Summer is the perfect time to pick up a running habit. The days are longer, providing you with both morning and evening options to shake out your legs. And of course, it’s the ideal time to start training for a fall race. If you’re looking to start training 16 weeks out for a marathon (the generally accepted amount of time to train), June is when anyone signed up for the Berlin or Chicago Marathons will start training. For those running New York City, your time is right on their heels. An intense training schedule calls for a new pair of shoes (or two).
If marathoning is not your thing, we understand. Summer’s still arguably one of the best times to start running. Whether you’re just looking to log a few extra miles each week or get back in the game after a slow spring start, here are the best new running shoes we can’t wait to test all summer long.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36
The Zoom Pegasus 36 is one of the many updated Nike sneakers this season. We loved the Pegasus 35 when we ran in it last year and can’t wait to test these out. The neutral yet stable-leaning sneaker has a few minor updates; more perforations along the upper keep your feet dry and fresh; a slimmer heel collar and tongue mean less padding in those areas and fewer potential hot spots.
Reigning Champ x Asics Gel-Kayano 25
We’re big fans of Reigning Champ’s collaborations, especially when they’re with running shoe brands we trust. You can wear the Asics Gel-Kayano 25 all day long without any problems, and if you need a bit of arch support, these kicks are your next pick. The sleek white, tan and navy upper mean you can wear this from your run to the soccer game to the sidelines.
Hoka One One Clifton 6
The sixth update to the beloved Hoka One One Clifton, this lightweight (just 9 ounces) yet densely cushioned shoe caters to the neutral runner. It’s comfortable from your first step in and the Meta-Rocker build will help you roll from heel to toe with every footstrike.
Altra Paradigm 4.5
This beast of a sneaker features plush cushioning for those days when you’re just too sore from running — or for days you don’t want to feel the ground. The Altra Paradigm 4.5 is a maximalist sneaker that’ll stand up to however many road miles you need to log, all with a breathable upper that’ll keep the breeze moving between your toes in the summer heat.
Adidas Ultraboost Pride Shoes
The Adidas Ultraboost shoes are some of the most popular running shoes available, and in June, Adidas dropped a beauty of a sneaker for pride month. It boasts all the same great features we already love in the Ultraboost 19, just with a super colorful upper. The Primeknit 360 upper is mostly white with a rainbow of colors along the heel and just above the midsole around the entire sneaker.
