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10 Best Men's Neutral Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Black/Ebony - 11 Medium

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,376
Cushioning
Fit and Sizing
Breathability

Most important from
1472 reviews

Cushioning
The cushioning is soft but not too squishy, providing a smooth and responsive ride.
Fit and Sizing
The fit is perfect—true to size with just the right amount of room in the toe box.
Breathability
The breathability keeps feet cool even on long runs.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is designed for runners seeking a smooth, comfortable experience. One of its standout features is the soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which provides lightweight comfort suitable for various activities like road running, walking, and gym workouts. The shoe also offers neutral support, making it versatile for those without specific support needs.

The engineered air mesh upper enhances breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and comfortable during runs. The Segmented Crash Pad in the midsole promotes smooth transitions from landing to toe-off, contributing to a distraction-free running experience. The Roadtack rubber outsole, made with recycled silica, is durable and lightweight, providing good rebound and longevity. However, some might find that the cushioning, while soft, is not as responsive as other options, potentially affecting performance for high-intensity running.

The fit and sizing are enhanced by the 3D Fit Print, which offers a secure, seamless fit, but it’s essential to try them on to ensure they match your specific foot shape. At 1.17 pounds, the shoes are reasonably lightweight, although not the lightest available. The shoe's carbon-neutral certification is a plus for environmentally conscious buyers. In summary, the Brooks Ghost 16 is a solid choice for neutral runners looking for comfort, durability, and a smooth ride, though those needing more responsive cushioning might look elsewhere.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,376
Cushioning
Fit and Sizing
Breathability

Most important from
1472 reviews

Cushioning
The cushioning is soft but not too squishy, providing a smooth and responsive ride.
Fit and Sizing
The fit is perfect—true to size with just the right amount of room in the toe box.
Breathability
The breathability keeps feet cool even on long runs.
#2

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10, (400) Academy/Academy/White, 9, US

Rating
9.6
Cushioning
Weight
Fit and Sizing

Most important from
13022 reviews

Cushioning
A stylish yet non-flashy comfortable shoe for everyday casual wear, feels good from morning till night.
Weight
Lightweight and versatile, perfect for all-purpose gym training.
Fit and Sizing
Very comfortable and wider than most shoes, offering great quality for the price.
Durability
Supremely comfy and appear to stand the test of time, still looking as new as ever after nearly 6 months.

The Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10 is designed for neutral runners who need a combination of cushioning, flexibility, and durability. One of its standout features is the Charged Cushioning midsole, which uses compression molded foam to provide excellent responsiveness and durability. This ensures a comfortable run with good support. Additionally, the shoes have a solid rubber outsole that covers high impact zones, adding to their durability without making them too heavy.

Weighing 9.5 oz., these shoes are relatively lightweight, which is ideal for running. The 10mm heel-to-toe drop offers a standard offset that balances cushioning and stability. The breathable mesh upper, combined with synthetic overlays, helps keep your feet cool while providing additional support. However, some users might find the fit a bit tight, so it could be worth considering a half size up. Also, the EVA sockliner adds an extra layer of comfort for a better step-in feel. One drawback to note is the warning about exposure to chromium compounds, which may be a concern for some users.

These shoes are a solid choice for neutral runners looking for a versatile and durable option that also ensures good breathability. Just be mindful of the fit and the chemical exposure warning.

Rating
9.6
Cushioning
Weight
Fit and Sizing

Most important from
13022 reviews

Cushioning
A stylish yet non-flashy comfortable shoe for everyday casual wear, feels good from morning till night.
Weight
Lightweight and versatile, perfect for all-purpose gym training.
Fit and Sizing
Very comfortable and wider than most shoes, offering great quality for the price.
Durability
Supremely comfy and appear to stand the test of time, still looking as new as ever after nearly 6 months.
#3

Brooks Men’s Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Black/Ebony - 10 Medium

Rating
9.3
Cushioning
Weight
Fit and Sizing

Most important from
1158 reviews

Cushioning
Significant improvement in leg muscle comfort compared to other shoes.
Weight
Amazing support, lightweight, and super durable, earning great value for the price.
Fit and Sizing
The wide fit is truly wide, offering no pinching and ensuring comfort.
Durability
Colors remain vibrant even after multiple washes, with all padding intact.
Breathability
Ideal for long shifts on hard floors, offering unmatched comfort and breathability.

