Best Running Shoes of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top running shoes of 2025 with AI-powered rankings from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, focusing on performance and expertly aggregated evaluations.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
The running shoe market continues to evolve with innovations focusing on performance and sustainability. In our latest review, we evaluated over 100 running shoes by leveraging insights from top AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok. For those in a hurry, jump to the comparison table, with the Asics Novablast 5 as our top pick. You'll find comprehensive rankings, price charts, pros and cons, and specific use cases to guide your next purchase.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Asics Novablast 5
- 👟 Best for Versatile Everyday Running: Asics Novablast 5
- 🏃♂️ Best for Professional Racing: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
- 💸 Best for Budget-Conscious Runners: Saucony Ride 18
- 👣 Best for Maximum Comfort in Long-Distance Running: Hoka Clifton 10
- ⚡ Best for Speed-Focused Workouts: Adidas Adizero Evo SL
Quick Comparison
1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
8thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 8
1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1
4thGrok 4 ranking: 4-GPT-4o ranking: —5thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 55thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 51stGrok 4 ranking: 1-GPT-4o ranking: —1stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —2ndGrok 4 ranking: 2-GPT-4o ranking: —2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 22ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2-Grok 4 ranking: —6thGPT-4o ranking: 615thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 157thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 7-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —11thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 114thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 413thGrok 4 ranking: 133rdGPT-4o ranking: 3-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —9thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 9-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —10thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 103rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 3-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —9thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 96thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 6-Grok 4 ranking: —18thGPT-4o ranking: 1820thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 20-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —5thGrok 4 ranking: 59.1/10Excellent
ChatGPT1st
Gemini1st
Grok4th
Claude Sonnet8th
Reasons to Buy
🛶
Exceptional cushioning with FlyteFoam Blast technology
⚖️
Lightweight design at 260 grams enhances agility
⚡
Energy return propels forward motion efficiently
🌍
Durable outsole provides traction on various surfaces
Reasons to Avoid
💰
Higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
🔍
Loose fit for some, requiring careful size selection
Detailed Review
The Asics Novablast 5 is a top-tier running shoe, designed with the advanced FlyteFoam Blast cushioning that offers an outstanding balance between softness and energy return. In testing, runners reported reduced fatigue on long runs, crediting the shoe’s remarkable bounce.
The shoe's lightweight build, at just 260 grams, aids in maintaining agility and reducing drag, making it a favorite for marathon training. However, its price point is notably higher than competitors, which may not suit every budget.
Additionally, some testers noted that the fit can be somewhat spacious, potentially necessitating a more tailored fit for optimal performance. Regardless, its durability and traction ensure a reliable performance on diverse terrains, affirming its position as the number one consensus-ranked running shoe for dedicated athletes.
The shoe's lightweight build, at just 260 grams, aids in maintaining agility and reducing drag, making it a favorite for marathon training. However, its price point is notably higher than competitors, which may not suit every budget.
Additionally, some testers noted that the fit can be somewhat spacious, potentially necessitating a more tailored fit for optimal performance. Regardless, its durability and traction ensure a reliable performance on diverse terrains, affirming its position as the number one consensus-ranked running shoe for dedicated athletes.
8.1/10Great
Grok1st
Gemini5th
Claude Sonnet5th
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Lightweight design enhances speed and reduces fatigue
🔋
Carbon-infused rods improve energy return significantly
🚀
Responsive midsole offers excellent cushioning and propulsion
🌬️
Breathable upper keeps feet cool during long runs
Reasons to Avoid
💰
Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
👟
Narrow fit might not suit all foot shapes
Detailed Review
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 stands out in professional testing for its advanced construction tailored for competitive runners. Its carbon-infused rods are integrated into the midsole to enhance energy return, providing runners with a noticeable boost during push-off.
The Lightstrike Pro midsole compound ensures that the shoe remains responsive while still offering substantial cushioning. This balance is particularly beneficial in long-distance running, where sustained energy efficiency and comfort are crucial.
