Running is a high-impact activity that could injure joints and muscles. Fortunately, an appropriate pair of running shoes can reduce this impact and guide your pace according to anatomical standard.
The right pair of running shoes is determined depending on the pronation and structure of the feet. For example, high-arch feet require the best neutral running shoes.
A debate on the appropriate amount of cushioning has been going on for years. It paved the way to the two traditional types of running shoes: cushion shoes for under-pronation or runners with high arches, and stability shoes for over-pronation or low arches.
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Best Neutral Running Shoes Comparison Chart
Best Neutral Running Shoes Reviews
There is a wide variety of neutral running shoes today. Each has its unique features, design, and level of comfort needed for specific needs. Choosing a good pair can be challenging. To narrow down the selection, here are the top picks under this category:
1. Brooks Women’s Glycerin 15
Available in more than 25 colors, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 15 equips runners with the appropriate take-off and gravity-defying response to every gait. The combination of design and awesome features makes this possible.
Features
The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 15 is made with imported mesh and fabric materials that create comfort and support. It is breathable and allows the air to circulate through the insides. It also prevents sweating that results in undesirable sensation and experience.
- Materials
The specific material for breathability is the one-piece air mesh fabric upper with interior bootie. It provides superior breathability and flexibility in every move.
The support type the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 15 provides is neutral. It has a light amount of cushioning that supports flexible response. The midsole is made with full-length S-257 Cush sole compound that uses an insole board for added softness.
Another material in the midsole is the Super DNA, which provides long-term cushioning. It is an eco-friendly material that offers 25% more cushioning than other midsole materials.
- Design
The 3D Fit Print Technology gives the shoes a deliberate stretch to accommodate moves and paces. Combined with a lace-up closure, it ensures that it stays comfortably fitted while running.
The midfoot transition zone and the heel segmented crash pad complement each other for a quick heel-to-toe shift. The forefront is made with a blown rubber material to provide a convenient springy toe-lift. Meanwhile, the heel finds its natural movement path through the U-Groove design.
The outsole is made to be extremely durable to preserve the shoe quality and protect the interior structure. It has a scratch-resistant HPR Plus rubber that provides durability and strength.
PROS
- checkUniversally-shaped platform
- checkEnvironment-friendly materials
- checkSnug and secure lace-up area
- checkRoomy toe box
- checkGood ankle padding
- checkReduces existing foot pain
- checkVersatile and lightweight
- checkGreat balance of support and comfort
CONS
- Measurements vary by size
2. Asics Gel-Excite 4 Men’s Running Shoes
Asics is a trusted Japanese brand of high-quality athletic footwear. Their products are manufactured to promote overall health and fitness. One of its performance-driven footwear is the Gel-Excite 4 Men’s Running Shoes.
Features
The Gel-Excite 4 Men’s Running Shoes is made with 100% imported synthetic materials. It weighs 12 ounces and comes in more than 10 colors. The shaft has a measurement that is approximately “low-top” from the arch.
- Sock Liner
One of the unique features of Gel-Excite 4 Men’s Running Shoes is the detachable sock liner. This added structure can be removed to give space for a medical orthotic. It doesn’t stop you from doing physical activities and can even improve your foot’s condition.
- Gel Cushioning
The rear foot area has a gel cushioning system that helps reduce shock during pronation and supports a smooth transition to the middle stance.
- The Outsole
The outsole called AHAR stands for Asics High Abrasion Rubber. This proprietary material is strategically incorporated in critical areas that are prone to extreme tension and scratches. It is exceptionally durable and protects the foot against pain and stress.
As a running shoe for men, the Gel-Excite 4 Men’s Running Shoes is intended for heavy-duty performance for heavy-runners and those with large body builds.
PROS
- checkCan relieve foot pain
- checkSturdy yet comfortable
- checkActual air flow through the mesh upper
- checkGood-looking, low-rise shoe
- checkSuitable for heavy-duty use
- checkReduces stress on the foot
CONS
- Runs half a size smaller
3. Mizuno Wave Rider 21 Men’s Running Shoes
For almost 100 years, Mizuno has been developing sports apparels with various features that improve athletic performance. One of its best-selling products is the Wave Rider 21 Men’s Running Shoes.