The Brooks Men’s Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe is an excellent choice for those seeking supreme comfort during their runs. The standout feature is the super-soft nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which offers a plush feel without adding extra weight, promising a comfortable experience even during long runs. The shoe provides neutral support, making it versatile for road running, cross-training, or gym workouts. The heel-to-toe transitions are smooth and stable, thanks to the broad platform design that stabilizes the foot.

The internal stretch bootie and warp knit upper ensure a flexible, accommodating fit that adapts to your movement, enhancing comfort. Durability is addressed with the robust rubber sole and quality construction, meaning the shoes should last through many miles of use. Breathability is also a strong point, with the engineered mesh upper allowing airflow to keep your feet cool.

However, these shoes might feel a bit heavy compared to some other running shoes on the market, weighing around 2 pounds for the pair. Additionally, while the shoe's plushness is a benefit for most, it may not suit those who prefer a firmer, more responsive feel. The Brooks Glycerin 21 is ideal for runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort on their runs.

Rating
9.3
Cushioning
Weight
Fit and Sizing

Most important from
1158 reviews

Cushioning
Significant improvement in leg muscle comfort compared to other shoes.
Weight
Amazing support, lightweight, and super durable, earning great value for the price.
Fit and Sizing
The wide fit is truly wide, offering no pinching and ensuring comfort.
Durability
Colors remain vibrant even after multiple washes, with all padding intact.
Breathability
Ideal for long shifts on hard floors, offering unmatched comfort and breathability.

Buying Guide for the Best Men's Neutral Running Shoes

Choosing the right pair of men's neutral running shoes is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Neutral running shoes are designed for runners with a neutral gait, meaning their feet do not roll excessively inward (overpronation) or outward (underpronation) when they run. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your running needs and preferences.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe, which impacts comfort and shock absorption. It's important because it can reduce the impact on your joints and muscles during runs. Cushioning levels can range from minimal to maximum. Minimal cushioning is lighter and allows for a more natural feel, suitable for experienced runners or those who prefer a closer ground feel. Moderate cushioning offers a balance of comfort and responsiveness, ideal for most runners. Maximum cushioning provides the most comfort and shock absorption, perfect for long-distance runners or those who need extra support.
Heel-to-Toe DropThe heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of the shoe. This spec is important because it affects your running form and how your foot strikes the ground. A high drop (8-12mm) promotes a heel-strike running style and can be more comfortable for those used to traditional running shoes. A medium drop (4-8mm) encourages a midfoot strike and is a good middle ground for most runners. A low drop (0-4mm) promotes a forefoot strike and is often preferred by runners who favor a more natural running style. Choose a drop that matches your running form and comfort preference.
WeightThe weight of the shoe can influence your running efficiency and speed. Lighter shoes (under 9 ounces) are generally preferred for racing and speed workouts as they allow for quicker movements and less fatigue. Medium-weight shoes (9-11 ounces) offer a balance of lightness and durability, suitable for everyday training. Heavier shoes (over 11 ounces) often provide more cushioning and support, making them ideal for long-distance runs or recovery days. Consider your running goals and the type of runs you do most frequently when choosing the weight of your shoes.
Fit and SizingFit and sizing are crucial for comfort and performance. A well-fitting shoe should have enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, a snug fit around the midfoot, and a secure heel. It's important to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit. Consider the width of your feet as well; some brands offer different width options. Always prioritize comfort and ensure there are no pressure points or areas of discomfort when trying on shoes.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the shoes will last before they need to be replaced. This is important because it affects the overall value and longevity of the shoes. Durable shoes are typically made with high-quality materials and reinforced in high-wear areas like the outsole and upper. If you run frequently or on rough terrain, look for shoes with a durable outsole and sturdy construction. For casual or occasional runners, durability might be less of a concern, but it's still worth considering to get the most out of your investment.
BreathabilityBreathability is the shoe's ability to allow air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important for comfort, especially during long runs or in hot weather. Shoes with good breathability typically have mesh or perforated uppers that allow for better airflow. If you tend to run in warm climates or have sweaty feet, prioritize shoes with high breathability. For colder climates, you might prefer shoes with less breathability to keep your feet warmer.

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