Max cushioning has become a key staple in the runner’s rotation of shoes. (That’s no secret!) And that’s expected to continue into 2025. However, new growth areas from low profile solutions to super trainers are also emerging with the benefit of new materials and design techniques. Carbon-plated models also continue to see strong demand from race-day runners, while minimal models are making a small comeback. Expect cushioning to be the most significant sales driver in the running footwear space through 2025, supporting both max cushioning and daily training categories. Across the board in running footwear, innovation continues to elevate product offerings.

1. Mizuno Neo Vista

An everyday running shoe, the Neo Vista’s Smooth Speed Assist design has 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.

2. 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.

3. Puma MagMax NITRO

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

4. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

The FuelCell SC Elite v4 features a FuelCell midsole with PEBA foam combined with a thinner carbon fiber plate, offering superior energy return in a lightweight package. MSRP $250.

5. 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 offers comfort and responsiveness and eases heel-to-toe transitions. MSRP $200.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Nike Vomero 18

The new Vomero has the tallest stack height in the franchise’s history, using ZoomX and ReactX foams for double-stacked cushion. The Vomero franchise is one of three distinct categories in Nike’s simplified Road Running footwear lineup — Vomero offers max cushion and comfort; Pegasus delivers responsive cushioning; and the Structure franchise offers supportive cushioning. The new Vomero will be available at retail at the end of February.