Last Updated on November 1, 2022 by admin
If you’re the type of runner that likes to go the distance, investing in a pair of durable running shoes should be first on your running to-do list!All too often, running shoes can slow you down or cause you to stop mid-run, not to mention offering little to no support. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry, the right running shoes for you are out there, you just need to know where to look.The most durable running shoes will offer lightweight protection while ensuring you’re able to reach new limits and achieve new personal bests. They’ll be made to withstand heavy-use and be able to keep your feet protected and supported, no matter how long the run is, or how bumpy the terrain might get. But, how do you decipher a pair of durable running shoes from a regular pair of gym shoes? What features should durable running shoes have? Which pair will benefit me best? If you’ve found yourself asking these questions, you’ve clicked onto the right article.To help you make a choice, we’ve been busy hand-selecting the top 5 durable running shoes. Below, you’ll find a detailed review of each pair, as well as a buying guide to make sure you know everything there is to know about durable running shoes. Ready to find the newest addition to your shoe collection? Just keep reading.
In a hurry? Put a pep in your step with our top pick:
These durable running shoes from Reebok fit the bill and then some. They’re made with a tough, neoprene upper with hotmelt and faux leather overlays that create a rugged feel. For added traction, a rippled rubber outsole will keep you from slipping, whether that be on rainy streets or jogging on the treadmill. For added stability and durability, they zip-up under the laces.
Heres’ why we love them:
- The Die-cut EVA sock liner will keep your foot comfortable and supported, no matter how long the run is
- The rippled synthetic outsole is designed to offer fantastic grip, so you’ll be able to tackle all kinds of running terrains without fear of slipping
- Neoprene upper with hotmelt and faux leather overlays are rugged and longlastingTo instill confidence in each run, the graphite plate in the midsole adds stability
If you’re pinched for time and want to make a quick purchase, you won’t be disappointed with these Reebok runners. They’re built to last and will withstand heavy-duty, regular use without any compromise on performance. We highly recommend them.
Top 5 Most Durable Running Shoes
OUR TOP PICK
Reebok Sole Fury Trail Running Shoe
With a near-perfect rating on Amazon, the Reebok Sole Fury’s are a great choice for runners that have durability at the top of their wishlist. These synthetic sole runners are made of high-quality materials that can withstand even the most rigorous running routines. They feature neoprene uppers with hotmelt and synthetic overlays, so you can use these running sneakers for just indoor and outdoor running. The choice is yours.For added stability and convenience, the Sole Fury’s feature a zip-up front closure system beneath the laces, so you can take to the tracks with confidence, while the chunky heel and rippled sole provide excellent traction across slippery paths and wet-sodden roads, alike. Whether you’re a long-distance runner or like to explore new trails every weekend, the Sole Fury’s will help make your running goals a reality. They feature a die-cut EVA sock liner which will offer durable cushiony support, all the while preventing fatigue in the lower leg area and allowing you to save energy for those moments you need it most. For extra sturdiness, these tough running shoes feature a graphite plate midsole which adds stability, while the split EVA midsole design provides flexibility and will soak up the impact of each stride for a more enjoyable run free of any achiness.
Pros
- Durable and longlasting, with proper care they’ll last you for at least a year
- EVA technology incorporated into these running shoes to keep you feeling light and energized on your feet
- The cushiony and comfortable midsole will ensure that your feet stay supported throughout the run
Cons
- Some may find the outsoles to be too chunky
EDITORS CHOICE
Nike Men’s Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 Running Shoes
The Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2’s are another great option to consider. Not only are the materials used durable, but they’re also feather-light, so they’re great for long-distance runners.Offering lightweight breathability, the lofted mesh and synthetic upper found on the Pegasus Turbo 2’s is lighter than the uppers found on some of the older models. This means that no matter how hot the day is or how long the run is, your feet will remain fresh and cool thanks to the unparalleled breathable qualities of the upper.To enhance your personal running performance, a partial inner sleeve from toe to midfoot, combined with a more traditional fit from midfoot to heel is designed to help you train for longer and with more speed. It provides a cushiony, supportive feel that will provide exceptional energy return, so you’ll be able to run free from fatigue in your lower legs and feet.Delivering multi-surface grip, the Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2’s feature a rubber outsole which provides durable traction, so you can take to slippery roads and rainy trail paths, these runners will make sure you stay upright.
Pros
- Ideal for long-distance runners
- The rubber outsole is resilient and provides traction across different surfaces
- Durable and longlasting
Cons
- Expensive
BEST VALUE
Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 16 Road Running Shoe
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of durable running shoes that will help you unleash your speed potential, the search is over with the Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire, 16 Road Running Shoes.The Wave inspires 16 will give you an unbelievably stable ride that will help you get where you’re going, faster. Their impact-absorbing midsole and smooth ride support Wave technology bring an ideal balance of cushion and lightness to every step, along with a smooth transition that will prevent fatigue and offer great energy return. Made to last, they feature a durable rubber sole that will provide excellent multi-surface grip and be able to withstand heavy-duty use. The lightweight mesh will keep you light on your feet, providing total durability with less weight.An all-new upper features engineered mesh for a soft, breathable fit, with an internal toe cap for a sleeker look-and-feel. The updated heel collar is plush and form-fitting and has a better look ad feel than older models, while the non-stitched 3D logo adds a touch of style. Take your daily runs to the next level with the ultimate in performance and comfort.
