Digging for a new pair of running shoes is one of the best excuses to commit yourself to fitness. Still, it is not possible if your closet is full of crabby-looking sneakers that are sulking in one corner and are in desperate need of an upgrade. New running shoes means a renewed sense of motivation to stay fit, whether you want to run a whole marathon or just jog a few kilometers.
If you are one of those women who are tired of contemplating life and need a change, now is probably the best time to invest some time and money in getting a great pair of running shoes. Whether you are a fitness and health influencer or a pro runner, this guide will enlighten you on the best running shoes for women to consider on your next shopping spree.
5 Best Running Shoes for Women
The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests that it is essential to replace your shoes every 6-8 months, regardless of running or walking. Moving further, here are some of our best picks for women's running shoes that accommodate various types of runs and serve the majority of female runners.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 has been one of the best updates in Nike's line of long-run trainers. Nike has made subtle enhancements on an all-rounder trainer that proved to be a star seller. The new model includes more women-specific elements for a better feminine look and feel.
In this new upgrade, the old Cushlon foam midsole has been replaced with a fresh elastic React foam midsole. Additionally, you can find a Zoom air unit that creates an air pocket around the midsole.
According to Nike, the air unit is twice the width of previous generations of Pegasus Zoom air units. Even though it has a shorter air unit, but the added thickness creates more rebound. The shoe contains 2mm additional foam in comparison to its previous model, the Pegasus 36.
This new model fulfills a pleasant spot that the majority of women trainers aspire. In short, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is responsive, lightweight, comfortable, and swift.
Pros
- It has a thicker midsole with Reach foam that offers unlimited cushioning.
- A 2x wider forefoot air unit is introduced to deliver a springy toe-off.
Cons
- The tall height causes some instability.
Brooks Ghost 13
The Brooks Ghost 13 is an all-time favorite running shoe for women who like to run and are mad about running marathons. The Ghost trainers have always offered the smoothest and softest ride that lets you run for miles.
This edition raised the bar and took these trainers up a notch by spreading the DNA Loft over the entire midsole length. With this change, women can feel the added softness in the forefoot areas. This modification also enables the landing to toe-downshift more naturally.
Many users appreciated the lightweight support from the 3D printed upper that the previous model, Ghost 12, offered. Still, some users suggested for more breathability, to which Brooks responded with its new Brooks 13.
Now you can find 13 switches to a novel air mesh for enhanced exposure to air. From head to toe, these running shoes offer excellent cushioning without getting mushy. The landing is soft, and you can hardly feel the hard and flat surfaces underneath while running.
Pros
- It is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- It is spacious and can cater to different foot shapes and sizes.
- It offers a smoother ride compared to its predecessor.
- It has a softer cushioning in the forefoot.
Cons
- The high drop can be a bit problematic for some female runners.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10
1080 has stood as one of New Balance's smartest trainers, but the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10 has come out to be even more responsive, lightweight, and springy. This new version is a modified and enhanced version of 1080 that went under heavy manufacturing process and now incorporates a new upper and a Fresh Foam X midsole.
In comparison to 1080, it is smoother, more lightweight and flexible, and fully-cushioned. The softer sole does not feel stiff because of its curved design, particularly under the forefoot. The upper incorporates an engineered knit material that provides elasticity over the toes and sturdy sides for a more comfortable and secure fit.
These trainers have undergone extensive redesigning to the extent that every part has emerged even better. This premium-grade and optimal cushioned trainer is ideal for women who desire rapid speed and a forceful stance. The unique upper generates accurate areas for stretch and support.
Pros
- It is softer than the other New Balance 1080 models.
- It is quite fast despite being a heavy shoe.
Cons
- A few users suggested that the collar should have had more padding.
Altra Escalante 2
Altra Escalante 2 is an upgraded version of the ultra-swift and receptive Escalante that now includes increased support and cushioning. Its midsole has a high-rebound that is firm for great speed work but, at the same time, comfortable for long-running sessions.
Its low drop incorporates increased speed, lightness, and efficiency on the feet. The second version of Escalante is a tad narrow compared to the 1.5. Still, it features an elastic flat knit upper material and a wide toe box.
This toe box maximizes comfort, which is why the Escalante 2 is amongst the best women's running shoes. This ultimately pleases women who are accustomed to a comfortable and spacious fit.
The female version of Altra Escalante has a last that considers the user's slender heel, elongated arch, and higher instep.
Pros
- It has a stiffer midsole that fosters a quick and snappy run.
- The knit upper material is lightweight and offers more perforations for better breathing.
Cons
- The women's version is a little large.
Asics Gel-Kayano 27
The Gel-Kayano series has been in sync with stability, and the novel Asic's Gel-Kayano 27 is no less. This particular model enhances the performance of these perennial favorite shoes on a whole new level. It is incorporated with the Dynamic Duomax technology on the medial side and outer heel counterparts so that women can benefit from a significant amount of support.
Moreover, it secures the feet such that all discomfort and pain will be alleviated during running. The midsole further assimilates a gender-specific Space Trusstic technology. With this, the slender part of the sole will form a connection with the heel and forefoot areas.
Even though Space Trusstic technology has attempted to maintain less weight, these trainers are not relatively light. This is mainly because of the few elements that define the Gel-Kayano series. These include additional features for making the shoe stable, such as extra padding and an outer heel counter.
However, you can rest assured that you can run wearing a pair of Asics Gel-Kayano 27 without any danger of being injured.
Pros
- The Flyte Foam is better than ever.
- It has a stiff heel counter.
- Space Trusstic technology is gender-specific.
Cons
- It is slightly heavy.
In Conclusion
The "best" running shoes for you might not necessarily be the best for another woman. Quite obviously, various preferences, features, and qualities enable you to decide which running shoes will be best for you. These shoes fit the most relevant criteria that most women look for, such as comfort and task-worthy.
They provide an accurate fit and are available in a wide range of sizes. Hence, these running shoes are not meant to be perfect just for you but entail some of the best picks that will suit most women's needs and preferences.
