“We believe that cushioning and max cushioning will continue to be popular, but we do believe that other levels of cushioning will begin to re-emerge as consumers continue to look for different experiences while running,” said Alex Lind, product director at Altra.

Carbon-plated models also continue to see strong demand from race-day runners, while minimal models are making a small comeback.

“Some customers will be looking for more minimal products, and we are seeing increased demand for some of the most minimal shoes in our line,” said Russ Stevens, product manager at Topo. “The sales of minimal shoes do not account for the same volume as our cushioned models, but we are seeing the category as an opportunity for growth. We are also seeing that more minimal products are starting to trend in the lifestyle space, which may start to trickle into running in the coming years.”

Indeed, while few calls for the return of the barefoot craze are being heard, interest on the lifestyle side in low-profile silhouettes, marked by Adidas’ Samba and Gazelle terrace sneakers, appears to be an opportunity for running footwear to address more minimal designs.

Stevens still expects cushioning to be the most significant sales driver in the running footwear space through 2025, supporting both max cushioning and daily training categories. He noted that demand for plush models is likewise benefiting from innovation that’s elevating product. Stevens observed, ”With the high stack heights, we expect foam technologies and midsole geometries to continue to evolve and improve, allowing shoes to feel light, smooth, and fast despite the high stack heights.”

Kevin Fitzpatrick, New Balance’s VP of performance running, also expects max cushioning and other stacked styles to remain strong sellers in 2025, noting that cushioning remains “one of the key drivers for runners as they look for comfort and protection.”

However, New Balance saw an opportunity this year to bring back Minimus, its minimal range first launched in 2011, and will continue to add Minimus models in 2025 in both running and training. Fitzpatrick said, “This type of shoe is used as a tool for runners to get closer to the ground, improve feel and create a natural foot position.”

Fitzpatrick further sees continuing momentum behind carbon plates as they’ve become the “gold standard” component to race-day footwear. He said, “We are seeing more carbon plates in high-end training shoes this year and this will continue in 2025. The consumer understands the benefits of carbon fiber and is looking for it in different kinds of footwear.”

Mike Arce, national sales manager at Xelero, believes runners are learning more and more about the benefits of carbon plates, including not only speed but improved running economy, enhanced stability and reduced ankle flexion. He further sees runners increasingly discerning the difference between carbon plate applications.

“The idea that anyone can put a carbon plate in a foamy super soft outsole will be greatly disappointed,” said Arce. “What you place the carbon plate on matters. A carbon plate combined with a mild rocker and built-in propulsion system is the perfect marriage biomechanically speaking. Think of like loading a diving board. You have to load the board (carbon plate) in order to launch you.”

Conor Cashin, senior product line manager Run/Train Footwear at Puma, sees a number of trends working in running footwear. He said, “Carbon plates, max cushion, and super foams are still ‘buzzy’ as that combination is allowing runners to go faster and further than ever before.”

With max cushioning trending up ever since Hoka came to market in 2009, Cashin further believes expectations have been raised about what a plush ride offers. He said, “Shoes that have a 34mm stack height used to be seen as very cushioned, but now are seen as medium cushioning or more lightweight/low profile.”

Regardless, Puma ensures its range of running product covers a wide range for usage from those running a marathon, doing intervals on the track to an easy jog. Cashin added, “We won’t forget about low profile or more minimalistic running either. Running without carbon plates and with less cushion can be good for runners, mixing up the stress on their muscles and joints.”

Chris Brewer, senior director, running, Mizuno USA, sees increasing demand for more traditional stack heights to complement the plethora of higher stack models now available for a better and more well-rounded running experience.

“We believe that there will always be a need and demand for higher stack height shoes. And carbon-plated shoes,” said Brewer. “But we also believe that too high is too high and too soft is too soft.”

Brewer doesn’t see the industry moving back to 20/10mm midsoles and barefoot models, “but we know there is a certain experiences runners are seeking that is simpler and lower.”

Brewer adds, “The reality is that runners are seeking highly technical racing shoes, really great go-faster/elevated daily trainers, daily trainers, and maximum cushioning/recovery training shoes. Our prediction is that more traditional stack heights shoes can and will fall into each of these experience silos.”

At Saucony, Ted Fitzpatrick, VP of product management, believes the overarching driver on the performance run side will continue to emphasize cushioning with Saucony seeing strongest growth from its max cushion shoes (Guide and Hurricane) and Neutral Cushion shoes (Ride, Triumph). He said, “The demand for comfort and a protective/supportive feel continue to be desired for everyday running as well as everyday comfort/wear.”

Fitzpatrick adds, “There are always rumblings and of course a subset of consumers who want to have more connection to the ground. That is where our Kinvara comes into play. But the industry is riding a wave of cushion right now that we see continuing to drive the business in 2025.”

Fitzpatrick likewise believes carbon plate models will continue to hold appeal with the brand’s Endorphin Pro and Elite continuing to be in the top five to 10 of all shoes at major marathons. Fitzpatrick said, “Runners who run races and marathons from the super-fast trying to qualify for the Olympic Trials to those trying to get a Boston qualifier to those looking to finish are choosing Endorphin in a major way. We are seeing more mid to back packers pick Endorphin for race day.”

