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Whether you love the treadmill or avoids it at all costs, having the proper footwear when you step on the polarizing cardio machine is crucial for making sure that you have a safe and effective workout. To help you clock miles safely, we researched and collected the best treadmill running shoes for different foot types, foot conditions, and treadmill workouts.
No matter how you feel about the treadmill, you can’t deny that it is a year-round option for runners and walkers alike. No matter if you are a 12-3-30 workout enthusiast or are looking to avoid bad winter weather for your long run, you can’t overlook the convenience and versatility of the treadmill.
While no running shoes are specifically made for treadmill running over road running, some models work better than others. “Shoes for treadmill running should be considerably lighter than outdoor running shoes,” explains Kelly Whittaker, 40 time marathoner and Barry’s Chief Curriculum Lead. “They should also have a lot of support in the base but still be cushioned and supportive to lessen the impact of running on the same surface repeatedly.”
Since treadmills offer a smooth, flat surface during the entirety of your run, you don’t have to worry too much about the tread and outsole like you do when you’re jogging on craggy city streets or trail running on rocky paths. Many prefer cushioned running shoes for the treadmill, because the machine’s hard surface can be tough on the shins and knees. Firm cushioning will soften the impact, which can help to prevent overuse and stress injuries. Depending on your workout though — i.e. interval training vs. power walking — you may want to seek out specific features in the shoes that are tailored to your exercise type and gait. Sprinters will want a sneaker with propulsive energy return, while those running upwards of six miles on the machine at a time should slip into a pair of long-distance running shoes.
For advice on selecting the right pair of treadmill running shoe for you, we spoke to Whittaker and board-certified podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Fuchs. We also used our own expertise in testing running gear to determine the top 10 treadmill workout shoes to lace up before you hit the gym.
Materials: DNA Loft foam, mesh upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 15 womens, 13 mens
Special features: GuideRail support works for all gait types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Brooks Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
What testers say: “Most comfortable shoe I have ever walked in and I walk 14,000 steps a day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.99
Materials: Mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 16 women’s, 19 men’s
Special features: Early-stage meta rocker helps you roll through the foot
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
What testers say: “These are the best! I’m now on my third pair. Won’t wear anything else! I had a knee replacement a year ago and it’s made walking so much easier!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Materials: Foam midsole, mesh upper, internal webbing
Colorways available: 8 women’s, 16 men’s
Special features: Flexible midsole moves with the feet
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “Love these shoes, they are perfect for working out and everyday wear. Also the delivery time was sooner than expected.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Related:
Best Nike Shoes
Best Nike Running Shoes
Best Nike Walking Shoes
Materials: Mesh upper, DNA Loft v3 foam, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 7 women’s, 7 men’s
Special features: GuideRails gently promote proper running form
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Brooks Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
What testers say: “I ordered these shoes because of my plantar fasciitis. My foot has complete support without the feeling of a chunky clunky shoe. I’m on my feet a minimum 12 to 14 hours a day between my health care job and my delivery driver job and these shoes get me through the day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Materials: 3D printed midsole, Primeknit upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 7 womens, 7 mens
Special features: 3D printed midsole
Adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “Looks better than in the pics. Toe box has just a little more room than the normal knit uppers, which I like actually. I like that I can slip them on and off and still workout in them.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $220
Related:
Best Adidas Walking Shoes
Best Adidas Running Shoes
Best Adidas Sneakers
Materials: Altra Ego max foam, mesh upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 5 womens, 5 mens
Special features: foot shaped last flares at toe box
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I have never written an online review until these shoes… I LOVE them. I run 30 miles a week and these serve as my easy running / every day training shoes. I was nervous about going into a zero drop but have had no issues. Will be repeat buying these.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $149.95
Materials: PureGel and FF Blast Plus eco foam, mesh upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 11 women’s, 11 men’s
Special features: Gel heel pad and bevel is great for heel strikers
Asics Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I get every version of the Kayano’s and these are nice and comfortable. They have a bit more cushion then prior versions. Great for running, walking and doing activities.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Materials: DNA Loft foam, mesh upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 5 womens, 5 mens
Special features: Glideroll rocker promotes smooth heel to toe transitions
Brooks Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Love the extra support in these super comfortable shoes. They have extra cushion and a thick shock absorbing sole.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Related:
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis
Materials: EVA midsole, mesh upper, rubber outsole
Colorways available: 21 womens, 25 mens
Special features: Plush cushioned midsole
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I bought the Bondi 8 specifically for a vacation that would be a lot of walking. These hands down are the best walking shoes I’ve ever bought. No foot or leg pain, when averaging 5 miles a day of walking. I loved the stability of the shoe and my foot was held in place.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $165
Materials: Mesh upper, Pwrrun foam, strategically placed rubber outsole
Colorways available: 15 women’s, 16 men’s
Special features: Incredibly lightweight and flexible
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “I absolutely love these. They’re forgiving enough that I’ll take them out for easy miles often, but also a really fast option. At a sub-6 min/mile pace they almost feel plated; might be unique to my cadence or form, but they’ve definitely become my anything shoes. I’m seeing signs of an impending blowout on the inside of one, but I probably have close to 400 miles in them so no biggie. I’ll buy again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
What to Look for in the Best Treadmill Running Shoes
- Cushioning: Unless you prefer a super lightweight or minimalist shoe, it’s often best to opt for a higher cushion model when it comes to treadmill shoes. Look for soft foams like EVA which are lightweight but offer a high level of plush cushioning. The shape of the midsole is also important; consider models with a curved shape or at least an upturned toe as this will help with turnover and allow you to run more smoothly and efficiently.
