Spring is here and we know that all you running lovers are mad to hit the road! So before you do, we’ve put together this comprehensive Running Shoe Review so you get the pair that you need.

This comprehensive review examines each contender, ensuring that whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, your next step is supported by the best.

So if you’re preparing for a marathon, the VHI Women’s Mini-Marathon or just a casual run, you will love this!

This year’s lineup has some amazing running shoes, that cater to diverse running styles and environments.

We’ve got all the big running brands included – Hoka, Nike, adidas, ON Running, ASICS and Brooks.

You might find some worth in our Running Shoe Size Guide Blog.

If not, read on for the best new running shoes on the market right now!

Runner Review Cushion Explained

So before we go through the contenders, it’s important that you are aware of your foot type.

If you already know, then skip ahead.

But if not, this 30 seconds could make a huge difference in your running.

On the Intersport Elverys website, you may notice discriptions like Neutral, Stability and Maximum Comfort. These are all to do with your pronation.

Make sure to call into select Intersport Elverys stores to aveil of our SafeSize 3D foot measuring service to find exactly what type of pronotation you have.

Below are the different types to be aware of.

 

2024 Running Shoe Review: Our Top Picks

Nike Structure 25 

Overview: The Nike Structure 25 continues with Nike’s legacy of providing both stability and support for runners requiring a bit extra due to overpronation.

It has a sleek, attractive design, stacked with performance features and also really comfortable.

You’ll get cushion and responsiveness, making it ideal for daily runs.

Key Features: 

• Weight: 11 oz (312 g).
• Price: €130.
• Design: Features an engineered mesh upper for breathability and comfort, Dynamic Fit technology for a snug and supportive fit, and a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for responsive cushioning. The shoe also incorporates a firm foam at the arch side of the midsole for added stability.
• Performance: Ideal for runners looking for a stable ride during long runs, tempo runs, and everyday training. Its design caters to those with a moderate to severe overpronation, offering the necessary support without compromising on cushioning or comfort.
• Fit and Comfort: Offers a secure fit with room for natural foot movement. The Structure 25 is praised for its improved upper that contours to the foot, providing a seamless and comfortable experience throughout the run.

Pros:

• Enhanced stability for overpronators.
• Responsive cushioning with Zoom Air unit.
• Durable outsole for varied running surfaces.

Cons:

• May feel bulkier to runners used to minimalist shoes.
• Some runners might find it less breathable compared to other models.

Conclusion: No matter your goals, the Structure 25 is a great all rounder.

You’ll get support and stability which doesn’t comprimise resposiveness and comfort.

If you’re an overpronator, the Structure 25 is for you.

It’s not the lightest shoe on the market, but you get excellent durability and versatility for a lot of different activities.

Brooks Glycerin 21

Overview: If absolute comfort is what you are after in a running shoe, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is a great choice.

Designed for runners who want a soft, cushioned ride, the latest version of the Glycerin is Brooks’ best yet.

It also has state-of-the-art cushioning technology and is made with premium materials, yet is also really good on the environment.

Such as being made with 59.7 % Recycled materials in the upper and 4.1 Plastic bottles diverted from landfills.

Key Features:

• Weight: 10.2 oz (289 g).
• Price: €180.
• Design: Boasts an engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and fit, coupled with the DNA LOFT cushioning for a supremely soft and responsive ride. The 3D Fit Print technology offers structure and stretch where needed.
• Performance: Excellently suited for runners who prioritise comfort over long distances. It provides a smooth transition and efficient energy return, making it versatile for various paces and distances.
• Fit and Comfort: Offers a spacious toe box and a snug, secure fit around the midfoot and heel. The shoe runs true to size, delivering exceptional comfort and support, thanks to its plush interior and cushioned collar.

Pros:

• Supreme comfort with DNA LOFT cushioning.
• Durable with high-quality construction.
• Versatile for various running distances and paces.

