We’ve researched and tested hundreds of sneakers—everything from the best shoes for relieving back pain to the best shoes for CrossFit. But we were curious: With so many pairs on the market, which sneakers reign supreme? We set out to find shoes that not only look great, but also feel comfortable all day long. After all, buying the best sneakers requires investing in ones with the right cushioning and support for your feet.
After consulting experts and creating a list of our favorite sneakers across dozens of categories, we tested 24 expert-approved pairs from top brands. We walked and ran on the treadmill or completed a short circuit workout to see how the shoes felt. We even took a bandsaw and sliced each shoe in half so that we could compare their internal structures side by side. Then, we compared the sneakers' key features and evaluated them based on fit, cushioning, comfort, responsiveness, stability, blister protection, and value to create our final list of recommendations.
What Is a Sneaker’s Drop?
A sneaker’s drop—also called pitch—is the height difference between the forefoot and heel, says Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic. The sneakers on our list have drops ranging from four to 12 millimeters. Studies have found that running in sneakers with a low drop (six millimeters or less) is better for runners with weak ankles, but can be risky for those with weak knees.
Top Picks
Best Overall
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Great support for flat feet
Wide toe box
May cause blisters on long runs
Key Specs
Type: Road running Sizes: 7 to 15 Materials: Recycled plastic bottle upper, foam cushioning, rubber outsole Weight: 10.2 ounces Drop: 12 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
Best if you need superior stability for your feet, ankles, or knees. They're also ideal for people with flat feet or plantar fasciitis.
Why We Love Them
Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoe takes our best men's overall spot. Designed to stabilize not just your feet, but also your ankles and knees, these APMA Seal of Acceptance winners are both comfortable and stylish.
We noticed a difference right after trying the Adrenaline GTS 22 on. From their spacious toe box to their comfortable midsoles, they cradled our feet with each step. While working out, we loved the side supports, which stabilized our feet and helped improve our balance during circuit workouts. Like Hoka’s Clifton 8, these sneakers also have soft padding that helps propel your feet forward while you walk or run—we even noticed that our box jumps were higher.
During testing, we found that the mesh upper (which is partially made from recycled plastic bottles) helped prevent sweaty feet and unpleasant odors. While they’re designed for road running, Tulpule notes that the Adrenaline GTS 22s are her favorite walking shoes for their excellent cushioning and support, which helps prevent her plantar fasciitis symptoms from returning. We also like that they’re available in four widths and lots of different color combinations.
Also available in women's sizes at Brooks, Amazon, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- We noted that the lining caused some friction, which may lead to blisters on long runs.
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The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 feels supportive and springy during workouts with responsive padding. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 APMA winners work well for those with flat feet or plantar fasciitis. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Adrenaline GTS 22 shoes are easy to slip on with long, slightly textured laces for comfort. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Brooks Adrenaline sneaker is available in four widths and has a wider toe box. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 has grippy rubber outsoles for indoor and outdoor terrain. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Adrenaline GTS 22 helps improve balance during circuit workouts with excellent side supports. Credit: Verywell Fit -
We cut through the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 to comprehensively evaluate its components and quality. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These Brooks shoes cradle feet with spacious toe boxes and comfortable midsole support. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Walking
Ryka Women's Devotion Plus 4 Walking Shoe
Lightweight
Flexible midsole
Solid traction
Not as stable
Key Specs
Type: Walking Sizes: 5 to 12 Materials: Mesh upper, partially recycled lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 7.4 ounces Drop: 11 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who They're For
Best for people who want a walking shoe with a flexible midsole. We also recommend them if you have arthritis in your big toes or bunions.
Why We Love Them
Rykä’s Devotion Plus 4 is our favorite walking shoe because its flexible midsole bends at the arch to offer gentle support while you walk. (Running shoes have stiffer arches and are more flexible under the ball of your foot to better protect your joints when your feet come into contact with hard surfaces, says Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in New York City.)
