The search for the perfect running shoe continues to evolve, emphasizing performance, injury prevention, and comfort. Having the right running shoes is essential for any avid runner, as it significantly impacts performance and lowers the risk of injuries. Whether tackling marathons or jogging through city streets, having the best running shoes tailored to your stride and foot shape can significantly influence your experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the 10 Best Running Shoes for Men in 2024, each carefully selected to ensure optimal support and performance enhancement.
Best Running Shoes Deals: Top 10 Footwear for Men
Asics’ Novablast 4
“Asics’ Novablast 4 stands out as one of the most versatile running shoes of 2024, priced reasonably at $140 on Zappos. Boasting ample cushioning, it’s a favorite among runners seeking comfort and support across various distances and training regimens. Despite its drawbacks, such as limited grip in wet conditions and weight that might deter speed work, the Novablast 4 delivers a plush ride ideal for easy miles and recovery runs. Its spacious design ensures a comfortable fit, accommodating wider feet while maintaining stability.”
“These shoes feature Asics’ FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO midsole, crafted for cloud-like softness that enhances the running experience with a responsive, bouncy feel. The pronounced rocker shape of the sole promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition, optimizing stride efficiency and reducing fatigue over longer distances. Ideal for everyday runs and recovery sessions, the Novablast 4’s woven textile upper complements its supportive midsole, making it a go-to choice for runners prioritizing comfort and versatility in their footwear.”
Brooks Ghost Max
Priced at $120 on Amazon, the Brooks Ghost Max stands out among cushioned running shoes for 2024 and is currently offered at a 20% discount. This shoe has a plush mesh upper and Brooks’ DNA Loft v2 foam midsole, delivering exceptional comfort and support. Designed with a broad, stable base and a generously padded collar and tongue, it accommodates runners with wider feet while providing a secure fit and a luxurious step-in feel. A curved metal rocker outsole and ample cushioning ensure a smooth change from heel strike to toe-off, ideal for everyday running and recovery sessions.”
“Although the Brooks Ghost Max excels in cushioning and stability, some runners might find its 10 oz weight a bit heavy for faster-paced runs. However, its performance remains stellar for easy recovery runs and moderate-paced workouts on treadmills and outdoor surfaces. Whether logging miles or enjoying leisurely jogs, the Ghost Max’s blend of comfort, support, and durability makes it a top choice for runners prioritizing cushioning without sacrificing performance.”
Hoka Clifton 9
“Available for $145 on Zappos, the Hoka Clifton 9 is an excellent choice for daily training in 2024, serving both casual runners and dedicated athletes effectively. Building on the success of its award-winning predecessors, this ninth iteration is lighter and more cushioned, appealing particularly to serious runners looking for enhanced performance. The shoe achieves an impressive balance of weight reduction and increased cushioning with a 3 mm higher stack height, ensuring a responsive yet comfortable ride.”
“Our experience testing the Hoka Clifton 9 revealed notable improvements in comfort and responsiveness, thanks to updates in the midsole and additional cushioning. The shoe’s redesigned upper, featuring a knit construction and streamlined design with reduced overlays, enhances flexibility and reduces weight without compromising durability. A new reflective heel panel adds safety for nighttime runs, making it a versatile choice for everyday use. While competitive runners focused on speed may opt for higher-end Hoka models, the Clifton 9 remains an excellent option for daily training and walking, available in various colors to suit individual preferences.”
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2
“Currently discounted to $122 on Zappos, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 is the leading high-stack running shoe for 2024, featuring a 32% price reduction. Boasting an impressive 47 mm stacked midsole infused with a cambered carbon plate, this shoe maximizes energy return and is tailored for long-distance runs and race training across all distances. Despite its high stack, it surprises with solid stability, featuring a wider heel designed to mitigate pronation, ensuring a secure stride.”
“The lace-knit upper ensures a snug, secure fit with ample stretch for added comfort, especially in the wide sizes that provide extra space in the midfoot and toebox. FuelCell foam in the midsole balances softness and responsiveness, delivering exceptional energy return that is ideal for high-stack trainers. Durable and stable, this shoe excels in long-distance running and racing scenarios, making it a top choice for runners seeking comfort, support, and performance on the road or track.”
Nike Invincible 3
“Available for $180 on Nike’s website, the Nike Invincible 3 is the top choice for comfortable mileage in 2024, celebrated for its superior cushioning and responsive performance. Ideal for weekly easy runs, it’s spacious forefoot and plush foam midsole—crafted from Nike’s most responsive ZoomX material—ensure a comfortable and supportive ride. The shoe’s ergonomic design facilitates smooth heel-to-toe transitions, enhanced by a meta rocker configuration that benefits heel-striking runners seeking a more natural gait.”
“Favored by runners like Williams, the Nike Invincible 3 stands out for its performance and style, featuring a redesigned look that easily shifts from road running to casual wear. While it may feel slightly heavy for speed-focused runners, its superior cushioning and responsive foam make it a top choice for those prioritizing comfort and support during easy runs. Recommended for road running and daily mileage, the Flyknit upper enhances breathability and flexibility, complementing the shoe’s overall performance and comfort.”
