Quick Summary
Design features like support, cushioning and breathability are important for treadmill running shoes, while other factors like water-resistance and extra durability are not as crucial.
Sports & Activities
Article Type
Best 9 Running Shoes for Treadmill Running in 2026
Know what to look for when taking your run inside with our picks for the best treadmill running shoes in 2026.
March 21, 2026
Treadmills are a great way to train inside, whether you’re escaping bad weather or connecting to a live workout. However, training on treadmills isn’t identical to running outside. Treadmills have a softer surface than pavement or trails. Additionally, treadmill running means no twists or turns which require you to adjust your gait or direction.
There is, however, a chance for landing on the running surface in a different way due to the way a treadmill belt pulls beneath you. Because of that, having a pair of running shoes for treadmills may be the right move.
Before choosing a treadmill running shoe, it’s important to know your feet type and running gait. You can do this by consulting a podiatrist, visiting a running specialist at your local DICK’S Sporting Goods for a complimentary gait analysis, or you can do your own research with our Pro Tips guide which breaks down gait and foot types.
What to look for in shoes for treadmill running?
Once you understand your gait, take into considering the following when deciding on shoes for treadmill running:
SUPPORT
You’ll be running with more repetition on a treadmill than you would outdoors. Less variation in your motion compared to a natural environment can put more repetitive stress on your body. If you wear a shoe with any motion-control features, choose something similar for proper support on the treadmill.
BREATHABILITY
No one wants stinky feet. So, you’ll need a well-ventilated shoe to compensate for the lack of natural wind to cool your toes off. Shoes that are lightweight or have mesh are typically good options to help your feet breathe.
CUSHIONING
Sometimes your stride on the treadmill may affect how your foot lands. This may mean putting more pressure on your heel than the ball of your foot. If that’s the case, extra cushioning is needed in the heel to help soften the impact.
DURABILITY
When running inside, you won’t be facing the elements like you would when running outdoors. Dodging potholes, stepping in puddles or maneuvering around uneven surfaces are worries left at your doorstep. Because of this, the durability of your running shoes doesn’t need to be as intense as that of a trail running shoe. The shoes shouldn’t wear out as quickly, so focusing on models with heavy-duty materials made for those situations is unnecessary.
However, if you’re looking for one shoe that works for both treadmill and trail running, we recommend choosing a durable, waterproof option that can handle the outdoor conditions you won’t encounter indoors.
DO YOU NEED DIFFERENT PAIRS OF SHOES FOR TREADMILL AND OUTDOOR RUNNING?
The short answer is no—you can wear the same shoes you use for outdoor running on the treadmill. However, if you run frequently, you may want separate pairs to help extend the lifespan of each shoe. Some runners also prefer to keep a dedicated pair for treadmill workouts to avoid bringing outdoor dirt and debris onto the treadmill belt.
BEST TREADMILL RUNNING SHOES
HOKA Clifton 10
The HOKA Clifton 10 delivers a smooth, consistent ride on the treadmill thanks to its Early Stage Meta‑Rocker, helping each stride roll effortlessly. The breathable jacquard knit upper stays secure as your pace changes, while the CMEVA midsole keeps cushioning soft and supportive through longer indoor miles.
- Breathable jacquard knit upper for structure and flex
- Rearfoot‑Focused Active Foot Frame for a cradled, stable feel
- CMEVA midsole for long‑lasting cushioning and support
HOKA Bondi 9
The Bondi 9 is a great match for treadmill runs because it keeps things smooth and comfortable from the moment you start moving. Its Early Stage Meta‑Rocker helps each step roll naturally, while the engineered mesh upper keeps your feet supported and lets them breathe. Underfoot, the super‑soft EVA cushioning stays comfortable through longer miles, making the shoe feel stable, balanced and easy to trust during indoor workouts.
Engineered mesh upper with 55% recycled polyester for breathable structure and flex
Rearfoot‑Focused Active Foot Frame for a cradled, stable feel during pace shifts
Super critically foamed EVA midsole for long‑lasting cushioning and support on high‑mileage treadmill sessions
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
The Adrenaline GTS 25 helps you stay steady and comfortable on treadmill miles thanks to its smooth, balanced cushioning and built‑in support. The engineered mesh upper keeps your foot secure without feeling restrictive, and the nitrogen‑infused DNA LOFT v3 foam stays soft underfoot even as the miles add up.
