Best running shoes: the top running trainers men, women and children

Investing in the best running shoes is a great idea if you're looking to improve performance and prevent injury

the best running shoes: runner in running shoes against pink wall
(Image credit: Getty Images)

On the hunt for the best running shoes? One good thing that's come from increased social distancing is that there's been a significant surge in runners getting out and getting active during their government approved hour of exercise (ironic, innit?).

Whether you're a first time runner enjoying apps such as Couch to 5K, you're getting back into running after a break from the sport, or you're looking to progress from a social runner to taking on something a little more serious like a marathon, or half marathon, the best running trainers have the power to completely transform your performance and, more importantly, protect you from unnecessary injuries.

Below you'll find our top picks for men, women and kids. Then, when you're done, browse more of the best gym equipment. We're also pulling together a range of ideas and activities to keep you entertained during the Coronavirus over on our no place like home hub.

Best running shoes

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The best running shoes if you're a complete beginner are definitely the Nike Reactive Infinity Run running trainers. They provide plenty of support to help prevent injury, while still being super comfortable.

If you're a more seasoned runner, you may find the Nike Reactive Infinity Runs a little too cushioned. In which case, the Hoka One One Carbon X running trainers may be a better options. 

Keep scrolling to find full product reviews and to discover the best deals on our top-rated running shoes.

best running trainers: Nike Reactive Infinity Run

(Image credit: Nike)

1. Nike Reactive Infinity Run

The best running trainers for new runners

Specifications

Weight: 291g approx. (Men's size 9)
Offset: 9mm (Forefoot: 24mm, Heel: 33mm)
Colours : Black/Laser Orange/White/University Blue
Available for men and women?: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Offer plenty of support to prevent injury
+
Comfortable fit thanks to 

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite expensive for beginners
-
May be too cushioned for some 

New to running? The Nike Reactive Infinity Run running trainers are more than worth the investment. Here's everything you need to know:

Plenty of support

Not only do they provide plenty of support which will (hopefully) protect you from injury, the additional cushioning shouldn't slow you down too much.

Comfortable fit

Thanks to their flyknit design, these trainers are also super comfortable with wearers suggesting that they don't chafe the ankles too much.

Range of styles available

Okay so running trainers will never be the most attractive footwear, but the Nike Reactive Infinity Runs aren't too unattractive an option. Choose from a range of colour ways to suit your style.

best running trainers: Hoka One One X running trainers

(Image credit: Hoka One One)

2. Hoka One One Carbon X

The best all-round running trainers

Specifications

Weight: 204g approx.
Offset: 4mm
Colours : White/Dresden Blue, Black/Nimbus Cloud, Plen Air/Poppy Red, Caribbean Sea/White, Cloud/Lantana
Available for men and women?: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Offer plenty of support to prevent injury
+
Comfortable fit thanks to 

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite expensive for beginners
-
May be too cushioned for some 

If you're slightly more of a seasoned runner, you may prefer the Hoka One One Carbon X trainers. Here's everything you need to know:

Carbon fibre technology

Thanks to a built in carbon fibre plate, these running trainers can help achieve a smooth running style.

Plenty of support

Plus, on account of the built-in cushioning that Hoka One One are renowned for, they also provide plenty of support for the ankles.

Perfect for a variety of uses

Whether you run daily, enjoy interval training, want to go on long runs or short runs, these running trainers are an all rounder capable of supporting your feet and ankles as you need.

Range of styles available

Choose from a variety of styles, whether your preference is for something super simple – like the white finish above – or you'd prefer something a little more out there.

best running trainers: adidas ultraboost 19 trainers

(Image credit: Adidas)

3. Adidas Ultraboost 19

The best lightweight running trainers

Specifications

Weight: 310 g approx. (size UK 8.5)
Offset: 10 mm (heel: 29 mm / forefoot: 19 mm)
Colours : Eight colour ways available
Available for men and women?: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Often on sale
+
Super lightweight design is great for beginners
+
Flyknit is super comfortable
+
Various stylish designs available

Reasons to avoid

-
May not offer enough support for some

Next up in our list are the Adidas Ultraboost 19 running trainers, which are much more lightweight than the options above. Here's everything you need to know:

Lightweight design

One of the major selling points of these running trainers are their lightweight design. Not only at they flyknit, which wraps comfortably around the foot without feeling too bulky, they also feature a lightweight sole which won't weigh you down as your run.

Suitable for daily use

If you enjoy getting out for a run everyday, the Adidas Ultraboost 19 are a great option that allows you to run in a variety of locations and conditions.

Stylish design

Much like the trainers above, the Adidas Ultraboost 19 are also available in a variety of finishes. That said, this range are certainly more stylish than some of the running shoes we've seen around.

the best running shoes: new balance

(Image credit: New Balance)

4. New Balance 1080 v8

The best running shoes for cushioned support

Specifications

Offset: 4 mm
Colours : Three colour ways available
Available for men and women?: Yes

Reasons to buy

+
Super supportive with plenty of cushioning
+
Ultra heel adapts to suit your foot
+
Available in a variety of bright colours

Reasons to avoid

-
This level of cushioning may be too much for some

Another great option for those who are new to running and may be in search of cushioned and supportive running trainers are the New Balance 1080 V8 running trainers. Here's everything you need to know:

Plenty of cushioning

If you're in need of plenty of support for your feet and ankles, the New Balance 1080 v8 running trainers have got you covered with their foam design.

Adapt to fit your feet

It doesn't take a genius to figure out that everyone's feet are different. That's why ultra heel – and its ability to adapt to perfectly fit your feet – are such a great option.

Bright designs

Like something bright and bold? New Balance have you covered. Not only are they super spring-inspired, but they offer a great opportunity to inject some colour into your wardrobe.

Looking for more fitness essentials?

Emily Shaw

Emily first (temporarily) joined the Real Homes team while interning on her summer break from university. After graduating, she worked on several publications before joining Real Homes as Staff Writer full time in mid-2018. She left the brand in 2020 to pursue another career, but still loves a second-hand bargain and sourcing unique finds to make her rented flat reflect her personality.

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