Best Running Shoes for Cushioned

The best running shoes for cushioned — curated based on real specs, reviews, and performance data.

Reviewed by Marcus Webb, Outdoor & Active Editor

The smoothest ride in running — nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v2 cushioning for buttery-soft daily miles.

Brand: Brooks • Price: $140 • Rating: 4.7/5

Weight: 10.1 oz (men's) Drop: 12mm Cushioning: DNA LOFT v2 (nitrogen-infused) Upper: 3D Fit Print mesh

The lightest max-cushion shoe — marshmallow-soft with a meta-rocker for effortless forward momentum.

Brand: HOKA • Price: $145 • Rating: 4.6/5

Weight: 8.9 oz (men's) Drop: 5mm Cushioning: Compression-molded EVA Geometry: Meta-Rocker

The plushest daily trainer — Fresh Foam X midsole delivers a cloud-like ride for long-distance comfort.

Brand: New Balance • Price: $160 • Rating: 4.7/5

Weight: 10.2 oz (men's) Drop: 6mm Cushioning: Fresh Foam X Upper: Hypoknit

The bounciest running shoe — On's CloudTec Phase cushioning creates a unique, trampoline-like ride.

Brand: On • Price: $170 • Rating: 4.5/5

Weight: 10.4 oz (men's) Drop: 6mm Cushioning: CloudTec Phase + Helion HF Plate: Speedboard