Best Cushioned Running Shoes: Finding the Perfect Cushioned Running Shoes for You
No one wants to experience pain or discomfort when they run, which is where this list of the best cushioned running shoes can help, as it will help you find the right cushioned running shoes for you.
This list of the best cushioned running shoes will spotlight the top options for those who want a quality cushioned running shoe. So, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned runner, read on to learn more about choosing the right option for you.
When you finish with this list of the best cushioned running shoes, make sure you check out our lists of the best headphones for running, best running glasses, and the best running watches. All of these lists will pair well with this one and will help you be more prepared for your next run.
Top 10 Cushioned Running Shoes:
1. Hoka Bondi 7 Running Shoes
Price: $159.99 – $248.85
Highlights: Extremely soft compared to other shoes, a redesigned rubber outsole, and no loss of support for over 100 miles.
About Running Shoes: The Hoka Bondi 7 Running Shoes provide maximum cushioning for the most comfortable fit and experience. The Bondi 7 is extremely soft compared with most other running shoes, providing optimal support and comfort to your feet. With a redesigned rubber outsole, it reduces weight while increasing durability as well.
2. Brooks Glycerin 20 Running Shoes
Price: $159.95
Highlights: New DNA LOFT v3 foam technology, a nitrogen infused formula, and a supremely stable yet soft feel.
About Running Shoes: With their new DNA LOFT v3 foam technology, you get the ultimate in cushioning with every step. Plus, with its nitrogen-infused formula, your feet get a plush bed of material that even gives back some bounce to keep you energized throughout your run.
With these shoes, you don’t have to sacrifice premium cushioning for stability- you can have it all. The stability option of the Glycerin GTS 20 works through Brooks’ GTS technology within the DNA Loft foam to provide a supremely stable yet soft feel with every stride.
3. Hoka Mach 4 Running Shoes
Price: $127.39 – $185.99
Highlights: A signature “cushy” feel, weighs in at a featherlight 7.85 oz, and an engineered fit that doesn’t stretch too much.
About Running Shoes: With innovative design and reliable performance, the Mach 4 is top-of-the-line when it comes to cushioning and comfort, making it ideal for any runner looking to hit the pavement—or trails.
The Mach 4 features our signature “cushy” feel while still offering exceptional stability and responsiveness. But what makes it truly special is how lightweight yet locked-in this shoe feels on your foot. Weighing in at a featherlight 7.85 oz., you won’t even notice that you have something strapped to your feet.
The engineered fit won’t stretch too much, so no matter what terrain you come across, you can count on reliable performance without feeling bogged down.
4. Nike Zoom Fly 4 Running Shoes
Price: $82.56 – $122.69
Highlights: React foam-carbon plate-React foam sandwich, a significantly cushioned heel, and keeps your feet snug during sprints and variable terrain.
About Running Shoes: Inimitably designed, the Zoom Fly 4 Running Shoes does not compromise on comfort or performance – whichever style you prefer running in. From the react foam-carbon plate-react foam sandwich to the significant cushioned heel, these running shoes provide a soft and responsive experience as you tackle any distance. You won’t be able to resist saying wows when you step on it – as if stepping on a mini trampoline.
5. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 Running Shoes
Price: $159.95
Highlights: A Pure-Gel layered into the heel, impact absorption, and an FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam added.
About Running Shoes: The Nimbus 25 is packed with incredibly soft cushion technology. The Pure-Gel layered into the heel absorbs impactology, enabling a smoother transition from your heel to toe. Not only this but ASICS’s FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam has been added in for an even softer and more propulsive experience.
With all this extra padding, these shoes won’t weigh you down. The lightweight mesh adds flexibility and breathability for a top-of-the-line feel. Meanwhile, a secure fit holds your foot in place due to a thin yet stretchy tongue that effortlessly wraps around your feet as if it were a second skin.
6. Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Running Shoes
Price: $94.51 – $128.96
Highlights: React foam cushioning, unbeatable support on all terrains, and uncompromised stability on even surfaces or downhill.
About Running Shoes: With the Nike Pegasus Trail 3, you won’t have to worry about your feet due to its best cushioned running shoe features. This latest iteration from the popular Pegasus line offers something special for runners.
The React foam cushioning allows for soft landings and unbeatable support on the gnarliest terrain imaginable. You can trust that you’ll be well taken care of with these shoes. Additionally, this unparalleled support does not compromise your stability – even on uneven surfaces or when crushing downhills.
7. Saucony Triumph 18 Running Shoes
Price: $80.00 – $135.40
Highlights: A high-energy return, lightweight PWRRUN+ midsole foam, and noteworthy cushioning in the forefront and heel areas.
About Running Shoes: These top cushioned running shoes offer an incredibly plush feel thanks to the high-energy return, lightweight PWRRUN+ midsole foam. With excellent cushioning in the forefoot and heel areas of this top running shoe, you can trust that each step you take is cushioned and won’t leave your feet feeling sore.
8. Karhu Synchron Running Shoes
Price: $160.00
Highlights: A plush AeroFoam Nova midsole, an updated model for soft landings and smooth transitions, and an H-shaped piece of composite material.
About Running Shoes: Choose luxury and comfort with the Karhu Synchron running shoe. With its plush AeroFoam Nova midsole, these shoes offer maximum cushioning to help you go further. The updated model delivers soft landings and smooth transitions, making them ideal for long-distance runs and recovery miles.
