Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Men of 2025

William Weston Avatar
William Weston
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Cushioned running shoes are a must-have for men who prioritize comfort and support during their runs. Designed with advanced cushioning technology, these shoes provide optimal shock absorption, reducing the impact on joints and minimizing the risk of injuries. With their lightweight construction and breathable materials, these shoes offer a perfect blend of functionality and style. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, these cushioned running shoes are the ideal choice to enhance your performance and keep your feet comfortable mile after mile.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Brooks Ghost Max Running Shoe Cover #TOP 1
Brooks Ghost Max Running Shoe
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe Cover #TOP 2
Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe Cover #TOP 3
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Cushioned Running Shoes for Men

#TOP 1

Brooks Ghost Max Running Shoe

110406-174
Brooks Ghost Max Running Shoe Cover
Brooks Men’s Ghost Max Cushion Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut/White Sand/Chateau - 13 Medium

The Brooks Ghost Max is designed for both runners and walkers seeking maximum cushioning and protection. With its advanced DNA Loft v2 cushioning in the forefoot, you’ll experience reduced pressure underfoot, allowing for comfortable movement from your feet to your knees. The shoe features a broad base that provides stability, ensuring a secure fit without disrupting your natural stride. Additionally, the GlideRoll Rocker technology promotes smooth transitions from heel to toe, making your steps feel effortless. This combination of features helps minimize the risk of injuries while keeping you moving comfortably.

What We Like
Maximized cushioning
Stable and secure fit
Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
Reduces injury risk
#TOP 2

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe

3024590
Black/Black
Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe Cover
Under Armour Mens Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe, Black (002 Black, US

The Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe is a lightweight, breathable shoe that provides stability and comfort. The mesh upper with a 3-color digital print allows for complete breathability, while durable leather overlays lock in your midfoot for stability. The Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for ultimate responsiveness and durability, and the solid rubber outsole covers high impact zones for greater durability with less weight. This shoe is neutral for runners who need a balance of flexibility and cushioning, and features a standard tie lace type.

What We Like
Lightweight and breathable mesh upper
Durable leather overlays for stability
Charged Cushioning midsole for ultimate responsiveness and durability
#TOP 3

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe

1011B794-020
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe Cover
ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe, 9.5, Sheet Rock/Thunder Blue

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 offers a comfortable fit with its engineered knit upper, which gently wraps around your foot. It's also an environmentally friendly choice, as over 75% of the shoe's main upper material is made from recycled content, helping to reduce waste. The innovative sockliner is crafted using a dyeing process that conserves water and cuts down carbon emissions significantly. Additionally, the PureGEL technology provides lightweight cushioning for softer landings, making your runs more enjoyable and less taxing on your feet.

What We Like
Comfortable knit upper
Eco-friendly materials
Water-saving dyeing process
Lightweight cushioning
#TOP 4

NORTIV 8 ActiveBreeze Men's Sneakers

N245-AT2WS4AV07-AA48MG-900561626a149
Blue
NORTIV 8 ActiveBreeze Men's Sneakers Cover
NORTIV 8 Men's Running Walking Tennis Shoes ActiveBreeze Non-Slip Athletic Gym Workout Jogging Comfortable Cushioning Fashion Sneakers,Size 9.5,Blue,SNWS246M

The NORTIV 8 Men's Sneakers are designed for comfort and performance. The high-elastic EVA midsole cushions your feet, providing excellent shock absorption to reduce knee strain during your activities. A raised, curved midsole allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe, making each step feel natural. With a durable rubber outsole featuring a unique tread pattern, these sneakers offer impressive slip resistance, ensuring you stay stable on various surfaces. Additionally, the breathable upper and snug Lycra wrap enhance comfort, keeping your feet cool and secure throughout your day.

What We Like
Excellent shock absorption
Smooth heel-to-toe transition
Slip-resistant and durable
Breathable and comfortable fit
#TOP 5

Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe

110431 1D 020
Black/Black/Ebony
Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe Cover
Brooks Men's, Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe Black/Black/Ebony

The Brooks Ghost Max 2 is designed for runners and walkers who seek maximum cushioning and protection. With its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, you can enjoy a soft and smooth ride that feels gentle on your feet. The shoe's broad base provides stability, ensuring a secure fit that supports your natural stride. GlideRoll Rocker technology promotes seamless heel-to-toe transitions, making each step feel effortless. This combination of features not only enhances your comfort but also helps reduce the risk of injuries, whether you're running or walking.

What We Like
Maximized cushioning
Stable and secure fit
Smooth transitions
Reduces injury risk
#TOP 6

ASICS Gel-Excite 10 Running Shoes

1011B600.101
White/Sunrise Red
ASICS Gel-Excite 10 Running Shoes Cover
ASICS Men's Gel-Excite 10 Running Shoes, 13, White/Sunrise RED

The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 is designed for comfort and performance. Its engineered jacquard mesh upper enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool during runs. You’ll appreciate the AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning, which provides a plush feel with each footstrike, making long distances more enjoyable. The rearfoot GEL technology absorbs impact effectively, reducing strain on your feet. Additionally, the OrthoLite sockliner offers a soft and welcoming step-in experience, ensuring you feel great right from the start. Overall, these features work together to support a smoother and more comfortable run.

