The best running shoes for 2025, tested in the lab and on the road

The year 2025 has brought a surge of innovation in running shoes—brands are blending cutting-edge foam tech, sustainable materials, and biomechanical insights like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a weekend jogger, or just starting your couch-to-5K journey, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. At Runner’s Choice Lab, we tested over 60 of the latest models in our biomechanics lab and racked up thousands of collective miles on roads, trails, and treadmills.

From max-cushioned cruisers to lightweight race-day rockets, this guide features our top picks in every category. Every shoe listed here underwent rigorous testing, including:

• Gait analysis

• Midsole rebound measurement

• Upper fit under stress

• Traction in wet and dry conditions

Let’s dive into the best running shoes for 2025—objectively tested and field-proven.

Best Overall Running Shoe: Nike Pegasus Turbo Plus 2025

Weight: 8.4 oz (Men’s)
Drop: 10mm
Price: ₹12,999 / $130
Best for: Daily training, long runs, tempo work

The Pegasus Turbo Plus 2025 is Nike’s long-awaited return to a beloved lineage. Featuring an updated ZoomX-PWR foam blend, the shoe strikes a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. The midsole is now slightly firmer than the original Turbo but significantly more stable, making it versatile enough for tempo runs and marathon distances.

Pros ✅

• Springy, smooth ride

• Lightweight for daily use

• Durable outsole rubber

Cons ❌

• Pricey compared to standard Pegasus

• Not ideal for trails

Tester quote:
“The Turbo Plus nailed it. It’s the shoe I reach for when I don’t know what kind of run I’ll do—it handles everything.”

Best Cushioning: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27

Weight: 10.3 oz
Drop: 8mm
Price: ₹14,500 / $160
Best for: Long distance, recovery days

The Gel-Nimbus 27 takes plush to the next level. The FF BLAST+ ECO foam, paired with ASICS’ iconic GEL units, provides a cloud-like experience underfoot. The upper is redesigned with a breathable mesh that cradles the foot without excess pressure.

Pros ✅

• Supreme comfort for long runs

• Great for injury-prone runners

• Excellent heel lockdown

Cons ❌

• Slightly heavy

• Less responsive for speed work

Best for Speed Work: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5

Weight: 7.2 oz
Drop: 6.5mm
Price: ₹18,999 / $250
Best for: Racing, tempo runs, intervals

Adidas continues to push performance boundaries with the Adios Pro 5. Featuring a dual-layer Lightstrike Pro midsole and carbon-infused ENERGYRODS 3.0, this shoe is a rocket on race day. Lab testing showed outstanding propulsion and efficiency during toe-off.

Pros ✅

• Snappy ride with serious speed

• Locked-in race fit

• Lightweight and breathable

Cons ❌

• Too aggressive for casual runners

• Narrow toe box

Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v13

Weight: 10.2 oz
Drop: 6mm
Price: ₹13,200 / $160
Best for: Daily training, high-mileage runners

New Balance delivers comfort and stability with the Fresh Foam 1080v13, particularly in its wide and extra-wide versions. The full-length Fresh Foam X midsole feels luxurious while maintaining a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

Pros ✅

• Excellent fit for wide-footed runners

• Durable and versatile

• Plush but not mushy

Cons ❌

• Slightly heavier

• Midsole lacks pop for speed work

Best Stability Shoe: Brooks Glycerin GTS 21

Weight: 10.4 oz
Drop: 10mm
Price: ₹13,500 / $160
Best for: Runners needing support, overpronators

Built with Brooks’ GuideRails technology, the Glycerin GTS 21 offers soft cushioning while keeping your stride aligned. It’s a top pick for runners who overpronate or want a touch of extra support without sacrificing plushness.

Pros ✅

• Soft, stable ride

• Seamless upper

• Great for long miles

Cons ❌

• Not ideal for racing

• Slightly bulky for faster workouts

Best Budget Running Shoe: Puma Velocity Nitro 3

Weight: 9.1 oz
Drop: 8mm
Price: ₹8,500 / $110
Best for: Beginners, daily runs, gym use

Puma’s Velocity Nitro 3 punches well above its price tag. The NITRO foam offers great rebound, and the PUMAGRIP outsole holds steady on wet roads. It’s a reliable and comfortable shoe for runners on a budget.

Pros ✅

• Excellent value

• Great grip

• Comfortable upper

Cons ❌

• Not as durable as pricier models

• Lacks race-day performance features

Best Trail Running Shoe: Hoka Speedgoat 6

Weight: 9.5 oz
Drop: 4mm
Price: ₹14,000 / $155
Best for: Technical trails, ultra-distances

The Speedgoat 6 maintains its trail dominance in 2025 with an upgraded Vibram Megagrip outsole and a tweaked upper for better breathability. Our testers praised its stability and comfort during long mountain runs.

Pros ✅

• Grippy and secure on all terrain

• Comfortable for long distances

• Toe protection is excellent

Cons ❌

• Not for road use

• Break-in period needed

Honorable Mentions

• Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 – A fast, nylon-plated trainer for versatile speed work.

• On Cloudmonster 2 – Bouncy yet structured, great for mid-distance runs.

• Reebok Floatride Energy X 2 – Lightweight, budget-friendly plated shoe.

Sustainability Spotlight 🌱

Brands are getting greener. In our tests, these shoes stood out for eco-conscious materials:

• Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 – 100% carbon-neutral

• Nike InfinityRN 5 – Partially recycled Flyknit

• Adidas Ultraboost Light – Made with Parley Ocean Plastic

Ratings Summary 🏅

Final Thoughts

2025 has proven to be a landmark year in running shoe innovation. Whether you prioritize plush cushioning, racing speed, or trail-ready traction, there’s a shoe built for your goals and stride. The right pair can transform your run from average to outstanding.

Still not sure? Visit a local store for gait analysis or take advantage of brands with 30-day return policies to find your perfect fit.