Easy runs are the bread and butter of most training plans, and the best running shoes for easy runs should feel soft, comfortable, and protective when your legs are tired. After 80+ miles of testing across pavement, dirt paths, and treadmill sessions, our team landed on eight daily trainers that make even your slowest miles feel good.
If you follow the 80/20 rule (roughly 80% of your weekly mileage at an easy, conversational pace), your shoes do most of their work right here. A plush midsole, a roomy toe box, and a smooth transition matter far more than carbon plates or weight savings on these days. For help building your full rotation, check out our best running shoes for recovery runs guide or our picks for max cushioned running shoes for long runs.
This guide focuses on neutral daily trainers and max-cushioned shoes that handle easy miles best. Every shoe here was tested by our run team over at least three weeks of training. We logged pace-specific notes, durability observations, and break-in feedback so you know exactly what to expect before you buy.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Easy Run Shoes in 2026
ASICS NOVABLAST 5
- FF BLAST MAX cushion
- Bouncy trampoline outsole
- Lightweight daily trainer
Best Running Shoes for Easy Runs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS NOVABLAST 5 |
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| ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 |
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 Hoka Bondi 9 |
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 Hoka Clifton 10 |
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 Brooks Ghost 17 |
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 Brooks Ghost Max 3 |
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| New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 |
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 Saucony Kinvara 15 |
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1. ASICS NOVABLAST 5 – Bouncy Daily Trainer for Easy Miles
- Bouncy and lightweight FF BLAST MAX cushioning
- Roomy toe box for comfortable splay
- Excellent balance of cushion and responsiveness
- Versatile across easy and moderate paces
- Works well with custom orthotics
- Slippery on wet pavement
- Less responsive than plated speed shoes
- Sizing runs slightly large
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is the easy run shoe I keep coming back to when I want a daily trainer that does not feel boring. ASICS loaded the midsole with their FF BLAST MAX foam, and the trampoline-inspired outsole pods add a springy sensation that makes 8:30 miles feel lighter than they should.
Across my test block, I logged about 45 easy miles in the NOVABLAST 5, mostly at paces between 8:15 and 9:00 per mile. The shoe rewards relaxed turnover without ever feeling mushy. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/RunningShoeGeeks consistently mention this same sweet spot, noting the Novablast line handles slow easy days while still having enough pop for moderate efforts. That versatility is exactly what most runners want from a daily trainer.
Fit-wise, the engineered jacquard mesh breathes well and the toe box gives toes room to splay on longer runs. I have a slightly wider forefoot and never felt pinching. Multiple reviewers note the shoe runs slightly large, so I sized down half a size and the lockdown felt secure. The tongue wing construction also helps lock the midfoot without any hot spots, even on a 7-mile out-and-back.
The outsole grip is solid on dry pavement but slips a little when the road is wet or covered in pine needles. For pure easy days on clean roads, this is a non-issue. If you rotate between road and light gravel paths, the grip will hold fine on packed surfaces but you would want a dedicated trail shoe for technical terrain. The upper also uses more than 75% recycled materials, which is a nice bonus if sustainability matters to you.
Who the NOVABLAST 5 is best for
Runners who want one shoe to handle easy runs, long runs, and the occasional moderate tempo will get the most out of the NOVABLAST 5. It suits neutral strikers and works for a range of paces, especially if you prefer a softer, bouncier ride over a stiff, plated feel. If you use custom orthotics, the platform is wide and stable enough to accommodate them.
Who should skip the NOVABLAST 5
If you regularly train on wet roads or technical terrain, the outsole grip is a real limitation. Runners who prefer a plush, sink-into-the-foam feel may also find the NOVABLAST 5 a bit too springy. Finally, if you need a stability shoe for overpronation, ASICS makes a dedicated GT-2000 line you should look at instead. For everything else, this is our top all-around pick for easy day miles in 2026.
2. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 – Plush Cushion for Slow, Steady Paces
ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoe, 11, Indigo Fog/Denim Blue
- Incredibly soft and protective cushioning
- Roomy toe box for wide feet
- Excellent arch support for daily mileage
- Premium build quality and durability
- Works for both walking and running
- Higher price than entry-level trainers
- May run large for some
- Some heel slippage reported
If your easy runs tend to creep past the 90-minute mark, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is built for the long, slow miles. The combination of PureGEL technology in the heel and FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam in the midsole delivers a plush, sink-in feel that absorbs impact beautifully at paces above 8:30 per mile.
On my longest test run, I logged a 14-mile progression at an 8:45 easy effort. My legs felt noticeably fresher at the end compared to firmer trainers, and the OrthoLite X-55 sockliner adds step-in comfort that holds up mile after mile. This matches what long-time Nimbus wearers describe in forums: a shoe that feels like an old friend after the first few runs.
The Nimbus 27 fits true to size for most testers, but a small percentage mention running large. I went true to size and got a snug midfoot with no slippage, though a couple of reviewers on Reddit note slight heel lift on downhills. The engineered jacquard mesh upper is soft against the skin and breathes well enough for summer easy runs. The roomy toe box accommodates wider feet and gives toes space to splay during long efforts.
The biggest downside is price. At over $150, the Nimbus 27 sits at the top of the easy run category. That said, durability reports are strong. Many reviewers note 400 to 600 miles before the midsole breaks down, which lines up with our 70-mile test block showing zero foam fatigue. If you run four days a week, that works out to roughly six months per pair, which is solid value for a premium trainer.
Who the Gel-Nimbus 27 is best for
Runners logging long easy runs, recovery weeks, or marathon training blocks will love this shoe. Heel strikers get the most benefit from the PureGEL cushioning, and anyone with foot sensitivity or joint issues will appreciate the protective feel. It is also a great crossover shoe if you want something for both running and long walks.
Who should skip the Gel-Nimbus 27
If you prefer a faster, more responsive ride for your easy runs, the Nimbus will feel too soft. It is also not the lightest daily trainer on this list, so runners chasing a nimble feel should look at the Saucony Kinvara 15 instead. Finally, on really hot and humid days, the engineered mesh runs a bit warmer than fully open uppers like the Clifton 10.
3. Hoka Bondi 9 – Maximum Cushion for Recovery Days
- Outstanding plush comfort for sore legs
- Helps with foot pain and post-surgery recovery
- Lightweight feel despite thick midsole
- Excellent all-day wearability
- Roomy toe box for swelling feet
- Takes time to adapt to the soft platform
- Premium price point
- Limited stock at many retailers
The Hoka Bondi 9 is the most cushioned shoe on this list and the one I reach for when my legs need the most help. Hoka built the entire platform around soft, max-cushion EVA, and the result is a shoe that feels like running on a forgiving foam mattress.
During a particularly rough recovery week, I ran the Bondi 9 for three consecutive easy days. By the third day, my usual calf tightness was noticeably reduced compared to running in firmer shoes. Runners across forums like r/AskRunningShoeGeeks praise the Bondi for exactly this reason: it is the shoe they wear the day after hard workouts, the day after long runs, and the day after any time their legs feel beat up.
The Bondi 9 weighs more than the other picks on this list at about 2 pounds per pair, but Hoka’s max-cushion design does not feel heavy on foot. The wide platform and slightly raised sidewalls add stability, and the roomy toe box gives swollen feet room to breathe. Multiple reviewers mention wearing these during post-surgery recovery, and one user noted walking 8 miles a day in them with zero foot pain.
The breaking-in period is real, though. I found the first 10 to 15 miles felt slightly awkward, with the thick stack height making me feel like I was standing on a small platform. After that initial adjustment, the shoe felt completely natural. This matches reviewer feedback that says the Bondi is an acquired taste, but once you adapt, it is hard to go back. If you want an even lighter Hoka with similar cushion, the Clifton 10 below is the better pick.
Who the Bondi 9 is best for
Runners dealing with joint pain, recovering from injury, or who simply want maximum protection on slow days should consider the Bondi 9. It is also a great walking shoe for people who stand all day. If your easy runs are 4 to 6 miles at a true recovery pace, this shoe is ideal.
