What Running Shoes Should I Buy? Take the Quiz!
Ready to find out which running shoe is best for me? Jump in!
This quiz helps you answer "what running shoes should I buy" by matching your foot type, gait, and goals to the right pair. In a few quick questions, you'll get a clear shortlist - cushion, stability, or minimalist - plus fit tips so you can run in comfort. Want more ways to compare? See more shoe ideas or try our shoe finder.
When you run, how does your foot contact the ground?
How many miles do you typically run per week?
What terrain do you run on most often?
How important is shoe weight to you?
What pace do you usually run at?
Do you experience any recurring aches or injuries when running?
How flexible are your ankles and calves during a run?
How much ground feel do you prefer under your feet?
What's your main running goal right now?
Which type of midsole feels best to you?
How do you prefer your running shoes to fit?
What winter running surface do you encounter most?
How aware are you of your pronation when running?
What's your go-to post-run recovery method?
Which feature matters most to you in your next pair?
Motion Control Shoes
You experience pronounced overpronation or need maximum support to prevent inward rolling. Motion control shoes have a rigid midsole, dual-density foam, and reinforced heel cup for ultimate stability. You'll benefit from structured guidance through the gait cycle and reduced injury risk. These shoes are ideal if you've faced pronation-related issues in the past.
Cushioned Shoes
You prioritize comfort and maximal shock absorption in each run. Cushioned shoes feature soft, responsive foam and a generous heel stack to protect your joints on easy days. You'll appreciate a plush ride that turns every mile into a recovery session. These shoes are perfect for low-mileage runners or those who want a soft landing.
Trail Running Shoes
You tackle uneven, natural terrain and need extra traction and protection. Trail running shoes come with aggressive lugs, rock plates, and reinforced uppers to shield your feet from roots and stones. You'll enjoy grip and security on technical trails or gravel paths. These shoes make every outdoor adventure safer and more comfortable.
Stability Shoes
You show mild to moderate overpronation or run on mixed surfaces. Stability shoes offer supportive foam under the arch and a firmer midsole to guide your foot through each stride. You'll enjoy balanced cushioning plus extra structure that reduces inward roll. These shoes help maintain proper alignment and protect against common running aches.
Neutral Lightweight Shoes
You have a natural foot strike and prefer minimal interference. Neutral lightweight shoes provide a balanced, nimble platform so you can feel the road underfoot. You'll gain responsiveness and efficiency in tempo runs or speed workouts. These shoes suit runners with healthy biomechanics seeking a fast, unencumbered ride.
Profiles
- The Cushioned Cruiser -
You've got high arches and a neutral stride, making plush midsoles your best friend. This outcome from our what running shoes should i buy quiz recommends shoes with maximum cushioning and shock absorption - think New Balance Fresh Foam or Hoka Bondi. Quick tip: prioritize responsive foam for long, easy miles and injury prevention.
- The Stability Star -
Your overpronation calls for structured support and a guided ride. As revealed by the which running shoe is best for me quiz, look for dual-density midsoles and firm heel counters - ideal picks include ASICS GT-2000 or Brooks Adrenaline GTS. Pro tip: lace up snugly around the midfoot to lock in stability.
- The Lightweight Sprinter -
Speed is your game and every ounce counts. In our what kind of running shoes do i need quiz, you scored for minimal stack height and low drop designs, so racing flats like Nike Zoom Fly or New Balance FuelCell Rebel are perfect. Tip: use them for track sessions and tempo runs to unleash your fastest strides.
- The Trailblazer -
You thrive off-road with rugged terrain underfoot. From this best running shoes for me quiz, mud-gripping lugs, rock plates, and extra toe protection top your list - consider Salomon Speedcross or Saucony Peregrine. Quick advice: pair with moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry on wild adventures.
- The Minimalist Mover -
Less is more for you: low drop, flexible soles, and a barefoot feel. According to the new balance shoe quiz segment, try models like New Balance Minimus or Merrell Vapor Glove. Pro suggestion: build up mileage gradually to strengthen your feet and calves.
