{"id":16663,"date":"2026-08-22T13:55:03","date_gmt":"2026-08-22T13:55:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=16663"},"modified":"2026-08-22T13:55:03","modified_gmt":"2026-08-22T13:55:03","slug":"the-best-new-running-shoes-of-2026-so-far","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=16663","title":{"rendered":"The Best New Running Shoes of 2026\u2014So Far"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"justify-start\">\n<nav class=\"align-left col-span-full mb-base\" data-pom-e2e-test-id=\"breadcrumbs\"\/>\n<p>From major upgrades to classic trainers to high-tech trail shoes, these top road and trail models stand out from the rest this year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/p>\n<p class=\"fp-leadCaption py-tight text-left font-utility text-utility3-size leading-utility3-line-height text-secondary\">From ultra-cushioned supertrainers to high-performance trail models, these shoes lead the pack for road and trail runners in 2026. <!-- --> (Photo: Cory Smith, Dean Stattman)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<p>Published August 22, 2026 07:07AM<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table-of-contents relative box-border flex w-full flex-col items-start gap-y-tight border-t border-b border-border-light px-0 py-base-loose\">\n<h4 class=\"!p-0 font-bold text-brand-primary\">Best New Running Shoes of 2026 So Far<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<p>Each year, we run thousands of miles to test the best new running shoes on road and trail. We balance that field-testing with hours in the Outside Lab at CU Denver, scientifically testing shoes to determine how they score on things like abrasion, breathability, durability, and foam compression (here\u2019s more about exactly how we test running shoes).<\/p>\n<p>After testing dozens of shoes this year, we\u2019ve noticed a few key themes emerge: classic franchises getting the \u201cPro\u201d or \u201cPlus\u201d upgrade, price disruption from mid-tier or budget brands (like this Amazon running shoe we reviewed), and <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.trailrunnermag.com\/gear\/shoes\/best-trail-running-super-shoes\/\">trail runners getting the super shoe treatment<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you\u2019re shopping for fall race shoes or just ready to replace your worn-out trainers, these are the best running shoes we\u2019ve reviewed so far in 2026.<\/p>\n<h2>At a Glance: Best New Running Shoes of 2026<\/h2>\n<p><!-- --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"1\">Best New Road Running Shoes of 2026<\/h2>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"asics-superblast-3\">Asics Superblast 3: Even More Max Cush and Bounce<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Asics Superblast 3\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Asics-Superblast-3.png?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Asics-Superblast-3.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Asics-Superblast-3.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> This versatile shoe easily earns a spot in just about any runner\u2019s rotation, for everything from easy runs to uptempo long runs and even as a race-day marathon shoe for those who want abundant bounce and cushioning without an embedded plate (and aren\u2019t competing for the podium, as the stack exceeds World Athletics\u2019 competition height limit).<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/run.outsideonline.com\/gear\/road-shoes\/asics-superblast-3-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"adidas-hyperboost-edge\">Adidas Hyperboost Edge: The Supertrainer We\u2019ve Been Waiting For<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"A rear-angled close-up of the Adidas Hyperboost Edge running shoe resting on a stone ledge, highlighting the oversized white &quot;Hyperboost Pro&quot; foam midsole and the &quot;Hyperboost Edge&quot; branding on the heel.\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Adidas-Hyperboost-Edge.png?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Adidas-Hyperboost-Edge.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Adidas-Hyperboost-Edge.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> The Hyperboost Edge is ideal for anything from easy recovery runs to up-paced long runs for a broad segment of runners. It\u2019s a great option for beginners seeking a one-shoe-that-does-it-all supertrainer with a slightly firm, stable underfoot experience. Heavy runners who compress softer foams and want a midsole that won\u2019t buckle under their weight will find this a perfect match.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/run.outsideonline.com\/gear\/road-shoes\/adidas-hyperboost-edge-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"hoka-clifton-pro\">Hoka Clifton Pro: Did Hoka Just Kill the Clifton?<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hoka Clifton Pro Drops July 9\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/4-3.png?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/4-3.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/4-3.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> The Clifton Pro is for novice and intermediate runners who want stable cushioning without sacrificing fun and bounce. It\u2019s a perfect one-shoe option for these runners, because it\u2019s also very light, so it doesn\u2019t hold you back when you pick up the pace. We\u2019d also recommend the Clifton Pro to more experienced runners who want a shoe for easy recovery runs and long runs. And at $165, it\u2019s a steal.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/run.outsideonline.com\/gear\/road-shoes\/hoka-clifton-pro-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"altra-vanish-carbon-3\">Altra Carbon Vanish Carbon 3: An Altra Super Shoe More Runners Can Love<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Altra Vanish Carbon 3 super shoe being laced up before a race\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Altra-Vanish-Carbon-3-feature_h.jpg?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Altra-Vanish-Carbon-3-feature_h.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Altra-Vanish-Carbon-3-feature_h.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> Altra has historically been synonymous with zero drop, which put a hard ceiling on who would even try their shoes. But with a four-millimeter drop, the Vanish Carbon 3 delivers a versatile ride that competes with other top super shoes, and deserves the same attention as all the others. The wider forefoot also makes the stance more stable than most 40-millimeter platforms, making the Vanish Carbon 3 a forgiving option for runners who find most super shoes tippy.