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We Tested the Best Treadmill Running Shoes for Sprints, Marathons, and More

High-performance pairs for indoor runners from Brooks, Hoka, New Balance, and more

On Running Cloudrunner shoes sitting on top of eachother

Verywell Fit / Sophia Heald

Running on a treadmill certainly has its benefits—it’s easy to control your pace, and you don’t have to worry about staying safe while running in the dark or in bad weather. But wearing the right shoes is crucial for optimal comfort, performance, and injury protection. The best treadmill running shoes are supportive and provide good energy return to help propel you forward. When shopping for treadmill running shoes, look for pairs that are lightweight and breathable since you don’t need as much cushioning or protection as you would for running on roads or trails.

To find the best treadmill running shoes, we research pairs from the most popular, trusted brands and speak with experts to understand which key features every pair should have. Then, we lace up and hit the treadmill to test 58 expert-approved shoes in the real world. When we test treadmill running shoes, we complete at least three runs a week for a month. Shoes that make our final list of recommendations have received high scores for their fit, cushioning, comfort, stability, responsiveness, quality, and overall value. We also had a walking coach and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this story for accuracy and how to shop for comfortable, supportive treadmill running shoes.

Can You Wear Road Running Shoes on a Treadmill?

Yes, you can wear some road running shoes on a treadmill. Avoid wearing hybrid shoes that are designed for both road and trail running, since they have extra grippy soles that are unnecessary for treadmill running. (Also important: Sneakers with aggressive lugs on the outsole can actually damage a treadmill belt.) And steer clear of heavily cushioned shoes, like Hoka’s Bondi 8, which can feel heavy. Running on a treadmill puts less stress on your joints, so you can wear a less cushioned shoe than you would for outdoor running, says certified personal trainer April Gatlin, ACE-CPT.

Best Women’s Overall

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 v13

New Balance

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Two types of responsive foam cushioning

  • Comes in four widths

Cons
  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Weight: 7.3 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush and responsive | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 6 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 13 | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners with neutral arches who need a lightweight shoe they can run in every day, especially if you have wide feet.

Why We Love Them

Lightweight and fully cushioned, New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080v13 Running Shoe is our top overall women’s pick for its comfort, responsiveness, and flexibility. Don’t let the streamlined, minimalist look fool you: During testing, we found that the two types of foam cushioning in this shoe felt soft and springy while also providing dependable shock absorption

The stretchy mesh upper offers a glove-like fit. We also love that the sole’s rocker shape provides smooth transitions to help you roll all the way through your feet, from your heels to your toes. 

Like most New Balance shoes, this pair comes in half sizes and a range of widths, including narrow, medium, wide, and extra-wide, so you can find the fit that’s right for you. For stylish, versatile sneakers you can wear on the treadmill but also around the neighborhood when you need to, we highly recommend the Fresh Foam X 1080v13. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and New Balance.

Potential Flaws

Although this shoe is pricier than most others on our list, we think it’s worth the investment for how comfortable and responsive it feels.

Best Men’s Overall

Brooks Aurora-BL Running Shoe

Brooks Men’s Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    4.8/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.6/5
  • Stability
    5/5
Pros
  • Midsole is two separate pieces

  • Heel curves up for smooth transitions

  • Breathable upper

Cons
  • Only comes in one width

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Weight: 8.5 ounces | Materials: Fabric and synthetic upper, foam midsole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Thick and plush | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 6 millimeters | Size Range: 7 to 15 | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners with neutral arches who want a shoe with pillowy cushioning that can help you run longer and farther.

Why We Love Them

Next-level cushioning and an ultra-responsive design come together in Brooks’ Aurora-BL Neutral Running Shoe, our top overall men’s pick. During testing, we couldn’t get enough of the squishy midsole, which had a soft, marshmallow-like texture that our feet never sank into. It absorbs shock better than most other shoes we’ve run in (most notably, Hoka’s Clifton 8). 

