10 Best Womens Running Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe is designed to offer robust support, making it ideal for runners who need extra stability. The innovative GuideRails Holistic Support System helps maintain natural motion while controlling excess movement, which is great for those prone to injuries or who require added support during their runs. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides lightweight and plush comfort, adapting to your stride for a smooth running experience.

However, some users might find the cushioning less responsive compared to other high-performance running shoes. The engineered air mesh upper enhances breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and comfortable. The shoe's fit is accommodating, thanks to its stretch and structure, but individuals with very narrow or wide feet might need to try it on first to ensure a perfect fit.

The rubber sole material contributes to durability, making the shoe a reliable choice for long-term use. The heel-to-toe drop is designed to promote smooth transitions, which can benefit runners looking for a more natural and comfortable stride. On the downside, the shoe might feel a bit heavier, which could be a minor drawback for those who prefer ultra-lightweight footwear. Additionally, it is also a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has the APMA Seal of Acceptance, highlighting its health benefits. For runners seeking a blend of support, cushioning, and breathability, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a solid option.

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is a neutral running shoe designed for women who want maximum cushioning with a smooth, stable ride. It offers an accommodating fit thanks to its flexible double jacquard knit upper, which also provides good breathability to keep your feet comfortable during runs. The standout feature is its DNA Tuned cushioning technology, which uses larger cells in the heel for soft landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for a responsive toe-off, making transitions feel smooth and natural.

This shoe has a broad platform that adds stability without compromising the natural foot motion, which is great for road running, gym workouts, or cross training. The heel-to-toe drop is balanced for neutral support, so it won’t push you forward aggressively but rather helps maintain a comfortable stride. Durability is solid thanks to the rubber sole and quality materials in the upper, making it a reliable choice for regular use.

It is important to note that while it provides neutral support, those needing extra stability might want to consider the Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 instead. This shoe is ideal for runners looking for plush cushioning, breathability, and a smooth ride without the need for heavy support.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a solid choice for women seeking a reliable, everyday running shoe with a neutral fit. It offers a comfortable, snug fit thanks to its breathable double jacquard air mesh upper, which keeps feet cool on longer runs. The shoe provides neutral support, making it versatile for runners who don’t need extra stability but want smooth, natural foot movement.

Cushioning is a standout feature here, with enhanced DNA Loft v3 foam in the heel and forefoot delivering soft yet responsive comfort that helps reduce fatigue mile after mile. While the exact heel-to-toe drop isn’t specified, the shoe’s design promotes smooth transitions, which can help maintain your running rhythm. Durability is addressed with a rubber outsole made from recycled materials, balancing wear resistance and lightweight feel for different surfaces.

A potential downside is that it’s mainly designed for neutral gait runners, so those needing more arch support or motion control might find it lacking. Additionally, the cushioning is plush and may feel a bit soft for those who prefer firmer shoes. This breathable, well-cushioned, and eco-friendly running shoe is ideal for road running, walking, and gym workouts, especially if you value comfort and a smooth ride over specialized support.