Wind whipping through your hair. The soft plunk of each footfall, perfectly in step with your favorite song or the sounds of nature around you. Endorphins surging through your bloodstream—giving you an instant mood boost. There’s nothing quite like a good run.
But before you hop on the treadmill or hit the pavement, there’s one essential piece of gear that can make or break your experience: your running shoes.
The right pair doesn’t just feel good—it plays a critical role in injury prevention, comfort, and overall performance. On the flip side, wearing the wrong shoes can lead to irritations like blisters and callouses or even contribute to injury.
But with so many brands, styles, and features out there, it can be hard to pinpoint the perfect pair. That’s why we’ve highlighted the most important factors to consider when choosing running shoes—so you can find the pair that gives you confidence in every stride.
Here’s our ultimate guide to buying running shoes:
Consider your preferred terrain
Where do you run most often? Do you enjoy pounding the pavement? Is the treadmill your best friend? Or do you see running as an opportunity to hit the trails and explore nature?
Different terrains call for different shoes—because the surface you run on directly impacts the type of support, traction, and protection your feet need.
Trail running shoes, for example, are built to handle rugged, uneven terrain. They often feature deep lugs (small rubber projections, similar to cleats) and stiff midsoles to provide traction and stability on slippery or rocky surfaces. Many also come equipped with durable uppers and reinforced toe caps to protect your feet from roots, dirt, and debris.
Road running shoes are designed for smoother, harder surfaces like pavement or sidewalks. They’re typically lighter, more breathable, and offer ample cushioning to absorb impact with every step.
Gym-goers have options. If you're mainly logging miles on the treadmill, a pair of road running shoes will work well. But if your workouts are more varied—like strength training, HIIT, or agility drills—cross-trainers might be a better fit. These shoes are flatter and firmer, offering stability for lateral movements and durability under heavy lifting.
Consider your unique foot features
Running shoes tend to fall into two categories: neutral shoes and stability shoes. Neutral shoes, like the New Balance 880 and Brooks Ghost, are ideal for runners with medium-to-high arches and a healthy gait.
If you have flat feet, low arches, or tend to overpronate (your feet roll inward as you walk or run), you may benefit from a pair of stability shoes, like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS and Hoka Gaviota. Stability shoes are specifically designed to provide extra support and help correct overpronation, reducing strain on your joints and promoting better alignment.
Consider your preferences
At the end of the day, it’s important to consider your personal preferences. Brands like Brooks, Hoka, New Balance, On, and others all make excellent running shoes, so part of your choice will come down to what feels best to you. Think about whether you prefer traditional laces or elastic ones. Even choosing a style in a color you love can help boost your confidence on your next run.
Most running shoes feature some level of foam cushioning to help absorb the repetitive impact of your feet hitting the ground. But the right amount of cushioning ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you.
If you prefer ultra-plush landings, shoes like the On Cloudmonster and Brooks Glycerin Max deliver maximum cushioning—ideal for those who want to feel like they're running on a cloud. On the other hand, if you like to stay more connected to the ground, consider a lower-cushion option like the Altra Escalante.
Consider trying on shoes in person
If you usually shop online, this might not be what you want to hear—but trying on running shoes in person can make a big difference.
Why? Trying shoes on in person takes the guesswork out of fit and comfort. And when engaging in a high-impact type of exercise like running, ensuring your shoes fit properly is crucial to avoiding injury. Consider having your feet measured while you shop, and remember that sizing can vary between brands, so what feels great in one model might not work in another.
Plus, if you’re new to running, a footwear expert can evaluate your gait and foot shape to help you find the right features for support, stability, and performance.
At Schuler, we make it easy. Simply stop by your nearest store whenever it's open to connect with a friendly, experienced fit expert. They’ll be your in-person guide to buying running shoes—introducing you to our running collection, recommending styles that align with your unique foot features and running routine, and helping you find a pair that fits just right.
Ready to hit the ground running?
Now that you’ve finished reading our guide to buying running shoes, it’s off to the races. Your dream pair is out there. Stop by your local Schuler to try on top running shoes in person, or browse our online store.