10 Best Men Athletic Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is designed for men who run or walk regularly and want strong support and comfort. Its standout feature is the GuideRails holistic support system, which helps keep your feet aligned and reduces excess movement, making it a good choice if you need extra arch support or stability. The cushioning is soft and responsive thanks to Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 technology, providing a plush feel without being heavy.

Buyers generally find the fit true to size, with a breathable mesh upper that keeps feet cool and snug, while the flat-knit collar adds flexibility without sacrificing support. Weighing about 10.6 ounces, it’s lightweight enough for longer activities without feeling bulky. The outsole and midsole work together for smooth transitions in your stride, enhancing comfort mile after mile. This shoe is also recognized for its health benefits, holding certifications like the APMA Seal of Acceptance and being suitable for diabetic feet, which speaks to its quality and focus on foot health.

On the downside, it is not water-resistant, so it might not be the best option for wet conditions. Some might find it less durable if used extensively on rough terrain since the materials prioritize comfort and breathability. If you want a reliable, well-cushioned running or walking shoe with excellent support and a secure fit, the Adrenaline GTS 25 is worth considering.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable footwear for hiking activities. It combines a suede leather and mesh upper, which provides decent breathability while keeping the shoe sturdy. The cushioning is quite good thanks to the lightweight EVA foam midsole and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which helps absorb shock and adds stability on uneven trails. If you need arch support, this shoe has a molded nylon arch shank and a contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning, making it comfortable for medium arch types.

The fit is true to size and generally comfortable, with a bellows tongue design that helps keep out debris like dirt and small stones – a practical feature for outdoor use. Durability is strong here due to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole and protective toe cap, so the shoe can handle rough terrains well. However, the shoe is not water resistant, which might be a drawback if you often hike in wet conditions. At a little under one kilogram, it’s reasonably lightweight for a hiking shoe, helping reduce foot fatigue during longer walks.

This shoe is designed more for spring or dry weather hiking. It is a dependable hiking shoe with good cushioning, support, and durability that suits most casual to moderate hikers.

The Brooks Men’s Glycerin 22 is designed for neutral runners looking for maximum cushioning and a smooth ride. Its standout feature is the DNA Tuned midsole, which blends different sized cushioning cells to give soft landings and energetic toe-offs, making it great for road running, gym workouts, or cross training. The shoe offers neutral support, so it’s best suited for runners who don’t need extra arch or stability control.

The fit is comfortable and flexible thanks to the double jacquard knit upper, which also helps keep your feet cool with good breathability. The broad platform and tuned heel improve stability and create smooth transitions from heel to toe, enhancing comfort during longer runs. Durability is solid with a rubber sole and sturdy materials, but the shoe might feel slightly heavier than some minimalist options, which is common for heavily cushioned shoes.

This model has diabetic shoe certification and the APMA seal, indicating it’s a good choice for those needing extra foot care. If you need extra arch support or corrective features, you might want to look at other models like the Glycerin GTS 22. This shoe is a reliable, cushioned, and breathable option for runners seeking comfort and smoothness rather than targeted support or ultra-lightweight design.