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Best men's running trainers GOAL / various

The best men’s running trainers of 2023 for all terrains

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On the lookout for the perfect pair of running trainers? There's a style for everyone, no matter if you're a professional runner or someone looking to take their first steps pounding the pavements outdoors.

Whether you're a fan of clocking up miles on the treadmill or an all-weather terrain kind of runner, the perfect running shoes to suit your needs are out there. There's no need to sacrifice style for substance, some of these will look as good on a day out as they will in the gym.

But with so many options available, how do you know which is the right choice for you? We've put together a round-up of the best men's running trainers you can get on the market today, depending on what you want out of your routine.

Our top three:

Best overall running trainers: Nike Pegasus FlyEase

Best budget running trainers: adidas Supernova+

Best running trainers for trail terrains: asics Gel-Venture 8

FAQs:

Why do I need a pair of running trainers?

Whether you're taking it indoors or outdoors, you want to ensure that you're in the best possible condition to get the most out of any run - starting at the bottom with your feet.

You could attempt to do your workout in ordinary shoes or even a different type of trainer, but you're likely to underperform when it comes to delivering results. Running trainers are designed with one function above all - to help the wearer get the most out of any routine where they are pounding the proverbial pavement. That alone is why you'll want a good pair of running trainers, even before getting into the finer details.

What is the difference between different running trainers?

Running trainers are built for different terrain, much like football boots are elsewhere. While one pair will give greater function on a treadmill, another may deliver more over trail ground, and a third could provide superior power on asphalt. Those differences all come down to how you want to approach your run routine and where you'll be taking yourself on your fitness journey.

What is the best type of running trainer?

Plenty of individual facets and elements will help craft a superb running shoe. Still, typically the most significant benefits will be in the comfort, functionality and durability that a good pair of trainers can provide. The last thing you'll want is a trainer that will give you blisters, that's going to slip on uneasy surfaces, or that's going to fall apart at the seams at the first sign of a little bit of wear and tear. Running trainers are designed to withstand heavy-duty workouts, get the best of your body, and ensure minimal injury risk.

Check out the guide below, where you'll find a pair of trainers for every type of runner.

  • Best overall running trainers

    Put a spot of godlike pace into your steps with the Air Zoom Pegasus FlyEase - an absolute monster of a running trainer, bringing together top-of-the-line technology for an excellent experience.

    Its FlyEase system lets you slip them on and off without serious hassle. A wider forefront gives you space to breathe, and the traditional Pegasus responsiveness remains preserved in all its glory to get you to the top of your workout potential faster and harder.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has a FlyEasy strap for a secure fit

    • Extra padding on the tongue and collar

    • Flex grooves on the outsole give you a flexible fit

  • Best budget-friendly running trainers

    Who says you've got to break the bank to get some footwear that will match you with every step? The affordable Energen Lite does the job nicely as a sturdy running shoe option.

    It's a simple and effective number with a FuelFoam midsole, intended to provide long-lasting cushioning for full-day usage and a breathable mesh upper to help reduce sweat. It's great for newcomers and veterans alike, whether it's your first or five-hundredth run.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has a mesh upper for breathability
    • A FuelFoam outer will give you comfort all day long
    • Target overlays on the heel and toe give you extra support

  • Best running trainers for trail terrain

    Prefer to take your runs off the beaten track? The Gel-Venture 8 will do you nicely, bringing the support and stability you'll need when traversing uneven terrain on your runs and workouts.

    A GEL Tech-infused midsole provides additional reinforcement and cushioning against the blows of heavy footfalls and the jagged ground underfoot, while a lugged rubber outsole helps increase grip. Top it off with a padded ankle collar, and you've got one comfortable trainer.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has been updated for a more accommodating forefoot fit
    • The outsole is durable with an improved traction pattern
    • Asics have re-engineered the outsole lugs for better performance

  • Best running trainers for road surfaces

    The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 Ekiden may be a mouthful of a name, but it delivers on the road where it matters, with no shortage of dramatic style. A revamped mesh upper helps improve ventilation and comfort to keep you cool and collected.

    A full-length carbon fibre plate at the bottom of the shoe gives you a responsive feel that will keep you going on the road with every strike. Not only that, but this model comes in various colourways to run with style and personality.

    Reasons to buy

    • Ultra-responsive with a full-length carbon fibre outer plate
    • A mesh upper gives you comfort and breathability
    • Lightweight build to provide you with a speedy edge

  • Nike Wildhorse 7

    You may not find much difference between a pair of shoes set for trail terrain and those destined to tackle hills, but this Wildhorse 7 option from Nike will, at the very least, help you scale the climb.

    The high-abrasion rubber outsole is cut with jagged grips to help improve traction as you take a steady upwards stroll, and a reinforced foam midsole helps protect the undercarriage of your foot from additional strain. It's excellent for clocking up those inclines in an instant.

    Reasons to buy

    • Nike React foam gives you extra cushioning
    • Mesh keeps your feet ventilated and cool
    • A gaiter collar keeps dirt and debris out

  • Best running trainers for wet weather

    A slip and a slide will take you straight out of the zone and possibly onto something more than bed rest if you're not careful. This means having the shoes to deal with those rainy days is vital, which the Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX understands.

    The superior traction will keep you moving on those slick streets, but it's the GORE-TEX invisible fit upper that will help keep your toes cool and dry, completed with a flexible and lightweight design.

    Reasons to buy

    • GORE-TEX layer helps keep water out
    • Lightweight build
    • Traction in all directions

  • Best running trainers for propulsion

    Get the lift-off you need to ensure that you don't need to return to a standing start with the energy-efficient Zig Dynamica 3, which seeks to help replenish you as you move through the gears on your run.

    Its heel-to-toe return system helps improve the overall experience, complete with a traditional cushion and outsole design from Reebok. Its zig-zag design underfoot and outsole adds a splash of sleek fashion while returning energy to your stride and propelling you forward.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has an integrated FuelFoam midsole
    • A textile upper gives it a stylish look
    • A lightweight build and innovative sole give you a speedy start

  • Best running trainer with wow-factor

    If you're looking for a running trainer with something extra special about it, adidas and Stella McCartney have you covered. It's got comfort with a sock-like fit and style with a sleek white textile and rubber upper.

    You'll also be doing your bit for the environment as the trainers are partly made from recycled materials. What's for sure is that these shoes prove that you can run in comfort and style.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has a PRIMEKNIT upper, which adapts to the shape of your foot
    • Boost cushioning gives you unparalleled comfort
    • The upper is made from 50% recycled content