All running shoes have cushioning components in them - some more, some less. Together with other aspects and technologies, they create a shoe that will fit you or not. We''ve got 10 tips for shoes that are more cushioned, promise comfort and are among bestsellers in the running market.
1) Nike Invincible 3
A popular long distance running shoe that gives you the best in comfort and performance.
- The Nike Invincible 3 features high-support technology with targeted cushioning and stability to protect your foot from the effects of pronation.
- Cradle-shaped Nike ZoomX foam cushioning takes care of comfort and a soft feel underfoot.
- The Flyknit upper is breathable and durable at the same time.
Drop: 9 mm
Terrain: Road

2) ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28
The slogan "Nothing feels better" takes on a whole new dimension with the latest Gel-Nimbus 28, confirming its place at the very top of the maximalist cushioning category. This shoe has captured the hearts of both professionals and hobby runners alike—and it’s no surprise why.
- The new version features an even more refined geometry for a smoother transition from landing to toe-off.
- The key to its unrivaled comfort is the innovated PureGEL™ technology under the heel. Combined with the enhanced FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam in the midsole, it ensures superior shock absorption while providing the necessary dynamics and a more noticeable energy return.
- The newly designed knit upper is even lighter and more breathable. Details like the softly padded tongue and flexible ankle construction guarantee that your foot will feel pampered and pressure-free, even during long training sessions.
These features make the Gel-Nimbus 28 a versatile partner for everything from light, short runs to marathon distances. Sustainability remains a priority for this series as well; the midsole contains a high proportion of bio-based content, and the majority of the upper is made from recycled materials. Through these efforts, ASICS effectively reduces its carbon footprint and water consumption during production.
Drop: 8 mm
Terrain: Road

3) Hoka Bondi 9
The Hoka Bondi 9 represents the absolute pinnacle of cushioning and foot protection offered by the brand for daily running on hard surfaces.
- It will be appreciated by runners of all performance levels seeking maximum comfort – each, however, for a different type of run. Beginners will find it perfect for daily outings, hobby runners can rely on it for long-distance volume training, and experienced athletes will appreciate it for recovery runs.
- The shoe’s standout feature is its massive midsole made of a new, lighter, and more durable foam, which, combined with Meta-Rocker technology, ensures a smooth transition from landing to toe-off, saving both your energy and your joints.
- Thanks to its wider base, the Bondi 9 provides solid stability – higher than you would expect from such a cushioned shoe.
- The breathable technical mesh upper and padded heel collar guarantee that your foot remains comfortable even after hours of running.
If you prefer a "cloud-like" sensation while running or walking and want to minimize musculoskeletal fatigue regardless of the mileage, you and the Hoka Bondi will get along perfectly.
Drop: 5 mm
Terrain: Road

4) adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
The new generation of the top racing shoe for long road courses cannot be missed here.
- The midsole features two layers of durable Lightstrike Pro foam to ensure comfort even after dozens of miles. But beware, that's not all the midsole has to offer.
- It also contains optimized ENERGYRODS 2.0 carbon parts, which have been redesigned and tuned in the Pro 4 to give you an even smoother transition from impact to rebound.
- The adizero LIGHTLOCK upper is made to naturally contour to the shape of your foot.
- The Continental outsole ensures solid traction even at high speeds and now reliably on wet surfaces.
One final interesting fact - runners in the Adizero Adios Pro have broken several world records, for example at the London Marathon (2024) and Berlin Marathon (2023). This shoe is simply made for breaking your marathon records.
Drop: 6.5 mm
Terrain: Road

5) On Cloudmonster 2
A volume neutral shoe for your everyday workout.
- As its name suggests, you can expect monstrous CloudTec cushioning.
- That''s combined with an explosive Speedboard, a distinctive rocker, as well as Helion foam that''s lightweight, durable, temperature-proof, and takes care of energy return.
What does this cool trio bring to the table? Big energy return, explosive rebound and dreamy comfort.
Drop: 6 mm
Terrain: Road

6) Nike Alphafly 3
What is the main mission of these shoes? They are made for overcoming personal bests while not having to worry about your comfort.
- Three innovative technologies push you forward: a double dose of Air Zoom units give you extra energy on every rebound, a full-length carbon fibre plate shoots you forward, and a ZoomX foam midsole from toe to heel ensures a lightweight feel and soft tread for 42.2 kilometres.
- The Alphafly 3 is the lightest member of the Alphafly family ever.
- What else is new? It has a slightly wider carbon fiber plate for better stability and a completely redesigned Atomknit upper designed for better foot lockdown and breathability.
Drop: 8 mm
Terrain: Road

7) New Balance 1080 v15
The New Balance 1080 v15 is a versatile road shoe that wins you over with its premium comfort – meeting the needs of both hobbyists and demanding runners during daily training.
- The key feature is the innovated Infinion cushioning foam in the midsole, which is now even more resilient and better structured to soften every landing while ensuring a very snappy and energetic toe-off. But that’s not all.
- This version stands out for its incredible lightness and adaptability, aided by the engineered knit upper. It wraps the foot securely yet very gently.
- The shoe is perfect for easy recovery runs, but thanks to its dynamics, it will also support you during faster paces, making it one of the most versatile cushioned shoes on the market.
If you’re looking for an exciting mix of comfort and performance, the New Balance 1080 v15 is a shoe that will make every mile fun.
Drop: 6 mm
Terrain: Road

8) Nike ZoomX Zegama 2
And jump into the trail too! You can handle forest trails and rough mountain terrain in Nike Zegama 2 trail model.
- The second version of the popular trail shoe brings an ultraresponsive ZoomX foam midsole to protect you from hard footfalls.
- Thanks to the internal heel construction and special mesh upper, you'll also be able to maintain stability on technical terrain.
- Stability and grip are also aided by the Vibram outsole, whose pattern is now even deeper, more varied and with larger gaps.
In the Nike Zegama, you'll enjoy your next trail adventure to the fullest, training and racing alike. And of course, reflective details are included for added safety in the dark.
Drop: 4 mm
Terrain: Trail

9) ASICS Gel-Trabuco 14
And we’re staying off-road. The ASICS GEL-Trabuco 14 is a versatile trail shoe designed for both short and long runs.
- The midsole, featuring lightweight FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning foam, ensures soft landings and effective shock absorption in challenging terrain.
- Reliable traction on diverse surfaces is provided by the enhanced ASICSGRIP™ outsole.
- The shoe’s construction offers stable support even for runners with overpronation.
- And since trail runs can be unpredictable when it comes to weather, the Gel-Trabuco 14 is also available in a Gore-Tex version, which will keep you going in damp, rainy, or muddy conditions.
This new generation offers the perfect balance of protection, stability, and comfort for every trail adventure.
Drop: 8 mm
Terrain: Trail

10) CRAFT CTM Ultra Trail
And last but not least, we have an amphibian.
- The CRAFT CTM Ultra Trail shoe is a great choice for long-volume running on a variety of surfaces - from road to gravel and paved paths to trail and sidewalks.
- Cushioning is provided by 40 millimeters of UD Foam, which combines light weight and high durability. "Fast & light" is the mantra of this material, and you''ll understand why after the very first step. The combination of this foam with aggressive geometry will push you to further.
- At the same time, you can count on good stability in the terrain and very high durability thanks to the unique chemical composition.
Drop: 10 mm
Terrain: Road and trail
