Best Running Shoes for Women in 2023 – CNET

Choosing a pair of running shoes is more involved than ordering a pair online or shopping at your local department store. You have to pick shoes based on what works for your needs, just as you do when you shop for walking shoes or weightlifting shoes. If you’ve decided to take up running this year, finding the best pair will depend on the type of activity you plan on using them for. Some running shoes are designed specifically for running on rugged trails, while others are created to perform best on a track or on the road. You’ll also need to decide whether you’ll be training for a race and running long distances or using the shoes for sprinting or casual runs.

Additionally it’s important to know your gait type. This can be assessed by a podiatrist or a shoe specialist at a local running shoe store. Knowing your gait type, and knowing if you have any foot or leg pain, will help you pick the right running shoes. The more informed you are, the easier it will be to narrow down the shoe that’s right for you

Regardless of your gait and foot type, we’ve gathered a list of the best running sneakers for women. There are plenty of options to choose from based on popular models on the market. Keep reading to find the best running shoes to fit your needs this year.

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REI

Simply put, if you prefer the woods to the road, these are the running shoes for you. With high arches and a lug sole that offers excellent traction and grip through snow, rain and mud, the Speedcross helps the wearer maintain a steady gait over all varieties of terrain (one reviewer attested to the fact that the shoe’s durability doesn’t inhibit their performance while running). 

The downside of a durable shoe that’s made to brave the elements is, unfortunately, a lack of breathability, although its antimicrobial footbed works to offset some foot odor.

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Hoka

The Hoka One One Bondi X is the upgraded version of its predecessor, the Hoka One One Bondi 7. This version stays loyal to the maximum cushioning provided by the former edition, but with a few improvements. The signature Hoka MetaRocker is extended in this version to amp up your speed and make your heel-to-toe transitions smoother. According to reviews, runners and walkers alike can appreciate the features on this shoe. Some reviewers shared that they have foot issues such as plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis and this shoe provided the comfort and support they were looking for.

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Altra

This shoe is designed with running and everyday wear in mind, so it makes sense that reviewers praise the Escalante for its comfortable fit — whether that’s for everyday wear or long runs. The flexible design allows your feet to flex for more comfort and still provides some stability.

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Hoka

This Hoka shoe is known as the brand’s endurance racer and is intended for racing and training runs. The Hoka One One Carbon X 2 features the brand’s signature Meta-Rocker, a specialized mid- and outsole design that provides a smooth, efficient ride. The cushioning on this shoe has a lower profile and lets you keep your foot closer to the ground, which provides a more efficient push-off. The midsole on this shoe has been upgraded to the ProFlyX, which is designed with a carbon plate surrounded by a softer midsole and firmer outsole, providing extra comfort and responsiveness during your run. Runners who enjoy this shoe have said it’s perfect for running long distances (even ultramarathon distances), provides the right amount of stability and is best for road running.

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What to look for when shopping for running shoes

We talked to running coach Holly Roser to gather all of the basic information you should know before shopping for the right shoe.

Special support or injuries: It’s important to consider the level of support your feet will need when you’re picking out a pair of running shoes. If you’ve ever been injured or have a collapsed arch, your needs will be different from those of other runners. You may need a stability shoe, since you’ll want a shoe that can support your ankles and joints more. “Stability shoes will help give your ankle the most support possible. This will help reduce some of the stress on your joints caused by running, and allow you to run longer in the correct foot position,” Roser says. 

Lightweight or neutral shoes: “If you are injury-free and are free of arch issues, I suggest a lightweight running shoe, referred to as a ‘neutral’ shoe. These feel great on your feet, very light with medium support. These are excellent for sprints or any asphalt or concrete run,” Roser says.

Outdoor and trail running: Where you run will determine how much traction you’ll want your shoes to have. “If you primarily run on dirt trails, invest in a pair of running shoes meant for dirt or gravel. These are referred to as ‘trail-running shoes,’ [and] will help your traction as you run to avoid slipping and falling,” Roser says.

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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.