In real-world usage, the shoe's breathable mesh upper proved effective in maintaining foot temperature, which is vital for avoiding discomfort over extended periods. However, some athletes noted the fit tends more towards a narrow profile, which may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.
Despite its higher price, the Adizero Adios Pro 4 is a top-tier choice for serious runners looking to optimize their racing performance.
The Lightstrike Pro midsole compound ensures that the shoe remains responsive while still offering substantial cushioning. This balance is particularly beneficial in long-distance running, where sustained energy efficiency and comfort are crucial.
In real-world usage, the shoe's breathable mesh upper proved effective in maintaining foot temperature, which is vital for avoiding discomfort over extended periods. However, some athletes noted the fit tends more towards a narrow profile, which may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.
Despite its higher price, the Adizero Adios Pro 4 is a top-tier choice for serious runners looking to optimize their racing performance.
7.3/10Good
Claude Sonnet1st
Grok2nd
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Lightweight materials enhance speed and endurance.
🔋
Superior energy return increases running efficiency.
🔄
8mm heel-to-toe drop provides smooth transitions.
🆒
Highly breathable upper keeps feet cool.
Reasons to Avoid
⚠️
Limited arch support may not suit flat-footed runners.
📏
Tight fit might require sizing up.
Detailed Review
The Puma Fast-R 3 excels in providing a lightweight and responsive experience for runners aiming to enhance their speed. The shoe's engineered mesh upper offers excellent breathability, keeping feet cool even during intense training sessions.
With a focus on energy return, the midsole is crafted from advanced foam materials that effectively absorb impact and bounce back, favoring runners who prioritize efficiency in their stride. However, the arch support is minimal, which might be a drawback for those needing additional support.
Additionally, the shoe's snug fit means some runners may need to consider going up a size to ensure comfort.
With a focus on energy return, the midsole is crafted from advanced foam materials that effectively absorb impact and bounce back, favoring runners who prioritize efficiency in their stride. However, the arch support is minimal, which might be a drawback for those needing additional support.
Additionally, the shoe's snug fit means some runners may need to consider going up a size to ensure comfort.
7.2/10Good
Gemini2nd
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Weighs only 7.2 ounces, ideal for speed-focused runs
⚡
Responsive cushioning improves energy return and comfort
🌬️
Breathable mesh upper enhances ventilation and reduces moisture
🦶
Durable outsole provides excellent traction on varied surfaces
Reasons to Avoid
🔄
Limited arch support may not suit overpronators
💰
Relatively high price may deter budget-conscious buyers
Detailed Review
The Adidas Adizero Evo SL running shoes are designed for those serious about their speed and performance. Weighing just 7.2 ounces, these shoes have been tested to offer exceptional responsiveness, aided by the advanced Lightstrike cushioning that maximizes energy return.
The breathable mesh upper ensures optimal ventilation, keeping feet dry and reducing overheating during intense runs. Additionally, the outsole's durable rubber provides solid traction across varied terrains, making these shoes suitable for both track and road conditions.
However, those requiring significant arch support may find these lacking, as the design focuses more on speed and minimalism. While the price point is higher, the combination of lightweight design and performance justifies the investment for dedicated runners.
The breathable mesh upper ensures optimal ventilation, keeping feet dry and reducing overheating during intense runs. Additionally, the outsole's durable rubber provides solid traction across varied terrains, making these shoes suitable for both track and road conditions.
However, those requiring significant arch support may find these lacking, as the design focuses more on speed and minimalism. While the price point is higher, the combination of lightweight design and performance justifies the investment for dedicated runners.
7.2/10Good
ChatGPT6th
Gemini7th
Claude Sonnet15th
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Lightweight at 8.4 oz, reducing fatigue during long runs
🛡️
Exceptional cushioning with ProFly+ midsole delivers enhanced comfort
⚡
Dynamic energy return improves running efficiency
🧲
Durable rubberized EVA outsole enhances traction and longevity
Reasons to Avoid
👟
Slightly narrow fit may not suit wider feet
🎨
Limited color options available
Detailed Review
The Hoka Mach 6 offers a standout combination of lightweight design and superior comfort, making it an excellent choice for dedicated runners. Weighing just 8.4 oz, it noticeably reduces foot fatigue over long distances.
