Runners World, Part of the Hearst UK Wellbeing Network.
1
Best value
Brooks Revel 7
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Priced at just £75, the Revel 7 features a breathable knit upper, a comfortable fit, and moderate cushioning. Running shoes have gotten expensive, and this pair is one of our editors’ favourite affordable options.
Our testers liked the light and sleek knit material of the Revel 7, saying the shoes fit snuggly. They especially liked the lower height of the heel collar, the tongue and lacing system.
2
Max-cushioning
Brooks Ghost Max 2
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Preceded by the Ghost Max, the Ghost Max 2 is even plusher. The shoe has super supportive cushioning and is great for runners seeking a trainer with a rocker sole — a curved bottom that promotes a smooth roll from heel to toe, alleviating pressure on the forefoot and joints.
Testers said they liked wearing the shoe during long runs. The cushioning allows you to comfortably extend the duration of your runs without experiencing the usual fatigue or soreness that sometimes comes with running on harder surfaces.
Published: 22 August 2025
3
Best all-rounder
Brooks Ghost 16
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Designed for neutral roads and recommended by our editors as a great daily trainer, the Ghost 16 was released in the spring of last year. Brooks replaced the Ghost’s DNA Loft v2 midsole with the Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 in this iteration.
‘I felt like I was nestled down inside the cushioning and in control of the midsole’s stack height,’ said one tester. ‘I could compare it closely to the Saucony Triumph, but the Ghost 16 feels less stiff.’
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The Glycerin 21 is for runners who like the Ghost 16, but need a plusher and more supportive trainer. The shoe is updated with DNA Loft v3, making it even softer than its predecessor the Glycerin 20.‘For logging lots of miles, these shoes are excellent,’ said one tester. ‘Based on the substantial foamy soles, I expected these to feel too squishy, but they ride smooth.’
Published: 22 August 2025
Published: 22 August 2025
Published: 22 August 2025