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Gear and Technology

How to choose running shoes

13th October, 2020 | By Brooks Staff
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No two runners run alike. So which running shoe should I buy? Your preferences, natural stride, body type, skills and experience are all unique to you — and  while that's awesome, it can also pose a challenge as your look for the right shoe.

Fortunately, we know a thing or two about matchmaking. To find your best running shoe, use these questions as a guide. It's more fun than setting up a dating profile. (And bonus: shoes will never ghost you.)

Where do you prefer to run?

Whether you're hitting the road or tackling the trail, you need a shoe that's built for the specific challenges of your environment.

Road shoes are lighter weight, with responsive cushion to soften your landing on hard concrete or cement.

By contrast, trail shoes tend to be more heavy-duty, with built-in protection from rocks and debris and more stability to counter uneven terrain.

How do you want your shoes to feel?

"Comfort" means something different to everyone. We want to match you with a shoe that feels good to you. So consider which of these categories aligns with your goals and running style.

Our Cushion collection is built to absorb impact for a soft landing and steady push-off. Perfect for runners who want to feel clouds beneath their feet.

Our Energize shoes are designed to give you back the energy you put into each stride. For a springy toe-off and a little more pep in each step, these are a great fit. 

Our Speed category features the sports cars of the speed running shoe world. Light and fast, these models are just right if you plan to push the limits of pace and time. 

Illustration of runner’s legs, mid-stride, landing on a cloud

What are your support needs?

Your body has a preferred motion path — the way your joints and muscles naturally want to move with every step you take. To maximise comfort and reduce the risk of injury, the right shoe will help your body maintain its natural motion. With the upcoming information you will know the difference between neutral and stability running shoes!

A neutral running shoe

Neutral runners move the same way off the run as they do on the run. Their bodies stay in their preferred motion path without added guidance. If you are a neutral runner, you will benefit plenty from a neutral running shoe.  

You may be a neutral runner if:

  • The wear pattern in your shoes is consistent indicating you distribute your weight evenly with each step. 
  • Your feet and knees align as you run, tracking straight ahead.
  • Your knees stay parallel when you do a simple squat. 

Running shoes with support

Support runners experience excess joint movement as they run. To help, we created GuideRails® support technology, designed to keep knees and hips in alignment. Think of GuideRails like the bumpers in bowling — out of the way when you're on course, and gently nudging you back if you deviate. 

Illustration of a Brooks shoe with GuideRails® technology highlighted in yellow.

You may be a support runner if:

  • There is excessive wear on the inside edge of your shoes, indicating lateral movement in your stride. 
  • Your feet and knees don't track perfectly straight as you run.
  • Your knees rotate inward when you do a simple squat.

A final note on support:

Whatever your natural stride looks like, all runners need extra support off-road. So while your trail shoes aren't defined as "neutral" or "support" — they don't have GuideRails technology – they all offer that essential stability.

Which running shoes are best for me?

Tally your answers for terrain, preferred experience, and support style, then take a look at our suggestions here. Fortunately, there are many different types of running shoes. 

Close-up on two runners' legs at toe-off
Illustration of arrow with a long arm, mimicking the path of a ball bouncing.

Energize 

Road | Neutral

Levitate Our best energy return for a super springy ride

Ricochet Max energy return served light and bold

Revel Styles to perform, with energy to spare

Road | Support

Levitate GTS Our best energy return and support

Illustrated arrow following a path in the shape of a fluffy cloud

Cushion

Road | Neutral

Glycerin The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort

Ghost An award-winning favourite, loved for its soft, smooth ride

Road | Support 

Transcend Maximum cushioning with industry-leading support

Adrenaline GTS Our legendary support shoe offers a smooth, balanced ride

Illustrated arrows all pointing forward, branching out from the same line

Speed

Road | Neutral

Hyperion Elite Our fastest racing shoe ever, with our most advanced technology

Hyperion Tempo Our fastest trainer, designed to keep you running faster for longer

Launch Lightweight with a fun, snappy ride

Road | Support

Ravenna Fast and light with industry-leading support

Two runners ascend a mountain trail, with hills behind them.
Illustrated arrow following a path in the shape of mountainous terrain

Trail

Trail | Cushion

Divide Traction and protection to bridge runners from road to trail

Cascadia Rule the trail with cushioned, durable protection and stability

Cascadia GTX Cushioned, durable protection with a waterproof exterior

Trail | Energize 

Caldera Excellent traction and responsive cushion on any terrain

Catamount Lightweight cushioning and top-notch traction for high-speed miles

Which running shoe to choose: Personalised advice

Now that you're familiar with our range, check out our Shoe Finder! It's a great interactive tool that can give you even more detailed results. And it only takes five minutes.

Or, get some personal help when you stop by a local running shop. They will surely be able to tell you everything about the countless different types of running shoes. You can talk to an expert about your specific needs and concerns — plus try on different shoes and see what feels best. 

Treat ‘em

However you pick your pair, make sure shoes have a long, happy life by taking good care of them. Check out some pointers on how to maintain your trainers. 

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