Choosing the right shoes is crucial whether walking, running, or standing all day. As a foot and ankle specialist, I’ve tested five of the most comfortable shoes on the market to help you understand how cushioning, fit, and performance can impact your experience. From the plush Brooks Glycerin Max to the faster On Cloudmonster 2, these shoes offer unique benefits for different needs. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Brooks Glycerin Max
The Brooks Glycerin Max is one of the most cushioned shoes available. With 45mm of cushioning in the rearfoot and 39mm in the forefoot, it provides a 6mm heel-to-toe drop. The shoe features Brooks’ innovative DNA-Tuned nitrogen-infused cushioning, offering a lightweight and responsive feel.
- Cushioning and Performance: Compared to other plush shoes like the New Balance 1080, the Glycerin Max gives you some energy return, making it ideal for longer, slower miles or walking all day. It’s not built for fast-tempo runs, but it’s great for metatarsalgia and Morton’s neuroma as it absorbs forefoot vibration effectively.
- Fit: The Glycerin Max fits true to size, with plenty of space in the toe box. However, it currently doesn’t come in wide versions. The non-gusseted tongue can move slightly but locks down well with the laces. The moderately stiff heel counter adds some stability but may not suit those with a history of peroneal tendonitis or posterior tibial tendonitis.
Best for: Long-distance running, walking, standing all day, and people with forefoot conditions like Morton’s neuroma.
2. ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is one of ASICS’ most stable shoes, making it ideal for overpronators and those who need extra support. It features the 4D Guidance System, which includes a wide base of support, sole flare, and medial arch support.
- Cushioning and Performance: With plush cushioning, the Gel-Kayano 31 provides excellent comfort for long-distance runs and walking. It offers moderate energy return but excels in keeping your foot centered and reducing pronation forces, making it a top pick for conditions like posterior tibial tendonitis.
- Fit: The Kayano has a spacious toebox and comes in both wide and extra-wide versions. The gusseted tongue and padded heel counter create a snug, comfortable fit. The shoe locks your foot in well, providing a “sock-like” feel.
Best for: Stability, long-distance running, walking, standing all day, and overpronation.
3. ASICS Novablast 4
The ASICS Novablast 4 is perfect for those looking for a versatile shoe that can handle both uptempo runs and day-to-day activities. It features 41.5mm of cushioning in the heel and 33.5mm in the forefoot, offering a 8mm drop.
- Cushioning and Performance: The Novablast 4 is responsive and lightweight, making it ideal for faster-paced runs. The sole flare provides added stability, and the heel bevel ensures smooth transitions from heel to toe, whether you’re walking or running.
- Fit: The toebox is roomy, and the shoe comes in both normal and wide widths. The sock-like fit and lightweight upper provide comfort without compromising lockdown. The flexible heel counter is a plus for those with Haglund’s deformity, as it doesn’t create pressure on the heel.
Best for: Faster runs, daily walking, standing all day, and those needing a flexible, responsive shoe.
4. Brooks Ghost Max 2
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 offers a more orthopaedic-like design with 39mm of cushioning in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 6mm drop. It’s built for those seeking comfort and stability without sinking too much into the cushion.
- Cushioning and Performance: The Ghost Max 2 sits between the plush feel of the Glycerin Max and the firmer Cloudmonster. It provides a stable, balanced cushion, making it an excellent choice for walking, standing all day, or recovery runs.
- Fit: With ample room in the toebox and available in normal, wide, and extra-wide versions, this shoe is a great fit for those with bunions or Morton’s neuroma. The padded tongue and stiff heel counter add extra stability and comfort.
Best for: Stability, walking, standing all day, recovery runs, and wide-foot options. Another Brooks Stability shoe is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24.
5. ON Cloudmonster 2
The ON Cloudmonster 2 is designed for those seeking a firmer, faster max-cushioned shoe. It features 35mm of cushioning in the heel and 29mm in the forefoot, along with ON’s unique Helion cushioning and a TPU plate for added rigidity.
- Cushioning and Performance: Despite its cushioning, the Cloudmonster 2 is quite firm, providing excellent spring and propulsion for faster runs. The TPU plate adds stiffness, making the shoe great for speed work while still offering comfort for longer distances.
- Fit: The Cloudmonster 2 has plenty of space in the toebox and comes in wide versions. However, the ultra-thin tongue can cause pressure at the front of the ankle when the laces are tightened, which might be uncomfortable for those with ankle issues.
Best for: Faster runs, long-distance running, and those looking for a firmer cushioned shoe with some speed.
Final Thoughts: Which Shoe is Best for You?
Each of these shoes offers unique benefits based on your needs:
- Brooks Glycerin Max: Best for long runs, walking, and standing with plush cushioning.
- ASICS Gel-Kayano 31: Ideal for stability and overpronation with soft, comfortable cushioning.
- ASICS Novablast 4: Perfect for uptempo runs, day-to-day activities, and a responsive ride.
- Brooks Ghost Max 2: Great for walking, recovery, and wide-foot options with a stable feel.
- ON Cloudmonster 2: Excellent for faster runs and those seeking a firmer, responsive, cushioned shoe.
If you have any questions about these shoes, feel free to leave a comment below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and check out more reviews on the most comfortable shoes on the market!
