Best women's running shoes 2024: step into comfort and performance

The best women’s running shoes aren't just your run-of-the-mill kicks; they're specially designed with women in mind. Our Team of Active experts at T3—including seasoned marathoners and recreational runners— have put several pairs through their paces to not only help you find a shoe that fits like a glass slipper, but help turn your pavement pounding into a Cinderella-esque sprint.

Biological differences between women and men mean we exhibit slightly different running mechanics. “The wider pelvis in women can affect hip alignment and stride, influencing the type of gait support needed in shoes, especially on uneven terrain,” explains Lisa Buddenberg, a Merrell technical representative and trail runner.

“Women also often experience different impact forces, which can lead to the need for specific cushioning, while our greater flexibility can impact how we absorb shock while running. This might influence shoe choice, especially in trail running where uneven surfaces require different support.”

As a result, lots of brands now offer women-specific shoes to address these differences. Check out our top 9 picks below and don't forget to look at the AQs at the bottom of this page where Lisa delves into more detail about how to choose the right running shoe for you. Also, if nothing here takes your fancy, take a look at T3's general running shoe guide and trail running shoes.

Best overall

The Ultraboost 22 have been tailored to better fit the female foot to ensure softer cushioning, gentler landings, and better support. This includes a redesigned heel pocket, a shallower forefoot profile, a lower instep area, and a rubber outsole that has been redeveloped to accommodate the female gait cycle, addressing overpronation, which women have the tendency to do more than men.

The boost midsole and updated primeknit upper combined with the Linear Energy Plush torsion system increases responsiveness, delivering 4% more forefoot energy return than its predecessor, the Ultraboost 21. These enhancements provide a smooth and comfortable ride, making the Ultraboost 22 ideal for everyday wear and long runs.

Our tester, Joanna Ebsworth (who’s also a certified personal trainer) said she found these trainers incredibly comfortable and that they make every movement feel effortless. However, she also points out that, although it isn't the lightest shoe, it still has a supportive, springy feel necessary for heavy runners and long mileage days.

Aesthetically, the Ultraboost 22 boasts a sleek and modern design with a chunky cushioning wedge and a slinky sock-like upper made from 50% Parley Ocean Plastic. It’s available in 21 colourways, so there's a style to suit everyone. These shoes do come with a slightly higher price tag, however, our tester said it's a worthwhile investment for any female runner looking for a shoe designed with her specific needs in mind.

Read our full Adidas Ultraboost 22 review.

Best for speedwork

When your shoes are as versatile as the Mach 4 you can run far in them and rely on them to look after your legs. Yet, they're also able to take on tempo or harder sessions and still feel fast, so they're ideal for runners who want to invest in just one pair of shoes to do all their training. 

If you like max cushioning (something Hoka One One is especially famous for) you'll appreciate the stack height of the Mach 4 and, better still, these ultra-light women's running shoes can help you both in terms of comfort, and injury prevention. But, thanks to its springiness, the Mach 4 can also enable you to go fast, offering the best of all worlds.

In regards to fit, our tester, Tina Chantry, a fitness editor and UKA running coach, said they fit snugly on her narrow feet but weren’t overly tight. However, she advises opting for half a size bigger if you have wider feet or prefer a roomier fit.

Some other running shoes with carbon plates might feel too firm, so if you want some softness without a squidgy feeling, then opt for the Mach 4. At RRP, this shoe is also a little cheaper than similar models from other brands, such as the women's version of the Saucony Endorphin Speed.

There’s really not much left to add beyond a strong suggestion that you put these very near the top of your next potential shoe purchase list.

Read our full Hoka One One Mach 4 review.

Best arch support

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is the ideal blend of support and softness, showcasing updated cushioning technology without compromising underfoot protection.

Featuring DNA LOFT cushioning, a mix of EVA foam, rubber, and air, this model ensures unparalleled comfort and stability. The GuideRails support system guides the foot's middle and lateral areas, offering consistent comfort for long-time users.

The 12mm drop suits those prone to calf or Achilles issues, while the 3D Fit Print mesh upper ensures a secure and irritation-free fit. Brooks DNA Loft enhances cushioning for a plush yet responsive ride, complemented by a durable blown rubber outsole with flex grooves for added flexibility.

