TREADMILL RUNNING

Do extreme weather conditions prevent you from running? Boiling or frigid temperatures can discourage your running progress. Whether you’re using the treadmill to avoid weather highs or lows, for safety at night, or you’re trying to improve your running pace, the treadmill is a favorite for many. Easier on the joints, the treadmill can also be the safer option and give you more control over your run. It can help you practice for different terrains that may not be near where you live – hilly terrain for people that live on relatively flat land or flat land for people that live in hilly areas. With how popular the treadmill is, we wanted to create a guide showcasing the best shoes for treadmill running. You’ll want the right pair of shoes to avoid blisters and joint paint and help you run faster. Keep reading to find out the best shoes for treadmill running!

BEST OVERALL TREADMILL RUNNING SHOES

For the beginners who don’t know where to start, you’ll want a durable shoe that will get the job done. A shoe that will keep up with your speed. Something that has stability but is also lightweight. Here are our top picks:

BROOKS GHOST 16

With an improved fit to better mold to your foot and DNA LOFTv3 cushioning in the midsole, the Ghost 16 is made for a smooth treadmill ride. This shoe is not too springy and provides just the right amount of feedback. The segmented crash pad allows for an easy transition from landing to toe-off. These are tried and true running shoes that you should try on your next treadmill run.

PUMA DEVIATE NITRO 2

The Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is a great all-around shoe that is good for road and treadmill runs. It has a comfortable mesh upper, and an impact absorbing midsole that helps propel you forward. The Deviate Nitro 2 has great stability and outsole grip, along with a carbon-plate that dismisses fatigue and returns energy during your run.

BEST CROSS-TRAINING TREADMILL RUNNING SHOES

When you’re on the treadmill at the gym or at home you might need a shoe that will get you through various other workouts. You’ll need something with a breathable material that allows for airflow, along with a midsole that can take the pressure of weight training. Here are a few of our top picks:

AIR ZOOM NIKE PEGASUS 40

With its comfortable design and data-backed breathability, the Air Zoom Nike Pegasus 40 is the perfect fit for days on the treadmill and in the gym. This neutral shoe is lightweight and cushioned with technology that helps keep your foot in place during your run or daily workout. The Nike React foam has perfect responsiveness that’s durable for you to go your long distances – including a toe tip that helps propel you forward.

BEST HIGH CUSHION TREADMILL RUNNING SHOES

Running on a treadmill is a constant repetitive striking movement in a straight line, so some people will need a shoe with more cushioned support to prevent foot pain. Carbon-fiber shoes are great for the longer runs. Here are a few of our top picks:

HOKA BONDI 8

The reviews are in and people love the Hoka Bondi 8 for treadmill running. Perfect for those days your legs need the extra support on those recovery runs. This lightweight shoe is breathable with a memory foam collar to support the ankle with plush comfort. The rear crash pad helps provide a stable ride from heel-strike to forefoot transition.

ON CLOUDSTRATUS V3

This is the first On model to have connected Cloudtec® layers, which offers double the cushioning and absorbs impact. With On’s signature Helion™ superfoam, it will feel as if you’re running on clouds. It has a customized fit with a wider forefoot and a heel hold with a star-lacing system for support. It’s everything you would want in a cushioned versatile running shoe for the treadmill.

BEST SPEED TREADMILL RUNNING SHOES

Who doesn’t like to go fast? If you’re trying to achieve your personal best record you might need to invest in a pair of shoes that will increase your speed. Carbon fiber material running shoes may wear faster, so don’t forget to alternate these out and not use them for every time you run. Here are some of our picks for a shoe that can help you smash that PR!

ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4

Looking for a shoe that is lightweight but still has the cushion? Look no further. With the responsive FF BLAST™ foam, you can have a fast run without the bulkiness of a heavy midsole. The breathable mesh upper keeps you cool and dry while the taller midsole design creates a comfortable rocking experience that can help push you off. The guidesole technology helps propel your foot forward and reduces the overall load on your feet. Try this shoe out the next time you decide to do a quick 5K on the treadmill!

HOKA MACH 6

The Mach 5 is the perfect combination of speed and comfort for the treadmill. It creates explosive energy through it’s impact absorbing ultralight cushioning, transforming your run faster. The removable insole is inclusive for those with feet pain, allowing use of custom orthotics. With great breathability and the PROFLY foam midsole, it is very responsive for those long run days you feel like explosive speed.

CRUSH YOUR TREADMILL RUNNING

Running on the treadmill can be an easy way to stay consistent in your running progress — without the weather or the safety of the area around you getting in the way. At the end of the day, the perfect shoe fit is different for everyone. Finding the best running shoe for the treadmill can be trial and error, but visiting your local Fit2Run and getting fitted by our Fit Experts will help!

Alex Dougherty