Best Women’s Running Shoes for 2025/2026 - The 5 Pairs Every Runner Is Loving

Choosing the right running shoes can make every mile smoother, lighter, and far more enjoyable. Here are the top 5 women’s running shoes for 2025/2026 - tested, loved, and trusted for comfort, stability, and performance.

FITNESS & NUTRITION

11/16/20253 min read

woman in black tank top and white pants lying on green grass field during daytime
woman in black tank top and white pants lying on green grass field during daytime

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Whether you’re joining a new run club, getting back into fitness, or simply craving that feeling of freedom during a morning jog, one thing is certain: the right running shoes change everything.

Women today aren’t just running, we’re multitasking, balancing routines, chasing goals, and searching for equipment that keeps up with our lifestyle. And while excitement plays a part, there’s also that little voice saying:

"Will they be comfortable? Will they support me? Will they make running feel easier?"

So, to help you start strong (and stylish) in 2025/2026, we’ve selected the top 5 running shoes women are loving chosen for comfort, cushioning, performance, and long-lasting support. From daily runs to intense training, these shoes are built to go the distance with you.

Let’s dive in. 🏃‍♀️✨

1. New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 – The Queen of Cushioning

Perfect for: daily runners, long-distance comfort, soft landings.

This model is all about plush, cloud-like cushioning.
The Fresh Foam X midsole is engineered to reduce impact and create effortless transitions, making each stride feel smooth and natural.

Key features:

  • Lightweight fabric construction

  • Ultra-soft underfoot feel

  • Secure ankle fit

  • Amazing for long runs or beginners who need extra comfort

This shoe is ideal for women who want a shoe that feels soft, stable, and ready for any distance.

2. Puma Deviate Nitro 3 HYROX WNS – Built for Speed & Energy Return

Perfect for: fast-paced runners, race training, interval sessions.

The Deviate Nitro 3 is a performance shoe, designed with Puma’s Nitro foam for responsiveness and propulsion.
If you love that energetic “bounce forward” feeling, this shoe is a dream.

Key features:

  • Textile mesh for breathability

  • Responsive Nitro cushioning

  • Secure lacing for a locked-in fit

  • Best for speed workouts, tempo runs, and races

This is the shoe for women joining a run club and wanting something that keeps pace with more intense sessions.

3. Nike Vomero 18 – Soft, Breathable & Ultra-Comfy

Perfect for: runners who want softness + flexibility + premium comfort.

Nike’s Vomero line is known for its plush feel, and the Vomero 18 continues that tradition with elevated breathability and a more flexible sole.

Key features:

  • Technical engineered mesh for airflow

  • Redesigned waffle outsole for smooth transitions

  • Soft tongue & interior lining

  • Ideal for daily training and beginners

If comfort and a gentle ride are top priorities, the Vomero 18 is an easy favorite.

4. adidas Ultrarun 5 – Lightweight Stability for Everyday Runs

Perfect for: neutral runners looking for lightness and stability.

The Ultrarun 5 is all about balance - not too soft, not too firm.
It’s lightweight, versatile, and perfect for women who want one shoe that can handle everything from daily jogs to longer sessions.

Key features:

  • Rubber sole for traction

  • Breathable upper

  • Light, comfortable design

  • Reliable everyday performance

A great choice if you want a minimalist feel without losing support.

5. ASICS Novablast 5 – Bounce, Cushion & Energy in One

The Novablast 5 is one of ASICS’ most loved shoes and for a reason.
It delivers an incredibly bouncy, energetic ride, thanks to FF BLAST+ Eco cushioning and the new PureGEL system for joint protection.

Key features:

  • Updated cushioning for superior softness

  • Advanced PureGEL for smoother impact

  • Breathable, durable mesh upper

  • Rocker geometry for easy transitions

Ideal for women who want comfort with a bit of fun and speed in every stride.