Why it's best: Brooks has long been an innovator in the world of running shoes, producing incredibly well received shoes like the Beast and Defyance. Brooks is constantly mentioned as one of the top (if not the top) producers of running shoes world wide, and this past year's release the Glycerin 7 takes the top spot in shoes for neutral runners. The Glycerin 7 has a great and consistent fit with lots of cushion to ease impact. This shoe is as comfortable for training on a daily basis as it is for long runs and it holds up well to regular punishment.
If there is one complaint about the Glycerin 7 (and that's pretty much all there is), it's that the shoe is a little heavier than some of the others mentioned in this field.
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Why it's a best pick: Much like with the name Brooks, when people hear the name New Balance they automatically think of running shoes because, like Brooks, New Balance has produced an endless array of high quality shoes for runners of all shapes, sizes and athletic abilities. The MR883 is one of New Balance's best efforts yet for neutral runners; there aren't a ton of bells and whistles with this shoe but you will get a very lightweight and breathable upper and excellent shock absorption that will make even exceedingly long runs feel comfortable. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: The Air Pegasus is the top selling running shoe of all time world wide for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it is a high quality, high performance and affordable running shoe. Recent versions of the Pegasus had fallen a bit flat in the opinion of many former fans but Nike listened to the criticism and retooled the Pegasus+ 26 accordingly – the latest version of the world's best selling running shoe offers a great fit for a wide variety of foot types, excellent cushioning and a very lightweight, breathable upper. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: The Asics Gel Nimbus II was designed with a mid-sole that spreads/reduces the shock of impact to create an incredibly comfortable running experience. This effort by Asics results in one of the most comfortable running shoes on the market, but for all of the comfort provided it is also an incredibly durable shoe. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: Aside from the Nike Air Pegasus+ 26 at number three on the list, this is the most affordable shoe in the top five. Mizuno may not be synonymous with running, but wearing this shoe might make you think that they were. The Wave Rider 11 is high on comfort and cushioning without sacrificing any stability which makes it a dream come true for long runs. The upper is lightweight and breathable - this is just an all around solid effort from Mizuno. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
I firmly believe that the best running shoes are those that have been customized the way you like them. Not that I'm telling something that you already don't know but the best out there are NikeiD Custom Running Shoes