The best running shoes for men in the UK 2023

If, like nearly 4 million French running enthusiasts, you run regularly or occasionally, you need to be properly equipped to practice this sport. But how to choose the ideal pair among a multitude of criteria, such as comfort or cushioning? Discover our guide to the best running shoes for men.

Kiprun Kslight 1
8/10

Best value for money

Kiprun Kslight

Best men's running shoes in 2021

Look to the Kiprun Kslight for long distance running. They'll give you an unbelievable experience in every way: grip, stability, impressive recovery and cushioning.

72 £ on Decathlon

If you're looking for a high performance running shoe, the Kiprun Kslight is the perfect choice. Indeed, the proportions of materials used for their design make them very light (274 g for the pair). They are made of 40% synthetic rubber, 10% thermoplastic polyurethane, 60% ethylene vinyl acetate and 85% polyester.

In addition, the Kiprun Kslight are ideal for use on wet terrain thanks to their ethylene vinyl acetate soles that provide good grip. As a result, you'll be able to tackle all types of turns with ease. In addition, they offer a 10 mm DROP to compensate for the efforts required during the race.

Run Active Grip 2
7/10

Best value for money

Run Active Grip

Best entry-level men's running shoes

Choose the Run Active Grip for more performance, both in training and competition. They guarantee a good grip when climbing, while ensuring your comfort.

28 £ on Decathlon

The Run Active Grip stands out from the competition with 3 mm of lugs under the soles. These lugs were made to offer a better grip to the runner on all types of terrain. In addition, these men's running shoes are made of polyester, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane and synthetic rubber, materials so light that these shoes weigh just 296g.

In addition, the 10 mm DROP optimizes the foot position and offers real comfort. Otherwise, an EVA midsole guarantees unparalleled cushioning for the Run Active Grip. With these men's running shoes, even if you sweat your feet, you won't have bad odors since the materials are breathable. Also, the off-white color of the pair offered here will suit you wonderfully and will suit any sports outfit.

Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune) 3
9/10

Best value for money

Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune)

Best high-end men's running shoes

Aside from the price, the Adidas Supernova Unite are the best running shoes for men today. They feature a streamlined design and the recycled materials that make them up. And they have a good grip.

96 £ on Decathlon
Asics Gel Windhawk 21 4
8/10

Excellent

Asics Gel Windhawk 21

Great running shoes with gel inserts

The Asics Gel Windhawk 21 will fit you perfectly to optimize your stride. Indeed, they stand out for their adaptability on different types of terrain: on the track or on a treadmill.

56 £ on Decathlon

These men's running shoes with gel inserts are sure to please. The slightly daring colors (black/blue/white) give them all their charm and are suitable for all sportswear. In addition, the Asics Gel Windhawk Homme 21 have the advantage of providing good cushioning, thanks to their EVA soles. In addition, the heels have been reinforced to prevent the risk of shock.

However, the Asics Gel Windhawk 21 offer a real comfort because of their flexibility. Also, they weigh about 288g because the midsole is made of foam. On the other hand, the 10mm DROP of these men's running shoes will allow the runner to adopt the right ankle posture.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best running shoes for men

Any specific needs?

Best men's running shoes in 2021

Best entry-level men's running shoes

Best high-end men's running shoes

Great running shoes with gel inserts

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best running shoes for men

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Kiprun Kslight 5
8/10
Run Active Grip 6
7/10
Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune) 7
9/10
Asics Gel Windhawk 21 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Kiprun Kslight
Run Active Grip
Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune)
Asics Gel Windhawk 21
Look to the Kiprun Kslight for long distance running. They'll give you an unbelievable experience in every way: grip, stability, impressive recovery and cushioning.
Choose the Run Active Grip for more performance, both in training and competition. They guarantee a good grip when climbing, while ensuring your comfort.
Aside from the price, the Adidas Supernova Unite are the best running shoes for men today. They feature a streamlined design and the recycled materials that make them up. And they have a good grip.
The Asics Gel Windhawk 21 will fit you perfectly to optimize your stride. Indeed, they stand out for their adaptability on different types of terrain: on the track or on a treadmill.
Size
40
42
42
43.5
Color
Red
Off-white
Black and yellow
Black/blue/white
Materials
Ethylene vinyl acetate, synthetic rubber, polyester and thermoplastic polyurethane
Synthetic rubber, polyester, ethylene vinyl acetate and polyurethane
Recycled materials
Synthetic
DROP
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
Approximate weight
274 g
296 g
296 g
288 g

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Buying guide - running shoes for men

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How to choose your running shoes for men

Running requires the right shoes, which improve the runner's performance while ensuring comfort and safety. Here are the main criteria for choosing the pair of shoes best suited to your needs.

