aches,” says Andriakos, who deals with sesamoiditis (nagging inflammation of the sesamoid bones in the ball of the foot).

Athens

“First day out of the box, this pair performed even with no socks, 90-degree weather, and on my feet all day exploring, on a weeklong vacation—I could not have been more comfortable,” says Laura McLaughlin, WH managing editor.

Cloudgo

“They feel sturdy, yet cushioned and supportive. The light and responsive soles make perfect sense as a standing and walking shoe,” Andriakos says. (It's no wonder nurses and teachers rave about them!)

Out N About III Low Sneaker Waterproof

“My feet stayed totally dry on snow, grass, mud, and slush, and I never slipped on the smooshy surfaces after a New York City snowstorm,” says Nied. “As long as the snow isn't above the ankles, these work as well as full-blown snow boots and are much easier to pack if you're traveling.”

OOmg eeZee Low

Enter: a warm hug for your feet. These easy slip-ons mold to your entire foot, making them perfect for strolls after grueling workouts.

Geotrecca Low RP

“This neutral-looking shoe goes with everything,” says WH senior e-commerce editor Neha Tandon. “After unexpectedly getting caught in snow and doing a rainy hike, these kept me warm and dry and were slip-proof on the steep parts.”

Walker Classic

“They are stiff and structured in a protective way, but still pack enough cushioning and a wider design for all-day comfort,” Andriakos says. “I swear I stand with better posture when I wear them.”

Best Hiking And Trail Running Shoes

Lone Peak 7

The Lone Peaks have overwhelmingly positive reviews praising how flexible they are even in hot weather. “If you notice your feet swell or you get blisters in warm temps, give these a shot,” says Andriakos.

Caldera 6

New to running on trails? The Calderas offer a tough grip and max cushioning to help your feetsies get used to uneven, less-predictable terrain.

Catamount 2

“I’ve worn the Catamount while hiking multiple 14ers,” Nied says. “These hold up against rocky trails, occasional scrambles, and are, of course, flexible enough to run.”

TERREX WMN Hiker Mid Rain.Rdy

This hiking shoe was designed by women, for women. The soft, supportive ankle support feels downright sock-like, adding extra protection against rubbing.

Peakfreak™ II Mid OutDry™ Boot

While this winner from the classic outdoor retailer is technically a hiking boot, it packs the comfort qualities of a trusted sneaker. “Whenever someone asks me about what hiking boot to invest in, I send them this pair,” Andriakos says. “For the price, they are stylish, sturdy, offer traction and ankle support, and require no break-in period.”

TrailFly G 270 V2

WH features director Kristin Canning describes the pair as “super comfy, with a great grip, and very lightweight.” Because they have very little heel stack or arch, you are much more rooted into and close to the ground than many other trail running shoes. “You have room for the toes to spread out,” she adds.

Moab Speed GORE-TEX® X Sweaty Betty

“In the fall and winter, the gore-tex keeps your feet warm, and the elements out,” Andriakos says, adding that they function for hikes and runs. This particular pair, in collaboration with Sweaty Betty, is extra jazzy thanks to the poppy colors.

GS:TAM

These bright, buoyant sneakers bring comfort and a smile to sufferfests. “Whatever terrain underfoot, I felt in control and fast through unstable sand, rocks, and gravel,” Nied says. Don't skip the add-on carbon plate; the extra spring in your step kicks in when muscles fatigue.

Ultraventure 3

Here's a shoe that transitions seamlessly from road to trail. The third version of the bestseller is the cushiest and lightest to date—so you'll feel hugged and protected in all the right places on rough terrain but free to move on smooth pavement.

Primus Trail II FG

Barefoot and hiking may seem like opposing concepts, but opting for a minimalist hiking sneak has offered more control and better ground feel for tricky terrain. “The tread is grippy without being cumbersome and the ultra-light weight is unbeatable,” Nied says. “Plus, the laces are secure, no tying required.”

Norvan LD 3 GTX

Dr. Chen, who loves to hike, is a big fan of this reliable pair. “They are comfortable, supportive, and have Vibram soles with deep grippy treads that work well to stabilize your foot uneven terrain,” she says.

Best Sport And Specialty Sneakers - Tennis, Water, Golf, And More

S2G Spikeless Golf Shoes

For recreational trips to the links, this spikeless shoe has just enough traction for your swing and still keeps feet comfortable through all 18 holes or more. The price and fit make them a top choice.