When we first started running in them, we noticed the heel’s unique shape right away. With a sharp curve at the very back, it encouraged us to keep our weight in the balls of our feet, pushing us forward to the next step. We noticed that this design feature actually made our legs feel fresher after each run, helping us run longer—one of our testers even had to stop himself to avoid running too far ahead of his training schedule.

Unlike all other running shoes on our list, the Aurora-BL has a midsole that’s split into two separate pieces. This allows your forefoot and heel to move independently for a more natural stride. With a true-to-size fit, plenty of stability, and a highly breathable upper, this is by far our favorite men’s treadmill running shoe we’ve tested. 

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks.

Potential Flaws

  • We wish these sneakers were available in more than one width.
  • They’re one of our pricier picks. But if you need additional cushioning in a shoe that isn’t too bulky for treadmill running, we think they’re well worth the extra cost.

Most Valuable Insight

“Brooks’ Aurora-BL Running Shoes are possibly the most futuristic, lightweight, and comfortable running shoes I've ever worn. I look forward to trying to put as many miles on these shoes as I can.” —John Somerall, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Budget

Brooks Launch 10 Running Shoe

Brooks Men’s Launch 10 Neutral Running Shoe

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    4.3/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.3/5
  • Stability
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Lightweight and stable

  • Firm midsole

  • Secure, comfortable fit

Cons
  • Not as much arch support

  • May be too narrow for some

Key Specs

Weight: 8.3 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 10 millimeters | Size Range: 7 to 15 | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want a lightweight shoe that’s supportive and comfortable for speedwork on the treadmill.

Why We Love Them

We recommend Brooks’ Launch 10 Neutral Running Shoes if you’re looking for a high-quality, lightweight shoe that’s also budget-friendly. It offers superb comfort and a flexible outsole that’s perfect for running on the treadmill. When we tested this pair, we were impressed by how well they fit and how incredibly stable they felt as we ran. We also like that the Launch 10 has plenty of support and durability for high mileage on the treadmill but is still light enough for fast interval training.

The foam midsole is firm but shock-absorbing, so your feet are supported and protected while you run. These sneakers feel responsive underfoot, allowing for smooth transitions from heel to toe. The mesh upper is comfortable and breathable to prevent blisters and overheating. With an attractive design, the Launch 10 also works well as a casual shoe on days when you don’t have time to switch pairs after hitting the gym—making this budget-friendly shoe an even better value.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks.

Potential Flaws

  • While the Launch 10 is suitable for neutral runners, we found that it didn’t have as much arch support as some other sneakers we tested, like Hoka’s Gaviota 5.
  • We found that the toe box felt a bit narrow at first, so some runners may want to order the wide width. 

Best for Long Distances

On Women's Cloudrunner

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
Pros
  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Excellent ankle support

  • Soft cushioning absorbs shock well

Cons
  • Limited colors in wide widths

Key Specs

Weight: 8.8 ounces | Materials: Polyester and recycled polyester mesh upper, recycled polyurethane lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush but responsive | Arch Support: Stability | Drop: 9 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 11 | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who need a soft, supportive shoe for increasing their distance on the treadmill.

Why We Love Them

On’s Cloudrunner Running Shoes are our favorite long-distance treadmill sneakers, thanks to their soft cushioning and solid arch support. The thick foam midsole provides cloud-like comfort that we found took the pressure off of our joints while we ran. Plus, they’re very responsive—we noticed an additional bounce in our step right after trying them on that propelled us forward for a lighter stride. 

With reliable support, especially in the arch area, the Cloudrunner feels comfortable and stable while running. The shoe’s soft and breathable mesh upper allowed for better airflow than other shoes we’ve worn, keeping our feet cool. Additional foam padding around the collar provides great ankle support—our tester frequently rolls her ankles while running, but she noticed that the problem went away after she started wearing the Cloudrunner. If you’re putting in some serious miles on the treadmill, we highly recommend this pair to help you go even further. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Zappos, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Nordstrom, and On Running.

