The running shoe world can feel overwhelming, with hundreds of options, endless buzzwords, and often conflicting advice, especially if you’re new to running. The most important shoe every runner needs is a reliable daily trainer. To make things easier, the Runna team has shared our top five daily trainers.
Why Daily Running Shoes Matter
Daily running shoes typically make up around 70–80% of a runner’s weekly mileage. They’re the go-to choice for easy runs, long runs, and often even faster sessions. Because of this, comfort, cushioning, versatility and support should be the top priority.
We always recommend visiting a specialist running store for a gait analysis and expert fitting advice. Everyone’s biomechanics are different, and trying shoes on in person is the best way to find the right fit for you.
Running Shoe Terms Explained
Stack Height
What it is: how much foam sits between your foot and the ground.
Why it matters: more stack generally means more cushioning and protection; lower stack gives more ground feel and stability.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
What it is: the difference in height between the heel and forefoot.
Why it matters: higher drops often feel more forgiving for heel strikers, while lower drops can feel more natural but load the calves more.
Rocker Geometry
What it is: a curved sole shape that helps roll you smoothly from landing to toe-off.
Why it matters: can make running feel smoother and reduce lower-leg fatigue.
Weight
Why it matters: lighter shoes feel quicker and more agile; heavier shoes often feel more cushioned and stable.
Foam Types
Super foams (often PEBA-based): very bouncy and energetic, commonly found in race shoes.
EVA foams: the backbone of most daily trainers – durable, cushioned, and reliable.
Proprietary blends: each brand’s own foam, varying from soft and plush to firmer and more responsive.
The Five Best Daily Running Shoes
These are the workhorse running shoes that the Runna team love and rely on week after week.
Three of the shoes on this list were among the most-worn models globally according to Strava’s Year in Sport. So we’re not just reviewing the latest hype, we’re talking about shoes runners actually choose, wear, and love.
1. Nike Pegasus 41
The Nike Pegasus 41 is one of the most reliable daily running shoes on the market, and for good reason. It’s designed to be a true all-rounder, capable of handling the bulk of your weekly training without demanding too much from your legs or your running form. If you’re looking for one shoe that can cover easy runs, long runs, and steady efforts, the Pegasus has has proven to be a safe and effective choice.
What sets the Pegasus 41 apart is its balance. It doesn’t chase extremes in softness or bounce, instead offering a smooth, slightly firm ride that feels stable and predictable. That consistency makes it especially appealing for runners building mileage or those who prefer a daily trainer that they can trust for every run type.
Good to know: It’s not the softest feeling shoe out there, so if you prefer plush cushioning this might feel firm.
Bottom line: A reliable, versatile daily trainer that can handle all of your weekly mileage with ease.
2. Hoka Clifton 10
The Hoka Clifton 10 is built for runners who prioritise comfort above all else. Known for its plush feel and forgiving ride, the Clifton has become a go-to daily trainer for easy miles, recovery runs, and anyone increasing their weekly volume. It’s the kind of shoe you reach for when your legs feel tired but you still want to get the miles in.
Despite its soft underfoot feel, the Clifton 10 maintains a smooth and stable ride thanks to Hoka’s lightweight cushioning and signature rocker shape. The result is a shoe that makes running feel easier, especially at relaxed paces, without feeling bulky or overbuilt.
Good to know: If you prefer a firmer or more responsive ride, this may feel too soft.
Bottom line: A comfort-first daily trainer that’s ideal for beginners, recovery runs, and building mileage gently.
3. ASICS NOVABLAST 5
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is the most energetic and responsive shoe in this lineup. It’s designed for runners who want their daily training to feel lively rather than muted, bringing a noticeable sense of bounce to everyday runs. If you like a shoe that makes even easy miles feel engaging, the Novablast stands out.
This fifth version leans further into that signature springy ride, pairing generous cushioning with a responsive midsole that encourages a smooth, flowing stride. It’s still comfortable enough for longer efforts, but it shines most when you want your daily trainer to add a bit of excitement to your training.
Good to know: The bounce may feel a bit too lively for runners who prefer a soft or muted ride.
Bottom line: A fun, energetic daily trainer that makes easy and steady runs feel more exciting.
4. New Balance 1080 v14
The New Balance 1080 v14 is a high-cushion daily trainer that blends comfort with structure. Designed for runners who want protection underfoot without sacrificing stability, it’s particularly well-suited to longer runs and higher weekly mileage.
Compared to previous versions, the v14 delivers a more controlled and efficient ride.
While the cushioning feels soft and protective, the shoe’s geometry helps guide your stride smoothly from landing to toe-off. That balance makes the 1080 v14 a dependable option for runners who want a plush feel but still value a sense of control and efficiency in their daily miles.
Good to know: A slightly heavier option that prioritises ultra plush cushioning over energy return.
Bottom line: A smooth, protective daily trainer that shines on easy runs, long runs, and higher weekly mileage.
5. Brooks Ghost 17
The Brooks Ghost 17 is one of the most beginner-friendly daily trainers available.
It’s built with simplicity in mind, offering a smooth, comfortable ride that works for a wide range of runners. There’s nothing flashy here, and that’s exactly the point.
With its balanced cushioning and forgiving geometry, the Ghost 17 is easy to settle into from the very first run. It’s a dependable choice for easy miles, walk-run programs, and consistent training, making it a trusted staple for runners who value comfort and reliability over hype.
Good to know: This shoe prioritises comfort over bounce and responsiveness.
Bottom line: A dependable, comfortable daily trainer that works for almost everyone straight out of the box.
Takeaways
There’s no single “best” running shoe, only the one that suits your feet and your training. If you want maximum comfort and softness, the Hoka Clifton 10 or New Balance 1080 v14 are great choices. For a more energetic, bouncy ride, the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 stands out. The Brooks Ghost 17 offers a smooth, forgiving option for beginners, while the Nike Pegasus 41 is the most versatile pick for handling a bit of everything across your week.