Cons:

• High price point may not suit all budgets.
• Some runners might find the shoe slightly bulky for speedwork or races.

Conclusion: The Glycerin 21 certainly stands out in this running shoe review.

It has exceptional comfort, built to be highly durable and suitable for both short and long runs.

Yes, the price is on the higher side, and if you’re after speed this is probably not your running shoe, but the investment is well worth it given the quality you are getting otherwise.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

Overview: The Gel-Nimbus series from ASICS are one of the most popular on the market.

Known for their exceptional comfort and cloud-like running feeling, it’s the go-to for neutral runners.

The improvements in this model have enhance comfort even more and upped the performance, so you get a more responsive feel without sacrificing plushness.

The most expensive running shoe in this review, you can use this as your daily trainer or a log-distance run.

Key Features:

• Weight: 10.9 oz (309 g).
• Price: €200.
• Design: Features an updated mesh upper for improved breathability and a better fit, GEL® technology cushioning in the forefoot and rearfoot for superior shock absorption, and a FlyteFoam® Propel midsole for a more energetic return. The AHAR® outsole enhances durability and traction.
• Performance: Offers a balanced ride with excellent shock absorption and responsiveness, making it suitable for long runs, recovery days, and everything in between. The improved stability is a bonus for runners with a neutral gait.
• Fit and Comfort: The shoe offers a comfortable, glove-like fit, thanks to its updated upper design. It runs true to size, providing ample room in the toe box while ensuring a secure fit through the midfoot and heel.

Pros:

• Superior cushioning and shock absorption.
• Durable construction, suitable for high mileage.
• Responsive and comfortable for various types of runs.

Cons:

• The high price point may put some runners off.
• Some may find it heavier than other options, potentially affecting performance in speed-focused runs.

Conclusion: The Gel-Nimbus 26 is a premium choice of running shoe that has comfort, support and performance.

There is also increased durability, which is expected given its higher price point.

If you can afford to stretch to it, you will not be disappointed with the Gel-Nimbus 26 from this running shoe review.

Hoka Arahi 7

Overview: Hoka running shoes are massively in demand these days.

They offer some of the most stylish on the market, yet are one of the most affordable.

And they punch well above their weight.

The Arahi 7 is a popular stability show for runners who like a bit more support without extra weight.

This version from Hoka has innovative J-Frame Technoloy rhat makes it excellent for long runs and quick jobs.

We expect this shoe to be massively popular.

Key Features:

• Weight: 9.6 oz (272 g).
• Price: €150.
• Design: Features a lightweight, engineered mesh upper for enhanced breathability and comfort. The J-Frame™ technology provides support and stability without the use of rigid and heavy materials. The EVA midsole delivers Hoka’s signature cushioning.
• Performance: Excellently suited for overpronators or runners seeking stability without sacrificing speed or comfort. The shoe offers a smooth ride with its balanced cushioning and supportive design.
• Fit and Comfort: Fits true to size with a roomy toe box and a secure midfoot fit. The padded tongue and collar enhance the overall comfort, making it suitable for long-distance running.

Pros:

• Lightweight design with stability features.
• Comfortable and breathable upper.
• Suitable for a wide range of running activities.

Cons:

• May not provide enough support for runners with severe overpronation.
• The design might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.

Conclusion: The Hoka Arahi 7 is perfect is you’re looking for support but don’t want to be weighed down from it either!

It’s versatile for your training runs, jogs and longer distances.

Might not be suitable for those with significant overpronation, however, more ideal for the majority of stability seekers.

For value for money, you can’t get better than this stylish all-rounder.

Nike Zoom Fly 5

Overview: The Nike Zoom Fly 5 stands as a transformative update in the Zoom Fly series, shifting from a fast workout/tempo run shoe to one that caters to

long, slower runs.

It’s noted for its increased comfort, stability, and cushioning.

We also think it’s one of the most asthetically pleasing in this running shoe review.

