The best running shoes to turn you into a PT stud

The Saucony Mad River TR blurs the line between road shoes and trail shoes so you can train wherever you want. The carefully designed tread provides the grip you need to run on loose surfaces, but it doesn’t go overboard. That makes this running shoe just as appropriate on the sidewalk as a backcountry trail. Multiple layers of different materials form the sole to provide cushioning and stability where you need each most. Waterproof protection around the toes helps the inside stay dry, while breathable mesh elsewhere keeps temperatures down. The tongue is integrated into the shoe’s upper to prevent dirt and debris from making its way inside. Take advantage of two rows of eyelets to set up your laces however you want. This high-performance running shoe is so versatile that it’s hard to imagine a situation where it wouldn’t excel.

Sometimes less is more, and that philosophy certainly applies to the classically-inspired New Balance Trackster. This retro running shoe is perfect for shedding seconds off a timed event while looking like the runners who pioneered the sport decades ago. The thin sole achieves stability by keeping your foot close to the ground. Breathable mesh panels keep temperatures down while the simple tread provides traction on and off pavement. It might be too minimalist for runners who prefer the most modern features, but it’s certainly got style and a track record of success. If you’re not fast in these, you know the shoe isn’t the problem.

Trail runners looking for a shoe that can tackle the harshest conditions don’t need to look any further than the Salomon Speedcross 5. This beefy trail running shoe starts with a tread pattern so aggressive that it’s just shy of cleats. Those chunky rubber lugs dig into mud, sand, and loose surfaces to provide solid footing on the shakiest ground. Generous waterproof panels on the upper keep the inside dry long after other shoes would be soaked through. A unique lacing system reduces weight and stays clean compared to traditional laces. This running shoe is so tough that we wouldn’t hesitate to wear it on light hikes, too. If you like your running with a dash of adventure, it’s clearly the one to have.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 does a great job of taking the sting out of those early-morning formation runs. It’s an all-round performer that offers corrective support for runners whose ankles experience overpronation. Ample cushioning in the sole provides shock absorption that can keep your body feeling fresh longer. Structural guide rails are built into this shoe to stabilize your feet in order to protect your knees. The 3D-printed upper creates a natural shape that conforms to your foot more effectively than traditional shoes. There’s also a starts-and-stripes color option that we can’t promise will make you faster, but we’re pretty sure. It isn’t the lightest or most robust shoe on our list, but it could very well be the best option for runners who struggle with pain and joint fatigue.

If you spend much time running your local roads and sidewalks, you’ve probably seen the Asics GT-2000 9 more than a few times. This tried-and-true road running shoe combines high-quality materials and proven design elements in a package that can go the distance. Gel cushioning in the sole insulates your foot from impact during the most jarring points of your stride: landing and toe-off. Unique foam composition enhances this effect, while remaining stable long after athletic shoes would permanently compress and need to be replaced. Carefully designed support structures help your foot remain in the optimal position for a more efficient stride. If you plan on doing long-distance runs to improve your endurance, this running shoe deserves serious consideration.

The plush Nike React rides like a Caddillac to deliver a stable, comfortable shoe for runners trying to take the discomfort out of their PT routine. The sole is thicker than what most running shoes offer, resulting in enhanced cushioning and comfort. It’s also noticeably wider. That width provides a solid platform that can take some stress off the stabilizing muscles around your ankles and knees. The curved shape mimics the path your foot takes in each stride to facilitate a natural gait. This shoe’s upper takes a minimalist approach. Breathable materials and fewer eyelets keep your feet cool and reduce pressure points. This isn’t the speed demon of the group; it’s meant to make running more accessible and comfortable. The first step is the most important one, so lace up a pair of these and make it happen.

If you’ve ever raised your hand when asked “Does anybody want to go fast?” then you need to check out the Under Armour Micro G Pursuit. To be fair, we doubt you’ll be allowed to lace up a pair of these for a PFT, but they can absolutely make you a more developed runner. Augmenting your training program with sprint workouts can increase strength, improve your body’s response to high intensity output, and turn hills into passing zones on longer runs. These track spikes are like drag radials for your feet. Screw-in metal cleats bite into track surfaces for a solid launch with each step, but they shouldn’t be used anywhere else. At only a few ounces, these are ready to race and will absolutely get you amped up for sprint repeats at the base track.