When we slipped these on, we liked that they contoured to the curves of our feet for a locked-in feel. We also noticed that the rubber outsole had good traction while we walked on the treadmill. And after cutting these sneakers open, we were impressed by all of the layers of cushy foam inside. Because these shoes are stiffer at the toes, Valencia adds that they’ll help provide relief if you have arthritis in your big toe. Anyone with bunions will also appreciate the Devotion Plus 4’s wide toe box.
Potential Flaws
- The midsole is softer than the others we tested, resulting in a less stable sneaker that isn't suited for long walks on rough terrain. For a more stable sneaker, we recommend our top men’s pick, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22.
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The Devotion Plus 4 feels super lightweight and has a cushioned foam midsole for walking comfort. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Devotion Plus 4 contours to foot curves for a locked-in feel with good rubber outsole traction. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This Ryka shoe's flexible midsole bends at the arch to offer gentle support while you walk. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The lightweight Devotion Plus 4 has a wide toe box and layers of cushy foam. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Wide Feet
Nike Women's Pegasus 39
Reflective details
Good traction
Thick, comfortable cushioning
Not for those with Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis
Not as responsive
Key Specs
Type: Road running Sizes: 5 to 12 Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 9.6 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They're For
Best for runners with wide feet, especially if you often go running in the dark.
Why We Love Them
If you’re a runner with wide feet, we recommend Nike’s Pegasus 39. During testing, our editor noted that these shoes run large, making them ideal for runners who want plenty of space in the toe box. Plus, the tongue is a separate piece from the rest of the upper, which creates even more room for your feet. We also like the thick padding, which isn't too squishy but still feels plush underfoot.
A mesh upper encourages airflow to keep your feet cool, while a padded tongue and collar enhance this sneaker’s comfort. We noticed that the Pegasus has a highly textured outsole with good traction—plus reflective details, to keep you visible while running at dusk or dawn. If you don’t need an overly bouncy midsole, we think the Pegasus is a reliable choice for daily walks and runs.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Nike.
Potential Flaws
- According to Valencia, these sneakers don’t have the right support for wearers with Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
- They’re also not as responsive as other shoes we tested, meaning they don’t feel as springy.
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This Pegasus 39 runs large, making it ideal for runners who want plenty of toe box space. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This Nike shoe has a textured outsole with good traction plus reflective details for visibility. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Pegasus 39 sneaker has a very grippy, textured rubber outsole for outdoor terrain use. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These Pegasus 39 shoes have thick padding that isn't too squishy but still feels plush underfoot. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Nike Women's Pegasus 39 sneaker has super thick cushioning plus a padded tongue and collar. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Narrow Feet
Asics Gel-Excite 9
Budget-friendly
Lightweight
Ideal for casual runners
Lacks stability
Key Specs
Type: Road running Sizes: 5 to 12 Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 7.7 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They're For
Best for casual runners with neutral arches and narrow feet.
Why We Love Them
With a toe box that’s true to size and gentle support for neutral arches, Asics’ Gel-Excite 9 is our top pick for runners with narrow feet. We loved how comfortable they were from the minute we slipped them on, and how they stayed secure no matter what incline level we walked on or how fast we ran.
Weighing less than 8 ounces each, we also noticed these sneakers’ barely-there feel right away, despite their well-cushioned midsole. We also like that you get an impressive array of features in a sneaker that’s almost half the price of our top women’s pick, Hoka’s Clifton 8. Another bonus: The lower upfront cost makes these sneakers a good choice for casual or beginner runners looking for something that’s easy to wear.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Asics.
Potential Flaws
- While the Gel-Excite 9 is designed to support runners with neutral feet, it may not have enough stability for runners who over- or underpronate.
