Once upon a prophecy, God granted man legs so that he could run. In today’s world, we say that if you’re going to do it, do it with haste and unwavering precision.
The running crowd in Australia is no doubt a different breed of athlete who takes their pavement-pounding seriously. Choosing the right running shoes to get the job done can, therefore, be near-impossible based on individual feel, running style, running environment, and foot shape. Not to mention matching your fancy running shoes with the right running shorts, running tops, or running jackets.
Regardless, for those who need some help in this department, we’ve compiled a list of the running shoes for men today.
When it comes to high-quality running shoes in Australia, there are some key features to look out for. These running shoes tend to have cushion technology in the heel and sole for shock absorption & arch support, are non-slip or slip-resistant and are breathable.
However, take into account where you usually run. For example, if you run near the water like at the beach or near a lake, you need to consider purchasing water-proof or water-resistant running shoes.
Allbirds Tree Dasher
For the eco-conscious runner
New Zealand-American company, Allbirds, is dedicated to creating eco-friendly footwear made from sustainable resources, but that doesn't mean that Allbirds' sneakers don't deliver high-quality running shoes.
The Tree Runners running shoes are made from renewable materials that unsurprisingly have amazing benefits; the body of these running shoes is crafted from eucalyptus tree fibres for breathability, and the insoles are made from castor oil layered with ZQ Merino wool to cushion, moisture-wick, and odour-reduce your feet while you're running.
The lightweight and breezy Tree Runners are also flexible and will conform to your movements. Plus, they're machine washable, meaning they're easy to clean even if you wear these running shoes for your daily run; which you will because they're so comfortable.
The Tree Runners running shoes are made from renewable materials that unsurprisingly have amazing benefits; the body of these running shoes is crafted from eucalyptus tree fibres for breathability, and the insoles are made from castor oil layered with ZQ Merino wool to cushion, moisture-wick, and odour-reduce your feet while you're running.
The lightweight and breezy Tree Runners are also flexible and will conform to your movements. Plus, they're machine washable, meaning they're easy to clean even if you wear these running shoes for your daily run; which you will because they're so comfortable.
Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2 IntelliKnit
For the fashion-focused runner looking for serious performance
US sportswear brand Under Armour is a brand that certainly gives off a serious image. Founded by a former American football player Kevin Plank, the company has gone from strength to strength, and now boasts high-profile athletes such as The Rock on its list of ambassadors.
Under Armour has a huge range of running shoes including the HOVR Phantom 2 Intelliknit. While that name may be a mouthful, you can be assured of pure performance from one of the best running shoes around. Under Armour's HOVR cushioning technology takes centre stage here, offering excellent energy return and shock absorption.
The IntelliKnit knitted upper, meanwhile, not only gives these running shoes a sock-like feel, being easy to slide on, but it also makes it ultra-breathable, meaning sweaty feet will be a thing of the past.
If, for whatever reason, you're not completely enamoured with the colour selection on Under Armour's website, we'd love to point you in the direction of the HOVR Phantom 2 IntelliKnit Danger Pack. These running shoes, available exclusively at Foot Locker Australia, can be had in a fetching black colour with red accents (pictured), or red with subtle black accents for the logo and on the knitted upper.
Under Armour has a huge range of running shoes including the HOVR Phantom 2 Intelliknit. While that name may be a mouthful, you can be assured of pure performance from one of the best running shoes around. Under Armour's HOVR cushioning technology takes centre stage here, offering excellent energy return and shock absorption.
The IntelliKnit knitted upper, meanwhile, not only gives these running shoes a sock-like feel, being easy to slide on, but it also makes it ultra-breathable, meaning sweaty feet will be a thing of the past.
If, for whatever reason, you're not completely enamoured with the colour selection on Under Armour's website, we'd love to point you in the direction of the HOVR Phantom 2 IntelliKnit Danger Pack. These running shoes, available exclusively at Foot Locker Australia, can be had in a fetching black colour with red accents (pictured), or red with subtle black accents for the logo and on the knitted upper.
Nike
For the state-of-the-art runner
Sportswear giant Nike was born with the very mission to assist and mould athletes. Their running shoes are developed based on countless hours of research to provide the wearer with the best possible support and function.
They cater to both casual and serious runners with their tech, and our top picks would be the Air Zoom Pegasus running shoes if you’re a casual runner, as they feature breathable mesh uppers and responsive, cushioning foam.