Key Features:

• Weight: 9.5 oz (270 g).
• Price: €170
• Design: The Zoom Fly 5 features a full-length ZoomX core in the midsole, a more traditional upper with a detached, gusseted tongue, and a wider midsole base for extra stability.
• Upper: The upper unit has been revised for better comfort and lockdown, feeling more like a daily trainer.

Pros:

1. Improved outsole durability.
2. The most stable version in the Zoom Fly series.
3. Softer and more comfortable than its predecessors.
4. Excellent upper comfort.
5. Increased cushioning.

Cons:

1. Slower than previous versions of the Zoom Fly.
2. The ZoomX core does not feel as bouncy as expected.

Conclusion: The Nike Zoom Fly 5 has evolved into a shoe better suited for longer runs, offering a softer and more cushioned midsole.

However, it’s noted for a lack of bounce and energy return, making it less suitable for speed work or uptempo runs.

The shoe offers stable and protective padding for long distances but falls short in responsiveness and agility compared to other options in the same category​​​​​​.

However, it’s still a great all-rounder and everyday shoe for you busy people.

Adidas Adizero Boston 12

Overview: The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 has evolved to feel more like a daily trainer than a speed trainer.

It features a softer ride and more flexible Energyrods, making it less rockered than previous versions. And we have to say, it looks really, really cool.

Key Features:

• Weight: 9.4 oz (266 g).
• Price: €160.
• Design: Updated midsole with Lightstrike Pro foam and glass-fibre energy rods, softer and more flexible forefoot.
• Upper: Lighter and more flexible than previous version, but less comfortable.

Pros:

1. Softer and more stable ride.
2. Sleeker design.
3. Weight reduction.

Cons:

1. Less rockered.
2. Less akin to the ride of the Adios Pro.

Conclusion: The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is best suited as a durable daily trainer for those easy runs.

While it provides a softer ride and is lighter compared to its predecessor, it leans more towards being a daily trainer than a workout shoe or speed trainer.

The durable outsole, featuring Continental rubber, is a standout feature for its longevity, so you will get a good healthy lifespan out of it.

However, it may not be the top choice for runners seeking a shoe similar to the Adios Pro 3 or a more energetic, light speed trainer​​​​​​.

Brooks Ghost Max

Overview: The Brooks Ghost Max is a well-rounded daily trainer offering a balanced ride with good stability.

As a spinoff of the regular Ghost series, which has proven hugey popular with Intersport Elverys customers,  it offers a softer, more cushioned, and lively ride compared to the Ghost 15, making it a good choice for various runs.

Plus, it looks really cool too!

Key Features:

• Weight: 10 oz (283 g).
• Price: €160
• Design: Higher stack height, softer cushioning with DNA Loft v2 foam, and a stable, wide base.
• Upper: Comfortable fit, true to size, but laces may fray easily.

Pros:

1. Comfortable, luxurious upper.
2. Softer and more cushioned than the regular Ghost.
3. More forefoot cushioning.
4. Modern and stable ride.

Cons:

1. Lower than average outsole durability.
2. Laces prone to fraying.

Conclusion: The Brooks Ghost Max emerges as a more modern and engaging version of the traditional Ghost.

It’s suitable for a variety of runs, offering a balance between softness for easy runs and firmness for uptempo paces. However, it may not be as stable as the regular Ghost due to its firmer midsole and more lean bias.

The Ghost Max is ideal for those who found the Ghost 15 too firm but might not appeal to Ghost loyalists who prefer its consistent firmness and stability​​​​​​. The Ghost 15 was one of the best all-rounders we’ve ever had and this is picking up where it left off.

ASICS Novablast 4 

Overview: This shoe is designed with energy return in mind, and ASICS have spent hours testing it at their Institute of Sports Science (ISS) in Japan.

The NOVABLAST™ 4 is characterised as a firm-riding daily trainer, leaning more towards faster-paced runs.