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This Asics shoe has a textured, grippy rubber outsole that provides great treadmill traction. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This sleek Asics sneaker feels lightweight and has a soft, breathable mesh upper for cool feet. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These comfy Gel-Excite 9 shoes work well for beginner runners or everyday wear. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Gel-Excite 9 provides well-cushioned midsole support despite its super lightweight construction. Credit: Verywell Fit -
Weighing less than 8 ounces each, the Gel-Excite 9 has a barely-there feel during workouts. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These Asics shoes offer impressive features at almost half the price of other top picks. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These supportive Gel-Excite 9 sneakers feel comfortable right away and adjust for secure fit. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Asics Gel-Excite 9 is a budget-friendly sneaker that we cut down the middle for evaluation. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Hoka Bondi 8
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Great shock absorption
Breathable mesh upper
Not as responsive
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Type: Running, walking Sizes: 5 to 12 Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 8.9 ounces Drop: 4 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for walkers or runners with plantar fasciitis, especially if you also have arthritis in your big toes.
Why We Love Them
Plantar fasciitis is no match for Hoka’s Bondi 8. The midsole has the thickest, softest cushioning Hoka has to offer—plus extra padding in the heel for added comfort and blister protection. These design features help the Bondi 8 absorb shock well and reduce the load on your plantar fascia, Valencia says. As we walked on the treadmill, we also noticed that the Bondi 8’s mesh upper helped circulate air to keep our feet cool and dry.
We loved the wide toe box and secure fit, which felt stable even on steep inclines. A durable rubber outsole and heel pull tabs make these shoes as practical as they are supportive. We also like that this sneaker doesn’t bend in half easily, which makes it a great choice for anyone with arthritis in their big toe. And the APMA Seal of Acceptance means you can be confident they’ll provide plenty of relief.
Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hoka, and REI.
Potential Flaws
- With so much thick, stiff foam, this pair isn’t as responsive as others we tested, like Hoka's Clifton 8.
- They’re also some of the most expensive sneakers on our list, although we feel their thoughtful, high-tech construction is worth it.
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The Hoka Bondi 8 provides plenty of soft cushioning, including extra in the heel. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Hoka Bondi 8's breathable mesh upper allows air to circulate, preventing hot, sweaty feet. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This APMA-approved Hoka sneaker feels plush but also somewhat heavier compared to others. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Hoka Bondi 8 sneaker was thoroughly evaluated and cut down the middle to check construction. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Bondi 8 features a mesh upper, foam midsole, and rubber outsole construction. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Flat Feet
ASICS Women's GT-2000 10 Running Shoes
Ideal for new runners and overpronators
Good stability
Breathable knit upper
Not as breathable as other options
Key Specs
Type: Road running Sizes: 5 to 13 Materials: Knit upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 8.4 ounces Drop: 8 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They're For
Best for new runners who overpronate.
Why We Love Them
Flat feet and overpronation are often related. Together, these conditions can affect your entire lower body’s range of motion, including your running mechanics. For a sneaker that gently corrects both at the same time, we recommend Asics’ GT-2000 10 Running Shoes. The inside of each shoe has additional support to prevent your arch from collapsing inward, improving your stance and stride.
Slicing into the sneaker confirmed the brand’s claims—we could easily see how the foam midsole climbed up the shoe’s inner wall, to better align your feet. During testing, this pair stood out for its comfortable, stable fit. The midsole combines foam and gel to offer a fairly responsive ride with good shock absorption. While we ran on the treadmill, we loved how breathable the upper was, and the soft lining didn’t create any irritation, hot spots, or blisters. We also think this sneaker is a great investment for new runners since it’s both sturdy and stylish.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Asics.
Potential Flaws
- This shoe doesn’t have any mesh (like many of our other top picks do). But we still found that it provides decent airflow to keep our feet cool and dry.
