How I chose the best cushioned running shoes for this list
When I test cushioned running shoes, Iâm looking for more than just softness underfoot, Iâm focused on comfort, durability, and how well they support daily training across a mix of easy runs, recovery miles, and longer efforts.
Every shoe featured here has been personally tested by me in real training sessions, so you can trust that the recommendations are based on experience.
I stay objective and independent with every review you read here or watch on my YouTube channel. My goal is to help you find the right cushioned shoe for your training â not just the latest model that's trending.
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What are cushioned running shoes for?
Cushioned running shoes are designed to absorb impact, reduce fatigue, and keep your legs feeling fresher across various types of training runs.
They're ideal for runners who want a more forgiving ride, whether you're heading out for easy daily miles, longer weekend runs, or active recovery days.
Unlike lightweight racing shoes that prioritize speed, cushioned trainers focus on comfort and shock absorption. They can be especially helpful if you're logging higher weekly mileage due to marathon training, coming back from injury, or simply prefer a softer feel underfoot.
Key features of cushioned running shoes:
Plush midsole foam: Often using lightweight, high-rebound materials like EVA blends or super foams that soften landings without feeling overly heavy.
Impact protection: Designed to minimize the jarring forces that build up over longer distances.
Comfortable fit: Uppers usually offer plenty of padding around the collars, heel and tongue, along with relatively breathable materials for all-season running.
Durability: Built to handle lots of mileage without the cushioning breaking down too quickly.
Reduced fatigue: Softer landings can help delay muscle soreness, especially during longer or slower runs.
Injury prevention: Extra cushioning can take pressure off joints, making them a good option for anyone prone to knee, hip, or lower back discomfort.
More enjoyable miles: If you find yourself dreading high-impact runs, cushioned shoes can make running feel smoother and less punishing.
If you're unsure which type of running shoe suits you best, a gait analysis at a specialty running store can give you more personalized insights based on your form and stride, OR, just let me know your situation in the comments and I'll reply with some top picks for you.
All weights listed in this roundup are based on my own size US(M)9 test pairs.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium to Wide | Weight: 10.3oz / 292g | Drop: 6mm
The On Cloudsurfer Max is Onâs latest max-cushioned daily trainer and a direct successor to the Cloudeclipse. It delivers a soft ride thanks to its double layer of CloudTec Phase cushioning and wide platform, making it ideal for long, easy miles or recovery days.
The upper sees small refinements, like a better-fitting tongue and flatter collar, while keeping the same roomy fit and step-in comfort. It runs a bit heavier than some alternatives, but offers a soft, protective ride that settles in nicely after a short break-in period. Great for runners who want comfort and stability without the need for speed.
Fit: True to size (medium to wide) | Weight: 8.9oz (252g) | Drop: 8mm
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a dependable daily trainer that blends responsive cushioning with a smooth, energetic feel underfoot. Its Energy Foam Evo midsole adapts well across a range of paces, making it just as capable for slow recovery runs as it is for quicker efforts.
With a lightweight design, roomy fit and breathable mesh upper, itâs a great option if you value comfort and versatility in your daily mileage shoe.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium (Wide version available) | Weight: 10.6oz (301g) | Drop: 8mm
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 refines what a max-cushioned daily trainer can be; plush, yet stable and surprisingly responsive. The reformulated FF Blast+ Eco midsole with PureGEL⢠cushioning delivers soft landings without the sluggish, âmarshmallowâ feel some max-cushioned shoes can have.
Itâs smooth, balanced, and keeps transitions feeling natural, helped by ASICS finally getting the heel bevel right.
With a wider base, the Nimbus 27 feels steady underfoot, making it a great choice for heel strikers or anyone seeking extra joint protection during longer runs. The ride feels controlled and consistent across paces, whether cruising recovery miles or stretching into long-distance efforts.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10oz (283g) | Drop: 6mm
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 is a cushioned daily trainer that offers a plush yet slightly more stable ride for easy miles and recovery days. Its Fresh Foam X midsole delivers reliable shock absorption, while a new midfoot geometry and heel rocker help create smooth transitions.
With improved outsole durability and a secure fit, itâs a great option for runners who want comfort without feeling too soft or unstable.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium with a good amount of volume | Weight: 10.9 oz (309g) | Drop: 5mm
The Hoka Bondi 9 is a soft, max-cushioned trainer built for easy runs, recovery miles, and long days on your feet. Its supercritical foam midsole and MetaRocker⢠geometry create a smooth, stable ride with excellent shock absorption, making it a top choice for high-mileage runners, walkers, and anyone craving serious underfoot comfort.
Fit: True to size, but roomy | Width: Medium-wide | Weight: 10.8oz / 306g | Drop: 6mm
The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is a max-cushioned daily trainer designed for comfort and brings support on easy runs and long walks. Its DNA Loft v3 foam delivers a soft, stable ride, while the improved mesh upper keeps things cooler and more breathable than before.
The fit is roomy, especially in the heel and forefoot, making it a strong option for wider feet or anyone who likes a bit more space. While itâs not built for speed, the Ghost Max 3 excels at providing smooth, reliable cushioning for steady, relaxed miles day after day.
The Altra FWD VIA 2 is a plush, max-cushioned road shoe built for comfort-first daily training, recovery runs, and marathon prep.
Its EGO⢠P35 midsole foam strikes a sweet balance between soft landings and stable transitions, making it a great choice for easy mileage and back-to-back long runs. The subtle rocker geometry supports a natural, efficient stride, and the wide platform feels confident even on tired legs.
Altraâs roomy toe box gives your toes space to splay, and the padded collars and reinforced mesh upper add to the all-around comfort. Breathability is limited, but thatâs actually a bonus during colder months.
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