Available in six colors and designs, it also comes in half sizes and with notable features that are intended for neutral or high-arched runners.
Features
Made with imported mesh, Mizuno’s Wave Rider 21 has a durable, comfortable quality. It offers a sufficient level of cushioning for lightweight ride and performance.
- Materials
It is made with a shaft that measures roughly low-top from the arch. The midsole is made with U4IC foam that improves response and sturdiness.
The triple-zone engineered mesh on the exterior holds the other parts together regardless of motions and stance. It also increases the breathability of the shoes for a more cooling sensation while on the go.
- Design
As a neutral running shoe, it has a CLoudWave construction that helps eliminate shock, improves guidance, and enhances energy response.
The sock liner is anatomically designed and provides the added support and cushioning that high-arched foot runners need. The upper material gives flexible support for various motions and long-distance running.
PROS
- checkTrue to size
- checkHas arch support
- checkBalanced stability and support
- checkLightweight and breathable
- checkAllows a natural feel of the ground contact
- checkLong-lasting
- checkGreat for huge runners
CONS
- Not for runners with plantar fasciitis
- Quite expensive
Conclusion
A neutral running shoe is made with a curved shape to provide optimal support for high arches. This kind of shoe absorbs the impact that could be anatomically dangerous for the foot. It is also made with midsoles and other engineered designs for a smooth heel-to-toe shift.
Among the three products above, the best neutral running shoes is the Asics Gel-Excite 4. Although it runs half a size smaller, its features compensate this minor drawback. It is not only made with high-quality materials and mechanisms, but it also has a medically supported design. The Gel-Excite 4 can relieve certain kinds of foot pains.
The Gel-Excite 4 is suitable for everyday use and long-distance running, as well as for people with orthopedic issues. With its cushioning and high-arch support, it indeed follows the Asics’ promise of a sound mind in a sound body.
I have been having issues with my calves for years. I used to love to run and I would run with my kids all the time. Then one day my shins started hurting really bad. I tried a few different pairs of shoes that I thought might help with that. But, in the end all I did was lay off the running. Not that my boys minded too much! They started winning our little races more. You mentioned that the Gel Excite 4 relieves most foot issues. Does that include shin splints? I know that’s not directly IN the foot, but I’ve no doubt it stems from there. Thank you!
Hello, Kaeyoes, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
It is not comfortable to run when the calves are making a problem. And you need to be careful about it.
When it is injuries I would always recommend that you talk about it with your physiotherapist or doctor. It is much safer, and we need to respect injuries so I would stress that you do that first.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Thanks for listing some of the best netural running shoes. I’m usually not into Asics, but I must admit that the design of Asics Gel-Excite is really nice. The gel cushioning system make this shoes even nicer. However, I’m not a heavy runner. Will this shoes still suitable for light runner like me? Thank you
Hello, Alblue, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Yes, it is not a problem. The reason for that I talk about it is that running shoes can be different for heavier runners and need more support.
I agree with you about these shoes. Excellent design.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Wow!
What an article about the best neutral running shoes!! I think this article wrote for me lol.
Actually, I love to run one place to another place. It’s making my mind joy and fresh. But I haven’t enough idea what’s the best running shoes!!
You share some running shoes on your post and I love it. It looks so pretty. It’s also helpful for us. Besides my home town, there was a forest. And I going there for running.
Hello, Pronay Pappu, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
That’s a great guide to buying running shoes…
I just started running but my shoes do not seem to be appropriate for running as I am experiencing some lower back pain after my runs are over…
Which one of those shoes best absorb impact? I might need to go for those in order to avoid potential problems with my back and knees…
Hello, Xaric, and thank you.
Running with back pains is not easy. I want to recommend that you look more at cushion running shoes for that problem and see it is to help you.
I wrote both information about this type of shoes and let people know about some exceptional items. But what I have in mind for you is that I recommend you to have a look at the New Balance Men’s 460v2 Cushioning Running Shoes. You can see a review of them here.
Their innovative design helps reduce foot rolling, preventing knee pains and other complications. They are very comfortable too, mostly because of the rubber sole, which helps to absorb road vibrations and it is kind to your feet.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions.