The 10 Worst Running Shoes & The 10 Best Worth Your Money

Sorting The Greats From The Flops

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Just because it’s a shoe doesn't mean it’s good enough for running. While some shoes deliver comfort and durability mile after mile, others fall short with poor cushioning, weak construction, or inefficient design. Choosing the correct shoes can make all the difference in your training and long-term comfort. Ahead, we’ll show you the models to avoid and the best options worth investing in. Let’s begin with the flops.

1. Nike Revolution 6

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Built more for casual comfort than performance, the Revolution 6 struggles during serious runs. Its midsole feels dull and lacks lasting energy return. Its outsole wears quickly, and traction becomes unreliable in wet or uneven conditions. Also, breathability is passable but insufficient for high-intensity workouts.

2. Adidas Duramo SL

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Adidas’ Duramo SL may look the part, but it falters under pressure. The EVA cushioning feels unresponsive, while the upper materials lack durability. Though the toe box fits most, heel slippage and long-term comfort issues make it a poor choice for dedicated runners.

3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Marketed for versatility, the Charged Assert 9 lacks the finesse of a true running shoe. Its midsole cushioning is overly firm, offering little bounce or support. Moreover, the breathable mesh feels stiff, and the overall design appears to prioritize style over substance.

4. Skechers D’Lites

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The Skechers D’Lites are built for lifestyle wear, not the road. Their bulky midsole adds weight without real benefit, and the arch support falls short over distance. While fine for casual outings, they lack the breathability and performance runners need in a high-mileage shoe.

5. Puma Flyer Runner

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

When used for serious training, this shoe falls flat. The Flyer Runner’s cushioning lacks impact protection, while the outsole delivers unreliable grip, especially on wet pavement. An unpadded heel collar causes friction, and the shoe’s overall build shows premature wear with regular running.

6. Reebok Lite 3.0

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Reebok Lite 3.0 reveals its limitations under regular mileage. With minimal cushioning and poor shock absorption, each step feels harsh. The stiff upper adds discomfort, and traction suffers noticeably on wet or smooth surfaces. Runners needing support find it lacking in responsiveness.

7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Outdated tech holds the Gel-Contend 7 back. Its rearfoot gel fails to deliver the bounce expected from modern ASICS models, and transitions feel clunky due to awkward weight distribution. The rigid upper doesn't lock down the foot effectively, making it unreliable for consistent performance.

8. New Balance DRFT v1

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

This shoe starts soft but fades fast. Support is compromised within weeks, as the EVA sole compresses early. Combined with a loose-fitting upper and minimal arch structure, the shoe leaves runners battling with fatigue. It simply isn’t built to handle high-impact, long-distance demands.

9. Fila Memory Workshift

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Running in these feels more like dragging your feet through heat and friction than striding freely. Designed for the workplace, the Workshift is a heavy, rigid option for runners. The memory foam lacks spring and responsiveness, and breathability is practically nonexistent.

10. Avia Avi-Verge

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

This one falls short on multiple fronts. Its rigid sole cushioning fails to adapt to impact, while the synthetic upper traps heat during extended runs. Fit issues often require manual adjustments, and the outsole wears down alarmingly fast, especially on pavement or trail surfaces.

You now know which shoes fall short, so let’s move on to the top running shoes that are worth your money.

1. Brooks Ghost 15

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

A go-to for daily training, the Ghost 15 balances comfort and consistency. While its DNA Loft v2 cushioning softens each landing, a segmented crash pad ensures smooth transitions. Breathable mesh and a secure fit complement a design that suits both beginners and seasoned runners.

2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Speed meets science in the Vaporfly NEXT% 3. With ZoomX foam and a carbon plate underfoot, it propels you forward effortlessly. The Atomknit upper remains breathable without sacrificing lockdown, making this elite racer ideal for chasing PRs on marathon day.

3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Designed for those who crave cushioning, the Gel-Nimbus 26 absorbs impact with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL®. Its engineered knit hugs the foot in all the right places. The shoe is great for neutral runners and excels on long hauls.

4. Hoka One One Clifton 9

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The Clifton 9 brings serious comfort without the bulk. A lightweight build pairs with compression-molded EVA for long-distance support, while the Meta-Rocker shape smooths out your stride. With added breathability and toe room, it’s as practical as it is plush.

5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

This daily trainer excels in comfort and fit. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers a buttery-smooth ride, and the Hypoknit upper flexes naturally with your stride. Wide sizing options and endurance-friendly support make it a standout for high-mileage runners seeking softness without sacrifice.

6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Built for performance and comfort, the Endorphin Speed 4 blends race-day speed with everyday reliability. Its PWRRUN PB cushioning and nylon plate create a snappy, energetic ride. Thanks to the SPEEDROLL geometry, each stride feels smooth, efficient, and ready for the next.

7. Altra Torin 7

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Runners who prefer a natural stride will appreciate the Torin 7’s zero-drop platform. Balanced Cushioning™ and a responsive EGO™ MAX midsole reduce joint impact without dulling performance. The FootShape™ toe box promotes proper alignment, allowing your feet to move the way they’re meant to.

8. On Cloudmonster

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The Cloudmonster lives up to its name. Bold in both design and delivery, its Helion™ superfoam and oversized CloudTec® pods produce massive energy returns. Its rocker-shaped sole glides effortlessly, and its airy upper keeps things cool, even on the longest training days.

9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Mizuno’s Enerzy foam and signature Wave Plate technology provide smooth shock absorption here. Combining bounce with stability, it's breathable upper maintains steady airflow. This shoe is a daily trainer with race-day potential, ideal for runners who value speed and support in one package.

10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

1. Nike Revolution 6, 2. Adidas Duramo SL, 3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9, 4. Skechers D’Lites, 5. Puma Flyer Runner, 6. Reebok Lite 3.0, 7. ASICS Gel-Contend 7, 8. New Balance DRFT v1, 9. Fila Memory Workshift, 10. Avia Avi-Verge, 1. Brooks Ghost 15, 2. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 3, 3. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, 4. Hoka One One Clifton 9, 5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, 6. Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, 7. Altra Torin 7, 8. On Cloudmonster, 9. Mizuno Wave Rider 27, 10. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Designed for elite competition, the Adios Pro 3 packs power into every step. ENERGYRODS 2.0 offers stiffness and propulsion, while Lightstrike Pro foam maximizes rebound. This shoe is lightweight yet responsive and thrives in marathon settings where every second counts.

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