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/run.outsideonline.com\/gear\/road-shoes\/altra-carbon-vanish-carbon-3-review-an-altra-super-shoe-more-runners-can-love\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"nike-pegasus-plus-2\">Nike Pegasus Plus 2: Snappier, More Fun\u2014and Cheaper<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Nike Pegasus Plus 2 on a seawall\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nike-Pegasus-Plus-2.jpg?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nike-Pegasus-Plus-2.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/run-cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nike-Pegasus-Plus-2.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> At $170, $20 cheaper than the original, the Pegasus Plus 2 is an incredible value for the runner who wants more forefoot ground feel and connection, while providing some fun energy return. If you\u2019ve adapted to a lower-drop shoe, especially for faster running, think twice about getting the Pegasus. Higher drops are more ideal for heel strikers and runners with Achilles issues. That said, if you want a snappy, fun-feeling daily trainer with a high heel-toe drop, the Pegasus Plus 2 is about as good as you can get.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/run.outsideonline.com\/gear\/road-shoes\/nike-pegasus-plus-2-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<h2 id=\"2\">Best New Trail Running Shoes of 2026<\/h2>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"adidas-terrex-agravic-sl\">Adidas Terrex Agravic SL: Adidas Brings a Fan-Favorite Road Shoe to the Dirt<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Adidas Terrex Agravic S on hiking trail running shoe for rugged trail\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/adidas_agravic_sl_feature_s.jpg?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/adidas_agravic_sl_feature_s.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/adidas_agravic_sl_feature_s.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> Just like the EVO SL, the Terrex Agravic SL is a shoe that you can feel good about lacing up for just about any kind of run, from racing to recovery and most things in between. And, according to reviews, it seems to work well for most foot shapes. It\u2019s got comfort when you want it and pace when you need it\u2014all wrapped up in a clean, uncomplicated design that gets out of your way so you can enjoy running.<\/p>\n<p>Read the full review here.<\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"asics-metafuji-trail-2\">Asics Metafuji Trail 2: Asics Has Arrived in Trail Running<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Asics Metafuji Trail 2 \" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Asics-Metafuji-Trail-2-5.png?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Asics-Metafuji-Trail-2-5.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Asics-Metafuji-Trail-2-5.png?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> The Metafuji Trail 2 puts Asics on the map as a legitimate competitor for high-end trail racing. It\u2019s lightweight, locks the foot down well, and feels fast, especially on smooth trails. Given the fast-tuned ride, however, it\u2019s not really for beginners. It\u2019s a high-end model for short to ultra-long races, built for competitive runners gunning for every second, start to finish.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.trailrunnermag.com\/gear\/shoes\/asics-metafuji-trail-2-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<section id=\"\" class=\"content-card rounded-xl px-base-loose pt-base-loose pb-loose shadow-sm shadow-black\/10\">\n<h3 id=\"salomon-s-lab-genesis-2\">Salomon S\/Lab Genesis 2: An Elite Shoe for All<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Salomon S\/Lab Genesis 2 Running Shoe\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1100\" height=\"400\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" style=\"color:transparent\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/IMG_6266-scaled.jpg?width=1200&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 1x, https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/IMG_6266-scaled.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover 2x\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.trailrunnermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/IMG_6266-scaled.jpg?width=3840&amp;auto=webp&amp;quality=75&amp;fit=cover\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Who it\u2019s for:<\/strong> When I test shoes designed for elite athletes, I usually find that I have to steer beginners away. The S\/Lab Genesis 2 is the rare exception. Despite the S\/Lab name, indicating it\u2019s a cutting-edge design, this model works just as well as an everyday trail shoe as it does for racing. It\u2019s stable and adaptable enough to accommodate any runner\u2019s stride, and lively and agile enough to support the fastest racers. The only runner I\u2019d point elsewhere is someone after max cushioning. Otherwise, regardless of your ability, the S\/Lab Genesis 2 is a comfortable, stable, grippy shoe that handles a wide variety of terrain at all paces.<\/p>\n<p><a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_self\" class=\"article-content-link text-brand-primary underline hover:text-brand-primary\/85 break-words overflow-wrap-anywhere underline-offset-[3px]\" data-afl-p=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.trailrunnermag.com\/gear\/shoes\/salomon-s-lab-genesis-2-review\/\">Read the full review here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- --><\/section>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outsideonline.com\/outdoor-gear\/run\/best-new-running-shoes-2026\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From major upgrades to classic trainers to high-tech trail shoes, these top road and trail models stand out from the rest this year. From ultra-cushioned supertrainers to high-performance trail models, these shoes lead the pack for road and trail runners in 2026. (Photo: Cory Smith, Dean Stattman) Published August 22, 2026 07:07AM Best New Running<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16664,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[35],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16663","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-wild-living"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16663","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16663"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16663\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/16664"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16663"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16663"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16663"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}