'I Have 49 Pairs Of Running Shoes In My Closet—These Are The Best Ones.'

There are currently 49 pairs of sneakers in my closet (yes, 49). I don’t say that to brag, but rather to reassure you that I know what I’m talking about. Because when it comes to running, a truly no-frills sport, there’s only one piece of gear that really matters: your running shoes. And I’ve tested plenty of them.

Best Women’s Running Shoes For 2020

Best For PronatorsEdgebounce Adidasamazon.comSHOP NOW

Best For Everyday RunsZante Pursuit V1New Balanceamazon.com$76.97SHOP NOW

Most ComfortableEpic React Flyknit 2 Nikeamazon.com$174.66SHOP NOW

Most SupportiveDynaflyte 3 Asicsamazon.com$72.99SHOP NOW

This year, shoes got faster, lighter, and more comfortable than ever. Whether you’re looking for something with extra support and cushion for long runs, shock absorption for speed days, durability for muddy trail runs, or just a solid running shoe that’s also cute, I’ve got you covered with this list of the best running shoes for women in 2020.

But before getting into the list, it’s important to know that, when it comes to running shoes, there are a few factors to consider. Other than overall size range, one of the biggest distinctions between women’s running shoes and men’s running shoes is that the midsoles of the former tend to be lighter to account for the fact that women in general weigh less than men and have less muscle mass. Thus, sneakers designed for female runners tend to have softer midsoles than those designed for male runners in order to account for the lower degree of impact women’s running shoes typically need to absorb compared to men’s.

Similarly, unlike, say your biceps or quads, women’s and men’s feet are physiologically different. Female feet tend to be wider across the forefoot but narrower and higher overall, according to research that looked at the feet of 59 female and 39 males.

Something else that’s often wider on women than men? Hips, generally speaking. Because of this, women are more likely than men to pronate (or roll their feet inward after landing on the outside edges of their running shoes). To account and help correct for this, it’s common for the soles of women’s running shoes to be designed with more supportive materials.

Okay now, on to the fun stuff, i.e. shoes themselves. Aside from personally testing the sneakers below to ensure that these are, in fact, 10 of the best pairs of women’s running shoes on the market right now, the editorial team at Women’s Health has also incorporated market research, customer review feedback, and intel from product developers and designers into the mix as well. This is all to say that, if you’re looking for a new pair of running shoes, your feet couldn’t be in better hands.

Best For Pronators: Adidas EdgeBounce

Edgebounceadidasamazon.comSHOP NOW

The EdgeBounce is designed specifically for women, who tend to pronate more because of their wider hips. A wider forefoot and heel platform provide more stability. A springy midsole and a comfortable, stretch-mesh upper makes it a great shoe for mid-distance races.

Best For Everyday Runs: New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Pursuit V1

Zante Pursuit V1 Fresh Foam Running ShoeNew Balanceamazon.com$109.95$76.97 (30% off)SHOP NOW

A fast, low-profile pick that doesn’t skimp on comfort (hello, bootie construction around the ankle!) and is clutch for everyday runs. It’s sleek and lightweight enough to keep you moving fast, but the midsole foam still offers plenty of cushion as you hit the ground.

Most Comfortable: Nike Epic React

Running Shoe (8.5, White/Pink/Black)Nikeamazon.com$174.66SHOP NOW

This is Nike’s first running shoe to feature a proprietary foam, called Nike React, and the bouncy return keeps your feet feeling good mile after mile. It’s light for a foam shoe, and the sole is cushiony without being too soft, so you’ll feel protected but still springy while on the run.

Most Supportive: Asics DynaFlyte 3

CourtesyDynaflyte 3 Running ShoeASICSamazon.com$72.99Shop Now

Asics is typically known for its heavier, more supportive shoes, but the DynaFlyte 3 is super lightweight—in fact, the foam is 55-percent lighter than the industry standard. But it doesn’t skimp on the support the brand is known for, thanks to a re-designed stretchy mesh upper and gel cushioning in the back of the shoe that absorbs shock and helps you keep your stride on point.

Best For Speed: Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo

Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2Nikenike.com$106.97SHOP NOW

Pro runner Shalane Flanagan races in the Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4 percent—but runners who aren’t chasing records will love the more accessible Pegasus Turbo. The shoe uses the same comfy ZoomX foam technology in the midsole as the Vaporfly. It also has a light mesh upper that’s breathable but super-supportive, along with an aerodynamically shaped heel that’s built to boost your speed. Plus, the rubber sole features technology that will absorb the impact, no matter how fast you’re racing down the road.

Best For Stability: Asics Gel-Nimbus 21

Gel-Nimbus 21Asicsamazon.com$154.95SHOP NOW

This classic Asics shoe has been upgraded with a roomier toe box and even more bounce—two of the big tweaks making us want to rack up marathon miles in ’em. You’ll still get the gel cushioning you expect from Asics, as well as Guidance Trusstic System Technology, which helps improve gait efficiency. And that makes a big difference over long runs.

Best For Long Distance: Saucony Ride ISO

Ride ISOSauconyamazon.com$120.00SHOP NOW

Saucony’s latest manages to be both lightweight and incredibly cushy, with layers of foam in the topsole for major propulsion and energy return—especially great for maintaining race pace during endurance events. Another bonus: The ISOfit lacing system, which allows you to control exactly how tight you want your laces against the top of your foot—something every runner is VERY particular about.

Best For Gait Correction: Brooks Bedlam

CourtesyBedlamBrooksamazon.com$149.95Shop Now

The Bedlam is Brooks’ first shoe to feature its new midsole technology, DNA LOFT. It’s a similar feel to the DNA AMP found in the brand’s Levitate 2 sneaker, but it uses a mix of EVA foam, rubber, and air for a ride that’s a little softer and more protective. It also features Brooks’ GuideRails technology, which directs your feet into proper alignment, making for a more efficient run and helping to prevent injuries.

Best Deal: Asics GT Xpress

GT-XpressAsicsamazon.com$89.99SHOP NOW

The GT Xpress is a bargain for how many miles they’ll last you. The long-distance trainer has plenty of cushion and support, with gel in the sole to absorb shock as you pound the pavement. The upper is breathable and long-lasting, and the rubber outsole is super durable, too.

Best for Recovery Runs: Hoka One One Clifton 5

Clifton 5Hoka One One amazon.com$199.95Shop Now

Hoka’s made its name on shoes that promise plenty of cushion. But the latest iteration of the Clifton delivers major support without adding a ton of weight. That curved sole keeps your stride smooth, and the redesigned upper keeps your foot snug and centered.

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