The Fulcrum technology, an H-shaped piece of composite material, helps transfer your energy from landing to takeoff while keeping every stride even. The Synchron offers effortless style to runners looking for a new go-to look.
9. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 Running Shoes
Price: $122.05 – $149.99
Highlights: A supportive and responsive ride, a sturdy but lightweight midsole made from Fresh Foam X, and laser-engraved for a lighter weight.
About Running Shoes: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 Running Shoes are here with your relief. These best-cushioned running shoes provide a supportive and responsive ride for runners of all speeds and skill levels.
This 10th iteration of the popular Fresh Foam collection features a sturdy but lightweight midsole made from Fresh Foam X, laser-engraved to shave off a full half-ounce from its predecessor. Plus, it’s made with a new molded mesh upper that stretches to accommodate even wide feet, leaving no runner behind.
10. Mizuno Wave Sky 6 Running Shoes
Price: $169.95
Highlights: A combination of Mizuno Enerzy and Mizuno Enerzy Core foam, balanced support, and unmatched cushioning and comfort.
About Running Shoes: With the combination of Mizuno Enerzy and Mizuno Enerzy Core foam, you’ll feel a soft, smooth ride that’s both bouncy and durable. You’ll experience balanced support while still having enough cushioning to power through your toughest runs.
The cushioning and comfort are unmatched in their class and will help you tackle any challenge. Whether it’s running on roads, trails, or paths, these shoes will provide all-day comfort as well as stability, responsiveness, impact protection, and energy return in every step you take.
Editor’s Picks for the Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Support and Comfort
With so many incredible options to choose from, our editors narrowed down a few standout models that offer superior cushioning, innovative materials, and all-day support.
Best Overall – Hoka Bondi 7 Running Shoes
The Bondi 7 remains one of the softest, most supportive running shoes on the market. With a redesigned outsole and thick midsole foam, it’s built to carry you through long miles without discomfort.
Best for Daily Training – Brooks Glycerin 20
Thanks to DNA LOFT v3 foam and nitrogen infusion, this shoe delivers plush comfort and smooth transitions. It’s the perfect cushioned companion for everyday runners who want soft landings without sacrificing energy return.
Best Lightweight Option – Hoka Mach 4
Runners looking for lightweight performance with that signature Hoka “cushy” feel will love the Mach 4. Featherlight and fast, it’s great for tempo runs or everyday wear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cushioned Running Shoes
What makes a running shoe “cushioned”?
Cushioned running shoes use advanced midsole foams—such as EVA, PWRRUN+, Fresh Foam, or DNA LOFT—to absorb impact and provide a soft, protective feel underfoot. This reduces strain on joints, especially during long-distance runs.
Are cushioned running shoes good for all runners?
Yes. While some runners prefer firmer shoes for speedwork or racing, cushioned shoes are great for beginners, distance runners, and anyone recovering from injury or looking for extra comfort on their runs.
Do cushioned running shoes reduce injury risk?
Cushioning can help minimize the shock absorbed by your knees, hips, and ankles. While no shoe can eliminate all injury risks, cushioned shoes are often recommended for runners with joint sensitivities or past injuries.
How long do cushioned running shoes last?
Most cushioned running shoes last between 300–500 miles, depending on your running surface, body weight, and running style. Premium models with durable midsoles like the Mizuno Wave Sky 6 or Karhu Synchron tend to last longer.
What’s the difference between neutral and stability cushioned shoes?
Neutral cushioned shoes provide balanced support for runners with a natural gait. Stability cushioned shoes, like the Brooks Glycerin GTS, offer added medial support to prevent overpronation while still delivering soft landings.
Tips for Choosing the Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Long-Distance Comfort
1. Know Your Arch and Gait Type
Understanding whether you have flat feet, high arches, or a neutral arch can help narrow your choices. Some cushioned shoes include stability features for overpronators, like the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 or Nike Pegasus Trail 3.
2. Match Cushioning to Your Running Goals
If you’re logging marathon-level miles or frequently training on hard pavement, maximum cushioning models like the Hoka Bondi 7 or Mizuno Wave Sky 6 are ideal. For everyday runs, you might prefer a slightly firmer yet still soft ride, like the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080.
3. Test Responsiveness vs. Softness
Not all cushioned shoes feel the same. Some provide a bouncy, responsive ride (Brooks Glycerin 20), while others are soft and plush with minimal feedback (Saucony Triumph 18). Decide if you want rebound or simply shock absorption.
4. Don’t Forget Weight and Breathability
Ultra-cushioned shoes can sometimes feel bulky. Look for models that offer lightweight construction and breathable uppers like the Hoka Mach 4 or ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 to avoid feeling bogged down.
5. Prioritize Fit and Foot Shape Compatibility
Cushioning won’t help if the shoe doesn’t fit well. Make sure the toe box is roomy enough and the heel counter provides security. Brands like New Balance offer wide sizing to accommodate more foot shapes.
Best Cushioned Running Shoes Conclusion
As a runner, it is important to find a shoe with the right amount of cushioning to protect your feet and joints from impact. With the right shoes, you can take on your running adventures with confidence and know that your body is better protected.
With this list above, you should be able to find the perfect option for you and also find a pair of top cushioned running shoes that fit your style as well. So happy running!
Is there a cushioned running shoe that you think should be on this list but isn’t? Please feel free to share it below if so.
