Not only do running shoes come in all shapes and sizes, but the best running shoes for women are made with a range of features as well. Some are great for stability, others excel in cushioning, and some are crafted with more specific scenarios (like ultramarathons) in mind. There is no one universal “best” women’s running shoe (though we do award one best overall), but there is what we consider to be the best of some distinct running shoe categories.
From brands like HOKA, New Balance, On, Altra, and more, we’re giving you our top picks for all sorts of running needs, whether relating to form, distance, or speed. All these women’s running shoes strike the balance between delivering on their specific promises and being comfortable at the same time. So, if you’re in need of a new pair, or looking to upgrade for your evolving running style, check out our 10 best running shoes for women that you can shop at Sun & Ski Sports.
Table of Contents
- Best Overall Women's Running Shoe
- Best Cushioned Performance Women's Running Shoe
- Best Speed Women's Running Shoe
- Best for Fast Daily Runs Women's Running Shoe
- Best for Long Runs Women's Running Shoe
- Best Stability Women's Running Shoe
- Best Ultramarathon Women's Running Shoe
- Best Daily Lightweight Women's Running Shoe
- Best Low-Drop Women's Running Shoe
- Best Responsive Women's Running Shoe
- Women's Running Shoe FAQs
- Time to Get Running
Best Overall Women’s Running Shoe
ASICS Women’s Novablast 6 Running Shoe
The ASICS Women’s Novablast 6 Running Shoe is a great opinion for a range of runners, which is why we’re considering it one of the best women’s running shoes overall. It’s cushioned, comfortable, and versatile, making it perfect for everyday runs and general wear.
The FF BLAST MAX midsole works together with the FF TURBO SQUARED technology to deliver a responsive trampoline-like ride. Weighing just over 7 ounces, it’s lightweight for the amount of cushioning it provides. A breathable engineered woven upper gives comfort, while the tongue wing construction helps maintain a secure fit as you pick up the pace. This is a great running shoe for clocking those everyday miles, whether short or long.
Best Cushioned Performance Women’s Running Shoe
HOKA Women’s Clifton Pro GLM Running Shoe
If you’re looking for a running shoe that’ll provide lots of comfort and protect your feet, the HOKA Women’s Clifton Pro GLM Running Shoe is a great choice. It’s the elevated, more performance-driven version of the class Clifton running shoe, but with the same signature feel.
The high-stack cushioning comes from the PROGLIDE+ and SCF EVA foam, which doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness (this is huge for a cushioned running shoe). Built with HOKA’s rocker geometry, you’ll experience a smooth landing and overall ride, which adds to the underfoot protection.
Best Speed Women’s Running Shoe
New Balance Women’s FuelCell Rebel v5 Running Shoe
The New Balance Women’s FuelCell Rebel v5 Running Shoe is designed for runners who crave speed, style, and responsive performance. The shoe weighs a little over 6 ounces, making it lightweight and nimble. It has medium cushioning and neutral support.
The FuelCell PEBA/EVA foam blend midsole provides high energy return, and the breathable engineered upper keeps feet cool and ventilated during intense activity. This shoe is for runners who want to stay away from anything bulky, as well as a running shoe that can support them as they push for faster speeds.
Best for Fast Daily Runs Women’s Running Shoe
Saucony Women’s Endorphin Azura Running Shoe
Here’s another running shoe suited for fast runs, though the Saucony Women’s Endorphin Azura Running Shoe is slightly heavier at 7.5 ounces. If you like to regularly go on high-paced runs, this shoe is the one for you.
It features SPEEDROLL technology to smoothly propel you forward for smooth and efficient transitions. The full PWRRUN PB midsole delivers soft, energetic cushioning that adapts to any pace, making every run feel lively. It’s also a non-plated speed shoe, which means you won’t experience any stiffness. The Endorphin Azura is certainly a speed shoe, but one that you can wear for everyday runs, not just race days.
Best for Long Runs Women’s Running Shoe
On Women’s Cloudsurfer Max Running Shoe
A shoe that’s good for long runs is one that has plenty of impact protection and comfort. Long runs do mean lots of time on your feet, after all. That being said, the On Women’s Cloudsurfer Max Running Shoe still provides a glide-like ride, which is perfect for many miles on the pavement.
Double layer CloudTec Phase cushioning paired with soft Helion foam ensures you stay comfortable. And every detail, from the breathable mesh upper to the advanced eyestay system and knitted tongue, is crafted for a secure, lightweight, and streamlined feel. Distance runners should absolutely check out this running shoe.
Best Stability Women’s Running Shoe
Brooks Women’s Ariel GTS 26 Running Shoe
You’ll get stability and motion control with the Brooks Women’s Ariel GTS 26 Running Shoe, but still comfort as well. Not everyone needs a stability shoe, but if you overpronate, use orthotics, or simply want a more stable ride, then it’s a great option.
The GuideRails support system helps maintain natural motion by providing structured support and stability, keeping feet aligned throughout each run, and the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning delivers soft, responsive comfort underfoot without sacrificing durability. Lastly, the streamlined upper offers a roomy fit that accommodates varied foot shapes or orthotics, while providing a secure lockdown for zero distractions.