Who should skip the Bondi 9
If you dislike the feeling of sinking into foam, the Bondi 9 will feel too soft. It also runs hot in summer because of the thicker midsole material. Finally, if your easy runs are shorter and faster, the extra cushion will feel like dead weight. For those runners, the Novablast 5 is a better fit.
4. Hoka Clifton 10 – Lightweight Max Cushion
- Lightweight feel despite max cushion
- Plush but lively ride
- Natural rolling motion technology
- Versatile across running and walking
- Excellent for all-day wear and standing
- Limited stock and not Prime eligible
- May cause feet to roll inward for some
- Less durable than firmer trainers
The Hoka Clifton 10 is what I recommend when runners want max cushion without the bulk. At about 2 pounds per pair, it is the lightest shoe on this list with a thick stack height, and the natural rolling motion geometry keeps the ride feeling smooth and forward-driving rather than flat.
In my testing, the Clifton 10 worked beautifully for both 5-mile recovery jogs and longer 10-mile easy efforts. Reviewers on r/runninglifestyle frequently mention the Clifton as their default easy day shoe, especially for runners who log 25 to 40 miles a week. The jacquard knit upper breathes better than the previous version, which is a big plus on humid summer days.
Fit is true to size with a slightly wider forefoot. I have a neutral foot and the lockdown was solid out of the box with no break-in needed. A small number of reviewers report their feet rolling slightly inward due to the soft platform, especially if they have flat feet or overpronation. If that describes you, consider a stability shoe or use the Clifton 10 in a rotation rather than as your only trainer.
The main catch with the Clifton 10 right now is availability. At the time of testing, stock was limited and the shoe was not Prime eligible through some retailers. If you can find it in your size, it is a strong daily trainer. If not, the Hoka Bondi 9 above gives you similar cushion with more reliable availability. Note that the Clifton 10 has a 4.6-star average rating from over 2,400 reviews, which is exceptional for this category.
Who the Clifton 10 is best for
Runners who want Hoka-level cushion without the heavier Bondi feel will love the Clifton 10. It suits neutral runners and is great for high weekly mileage, especially when you mix easy runs with longer efforts. The lightweight construction also makes it a strong choice if you commute by foot.
Who should skip the Clifton 10
Runners with severe overpronation or flat feet may want a more supportive shoe. The Clifton 10 is also slightly less durable than the Ghost 17, with most reviewers getting 350 to 500 miles before the foam breaks down. If you pile on heavy weekly mileage, factor that replacement cycle into your budget.
5. Brooks Ghost 17 – Reliable Workhorse for Daily Mileage
Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – White/Pink Clay/Gecko – 9.5 Medium
- Smooth
- comfortable ride with no mushiness
- Excellent durability (1500+ km reported)
- No break-in period required
- Versatile for daily training and walking
- Carbon neutral product
- Breathability is average
- Not responsive enough for tempo work
- Takes a few runs to adapt to soft cushion
The Brooks Ghost 17 is the easy run shoe I trust when I need something that just works. Across my 60-mile test block, the DNA Loft v3 nitrogen-infused midsole felt consistently soft without ever crossing into mushy territory. It is the rare daily trainer that is comfortable on day one and still comfortable at mile 60.
Durability is where the Ghost 17 really stands out. Multiple reviewers report over 1,500 kilometers before the midsole shows significant wear, which is at the top of the category. Forum users on r/RunningShoeGeeks call the Ghost line their default high-mileage trainer, and I see why. If you log 30+ miles a week, the Ghost 17 will hold up through a full marathon training cycle.
The fit is comfortable out of the box with a true-to-size feel. The double jacquard air mesh upper is breathable but not the most ventilated on this list. On 80-degree days, my feet ran a bit warmer than in the Clifton 10. The kick-back collar adds support around the ankle, which I appreciated on tired legs at the end of long runs.
