10 Best Running Shoe For Women 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is designed to offer strong support and comfort for women runners who need stability during their runs. Its standout feature is the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which feels soft and lightweight, making long runs more comfortable without adding extra weight. The Guiderails Holistic Support System helps keep your feet aligned by limiting excess movement, which is great if you tend to overpronate or want extra stability. The shoe weighs about 1.5 pounds, which is moderate and should feel neither too heavy nor too light for most runners.

The engineered air mesh upper provides a good balance of breathability and stretch, so your feet stay cool and the fit adapts nicely without feeling tight or loose. Brooks typically maintains a moderate heel-to-toe drop, which helps with smoother transitions from heel to toe when running. The outsole design aims to provide dependable traction for a variety of surfaces, though serious trail runners might want something more aggressive.

The fit is described as medium width, so those with very narrow or wide feet might want to try them on first. Additionally, the shoe carries important health certifications like the APMA seal and diabetic shoe approval, highlighting its supportive qualities. This shoe suits runners looking for reliable support, cushioned comfort, and a breathable fit for everyday training and longer distances.

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe stands out with its Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides impressive cushioning, making it very comfortable for long runs. This shoe uses around 3% bio-based content in its midsole, showing a commitment to reducing environmental impact. It also has a gusseted tongue to keep debris out, which is a thoughtful feature for various running environments.

The no-sew overlays and synthetic, engineered mesh upper contribute to a lightweight and breathable design, which enhances comfort during runs. Additionally, the adjustable lace closure allows for a customized fit, crucial for comfort and support during running sessions.

Given its features, this shoe seems well-suited for those seeking comfort and breathability in their running shoes.

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is a great choice for women looking for a neutral running shoe with plush cushioning. It uses advanced DNA Tuned midsole technology that offers a soft landing with larger cells in the heel and a responsive push-off in the forefoot, which helps make running feel smooth and energetic. The shoe provides maximum cushioning without extra support, making it ideal for road running, cross training, or gym workouts. Its broad platform and tuned heel improve stability and help your foot transition smoothly from heel to toe.

The fit is accommodating thanks to a new double jacquard knit upper, which also improves breathability, keeping your feet cool during runs. While the shoe is designed to be durable, the lightweight polyester and rubber sole help keep it comfortable without feeling heavy on your feet. Traction seems suitable for road surfaces but might not be ideal for trail running since it’s focused on urban and gym wear. Since it’s a neutral shoe, it works best if you don’t need extra arch support or correction. For those needing added support, Brooks offers other models with that feature.

The Glycerin 22 delivers a soft, breathable, and stable running experience for runners prioritizing comfort and smooth transitions.