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Best Cushioned Running Shoes
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Comfort is one of the most important parts of any running shoe. When you are buying cushioned running shoes, you are obviously seeking out something with more comfort and support. These shoes are all designed to give you more padding, and soles that do a great job of absorbing impact. Also, you want to make sure your cushioned shoes have plenty of breathabilities to keep that comfort factor up higher. Whether you are climbing a mountain or running a marathon comfort is very important in order to finish. Look into the comfort level of each running shoe to make sure it is cushioned enough for you and fits your foot to your own comfort level.
Value
When we took a look at value, we considered the price ranges of the shoe, the shoe’s durability, and what the shoe had to offer. We also listed some affordable budget shoes to assist those that need those types of shoes.
When you are purchasing a great pair of cushioned running shoes, you want to make sure you understand that the size range can vary with different brands and styles. You really do need to make sure you have the right type of fit with these shoes, and the best way to do that is to get your feet measured. You can measure your own feet, but if you want better accuracy, have your feet measured by a professional so you can purchase the right size.
Durability
Durability is usually dictated by the materials that are designed into these shoes, so you’ll want to check on materials to make sure the shoes you want to buy are designed well. Also, make sure you check out the rubber outsole to ensure that it helps protect the shoe and increases the lifespan of the shoe. You need to make sure the materials it is made of are long lasting and durable enough for the certain terrain you will be using them for.
If you are running in the winter months you need to make sure they can withstand that type of temperature and still be durable. When looking at the reviews make sure the best cushioned running shoes you are picking has received wonderful reviews and raves on how durable the shoe is.
Features
Different brands of running shoes offer different features on their shoes, but some are standard. With these types of shoes, you’ll wind up with a cushioned midsole, an upper that should breathe well, and a nice padding system. Also, look at the soles of the shoes to make sure they are great at absorbing impact as you run.
Making sure these running shoes are like cushions on your feet and are soft with stability is important. Another feature to look for is how breathable the shoe is or if they have shock absorption to help prevent your feet from being sore.
Top 10 Picks
1. Hoka One One Bondi 5
Hoka One One’s Bondi 5 Running Shoes are made to give you plenty of cushioning and support packed into a nice maximum-styled running shoe. You’ll get a lot of cushioning, a nice, large, oversized sole to help absorb impact and shock while you run, and a wide variety of size choices. You’ll be protected from impact and shock so that your muscles and joints don’t experience so much fatigue or pain. You’ll also get a well-designed upper that provides a lot of support and comfort.
Read moreComfort:
Hoka One One’s Bondi 5 best cushioned running shoes offer a lot of great comfort options. You’ll get a nice, over-sized sole, which is designed to absorb impact and keep your muscles and joints feeling great. Plus, you get a comfortable upper that is designed to not rub or irritate your skin. You’ll get a smooth running motion out of the Early Stage Meta-Rocker technology designed in the shoe which helps to straighten out your stride while you are on the go, and should make your runs smooth.
Features:
These shoes come with several great features that will help you feel great on all of your runs. You get a lot of traction in the over-sized shoe sole, and that will give you the balance and grip you need. You’ll also get a soft EVA sole, which will conform to your foot and provide you with cushioning and protection from impact. We also really like the upper which won’t rub and the Early Stage Meta-Rocker technology which will help you straighten your stride.
Durability:
These shoes are very durable since they are designed with high-quality materials. One of the most important aspects of this shoe that adds to its durable design is the high abrasion rubber on the outsole. Those rubber outsoles help to protect the shoe from wear and tear, so you’ll get a lot of use out of these shoes. You’ll feel great each time you hit these trails in these comfortable shoes.
Value:
These shoes run on the more expensive end of the spectrum for cushioned running shoes, but they still offer a lot and are a great value. Their durability is outstanding, which means you’ll have these shoes for a long time before you’ll need to worry about replacing them. Plus, you’ll also get plenty of cushioning and support to help your joints and muscles feel great each time you run.
2. Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 12
Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 12 Running Shoes offer you a new design in this line that has been updated to offer several modern features that you’ll love if you need extra support and cushioning. These shoes are some of the best-cushioned running shoes on the market, and offer so much comfort and support you’ll feel far less pain and fatigue if you suffer from any foot or leg problems. We like the balance this shoe offers, and the shoe’s responsive design. The cushioning is great, and you’ll get a lot of shock absorption with this shoe as well.