Fitzpatrick said the Endorphin particularly appeals to runners looking to “minimize distraction and maximize performance” as they prepare for race day. For others, models such as Guide and Hurricane squarely address the “daily grind” of their daily run. Fitzpatrick said, “Comfort means cushioning and protection to feel centered and balanced on the platform. And comfort also means the aesthetic and color. As run shoes get worn more and more for everyday wear it is critical to use trend right materials and colors as well as delivering a silhouette that works with multiple outfits.”

Zoé Gerdil, On’s footwear product manager, still sees robust demand continuing for max cushioning models.

“Max cushioning is a trend that has an appeal with a much larger spectrum of runners, from beginner runners to long distance athletes, as it is intrinsically linked to comfort — something everyone is looking for,” said Gerdil. “With foams becoming lighter and more durable the trend will most likely continue to grow in popularity, versatility and become a key part of our comfort-oriented category.”

Gerdil adds, “Certainly terrace culture (recently also motorsport) and lower profile midsoles have had a comeback in the lifestyle and fashion arena. Whilst this may inspire new, re-imagined footwear concepts, we don't see the demand for max cushioning and comfort going away in the world of performance running any time soon as it enables many runners to run longer and with less pain.”

Brooks sees the max cushion category continuing to grow with planned investments set to continue for its max models, namely the Glycerin Max and Ghost Max 2. Bryan Bhark, Brooks’ manager of innovation development, said, “Brooks spent years researching, developing, and establishing our POV on max cushioning.”

However, Bhark added that many runners still look for Brooks’ traditional profiles, like the Ghost and Adrenaline, as well as for alternative experiences such as its range of Speed shoes in the Hyperion line, including the carbon-plated Hyperion Elite.

“Brooks is focused on providing distinct experiences for any type of runner, whether they are following current trends or have specific preferences, such as a model that moves for them or moves with them,” said Bhark. “We also see future opportunities to leverage modern materials and processes coupled with our biomechanical insights from previous product lines to deliver something truly remarkable in the future…stay tuned. We feel runners are looking for choice, comfort, and aesthetics when it comes to their shoes and so we want to meet them where they are, and furthermore, anticipate their future needs.”

Skechers’ VP of product development & merchandising, Greg Smith, believes runners are still looking for cushioning and responsiveness, as well as comfort that performs. He adds the new materials are creating a wide array of options for runners.

“I think foams have advanced so much in the past five years that there’s something for every type of runner,” said Smith. “You can have a max cushioned style that’s still lightweight. It really comes down to runner needs and preferences and how you can provide her or him with that benefit.”

“Plates are still going to play a role,” adds Smith, “but as materials continue to advance, I can see solutions beyond just carbon fiber.”

Mizuno

Neo Vista

An everyday runner, the Neo Vista features Smooth Speed Assist design with a significant heel bevel for an efficient midfoot landing. The aggressive forefoot rocker delivers a smooth and propulsive transition. Mizuno’s ENERZY NXT midsole material maximizes energy return and cushioning. MSRP $180.

Asics

Novablast 5

Featuring FF BLAST MAX cushioning that supports softer landings and a more energized toe-off, the Novablast 5 also has a trampoline-inspired outsole design for a more responsive bounce back. Tongue wing construction in the upper helps improves the fit while reducing tongue movement.
MSRP $140.

Xelero

GPS

Suited for both supination and pronation runners, the Xelero GPS is a lightweight, super-stability running shoe featuring the brand’s Guidance Propulsion System that guides the foot into a neutral position. “Slingshot” carbon fiber plate adds torsional stability, aids in forward motion, and offloads bottom pressure.
MSRP $219.99.

On

Cloudmonster 2

The Cloudmonster 2 features updates to the CloudTec sole that include an elevated stack height for a more cushioned sensation, combined with a new dual-density midsole which is firmer at the back and softer at the front for smooth but energetic transitions.
MSRP $180.

Brooks

Glycerin Max

The high-stack Glycerin Max features DNA Tuned, a nitrogen-infused foam featuring dual-size cell technology. Larger cells in the heel provide plush landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot invite responsive toe-offs. A GlideRoll Rocker eases heel-to-toe transitions.
MSRP $200.

Altra

FWD VIA

Marking the third iteration of the original VIA Olympus with zero drop, the max-cushioned FWD VIA features a new lightweight and responsive nitrogen-infused midsole foam, a rocker shape with a 4 mm drop, and the brand’s roomiest toe box for an efficient and smooth stride. MSRP $160.

Puma

MagMax NITRO

Featuring Puma’s Nitrofoam technology, the MagMax has a 46mm heel stack height for maximum cushioning, comfort and bounce. PUMAGrip durable rubber sole offers multi-surface traction.
MSRP $180.

Saucony

Endorphin Elite 2

Designed for competitive racing on the roads, the Endorphin Elite 2 features Saucony’s most responsive foam ever for energy return and cushioning. A full-length slotted carbon fiber plate provides a smooth underfoot transition with a propulsive feel.
MSRP $275.

Skechers

GOrun Razor 5

A lightweight, durable, and neutral running shoe, the GOrun Razor 5 delivers a fast and responsive feel thanks to Skechers Hyper Burst Pro TPU cushioning, Hyper Arc technology promoting energy efficiency with each stride, and a carbon-infused forefoot plate for next-level energy return. MSRP $130.