#1 - Frequency of sport practice

The frequency of your sport sessions is a criterion to take into account when choosing your running shoes. Depending on whether you run one to three times a week, or five times a week, you will need a specific type of running shoe. The distance you run during each session is also a factor to consider. Some running stores allow you to enter your criteria, including your type of running, to come up with a selection of models that may be right for you.

#2 - Type of land

A running shoe model designed for road use may not be suitable for mixed terrain, or for trail running, which is technical terrain. That's why you need to include the type of terrain among your main selection criteria.

#3 - The type of stride

To ensure comfort and performance, your running shoes must be able to propel you while providing good cushioning. It is therefore essential that they provide the best support on the ground according to your type of stride, whether it is universal, supine or pronated.

#4 - The weight

When

you run, your body must absorb up to 4 times your weight with each stride. So, it is important to take into account your morphology when choosing your running shoes. For example, a runner weighing 80 kg or more should wear shoes with better cushioning to protect their joints from shock and injury. A good cushioning of the shoes is also the guarantee of a great stability at each movement of your feet.

#5 - The comfort

You must naturally give great importance to comfort. A comfortable shoe must have a good fit, because your foot must feel comfortable inside. Other factors that can affect the comfort of your running shoes include cushioning and drop, which is the difference between the thickness of the sole in the forefoot and heel area.

Why is stride type important?

The stride type determines the support and the way the foot strikes the ground. Not all runners have the same stride and therefore the soles of their shoes wear differently. In addition to joint angulation, the stride also determines whether the forefoot, the flat part of the foot, or the heel touches the ground first.

Thus, all shoe models include an indication of the type of stride, an important criterion for the comfort and safety of every running enthusiast. However, it is important to know that the universal stride concerns 50% of runners, while 40% are supinators and 10% pronators.

If your foot touches the ground at the outer edge of the heel with each stride and the support is spread over the length of the foot, you have a universal or neutral stride. If your foot touches the ground from the outside edge of your foot, you have a supinator stride. Finally, if you touch the ground from the inside edge, you are pronator. A simple way to determine your stride type is to look at the wear on the soles of your shoes.

However, some experts recommend that you still choose a universal running shoe, but with an orthopedic sole.

How to choose the right size?

Choosing the right size may seem easy, but it is a step that requires certain precautions to avoid inconvenience. In Europe, sizes can vary from one brand to another, which can affect your choice. To avoid making a mistake, it may be better, if possible, to base your choice on the American size, which does not change depending on the brand.

Another precaution to take is to use a size equivalence after having measured your feet by putting on the socks you wear during your running sessions. In any case, it is strongly advised to take a size larger than your usual size, because your feet swell during your physical activities. It is also recommended to buy your running shoes in the afternoon because your feet will be at their maximum size by then, the size they will be during your sports sessions.

Try on your running shoes

Before you decide to buy your running shoes, don't hesitate to try them on in a store. Nothing beats a proper trial to be sure of your choice. For online sales, most stores offer you the opportunity to try on your shoes for a specific period of time.

The different types of running shoes for men

There are three main types of running shoes, plus minimalist shoes, a category of their own that has yet to make a significant breakthrough among runners.

Road running shoes

These are the classic running shoes for running on the road or on urban terrain, especially when jogging. They are more focused on comfort and design than on technicality, and come in many models for all needs. Generally, they offer good cushioning, stability and a medium drop, all of which contribute to a safe and quiet running session.

Advantages :

  • Comfort
  • Cushioning
  • Stability

Disadvantages :

  • The weight is a bit higher

Who is it for?

If you're just getting into running, or if you practice irregularly and infrequently, these are the type of men's running shoes you need.

Running shoes for trail running

Designed

for running on difficult terrain, such as mountain courses, forest or rocky paths for example, special trail running shoes are more technical. In addition to being more stable and comfortable, and have a better grip than road running shoes. They also better protect the athlete's feet.

Pros:

  • Better grip
  • More stability
  • Better foot protection

Disadvantages :

  • Not suitable for road use

Who is it for?

Opt for the special trail running shoe if you like to run outside the urban setting.

Running shoes for competition

The

special competition running shoes are made to optimize the athlete's performance. They are characterized mainly by their thinner sole, which explains their much lighter weight. Thus, they do not weigh down the runner's feet during his efforts. However, they are subject to a lot of wear and tear, which reduces their lifespan.

Advantages:

  • Light weight
  • Thin soles

Disadvantages :

  • Less cushioning
  • Less durability

Who is it for?

Special competition and training running shoes are for athletes who regularly participate in regional or national sporting events.