Read moreComfort:
Nike Men's Air Zoom Vomero 12 Running Shoes offer a lot of nice, updated comfort features that will help you feel better when you run. You get both Air Zoom and Lunarlon technology with these shoes, which offer a lot of cushioning, support, and balance. Also, you’ll get a nice fly mesh system that provides a lot of breathability and ventilation so your feet won’t ever feel like they are going to overheat. We also like that there is plush cushioning on the tongue and heel for extra comfort and support.
Features:
These most cushioned running shoes come with several features that make them a well-designed, comfortable shoe option. You’ll get a nice Flywire design which helps to reduce pressure points on the shoes and decreases both discomfort and skin irritation. Also, these shoes have a lot of responsiveness designed into them and also come with a nice internal bootie construction that helps wrap the feet in comfort. Also, you’ll get shoes that are designed to provide a lot of balance.
Durability:
Since these shoes were recently updated with more modern technology, the design was also updated for durability. With a nice rubber outsole, these shoes will be protected from wear and tear, and that helps to increase the lifespan of the shoe. You’ll be able to use them for a long time without needing to worry about replacing them. Also, you’ll get plenty of comfort and support.
Value:
These shoes are moderately priced, so that means they aren’t too expensive or cheap. They are a great value option since they are highly durable and you’ll have them for a while before you’ll need to worry about replacing them. Also, they provide so much comfort and support, you’ll love how great both your feet and legs feel when you run.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam Boracay v3
New Balance’s Fresh Foam Boracay v3 Running Shoe is made with a lot of comfort and are designed to be very lightweight so that they provide you with everything you need to make your runs as comfortable as possible. These shoes are very well-cushioned and provide a lot of great support at an affordable price, so they are a great option if you are shopping on a budget. These shoes were updated recently to provide you with the best technology, and enough support for very long runs. You’ll love the breathable mesh upper, and the nice ventilation and support you’ll get each time you run.
Read moreComfort:
New Balance’s Fresh Foam Boracay v3 cushioned running shoes offer a lot of nice design options for those of you looking for a lot of comfort and a shoe that provides a nice cushioning system. These shoes come with Fresh Foam technology, which means the cushioning will refresh itself and stay solid while you also get stability and comfort. Plus, you’ll get a nice insole upper that is designed for firmness and stability. The upper on these shoes are also very breathable, so you’ll get plenty of ventilation and you’ll never need to worry about your feet overheating.
Features:
These shoes offer a lot of great features that make them a nice option for a more comfortable run. The Fresh Foam technology that is built into the shoe gives you the cushioning and support you’ll need to feel great. Plus, the midsoles on these shoes are designed with EVA foam so that the shoes conform to your feet and offer a lot of comfort. You’ll also get durable outsoles that come with a two-layer rubber system.
Durability:
The outsoles on these shoes do a great job of absorbing shock, which will help you experience less soreness and fatigue. However, you’ll also get a lot of durability packed into these shoes because of the double-layer outsoles. The outsoles are designed to help protect the shoes and prevent them from wearing out easily, so these shoes are built to last. You’ll have all the comfort and support you want in a great pair of shoes.
Value:
These shoes come with a very affordable price tag, so they are a great option for those of you shopping for a nice pair of cushioned shoes on a budget. They are a great value option since they also bring you a lot of durability and are built to last. You won’t need to worry about replacing them quickly, and you’ll love all the comfort and support you get packed into this great shoe.
4. Saucony Triumph ISO 3
Saucony’s Triumph ISO 3 Running Shoes come with a lot of cushioning that will take away the shock from any impact, and also help your muscles and joints feel much better as you run. There is a well-cushioned sole featured with these shoes that works great for both short jogs and longer runs. While the cushioning might seem like a bit much for those of you working on speed, you’ll get the protection you need to keep going on the trails if you experience any type of feet or leg problems. Also, you’ll get a well-balanced stride and a lot of support and stability with these shoes.
