Choosing the right running shoe is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. As the seasons change, it’s an excellent time to evaluate your current footwear and consider an upgrade. Our team of experienced runners has put the latest models to the test to help you find the perfect pair for your autumn miles.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the top running shoes available this fall. We cover the rigorous testing process our team undertook and explain why investing in quality footwear is one of the best decisions you can make for your running journey. You will find clear, structured information to help you select a shoe that aligns with your specific needs.
Why Invest in a Quality Running Shoe This Fall?
A good pair of running shoes is more than just a piece of gear; it's a vital tool that directly impacts your experience on the road or trail. As temperatures cool and conditions change, having the right shoe becomes even more important. Quality footwear provides essential support, cushioning, and stability, which helps reduce the risk of common running-related injuries.
Furthermore, a well-designed shoe enhances your performance. Modern shoe technology is engineered to improve energy return, promote a natural stride, and provide a comfortable ride, allowing you to run longer and more efficiently. Investing in yourself and your running means equipping your feet with the support they need to carry you through every mile. Your feet will thank you for it.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts, including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure that the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature highly rated products.
Asics | Astral | Brooks | CEP | Craft | Diadora | Hoka | Kane | KURU | La Sportiva | Merrell | New Balance | Nike | Reebok | Roll Recovery | Salomon | Saucony | Scarpa | Skechers | Speedland | The North Face | Under Armour | Velous
New Balance SuperComp Elite v5
The New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 is a race-day shoe designed for maximum speed and efficiency. Featuring a carbon-fiber plate and FuelCell midsole, this shoe delivers explosive energy return and a lightweight feel. The breathable knit upper ensures a snug fit, while the durable outsole provides reliable traction. Whether you're running a marathon or a 5K, the SuperComp Elite v5 is built to help you achieve your fastest times.
I've grown to have high expectations from New Balance's road shoes and the SuperComp Elite 5's deliver. I love the SuperComp Elite's so much that I have to remind myself that they're racing shoes and not meant to be every day all day shoes -- because I'd wear them all day every day even if there's no running involved whatsoever.
First Impressions:
My first impression in the Fuel Cell Elite was like walking on a bouncy cloud. The race vibes started to come back to me after no races for over a year!
True to size and very comfortable. They're so comfortable that it takes all of my discipline to take them off and not use them as everyday wear shoes. The responsiveness is dialed in to where there's a perfect balance between rigidity and flex in the Energy Arc sandwiched withing the pebax foam to make these the go-to shoe for a PR in a distance road race.
Things We Liked:
The fit and cushion and looks of the fuel cell elite are solid. This is a go to race and long run workout shoe. The shoe fits wonderfully and gives a ton of responsive cushion. They look and feel fast!
Already knowing that the SuperComp Elite v5 is going to deliver on structural design, responsiveness, comfort, and speed, my favorite thing about this shoe is the design. I love the simplicity of the shoe. It's like it knows it's utilitarian purpose so it leaves the pomp and flash for the other brands and models as they make up for performance and comfort with half-cocked, unecessary and distracted designs. The design is clean and simple so the focus can be on the structural design and engineering.
Areas for Improvement:
At this point there isn’t anything I would improve on the Fuel Cell elite!
I've never been a fan of the exposed plate in the outsole of the SuperComp Elite. In both the v4 and v5 versions I've picked up road debris. I've come home with rocks, acorns, and even a small PVC pipe coupler stuck in the sole of my shoe because of the width and depth of the Energy Arc's exposure point. I don't know if that cut-out is to reduce weight of the shoe, but I'd rather have a fraction of an ounce more in footweight than having something jammed up into the bottom of a performance race shoe, especially on race day when the plan is to PR.
Final Thoughts
If there were an award for the Super super shoe, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 would have to thank the academy, the producers, and you, the people, for taking a chance and spending your hard earned dollar on this big project that makes this super shoe so super. It's super in that it checks every box that a running shoe could check. Its competitors may have a stack height that reaches the maximum of legal eligibility, or an 3D printed construction, or a multi-plated midsole, or a focus on aesthetic design while having lost sight on the key utilitarian function of what a super shoe is supposed to be. Between comfort, cushion, responsiveness, durability, rigidity and return of carbon fiber plating, breathability, structural and aesthetic design, New Balance harmoniously brings these key elements together with the SuperComp Elite v5.
