Running shoes are worth the investment for beginner joggers and seasoned sprinters alike. Not only will a quality pair offer much-needed support but they’re versatile for running errands and matching any athletic outfit you so choose.

The problem? There are hundreds online to choose from — some splurges and some affordable. The most important factor, however, is how comfortable they are (especially if you have flat feet) and their features, especially if you’re looking for a pair akin to hiking shoes.

Should you go with a pair from Hoka, New Balance or Brooks? The choices can feel endless and daunting. Fortunately, we’ve enlisted an expert to help us find the best one for you.

“Generally speaking, most sneakers are specialized for a specific sport, such as tennis or basketball,” Bruce Pinker, DPM, foot and ankle surgeon and board-certified podiatrist at Progressive Foot Care, told the New York Post. “Running shoes typically have a mesh material over the toe box to allow for an exchange of air which helps reduce excessive moisture in the foot; this helps reduce conditions of Athlete’s Foot fungus (tinea pedis) and toenail fungus, specifically.”

Ahead, the New York Post turned to board-certified podiatrists — much like we did in our expert-backed guide to the best women’s running shoes — to outline the 14 best pairs you can buy right now. So, all you have to do is click, buy and shop. Yes, it’s that easy.

Following our top picks, check out our in-depth FAQ section outlining more you need to know about men’s running shoes to better understand your next best pair. Oh, and check out our expert guides to the best men’s walking shoes.

“With a 6mm heel to toe drop but additional cushioning, this shoe is perfect for overall comfort for most any runner or non-runner looking for a neutral shoe with some additional cushioning,” Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, DPM, physician in FASMA/USFAS with more than 17 years of experience treating a variety of foot ailments — and specializing in sports medicine issues such as plantar fasciitis, sprains, surgery and fractures — told The Post.

Not to mention, Brooks Running is also our podiatrist-approved “best overall” pick in our guide to the best women’s running shoes.

Size range: 7-14 I Colors: 10 I Materials: Mesh, DNA LOFT v3 foam, RoadTack rubber

“With the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning and full ground contact outsole, this versatile runner will keep you comfortable while on the go,” Daughtry notes. “This shoe offers a lightweight ride with an 8mm heel to toe drop.”

Not to mention, the sneakers are less than $100 and come in a variety of colors that are all oh-so-comfy.

Size range: 4-18 I Colors: 14 I Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, Fresh Foam midsole, rubber outsole

“The Arishi v4 is a versatile athletic shoe that you could wear just about anywhere with New Balance’s Fresh Foam midsole and durable outsole it will offer all day comfort and excellent performance at a reasonable price,” Daughtry notes, recommending the pair.

Not to mention, its cushioned midsole, breathable mesh upper and durable rubber outsole makes it suitable for all-day comfort and performance.

Size range: 7-15 I Colors: 5 I Materials: Mesh upper with suede and knit, rubber outsole

“The New Balance 993 is one of the best overall running shoes as it offers excellent comfort and support, coupled with a classic design,” Pinker notes. “It’s ideal for runners or walkers.”

Hailing from the brand’s legendary 990 series, the 993 features responsive cushioning and premium materials for ready-to-run wear.

Size range: 7-16 I Colors: 2 I Materials: Mesh upper, suede overlays, rubber outsole

Best Men’s Running Sneakers for Stability: ON Cloudmonster 3

Searching for a sturdy shoe that will go the distance? This design features Focusboard technology to keep you balanced while turning, along with Missiongrip for optimal traction. The brand’s signature CloudTec cushioning system ensures your feet absorb shock as they strike the ground.

Size range: 7-14 I Colors: 3 I Materials: Polyester

Built with high rebound cushioning and PEBA foam which is more resilient than the CarbonX foam, this shoe is comfortable enough for endurance running but also responds equally well to an increase in your running pace,” Daughtry notes.

Size range: 7-14 I Colors: 1 I Materials: Warp knit upper, compression molded sticky rubber

The New Balance Men’s FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 Running Shoes are a surefire splurge — but a good one at that. It was designed with a dual focus on energy return and lighter weight, complemented by a breathable, engineered knit upper. You’ll also appreciate its built-in tongue for a secure, locked-in fit.

“Extremely lightweight and offering a cushioned ride that sets you in the mood to run and even race through your day,” Daughtry said. “The FuelCell foam assists with your propulsion and the Energy Arc system will promote dynamic energy return. These shoes will power you through your marathon of the day.”

Coincidentally, Daughtry said she was “currently wearing a pair of these myself at the moment” as she was recommending them to us, and she can “personally vouch for the comfort of these shoes.” 

Size range: 7-14 I Colors: 2 I Materials: Light mesh upper with printed overlays

“Saucony’s PWRRUN foam midsole is lightweight and cushioned for an extremely comfortable yet supportive feel,” Daughtry said, recommending the pair. “Due to its ultra-lightweight nature, it offers more speed on the trails.”

Size range: 7-14 I Colors: 5 I Materials: Mesh upper with printed overlays, PWRRUN foam midsole, Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole

“The Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning is built for smooth transitions from heel strike to propulsion,” Daughtry said, vouching for the style. “The mesh upper is breathable yet supportive.”

What’s more, the combination of high performance and reliable comfort offers versatility that assists with the transition from everyday to a long run. “Its Ndurance rubber outsole is built for durability in high wear area,” she adds.

Size range: 4-20W I Colors: 20 I Materials: Mesh upper, Fresh Foam X midsole

The FF BLAST PLUS technology of the ASICS Men’s Gel-Cumulus 25 Running Shoes, according to Daughtry, “offers cushioning to provide lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound.”