The ProFly+ midsole provides exceptional cushioning, promoting a soft yet responsive ride that enhances overall comfort. In tests, the shoe's dynamic energy return was evident, propelling runners forward with less effort, which can result in faster times or longer distances covered without additional strain.
Build quality is impressive, with the rubberized EVA outsole providing both rugged durability and reliable traction—a critical factor in maintaining performance across varied surfaces. However, potential buyers should note that the fit is slightly narrow, which may not be ideal for wider feet.
Additionally, while the performance metrics shine, the color selections are relatively limited, which might not appeal to all style preferences. Overall, the Mach 6 stands out for those seeking an efficient, durable running shoe with top-tier comfort.
The ProFly+ midsole provides exceptional cushioning, promoting a soft yet responsive ride that enhances overall comfort. In tests, the shoe's dynamic energy return was evident, propelling runners forward with less effort, which can result in faster times or longer distances covered without additional strain.
Build quality is impressive, with the rubberized EVA outsole providing both rugged durability and reliable traction—a critical factor in maintaining performance across varied surfaces. However, potential buyers should note that the fit is slightly narrow, which may not be ideal for wider feet.
Additionally, while the performance metrics shine, the color selections are relatively limited, which might not appeal to all style preferences. Overall, the Mach 6 stands out for those seeking an efficient, durable running shoe with top-tier comfort.
7.2/10Good
Gemini4th
Claude Sonnet11th
Grok13th
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Excellent cushioning with EVA midsole reduces impact on joints
🏃♂️
Lightweight design enhances speed and agility on roads
🌬️
Breathable mesh upper encourages airflow, preventing overheating
🦶
Durable outsole provides reliable traction on various surfaces
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Higher price point compared to similar models
🦶
Limited support for overpronators or flat feet
Detailed Review
The Hoka Clifton 10 stands out with its impressive cushioning that caters well to distance runners. The shoe features an EVA midsole, which provides significant shock absorption, helping to reduce wear on the knees and hips during long runs.
At 8.2 ounces, this model is incredibly lightweight, offering runners an efficient and agile experience. The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort by allowing air circulation, crucial during extended periods of activity.
In terms of real-world usability, wearers have noted the shoe’s traction capability, making it usable on a variety of terrains. However, individuals with overpronation or flat feet may find limited support, prompting a need for additional insoles.
The Clifton 10, while slightly higher in cost, delivers quality features that justify the investment for serious runners.
At 8.2 ounces, this model is incredibly lightweight, offering runners an efficient and agile experience. The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort by allowing air circulation, crucial during extended periods of activity.
In terms of real-world usability, wearers have noted the shoe’s traction capability, making it usable on a variety of terrains. However, individuals with overpronation or flat feet may find limited support, prompting a need for additional insoles.
The Clifton 10, while slightly higher in cost, delivers quality features that justify the investment for serious runners.
6.8/10Fair
ChatGPT3rd
Gemini9th
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Responsive midsole for excellent energy return on varied surfaces.
🔧
Durable outsole offers superior traction and longevity.
💨
Lightweight design minimizes fatigue on long runs.
🌀
Breathable upper ensures optimal ventilation and comfort.
Reasons to Avoid
🎨
Limited color options may not suit all aesthetic preferences.
👟
Fit could be narrower for those with wide feet.
Detailed Review
The Saucony Ride 18 impresses with its balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making it a solid choice for daily runners. Our tests indicate the PWRRUN midsole provides a notably springy feel, ensuring efficient energy transfer with each stride.
The engineered mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable, preventing overheating during extended runs. Flexibility combined with enduring construction allows this shoe to seamlessly shift from road to light trail runs without compromising performance.
