If you are a runner, what is the best treat you can give to your feet? Definitely, a cushioned, comfy running shoe underneath your feet, during long tiresome runs, would be a nice relief for them. What if you feel like you are on a pillow ride in your run? Awesome, isn’t it? So, in order to treat your feet in a way such, you should certainly know about the cushioned running shoes. Confused about what they are? Take it easy, because we are here to help you get to know everything about them! And why not? Let us also get to know about the best-cushioned running shoes in 2020.
What are Cushioned Running Shoes?
The main concept behind cushioned running shoes is to provide a soft feel for the underfoot when we wear them. The cushion resides in the midsole of the shoe, which means the region between the midsole and the upper of the shoe. The history of the cushioned shoe runs back to the 1960s, and it is also believed that the University of Oregon, played a significant role in introducing many new improvements in the modern running shoe as such. Generally, the cushion consists of one or two types of foam. Athletic footwear manufacturing companies use different foams with varying features to produce their signature running shoe brands. The features and capabilities of running shoes vary with the foam embedded in their midsole. However, if we consider the cushioned running shoes or else ‘maximalist’ shoes, they have ultra-cushioning in them.
Main Benefits of Cushioned Running Shoes
The main objective of cushioning of the running shoes is to provide a comforting sensation to the runners who wear them. However, the use of cushioning is not only for providing comfort but also to reduce the impact directed upon the athletes’ feet to minimize the injuries.
Cushioned Running Shoes: Are there Any Risks?
Everything feels better up to a certain extent. When consumed more than enough, anything can cause adverse effects. So as the cushioned running shoes.
It is mostly the ultra runners who seek the comfort of cushioned running shoes. To run longer miles, they use long-distance running shoes and most of them are maximalist running shoes. When increasing your mileage, you go for more cushioning to ease the aches and pains from running. But the studies say that there can be defects in running longer miles in maximalist shoes. Simply in highly cushioned shoes, our feet function as shock absorbers, just like a spring, but not in the proper way as it should by balancing the impact. This can be harmful to either joints, bones, or muscles of our body. Therefore we should use cushioned running shoes with care and proper knowledge.
Best Cushioned Running Shoes in the Global Market
The statistics of athletic footwear market share changes with the addition of new technologies and features of running shoes with the sales rates. The cushioned running shoes have started to get popular with the trend of athletes seeking comfort for their feet. Mostly it is the eminent, best-running shoe brands and companies in the world who manufacture the cushioned running shoes. Therefore let’s get an insight into the best cushioned running shoes in the global market.
1. HOKA Bondi
HOKA Bondi is among best selling cushioned running shoes all over the world. It is from the renowned HOKA ONE ONE which is an athletic footwear company from France. It is a popular brand among the runners thus, famous for providing the best athletic footwear. According to some athletic footwear testers, Bondi 6 is the most cushioned running shoe around. According to viewers, It also works for runners on the pavement, walkers in town, or hospital workers who spend all day on their feet.
So, let’s get to know about HOKA Bondi which is specifically for the runners who seek maximum comfort from their foot gears.
Features of HOKA Bondi
Below are the main features of the HOKA Bondi that make it stand out of the rest.
Upper – The upper of the shoe consists of an engineered mesh. The mesh enhances the fit and provides support to the runner’s feet. Especially it provides more support in the ankle area of the runner. It contributes to providing higher breathability to the shoe even in hot climates. The shoe’s upper consists of TPU, Thermoplastic Polyurethane. TPU is highly elastic, and it has resistance to oil, grease, and abrasions.
Outsole – The outsole consists of durable rubber, thus it makes the shoe lightweight. The runner can withstand wet as well as dry environments. The HOKA Bondi can retain without getting worn off even after hundreds of high mileage training.
Fit – Fits true to the size.
Toe Box – A slightly wider toe box with room for movements of the forearm.
Heel – A slightly beveled heel.
The collar of the Shoe – The collar is soft and comfortable to the feet.
Midsole – Midsole is consists of EVA foam and it offers a high cushion-to-weight ratio to the shoe. The midsole is soft yet it is firm enough to keep the rigidness of the shoe. It does not compress but stays firm to provide the accurate bouncy nature of the shoe.
Ride – HOKA BONDI is best for runners who seek moderate speed from the running shoes because it is not a running shoe which boosts your maximum efforts. Therefore it is best for long paced runs but not for short distance fast running. It provides you comfort in long runs but does not boost the cadence needed for short distance runs. In addition, it is best for runners to use in recovery runs.
