10 Best Women Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe offers a commendable running experience with its Fresh Foam X midsole providing exceptional cushioning. This feature ensures a high level of comfort, making it suitable for long runs. The bio-based content in the midsole shows a commitment to sustainability, which is a plus for eco-conscious runners.

The shoe's fit can be adjusted easily with its lace closure, and the gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, which is especially useful for outdoor running. The synthetic and engineered mesh upper enhances breathability, helping to keep your feet cool and dry during runs. However, the shoe might not be suitable for those who require significant arch support since there is no specific feature addressing this.

Additionally, the heel-to-toe drop is not mentioned, which might be a concern for runners who prefer a specific drop for their running style. Durability should be solid due to the rubber outer and sole materials, but the no-sew overlays might not provide enough support for some runners. This shoe is ideal for runners seeking comfort and breathability with an eco-friendly edge, but those needing specific arch support or a particular heel-to-toe drop might need to look elsewhere.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a great choice for women looking for a comfortable, everyday running shoe that works well for running, walking, and cross-training. It offers a neutral fit with a medium width (9 Medium) and pays attention to arch support, making it suitable for various foot shapes. The cushioning uses Brooks’ DNA Loft v3 technology, which is soft, lightweight, and provides a smooth feel, especially with extra cushioning added in the heel and forefoot—this helps reduce impact and keeps your feet comfortable on longer runs.

The heel-to-toe drop is designed to encourage natural foot movement and smooth transitions, which can help maintain a steady pace without strain. Breathability is handled well by the engineered mesh upper, which allows good airflow to keep feet cool and dry, while the shoe adapts comfortably to your foot’s shape. Durability is boosted by a rubber outsole made with recycled materials, offering solid grip and responsiveness on different surfaces without adding much weight. One standout feature is the shoe’s certification for diabetic use and acceptance by a podiatry association, which shows extra attention to foot health and comfort.

The shoe’s cushioning might feel too soft for runners who prefer a firmer or more performance-focused ride, and the medium width might not suit those with very narrow or wide feet. Heavier runners might also want more robust support. This shoe is well suited for women seeking a reliable, cushioned, and breathable option for daily running and general fitness activities.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is designed for runners seeking a smooth, comfortable running experience without distractions. It features an updated 3D Fit Print that adapts well to your foot shape, providing a secure fit and stability while maintaining a lightweight feel. This model is particularly well suited for neutral runners, as it does not include extra arch support or corrective features, making it ideal for those with normal arches. The cushioning uses Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, offering softness and responsiveness to keep feet comfortable over longer runs or walks.

The heel-to-toe drop supports smooth transitions during running, allowing natural foot landing and lift. Breathability is enhanced by an engineered air mesh upper that ensures good airflow to keep feet cool and dry. Durability is supported by the RoadTack rubber outsole, which combines recycled materials to be both tough and lightweight. Weighing approximately 1.5 pounds per shoe, it balances sturdiness with a manageable weight. Additionally, it is certified as a diabetic-friendly shoe and carries the APMA Seal of Acceptance, indicating strong support for overall foot health.

It is worth noting that if extra arch support or more aggressive stability features are needed, this shoe might feel somewhat basic. While it performs well for road running and gym activities, it is not designed for trail running or rough terrain. The Ghost 16 represents a reliable and breathable option for everyday runners who prefer a neutral running style and value comfort.