As Kevin E., a Running Expert at DICK’S Sporting Goods in Melbourne, FL, puts it: “With the Adrenaline 25, I get the soft ride I love and the support I count on, even when the miles stack up at the end of a race.”
GuideRails support system helps reduce excess movement for a more natural, stable stride
DNA LOFT v3 nitrogen‑infused cushioning for a soft, responsive ride on longer indoor miles
Padded tongue and heel collar help reduce irritation and boost comfort
Brooks Glycerin 23
The Brooks Glycerin 23 is a great choice for treadmill runners who want soft cushioning and a smooth, consistent ride for indoor miles. Its plush midsole helps absorb the repetitive impact of running on the belt, while the breathable upper keeps your feet comfortable during longer treadmill runs.
Tuned DNA cushioning provides soft landings and responsive toe-offs for smooth treadmill miles
Zonal nitrogen-infused midsole helps deliver energy return and lasting comfort
Wide platform design supports stable, balanced transitions on the treadmill
Nike Vomero 18
The Nike Vomero 18 stands out as a treadmill-friendly shoe thanks to its ultra-plush cushioning and smooth transitions that help keep indoor runs comfortable and consistent. The stacked midsole foam softens repetitive impact from the treadmill belt, while the padded upper adds a secure, premium feel that makes longer runs easier to settle into.
ZoomX and ReactX stacked cushioning delivers a soft, smooth ride for comfortable treadmill miles
Redesigned traction pattern supports smooth heel-to-toe transitions on the belt
Plush tongue and padded upper provide a secure, comfortable step-in feel
Nike Pegasus 41
Looking for a shoe that you can wear both on the treadmill and for road runs? The Nike Pegasus 41, built with exceptional traction and flexibility, makes for a versatile running shoe for runs both indoor and outdoor. Featuring an upgraded breathable mesh up and all-new ReactX foam midsole, the Pegasus 41 is also wildly comfortable on the feet which makes for more energized, lightweight runs.
ReactX foam midsole surrounds forefoot and heel Air Zoom units for an energized ride
Signature waffle-inspired rubber outsole for traction and flexibility
Plush collar tongue and sock liner for a secure and comfortable fit
On Cloudmonster 3
Cushioned with On’s unique triple-layer CloudTec cushioning and ultra-responsive Helion foam, you can find spring in every stride in a Cloudmonster 3. Whether you’re training for a run or doing incline walks on a treadmill, this On cushioned running shoe is a perfect pick for keeping your feet comfortable.
Engineered knit upper with different zones – for breathability and a regular fit
Enhanced rocker shape for energetic push-offs
Compressed rubber outsole delivers optimized traction
New Balance 1080v15
If comfort is your priority on the treadmill, the New Balance 1080v15 is the shoe for you. The 1080v15 brings next-level cushioning and a flexible fit, paired with a bold new design, these New Balances look every bit as good as they feel.
Durable rubber outsole grips the ground for confident strides on varied surfaces
Soft interior lining enhances comfort during long runs or extended wear
Engineered upper provides a secure yet flexible fit for natural movement
Adidas Adizero EVO SL
Sleek, modern design meets lightweight, responsive feel with the adidas EVO SL trainers. Signature adidas LightstrikePro adds ultra-light cushion plus energy return for next-level speed, which makes for a great treadmill trainer. The textile upper and laces adjust fit for stability which paired with a racing-inspired design will have you feeling confident on and off the belt.
Lightweight, racing-inspired silhouette built for speed
Enhanced energy return helps maintain comfort and speed
Breathable textile construction keeps feet feeling fresh
No matter your running routine, the first step to buying your treadmill shoes is knowing both your feet and your gait. Whatever your reason for staying inside and using a treadmill, make sure you lace up with the right running sneakers.
Searching for the right size? Look for the True Fit icon on apparel and footwear 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.
© 2026 DICK's Sporting Goods
*Price Promotions - Due to manufacturer restrictions, select new release and other specified products are excluded from price promotions. Additionally, there are restrictions on the use of coupon codes.
If you are using a screen reader and are having problems using this website, please call 877-846-9997 for assistance.