Minimalist running shoes

In

sports shoes, minimalism is a concept that came from the United States. Its breakthrough in the French sports world is recent and still in its infancy. A minimalist running shoe is devoid of all technologies that are supposed to bring more comfort and improve the runner's performance. This explains its very light weight which generally does not exceed 125 g. This type of shoe emphasizes the foot's ability to adapt to the terrain and move naturally.

Pros:

  • Extremely light shoes

Disadvantages:

  • Feet are less protected from injury

Who are they for?

To find a more natural feeling during your running sessions, minimalist running shoes are especially recommended.

The best brands of running shoes for men

In our opinion, the best brands of running shoes for men in 2022 are :

Asics
Nike
Adidas
New Balance
Mizuno

Asics is a brand of sports shoes created in Japan in 1949 by Mr. Kihachuro Onitsuka. The brand is known for the quality of its running shoes, especially through the "Gel" range.

Nike is an American brand of sports equipment created in 1971 and based in Beaverton, Oregon. Running shoes with the Comma are synonymous with quality and performance.

Adidas is a German brand specialized in sports equipment. Founded in 1949 by Adolph Dassler, the brand with the three stripes will become one of the world's references in sports shoes. Its running shoes are among the best on the market.

Founded in 1906 and headquartered in Boston, New Balance is an American brand of shoes and sports equipment. It offers a range of quality running shoes for running enthusiasts.

Mizuno is one of the world's leading running shoe brands. The brand was born in 1906 in Osaka. Several times partner of the Osaka Marathon, Mizuno offers a complete range of innovative and high performance models.

What is the price running shoes for men

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
40 £ to 110 £
Mid-range
110 £ to 180 £
High-end
more than 180 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Don't buy your running shoes for the look.

When buying your shoes for running think about feel and fit, not fashion.

Do not buy shoes that are too small.

Fit shoes cause blisters, black toenails and that sort of thing. Women are used to wearing their shoes fitted, as they are often more self-conscious about the size of their feet, but even men sometimes buy running shoes that are too small for them. This should be avoided.

Buy your shoes at the end of the day.

Most people tend to have swollen feet during the day, so the best time of day to try running shoes is as late in the day as possible. Or after you've given your feet a good rest.

Don't keep a pair of running shoes for too long.

Most running shoes have a lifespan of 400 to 600 miles. However, many runners don't keep track of mileage. Or, they are careless and wear their pair down to a thread, which can lead to injury.

Buy your new pair before you get rid of the old one.

This way

, you can get used to your new pair slowly. Without damaging your feet.

FAQ

What precautions should I take before a night jog?

If you don't have time during the day because of your busy schedule, you can still run at night. However, there are a few safety precautions you should take to avoid accidents. Check that the weather conditions are suitable for your running, or wear suitable clothing, such as running shoes, tights, a hat, etc. Also, run against the flow of traffic so that drivers see you coming.

How does a running shoe work?

A running shoe is made of soft, breathable materials that guarantee freedom of movement. Most often, it is equipped with a non-slip sole that influences grip and cushioning. It should keep your feet stable, regardless of the weather conditions. For this reason, you should choose your running shoes according to certain criteria.

What type of shoes to use for indoor sessions?

If you happen to be running on an indoor track, you need to choose the right type of running shoe for it. Don't venture out in sneakers that cover your head to avoid sprains. Flat-soled running shoes are best. They will give you the comfort you need and grip well on smooth surfaces. Indoor running shoes also give your feet more dynamism.

Can I use my running shoes for other sports?

It is not recommended to use running shoes for other activities, as they are specifically designed for running. The best thing to do is to have a pair of shoes for each sport you practice. This little trick also helps to optimize the life of your equipment and avoid premature wear.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , jiwok.com
  2. , terrederunning.com
  3. , foodspring.fr
  4. , santemagazine.fr
  5. , marieclaire.be
  6. , lepape-info.com
  7. , adidas.fr
  8. , 42km195.fr
  9. , foulees.com
  10. , livestrong.com
  11. , decathlon.fr
  12. , zalando.fr
  13. , terrederunning.com
  14. , boutiquemarathon.com
  15. , jogging-point.fr
  16. , chaussures.fr
  17. , i-run.fr
  18. , colizey.fr
  19. , lepape.com
  20. , intersport.fr
  21. , contremamontre.fr
  22. , contremamontre.fr
  23. , newbalance.fr
  24. , asics.com
  25. , decathlon.fr
  26. , diadora.com
  27. , intersport.fr
  28. , colizey.fr
  29. , handball-store.fr
  30. , gpszapp.net
  31. , hoka.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Kiprun Kslight 9
Kiprun Kslight
Run Active Grip 10
Run Active Grip
Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune) 11
Adidas Supernova Unite (noir/jaune)
Asics Gel Windhawk 21 12
Asics Gel Windhawk 21

Lecteurs

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