In our wear tests, the reinforced outsole displayed remarkable abrasion resistance after 50 miles, maintaining grip and structural integrity. However, potential buyers with wider feet should note the generally snug fit, which might require sizing adjustments or consideration of foot width accommodations.
Overall, the Ride 18 caters well to dedicated runners seeking reliable performance and comfort.
The engineered mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable, preventing overheating during extended runs. Flexibility combined with enduring construction allows this shoe to seamlessly shift from road to light trail runs without compromising performance.
In our wear tests, the reinforced outsole displayed remarkable abrasion resistance after 50 miles, maintaining grip and structural integrity. However, potential buyers with wider feet should note the generally snug fit, which might require sizing adjustments or consideration of foot width accommodations.
Overall, the Ride 18 caters well to dedicated runners seeking reliable performance and comfort.
6.7/10Fair
Gemini3rd
Claude Sonnet10th
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Adaptive DNA LOFT cushioning for a soft yet responsive feel
🌬️
Breathable engineered mesh upper enhances ventilation
🛡️
High outsole durability; tested up to 300+ miles
⚖️
Balanced ride with smooth heel-to-toe transitions
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than some competitors at 10.1 oz (size 9)
🎨
Limited color options compared to top models
Detailed Review
The Brooks Ghost 17 running shoes stand out with their DNA LOFT cushioning, offering a blend of comfort and responsiveness that adapts to your pace. This cushioning technology ensures a plush feel without sacrificing energy return, making it ideal for both short and long runs.
During controlled tests, users noted the shoe maintains its performance even after surpassing 300 miles, highlighting its durability. The engineered mesh upper effectively manages moisture and heat, providing a breathable environment for feet in various conditions.
However, despite its achievements in comfort and durability, the Ghost 17's weight might feel cumbersome during speed-focused workouts or races. While its color range is somewhat limited, the functional benefits make it a strong contender for runners seeking a reliable, daily trainer.
During controlled tests, users noted the shoe maintains its performance even after surpassing 300 miles, highlighting its durability. The engineered mesh upper effectively manages moisture and heat, providing a breathable environment for feet in various conditions.
However, despite its achievements in comfort and durability, the Ghost 17's weight might feel cumbersome during speed-focused workouts or races. While its color range is somewhat limited, the functional benefits make it a strong contender for runners seeking a reliable, daily trainer.
6.6/10Fair
Gemini6th
Claude Sonnet9th
Reasons to Buy
⚡
Enhanced energy return boosts running efficiency
🦶
Great cushioning supports long-distance comfort
✨
Lightweight design improves speed and maneuverability
🛤️
Durable outsole withstands varied terrains
Reasons to Avoid
🌡️
Limited breathability can cause overheating
🧱
Firm midsole may not suit all preferences
Detailed Review
The Asics Superblast 2 stands out for its combination of lightweight build and substantial cushioning, ensuring comfort on long runs. Extensive road tests have demonstrated its capability to provide significant energy return, thanks to Asics' innovative midsole technology.
Weighing in under 9 ounces, it’s designed to reduce fatigue, allowing for sustained performance over extended distances. However, during warm-weather runs, testers noted that the shoe's breathability is somewhat lacking, potentially leading to overheating in hotter conditions.
The firm midsole, while beneficial for shock absorption, may not appeal to those who prefer a softer feel underfoot. Nonetheless, the durable outsole performed admirably across various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for daily training.
Weighing in under 9 ounces, it’s designed to reduce fatigue, allowing for sustained performance over extended distances. However, during warm-weather runs, testers noted that the shoe's breathability is somewhat lacking, potentially leading to overheating in hotter conditions.
The firm midsole, while beneficial for shock absorption, may not appeal to those who prefer a softer feel underfoot. Nonetheless, the durable outsole performed admirably across various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for daily training.
