10 Best Womens Long Distance Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe is an excellent choice for long-distance running, offering several key features that enhance performance and comfort. Its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides lightweight and plush comfort, adapting to your stride for a smooth experience. This makes it particularly suitable for runners who value superior cushioning in their shoes. Additionally, the innovative GuideRails Holistic Support System offers excellent arch support by maintaining your natural motion path and minimizing excessive movement, which can be beneficial for those with overpronation issues or seeking extra stability.

The shoe's fit is designed to be accommodating, thanks to its engineered air mesh upper, which ensures breathability and proper stretch, adding to its comfort during extended runs. At 1.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which helps in reducing fatigue over long distances. Durability is another strong point, with the rubber outer and sole materials promising a long-lasting performance. However, the shoe may require hand washing, which could be seen as a slight inconvenience for some users. Also, while the breathable mesh upper is great for ventilation, those running in wet or cold conditions might find it less suitable.

This shoe is ideal for women looking for supportive, cushioned, and breathable running shoes for long-distance running, especially if they need additional arch support and stability.

The ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 9 is a solid choice for long-distance runners looking for good cushioning and comfort. It uses rearfoot GEL technology to help absorb impact, which means your feet feel softer with each step—important for reducing fatigue on longer runs. The shoe's jacquard mesh upper enhances breathability by letting air flow through, keeping your feet cooler during extended activity. Thanks to the OrthoLite sockliner, the inside feels comfortable right away, adding to the overall cushioning.

Support-wise, the synthetic stitching overlays provide decent stability around the foot, which is helpful if you need moderate arch support, although those with very high or low arches might want to try them on first. The flex grooves in the outsole make the shoe more flexible, allowing a natural foot movement. At about 1.44 pounds, the shoe is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for endurance running where heavy shoes can tire you out. The rubber sole adds to durability, so these shoes should hold up well over time.

Fit can vary by foot shape, so trying them on is recommended. The arch support is moderate, so if you require strong arch correction, you might need additional insoles. Also, while the mesh provides good airflow, it may not protect well against wet conditions. The ASICS Gel-Contend 9 offers comfortable cushioning, decent support, and breathability, making it a good option for many women who run long distances and want a reliable, reasonably lightweight shoe without a high price tag.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is designed with a focus on comfort and cushioning, thanks to its Fresh Foam midsole that offers a soft, lightweight ride. This makes it suitable for women who plan to cover longer distances and need good shock absorption. The mesh upper and no-sew overlays help with breathability and provide a smooth, comfortable fit without extra bulk, which is great for keeping feet cool. The shoe comes in a wide size option, which can benefit runners with broader feet seeking a better fit.

While the shoe’s arch support is decent for moderate arches, it might not be enough for those who require strong or specialized support. Weighing around 1.7 pounds, it’s reasonably light, though not the lightest in its category. The durable rubber outsole adds to its lifespan, making it a solid choice for daily running. Some may find the fit a bit roomy, typical for wider shoes, so trying them on is advisable.

This shoe effectively balances cushioning and durability, making it a reliable pick for women who want comfort and breathability on their long runs without compromising on a supportive feel.