Compared to its predecessors, it offers increased stability but sacrifices some of the signature bounciness that Novablast shoes were known for. But that might suit a lot of you die-hard ASICS fans!

Key Features:

• Weight: 9 oz (255 g).
• Price: €150
• Design: New FF Blast+ Eco midsole for better stability, modern upper design.
• Performance: Suited more for uptempo runs due to its firmer ride.

Pros:

1. Better stability with firmer midsole.
2. More comfortable and cooler upper.
3. Faster ride compared to previous versions.

Cons:

1. Less bouncy and fun than earlier Novablast models.
2. Increase in weight.
3. Firmer ride, which might not be suitable for all runners.

Conclusion: The ASICS Novablast 4 marks a shift in the series, moving away from the playful and bouncy characteristics towards a more stable, but firmer ride.

This change might appeal to runners looking for a firmer, more responsive trainer but may disappoint those who enjoyed the distinctive bouncy feel of the earlier versions.

While its design remains sleek and modern, the Novablast 4’s firmer direction has altered its overall appeal and versatility​​​​​​. Plus, there’s a variety of colours to choose from.

 

ON Cloudflow 4

Overview: The ON Cloudflow 4.0 is an evolution of its predecessor, designed as a lightweight training/performance shoe with a versatile and low-profile build.

It excels in stability and responsiveness, making it a standout option among the lightest daily trainers available​.

ON Running shoes really make you stand out from the crowd the Cloudflow 4 will do just that too.

Key Features:

• Weight: The shoe is impressively light, weighing 8.7 oz (247 g)
• Price: €170.
• Design: It features a new engineered woven upper for breathability and a new dual density Helion midsole with a spoon-shaped speedboard. The shoe also has a new outsole with a closed channel to prevent stone trapping​​.
• Performance: Classified as a lightweight training shoe, it offers firm and responsive cushioning. The shoe is designed with a Rocker geometry around the forefoot area, enhancing forward momentum. Suitable for various paces and distances, it’s particularly effective for interval training speeds​​​​.

Pros:

1. Comfort and Fit: Fits true to size with a medium width, accommodating average-sized feet. The upper is breathable, flexible, and roomy, providing comfort during runs​​​​​​.
2. Performance Enhancing: The rocker geometry combined with the new speedboard aids in smooth transition and forward movement. It’s excellent for tempo training and offers an enjoyable rolling momentum​​.
3. Sustainability: ON incorporates sustainably made, recycled materials into the shoe, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly practices​​.

Cons:

1. Price: Some may find it expensive relative to the features provided​​​​.
2. Cushioning: The foam may be excessively firm for some runners, particularly those who prefer a softer, more cloud-like feel​​​​​​.
3. Narrow Fit: The midfoot fit is somewhat narrow, potentially making it less suitable for those with wider feet​​​​​​.

Conclusion: The ON Cloudflow 4 is a high-performance, moderately cushioned running shoe that shines in tempo training. Its innovative design, including the rockered forefoot and lightweight, breathable upper, offers a unique running experience.

While its firm cushioning and price point may not appeal to everyone, its stability, durability, and unique rolling momentum make it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and versatile training shoe.

It is particularly recommended for fans of the ON brand looking for a daily trainer suitable for various paces and distances, as well as for those seeking an environmentally conscious option​.

Conclusion

The 2024 running shoe lineup brings forth an array of options that excel in durability, comfort, and technology from Intersport Elverys.

We love our running and we’re committed to bringing you the best Running Shoe Review you can get.

So we hope you enjoyed this blog and all your running for 2024.

Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Running Blog. 

Remember, the perfect running shoe not only complements your stride but also enhances your journey towards personal bests and beyond

Don’t forget about other important pieces of equipment you might need too.

Our Guide to Finding the Right Sports Bra and our Guide to Finding the Right Leggings is sure to help.

Enjoy the run, we’re with you every step of the way.