Our tester, Lucy Miller, a fitness writer and NASM-certified Personal Trainer, found the Adrenaline GTS 23 were true to size and said they delivered comfort straight out of the box for short, speedy, and even longer runs. Not only does this make them a top choice for keen runners, but for those who spend the majority of the day on their feet. 

With nearly 60% recycled materials in the uppers, versatile widths, and fit options, it's a reliable choice for stability and support, earning rave reviews from runners and professionals alike.

Read our full Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review.

Also consider: ASICS' Gel-Kayano 29. Featuring the FF BLAST PLUS foam cushioning, these trainers give serious bounce and support to the foot, making long runs feel a lot smoother, easier and more energised. Read our full ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 review.

Best for overpronation

Created for women by women, the Under Armour Flow Synchronicity trainers are specifically designed for women runners and athletes. They take into account women's heel, arch and foot height, and the trainers have a stylish netting-like design and material in a feminine light pink colour.

When our Homes Editor, Beth Girdler-Malsen (who is a keen marathon runner), initially tried them on she said they sat tightly on the foot despite the height of the shoe sitting quite low on the ankle. This can sometimes put people off who like their shoes to feel super secure but, despite this, Beth says the UA Flow Synchronicity trainers are incredibly supportive, especially for those who overpronate.

The shoe's insole corrects overpronation and focuses on the back of the foot towards the ankle and heel. Beth said this can take a little getting used to when you first start wearing them, but that they quickly became comfortable and found them suitable for 5-10K distances.

The UA Flow Synchronicity trainers are cushioning, and as they sit tightly to the heel and ankle, they're more open around the toes and feel very light on the feet. Beth also tested these during a UK heatwave and found them to be relatively breathable and not absorb too much heat when running.

Overall, they're a comfortable cushioning pair of trainers that are great for training over short distances and supporting those who overpronate or have difficult arches.

Best cushioned

The Saucony Ride 15 delivers unparalleled comfort with more foam and less weight, featuring an 18% increase in PWRRUN foam. The midsole height is now 35mm at the heel and 27mm at the forefoot, ensuring an 8mm heel-to-toe drop for optimal cushioning.

The midsole’s new shape enhances the ride quality, offering a smoother heel-to-toe transition, greater forefoot flexibility, and underfoot contouring. This contouring, along with raised sidewalls, ensures the shoe hugs your foot from heel to toe, providing a plush and supportive feel. The addition of the new PWRRUN+ cushioned sockliner only enhances this comfort.

Despite the added foam, the Ride 15 is 1.3 ounces lighter than its predecessor. The result is a springier, lighter, and bouncier experience while maintaining the firm midsole beloved by long-time Ride fans.

The upper has been redesigned with ultra-light, breathable mesh featuring wider holes to reduce heat retention. Minimal layers create a sleek profile, and padded areas around the tongue, heel, and ankle add support. A rigid pull-tab on the tongue and an elastic loop on the heel facilitate easy on and off.

Style-wise, the Ride 15 offers various colourways to suit all tastes. However, the fit may pose issues for those with wider feet, as the forefoot is quite narrow. Once adjusted, the shoes provide extreme comfort and support for mid- to long-distance runs, offering a stable, grippy, and responsive ride even on rougher terrains.

Read our full Saucony Ride 15 review.

Most comfortable

For runners needing more than a neutral shoe, Brooks’ GuideRails system in the Glycerin 19 offers superb support akin to bike stabilisers. This system reduces excess shin rotation and ankle pronation, ensuring safe knee motion and minimising injury risks.

The plush feel of the Glycerin 19 extends to its upper, providing a luxurious wrap-around fit without edging or rubbing. The thick, soft tongue and OrthoLite sock liner add to this snug comfort. A flexible mesh upper adapts to foot movements, while a structured heel offers enhanced support.

Brooks' DNA Loft technology, with extra air in the midsole, boosts cushioning and keeps the shoe lightweight. The durable blown rubber outsole features flex grooves for added flexibility and excellent grip in wet conditions.

Ideal for long runs and recovery days, the Glycerin 19 excels in comfort and support, making it a favourite among runners and professionals on their feet all day. This shoe promises a soft, cushioned ride that fans of Brooks' brand will particularly appreciate.

Read our full Brooks Glycerin 19 review. (P.S.: ever wondered what's the difference between the Brooks Glycerin 19 vs Brooks Launch 8? We'll tell you.)

