After evaluating 15 pairs of highly rated women's running shoes over five months, the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper emerged as the top pick for road running, while the Asics Novablast 5 was chosen as the best for beginners. The testing, conducted by a lifelong athlete and outdoor writer, covered cushioning, weight, fit, breathability, and performance on various surfaces.
Top Picks for Road and Trail
The On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, priced at $220, is described as a "super trainer" with thick cushioning for daily training and tempo runs. It offers a secure fit, excellent impact absorption, and a responsive ride, thanks to On's CloudTec cushioning system with Helion HF hyper foam. The shoe weighs 7.5oz, has a 6mm drop, and is made for roads.
The Asics Novablast 5, at $130, is a lightweight, bouncy model with increased cushioning. It handled both pavement and mellow gravel trails easily, providing a springy ride and pain-free feet. It weighs 7.9oz, has an 8mm drop, and is also made for roads. For those seeking an affordable and comfortable option, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL, ranging from $98 to $150, offers thick, forgiving cushioning and breathability, though the fit may allow some sliding.
Versatile and Cushioned Options
The Scarpa Golden Gate LT, at $149, is a versatile "town-to-trail" shoe that grips pavement and dirt equally well. It is stiff enough for rocky surfaces yet flexible for good groundfeel, though the forefoot narrows on runs longer than 3 miles. The Hoka Skyflow, now $112 (originally $160), offers the brand's signature plush cushioning with a responsive, rockered shape, ideal for daily training. It requires little break-in and provides a soft, flowy ride, though it is on the heavier side.
The Saucony Women's Endorphin Azura, at $150, features SpeedRoll technology for forward propulsion and a rockered sole, helping maintain above-average paces. It is comfortable out of the box with ample toe-box room, though the tongue is thin and may slide. For trail racing, the Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail, at $260, offers rocket-like speed thanks to a full-length carbon plate and excellent traction from Vibram Megagrip lugs, but the forefoot stiffness can cause aching.
Specialized Picks and Testing Process
The Brooks Glycerin 23, at $175, is recommended for treadmill running, providing plush landings, powerful toe-offs, and a grippy outsole. It has a roomy toe-box but the thick upper can make feet heat up. The La Sportiva Prodigio Pro, at $225, is the top choice for long-distance trail running, offering a softer, more flexible ride without a carbon plate, and excellent traction from sticky directional lugs. It narrows in the middle and heel, which may not suit wide feet.
Other shoes tested included the Hoka Stinson 7 ($140), Altra Experience Flow 3 ($145), Asics Gel-Kayano 32 ($125), and Saucony Triumph 23 ($100-$170), which were liked but not chosen as winners. The Brooks Ghost 18 ($150) and New Balance 1080 V15 ($170) were disliked for lack of comfort and support. The tester, a freelance writer in Boulder, Colorado, ran in each pair for a week, taking notes on fit, comfort, ride, and breathability. After testing, the shoes were donated, except for the On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper and Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail, which were kept for long-term durability testing.
How to Choose the Right Running Shoes
Running shoes typically last 300 to 500 miles. Signs of wear include worn tread, frayed uppers, or foot pain. A proper fit should securely hold the feet without causing numbness. Consider the surfaces you run on: trail shoes have lugged outsoles and durable uppers, while road shoes are smoother and lighter. Beginners should visit a running shoe store for professional fitting, and ultimately, comfort should be the primary factor in choosing a shoe.