- Durable outsole: Though not as important as on a road shoe, you still want to make sure that your treadmill shoe has a decent, well, tread. Look for shoes that have moderately thick rubber outsoles. You don’t want them so thick that they weigh the shoe down, but the thicker the rubber, the longer the grip will last. Some shoes also opt for outsole only in high slip areas like the toe and heel, which will give you traction where you need it most.
- Breathability: Whether in a treadmill shoe or an all around running shoe, you want an upper that will allow your foot to breathe. Breathability not only keeps your feet more comfortable, but it will also help keep them dry and reduce the risk of blistering. Look for mesh uppers without a ton of plastic overlays.
- Responsive midsole: Responsiveness is the amount of energy returned to the body with each step. The more responsive a shoe is, generally the easier it is to run in, and the springier it feels. This is great on a treadmill as it helps to propel you forward and help reduce fatigue especially if you do not change elevation.
The Best Treadmill Sneakers for Different Foot Types and Conditions
- Treadmill shoes for flat feet: “Shoes that offer stability and support to prevent overpronation (when your feet roll inward) are best,” says Dr. Fuchs. “They should have a firm midsole, a supportive arch, and a structured heel. The shoes should also have good shock absorption to reduce the impact on your feet and knees.”
- Treadmill shoes for wide feet: “Look for shoes that come in wide sizes or have a wide toe box. They should provide enough room for your toes to move freely without feeling cramped. The shoes should also have a flexible upper material that can accommodate the width of your feet,” says Dr. Fuchs.
- Treadmill running shoes for high arches: You can always add a running insole for bolstered arch support in any shoe, however, Dr. Fuchs recommends seeking out shoes that offer cushioning to absorb shock, and styles with a curved last to accommodate the shape of your foot.
- Treadmill running shoes for plantar fasciitis: “Shoes that offer good arch support and cushioning will reduce pressure on the plantar fascia,” explains Dr. Fuchs. “They should also have a deep heel cup to help stabilize the foot and a firm heel counter for support.” The presence of a forefoot rocker is also useful for helping you to roll through the foot and prevent excessive flex in the arch.
- Treadmill running shoes for bunions: “Look for shoes with a wide toe box to accommodate the bunion and prevent pressure on it. The shoes should also have a soft upper material to reduce irritation and a seamless interior to prevent rubbing against the bunion.” It can also be helpful to opt for a more supportive shoe as proper alignment can also prevent excessive pressure from being placed on a bunion.
How We Chose the Best Treadmill Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To choose the 10 best treadmill running shoes of 2023, we gathered up a selection of shoes that would serve different budgets, needs, preferences, and common foot conditions. We reached out to experts in the field to get in-depth info on how to choose a treadmill running shoe and what exactly to look for. We also took into consideration reviews left by those that had purchased and worn these shoes. Finally, we looked to our own experience with years of testing and wearing running gear to create our list. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Kelly Whittaker is the Chief Curriculum Lead at Barry’s Bootcamp. She is also a 40 time marathoner, certified run coach, and maurten sponsored athlete.
Dr. Suzanne Fuchs is a board certified podiatrist and podiatric foot surgeon. She is also a health and fitness enthusiast and her career is focused on reconstructive foot surgery and sports medicine.
Meet the Author
Gabrielle Hondorp has worked as a fitness and wellness gear reviewer since 2019. She has written for publications like Runner’s World, Health, SELF, Women’s Running, Sports Illustrated and more. She was a collegiate track and cross country athlete and remains an avid outdoorswoman. Her firsthand experience as a runner informed this list of the best treadmill running shoes, many of which Hondorp has personally tested.
