5 Lightest Running Shoes We’ve Tested and Recommend
We found the lightest running shoe in each category—from super shoe racers to max-cushioned trainers—to help you fly through the miles.
Author
Jonathan Beverly
Jonathan Beverly, Outside’s senior running gear editor, has been the editor of Running Times, shoe editor and columnist for Runner’s World, and author of Your Best Stride and Run Strong, Stay Hungry. He ran his first marathon when he was 16 and has coached runners of all levels, from beginners to marathoners, high school to masters competitors.
My Stories
These Are the Trail Shoes We Personally Use for Our Longest Runs
With virtually unlimited choices for footwear, Outside editors reveal what we reach for when the miles are long and the terrain is unpredictable.
8 Hand-Picked Running Shoes That Nail the Clean Aesthetic
A minimalist style characterized by effortless, polished looks featuring neutral colors is all the rage right now—yet hard to find in running shoes. So we combed through our annual gear guide to bring you the best shoes of the year that you can find in white, black, and tan.
An Altra for (Almost) All: Altra Experience Flow 2 First Run Review
We put the Altra Experience Flow 2 through its paces and found that it's a fun, comfortable, and versatile daily trainer for those who want Altra’s unique toe space with some heel-toe drop and a bouncy new ride.
Research Shows Your Running Shoe Color Could Impact Your Speed. Here’s Why
There’s a reason you’re drawn to certain running shoe colors. And giving in to those interests could help you land your next PR using color psychology.
Boston Marathon Advice—the Secrets to Nailing the Downhills
The pros who ran Boston's downhills best take us through the course. Expert advice from Des Linden, Ryan Hall and Bill Rodgers.
Podiatrists’ Advice on What to Look for in a Stability Shoe and This Year’s Best Models
These 12 innovative running shoes will keep you stable without sacrificing comfort or holding you back
Why Runners Should Treat Winter as a Training Tool
5 Reasons to run outside all winter — and get stronger, tougher, faster, healthier and happier.
Welcome to Running: What New Runners Need to Know
9 keys for new runners to make your running more enjoyable, more effective, and more sustainable.
Super Shoe Showdown 2025: The Best Racers Head-to-Head in the Lab and on Testers’ Feet
We lab-tested and ran in 19 super shoes, comparing their ride so you can find the one that best fits your stride