Drawbacks of HOKA Bondi
Due to the girth and amount of midsole cushioning we cannot name it as a lightweight shoe.
Bottom Line
Undoubtedly HOKA BONDI is one of the best-cushioned shoes available in the market which gives you a plush ride with a touch of comfort.
2. Brooks Glycerin 18
If you want to hit the tracks with plush comfort and run for longer miles, Brooks Glycerin 18 is perfect for you. It is one of the best selling cushions running shoes in the running shoe market. Brooks Glycerin 18 is an everyday trainer. It is famous for having plush comfort with an adaptive cushioned interior.
Features of Brooks Glycerin 18
So let’s have a look at the features of Brooks Glycerin 18.
Ride – Provides a soft ride with responsiveness. The terrain of the shoe is roads, tracks, or even the gyms. Wherever you feel like it would fit on!
Midsole – DNA Loft midsole is in the Brooks Glycerin 18. The DNA Loft foam is very soft and provides comfort for your feet in longer runs.
Upper – A mesh upper is there on the Brooks Glycerin 18. There are 3D printed overlays in the upper. It makes the mesh upper adaptable to the feet. It is compatible with a wide range of foot types. In addition the upper is breathable.
Size – Available in many sizes and fits true to the size.
Offset – 10mm heel-toe drop is there on Brooks Glycerin 18
Outsole – There are flex grooves in the outsole. The grooves make the transition from the back to the front of the foot comfortable without even making the runner aware of it. So the shoe gives smooth transitions.
Drawbacks of Brooks Glycerin 18
The runners with narrow feet have some trouble with fitting.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a plush ride with elegance and comfort indeed, Brooks Glycerin 18 is there for you!
3. Nike React Infinity Run
If you are looking for a shoe to run fearlessly without fearing for injuries you should head out for a Nike React Infinity Run. It provides a comfortable feeling to the runners who run long miles and protects them from injuries. Nike React Infinity Run is fit for road running, gyms and to run on tracks. Indeed the shoe has many terrains.
During the Nike React Infinity Run review, Fleet Feet testers said they loved the soft, springy feeling provided by the React midsole. In addition, there is a wide base to mitigate any side-to-side wobbling and the rocker shape is the other outstanding feature. Accordingly, Nike carved the Foam into a curved shape for smooth heel-to-toe transitions during every delivered time.
Features of Nike React Infinity Run
Below are the most significant features of the Nike React Infinity Run
Upper – The Nike React Infinity Run has a Flyknit technology engineered upper named Flyknit Loft. There are three layers of breathable mesh in the upper. So it keeps your feet ventilated throughout the ride.
Midsole – The React Foam is used in the midsole of the shoe. It is durable and can withstand for years amidst long runs. The heel drop of the midsole is 9mm.
Ride – A fast ride with protection from possible long injuries to the feet. Provide support for the runner in the ride. In the first phase of the run, the taking-off provides flexibility. In the midstance, the Nike React Infinity Run provides a smooth ride. At the last phase when feet contact the ground the comfort is felt by the feet from the cushiony nature.
Shape – the shape of the shoe is made compatible with the stride of the runner. Has a wide base than the previous shoes of Nike. Ensures the stability of the runner in every strike. Provides higher energy return with minimum impact on the feet.
Outsole -The outsole is of Carbon rubber and exposed React foam.
Drawbacks of Nike React Infinity Run
The price is high when compared with contemporary shoes of the same category.
Bottom Line
Overall, we can say, for a fearless ride with confidence, try on Nike React Infinity Run and see the difference by yourself.
4. Karhu Synchron 2020
Looking for a plush ride with fewer compromises; If so, the Karhu Synchron 2020 is there for you. It is a neutral trainer that can be used as an everyday trainer. The terrain of the shoe is roads and tracks.
Features of Karhu Synchron 2020
Below are the most significant features of the Karhu Synchron 2020.
Upper – Knit upper is there in the Karhu Synchron 2020.
Toe Box – There is a spacious toe box for the spontaneous movements of the forefoot.
Lacing System – The lacing system is asymmetrical yet it is a significant, stable fit to the feet.
Midsole – AeroFoam Nova midsole is there in Karhu Synchron 2020. It is a liquid-based foam. The AaeroFoam provides a plush ride with maximum comfort to the feet. The AeroFoam is combined with Fulcrum technology to offer a smooth transition in the ride.