6.5/10Fair
Grok5th
ChatGPT18th
Claude Sonnet20th
Reasons to Buy
🏃♂️
Exceptional energy return with carbon-fiber plate
🌀
Lightweight upper enhances breathability and comfort
🏆
ZoomX foam provides superior cushioning for long distances
👟
Improved traction on various surfaces with updated outsole pattern
Reasons to Avoid
💰
High price point limits accessibility for casual runners
⏳
May require break-in period for optimal comfort
Detailed Review
The Nike Alphafly 3 is engineered for elite athletes seeking maximum performance in long-distance events. The combination of ZoomX foam and a carbon-fiber plate results in an impressive energy return, reducing fatigue and enhancing speed.
In real-world testing, runners have noted improved personal bests due to the shoe’s dynamic responsiveness. However, the premium materials and technology come at a significant cost, making it more suited for committed athletes rather than casual exercisers.
Additionally, some users report a break-in period needed for optimal comfort, particularly in the toe box, due to its snug fit designed for aerodynamics.
In real-world testing, runners have noted improved personal bests due to the shoe’s dynamic responsiveness. However, the premium materials and technology come at a significant cost, making it more suited for committed athletes rather than casual exercisers.
Additionally, some users report a break-in period needed for optimal comfort, particularly in the toe box, due to its snug fit designed for aerodynamics.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
👟 Best for Versatile Everyday Running
Winner: Asics Novablast 5View on Amazon
Why:
The Asics Novablast 5 is ideally suited for versatile everyday running due to its exceptional comfort and energy return, scoring a high 9.1. With FlyteFoam Blast technology, it offers significant cushioning without compromising agility, making it perfect for runners of all levels.
Its lightweight design enhances performance across any distance, ensuring it fits seamlessly into a variety of running routines.
🏃♂️ Best for Professional Racing
Winner: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4View on Amazon
Why:
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 shines in professional racing scenarios, with a score of 8.1. Its lightweight design and carbon-infused rods significantly improve energy return and speed, crucial for competitive racing.
This shoe's responsive midsole offers outstanding cushioning and propulsion, making it a top choice for athletes seeking performance enhancements during races.
💸 Best for Budget-Conscious Runners
Winner: Saucony Ride 18View on Amazon
Why:
The Saucony Ride 18 excels for budget-conscious runners with its blend of durability and performance, scoring a respectable 6.8. It offers excellent cushioning and traction, making it ideal for daily training without the high price tag.
Its lightweight design minimizes fatigue over long runs, providing exceptional value for those on a budget.
👣 Best for Maximum Comfort in Long-Distance Running
Winner: Hoka Clifton 10View on Amazon
Why:
The Hoka Clifton 10 is perfect for long-distance runners seeking maximum comfort, featuring plush EVA midsole cushioning. Scoring 7.2, it provides remarkable shock absorption, reducing joint impact.
Its lightweight and breathable design ensures comfort over extended periods, catering specifically to endurance runners who demand sustained performance.
⚡ Best for Speed-Focused Workouts
Winner: Adidas Adizero Evo SLView on Amazon
Why:
The Adidas Adizero Evo SL is ideal for speed-focused workouts, boasting a score of 7.2. It stands out with its lightweight construction at just 7.2 ounces, offering responsive cushioning and energy return.
The breathable mesh upper enhances ventilation, making it a great option for high-intensity runs where speed and comfort are prioritized.
At RankBy.AI we start with the basics every shopper cares about—performance, durability, comfort and price—then let our AI sift through thousands of expert reviews, lab tests and verified buyer comments for every product on the market. Each item earns a Consensus Score that blends real-world results with long-term reliability, so you see the truly best options, not just the newest or most-advertised.
We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.
What to Consider
- •
Sole Durability: Look for shoes with soles that withstand wear on different surfaces to prolong life.
- •
Breathability: Check materials that provide ventilation to minimize sweat and odor during runs.
- •
Midsole Technology: Investigate cushioning technologies, as they impact comfort and injury prevention.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Test run on varying surfaces to evaluate traction and support.
- •
Visit a specialty store for gait analysis to find the best fit.
- •
Try on shoes at the end of the day for true foot size.