However, if you’re training for a marathon or just hit the pavement hard in Australia, go for the Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% running shoes. This shoe is incredibly lightweight, features an outsole with different angles of traction placed where runners need it most, and guarantees to give you optimal energy return and impact protection.
They cater to both casual and serious runners with their tech, and our top picks would be the Air Zoom Pegasus running shoes if you’re a casual runner, as they feature breathable mesh uppers and responsive, cushioning foam.
However, if you’re training for a marathon or just hit the pavement hard in Australia, go for the Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% running shoes. This shoe is incredibly lightweight, features an outsole with different angles of traction placed where runners need it most, and guarantees to give you optimal energy return and impact protection.
Cole Haan Zero Grand Outpace 2
For the refined runner
Cole Haan isn't just a maker of dress shoes and casual sneakers. The US footwear brand also has tennis, golf and running shoes in its repertoire, and you might not believe it, but they are some of the best running shoes to use in Australia
The Zero Grand range, from Cole Haan, features men's running shoes all with extreme cushioning that was inspired by walking on the moon. Featuring a smart design and engineering, Zero Grand running shoes mimic the foot's natural movement, so you can run smoothly with less fatigue.
Their running shoes are all lightweight, exceptionally comfortable, and are packaged in a classic running shoe design. Available in a variety of colours, with rubber outsoles, and mesh uppers for breathability and incredible comfort.
The Zero Grand range, from Cole Haan, features men's running shoes all with extreme cushioning that was inspired by walking on the moon. Featuring a smart design and engineering, Zero Grand running shoes mimic the foot's natural movement, so you can run smoothly with less fatigue.
Their running shoes are all lightweight, exceptionally comfortable, and are packaged in a classic running shoe design. Available in a variety of colours, with rubber outsoles, and mesh uppers for breathability and incredible comfort.
On Running Cloudflow
For the technical runner
Swiss company On Running was founded to "revolutionise the sensation of running." Their range of running shoes is best suited to road-runners in Australia and feature On Running’s signature CloudTec technology.
The highly adaptive sole reduces muscle fatigue and lowers your heart rate thanks to its multi-directional cushioning that ensures that your feet feel supported but never restricted.
The insoles of all On Running’s CloudTec running shoes, such as in the Cloudflow, have fantastic arch support, and the laces come down rather low on the toe to reduce the chance of shin splints. If you're after ultimate comfort, On Running’s running shoes, available in several styles, and playful colours, are a fantastic option.
The highly adaptive sole reduces muscle fatigue and lowers your heart rate thanks to its multi-directional cushioning that ensures that your feet feel supported but never restricted.
The insoles of all On Running’s CloudTec running shoes, such as in the Cloudflow, have fantastic arch support, and the laces come down rather low on the toe to reduce the chance of shin splints. If you're after ultimate comfort, On Running’s running shoes, available in several styles, and playful colours, are a fantastic option.
Athletic Propulsion Labs TechLoom Pro
For the runner wanting a bit of luxury
Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) has a truly incredible range of running shoes all of which feature impressive technology, and are extremely comfortable. We recommend APL’s Techloom Pro running shoes range for the best running experience.
The TechLoom Pro sneaker has sculpted heels to provide a full range of motion, a non-stretch forefoot to keep your feet stable and secure, and a lightweight Propellium midsole to provide superior comfort and durable structural integrity that lasts longer than conventional EVA midsoles. The Techloom Pro sneaker is designed and engineered to withstand and protect your feet during your jog or run, no matter the intensity.
The TechLoom Pro sneaker has sculpted heels to provide a full range of motion, a non-stretch forefoot to keep your feet stable and secure, and a lightweight Propellium midsole to provide superior comfort and durable structural integrity that lasts longer than conventional EVA midsoles. The Techloom Pro sneaker is designed and engineered to withstand and protect your feet during your jog or run, no matter the intensity.
Asics Gel-Nimbus Lite 2
For neutral runners
ASICS, founded in 1949, is one of the best-known sportswear brands globally. Of course, this is because they produce high-quality products that are durable and comfortable. ASICS is actually an acronym for the Latin saying, "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano", which translates to 'you should pray for a healthy mind in a healthy body'.
ASICS' Gel Nimbus running shoes range offers maximum cushioning and bounce, to protect your feet and lower legs from impacts on hard surfaces. The ASICS Gel technology delivers compression in the heel, for excellent shock absorption and softness, and is made with breathable fabrics. If you're after comfortable running shoes, ASICS is one of the best running shoe brands on the market.