Size – Fits true to the size. Provides a comfortable fit for the runner. The Karhu Synchron 2020 is known for its smooth ride. The midfoot locks down tightly with the M-lock lacing system.
Ride – Efficient transition in the ride with less impact to the feet. Ther is a heel-toe drop of 8mm.
Speed – The shoe is rigid due to the fulcrum technology and provides a great speed to the runner.
Stability – The shoe provides a quality amount of stability to the runners.
Drawbacks of Karhu Synchron 2020
The shoe weighs slightly higher than the other cushioned running shoes in the athletic footwear market.
Bottom Line
What we can recommend to you is, run your high miles in a Karhu Synchron 2020 for a plush ride hand in hand with comfort. Go see it for yourself.
5. Saucony Triumph 17
For a first-class long run with comfort, you have to try Saucony Triumph 17. It is one of the top-selling running shoes in the athletic footwear market. According to the details, the Saucony Triumph 17 is the most cushioned running shoe in the Saucony lineup. The terrain of the shoe is on roads, treadmill, and light rails. Moreover, these can be worn for full marathons and easy paced runs.
Features of Saucony Triumph 17
Below are the most highlighting features of the Saucony Triumph 17.
Upper – the shoe has an engineered upper to provide stretchiness and free natural, free movements of the forefoot.
Toe Box – The box is of ample size for the runners to move and flex their forefoot.
Midsole – The midsole is made from PWRRUN+. It is a lightweight foam and provides a bouncy, springy nature to the shoe. The maximum cushioning provides a reinforced feeling to the runner’s feet. It is comfortable yet surprisingly rigid to provide the stability to the feet. It provides responsiveness to the runner in the ride.
Ride – The runners do not notice the heel-to-toe transition during the ride due to the smoothness of it. Powerful take-offs can be done and in addition, softer landings are even possible. When your feet flex the shoe flexes, enhancing the natural movement of the feet.
Heel collar – There is a soft heel collar. Therefore, the uncomfortable nature occurring from rubbing is not to be seen in Saucony Triumph 17.
Fit– A secure fit to the feet from every side of the shoe. The shoe fits true to the size.
Heel – The heel of the Saucony Triumph 17 stands out as it contributes to providing a comfortable plush ride to the runners. It gives a smooth heel-toe transition.
Outsole – The outsole is made from Translucent ‘Crystal’ rubber and Carbon rubber.
Bottom Line
Saucony Triumph 17 is renowned for its elegance and a smoother ride. Thus, you can go on them for a ride with plush and comfort.
6. Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit3
Searching for a running shoe to run with ease and comfort? Here is an option for you, the Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3. So let’s get to know about the top-selling Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3.
Features of Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit3
Below you can find the main significance of the Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3.
Upper – The upper is made from AIRmesh. It is a soft and smooth upper material that provides comfort and a friendly sensation to the skin. The AIRmesh is made from a lightweight fabric, and it results in instant airflow via the pores on its surface. Despite breathability, the AIRmesh offers flexibility as it provides a way for spontaneous movements because of its ability to stretch. The design of the upper can continually adapt to the shape and movement of the foot.
Midsole – The midsole contains XPOP foam and a collection of other technologies, They all contribute to providing higher responsiveness and a smooth transition.
Size – The Mizuno Sky Waveknit 3 accommodates runners with low to medium foot volumes. Thus it offers a wide range of sizes to suit various foot sizes. It is available in medium width for both the men’s and women’s versions and it goes with numerous foot shapes.
WaveKnit – This shoe has Waveknit technology in the upper, which is famous for its sock-like fit. The material in the upper provides a soft sensation along with a dynamic stretch. The Waveknit pairs with AIRmesh for optimum breathability and airflow inside the shoe.
Outsole – The outsole has a trusty carbon rubber thus ensuring durability. Specifically at the heel and forefoot regions. The rubber in the outsole handles traction efficiently and smoothly, even the runner is not aware of the transition phases. The outsole supports the natural movements of the feet and provides flexibility. The outsole has a feature embedded in it known as the intercooler. It effectively prevents creating and collecting heat and sweat inside the shoe, thus keeping the runner cool and dry throughout the ride.
Drawbacks of Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit3
The shoe is of a relatively higher price than the concurrent maximum-cushioned running shoes in the market.
Bottom Line
The shoe provides excellent arch support to the runners. Meanwhile, the Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3 comes in many stylish appearances, thus giving a range of options for buyers to choose from. The shoe has fame for its comfortability, reliability of track, and durability. Simply it is worth it to give it a try. So, try on Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3 to run high miles hand in hand with plush and comfort.
7. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10
Want a ride on the newest, dapper-looking trendsetter on the track? If so, get to know about the top-selling, New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10.
Features New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10
Here are some of the main features of New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10.
Outsole – The New Balance 1080v10 has a rubber outsole that can last long, amidst high mileages.
Interior – Ortholite cushion insert design is used for enhancing comfort while controlling moisture and sweat in the interior of the shoe.
Upper – The upper is made from an engineered synthetic mesh. Indeed the upper is supportive and comfortable.
Fit – Fits true to the size. The sock-like knit upper fits to the feet without hindering the free movements of the forefeet.
Midsole – Midsole is made from Fresh Form X. It is a full length, full foam midsole. Fresh Foam X contributes to providing a stable and comfy ride for the runner.
Ride – The shoe provides a responsive and comfortable ride. Fresh Foam is slightly firm when compared with other midsole materials therefore the ride is comfortable yet stable. With the distinct and rocking shape, the New Balance 1080v10 lets you run faster.
Lightweight – New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10 is relatively lightweight than other maximum cushioned shoes. Indeed it is lighter than the predecessor cushioned shoes of the same brand.
Heel – The heel of New Balance 1080v10 protects the Achilles of your feet. Blistering, painful rubbing of feet against the shoe is not there for New Balance 1080v10 users. The heel of the shoe is supportive and it holds the rear feet in place, eliminating the slipperiness of the shoe.
Drawbacks of New Balance 1080v10
New Balance 1080v10 has got a series of drawbacks when compared with the rest of the cushioned running shoes. Some of them are as follows.
Rigid – Runners looking for soft cushioning might feel the Fresh Foam X cushioning to be rigid.
Inadequate Toe Box Space – The toebox is constrictive and it might take time to stretch out to accommodate a wider forefoot runner. This might make the first few runs in New Balance 1080v10 to be slightly excruciating.
High Price – Price can be a decisive factor in New Balance 1080v10 and lead to a conflict of interest. As the shoe costs higher when compared with other corresponding shoes in the market.
Bottom Line
Any runner can use it despite the fact being a professional runner, beginner to running, or a fitness enthusiast. The shoe fits most for neutral runners who are seeking protection, responsiveness, and comfort in the ride. So, run on New Balance 1080v10 to perceive the cutting edge glamour enriched with comfort.
8. Altra Paradigm 4.5
Need a shoe to guide you when you are overwhelmed on the track? If so, Altra Paradigm 4.5 is a good fit for you. It is one of the best selling and highly recommended shoe from runners all over the world.
Features of Altra Paradigm 4.5
Let’s get to know the features in Altra Paradigm 4.5.
Upper – The upper consists of an engineered knit.
Toe Box – The toe box is more shaped to be compatible with the shape of the foot. Simply it mimics the shape of your foot. Therefore it encourages the natural movement of the forefeet.
Midsole – Altra Ego midsole provides comfortability to the feet. The Altra Ego compound works fine even in high temperatures. The performance of the midsole remains the same despite the weather conditions.
Balanced Cushioning – The cushioning from heel to toes is the same amount therefore the foot stays on a flat surface. Therefore the heel-toe drop is 0mm. This feature helps to maintain a low impact on the feet. In addition, this 0mm drop foot shape encourages an upright posture of your feet and promotes natural body movements.
STABILIPOD– The shoe acts as a stabilized tripod by enhancing the natural stabilizing regions in the feet thus preventing pronation and foot collapsing.
GuideRail – A feature on dynamic support shoes to guide runners only when they need it.
Outsole – The outsole is made from FootPod technology.
Bottom Line
Undoubtedly Altra Paradigm 4.5 is one of the top-selling cushioned running shoes out there. So run on them to lengthen your track miles with rewarding comfort.
9. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22
If you are a high mileage runner ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is the best option for you because it is a maximalist shoe out there for runners who seek comfort and responsiveness in the ride. Let’s get to know about the top-selling, ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22.
Features of ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22
Here are the most significant features of the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22.
Upper – The upper is very lightweight. The upper has an engineered mesh and it allows your feet to experience improved breathability. Thus the mesh is multi-directional. It contributes to providing a supportive and adaptable fit for the feet.
Outsole – The outsole has AHAR and it is durable. AHAR is a high abrasion rubber and the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is in critical areas of the outsole to enhance durability.