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This stylish GT-2000 10 sneaker has a textured rubber outsole for indoor and outdoor running. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This ASICS shoe feels comfortable and stable while running on the treadmill for overpronators. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These ASICS shoes are easy to slip on and adjust, keeping feet cool with decent airflow. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The ASICS Women's GT-2000 10 has foam and gel midsoles plus a padded tongue for comfort. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The GT-2000 10 has added inside support to prevent your arch from collapsing inward during runs. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best Lightweight
On Running Cloud X 3
Molded pads in the midsole
Stylish design
Snug, secure fit
Not as responsive as other options
Molded pads may be uncomfortable
Key Specs
Type: Running Sizes: 5 to 11 Materials: Mesh upper, foam and rubber outsole Weight: 7 ounces Drop: 6 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for anyone who wants a lightweight sneaker that also provides top-notch cushioning.
Why We Love Them
Weighing just 7 ounces, we were shocked to find that one of the lightest shoes we tested felt so supportive, stable, and cushioned while we ran. On Running’s Cloud X Running Shoe has ultra-thin midsoles—the bright turquoise and orange layers were easy to spot when we cut them open. We loved how the paper-thin foam still felt impressively soft and squishy underfoot.
Unlike all of the other sneakers on our list, these have additional molded pads in the midsole, underneath the ball of the foot. This feature provides extra cushioning where it’s needed the most, which results in a lighter shoe that isn’t as bulky as our New Balance or Hoka picks are. The Cloud X’s close fit also provided a locked-in feel as we ran on the treadmill. Plus, we like the shoe’s stylish, low-profile design, which comes in a range of bright and neutral color combinations.
Potential Flaws
- Because the midsole is so thin, this sneaker isn’t as responsive as some others we tested.
- The molded cushioning may also take time to get used to: Once we got over feeling like there was something stuck in the shoe, we appreciated the targeted padding.
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Thanks to its barely-there weight, the On Running Cloud X 3 shoe is easy to run in but feels secure. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This ultra-lightweight On Running shoe has a textured foam and rubber outsole that provides grip. Credit: Verywell Fit -
While this On Running shoe offers great cushioning, some may not like how the molded pad feels. Credit: Verywell Fit -
We sliced this stylish On Running shoe right down the middle to examine its construction. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This On Running shoe has additional molded pads in the midsole underneath the ball of foot. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Training
Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoes
Great traction
Stable heel protects your knees
Thick cushioning is ideal for jumping
Laces may be too short and slippery
Key Specs
Type: Training Sizes: 6.5 to 14 Materials: Textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Weight: Not listed Drop: Not listed Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who They're For
Best for anyone who wants a versatile sneaker that can do everything from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to plyometrics.
Why We Love Them
No matter how you like to train, Reebok’s Nano X2 Training Shoes support your feet, ankles, and knees, so you can focus on your workout (not your shoes). When we tried these on, we were pleasantly surprised by their wide toe box and snug heel. Dense foam cushioning helped us move through box jumps and squats without feeling any pain in our knees. After slicing these shoes open, we found multiple layers of padding, all with different thicknesses to help absorb shock.
We also found that the heels are flat to promote proper weightlifting form, which took the stress off of our lower back. While there was still enough room in these sneakers for our feet to move around, we noticed the solid stability that makes this shoe a good choice for HIIT, cardio, plyometrics, and more. And the rubber outsole has deep lugs that offer great traction on all kinds of floors.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- Some wearers have found that the laces are shorter and a little slippery, meaning they may not stay tied very well.
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During various exercises, these Reebok Nano X2 shoes provide excellent support to feet and ankles. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This Reebok shoe's textile upper feels high-quality, but the laces tend to come undone often. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These durable Nano X2 shoes feel stable and have grippy rubber outsoles for indoor and outdoor use. Credit: Verywell Fit -
This versatile Reebok shoe can handle box jumps with ease, thanks to its thick cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoe has several layers of padding, making it incredibly comfortable. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best Cushioned
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
Reflective details
Removable insoles
Thick, solid foam padding
May be too bulky for some
Key Specs
Type: Running Sizes: 5 to 13 Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole Weight: 8.4 ounces Drop: 4 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
With extra cushioning and room for orthotics, these are best for runners with wide feet.