Best Ultramarathon Women’s Running Shoe
Mount to Coast Women’s R1 Running Shoe
From long runs to ultramarathons, the Mount to Coast Women’s R1 Running Shoe is for you if you put on many, many miles. A good ultramarathon running shoe shouldn’t just be comfortable, but also durable to be able to handle that much wear. Additionally, it’s not just about cushioning, but rather more technical support and control.
The R1 Running Shoe has a wide toe box to let your toes relax and spread naturally during extended runs, and the TUNEDFIT Dual Lacing System lets runners independently adjust the forefoot and midfoot for a personalized secure fit. The midsole is made of LightCELL Supercritical Foam with ZeroSag inserts for a cushioned performance with minimal degradation over extended mileage.
Best Daily Lightweight Women’s Running Shoe
HOKA Women’s Mach 7 Running Shoe
Designed with a light-on-your-feet feel, the HOKA Women’s Mach 7 Running Shoe delivers energetic cushioning that helps make each stride feel quick and efficient. Notability, it’s quite lightweight, clocking in at slightly over 7 ounces, which will make it feel super agile.
You’ll get all the same comfort and cushioning that you’d expect from a HOKA running shoe, but without any of that bulky feeling. The supercritical foam midsole is responsive, and it also has a lower-profile style, which lends to its lightweight aspect.
Best Low-Drop Women’s Running Shoe
Altra Women’s Experience Flow 3 Running Shoe
A low-drop running shoe means there’s a smaller height difference between the heel and toe of the running shoe. The Altra Women’s Experience Flow 3 Running Shoe has a 4 mm drop, which definitely fits the bill. Yes, there are zero-drop running shoes as well, but this running shoe is a great entry into low-drop shoes, making it slightly more versatile too.
The roomy FootShape toe box supports your feet’s natural spread, and the rocker geometry encourages smooth toe-off and an efficient stride. Plus, the lightweight Altra EGO P35 midsole delivers responsive cushioning and energy return. Overall, low-drop running shoes can allow for a more natural stride and foot positioning.
Best Responsive Women’s Running Shoe
On Women’s Cloudmonster 3 Running Shoe
With a name like Cloudmonster, you know this running shoe is going to deliver on not just cushioning, but bounce. What is a bouncy running shoe exactly? It’s one that’s going to feel springy and energetic, as opposed to purely soft. The On Women’s Cloudmonster 3 is that shoe.
A few things make this running shoe so bouncy. First there’s the triple layer CloudTec cushioning for impact absorption and energetic responsiveness. Then there’s the integrated Speedboard technology for smooth forward roll and powerful toe-off. Lastly, the Helium Superfoam balances soft comfort with dynamic rebound.
Women's Running Shoe FAQs
What makes the perfect running shoe for women?
Honestly, there is no one shoe size that fits all, considering everyone has their own unique stride, run distance, and personal preferences when it comes to running. So if you are just looking for a solid all-round daily trainer, a shoe with a lot of cushion and a good amount of responsiveness like the ASICS Novablast 6 is probably a pretty safe bet. If however you are after a shoe that will help you run a certain way or provide some specific attributes, then you might be better off looking for one that is built with those things in mind - which is basically the way this list is structured.
Whats the difference between cushioned and stability running shoes?
Cushioning shoes are all about trying to make your run feel a bit softer on your joints, with lots of protective foam under your feet to help absorb impacts. They tend to be perfect for the more neutral runners and longer distances. Stability shoes add a bit of extra support to try and help control how much your foot moves around on each step. If you have a tendency to overpronate and your foot starts to roll inwards more than its supposed to, then a stability shoe like Brooks GuideRails with some structured support might be a better fit for you.
How can I tell if I need stability running shoes?
Stability shoes are basically for runners who have a bit of an overpronation problem, which is when your foot rolls inwards a bit too much each time you step. Some of the signs of overpronation can include uneven wear on the soles of your shoes or a history of shin or knee discomfort. If you use orthotics or just want a bit of extra support in your shoes, then a stability shoe might be worth checking out - and one of our Outdoor Experts can help you figure out a good fit.
What are low-drop running shoes?
Drop refers to how much difference there is between the height of your heel and toe in your running shoes. A low drop shoe like the Altra Experience Flow 3 at 4mm is basically keeping your foot in a flat, normal position, rather than the more traditional trainer with a bigger height difference between heel and toe. Putting your foot in a more natural position can encourage you to run a bit more naturally and they can be a good way in if you want to try out the style without going all the way to zero-drop.
How often should I actually replace my running shoes?
The lifespan of a pair of running shoes can vary between 300 and 500 miles, depending on the shoe, how you run, and what surfaces you are running on. You should also be on the lookout for signs that your midsole is starting to go, such as flattened cushioning, worn out tread, or new aches after runs. One trick is to rotate between two pairs of shoes - not only will this help each one last a bit longer, but it will also give you a bit of extra time to get used to running in your new shoes.
Time to Get Running
Whether you're wanting to dip your toes into low-drop running shoes or are training for longer and longer runs, all of these are solid options among the best running shoes for women for your specific wants and needs. Or, perhaps you’re just looking for a great overall daily trainer as you pick up running. Either way, you’ve got a great selection to choose from. Stop by a Sun & Ski Sports location and let one of our Outdoor Experts help you find your next best running shoe, or visit us online and get shopping today.