What We Like
Breathable mesh upper
Plush cushioning
Impact absorption
Soft step-in comfort
#TOP 7

ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes

1011B486/1011B488.024
Feather Grey/Birch
11.5
ASICS Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes Cover
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 11.5, Feather Grey/Birch

The ASICS Gel-Venture 9 is designed to enhance your running experience. Its breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, making long runs more enjoyable. The innovative sockliner uses a dyeing process that conserves water and reduces carbon emissions, allowing you to feel good about your purchase. With Rearfoot GEL technology, you’ll benefit from better impact absorption, softening the blow with every step. The AMPLIFOAM cushioning adds an extra layer of comfort, ensuring your feet feel supported during your runs. These features combine to create a shoe that meets the needs of every road runner.

What We Like
Breathable mesh upper
Eco-friendly dyeing process
Impact-absorbing technology
Enhanced cushioning
#TOP 8

ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes

1011B548/1011B685.002
Black/Sheet Rock
10.5
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes Cover
ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes, 10.5, Black/Sheet Rock

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 offers a range of features designed to enhance your running experience. Its engineered stretch knit upper increases breathability, keeping your feet cool during runs. The external back heel counter provides stability, ensuring your foot remains secure and comfortable with every stride. With the innovative 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, you can enjoy adaptive stability that promotes a balanced stride, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, the Rearfoot PureGEL technology offers lightweight cushioning for softer landings, making each step feel effortless. These features combine to create a supportive and comfortable running shoe.

What We Like
Improved breathability
Enhanced stability
Adaptive support
Soft cushioning
#TOP 9

New Balance Men's MMORCN4 Running Shoe

M_WMOREV4
New Balance Men's MMORCN4 Running Shoe Cover
New Balance Men's MMORCN4 Running Shoe, NB Navy/Cosmic Pineapple/Heritage Blue, 11

New Balance Men's Running Shoe is designed with a Fresh Foam X midsole for ultimate comfort. The engineered mesh upper provides zonal support and breathability, ensuring a comfortable fit. Data-informed outsole placement enhances traction for a better grip on various surfaces. The screen printed 3D N logo adds a stylish touch to the shoe. With a 185 mm heel stack, these road running shoes for men offer a cushioned experience, making them ideal for your running sessions.

What We Like
Ultimate comfort with Fresh Foam X midsole
Zonal support and breathability
Enhanced traction with data-informed outsole
#TOP 10

adidas Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 Sneakers

NLD99
Black/Grey/Black
adidas Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 Sneakers Cover
adidas Men's Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 Sneaker, Black/Grey/Black, 9

The adidas Lite Racer Sneakers are designed for style and comfort, making them a great choice for your daily activities. The adjustable laces ensure a snug fit, so you can feel secure while on the move. With a soft and flexible textile upper, these shoes provide a comfortable experience that adapts to your foot. The Cloudfoam midsole adds an extra layer of cushioning, offering excellent support with every step you take. Whether you're running errands or hitting the gym, these sneakers will keep your feet feeling great throughout the day.

What We Like
Stylish slip-on design
Snug and secure fit
Flexible and comfortable upper
Cushioned for comfort
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is cushioned shoes good for running?

A new study published in Scientific Reports suggests that running in those comfortable, highly cushioned shoes often marketed to prevent injury, might actually increase leg stiffness and lead to greater impact loading when your foot hits the pavement.

2. Is more cushioning better for running?

Despite popular belief, researchers from the Spaulding National Running Center determined that highly cushioned shoes are not linked to lower levels of impact than traditional running shoes. They found the opposite to be true.

3. What mens shoes have the most cushion?

Best Cushioned Running Shoes. Best For Uptempos: Hoka Mach 4.Best For Stability: Altra Paradigm 6.Best For Long Runs: Brooks Ghost 14.Best For Recovery Runs: Brooks Aurora-BL.Best For Racing: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38.Smoothest Ride: Asics Gel-Cumulus 22.Soft And Plush: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11.

4. What kind of cushioning is best for running?

Runners may prefer the comfort of thicker, softer foam underfoot when running long distances or multiday races. But super-soft cushioning isn't for everyone. Some don't like the squishiness feel. Moderate cushion: Shoes with moderate cushion strike a balance between pillow-soft comfort and thin or no cushion.

Editor's Notes

During our cushioned running shoes for men research, we found 48 cushioned running shoes for men products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 62,350 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cushioned running shoes for men list. We found that most customers choose cushioned running shoes for men with an average price of $55.48.

The cushioned running shoes for men are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cushioned running shoes for men, including Brooks, Under Armour, ASICS, NORTIV 8, New Balance. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 4,280 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
William Weston Avatar

William Weston was born in America and is currently a fashion industry designer. He's always been fascinated with the idea of taking something old and making it new again, so he decided to go into fashion design. William loves working on his designs and creating clothing that will make people look good while feeling comfortable at the same time.