Why We Love Them
If you’re searching for a shoe that’s comfortable, without high-tech features you don’t need, we highly recommend New Balance’s Fresh Foam X More v4. These sneakers have 1.5 inches of pure foam padding, uninterrupted by gel or other kinds of support. When we tried them on, we couldn’t believe how comfortable they were—and after we cut them open, the padding and support were clear.
As we ran on the treadmill, we noticed that these sneakers felt light and springy. We enjoyed how responsive the midsoles were, and we also like that the insoles are removable, in case you need to add your own for more arch support. Wearers with wide feet will appreciate the roomy fit and three available widths. The breathable mesh upper has reflective details, so you’ll stay visible to other pedestrians and motorists in low-light conditions.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- Similar to Hoka’s Bondi 8 and Clifton 8, the extra-thick soles may look and feel too bulky for some.
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These Fresh Foam X More v4 sneakers felt light and springy as we ran on the treadmill. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The New Balance shoe has reflective details so you'll stay visible in low-light conditions. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These well-made New Balance shoes feel very lightweight and bouncy with removable insoles. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 is available in three widths and has a wider platform. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 sneaker has a thick, 1.5-inch layer of foam padding. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Trail Runs
Brooks Glycerin GTS 20
Good shock absorption
Good ankle support
Solid and stable
Upper may not be as durable
Key Specs
Type: Trail and road running, walking Sizes: 7 to 15 Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, manmade outsole Weight: 10.1 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for running on dirt, gravel, and other uneven terrain.
Why We Love Them
When it comes to trail running, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe is our top pick. We loved how comfortable these sneakers were. The mesh upper helped our feet stay cool and dry, while the shoes’ construction kept our feet firmly in place—even after 20 minutes of running.
The springy midsole is packed with the most cushioning Brooks offers in a shoe, providing good energy return. We also weren’t expecting these shoes to feel so light on our feet, based on how stable they are. And we noticed additional padding around the ankle, which helped us feel secure in our footing on the treadmill.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks.
Potential Flaws
- Trail runners should be prepared to replace these shoes more often, as water and debris may cause the uppers to wear quickly.
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The Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 offers superior comfort for running on uneven surfaces. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These Brooks sneakers were comfortable, with the mesh upper helping feet stay cool and dry. Credit: Verywell Fit -
We weren't expecting these Glycerin GTS 20 shoes to feel so light based on how stable they are. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Glycerin GTS 20 helps runners feel secure in their footing on dirt, gravel, and rough terrain. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 has additional padding around the ankle for a secure, comfortable feel. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Glycerin GTS 20's construction kept our feet firmly in place even after 20 minutes of running. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe is our top pick for trail running on uneven terrain. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The springy Brooks midsole is packed with the most cushioning Brooks offers in a shoe design. Credit: Verywell Fit
Most Supportive
New Balance 990v5
Available in six widths
Removable insoles
Breathable lining
Heavy and bulky
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Type: Walking, training Sizes: 7 to 16 Materials: Leather, suede, and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Weight: 14 ounces Drop: 12 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for walkers and gym-goers who want plenty of support, soft padding, and removable insoles.
Why We Love Them
While all of the sneakers on our list are designed to support your feet, New Balance’s 990v5 Running Shoe is our favorite for non-runners who need something stable underfoot. For walking and training, you need a shoe that’s solid and secure. The 990v5s impressed us right away in these areas, with a close, comfortable fit and soft padding in the removable insoles.
Additional foam around the collar helps support your ankles, while a breathable lining prevents sweat from building up throughout the day. Unlike all other pairs on our list, the 990v5s have a suede and mesh upper in a design that looks more like a street shoe than a walking sneaker. Plus, they’re available in six widths—so if you’ve had issues with blisters or narrow toe boxes in the past, we recommend giving these a try.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- All of the support makes these sneakers heavier and bulkier than most others we tested.
