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Sixty-six runs. 36 hours. 163.5 miles. That’s the time and distance I logged running in 2022, according to my Nike Run Club app. But I wasn’t alone. I had help, of course—from my running shoes. Every mile and minute I ran, my shoes were right there with me.
Which is why choosing the running shoe that’s right for you is no small task. The shoes we lace up for our runs can make a big difference. Both our anatomy and our preferences come into play. Do you need shoes that support a neutral gait, or form correction for pronating? Do you need a wide toe box, or a narrower fit? Do you want to feel the road, or run on clouds?
In 2022, Well+Good readers (like you) were on the hunt for that Goldilocks pair. And based on what our readers actually bought, you weren’t going to just take a product description on its word.
“Far and away the data shows that readers want shoes podiatrists have approved, and for a specific activity or ailment,” Well+Good’s senior manager of commerce Catie Jaffe says. “It didn’t seem to matter as much about price or name brand (though everyone loves a sale), but more so about the claims the shoe makes in terms of how supportive or comfortable (check out the most comfortable running shoes) it will be for an activity, and whether an expert can approve that claim.”
That said, readers did have some fan favorites. Namely: shoes from Hoka One One. The brand known for thick soles and a wide base were some of our most-bought running sneakers. (And as an owner of the absolutely delicious-to-wear Bondi 8s, I can personally confirm your choices were good ones.) But Hokas weren’t the only brand y’all committed to. If you want to see what running shoes other Well+Good readers decided to cruise those miles in, here were some of the top sellers.
The 9 most popular running shoes Well+Good readers bought in 2022
On Cloudstratus — $169.99
With a wide forefront and 8mm drop, On’s Cloudstratus running shoes are the most supportive ones in their lineup, and are meant specifically for distance running.
Hoka Bondi SR — $175.00
Designed as an all day, every day shoe, these neutral support sneakers are recommended to help with foot pain, thanks to their plush cushioning. Plus, they’re made from water-resistant leather.
Hoka Kawana — $140.00
Hoka’s Kawana running shoes are designed to give both support and cushion. At 8.4 ounces, they’re slightly heavier than other Hokas, thanks to all the foam in the midsole, but it’s all there to help every stride feel comfortable.
Hoka Bondi 8 — $165.00
There’s no other way to put it: The eighth iteration of Hoka’s Bondi style are thicc and sexy. They are the most cushioned shoe Hoka offers, and Well+Good editors love them. You can read the full review here.
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 — $100.00
Originally $160, currently on sale for $100
These Asics are designed for shock absorption and stable support, which means they’re a more rigid shoe—making them a great choice for both running and walking.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 — $105.00
Originally $135, currently on sale for $105.
The flexible fabric and wide toe box of these New Balance shoes makes them a comfortable fit for most foot shapes. They’ve also got extra arch support and a whole lotta foam for a comfortable stride.
Hoka Clifton 8 — $140.00
Podiatrist-recommended specifically for people with high arches that need more support, the Cliftons are still flexible, light, and supportive.
Brooks Ghost 14 Road-Running Shoes — $110.00
Brooks’ DNA Loft cushioning in the midsoles help create a much softer ride and provide a smoother heel-to-toe transition as you pick up speed.
Vionic Zeliya Lace-Up Sneaker — $100.00
These laceless sneakers from ortho-brand Vionic feature a cushioned outsole and light, breathable upper. They serve as running shoes but are also great everyday slip-ons.
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