Potential Flaws

  • We wish all of the colors were also available in the wide width.

Most Valuable Insight

“When I put them on for the first time, it felt like my feet had checked into a spa. These shoes met and exceeded my expectations, and I will only buy On brand shoes from now on!” —Sophia Heald, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Flat Feet

Hoka Gaviota 5

Hoka Women's Gaviota 5

Hoka

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Solid stability and support

  • Sole is curved for smooth transitions

  • Great traction

Cons
  • May be too heavy for speedwork

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Weight: 9.1 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Arch Support: Stability | Drop: 6 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 12 | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for treadmill runners or walkers who have flat or flexible arches and want a soft, well-cushioned stability shoe. 

Why We Love Them

Treadmill runners with flat feet have a tendency to overpronate. If that’s you, you need a shoe that will control your foot’s excess movement without sacrificing cushioning. For a shoe that checks all the boxes, we recommend Hoka’s Gaviota 5. This pair is built with Hoka’s H-Frame technology that prevents your feet from rolling inward, providing the stability and support that overpronators need to reduce their risk of injury while running. Plus, the outsole features Hoka’s curved rocker design, which propels us forward for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

Unlike some other stability shoes, the Gaviota 5 doesn’t feel stiff, so you can walk or run comfortably. The shoe’s mesh upper hugs the foot for a close fit and a locked-in feel, while the cushioned collar and tongue provide additional comfort. We also like that the rubber outsole has excellent traction for a good grip on most treadmill belts.

Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hoka, and Fleet Feet.

Potential Flaws

  • We like the Gaviota 5’s ample cushioning and support, but it may feel too heavy and bulky for fast runs on the treadmill.
  • This pair is one of our most expensive picks. Still, we think they’re worth the price for how supportive they are. 

Best for Stability

Brooks Women's Glycerin GTS 20

Brooks Women's Glycerin GTS 20

Brooks

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
Pros
  • Wide toe box

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Removable insoles

Cons
  • Limited colors in wide and narrow widths

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Weight: 9.1 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining and insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Arch Support: Stability | Drop: 10 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 12 | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They're For

Best for runners who want a stable, comfortable shoe with plenty of arch support.

Why We Love Them

Featuring soft, adaptive cushioning and excellent arch support, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe is our top pick for treadmill runners who need extra stability. During our tests, the shoe provided great support (especially for our ankles and arches) and a locked-in feel. They feature Brooks’ signature GuideRails technology along the heel and midfoot that helps prevent overpronation and promote a natural stride. And if all of these features don’t cut it, we love that these sneakers have removable insoles, so you can add your own insoles or orthotics if you need to.

We were impressed by the shoe’s soft, thick foam cushioning, which absorbs shock well to protect our joints. We also love how the plush, padded collar protects our ankles. The stretchy mesh upper that covers the wide toe box is flexible and breathable, which is crucial when you’re running indoors since there’s no natural airflow. Even better? The Glycerin GTS 20 has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has decided that wearing these sneakers helps improve foot health. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks

Potential Flaws

  • Compared to some of our other picks, you’ll pay more for these shoes—however, we think their thoughtful design and APMA Seal of Acceptance-winning status are worth the price.
  • We wish more colors were available in narrow and wide widths.

Most Valuable Insight

“I'm so much more apt to extend my runs while wearing these shoes. There's so much spring to the cushion, and the cushioning is foamy without being too spongy. They're truly fantastic.” —Kimberly Souza, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Shock Absorption

Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe

Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe

Mizuno

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    4/5
Pros
  • Thick, soft foam cushioning

  • Removable insoles

  • Padded tongue, heel tab, and collar

Cons
  • May run small

Key Specs

Weight: 8.3 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining and insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush but responsive | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 12 millimeters | Size Range: 6 to 12 | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners with neutral arches who want a stable shoe for tackling long distances. 

