So far this summer we’ve seen a ton of new running shoes hit the market — but which styles are really worth checking out and slipping on?
It can be really challenging to decide, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. You might want soft cushioning and a responsive fit. Or you might be looking added support and stability.
No matter what you want in a running shoe, there’s a style out there for you — and several designs have been upgraded with advanced features for 2026. You’ll find new sneakers from all your favorite brands too, including Brooks.
To help you narrow down what type of running shoes best fit your needs, we did our homework and rounded up the ones you need to try.
Here are some of the top-rated running shoes of summer and what wearers actually have to say about them.
New summer running shoe releases, from Brooks & more
Here are some of this summer’s running shoe styles we recommend trying.
Brooks Ghost 18: $150
Best for: Road running, daily runs, walking & balanced support
Why you’ll love it:
Brooks’ new Ghost 18 running shoe is filled with plush, nitrogen-infused cushioning that’s designed to be responsive and propel you forward, while still keeping landings soft. The sneaker has a supportive fit with a more comfortable sockliner and a softer flat-knit tongue that protects the top of your foot.
The Brooks Ghost 18 sneaker has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance for its foot health benefits, making this shoe a winner with wearers.
It comes in men’s and women’s sizes, as well as wide, extra-wide and narrow widths.
What wearers have to say:
“Love the updates for the Ghost 18. Comfortable right out of the box! The shoe feels more roomy overall, less bulky on the top and the tongue, excellent cushion with some spring for little pick ups.”
HOKA Clifton 11: $155
Best for: Everyday running and walking
Why you’ll love it:
HOKA’s Clifton 11 running and walking shoe is loved for its lightweight, plush engineering. It creates an effortless ride with its cushioned, compression-molded foam midsole.
The Clifton 11 has a breathable mesh upper that locks the foot in place for a secure fit. The shoe also features reflective detailing and a durable, abrasion-resistant rubber outsole for enhanced traction.
HOKA’s Clifton 11 sneaker has also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, so you know it’s a great shoe for your feet.
It comes in men’s and women’s sizes, as well as wide and extra-wide sizes.
What wearers say:
“So comfortable! After being on your feet all day exercising, working or just walking your feet feel great.”
ASICS GT-2000 15: $150
Best for: Everyday running and training
Why you’ll love it:
ASICS’ GT-2000 15 running shoe is made for everyday wear with its lightweight design and dynamic cushioning that gives each step an added bounce. In this generation, the running shoe has an FF Blast Max cushioned midsole that’s now softer and plusher.
The GT-2000 15 also provides more support using ASICS’ 3D Guidance System. This technology is flexible, giving you stability when you need it, without feeling rigid, so your stride stays smooth.
ASICS’ GT-2000 15 sneaker comes in men’s and women’s sizes.
What wearers say:
“Tight fit, stays tied, nice cushion without it being too cushion-y.”
Saucony Triumph 24: $170
Best for: Everyday runs and long-mileage training
Why you’ll love it:
Saucony’s new Triumph 24 running shoe is made to move, while offering extreme comfort even during those longer training sessions.
The Triumph 24 is packed with comfortable incrediLUX foam that’s lightweight and extra-cushioned. It also comes with a breathable mesh upper and XT-900 carbon-rubber outsole for increased durability.
The Saucony Triumph 24 running shoe comes in men’s and women’s sizes, as well as wide widths.
What wearers say:
“The ride is smooth with nice cushion that hits that sweet spot, not too soft, or firm, and good energy return that feels like your body isn’t fighting it.”
New Balance Ellipse: $116-$145
Best for: Everyday running and all-day wear
Why you’ll love it:
New Balance’s Ellipse running shoe offers a springy step that keeps you going even on that last mile. The sneaker features responsive Fresh Foam X cushioning that gives you that added bounce underfoot.
The Ellipse has a lightweight fit and is crafted with a breathable mesh upper. It also has a grippy rubber outsole and reflective detailing for visibility.
The New Balance Ellipse sneaker comes in men’s and women’s sizes, as well as wide and extra-wide widths.
What wearers say:
“Bought these about a month ago and I have been wearing them regularly for walks and gym workouts. The cushioning is plush and responsive. Although the shoe looks big & bulky but it doesn’t feel heavy on foot.”