Craft Pure Trail
The Craft Pure Trail, priced at $170 on Zappos, is the best trail running shoe of 2024. It features a durable, protective rubber outsole with exceptional grip, even in slick conditions. The foam cushioning provides a light feel and plenty of energy return, ideal for fast-paced trail runs—the upper perfectly balances lockdown and flexibility, offering support and comfort on challenging terrains. Despite being heavier, the shoe remains light, responsive, and difficult. The thick protective plate shields your feet from rocks and punctures on rugged paths.
We tested the Craft Pure Trail on various surfaces and were thoroughly impressed with its performance. The ultra-grippy, lugged rubber outsole prevents slipping on wet trails, while the durable mesh upper keeps debris out. The comfortable, contoured insole offers excellent support, making the Craft Pure Trail perfect for trail running and hiking. With a weight of 11.3 oz, a heel drop of 6 mm, and Cr Foam™ in the midsole, this shoe ensures durability, responsiveness, and protection, making it a dependable companion for outdoor activities.
Altra Vanish Carbon
The Altra Vanish Carbon, now 20% off at $192 on Altra Running, is acclaimed as the best running shoe for long distances. Its standout feature is the square toe bed, known as Footshape™, which mimics the natural shape of the human foot. This innovative design allows your foot to rest and move naturally, even as it swells during long runs, providing unparalleled comfort. The shoe’s secure fit and lightweight construction make it a top choice for distance runners. The highly specialized Carbitex carbon plate flexes naturally with your foot, offering a boost and propulsion that significantly enhances running efficiency. Furthermore, the balanced, zero-drop cushioning platform ensures proper alignment and form, even when fatigue sets in.
Despite its many advantages, the Vanish Carbon’s narrow fit may only suit some foot anatomies, and its original price of over $200 can be a drawback. However, the engineered mesh upper and Altra EGO™ PRO midsole contribute to the shoe’s overall comfort and performance, making it a reliable option for long-distance runs and races. If a roomy toebox, overall comfort, and enhanced performance are your goals, this shoe is a solid investment. Weighing in at 7.3 oz with a heel drop of 0 mm, the Vanish Carbon excels in design and functionality, positioning itself as a premier choice for long-distance runners seeking comfort and efficiency.
On Cloudeclipse
The On Cloudeclipse, available for $180 on On.com and $224 on Amazon.com, is celebrated as the ultimate companion for long-distance runs. Its standout feature is a thick and responsive midsole that offers superb cushioning, making it ideal for endurance training. The shoe’s sock-like upper provides a snug fit and good breathability, although its weight of 9.8 oz (M9) may feel slightly hefty to some runners.
Recently awarded the RW Gold Medal by wear-testers, the Cloudeclipse impresses with its balanced design and versatility. Despite its weight, which could be a concern for some, its ability to provide comfort and support over long distances makes it a reliable choice for casual and serious runners.
Saucony Kinvara 14
The Saucony Kinvara 14, now available at a discounted price of $90 on both Amazon and Saucony.com, stands out as an excellent choice for speedwork enthusiasts. It boasts a more breathable upper that provides a locked-in fit, enhancing comfort and stability during fast-paced runs. The shoe’s flexible toe-off and good ground connection contribute to its agility. Its 6.8 oz (M9) weight compared to the Kinvara 13 makes it a preferred option for those looking to maximize speed and efficiency.
However, potential drawbacks include its narrow forefoot and toebox, which may only accommodate some foot shapes comfortably, and some users find it less stable than its predecessor, the Kinvara 13. Despite these considerations, the Kinvara 14 is designed to serve as a versatile shoe suitable for lightweight daily training and even budget-friendly racing, thanks to its added cushioning and sleek design borrowed from Saucony’s top-tier models like the Endorphin Pro 3. It offers an elegant, firm underfoot experience that is responsive and enjoyable for runners focused on speed and agility.
Salomon Genesis
The Salomon Genesis, priced at $150 on Salomon’s website, stands out as the ultimate trail shoe for both seasoned mountain athletes and newcomers to trail running. Featuring a Contragrip outsole with deep, chevron-shaped 4.5mm lugs, it offers exceptional traction on rugged, loose terrain, ensuring stability and injury prevention. The shoe’s midsole provides a firm yet responsive feel, making it durable enough for blending road and trail running, with enhanced versatility thanks to reduced space between the outsole lugs, which improves performance on mixed surfaces.
Designed for rugged conditions, the Genesis includes a protective upper with a thick toe cap and durable Matryx knit construction, ensuring your feet remain safe and secure on the trail. It also features efficient drainage, allowing runners to tackle water crossings without discomfort confidently. With its grippy outsole, protective upper, and versatile midsole, the Salomon Genesis is a reliable choice for trail enthusiasts seeking performance and durability in challenging environments.
Conclusion:
The search for the ideal running shoe is evolving with a focus on performance, injury prevention, and comfort. Picking the right pair is crucial for runners, as it impacts their performance and the potential for injuries. The 10 Best Running Shoes for Men in 2024 guide highlights options like the plush cushioning of the Asics Novablast 4 for recovery runs, the stable comfort of the Brooks Ghost Max for daily training, and the versatile, lightweight design of the Hoka Clifton 9. For long-distance races, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 offers a high-stack midsole with a carbon plate, while trail runners can rely on the rugged durability of the Craft Pure Trail and Salomon Genesis.
