We Tested Podiatrist-Recommended Running Shoes —These Are the 9 We Actually Recommend

Ready to hit the trail? The Altra Lone Peak 9 is designed for rugged terrain and features a wide toe box, allowing toes to naturally splay for better stability and comfort on uneven trails. While I tested the earlier version, the Lone Peak 7, the design features are similar to the 9, and I’m itching to get my hands on this update.

The 9 offers outstanding traction and comfort without sacrificing ground feel, so you can navigate the earth beneath you. The newest version also features a softer midsole to grant a smoother, more comfortable experience on uneven or rocky trails.

It’s important to note that as a zero-drop shoe, the heel and forefoot are at the same level. This style encourages a more natural foot strike by mimicking how feet naturally rest when barefoot. According to Fuchs, zero-drop shoes can strengthen the feet and encourage a more natural foot position, but they may not provide enough support for everyone.

If you’re used to a higher drop, make sure to gradually work down to a zero-drop shoe. Since there’s less cushioning, I find this shoe style wonderful for running on a trail but not cushioned enough for pavement.

The Hoka’s H-frame technology helps prevent overpronation (when your foot rolls inward) and offers support at the back of the foot, putting less strain on the knees, hips, and back. “These feel so cushiony!” says editor Ashley Ziegler. “I was worried they'd feel clunky since the soles are so thick, but they felt so comfy from the first step. I love how much cushioning there is around the back of the foot. Seriously dreamy.” These running shoes also hold the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they were evaluated by the APMA to ensure that they promote foot health. 

According to Fuchs, people with high arches should seek shoes with both cushioning and flexibility, as these features help absorb shock and relieve pressure on the arches. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 has both of those high arch–friendly features.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15 has an even softer, plusher midsole for a comfy, protected ride, and the shoes still bend naturally with your foot's movement. The shoe’s upper part is flexible and breathable, yet keeps feet nice and secure.

The cushioned midsole absorbs impact, while the flexible mesh upper allows the foot to move naturally — a helpful combination for runners with high arches. Other bonuses include reflective details to keep you protected in low visibility and great traction that can take you over a variety of terrains.

Just keep in mind that these shoes are specifically designed for road running. They’re also designed for everyday use, not racing.

Being flat-footed myself, I tested an older model, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23, across a variety of terrains. I found its GuideRails support system — designed to gently align your feet, knees, and hips — was effective at keeping my feet in a neutral position. Also, thanks to an unfortunate injury over a decade ago, I have a bit of sensitivity in my left knee, but the cushioning kept me feeling protected.

The GTS 25 features the same design but offers an even bouncier, nitrogen-infused midsole, making flat feet happy when running on harsh concrete. That said, the shoe’s support system could feel a little rigid for some, and I found earlier versions of this shoe a bit clunky.

If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, shoes with excellent cushioning and great arch support are essential, says Fuchs.

One potential drawback is that the shoes’ stability features can make them feel a little stiff.

As an overpronator, I love the earlier version of this shoe, the GT-2000 12, which has a dual-density midsole and structured cushioning on the medial side (the inner part of the shoe) that gently guides my feet into a neutral alignment. The wide foot base means I have a more stable platform to land on, reducing excessive side-to-side motion. The newest version features the same design but with a plusher and bouncier sole for even more comfortable runs.

The GT-2000 12s already have exceptional cushioning — I tested them from trail to pavement, and they’re among the most comfy running shoes I’ve ever tried. I imagine the newer version is even comfier for those with heel pain.

Just note that these shoes are built for stability, so they may feel a little restricting to some, especially on the sides of the feet. The tapered toe box could also feel restrictive to those with wider feet.

The Clifton 11 is very lightweight at just 8.34 ounces, but it still delivers extra cushioning and support. Cliftons have a wide toe box, with plenty of room for wide feet to stretch and grip. They also feature Hoka’s signature high heel-to-toe drop, with the heel sitting 8 millimeters higher than the toe. Tester Amy Fischer, RD, CDN, prefers Cliftons over other Hoka styles. The lightweight and responsive feel of the shoe makes it easy to get more than 10,000 steps a day without any discomfort. “I find that they provide solid support for both standing and walking, and the best part is they don’t require a break-in period,” she says. “I didn’t deal with any rubbing, soreness, or other issues that can sometimes occur with a new pair.”

Well cushioned, supportive, and stable, the Nortiv8 ActiveFloat Comfortable Lightweight Running Shoes are a great all-around option. “The thick sole is awesome!” says tester Michael Cossey. “I can comfortably walk in them for miles without feeling like I’m unstable or unsupported.”

Cossey notes how incredibly breathable and lightweight the shoes are. He also appreciates that the shoes support his body weight evenly, taking the pressure off his knees and reducing pain. The shoes hold up well over many miles — not bad for a pair that typically costs less than $60.

Keep in mind that while Cossey loves the comfy, roomy toe box and wide fit, those who have narrower feet might not get the best fit with these shoes. The shoes don’t have the stability found in some competitors, so runners who overpronate or have flat feet might want to look at other models.

If you want a stylish running shoe that still delivers solid cushioning and stability, the Alo Runner is a worthy pick. “These are fantastic running shoes,” says writer and editor Ashley Ziegler. “These have a great design for running because they create a subtle forward rocking motion that supports how the feet move while running.”

The shoes feature a stabilizing heel cup that adds comfort and keeps your feet positioned correctly, a plush and responsive midsole that absorbs harsh impact and propels you forward, and great grip on the outsole to keep you steady on slippery terrain. Ziegler approves of the shoe’s overall stability, cushioning, breathability, and reflective details for visibility. And we love that they come in five neutral and nine seasonal colors.

Keep in mind that, as great as these shoes are, they’re not made for someone who needs strong arch support. Also, they run slightly big, so be sure to test these around the house before you wear them on a run.