ASICS' Gel Nimbus running shoes range offers maximum cushioning and bounce, to protect your feet and lower legs from impacts on hard surfaces. The ASICS Gel technology delivers compression in the heel, for excellent shock absorption and softness, and is made with breathable fabrics. If you're after comfortable running shoes, ASICS is one of the best running shoe brands on the market.
Altra Running Provision 6
For runners needing a balanced footing
US sports footwear producer Altra Running was something of a revelation when it was founded. They introduced a new technology called ‘Balanced Cushioning’ that positions the heel and forefoot at equal distances from the ground, providing a more neutral footing than other running shoes, and ultimately providing you with optimal alignment, better running form, and a lower impact on landing.
Every pair Altra Running running shoes, such as the Provision 6, are built with Balanced Cushioning as well as EGO midsoles for ample cushioning, which is why it’s no surprise Altra Running’s running shoes have found legions of fans within the running community.
Every pair Altra Running running shoes, such as the Provision 6, are built with Balanced Cushioning as well as EGO midsoles for ample cushioning, which is why it’s no surprise Altra Running’s running shoes have found legions of fans within the running community.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
For runners needing a wider fit
New Balance has footwear styles for all manner of sports, but running is where their heart truly lies. Their Fresh Foam range of running shoes offers a premium combination of comfort and support, making them some of the best running shoes for long distances.
The Fresh Foam midsole, featured on all of New Balance’s running shoes, provides the wearer with more energy for more assistance on each stride. A ‘Hypoknit’ knitted upper layer is on hand to caress your foot in comfort while New Balance's Ultra Heel design stays snug to the back of the foot to keep it well-supported. If you want to keep your feet as comfortable as possible while you run, New Balance running shoes are the way to go.
The Fresh Foam midsole, featured on all of New Balance’s running shoes, provides the wearer with more energy for more assistance on each stride. A ‘Hypoknit’ knitted upper layer is on hand to caress your foot in comfort while New Balance's Ultra Heel design stays snug to the back of the foot to keep it well-supported. If you want to keep your feet as comfortable as possible while you run, New Balance running shoes are the way to go.
Skechers GOrun Speed Freek
For the runner needing extra grip
Skechers has a whole range of designated running shoes that are comfortable and feature innovative technologies. Whether you’re a serious runner or a casual jogger, Skechers will have the perfect shoe for your needs. However, we have to suggest the GOrun Speed Freak.
Skechers’ GOrun Speed Freek is a high-cushioned performance running shoe designed to allow you to perform your best whilst running. This ultra-lightweight shoe features a breathable athletic mono mesh upper with ‘HYPER BURST’ cushioned midsole, ‘HYPER ARC’ technology, carbon infused winglet plate, and a Goodyear performance outsole for ultimate ankle and arch support, cushioning, and comfort. It certainly earns its place on this list of best running shoes.
Skechers’ GOrun Speed Freek is a high-cushioned performance running shoe designed to allow you to perform your best whilst running. This ultra-lightweight shoe features a breathable athletic mono mesh upper with ‘HYPER BURST’ cushioned midsole, ‘HYPER ARC’ technology, carbon infused winglet plate, and a Goodyear performance outsole for ultimate ankle and arch support, cushioning, and comfort. It certainly earns its place on this list of best running shoes.
Enda Sportswear Lapatet
For the daily runner
Enda Sportswear, founded in 2016 from a crowdfunding campaign, made the first high-performance athletic shoes in Africa. Today, the brand’s shoes are designed to help you get the most from each workout and are made in a way that will have a positive impact on the world.
Enda Sportswear has several styles of running shoes for men available to buy right now, but our pick would have to be the Lapatet. The latest version of this running shoe features a reworked knitted upper for added comfort, a 6mm heel to toe drop and is incredibly lightweight. It's one of the best running shoes you can find for your daily runs. If you want to compete, you may need to look elsewhere on this list of best running shoes.
Enda Sportswear has several styles of running shoes for men available to buy right now, but our pick would have to be the Lapatet. The latest version of this running shoe features a reworked knitted upper for added comfort, a 6mm heel to toe drop and is incredibly lightweight. It's one of the best running shoes you can find for your daily runs. If you want to compete, you may need to look elsewhere on this list of best running shoes.