Read moreComfort:
Saucony’s Triumph ISO 3 best cushioned shoes are designed for comfort and come with a lot of cushioning in the design of the shoe. The cushioning system also features a nice sole design that is based on PWRGRID+ technology. The sole helps to make your feet feel more balanced and distributes your weight evenly so that you have a better stride. Also, you’ll get a great fit and you’ll have a shoe that won’t rub or create other foot problems. Plus, these shoes also give you a lot of great breathability with their mesh upper, so you’ll have the ventilation you need to prevent overheating.
Features:
These shoes come with a lot of great features you’ll love for the extra comfort and cushioning. You’ll get about 20% more cushioning with these shoes, and the cushioning is made to be lightweight so that it doesn’t weight the shoes down. Also, you get a nice, cushioned sole that helps absorb shock and keep you going strong. These shoes will prevent pressure points, and also have an 8mm drop to help balance out people with foot problems. These shoes are great for the runner who needs a bit more comfort and support.
Durability:
The nice outsole that is made into this shoe is comprised out of a strong rubber material to help absorb shock. That protection also protects the shoe and prevents excess wear and tear, giving the shoe a longer lifespan. Because of that, you’ll get a long-lasting shoe that provides you with all the protection you need while you are on the go. You’ll feel great each time you run in these shoes.
Value:
These shoes run on the expensive end of the spectrum, meaning you might have to spend a little more money on them if you want them. However, they are still a great value option in shoes since they’ll bring you a lot. First, the shoes are very durable and long-lasting, so you’ll be able to use them for a long time. Also, you’ll get all the extra cushioning and support you’ll need to help keep you going on the trails without pain or fatigue.
5. Asics 33-M 2
Asics designed their 33-M 2 Running Shoe to be one of the best cushioned running shoes for women you’ll find on the market today. Asics is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality footwear and excellent running shoes, and their 33-M 2 Running Shoes are no different. You’ll get a nice cushioning system with these shoes which will help absorb both shock and impact as you run, helping both your legs and feet to feel much better and preventing both soreness and fatigue. Also, these shoes are designed for durability, and will give you all the comfort you need to keep going strong.
Read moreComfort:
The Asics 33-M 2 Running Shoe is made to help people with foot problems since there is a lot of cushioning and shock absorption that comes along with this shoe. You get a nice midsole that has Amplifoam material, and that material feels very soft and comfortable. Plus, it is also very responsive and will help keep the cushioning soft and bouncy. Amplifoam is actually some of the best cushioning on the market for these types of shoes and is made to be durable by design. These shoes also offer a lot of great ventilation features that make them breathable and will help prevent overheating.
Features:
You’ll get a lot of great features if you decide to purchase these shoes that will help make your runs comfortable and enjoyable. First, you get a nice ComfoDry Sock Liner which helps boost breathability and also protects you from odor. You’ll also get Eva and SpEVA midsoles that will help add extra cushioning and also conform to your feet to help give you the support and stability you’ll need. These shoes also feature a durable rubber outsole that is made to help absorb impact while you run.
Durability:
With the strong rubber outsole designed into these shoes for protection, you’ll also get a lot of durability. The rubber outsoles on these shoes help extend the life of the shoe since they protect the shoes from excessive wear and tear. Also, the Amplifoam technology designed into this shoe also helps to make the shoes more durable, since that material is very durable. So, you’ll get a great shoe packed with a lot of high-quality materials that helps to boost durability.
Value:
These shoes are priced more on the expensive end of this market, so that means they might require a little more cash to purchase. However, they are still a great value purchase since they offer a lot of durability. You’ll get a nice pair of high-quality shoes that are built to last for some time. Plus, you’ll be provided with all the comfort and support you need to experience some great runs.
6. Hoka One One Vanquish 2
Hoka One One is known for creating excellent, best cushioned running shoes for men, and their Vanquish 2 Running Sneaker Shoe is a great example of this. This shoe has been upgraded to provide you with the latest cushioning system and support, making this a modern, well-designed shoe. You’ll love the midsole, which features two layers of EVA foam where most shoes only have one. That makes these shoes very soft, comfortable, well-cushioned, and responsive. You’ll get plenty of protection from impact so that your muscles and joints feel great each time you hit the trails.
