Best Women's Running Shoes
Whether you’re breaking records or just starting out, here’s a list of top running shoes for women.
February 24, 2023
Let nothing hold you back when you set out on your next run. Whether you’re logging miles at home or getting out there on the pavement, there’s a good running shoe for you. And while there’s a lot that goes into choosing the right running shoe or the best treadmill shoe, we rounded up the top styles for women that can help give your run an extra boost.
The newest running shoe from HOKA lives up to the hype. The HOKA Clifton 9 weighs less than its predecessor while being 3mm taller and boats new, responsive foam, a plusher heal and an improved outsole. The added height adds cushioning to make you feel like you’re running on clouds. The breathable knit delivers lightweight, foot-hugging comfort throughout, along with the compression molded EVA midsole. Made for maximum comfort and support and a smooth ride, the HOKA Clifton 9 keeps you hungry to keep running.
Ready to take on mile after mile? This refresh of a Brooks favorite includes a revamp of a popular feature: full-length DNA Loftv2 cushioning, which helps ensure comfort and durability and offers softness that’s more lightweight than previous models. Plus, they boast a soft, secure fit thanks to a redefined 3D Fit Print. The Ghost 15 is updated with fewer midsole pieces to help create a seamless, smooth ride and a plusher heel and collar. They’re complete with an engineered air mesh upper that practically disappears on your foot, and flex grooves, which optimize forefoot flexibility. The Ghost series is well-loved and perfect for pounding the pavement or taking on the treadmill.
Get out and run toward your goals with the On Cloudrunner. As the name suggests, this shoe is soft yet supportive. Note that these fit true to size. The light, cushioned ride of the Cloudrunner keeps you motivated to keep going thanks to CloudTec® cushioning in ultralight Zero-Gravity foam and breathable mesh upper. The wider bottom unit and cradle-shaped construction mean extra support for every step. Each On style is Swiss-engineered to keep you feeling comfortable and motivated to run. Nothing is stopping you from your running goals when lacing up the On Cloudrunner.
Designed with softer, more resilient foam, the HOKA Bondi 8 is an athlete-favorite option for your running routine. With thousands of five-star reviews, you can be sure this shoe brings the comfort. It’s the most-cushioned shoe in the HOKA lineup, thanks to its more precise internal foam collar, extended heel design with billowed grooves for smoother transitions, durable rubber outsole and EVA midsole. Its soft memory foam is designed to accommodate a narrower heel and conform to a wide variety of ankle sizes. Plus, the vegan engineered mesh upper is made with recycled content. Set the pace with the HOKA Bondi 8.
Get dialed in with the updated Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39. These neutral shoes feature a sock liner for a padded, secure feel. Built with extra bounce and the same cushioned support as the previous version, you’ll be ready to hit your stride. More foam in the tongue and collar means more cushion for the top of your foot along with a wider forefoot for space in the toe box. Plus, they boast breathability in key areas thanks to a plush mesh upper. Whether you’re on the track, pavement or treadmill, you can bet that these shoes will be there every step of the way thanks to traction-boasting waffle-inspired outsole. Their full-length Zoom Air unit is made to provide a smooth, responsive, cushioned ride. Lace up the Nike Pegasus 39 and go.
Known for supreme comfort and softness, the latest Brooks Glycerin is here. Featuring built-in transitional zones and Omega flex grooves, this shoe is designed to flex and move with you on the road. Look for smoother and more stable transitions thanks to new cushioning and a redesigned outsole. The all-new engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable for an improved fit, as the Glycerin 20 helps you land softly, mile after mile. If you’re looking for a plush feel with premium comfort and flexibility, this could be a great choice for you. Keep in mind the Glycerin is available in a variety of fits with different technology to best support your run: regular fit, regular fit GTS (which stand for Go-To Support) for stability, Stealthfit and Stealthfit GTS, also for stability.
Cushioned comfort keeps you going with the Nike Invincible 3. The evolved Flyknit upper is strong and durable and delivers breathability in the areas where your foot gets the warmest. The heel clip is smaller than in the previous model and is in a more precise location for smoother strides. Constructed with ZoomX cushioning, the shoe is shaped like a rocker allowing for ultimate plushness upon contact with the road and a soft feel underfoot. Run with bounce in every step in the ultra-responsive and lightweight Nike Invincible 3.
Step into your next run with Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22. The Adrenaline series has been trusted by runners everywhere for years — and it’s clear why. These shoes are designed to bring cushioned stability that doesn’t slow down, making them a great treadmill option. The streamlined, engineered mesh upper 3D Fit Print saddle pulls from the heel and wraps the midfoot for a secure fit. Also, GuideRails® provide an added support system which is designed to put your body into a natural pattern of motion while running. This shoe has also been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Stay comfortable and confident while running with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22.
Run with ultimate cushioning thanks to the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25. Made with new PureGEL™ technology and 20 percent more foam underfoot, this shoe gives you great cushioning and softness, enhanced shock absorption and smoother transitions with every stride you take. The updated stretchy knit tongue and collar construction gives you an easier step-in with a more adaptive fit. Complete with reflective details, recycled content and an OrthoLite™ sockliner, you’ll be ready to run your way in the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25.
Push yourself toward your fitness goals with the New Balance 1080v12. The Hypoknit upper is designed with strategic areas of stretch to help improve breathability. Built with a bootie upper, you can count on a snug, supportive fit mile after mile. The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers incredible comfort thanks to the 3% bio-based content and fine-tuned cushioning that adapts to the surface you’re running on. The shoe’s outsole is made with blown rubber, maximizing its durability. Feel the foam difference in the New Balance 1080v12.
If you’re looking for the best running shoes for women, you may just discover the perfect fit for your gait right here. Still searching for your ideal style? Check out the DICK’S Running Shoe Finder. Answer a few quick questions about your running habits and preferred fit, and the Running Shoe Finder will point you toward the perfect pair.
Searching for the right size? Look for the True Fit icon on apparel and footwear product pages when shopping online at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Get personalized size and fit recommendations with just a few clicks. Learn more about True Fit.
