Your feet are the foundation for many types of movement, so it’s important to protect them. A high-quality pair of athletic shoes can reduce your risk of injury while boosting your performance, keeping your feet comfortable and energized for long stretches of time.
Whether you’re pounding the pavement, summiting mountains, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the right shoes can make all the difference. But with countless brands, styles, and features out there, it can be hard to know where to turn. Luckily, we’ve done the legwork to bring you the best athletic shoes for every activity. Here are our top picks to take you farther.
The best athletic shoes for: running
The repetitive, high-impact movements of running can put stress on your feet and ankles, so it’s important to choose a shoe with supportive features designed to lower your injury risk.
Opt for a shoe with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and a lightweight yet durable outsole for reliable traction on your preferred running terrain. Consider your foot type and choose a shoe with the right level of arch support for you—those with plantar fasciitis, for example, should opt for a model with enhanced arch support.
Finally, consider fit. Well-fitting running shoes can significantly enhance your run, while the wrong fit can lead to discomfort or injury. Stop by your local Schuler to have your feet measured by one of our friendly and knowledgeable fit experts, try on a variety of styles, and find the pair that’s right for you.
Here are our top picks:
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 is an everyday roadrunner with Fresh Foam cushioning for lasting comfort.
The On Cloudmonster provides extreme cushioning which makes for softer landings and impact absorption.
The Hoka Bondi delivers peak plushness for everyday miles. Enjoy enhanced breathability and cloud-like cushioning with every stride.
The Brooks Glycerin offers industry-leading support, courtesy of innovations like DNA Tuned cushioning: a nitrogen-infused foam that facilitates plush landings and responsive toe-offs.
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The best athletic shoes for: walking
Taking regular walks offers many powerful benefits—from reducing your risk of developing serious conditions like heart disease to providing an instant mood boost. But, like any form of movement, it can still place strain on your feet, especially over the course of long distances.
You can reduce strain by choosing a high-quality pair of walking shoes. Look for shoes with ample cushioning to absorb shock and protect your feet from injury. It’s also important to choose a shoe with adequate arch support, especially if you have a condition like plantar fasciitis or flat feet. A well-supported arch helps distribute pressure evenly across your foot, ensuring lasting comfort and preventing stress from accumulating in any one area.
Here are our top picks:
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 840 features plush and supportive Fresh Foam X, delivering enhanced performance and comfort with each step for long walks or everyday wear.
The Brooks Ariel offers walkers and runners more support and stability in each stride. Plus, cushioning lends a floaty feeling to each step.
The Hoka Transport is a commuter-friendly style with cushioned support perfect for quick strolls or long walks.
The Brooks Beast provides a smooth and floaty-feel thanks to plush cushioning designed to help you enjoy your walk or run.
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The best athletic shoes for: cross training
Are you the type of person who prefers hitting the gym to hitting the pavement? A pair of high-quality cross-trainers will do you wonders.
An excellent pair of cross trainers should be flexible and versatile enough to handle the diverse set of movements required for activities like weight lifting, agility training, and cardio. Look for features like lateral support for stability during quick movements, durable heels and uppers for protection and support while lifting, and significant cushioning to absorb the impact of jumps and high-intensity cardio.
Here are our top picks:
The New Balance Fuelcell Trainer offers a range of comfort features like EVA foam cushioning and an external heel stabilizer to help you take on any workout with ease.
The New Balance 857 Training features an all-leather upper and provides superior support at the gym or on the go.
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The best athletic shoes for: hiking
Before you can reach that magnificent view, you need a pair of quality hiking shoes to support you on the journey.
Hiking shoes are designed with stiffer soles than other types of athletic shoes—and for good reason. A firm yet supportive midsole provides the protection and stability needed to tackle rugged, unpredictable terrain. Other key features to look for include breathable, lightweight materials, durable uppers, and grooved outsoles for reliable traction on a variety of surfaces.
You may also want to consider purchasing waterproof shoes, especially if you expect to encounter streams, wet terrain, or the occasional surprise rainstorm. A waterproof pair will keep your feet dry, comfortable, and ready for whatever the trails bring.
Here are our top picks:
The Keen Targhee IV may be the last hiking shoe you'll ever buy. Now made with a glue-free, fused construction that won’t delaminate, plus cushioning that resists compression.
The Teva Grandview Goretex Hiker gives you the comfort and support you need with traction and waterproofing from brands you trust.
The Merrell Moab provides excellent traction courtesy of grippy Vibram sole technology, and offers built-in arch support.
The Keen Hightrail features a foam insole and contoured fit for long-lasting comfort and rubber outsole for higher-traction grip on slippery surfaces—plus, it’s waterproof!
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The best athletic shoes for: tennis and pickleball
Tennis and pickleball demand agility (quick movements, sudden stops, and rapid changes in direction) which can strain your feet and ankles. To minimize stress and avoid injury, choose shoes designed for stability and lateral support. Traction is also key—a shoe with a flatter outsole will give you the grip you need to stay quick and controlled on any court surface.
All that movement isn’t just tough on your body—it’s tough on your shoes, too. That’s why durability matters. Look for features like reinforced toe guards to ensure your shoes stay sharp, match after match.
Here are our top picks:
The New Balance 996 Fuelcell Court is built for speed, endurance, and flexibility on the court, these tennis shoes take your game to the next level – now with a higher collar and tighter heel lockdown for stability.
The New Balance Tennis 696 offers lightweight support for top performance on the court. They also include NDurance rubber outsole technology for superior durability.
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The best athletic shoes for: everyday
It’s important to protect your feet at all times, even during everyday movement. A high-quality pair of lifestyle sneakers keeps you comfortable and supported whether you’re exploring a new city or tackling your to-do list.
To find a top-tier pair of lifestyle sneakers, look for comfort features like breathable materials and cushioned midsoles for shock absorption. And don’t compromise on style—a truly great lifestyle sneaker is both functional and fashion-forward.
Here are our top picks:
The New Balance 574 Lifestyle is a clean, classic shoe built for all-day comfort. Wear it around the neighborhood or on your next vacation.
The Hoka Transport is a commuter-friendly style that offers a multitude of sustainability features and offers comfort and style whether you're hiking, biking, or walking.
The Keen KS86 offers trail-worthy grip and comfort in a trendy retro package. They’re perfect for outdoor strolls, especially in areas with uneven terrain.
The Kizik Athens feature patented slip-on technology making them hands-free and ready for you to go anywhere.
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Ready to reach peak performance?
Discover the shoes made to move with you. Stop by your local Schuler to try on top athletic shoes in person, or browse our online store.