The most comfortable running shoes for women of 2024

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 14 options | Weight: 9.3 oz

When we polled our team of experts for their favorite running shoes, both running coaches we spoke with, Carleth Keys and Kim Clark listed these New Balance sneakers as their top picks. "This is the most comfortable shoe on the market, ideal for daily training and long runs that don’t involve intense workouts," says Keys. Clark agrees telling us "The cushioning is so plush and soft. It seriously is the most comfortable cushioning underfoot for easy runs!"

The sporty kicks have a breathable mesh upper to prevent your feet from overheating and a durable rubber outsole that offers great traction for everyday runs. There are 14 styles to choose from and sizes not only range from 5 to 13 but they also come in narrow, medium, wide and extra-wide options so you can easily find your ideal fit.

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 25 options | Weight: 9.2 oz

Both women’s fitness expert, Julie Lohre and Stephanie Holbrook, Level 1 USA triathlon coach have given these Asics their seal of approval thanks to their stand-up performance. "When I think about running and longer cardio sessions, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 is tough to beat. The cushioning is top-notch, providing a lot of shock absorption, and they are really comfortable on those long runs," Lohre said. The ultra-cushioned insole adds comfort and helps you achieve softer landings to prevent injuries. Lohre also notes, "The support system in these shoes helps maintain good alignment, making them ideal for my higher-impact workouts." Holbrook also likes that they "Provide cushioning and support to absorb the impact of each stride."

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 8 options | Weight: 7.4 oz

Brooks is a brand long synonymous with running, so it makes sense that our Senior Commerce Writer, Kristin Granero named these her top joggers. She wears them often on all types of treks, including through hilly parks, and has always felt supported on even the longest of runs when wearing them — she even found them comfortable when she ran the Brooklyn Half Marathon. Along with being supportive and breathable, Granero loves how lightweight the running shoes are — weighing just 7.4 ounces, so they won’t weigh you down as you get in your miles. Some shoppers said they found the sneakers to be too narrow, but they do come in wide sizes as well if you need extra room

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 25 options | Weight: 9.7 oz

Lohre praises these running shoes saying, "They are fantastic because of their reliable support and cushioning. While they are super stable shoes, it is the cushion and comfort that make Adrenalines a shoe I really like for [both] treadmills and outdoor running. They offer great stability, the fit is comfortable and the shoes provide nice arch support." Along with an airy mesh upper, they offer a removable foam footbed for extra comfort. Our Senior Home and Garden Editor, Jessica Dodell-Feder, is also a big fan. She runs 5-10 miles a week on both the treadmill and outdoors and loves them so much that she’s "owned some iteration of this sneaker for around 15 years." There are 24 styles to choose from and sizes not only range from 5 to 13 but they also come in narrow, medium, wide and extra-wide options, so you know you're gonna find your ideal fit.

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 61 options | Weight: 8.8 oz

Another Brooks option that topped the list of many experts was the Ghosts. Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS tells us "As a neutral running shoe, the Ghost is designed for distance running, everyday runs or walking with an enhanced upper and improved cushioning leading it to also be a recipient of the APMA Seal of Acceptance." NASM-certified personal trainer, Andrew White is also a fan because they "Offer a smooth, balanced ride and good durability, making it perfect for both new runners and seasoned marathoners." The cushioned insole and system of shock absorbers provide a smooth stable ride no matter how fast you’re running, while the mesh upper is super breathable. The under-$100 sneakers are also a customer favorite and are the No. 1 bestselling women’s road running shoes on Amazon.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 6 options | Weight: 9 oz

Chiropractor and certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS), Dr. Matt Tanneberg recommends this pair of running shoes for clients because they "Have a great balance of being light but also enough support for your lower extremities to absorb some of that pressure." 

The supportive insole cradles your foot for extra stability and the upper is made from breathable layers of mesh for ample airflow and cooling ventilation. The shock-absorbing sneakers are designed to reduce muscle fatigue and deliver soft landings to prevent injuries.

Sizes: 5.5 to 12 | Colors: 2 options | Weight: 6.4 oz

Holbrook tells us "If you're a runner, you need shoes that provide cushioning and support to absorb the impact of each stride," which is why she is such a big fan of these Altra running shoes. Designed for road running, these ultra-lightweight sneakers boast a roomy toe box and breathable upper to keep your feet comfortable. While the sneakers have a comfortable foam insole, the running shoes are zero-drop, meaning they have more of a "barefoot" feel to them which gives runners a more natural gait and stride. Zero-drop shoes aren’t for everyone though, if you suffer from foot ailments like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, bunions or hammertoes you should opt for more cushioned sneakers.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 7 options | Weight: 8.8 oz

These sporty Nikes are "a versatile cushioned trainer with good responsiveness for regular mileage runs up to long distances," Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, and Podiatrist at the Ankle & Foot Centers of America tells us. They boast ample arch support, a breathable upper and comfortable cushioning that helps keep your foot secure and stable as you pound the pavement. White recommends them to clients for daily training because they “offer consistent cushioning and support.” There are seven colors to choose from, and if you don’t see one you like, you can even design your own custom option.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 17 options | Weight: 11 oz

Bondi sneakers are another popular pick that has amassed over 5,800 five-star ratings from shoppers. Dr. Brenner is a fan "because of the EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) foam midsole which is excellent for shock absorption. It's an excellent shoe in regards to support." These sporty kicks have the thickest insole of the bunch and weigh less than 9 ounces, making them a solid pick for anyone whose feet need ultra-plush cushioning. Other key features are the engineered mesh construction, Ortholite hybrid sock liner, lightweight foam and rubber outsole. Dr. Tanneberg also recommends them because "they have ample amounts of cushion and are very comfortable for those long runs. The larger toe box will allow for more comfort and the bigger platform absorbs more pressure than most any other shoe will." The ample cushioning and support make them an ideal choice for low-intensity jogs and recovery runs post-races.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 17 options | Weight: 7.4 oz

If you’re looking to set some new personal records Keys suggests investing in this pair of Pumas because they are "Excellent for speed and tempo workouts." Designed as part of the brand’s Marathon Series sneakers, the running shoes are built for running long distances at top velocity. Weighing just 7.4 ounces the lightweight kicks have performance foam insoles for responsiveness and a durable rubber sole that provides excellent traction on all types of terrains. The breathable sneakers even have reflective details on the upper to help you be seen if you run at night.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 4 options | Weight: 9.2 oz

If you prefer running on trails instead of pavement or treadmills, it’s important to get a durable pair of trail running shoes that will keep your feet sturdy and prevent them from slipping and sliding. Dr. Alvarez recommends this pair from Salomon because they are "An excellent grip trail runner designed for stability and protection on rugged terrain surfaces like mud, rocks, etc., where other models would struggle." The webbing along the tongue keeps debris from entering your shoe, while the protective toe cap keeps your feet safe from harm. They also boast a rugged rubber sole that provides excellent traction and a cushioned insole for added comfort.