Additionally, you’ll appreciate its PureGEL technology provides softer landings, excessive cushioning and handsome look. 

Size range: 6-16 I Colors: 14 I Materials: Mesh upper, EVA foam, rubber

“This is a great option for those who prefer a shoe insole that forms to your foot after a few runs and offers plenty of arch support,” Daughtry said, recommending the Nike Men’s Pegasus.

The shoe’s midsole has lots of thick React foam, too. As a result, it provides a soft responsive feel to the foot and a gender-differentiated cushion. 

Size range: 6-15 I Colors: 16 I Materials: Mesh upper, ReactX foam, rubber outsole (all recycled materials)

“This shoe brings a trifecta of plush midsole padding with Flytefoam, Flytefoam Propel and its gel pods at the forefoot and heel to absorb impact and help with propulsion,” Daughtry said.

Also this shoe offers a gender-specific medial plate. “Its forefoot designs provide targeted support based on slight differences between men and women,” she adds.

Size range: 10-12 I Colors: 1 I Materials: Jacquard mesh upper, knitted tongue and collar, rubber outsole, polyester lining and ethylene vinyl acetate insole

Allbirds has made some waves in the shoe sphere, and we can see why. They’re sneakers on casual-cool, well-designed and are light as clouds.

The Men’s Tree Dasher 2 is a wonderful everyday shoe for jogging and light workouts. The responsive foam, extra grip, and improved fit are meant to keep you moving. A heel collar also helps lock the ankle in place for added security while working out. Snatch them up while the deal lasts!

Size range: 8-14 I Colors: 15 I Materials: Ethylene vinyl acetate, rubber, tencel lyocell, wool

Described as the intersection of performance and luxury, the APL TechLoom vegan running shoe is designed to maximize energy generation and provide superior comfort that will maintain midsole structural integrity longer than conventional EVA. All shoes are unisex — and come in a variety of shades and sizes.

“One of the standout features of these sneakers is their innovative design, which incorporates a seamless, woven upper made from a breathable mesh material. This not only gives the sneakers a sleek, modern look but also helps to keep your feet cool and comfortable during even the most intense workouts,” one shopper noted.

Size range: 7-15 I Colors: 14 I Materials: Woven TechLoom upper, Propelium midsole and outsole

An FAQ on men’s running shoes

Ahead, our team of podiatrists shares the 411 on what to look for in a quality pair of women’s running shoes — including materials, support levels and more.

How do running shoes differ from traditional sneakers?

Running shoes traditionally are lightweight and made to propel a person faster than traditional shoes.

“Depending on the sport, the treads vary depending on the activity,” Daughtry told The Post. “For example, cross trainers have treads that make side-to-side motion easier while trail shoes have deeper and stronger tread to help with uneven terrain.”

Some sneakers are more casual and lack adequate arch support or fail to offer enough room to accommodate for needed additional arch support or orthotics. “Running shoes also have better cushion for shock absorption needed to protect the foot from the rigors of the repetition of pounding on the ground that occurs with running,” she adds.

What are the benefits of wearing running shoes?

According to Pinker, running shoes will “provide support, shock absorption and cushioning, which can help prevent injury and allow for more enjoyable and efficient running.”

Additionally, running sneakers are lightweight, better arch support/orthotic-friendly and improved shock absorption. They typically have mesh material to allow for a more breathable style of shoe as well as allowing stretch for toe deformities.

If you’re looking for supportive running shoes, we suggest Brooks Ghost, HOKA ONE Men’s Running Shoe, or New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Roav V1 Classic Sneaker.

When should I wear running shoes (besides running, of course)?

According to Pinker, most running shoes are excellent choices for walking. However, there are additional ways you can sport your new favorite running shoes.

“Most any athletic activity such as cross training, gym workouts, walking, aerobics and even work are ideal to use running shoes for, in my opinion!” Daughtry lists. “But the advanced, more specific running shoes should be reserved for the running course.”

More, a neutral or basic running shoe is a great foundation for those who have orthotics due to foot ailments or congenital foot deformities. 

What materials are running shoes typically made from? 

“The outsole is made of carbon rubber which is the durable component of the sole of running shoes while the forefoot outsole usually is created by using blown rubber, a less durable than but more cushioned feel for shock absorption,” Daughtry explains. “The midsole of athletic shoes are typically made from ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyurethane.”

Additionally, the midsole may also contain cushioning elements such as gel or encapsulated air or foam to assist with shock absorption, especially in the more cushioned version of running shoes for long distance running.

What materials make running shoes “waterproof”? 

“For waterproofing, Gore Tex is often the material of choice,” Pinker shares. Specifically, this material is the “most popular waterproof material in shoes and is similar to three layer raincoats,” according to Daughtry.

Why is it similar to a triage of raincoats? There’s a waterproof membrane sandwiched between the liner and the outer fabric. “However, The problem with waterproof shoes is that they are great at keeping water out but also keeping water inside so this type of shoe does not breathe as much and causes excessive sweating and moisture to feet,” Daughtry notes.

Your podiatrist-backed guide to shopping for running shoes online:

When choosing a shoe, the planned activity should be considered because different activities necessitate different shoe needs.

“Even within running, the options vary tremendously based on whether you are a long distance runner or a sprinter,” Daughtry shares. “In general, the best option is to choose a shoe that has the best fit for you and your needs.”

What to know? More cushioning is needed for long distance running while “less is more” is better for those wanting to add speed and shave time off their run. “The shoe should fit properly from heel to toe and feel comfortable with regular stride, be it walking or running,” she adds.

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