According to industry sales data from Circana, the performance footwear category outperformed the broader footwear market in Q1, with dollar sales up +5%, supported by both unit demand growth and ASP increases. Running was the standout, delivering double-digit dollar and unit growth – highlighting sustained consumer investment in shoes that support regular movement and wellness routines. And in the lifestyle space, running-inspired silhouettes continued to gain share while other sport-inspired segments slowed, according to Circana. The better news? There are plenty of options available for retailers looking to diversify their running shoe mix. From established stalwarts to reinvigorated brands, to newcomers making their mark, here are a few standouts to consider.

Kiprun/KiprideMax

Engineered to deliver max comfort and impact protection, the Kipride Max features a SOFTECH+ midsole blending comfort with an energized ride. It features a Warp Knit upper and a precision fit for a snug wrap around the foot. Kiprun, new to the U.S. market, is an established European brand owned by French retailer Decathlon. MSRP $165.

Mount to Coast/C1

This neutral super trainer from Mount to Coast combines responsiveness with cushion, and employs sustainable materials. A premium, responsive midsole with a bottom layer of rubberized EVA adds stability and traction. The Hong Kong-based brand first came to market in 2024 and is expanding its line with intention. MSRP $180.

Topo/Ultraventure 5

A popular road-to-trail and light hiking option from Topo, the Ultraventure 5 is a high cushion style with a ZipFoam midsole, OrthoLite performance insole, and a Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole. It also features a durable, recycled mesh upper. MSRP $155.

361/Ventus 2

Delivering premium cushioning, the Ventus 2 is soft, energetic, and lightweight, combining plush comfort with a smooth, responsive ride that doesn’t feel soft or clunky. The brand’s premium daily trainer is built for runners who want max cushion without the bulk. Underfoot, it has a dual-density supercritical PEBA midsole with 75% energy return. Available July 1. MSRP $160.

Mizuno/Neo Vista 3

Part of the brand’s “Bounce” silo, the Neo Vista 3 offers a balance between cushioning, structure, and energy return. The latest version features a new heel counter and Achillies cushioning for comfort and rear foot lock down. A 3-D Wave Plate acts as a spring in the midfoot, providing a bouncier sensation through the toe off. MSRP $200.

Skechers/Slip-ins: AERO Burst

Designed with Slip-ins construction for runners, this easy-on/easy-off, well-cushioned style has a heel counter for enhanced stability and a secure locked-in feel. It utilizes amplified HYPER BURST ICE midsole cushioning with HYPER ARC technology, and has a carbon-infused H-plate for energy return, plus a durable Goodyear Performance Outsole. MSRP $165

Kizik/Freedom Run

The brand’s first performance running shoe features its proprietary Internal Flex Arc system and Tented Heel Pocket, allowing for effortless step-in while maintaining a locked-in fit without heel slip. The hands-free shoe is its first built with VivaFoam, which is lightweight, durable, and designed to absorb impact and deliver energy return. Also has a rocker sole. MSRP $149.95.

R.A.D/Mallow

A newcomer to the run category, R.A.D Running’s newest style, the Mallow, is the third shoe in its running line-up. The Mallow has a SwellFoam midsole made from 40% Bio-based EVA and Olefin Block Copolymers. It has a 42mm heel stack and 8mm drop. Paired with the heel stack, the shoe’s toe rocker helps carry the runner forward with each stride. MSRP $150.

Salomon/Aero Glide 4 GRVL

Blending the comfort of a max-cushioned road shoe with the grip needed for gravel roads and light trails, this shoe offers versatility without feeling overly technical or bulky. It features lightweight optiFOAM² cushioning, Reverse Camber construction for smooth heel-to-toe transitions, a secure sensiFIT upper, a quickLACE neo tie system, and a grippy outsole. MSRP $160

OTIVM/Chorus

This new brand aims to combine performance, innovation and everyday comfort in its performance run styles. OTIVM shoes feature a multi-functional midsole system featuring 3-axis geometry, dual-tuned high-performance racing foams, and an anatomical contoured last to deliver a fast, comfortable ride—without the need for a carbon-fiber plate. MSRP $165.

PUMA/Deviate Pure NITRO

The latest addition to the brand’s Deviate franchise, the Pure NITRO is the first shoe in the line-up to be built using an evolved NITROFOAM, but does not feature PUMA’s PWRPLATE. It weighs in at 220 grams - 30 grams lighter than its carbon plated sister shoe, Deviate NITRO 4, making it a good choice smooth tempo runs. MSRPv$150.