Midsole – FlyteFoam Lyte is the technology for manufacturing the midsole. This foam combination provides responsiveness and comfort for the runners’ feet. Help to keep up the energy in the ride. The maximum amount of foam in the midsole reduces the harsh impact on the feet during the ride.
Type of the shoe – The GEL-Nimbus 22 is best for runners who underpronate. In addition, it fits for neutral runners.
Guidance Trusstic System Technology – This technology provides more stability to the shoe while increasing the durability of the shoes. Meanwhile, the strength of the shoe is increased and makes the shoe lightweight.
Size – the shoe has a reputation for being true to the size.
Cushioning – ASICS has GEL cushioning packets that contain silicone for runners to experience a more responsive ride. They provide excellent shock absorption. These packets work to provide protection for the runner’s feet by handling impact despite the way the feet strike the ground.
Ride – The terrain of the shoe is mainly roads.
Drawbacks of ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is relatively heavier than the contemporary top-selling shoes of this maximalist category.
Bottom Line
If you want to run long with less distress ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is a good pick for you. Run on an ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 to feel the comfort that comes with elegance.
10. On Cloudstratus
Another good option for long-distance runners out there to have a touch of comfort in their ride. On Cloudstratus is among the renowned cushioned running shoes available in the athletic footwear market. So here is an analysis of the pros and cons of the famous, top-selling On Claudstratus.
Features of On Cloudstratus
To have a better overview let us first have a look at the features of the On Cloudstratus.
Stability Running Shoe – It is best for runners who overpronate. The shoe provides a firm feel for the runners to keep up their stability and balance. For runners who overpronate the wearing off of the shoes is often higher. The stability running shoes have maximum cushioning and
Forefoot – The Cloudelements in the forefoot provide a strong push-off to the runners.
Midsole – Maximum- cushioned midsole with Helion foam.
Outsole – There is a dual-layer CloudTec outsole. Varied traction patterns in the outsole provide the right amount of traction despite the fact if it is the tracks or roads.
Helion Foam – Helion is the foam in the cushioning and it provides protection and a fine amount of energy return with a handful of responsiveness. In addition, it is resistant to temperature changes.
Upper – Provide comfort to the feet of the runner. The mesh upper is anatomically engineered. It is asymmetrical. The asymmetrical shape makes room for more convenience in the motion of the foot. Even though the mesh upper is soft, it is strong. It provides breathability and regulates the airflow. Which means you have a cool feeling to your feet throughout the ride. The mesh upper contributes to providing a secure fit to your feet. When your feet flex, On Cloudstratus flexes, thus aiding the spontaneous movements of your feet.
Double layers of CloudTec -The dual CloudTec layers offer more foam, therefore more performance and support. Which means longer miles on the track. The Cloudstratus delivers maximum cushioning but maintains responsiveness.
Star lacing system – The lacing system is unique. Thus it provides you many options to customize your fit in a pattern you like.
Bottom Line
There are no specific drawbacks noticeable in On Cloudstratus, it is all about how you feel when you run on it. The extra cushioning provides you support without stifling your speed on the track. This is a good choice in the maximalist running shoe market. Because, if you are on an On Cloudstratus, you’ll want to run twice as far as it feels like running on the clouds. So, go grab your pair and feel it.
How We Selected the Best Cushioned Running Shoes?
Yes, there are various brands out there. So how to pick the best from the rest? This is really confusing. And in order to help you clear this confusion, we hunted for the most reliable and accurate data. Accordingly, we collected wear testing data. Moreover, the interviews with shoe designers and professional athletes, fit id-data, and reviews from customers helped in bringing you this full overview. After all, considering all these data sources, we selected the best cushioned running shoes in 2020.
Conclusion
Certainly, many have started running owing to its amazing benefits. In an era as such, the majority are interested in choosing the perfect running shoes that suit them the best. Hence, let us remind you that it is essential to gather information on features, technologies, and audience of a specific shoe type before buying or using it. Meanwhile, if you are an absolute beginner who started running very recently, there is a lot that you need to know. If so, do not forget to get an insight into the best beginners’ running shoes. Likewise, choosing the perfect match for your feet is never an easy task.
So, we believe that this insight would help you get the maximum out of a shoe that you use. Meanwhile, it would diminish the harm and injuries due to the use of incorrect, mismatching shoe types. Because at the end of the day, what matters the most is, providing the best for your feet. Indeed, a fine shoe is a perfect treat for your feet. So, make sure that you make the right choice at the right time!
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