Top 5 Running Shoes of 2021
Finding a good running shoe can be the hardest part of getting into running. Here’s a look into some of the Top 5 Running Shoes of 2021 to help make things a little easier for your decision making.
#1 - New Balance 1500 T2 BOA - $129.99
The New Balance 1500 T2 Boa integrates Boa Fit System to provide adjustability and deliver a better fit throughout the entire shoe. This shoe has a quick response but remains supportive throughout your arch. This will give great support to anyone who may suffer from shin splints. The shoe’s outsole provides good traction on wet and dry surfaces as well as pretty solid off-road.
(Image credit: New Balance)
This shoe is great if you want to go fast without compromising weight. The toe box is said to be on the tighter-side, so may not be the best pick for wide-footed folks. It’s breathability and sleek design may make this shoe seem like it is strictly for the elite runner. However, this will get you going on anything from a 5K to a full marathon.
#2 - Brooks Ghost 12 - $130
The Brooks Ghost 12 provides a responsive yet soft feel for your runs.
(Image credit: Brooks)
Brooks has integrated what they refer to as a ‘Segmented Crash Pad’ that looks like a systematic scattering of cushions throughout the bottom of the shoe intended to provide an even cushion every step of the and smooth heel-to-toe transitions. This shoe also has a DNA loft midsole and 3D printed upper to add even more comfort to the shoe. It’s a great day to day runner and also an uber comfortable shoe to wear around in your everyday activities and life. It’s on the warmer side however, so might not be the best pick for peak hot summer days. These shoes also don’t need a ton of breaking in. Did we mention how comfortable they are in this comparison of top 5 running shoes of 2021?
#3 - On Cloudsurfer - $149.99
On Running keeps up with their reputation of making highly innovative footwear that delivers a great run experience in the Cloudsurfer.
(Image credit: On Running)
Their CloudTec® technology provides a soft pad for landing that will immediately deliver a powerful spring back into your next stride. This shoe is highly responsive yet comfortable and is great for an introductory/mid-level runner who is looking to keep things on the shorter distance side. The supportive mesh upper will provide a great fit while the insole gives you a good cushion to push through a 5-10k. The Cloudsurfer is a great neutral shoe for any runner looking for something dependable for road running.
#4 - Saucony Ride ISO 2 - $120
The Saucony Ride ISO 2 is a great shoe for runners who want to live a little more comfortably. This shoe offers a balance of cushion and fit that cannot be beat. Saucony built in a signature PWRFOAM midsole to provide this high level of comfort that will assist with the landing of your strides and absorb impact. Their EVERUN topsole helps to relieve pressure towards the top of the shoe.
(Image credit: Saucony)
The kicker of why the Ride ISO 2 is one of our top 5 running shoes of 2021 is the fit. The material is highly durable yet flexible. This will comfortably accommodate a variety of different feet sizes and shapes.
#5 - Altra Escalante 2 - $130
The Altra Escalante 2 is a very breathable, long lasting running shoe. The Escalante 2 will encourage a fast pace and a go-getter running attitude in your training. It will also help you to be well-equipped to meet your running goals. The Escalante’s stiffer midsole provides the speed you need to keep going. The lightweight knit upper keeps the shoe breathable in the hottest of conditions.
(Image credit: Altra)
Altra has added a new PU insole that provides a soft experience underfoot that will maintain the spring you want as feedback from the shoe. This is a new feature to the shoe’s predecessor.
Hope you get some good mileage out of your next pair of shoes from our take on the top 5 running shoes of 2021.
Need some advice on avoiding shin splints? See related article -