Why We Love Them

Mizuno’s Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe is our top pick for treadmill runners with heel pain or other foot conditions who need some serious shock absorption. We love how stable it feels—and weighing just over 8 ounces, we were surprised by how much support it packs into a fairly lightweight design. We also like that the tongue, heel tab, and collar are padded, for added comfort without any extra bulk.

Compared to the Wave Rider 25, this new model has two additional millimeters of foam cushioning in its full-length midsole. We found that it feels ultra-comfortable underfoot, helping us run pain-free during testing. Plus, these shoes have removable insoles for adding your own orthotics, like some other pairs on our list. Now, we continue to reach for these sneakers for running longer distances, thanks to their seamless upper that prevents blisters from forming

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Fleet Feet.

Potential Flaws

  • We didn’t find any issues with the way these sneakers fit, but others have found that they run small. If you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing up (just to be safe). 

Best Lightweight

Saucony Women's Ride 16 Sneaker

Amazon Saucony Women's Ride 16 Sneaker

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    3.9/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.2/5
  • Stability
    4.6/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Midfoot lacing loops for a secure fit

  • Thin, bouncy cushioning

Cons
  • May run narrow

  • Not as cushioned as other options

Key Specs

Weight: 7.8 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 8 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 12 | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who They’re For

Best for shorter runs, especially if you don’t have much joint or foot pain. 

Why We Love Them

Sick of heavy, bulky sneakers? We love Saucony’s Ride 16 Running Shoe for its lightweight design. At just 7.8 ounces, this is a sleek, energetic sneaker for short, fast treadmill workouts. During test runs, the shoe’s foam cushioning felt thin and springy, part of the Ride 16’s streamlined look and feel. 

We like how the mesh upper comfortably wraps around our feet, while the midfoot lacing loops provide a secure fit (no slipping or sliding here). And like a few of our other favorites, the Ride 16 has also earned the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance for its sturdy, innovative design. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily step count by jogging on your under-desk treadmill or you need a solid everyday trainer, the Ride 16 can help you achieve your goals.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Saucony, and Road Runner Sports

Potential Flaws

  • One of our testers found that the toe box felt narrow, so you may want to consider ordering the wide width. 
  • Since these shoes are so lightweight, they’re not as cushioned as some of our other picks. We noticed that they lessened some of our joint pain, but we wouldn’t recommend them for runners with chronic foot or joint issues. 

Best Cushioned

Asics Gel-Cumulus 25

Asics Women’s Gel-Cumulus 25 Running Shoes

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    4.7/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    4.3/5
Pros
  • Excellent shock absorption

  • Flexible, breathable upper

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons
  • Forefoot is a bit stiff

Key Specs

Weight: 8.1 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush and responsive | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 8 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 12 | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They’re For

Best for neutral runners or underpronators (meaning your ankles roll outward when you run). 

Why We Love Them

If cloud-like comfort is your priority, then we recommend Asics’ Gel-Cumulus 25 Running Shoes. During testing, we immediately noticed the shoe’s thick cushioning. Unlike many other shoes on our list, this pair has lots of foam padding that still feels firm underfoot—a great balance if you’ve had trouble finding cushioned sneakers that your feet won’t sink into. 

The Gel-Cumulus 25 put a spring in our step while running and provided great impact protection for our feet and knees. Made with recycled materials, the shoe’s stretchy mesh upper is flexible and breathable—we didn’t notice any hot spots or rubbing. Designed for neutral arches or runners who underpronate, we like that they come in three widths so you can find the right fit for your feet.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Asics

Potential Flaws

  • While the shoe’s midfoot and rearfoot are very well-cushioned, we think the forefoot can feel a little stiff.

Best for Road and Treadmill Running

HOKA Mach X

HOKA Women's Mach X

Hoka

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
Pros
  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Good traction

  • Cushioning helps combat joint pain

Cons
  • Only comes in one width

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Weight: 8.0 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon and recycled polyester upper, recycled polyester laces, recycled polyester lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Responsive | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 5 millimeters | Size Range: 5 to 11 | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want a soft, very responsive shoe that can handle both speedwork and long runs.