There are no frills and gimmicks. At the surface level, the SuperComp Elite v5 is a well-designed shoe. It's simple and comfortable to the point where you'll have to remind yourself to not wear them all day, every day outside of running because it just feels and looks good and right. Beyond the mesh and foam, the SuperComp Elite v5 was designed exactly how it should've been, as a utilitarian tool to be used to achieve your great and intended results on the race course. It has a job to do and at the $259.99 price point, it's the right hire.
Specs:
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 7.6 oz
- Price: $265
- Category: Cushion
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal for: Speed, Long Distance, Race
Buy:
Women's | Men's
New Balance Rebel v5
The New Balance Rebel v5 is a lightweight and responsive running shoe perfect for tempo runs and everyday training. Featuring a FuelCell midsole for a springy ride and a breathable mesh upper for ventilation, this shoe delivers comfort and performance in equal measure. The durable outsole ensures reliable grip, making it a versatile choice for runners who want to train fast and efficiently.
With its perfect fit, excellent cushioning, and padded heel, this surprisingly lightweight shoe feels like it was custom-made for comfort.
First Impressions:
The fit of this shoe is true. The weight makes it very comfortable to wear and the breathability is amazing.
My first impression of the shoes was the initial comfort of the shoe and weight of the show. I wear a size 7 and the fit was perfect! Once I took a few steps I was shocked by how light and comfortable the cushion of the shoe provides.
Things We Liked:
This shoe is so lightweight it almost feels like you are wearing nothing.
The shoe's most impressive feature was its support. After developing an ankle issue this shoe provided the stability I needed to continue my long-distance runs.
Areas for Improvement:
The shoe laces come untied too easily.
One area for the shoes improvement is the fit for a wide foot. My foot is narrow so the fit was perfect for me, but might be a different story for a wide foot.
Final Thoughts
The Rebel V5 is a great shoe for everyday training. It is light and bouncy which makes for a very comfortable fit. Add in the FuelCell foam shoe and you have a solid shoe for every workout.
The increased rubber coverage on the sole of the shoe offers an improved grip in various conditions.
,br/> At this price point, this shoe is worth checking out.
Specs:
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 8 oz
- Price: $145
- Category: Cushion
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True To Size
- Ideal for: Speed, Long Distance, Race
Buy:
Women's | Men's
New Balance 1080v14
The New Balance 1080v14 is a premium running shoe that offers plush cushioning and a smooth ride. Featuring a Fresh Foam X midsole for exceptional comfort and a breathable knit upper for a secure fit, this shoe is perfect for long-distance runs and daily training. The durable outsole provides reliable traction, making the 1080v14 a dependable choice for runners seeking both comfort and performance.
A daily trainer that feels like a treat for your legs.
First Impressions:
The New Balance 1080v14 immediately delivers plush comfort with a light, springy feel that avoids the bulk of many cushioned trainers. It comes across as smooth, stable, and versatile—equally at home on easy miles, recovery runs, or longer efforts.
The most immediately notable feature was the plush midsole. There is no doubt this shoe is designed for maximum cushioning and. The fit was comfortable with a generously padded tongue and heel cup and the upper felt light and breathable. Happily, the lacing system enabled a relatively snug fit across the midfoot, however, for my narrower than average feet they still felt a bit too wide. While the softness didn't make them sloppy, they also aren't particularly responsive to faster running.
Things We Liked:
The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a cushioned yet stable ride, making every run feel smoother and more enjoyable.
The softness is the standout feature. Whether walking around or running long, easy miles every step feels cushioned.
Areas for Improvement:
The upper could be more durable in high-wear areas for long-term use.
Although I found the toebox to be sufficiently roomy, runners with wider feet my find it a bit narrow.
Final Thoughts
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 is a plush daily trainer that strikes a sweet spot between cushioning and stability. From the first step, the Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a soft, responsive ride that makes long runs feel more comfortable and enjoyable. Unlike some max-cushioned shoes that can feel heavy or sluggish, the 1080v14 manages to feel light and springy while still giving plenty of protection underfoot. It’s the kind of shoe that makes logging easy miles or recovery runs feel effortless while still supporting longer or faster efforts when needed.