Quest Road Cycling Shoe

Comfort and customization abound in these soft fabric uppers that “have the feel of a snug running shoe,” says Higa. “It was both supportive and flexible enough for a 90-minute ride. The three Velcro straps make adjustment easy too.”

Jet Mach 3 All Court Tennis Shoe

After a quick break-in period, “the shoes were a dream to move in on hard courts,” says Susan Choung, recipe editor for WH. “They’re light with sturdy ankle support and very little toe drag, making them ideal for speed and agility.”

Vesta Studio Cycling Shoe

With these shoes, only one speedy Velcro strap stands between you and your next indoor cycling workout. A budget-friendly price and comfort send them straight to the top of the leaderboard.

Gel-Resolution 9

The Gel-Resolution's from ASICS have toe protection, and an interior wrap that provides midfoot support and stabilizes the foot during quick cutting and pivoting motions during play, says Dr. Chen. “They have minimal drop, so you are less likely to roll the ankle during play.”

The Roger Pro Clay

The herringbone design on the outsole allows the clay to move into and through the grooves and prevents you from slipping.

Rush Pro Ace

As an amateur pickleball and tennis player, Andriakos appreciates how energetic these sneakers feel under her feet. “They’re great for quick lateral movements and pivoting with ease, even for beginners.”

Low-Top Dance Sneaker

Find your groove in these classic low-tops. They look like an everyday lifestyle sneaker but feature two pivot points on the sole to make turning, spinning, and changing direction (like during tricky hip-hop choreography!) a breeze.

Outflow Universal Sandal

“They are light, grippy, and dry super-fast, which is why I wear them for any short hikes with water along the way for a swim,” says Andriakos.

Best Fashion Sneakers

Dina Sneakers

City dwellers all over can be spotted in these stylish kicks. And they're legit—supportive through long miles of strolling with no rubbing or break-in period.

Roadrunner Sneaker

Picture: everything ya love about Birdies in a stylish everyday lifestyle sneaker. The soles feel downright orthotic—and they boast thousands of positive reviews.

Kickoff Trainer

A bestseller for good reason: The chunky, goes-with-everything shoes are on trend and still feature a sole with traction for slick sidewalks.

327s

“I tell everyone to get a pair of New Balance 327s,” says Andriakos. “They are so in style and are the most comfortable fashion sneaker to wear all day.” Tip: Go a size and a half down to shop men's options, since colors and sizes sell out *fast* with these cult favorites.

574s

Want stylish support? “The 574s let me stand in the kitchen all day and run after the kids after school,” says Kate Merker, chief food director.

Vectiv Taraval

“People never believe that these are from The North Face—which takes style further than many other outdoor brands,” Andriakos says. While the chunky, bright shoes are technically a hiking boot (and function great off road!), the rocker and color-blocking make the pair perfect for everyday wear.

Pacific

If a sneaker and a dress shoe had a baby, the Ponto shoe is it! The hybrid style packs the comfort and cushion of a traditional lifestyle sneaker but looks chic with jeans, dresses, and trousers.

RS-TRCK Horizon

The mesh paneling keeps your feet cool, while the suede details and bright hues make these major standouts. Reviewers also rave about the heel-to-toe support.

Women's Classic Leather Sneaker

At $80, the Classic Leathers are a steal that never goes out of style. The slight wedge adds heel comfort and pain protection. Good luck choosing just one color.

Saysh Two

From Alyson Felix's sneaker brand aimed at closing the gender equality gap in athletics, these fashion sneakers feature ribbon laces and elegant seams. What's more: Saysh has a maternity returns policy—if you become an expectant mom and your feet change size, you can contact the brand for a free, new pair of Saysh sneakers in your new size.

Kinetic Impact II Strap Slip On

WH executive fashion director Kristen Saladino loved the graphic, rugged design of the sole and the pop of color. “They were super easy to get on and off while doing bike bootcamps on the Peloton—no time wasted tying laces,” she adds. Tip: Size down.

X Fitz Roy Trek Trail Sneaker

“I hiked in this pair out in Colorado and found them just the right amount of snug and stable for sunny day hikes,” Andriakos says. “So many compliments!”

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