Best Running Shoes: NZ Buying Guide

To protect your feet and joints while you pound the pavement, it’s a good idea to choose your new brand based on your running style. Here are the top 10 brands to choose from:

Nike running shoes are for anyone from 5K newbies to marathon obsessives. Known for innovations like the ZoomX foam, their running shoes make you feel like you're bouncing on clouds. Are they pricey? Sometimes. But are they worth it? Just ask Eliud Kipchoge, who broke records in them. 

Browse all Nike running shoes.

Asics are like the comfort food of running shoes — steady, reliable, and oh-so-comfy. They're big on gel cushioning that makes asphalt feel softer than your pillow. While not the cheapest on the block, they’re a hit with marathon runners and everyday joggers who swear by their life-extending support for feet.

Shop all Asics running shoes.

Known for their sofa-like cushioning, a new pair of Brooks running shoes are perfect if you’re racking up serious mileage. Not the flashiest, but their loyal following doesn’t run for fashion. They're the go-to for many half-marathoners and full-marathon stars.

See all Brooks running shoes on Trade Me. 

Hoka is a speciality running shoe brand known for maximum cushioning and minimal weight. Loved by ultrarunners, this brand is perfect for long runs without feeling the road. The price is a bit up there, but your knees will thank you.

Browse all Hoka running shoes.

New Balance packs lots of tech into their running shoes but manages to keep them affordable. They're about precision fit and feel, with a line-up that caters to sprinters and marathoners alike. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of running shoes — ready for any challenge.

See all New Balance running shoe listings. 

Adidas running shoes are known to be fast. They're packed with Boost foam — ideal for those who like a quick and stylish tempo. The price reflects the tech, but Adidas loyalists wouldn’t trade them for the world. 

Shop Adidas running shoes. 

Puma's running shoes are the underdogs you shouldn’t ignore. They’ve been stepping up their game with lighter, faster shoes that make your runs feel breezy. Stylish, effective, and not too pricey, Puma running shoes are perfect for casual runners who also care about street cred.

Find your perfect pair of Puma running shoes.

Salomon is your trail boss. Rugged, ready, and ridiculously good at gripping muddy, rocky paths. Not the cheapest, but if you're running where the wild things are, these are your best buds. They’re like the 4x4 of running shoes.

See all Salomon running shoes available on Trade Me. 

Mizuno shoes come with a techy twist — Wave plates that spread out impact forces like butter on toast. They’re a bit of an engineer's dream and cater to those who geek out over gait analysis and biomechanics. Middle of the pack in price, top of the pack in innovation.

Browse all Mizuno running shoe listings.

Saucony is all about that perfect run feel. They blend old-school charm with new-school tech, making shoes that are fast, light, and oh-so-smooth. Whether you're just jogging or chasing a personal best, Saucony’s line-up offers something for every pace, without making your wallet weep.

Shop Saucony running shoes on Trade Me. 

Modern running shoes come with features that can enhance comfort, support, and performance. Here’s a breakdown of what you can get:

• Advanced materials: This can mean better cushioning technologies, such as gel or advanced foam, which provide improved shock absorption and can help reduce fatigue and injury risk.

• Innovative technologies: Some feature carbon fibre plates that increase propulsion and energy efficiency, which can be a game-changer for performance-focused runners.

• Specialised designs: Specific types of running, such as trail shoes with enhanced grip or racing shoes designed for speed. They might also provide better customisation to fit individual biomechanical needs, like shoes designed for overpronators or supinators.

Not necessarily. Fit and comfort are highly personal and subjective. It's important to try on different shoes and think about the type of running you do, your foot shape, and any previous injuries. Sometimes, mid-priced shoes can offer the perfect balance between cost and performance. If possible, we recommend trying on running shoes in person so you can feel what works best.

Remember, the perfect running shoe is like a good running mate — supportive, reliable, and makes every kilometre a little more enjoyable. So, jump on Trade Me, find your perfect pair and hit the ground running.