Pros
- Rubber sole delivers stability and great grip
- Suitable for all kinds of running, including distance
- The mesh upper allows for a soft and breathable fit
Cons
- Higher price point
RUNNER UP
Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe
If you need a pair of neutral running shoes that also happen to be durable, you’re in luck with the Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe. Ideal for neutral runners that need a balance of flexibility and cushioning, the Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes feature a lightweight mesh upper that will keep the air flowing around your feet, as well as better regulating temperature to keep you nice and cool. The durable leather overlay is sturdy and tough and will make sure you feel surefooted across a variety of surfaces, all the while locking in your midfoot. The EVA sock liner provides soft, cushiony comfort, while the Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for ever greater durability and optimum energy return.In other words, this means that the Charged Assert 8’s will be able to lower the chances of fatigue occurring in your lower leg area, keep your feet and ankles supported, all the while offering the durability and stability you need to tackle new challenges.In particular, we love the solid rubber outsoles. They’re tough and strategically cover high impact zones to increase the durability of these runners, all the while providing great traction and grip thanks to the patterned grooves.
Pros
- Lightweight mesh upper for optimum breathability
- Molded foam within the midsole keeps your feet feeling supported and comfortable
- Durable leather overlays and rubber outsoles across high impact zones to increase service life
Cons
- Neutral, so not suitable for all types of runners
RUNNER UP
ALTRA Women’s Superior 4 Trail Running Shoe
Last but certainly not least, we’ve selected the ALTRA Women’s Superior 4 Trail Running Shoe, which is a new and updated version of the bestselling Superior running shoe.The ALTRA Superior 4’s are light, sleek, and durable. They feature a knit, wrap-around style upper to ensure total security, while the plush yet tough Altra Quantic midsole and MaxTrac rubber outsole ensure stability and grip across a variety of terrains.Made with Fit4Her Technology, the Superior 4’s have been made specifically to cater to the unique anatomy of the female foot. Therefore, the cushiony, customized sole will allow your toes to relax and spread out naturally for more comfort and stability, whether that be during uphill climbs, downhill descents, or flat out road running. The innovative Zero Drop Technology will naturally place your heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground to encourage proper, low-impact form throughout your trail run. This reduces fatigue and allows for greater energy return, so armed with the Super 4’s, you’ll find yourself running farther than ever before. A feature that we love is the hook-and-loop tab. It prevents debris from building up beneath the shoe so that they stay fresh and clean. Another feature that stands out to us is the Trailclaw canted lugs, they’re positioned strategically beneath the metatarsals to provide optimum traction at toe-off.
Pros
- The durable rubber sole is great for both indoor and outdoor use, particularly trail running
- Lace-up design for stability and security
- The lug sole pattern ensures maximum grip across multiple surfaces
- Made with the female foot in mind
Cons
- May not be suitable for runners with wide feet
Most Durable Running Shoes Buyers Guide
The quickest way to assess a shoe’s durability potential is to assess the upper, the midsole, and the outsole. Keep reading to learn more:
The Upper
One way to check for the lifespan of a pair of running shoes is to check the upper. Nowadays, many running shoes are made of lightweight materials such as mesh or synthetic overlays. Although, some of the running shoes designed for outdoor can also feature leather overlays, which makes them more resilient.
When you first try on your running shoes, you should make sure that your big toe doesn’t touch the spot where the mesh and toe-bumper meet. If they do, this can lead to a tear occurring, especially with regular use. However, some brands do incorporate additional fabric to help reinforce this area, while some other shoes skip lining totally and lean on an inner sleeve instead. It’s important to buy the right size and have a little bit of room in the front.
The Midsole
The next part to inspect is the midsole material. These days, most midsoles are made of either EVA cushioning or polyurethane. Polyurethane is generally considered to be the most durable midsole material choice. However, they are not as comfortable as EVA cushioning and have a lower energy return value, too.
Therefore, many runners prefer EVA midsoles for their supportive and comfortable properties, and ability to fight fatigue so that they can run for longer. The good thing is that many manufacturers who make durable running shoes are reinforced with midsole inserts or an additional lining, which increases the durability. If you’re ever in doubt about the durability of the midsole, a great way to assess is to check out customer reviews and see what they have to say about it.
The Outsole
When it comes to the outsole, rubber is the most durable (and common) material used. The last thing you want it to have a great upper and midsole, only to fall short with a cheaply made outsole.
We recommend hard rubber outsoles as opposed to softer rubber, as you’ll find that the shoes are able to better withstand wear and tear. Another great sign of durability is if the outsole is reinforced with additional rubber in high impact zones, as this will prevent the shoes from being worn down for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mesh shoes durable?
For the most part, yes, mesh shoes are durable. In fact, many of the shoes we picked in this article contain a mesh upper! Mesh running shoes are gaining popularity due to their lightweight properties and the ability to provide protection without weighing you down. You’ll find that many running shoes that feature a mesh upper are reinforced with rubber outsoles and sturdy midsoles.
How long should running shoes last?
This all depends on how often you plan on running, and how grueling the terrains are. In general, running experts have said that running shoes should be replaced anywhere between the 500 to 750-kilometer mark, which is roughly between 300 to 500 miles. So, let’s say you like to run 20 miles per week, this would mean that you would have to replace your running shoes at around the 6-month mark.
However, you might find that you need to replace them sooner or even later than that estimate. As you are purchasing durable running shoes, you might find that your running shoes will be able to make it to around the 600 miles mark before needing a spa0fd-20nt. If you notice that your feet start to feel achy during runs, this is a sign that the soles have been run down, and is an indicator that it’s time for a switch-up.
What are the most durable running shoes?
The list that we have supplied you with today are all worthy contenders of that title! The most durable running shoes consist of three components: a good upper, strong midsole, and a sturdy outsole.
If you’re unsure of which to go for, we highly recommend our top pick, the Reebok Sole Fury Trail Running Shoes. They’re unisex, feature a rippled outsole that provides exceptional grip across multiple surfaces, and a neoprene upper with hotmelt and faux leather overlays that are rugged and longlasting.