Best for long distances

The Asics Superblast 2 offer exceptional comfort and energy return and are ideal for those wanting to get some mileage under their belt. When our tester, Lucy, first took these out during a 30km test run, she found they performed exceptionally, delivering ultimate comfort and a blister-free experience straight out of the box.

The thick FF Turbo+ foam midsole is this shoes' standout feature. It's softer, lighter and bouncier than the previous version of the FF Blast Turbo, and not only returns energy like a kinetic spring, but also provides a softer, more comfortable feel underfoot. The high stack height also offers a stable, bouncy ride, perfect for neutral runners, while the ASICSGRIP outsole provides good grip in both dry and wet conditions.

In regards to fit, our tester said the Superblast 2 were true to size, but that she found the toe box slightly narrow. However, loosening the laces resolved this. The mesh upper is also soft and breathable, and on those warmer days, Lucy said she had  no problems with her feet overheating.

If comfort and performance are your priorities, the Superblast 2 will see you through!

Read our full Asics Superblast 2 review 

Best for style

Lululemon entered previously uncharted territories with its new Blissfeel running trainers. The Blissfeel is... a good start. You can feel that the last was designed for women as the shoes fit well. Lululemon also made sure the Blisfeel feels stylish and comes in a few exciting colourways, so you can pick one that matches your style the best.

However, our tester, Tina, said the running experience in these is far from perfect. She found the narrow and shallow toe box restrictive, even for runners, like herself, with relatively narrow feet. To add insult to injury, she said the upper isn't that breathable either, meaning you'll probably experience some overheating issues in the shoes, even after shorter runs.

On the bright side, this lack of ventilation makes the Blissfeel ideal for cold-weather runs when your feet just can't warm up, no matter how many layers of socks you put on. The outsole is flexible and bends well; chalk another one up for the Blissfeel.

Tina recommends these shoes if you aren't looking for a specific performance running shoe and would rather a pair of stylish shoes for running/walking in. She also suggests to go a size up if you prefer your shoes to feel less snug.

Read our full Lululemon Blissfeel review.

Best budget

The Reebok Floatride is our top pick if you're looking for the best cheap ladies' running shoes. They're not flashy, but they have all the basics you need from a great everyday running shoe, including excellent cushioning for urban outings and a very natural feel.

The energy foam midsole delivers lightweight, responsive cushioning, while a light mesh upper provides support and ventilation. It’s also the perfect shoe for the gym and cross-training. Dedicated runners will want to invest in something more advanced, but these offer excellent value for a basic running shoe, especially as they look just as great in a café as in the gym.

Check out our Reebok discount codes to bag a great price. 

How to choose the best women's running shoes for you

To find the perfect pair of running shoes your best bet is to try on various brands, to see which shoe you like best, and have a gait analysis. This is a short test that evaluates the way that you run to help determine the best type of shoe for you. They're relatively inexpensive, take around 30 minutes and lots of brands offer them.

Aside from this, there's a few considerations you'll want to make when it comes to choosing the best running shoe for you. Below, Lisa outlines the key things to keep in mind when searching for your perfect kicks...

Fit/comfort: Ensure the shoe is snug but not constricting, and that there's enough room in the toe box. Too much though and you'll risk damaging your nails, especially when running downhill. Aim for at least a finger’s width of space.

Arch support: Depending on your arch type (flat, neutral, high), you may want to consider what type of shoe you need, and if you need insoles, as they often have varying levels of support.

Cushioning: Trail Shoes will often offer more protection against rocks and roots, with varying levels of cushioning based on the terrain. While road shoes usually offer more cushioning designed for comfort on hard surfaces, which can help absorb impact.

Terrain-type: Trail shoes often have deeper lugs for traction and a more durable upper to withstand rough conditions. However, road running shoes typically have a smoother outsole for better grip on pavement and cushioning designed for repetitive impacts on harder surfaces. There are also road-to-trail shoes which have small lugs to match any terrain.

Weight: Trail shoes might be slightly heavier due to added protection (like rock-plates) and durability, while road running shoes are generally lighter, focusing on speed and comfort for longer distances on flat surfaces.

Breathability: Depending on the weather conditions you're going to be running in, you'll want to consider the breathability of materials and waterproofing levels. 

Drop: Think about how the shoe's heel-to-toe drop aligns with your running style. A lower drop can promote a more natural foot strike.

FAQ