Sorting The Greats From The Flops
Just because it’s a shoe doesn't mean it’s good enough for running. While some shoes deliver comfort and durability mile after mile, others fall short with poor cushioning, weak construction, or inefficient design. Choosing the correct shoes can make all the difference in your training and long-term comfort. Ahead, we’ll show you the models to avoid and the best options worth investing in. Let’s begin with the flops.
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1. Nike Revolution 6
Built more for casual comfort than performance, the Revolution 6 struggles during serious runs. Its midsole feels dull and lacks lasting energy return. Its outsole wears quickly, and traction becomes unreliable in wet or uneven conditions. Also, breathability is passable but insufficient for high-intensity workouts.
NIKE REVOLUTION 6 REVIEW - On feet, comfort, weight, breathability and price review by cowfreekicks
2. Adidas Duramo SL
Adidas’ Duramo SL may look the part, but it falters under pressure. The EVA cushioning feels unresponsive, while the upper materials lack durability. Though the toe box fits most, heel slippage and long-term comfort issues make it a poor choice for dedicated runners.
Adidas Duramo SL Running Shoes for Men | Best Shoes for 5Km Running by Sachin Pisar
3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9
Marketed for versatility, the Charged Assert 9 lacks the finesse of a true running shoe. Its midsole cushioning is overly firm, offering little bounce or support. Moreover, the breathable mesh feels stiff, and the overall design appears to prioritize style over substance.
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 - Does a Bit of Everything by Running Shoes Guru
4. Skechers D’Lites
The Skechers D’Lites are built for lifestyle wear, not the road. Their bulky midsole adds weight without real benefit, and the arch support falls short over distance. While fine for casual outings, they lack the breathability and performance runners need in a high-mileage shoe.
Skechers Women's D'Lites Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker Review by Shoes Collection
5. Puma Flyer Runner
When used for serious training, this shoe falls flat. The Flyer Runner’s cushioning lacks impact protection, while the outsole delivers unreliable grip, especially on wet pavement. An unpadded heel collar causes friction, and the shoe’s overall build shows premature wear with regular running.
Puma Flyer Runner Softfoam+ Running Review by My Sneaker
6. Reebok Lite 3.0
Reebok Lite 3.0 reveals its limitations under regular mileage. With minimal cushioning and poor shock absorption, each step feels harsh. The stiff upper adds discomfort, and traction suffers noticeably on wet or smooth surfaces. Runners needing support find it lacking in responsiveness.
Reebok Lite Plus 3 (GY7796) by GreekReviewsForShoes
7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7
Outdated tech holds the Gel-Contend 7 back. Its rearfoot gel fails to deliver the bounce expected from modern ASICS models, and transitions feel clunky due to awkward weight distribution. The rigid upper doesn't lock down the foot effectively, making it unreliable for consistent performance.
ASICS GEL-CONTEND 7 **ON FEET** Men's Running Shoe Review by mrsneakerinsider
8. New Balance DRFT v1
This shoe starts soft but fades fast. Support is compromised within weeks, as the EVA sole compresses early. Combined with a loose-fitting upper and minimal arch structure, the shoe leaves runners battling with fatigue. It simply isn’t built to handle high-impact, long-distance demands.
9. Fila Memory Workshift
Running in these feels more like dragging your feet through heat and friction than striding freely. Designed for the workplace, the Workshift is a heavy, rigid option for runners. The memory foam lacks spring and responsiveness, and breathability is practically nonexistent.
10. Avia Avi-Verge
This one falls short on multiple fronts. Its rigid sole cushioning fails to adapt to impact, while the synthetic upper traps heat during extended runs. Fit issues often require manual adjustments, and the outsole wears down alarmingly fast, especially on pavement or trail surfaces.
Paul's Picks: Step Up Your Game: Avia Avi-Verge Men's Shoes by Life Designs Institute
You now know which shoes fall short, so let’s move on to the top running shoes that are worth your money.
1. Brooks Ghost 15
A go-to for daily training, the Ghost 15 balances comfort and consistency. While its DNA Loft v2 cushioning softens each landing, a segmented crash pad ensures smooth transitions. Breathable mesh and a secure fit complement a design that suits both beginners and seasoned runners.
Brooks Ghost 15 - Opinion after 50+ miles by Running Shoes Guru
2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3
Speed meets science in the Vaporfly NEXT% 3. With ZoomX foam and a carbon plate underfoot, it propels you forward effortlessly. The Atomknit upper remains breathable without sacrificing lockdown, making this elite racer ideal for chasing PRs on marathon day.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 Psychic Blue Running Shoes by Sneaker Man
3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
Designed for those who crave cushioning, the Gel-Nimbus 26 absorbs impact with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL®. Its engineered knit hugs the foot in all the right places. The shoe is great for neutral runners and excels on long hauls.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 Review by Alastair Running
4. Hoka One One Clifton 9
The Clifton 9 brings serious comfort without the bulk. A lightweight build pairs with compression-molded EVA for long-distance support, while the Meta-Rocker shape smooths out your stride. With added breathability and toe room, it’s as practical as it is plush.
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5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
This daily trainer excels in comfort and fit. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers a buttery-smooth ride, and the Hypoknit upper flexes naturally with your stride. Wide sizing options and endurance-friendly support make it a standout for high-mileage runners seeking softness without sacrifice.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 - Looks Boring but Better Than Ever by kofuzi
6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
Built for performance and comfort, the Endorphin Speed 4 blends race-day speed with everyday reliability. Its PWRRUN PB cushioning and nylon plate create a snappy, energetic ride. Thanks to the SPEEDROLL geometry, each stride feels smooth, efficient, and ready for the next.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 after 100 Miles by Doctors of Running
7. Altra Torin 7
Runners who prefer a natural stride will appreciate the Torin 7’s zero-drop platform. Balanced Cushioning™ and a responsive EGO™ MAX midsole reduce joint impact without dulling performance. The FootShape™ toe box promotes proper alignment, allowing your feet to move the way they’re meant to.
Altra Torin 7 Black Running Shoes by Sneaker Man
8. On Cloudmonster
The Cloudmonster lives up to its name. Bold in both design and delivery, its Helion™ superfoam and oversized CloudTec® pods produce massive energy returns. Its rocker-shaped sole glides effortlessly, and its airy upper keeps things cool, even on the longest training days.
ON CLOUDMONSTER After 100 Miles: Mistake or Must-Have? by Running With TK
9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27
Mizuno’s Enerzy foam and signature Wave Plate technology provide smooth shock absorption here. Combining bounce with stability, it's breathable upper maintains steady airflow. This shoe is a daily trainer with race-day potential, ideal for runners who value speed and support in one package.
Discover the Mizuno Wave Rider 27: A Solid Performer for Runners by FORDY RUNS
10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Designed for elite competition, the Adios Pro 3 packs power into every step. ENERGYRODS 2.0 offers stiffness and propulsion, while Lightstrike Pro foam maximizes rebound. This shoe is lightweight yet responsive and thrives in marathon settings where every second counts.
Adidas Adios Pro 3 - An outstanding race shoe nearly ruined by a dreadful upper by Sagasu Running
