Best Rated Running Shoes

Top Rated Shoes

Whether you run for fun or competitively, the best rated running shoes will help you put foot to pavement safely and effectively. However, it's important to keep in mind that the best shoe options can vary greatly from person to person. Depending on your weight, stride, distances run, general pace, and a host of other factors, one runner's ideal shoe will only cause pain and blisters on another. The following picks should only be a starting point for selecting your own personal top running shoes.

1.

 In a list of the best rated running shoes, Consumer Reports listed the Nike Air Zoom Vomero +2 at the top of both the men's and women's categories. They demonstrated excellent fit and cushioning with very good stability and flexibility. The shoe also comes with the Nike+ system, an electronic system that helps you chart your progress.

2.

 The Gel-Kayano was the Editor's Pick in the Runner's World Spring 2009 Running Shoe Guide. Added gel gives the shoes excellent cushioning. Consumer reviews on Amazon.com give the shoe five stars, with one runner even proclaiming it the best shoe he or she had ever worn. The only potential downside to the shoe is an off-center lacing style. Some runners enjoy the snug wrap created by the laces while others find it difficult to align.

3.

 In a feature on the Fastest Running Shoes of 2009, Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine listed the Roclite 295 as its number one pick. The magazine made note of the shoes' rubber cleats that provide excellent grip on any surface while also mentioning their light weight and durability.

4.

 Runner's World called the ProGrid Echelon one of the best debuts of 2009, recommending it to runners that need to wear orthotics or who have high arches. Running Times noted that the shoe provided a lot of cushioning in the sole, making it ideal for heavier runners and those who prefer this kind of cushioning from the impacts of the road.

5.

 The Brooks Glycerin 6 was another highly rated shoe in the Consumer Reports list. It received excellent scores in fit and breathability. The shoe features a weather-repellant upper for running in all conditions.

6.

 The 1063 was named Best Update by Runner's World. The magazine praised its durability, snugness and cushioning. Running Times called the shoe versatile, able to take runners through a variety of paces and race lengths. Consumer reviews on Amazon.com give the shoe five stars.

7.

 The Infinitus was the number three pick among women's running shoes at Consumer Reports. The shoe is lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for neutral runners.

8.

 The Wave Nexus 3 was Runner's World's Best Buy. The wallet-friendly price doesn't leave room for many bells and whistles, but runners enjoyed the spacious toebox and the overall lightness of the design.

9.

 Consumer Reports recommended these two Champion shoes for casual runners only. At $30 and $28 respectively, they are a quarter of the price of some of the best rated running shoes. The Helium received good ratings in fit, cushioning and stability and the Wonder C9 earned very good marks in fit and flexibility. Although they came in low in the overall rankings, if you're just running around the neighborhood for a workout, they perform respectably.