Read moreComfort:
Hoka One One’s Vanquish 2 Running Sneaker Shoes have a nice, comfortable design. We really like their use of two layers of EVA foam in the midsole where most shoes only provide one. EVA foam conforms to your feet so the shoes fit great, and also provides a lot of extra cushioning and support. These shoes have a bouncy feel to them on the interior and also come with a web mesh construction in the upper for a lot of ventilation. That means you’ll get a lot of breathability built into these shoes, and you won’t ever need to worry about overheating.
Features:
Hoka One One’s Vanquish 2 Running Sneaker Shoes bring you a lot of great features you’ll love for the comfort and stability you want. With a nice double-layered EVA midsole, you’ll get cushioning and a lot of protection from impact. Also, the improved ventilation makes these shoes breathe well. The outsole is also designed with a durable rubber material that helps absorbs shock and impact and keeps you feeling great even on very long runs.
Durability:
These shoes come with several high-quality materials designed into them, and those materials contribute to the durability of the shoes. Plus, you also get the strong rubber outsole to help absorb shock, but that outsole also protects the shoe from wearing out quickly, increasing the lifespan of the shoe. So, you’ll have these shoes for some time before you’ll need to worry about replacing them, and you’ll love how great your feet and legs feel when you run.
Value:
These shoes are priced moderately, so you do get a decent price range for what you’ll get here. With a nice, durable design, you’ll get a lot of use out of these shoes. Also, you’ll love how comfortable they feel each time you hit the trails.
7. Under Armour Speedform Gemini 3
Under Armour has been making high-quality sporting products for many years, although they are new to creating great shoes. However, they did a great job with their Speedform Gemini 3 Running Shoes, which offer a nice design and several features you’ll love if you are looking for more cushioning and comfort on your runs. These best cushioned running shoes feature a lot of great modern technology in them, which is one of the reasons why they are so popular, and they use a nice design and high-quality materials to create this shoe. You’ll get soft cushioning and support which is still made to be lightweight.
Read moreComfort:
Under Armour made these shoes with plenty of lightweight cushioning to help support you on your runs. You get modern technology made for comfort with these shoes, and the padding is so nice you’ll be able to complete short runs with ease, or even very long ones while still feeling comfortable. You get a nice midsole with these shoes that also adds extra cushioning and responsiveness. Also, the shoes feel very flexible and move well with you. You’ll get nice ventilation as well, and the breathability you need so your feet won’t feel like they are overheating.
Features:
Under Armour’s shoes are made with many features you’ll love for the additional comfort benefits you’ll get. You’ll get very responsive shoes with cushioning that bounces back and feels very soft while you run. Also, the Micro G cushioning designed in the midsole helps give you protection from shock. You’ll also get a nice outsole that is made with puffed rubber to absorb shock and make your legs and feet experience less pain.
Durability:
These shoes have decent durability, and the outsole really helps with that. While the outsole does protect your feet well from impact, the rubber used on it helps protect the rest of the shoe from wearing out quickly. That means you’ll get a long lasting shoe with a lot of cushioning and support that will help you feel great for long periods of time.
Value:
These shoes come with a moderate price tag, so you won’t need to worry about overspending if you decide to buy them. Considering the decent durability they offer, you’ll have a great pair of shoes that are built to last, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them for quite some time. Also, you’ll love how comfortable they feel and how well they also protect your legs and feet.
8. Brooks Launch 4
Brooks designed their Launch 4 Running Shoes well, and if you decide to purchase this shoe, you’ll get one of the best-cushioned running shoes that money can buy. These shoes came out several years ago and were an instant hit, and their popularity has stuck ever since. That is because they offer a high-quality design with all the cushioning and support you’ll need to feel great on all of your runs. You’ll get a nice product that has been recently updated with modern technology. Your joints and muscles will feel great on both long and short runs.
Read moreComfort:
These Brooks Launch 4 Running Shoes are made with a lot of comfort. You’ll get a nice, wide upper fit and a stitched toe bumper so you have plenty of space for your toes. You also get a nice cushioning system that is backed up by firm foam with ample padding and comfort. Also, the rubber forefoot and rubber outsoles help to protect your feet from shock, giving you plenty of help and support. The uppers are designed to ventilate well, so you’ll get a lot of breathability and comfort with these shoes.
Features:
These shoes offer you a lot of features that will help your muscles and joints feel great each time you run. You’ll get firm padding with these shoes, and a lot of support with the cushioning. Plus, these shoes are designed with a larger forefoot area and a toe box that is very comfortable. You’ll also get a nice, rubber outsole that will help protect you from shock.
Durability:
The rubber outsoles on these shoes are made to absorb impact, but they also bring a lot of durability to the shoe design. You’ll get outsoles that can protect the shoes from wear and tear and make them more long-lasting. That’s a nice feature since you won’t have to worry about replacing these shoes for some time.
Value:
These shoes come with a moderate price tag, so you won’t need to worry about spending too much on cushioned running shoes for what you get. They make a nice value purchase since they are so durable, and you’ll get plenty of comfort with these shoes as well.
9. Asics Gel Nimbus 19
Asics made their Gel Nimbus 19 Running Shoes for neutral runners, and these shoes offer a lot of support and protection if you are worried about impact as you run. You’ll get a lot of excellent features in this well-designed shoe, which provides a lot of cushioning and comfort. These shoes are one of the best-cushioned shoes on the market today and have been very popular as an option for years. That’s because they help with shock absorption and provide a lot of comfort for your runs.
Read moreComfort:
The Asics Gel Nimbus 19 Running Shoes feature a nice gel cushioning system that gives you plenty of comforts while you run. You’ll get Flytefoam technology built into these shoes, which is a modern cushioning system that helps provide a lot of support based on the midsole. Also, these most cushioned running shoes are very lightweight regardless of their cushioning and do a great job of absorbing shock. They also have a nice ventilation system which will help your feet to breathe and keep you comfortable.
Features:
The features that come with this shoe include the Flytefoam cushioning design offered by the manufacturer, which brings more comfort and support. Plus, these best cushioned running shoes for women are also stylish and attractive, which is a nice bonus. You’ll also get a seamless upper that reduces pressure points and won’t rub. The outsole on these shoes is made of rubber to help absorb shock.
Durability:
The outsole on these shoes is designed to help protect your muscles and joints from impact. However, because the outsole is made from a strong rubber material, it also helps to protect the shoe so that the shoe lasts longer. That means you’ll get a durable, high-quality product if you purchase these shoes.
Value:
These shoes are priced in the average price range, which does make them a great value product. Since you’ll get a lot of durability with these best cushioned running shoes, you won’t need to worry about replacing them for some time. Also, you’ll get a product that is built for comfort and protection.
10. Mizuno Wave Enigma 6
Mizuno is a well-known brand in the shoe industry and has created high-quality sporting shoes for many years. Their Wave Enigma 6 Running Shoes are another great example of this, and these shoes are designed to give you the cushioning and support you’ll need on your runs. These shoes offer ample amounts of cushioning, which makes them a popular option among runners looking to protect their feet and legs from shock and impact. You’ll get a nice, seamless design that won’t rub and is built to last.
Read moreComfort:
Mizuno’s Wave Enigma 6 best cushioned running shoes for men have a lot of cushioning packed into their design, which helps give you support and also protects you on your runs. You’ll also get shoes that have a seamless design so that they won’t rub or create other skin problems. These shoes offer a lot of stability and responsiveness as well with their cushioning system. Plus, you’ll get shoes that have a nice ventilation system and breathe very well.
Features:
These shoes have a lot of nice features designed into them that offer you a lot of protection. You’ll get a seamless interior with a lot of cushioning on the interior of the shoe, so you won’t need to worry about rubbing and your feet and legs will feel great. These shoes also have a nice heel system that helps absorb shock and strong, rubber outsoles that also protect you from impact.
Durability:
Since these shoes are made out of high-quality materials, you get a lot of durability with their design. Plus, the rubber outsoles that are made to absorb shock also help protect the outside of the shoe, making the shoe last longer. So, you’ll get plenty of durability and you’ll be able to use these shoes for some time.
Value:
These shoes are priced moderately, so they run in the average price range. You won’t have to drop too much money on them, and you’ll still get a nice value product. Since these shoes come with so much built-in durability, you’ll be able to utilize them well.
Sources
- , 20 Best Cushioned Running Shoes of 2017, Informational Running Website
- , The Best Cushioned Running Shoes, Informational Running Website
- , 10 Best Running Shoes for Guys with Problem Feet, Informational Running Website