The Best Running Shoes in 2022
In this post, I will be discussing the best running shoes of 2022. Do note that this list only includes shoes that were newly released in 2022.
Top Racing Shoes
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Best Short Distance Racer (5k,10k)
The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8 is a top pick for shorter distances. Coming in at a mere 192 grams / 6.8oz (Men's US 9), the Takumi Sen 8 has an excellent cushion-to-weight ratio. It's protective, mildly bouncy, and nimble enough for the shorter stuff. The milder toe spring and TPU rods allow for a more natural ride. This results in slightly less of a leg-saving feeling for longer distances, but a more responsive nature that shines especially during sharp turns or in the final 200m sprint of a shorter race.
Best Long Distance Racer (Half-Marathon, Full-Marathon)
The Xtep 160x 3.0 Pro is a shoe that blew me away when I tried it on. If I were to evaluate all plated racers of this year and lump them into a single category, this hands down would be my shoe of the year. The Xtep Ace foam is the best foam I've used in a carbon-plated shoe. It has a perfect blend of softness without being mushy, while also being extremely bouncy. While the heavier weight of 238 grams / 8.4oz holds it back from the shorter races, the 40/36mm stack of springy foam feels amazing for longer races or repeats. Longer, sustained efforts are where this shoe truly shines; foot transitions feel effortless. Did I mention that the CPU outsole grip is superb too? The only drawbacks I can think of are that the heel might be unstable for some and that the toebox is a little shallow.
Best All-Round Racer (Versatile)
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is a big step up from its past 2 iterations. With a higher stack of softer PWRRUN PB foam complimenting its SPEEDROLL geometry, the Pro 3 has a dynamic feel that would work for distances from 5km to the marathon. Springy and responsive, everyday runners will find this pair more forgiving and versatile than the likes of the Nike Vaporfly Next% 2. Its breathable mesh upper also makes this pair probably the most breathable carbon-plated shoe out there; just look at the ventilation holes! The 204 grams/7.2oz makes the Pro 3 optimal for short distances, while its nearly maxed out stack at 39.5mm/31.5mm and 8mm drop keeps it protective enough for longer distances.
Best Lightweight Trainers
3. Hoka Mach 5
The Hoka Mach 5 is a commendable step up from its firm predecessor, the Mach SS. The dual-density setup provides a pleasantly soft landing and a decently responsive toe-off. Coming in at 232 grams / 8.2oz, The Mach 5 feels great during steady-to-tempo runs, while still being protective enough for easy paces. However, one of the main issues that limit the Mach's potential is its poor outsole durability.
2. New Balance FuelCell Rebel V3
With a 1.5mm stack increase and a wider midsole platform over the v2, the Rebel v3 has further established itself as one of the best lightweight trainers in the market. The ride is soft, akin to stepping on a bubble. At 218 grams / 7.4oz for a US 9.5 (I went up half a size), running in the rebel v3 at most paces has been an absolute joy. Although, I noticed that the upper for this iteration has gotten a little less breathable. The outsole remains the same as the v2, which faired quite poorly on durability too.
1. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
Saucony has been killing it this year! Like the Endorphin Pro 3, the Speed 3 also utilizes a softer formulation of PWRRUN PB. While not the best for slower paces. the Speed 3 is highly versatile while remaining comfortable and gentle on the foot with its flexible nylon plate. This nylon plate does not provide the same responsiveness as a carbon plate due to its flexibility but instead allows runners to use this pair for a wider variety of paces. Casual runners who are looking for a training shoe that doubles as a race-day shoe should definitely look into this pair!
Best Daily Trainers
3. Saucony Tempus
The Saucony Tempus has been a highly underrated trainer that offers mild stability through its guidance EVA Frame. You don't have to be flat-footed to enjoy the stable yet cushioned ride. While stability shoes tend to be on the firmer side, the Tempus strikes a good balance of cushioning and protectiveness. With its PWRRUN PB midsole, the Tempus is versatile enough to pick up the pace in, while still providing enough cushion for easy runs. I did a 24km progression run and found that the light stability helped my form during the later stages.
2. Puma Deviate Nitro 2
The Deviate Nitro 2, like many shoes on this list, has been a great update to its predecessor. Not only have the heel issues been resolved, but the introduction of Puma's Nitro Elite has dramatically improved the ride of the Deviate Nitro 2. While the stiff plate limits versatility for true easy and recovery paces, many runners would be able to use this pair for just about anything. Puma Grip in the outsole has great durability and traction in all weather conditions too!
1. Asics Novablast 3
The Asics Novablast 3 is truly an interesting shoe. I initially found the ride a little sluggish when I wore it around the house. It was a totally different story during the run. Asics has found a winner with the ride of the Novablast. Recovery runs, easy runs, steady runs, long runs, tempos, you name it, the shoe does it. While I wouldn't race or do intervals in it, this daily trainer performs extremely well for anything tempo and slower. If Asics looks into improving outsole durability, this shoe would be near perfect for many runners.
Best Max Cushioned
3. New Balance FuelCell SC Trainer
The SC trainer boasts a stack height of 47mm fuel cell goodness, while a full-length carbon plate stabilizes this marshmallow of a shoe. This shoe either works for you or doesn't. While some runners might find it too soft and unstable, the SC Trainer rewards good form, feeling buttery smooth when running at steady paces. Built for long runs, I found myself effortlessly cruising through the miles. However, there are some chaffing issues near the lateral ankle portion of the shoe which potentially could cause blisters. Outsole durability is also a potential area of concern.
2. New Balance Fresh Foam X More V4
The Fresh Foam More v4 has a great blend of softness and responsiveness. While I disliked the firm and dull ride of its cousin, the 1080v12, the geometry, and higher stack height noticeably changed the feel of the EVA midsole. There's a slight bounce to its soft and highly vibration-dampening ride which feels really good during easy and recovery runs. I'm hoping the midsole can be a little more lively in future versions to further improve on this great max-cushioned trainer.
1. Saucony Triumph 20
The Saucony Triumph 20 has a bouncy ride that feels amazing during my runs. Despite its heavier weight, the responsiveness of this midsole makes me feel like I could run endlessly. I found myself reaching for this pair the most despite having so many options, just because of how good the shoe feels on foot. I noticed, however, that lighter runners are not able to enjoy the midsole as much.
One thing to note: The outsole is pretty slippery when wet, so be careful during rainy weather.
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