- They’re also one of the most expensive shoes on our list, although we think you get what you pay for in terms of superior stability and durability.
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These 990v5 shoes have a solid weight, so may not work for users who prefer a lightweight sneaker. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These New Balance shoes have a suede and mesh upper design that looks more like a street shoe. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These supportive New Balance sneakers feel comfortable, with super long laces for secure tying. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These versatile New Balance shoes work well for gym workouts and provide support for box jumps. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The New Balance 990v5 shoe was sliced in half to see if it met our high standards for quality. Credit: Verywell Fit -
These New Balance shoes come in six width options and have removable insoles. Credit: Verywell Fit
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Verywell Fit
How We Tested the Best Sneakers
To find the best sneakers, we've tested 24 pairs from popular, trusted fitness brands. To test these shoes, we pay attention to how they fit and whether our feet slide around. Then, depending on the type of shoe, we walk or run on the treadmill at varying incline levels or complete a circuit workout. We move through sets of step-ups, box jumps, and calf raises on a plyometric box. Then, we grab a set of weights to complete dumbbell incline rows, dumbbell step-ups, and weighted squats.
Verywell Fit
Carpenter Lory Henning used a bandsaw to cut each shoe in half. Using Valencia’s expert guidance, we examined the internal construction of each shoe, noting how much padding there was in the midsole. We used these insights to tailor our recommendations for each pair of sneakers.
Verywell Fit
After the testing is complete, we evaluate each pair of sneakers based on the following criteria:
- Fit: Do the shoes fit correctly? We check to make sure there's a thumb’s width of space between our longest toe and the front of the shoe. We also look for a snug fit around our heel and midfoot. As we walk around, we pay attention to whether our heels slip out of the shoes. These details help us determine whether the shoe runs true to size, narrow, or wide.
- Cushioning: During testing, we look for sneakers with ample cushioning. We note how they feel when our feet hit the ground—is the midsole pillow-like or firm? We also consider how well the shoe absorbs shock and whether it takes any pressure off of our joints.
- Comfort: A lot goes into a shoe's comfort. Is the upper breathable, or do our feet feel hot? Do we notice any irritation, hot spots, or blisters after the test? Are there any irritating seams? If we experience any soreness due to the shoe's construction or arch support, we note that, too.
- Responsiveness: The ideal sneakers feel bouncy and springy underfoot. During testing, we look for sneakers that help propel our feet quickly and efficiently through the entire footstrike cycle. Do we feel an additional push forward while we walk, run, or train?
- Stability: As we wear each shoe, we note how our knees and ankles feel. Does the shoe help us feel stable and supported? If we over- or underpronate, does the shoe's arch support help gently realign our feet?
- Blister Protection: For sneakers to protect against blisters, they need to be breathable and fit correctly. During testing, we note whether the shoes allow for good airflow. Do our feet still feel cool and dry by the end of the test?
- Value: To determine a sneaker's value, we don't check its price until the end of the testing period (after we've evaluated it in all other categories). Based on its performance, do we think the shoe is priced fairly? Or would we wait to buy it until it goes on sale?
Verywell Fit
Our Experts
We spoke to experts often while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Valencia and Henning, helped us create an effective strategy for testing the best sneakers. Others, like Tulpule, explained how to shop for sneakers based on your foot shape and arch type. We choose products independently, although we use input from experts to influence our choices.
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in New York City
- Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic
- Lory Henning, a carpenter
Why Trust Verywell Fit
With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. An overpronator who needs arch support in her sneakers, she looks for pairs with thick cushioning that are comfortable to wear all day long. She tested On Running’s Cloud X sneaker for this story, which is now her favorite shoe for walking on the treadmill, running errands, and more. Sarah also looked over the test results to help compile our top picks.
