The Top 5 Running Shoes of 2024, So Far

After testing dozens of pairs of everyday running shoes released in the first half of 2024, our expert shoe reviewer Alex Cyr has selected the best trainers for easy runs and long runs, and then ranked them from five to one. He tells us why he selected each featured running shoe, what are their main strengths, and which ones score for being lightest, most durable for running high mileage, and which is the most comfortable everyday trainer. Yes, the most trusted models from Hoka, Brooks, Asics, Nike and New Balance shoes made the cut, but the best running shoe of 2025 (so far!) might surprise you!

0:00 - 0:45: Intro
0:45 - 2:10 - Hoka Clifton 9
2:10 - 3:35 - Asics Gel Nimbus 26
3:35 - 4:57 - Brooks Glycerin 21
4:57 - 6:14 - New Balance 880 v14
6:14 - 7:57 - Nike Invincible Run 3
7:57 - 8:42 - Outro

🔴 Watch our shoe review playlist:

Reviewer: Alex Cyr

Check out our other recent shoe reviews:

Brooks Ghost 16 Review:

On Cloudmonster 2 Review:

Hoka Skyward X Review:

Lululemon Beyondfeel Review:

Hoka One One Cielo X1 Review:

Nike Alphafly 3 Review:

Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 Review:

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[johnng]

I have the glycerin 19 and ran the Seattle marathon with no soreness and blisters. It’s level five cushioning, sock like fit upper, and love how it feels.

[jesusoyervides]

I would not recommend the Hoka Clifton to anyone! I’ve had three pairs that have lasted me less than 5 months each, and have really did damage to my feet because of them. The heel is way too high and the heel cushion crumbles so quickly and you are stomping instead of running! It also makes you lose muscle on the front of your feet. Do not get these shoes!

[chuckygolf]

Nike Invincible 1 is still my go to easy run shoe, wonderful for half marathon distance on gravel/ paths. Only around 150-200 miles on them, currently trialling the NB rebels v4 which are very similiar but i reluctantly had to return as the UK 9 were too small.

[znoueihed]

Thank you for the review Alex...
I use Cliftons, but recently tried (in the store) and was impressed with the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13. Just wondering why you picked the 880 over the 1080v13, thanks

[johnng]

I ran with adidas, Nike, asics and brooks. The glycerins are my favorite for cushion and fit. It’s a neutral shoe which means the runner is not an under pronator or over pronator who might benefit from a stability shoe.

[dustinjohnson]

What race day shoe would you recommend for someone who is going to run their first half marathon. Current daily rotation guide 17/ brooks adrenaline 23 and hoka Clifton 8/9s. I’m a heavier runner at. 280lbs and 6ft 4”. Looking forward to your input

[K_Sonn]

Dang, I never thought about trying the 880. I was just at NB store yesterday to try the 1080v13 on and while I like the it's very squishy, I almost felt like I was on high heels lol. It's not stable at all, or I should have tried wider foot version?! Btw, do you happen have adidas ultra boost 22? I bought a pair a few months ago because of all the hypes, but I find it's very stiff, or it takes time to break in? I have 1080v11 and Clifton 8 and they both are so soft on feet compared to UB22

[SXLAR.]

Hey! I just have a question about my personal pair of running shoes. Can you compare my shoes (the under armor charged assert 10) to any of these shoes? Most specifically the brooks glycerin because i think they will be the ones for me. Thanks!

[vince]

thanks for your top five! With regards to the invincible 3, I was put off by the many reviews that said the shoes had heel slip issues and were heavy. You didn't experience those issues?

[silvermandavid]

If they have a carbon plate, they're not training shoes? Is the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp *Trainer* not a training shoe?

[christopherguerrero]

Any recommendations for someone who likes a widetoebox, zero drop shoe? I currently run with topo athletic and I really like them, but I’d like to try out some other shoes that are out there. Personally Not a fan of altras.

[jrjtrujillo]

Thanks for the review, I always think I want to try a new running shoe so I watch these reviews but then I just can't part with my Hoka Mach 5's. About ready to get the Mach 6.. just waiting till I actually need a pair not just want a pair 😆 I'm sad the Mach didn't make your list. Curious if you've tried it. Cheers!

[eloy]

The NEw Balance Rebel V4 is on sale
I wanna know if this is a good shoe for LSD

[hp]

You should consider the new balance Balos. It's a game changer. At least for me. 1080 v13 are great and so are the cloud eclipse for long runs.

[pinedadam]

The Hoka Clifton 9 feels firm and not soft like my first actual pair, ASICS Gel Nimbus 25, for my first run. Also it is more narrow, should I wait and run in it more or should I return.

[icrackd]

gladiator mentioned, liked and subbed.

[LuckyLuke]

Overall good video. I like your picks but disagree on the Glycerines. My pair didn’t last nearly as long as my Gel Nimbus.

[icecreammochi]

how do the 880v14s fit length and width wise?

[Robzabest]

tahts true invincible 3 somehow killed my feet first two runs, front calves were burning and even when I walked after the run still so heavy, after 3rd long run the squishiness of foam was activated and actual

[snugzgiddens]

If you’re running on pavement the invincible run 3 will wear out fairly fast from my experience