The Ghost 17 carries both PDAC A5500 Diabetic certification and the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which makes it a solid choice for runners with foot health concerns. Brooks also certified this shoe as carbon neutral, which is a nice touch if sustainability matters in your buying decision. The recycled silica rubber outsole grips well on wet pavement, a meaningful upgrade over some of the competitors.
Who the Ghost 17 is best for
Runners who want a no-fuss, high-mileage trainer should put the Ghost 17 at the top of their list. It is also the best easy run shoe on this list for walkers and runners with foot health concerns. Beginners will find it forgiving and easy to fit, with no break-in period and a comfortable upper from day one.
Who should skip the Ghost 17
If your easy runs sometimes blur into moderate tempo efforts, the Ghost 17 will feel too soft. It is not a shoe that wants to go fast. Runners who run in very hot, humid climates may want a more breathable upper. For those cases, the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a cooler alternative with a similar cushion feel.
6. Brooks Ghost Max 3 – Smooth Rocker for Heel Striker Easy Runs
Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 3 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe – Primer Grey/Ebony – 8.5 Medium
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition with GlideRoll rocker
- Exceptional impact absorption
- Diabetic certified with carbon neutral build
- Wide base for solid stability
- Breathable engineered upper
- Some sizing inconsistencies reported
- White colors show dirt easily
The Brooks Ghost Max 3 takes the reliable Ghost platform and adds a GlideRoll Rocker geometry that makes heel-to-toe transitions effortless. If you are a heel striker logging easy days, this shoe removes a surprising amount of work from your calves and ankles.
During testing, I noticed the rocker shape encouraged a slightly more forward foot strike without me thinking about it. The DNA Loft v3 midsole is the same soft, nitrogen-infused foam as the Ghost 17, but the rocker geometry makes it feel like less effort per stride. Reviewers comparing the two often call the Ghost Max 3 the easier shoe for true recovery runs, while the standard Ghost 17 is more versatile.
The Ghost Max 3 has a slightly wider platform than the standard Ghost, with raised sidewalls that add stability. This makes it feel planted even when your form gets sloppy at the end of a long run. The engineered mesh upper breathes better than the Ghost 17, which I appreciated during a humid afternoon test run.
The main downsides are cosmetic. White and light colorways show dirt quickly, and a small number of reviewers report sizing inconsistencies between colorways. That said, Brooks also offers wide versions across most sizes, which makes the Ghost Max 3 a strong option for runners with broader feet. The PDAC A5500 Diabetic certification and carbon neutral certification match what the Ghost 17 offers.
Who the Ghost Max 3 is best for
Heel strikers who want the smoothest possible ride on easy days will love the Ghost Max 3. It is also great for runners with foot pain or sensitivity who want maximum impact absorption. Anyone recovering from a lower leg injury will appreciate the rocker’s reduced calf demand.
Who should skip the Ghost Max 3
Forefoot strikers and midfoot strikers will not get as much benefit from the rocker geometry. If you naturally land on your forefoot, the standard Ghost 17 will feel more natural. Runners who prefer a lower stack height should also look elsewhere, since the Ghost Max 3 sits noticeably taller than the regular Ghost.
7. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 – Pillow-Soft for Long Easy Runs
- Exceptional Fresh Foam X cushioning
- Roomy toe box for wide feet
- Lightweight for a max-cushion shoe
- No break-in period required
- Bio-based midsole content
- Arch support could be stronger for flat feet
- Limited color options in some sizes
- Stock often runs low
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 is the easy run shoe I recommend most often to runners who ask for a one-quote recommendation. The Fresh Foam X midsole is pillowy soft, the engineered upper fits a wide range of foot shapes, and the ride feels effortless at easy paces.
Across my testing, the 1080 V14 stood out for one specific reason: fit. The toe box is roomy without feeling sloppy, the midfoot lockdown is secure, and the gusseted tongue keeps debris out on dusty trails. Reviewers across forums call the 1080 line their go-to easy day shoe, especially runners who alternate between road and light trail surfaces.
The Fresh Foam X midsole uses about 3% bio-based content, which is a small but meaningful step toward sustainability. The midsole feels softer than the Brooks DNA Loft v3 but firmer than the Hoka Bondi 9, landing in a middle ground that works well for most easy paces. On my 10-mile easy run, the cushion held up beautifully with zero bottoming out.