The v14 also benefits from a subtly updated midsole geometry, which improves stability and helps guide each stride smoothly, reducing fatigue on longer runs. The engineered mesh upper is breathable and secure, comfortably hugging the foot while accommodating different foot shapes. A roomy toe box combined with a supportive midfoot makes the shoe versatile enough for a variety of running styles. The upper could use a bit more durability in high-wear areas, but overall, the 1080v14 provides a balanced, reliable, and highly enjoyable running experience for anyone looking for a go-to daily trainer.
Specs:
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 10.7 oz
- Price: $165
- Category: Cushion
- Type: Road Running
- Fit: True To Size
- Ideal for: Recovery, Long Distance
Buy:
Women's | Men's
New Balance Hierro v9
The New Balance Hierro v9 is a trail-running shoe designed for rugged adventures. Featuring a Vibram MegaGrip outsole for superior traction and a Fresh Foam midsole for cushioning, this shoe is built to handle technical terrain with ease. The breathable upper ensures ventilation, while the reinforced toe cap provides added protection against rocks and debris. Whether you're exploring mountain trails or forest paths, the Hierro v9 is ready for the challenge.
A cushioned, breathable, and stylish trail shoe that excels on long non-technical runs but isn’t built for the steepest rocky descents.
First Impressions:
Wider toe box feel with a cushioned ride that wasn't too soft or hard and a nice breathable upper.
Comfortable shoe but size up as its almost a full size too short.
Things We Liked:
The upper is very breathable.
Comfort. Holy comfort for sure. Tread pattern is great.
Areas for Improvement:
Toe box and shoe lockdown on at least my foot were lacking and on steep technical downhills i slipped to the front of the shoe and had to keep my toes from slamming the front.
New Balance sizing has been all over for a few years so if that could be tightened up.
Final Thoughts
The New Balance Hierro v9 in green/black brings a plush, confident ride for long trail miles. Cushioning is generous and resilient, offering comfort that lasts through marathon-length efforts without ever feeling overly soft or unstable. The wide forefoot and roomy toe box add space for comfort, while the lug pattern grips well across dirt, gravel, and rolling terrain. The light green and black upper with a yellow sole also stands out, and the breathable, flexible knit material feels great mile after mile.
Where the Hierro v9 shows its best is on long-distance, non-technical trails. The soft, breathable upper and spacious toe box favor comfort, but they don’t provide the lockdown needed for extreme rocky descents, where forward slip can become noticeable. Still, for runners looking for cushioning, grip, and a stable feel over extended miles, this shoe shines as an everyday trail marathon companion.
Specs:
- Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 10.3 oz
- Price: $160
- Category: Cusion
- Type: Running Trail
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal for: Recovery, Long Distance, Trail
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Our Comprehensive Testing Process
To bring you this guide, our expert team, comprised of seasoned runners and footwear specialists, conducted extensive testing on a wide array of shoes. We are committed to providing reliable and unbiased recommendations based on real-world performance.
Each pair of shoes was subjected to a minimum of 20 miles of running across varied terrains, from city pavements to park trails. Our testers meticulously evaluated each shoe based on a set of key criteria to ensure a thorough and balanced assessment.
Key Evaluation Criteria:
- Comfort: We assessed the initial feel and long-run comfort, noting any pressure points or areas of discomfort.
- Fit: Testers evaluated how the shoe conformed to the foot, including the security of the heel, the width of the toebox, and the overall lockdown.
- Weight: We considered the physical weight of the shoe and how it felt during a run—whether it felt light and nimble or heavy and cumbersome.
- Breathability: The upper materials were tested for airflow to determine how well they managed heat and moisture during a run.
- Flexibility: We analyzed the shoe's flexibility in the forefoot and its overall ability to move naturally with the runner's stride.
- Overall Ride: This is a comprehensive assessment of the shoe's performance. It includes the quality of the cushioning, the smoothness of the heel-to-toe transition, and the general feeling of the shoe in motion.