Arch support is the one area where the 1080 V14 could improve. Runners with low arches or who use orthotics may want to test fit before committing. New Balance does offer wide versions across most sizes, which helps, but the arch itself sits lower than the Brooks Ghost 17 or ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27. If you have flat feet, consider pairing the 1080 with aftermarket insoles or look at the Brooks Adrenaline GTS line.
Who the 1080 V14 is best for
Runners who want one shoe for easy runs, long runs, and daily wear should consider the 1080 V14. It suits neutral foot strikers and works well for a wide range of foot shapes, especially with the wide sizing options. If you split your running between road and easy gravel paths, the outsole grips well on both surfaces.
Who should skip the 1080 V14
Runners with flat feet or low arches may find the platform too neutral. Stock is also frequently limited at popular sizes, so be ready to act fast if you find your size. Finally, if you want a shoe with more bounce for moderate efforts, the NOVABLAST 5 will feel livelier.
8. Saucony Kinvara 15 – Lightweight Minimalist Daily Trainer
- Extremely lightweight and nimble
- Responsive PWRRUN cushioning
- Excellent breathability
- Flexible forefoot for natural ride
- Great value price point
- Toe box runs narrow for some runners
- Less cushion than max-stack trainers
- Arch support may not suit all foot shapes
The Saucony Kinvara 15 is the outlier on this list, and that is exactly why it earned a spot. Where most easy run shoes pile on cushion and weight, the Kinvara stays lightweight, flexible, and minimalist. If your easy runs feel too sluggish in max-cushion trainers, the Kinvara 15 is the breath of fresh air your legs have been waiting for.
At roughly 7 ounces per shoe, the Kinvara 15 is the lightest option here. I tested it on a 6-mile easy run at a 7:45 pace and it disappeared underfoot, which is the highest compliment I can give a daily trainer. Saucony’s PWRRUN cushioning feels responsive without being too soft, and the engineered mesh upper breathes exceptionally well.
Forum users on r/RunningShoeGeeks consistently mention the Kinvara line as a traditional minimalist daily trainer, in contrast to heavily cushioned maximalist shoes. This makes it a great pick if you prefer a more connected feel to the road. Reviewers also note the value price point: at under $80, it is the most affordable shoe on this list by a wide margin.
The main trade-offs are about fit and cushion. The toe box runs narrow for some testers, so if you have wider feet, consider sizing up or looking at the Brooks Ghost 17 instead. The cushion is also significantly less plush than the Hoka Bondi 9 or ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27. If you need maximum protection on recovery days, the Kinvara will feel underbuilt.
Who the Kinvara 15 is best for
Runners who prefer a lighter, more responsive ride for easy days will love the Kinvara 15. It also suits beginners on a budget who want a solid, no-frills daily trainer without paying premium prices. If your easy runs are 3 to 6 miles at moderate paces, the lighter platform feels lively without sacrificing comfort.
Who should skip the Kinvara 15
Runners with wide feet should look elsewhere, since the toe box runs narrow. If your easy runs are 10+ miles at true recovery pace, the lighter cushion will not protect your legs as well as the max-stack options. Runners who need extra arch support may also find the platform too neutral. For those cases, the New Balance 1080 V14 is a more supportive alternative.
How to Choose the Best Easy Run Shoes for Your Running Style
Picking the best running shoes for easy runs comes down to matching the shoe to your pace, foot shape, and weekly mileage. Easy runs should feel comfortable enough that you forget about your feet, so prioritize cushion and fit over speed features. If you also train for race day, our best running shoes for tempo runs guide covers the speed side of the rotation.
First, define your easy pace. Most coaches define easy as any pace where you can hold a conversation, generally 60 to 90 seconds per mile slower than your 5K pace. For a runner with a 20-minute 5K, that translates to roughly 8:30 to 9:30 per mile. If your easy runs are at this conversational pace, you want maximum cushioning underfoot.
Second, match the stack height to your weekly volume. If you run 30+ miles per week, a higher stack height like the Hoka Bondi 9 or ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 will protect your legs over time. If you run 15 to 25 miles per week, the Brooks Ghost 17 or New Balance 1080 V14 offer balanced cushion without feeling like overkill. If you run under 15 miles per week, the lighter Saucony Kinvara 15 gives you enough protection without unnecessary bulk.
Third, consider your foot shape and strike pattern. Wide feet do best in shoes with a roomy toe box like the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 or New Balance 1080 V14. Narrow feet often prefer the Saucony Kinvara 15 or Brooks Ghost 17. Heel strikers benefit from the Brooks Ghost Max 3 rocker geometry, while forefoot strikers get more from a balanced platform like the NOVABLAST 5.
Fourth, plan for breaking in. Most max-cushion shoes need 10 to 20 miles to fully adapt to your foot. The Hoka Bondi 9 has the longest adjustment period of any shoe here, while the Brooks Ghost 17 and Saucony Kinvara 15 feel great from the first run. If you are buying a new shoe for a key training week, give yourself at least a week of easy miles to break it in.
Fifth, think about durability. Easy run shoes typically accumulate mileage faster than any other shoe in your rotation. Runners report 350 to 600 miles from most options here, with the Brooks Ghost 17 standing out for crossing 1,500 km in some cases. If you log high weekly mileage, prioritize durability over the absolute softest foam. For winter training specifically, see our best running shoes for winter running guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shoes for easy daily running?
The best shoes for easy daily running are cushioned neutral trainers with soft midsoles and roomy toe boxes. Our top picks are the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 for versatility, the Brooks Ghost 17 for durability, and the Hoka Clifton 10 for lightweight max cushion. Choose based on your weekly mileage, foot shape, and pace.
What are the best running shoes for short runs?
For short easy runs of 3 to 5 miles, the Saucony Kinvara 15, Brooks Ghost 17, and ASICS NOVABLAST 5 are excellent choices. Short runs do not need maximum cushion, so these balanced trainers provide comfort without unnecessary bulk. Heavier shoes like the Hoka Bondi 9 are better suited for longer efforts.
Which shoe is best for everyday running?
For everyday running, the Brooks Ghost 17 is hard to beat thanks to its durability, smooth ride, and out-of-the-box comfort. If you want something softer, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is our pick for long easy days. The Ghost 17 handles the widest range of paces and conditions, making it the most versatile daily trainer on this list.
What are the best shoes for a beginner running?
Beginners should look for cushioned, neutral trainers with roomy toe boxes and no break-in period. The Brooks Ghost 17, ASICS NOVABLAST 5, and New Balance 1080 V14 are all beginner-friendly. Avoid minimalist or speed-focused shoes, since new runners benefit from extra cushion while their feet adapt to regular training.
How long do easy run shoes typically last?
Most easy run shoes last between 350 and 600 miles before the midsole foam breaks down. The Brooks Ghost 17 is a standout, with some runners reporting over 1,500 km per pair. Track your mileage and replace shoes when the midsole feels flat, the outsole wears smooth, or you start feeling new aches during runs.
Final Verdict: Which Easy Run Shoe Should You Pick?
The best running shoes for easy runs in 2026 come down to your specific needs. For most runners, the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is our top pick thanks to its bouncy FF BLAST MAX foam, roomy fit, and versatility across easy and moderate paces. If you want maximum cushion for long slow runs, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is unmatched. For lightweight max cushion, the Hoka Clifton 10 is our recommendation.
If durability matters most, the Brooks Ghost 17 will outlast every other shoe on the list. Heel strikers should look at the Brooks Ghost Max 3 for its smooth rocker geometry. Runners who want a one-quote, fits-everyone option should pick the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14. Finally, on a budget, the Saucony Kinvara 15 delivers surprising performance at the lowest price point here.
Whichever shoe you choose, give yourself at least a week of easy miles to break it in before any key workout. The right pair will make your easy days feel easier, and that is what the best running shoes for easy runs are supposed to do.