Why We Love Them

Hoka’s Mach X is our pick for a versatile shoe that can easily go from the treadmill to the pavement. Its soft, responsive cushioning covers a plastic polymer plate to create a plush (but very bouncy) ride. We even noticed less joint pain after running in these sneakers. And we love how breathable the mesh upper is, to allow air to circulate inside the shoe. 

The Mach X comes equipped with Hoka’s signature Meta-Rocker design, a curve in the sole that pushes you forward for smoother transitions between steps. And when you want to take these shoes outside for some miles, rest assured that the durable rubber outsole will provide plenty of traction. All of these features combine to create an agile sneaker that works for almost any pace, as well as both short and long distance runs.

Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka.

Potential Flaws

  • We wish the Mach X came in multiple widths, for runners with wide or narrow feet. 
  • This pair is pretty pricey, but we think it’s a great investment since you’re getting a sneaker that works just as well indoors as it does outdoors.

Most Valuable Insight

“These shoes are some of the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn, let alone run in.” —Rachel Marek, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Speed

Saucony Kinvara 14 Running Shoes

Saucony Men's Kinvara 14 Running Shoes

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.1/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    4.8/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Highly responsive

  • Ultra-lightweight

  • Mesh upper is very breathable

Cons
  • May run narrow

Key Specs

Weight: 7 ounces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Responsive | Arch Support: Neutral | Drop: 4 millimeters | Size Range: 7 to 15 | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want a lightweight sneaker that’s high-quality but doesn’t have the feel or steep price of carbon-plated running shoes.

Why We Love Them

Responsive, flexible, and extremely lightweight, Saucony’s Kinvara 14 Sneaker is our top pick for speedwork on the treadmill. With a combination of springy foam cushioning and a slight rocker shape, it’s highly responsive—during testing, we noticed how effective this shoe was at propelling us to the next stride. Not only did we feel like we were able to pick up the pace, but our legs also felt fresher than usual after each run.

We also like that the shoe’s seamless mesh upper hugs our feet for a comfortable, locked-in fit. It’s also very breathable, which helps keep our feet cool and blister-free. The outsole has durable rubber in high-impact zones, but it isn’t thick or bulky—making the Kinvara 14 ideal for sprints or anyone looking to run faster.

Also available in women’s sizes at Saucony, REI, and Road Runner Sports

Potential Flaws

  • We found that the fit runs narrow, so you may want to size up or try the wide width.

Treadmill Running Shoes We Also Tested

We’ve tested dozens of treadmill running shoes, but they didn’t all make the cut. Although we liked some aspects of these sneakers, they just don’t compare to our top picks: 

  • While we love how stylish and responsive lululemon’s Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe is, it lacks stability compared to other sneakers we tested. We also wish it absorbed shock better. 
  • Brooks’ Hyperion Max Neutral Running Shoe is ultra-lightweight, weighing just 6.7 ounces. But its thick cushioning is better suited for hard, unforgiving outdoor terrain (like pavement). We found that the thick sole felt unstable while running on the treadmill. 

What to Look for When Shopping for Treadmill Running Shoes

  • Fit: A pair of running shoes should fit comfortably, whether you’re walking on a treadmill desk or sprinting on a treadmill at the gym. Finding the right fit can improve your running form and reduce your risk of injury. The shape of a shoe’s footbed and your foot’s bone structure can affect how a running shoe fits, so make sure to try new sneakers on before you wear them for a workout. 
  • Weight: Since a treadmill belt is a softer surface than asphalt, concrete, or gravel, most runners won't need a shoe with immense cushioning or bulky, grippy soles. Instead, you can wear lighter shoes than you would normally wear outside, especially for speedwork.
  • Stability: Although stability isn’t as crucial for treadmill running as it is for outdoor running, it’s still important to look for running shoes with a durable, stable heel and an even, supportive outsole. Runners who overpronate can benefit from a stability or motion control shoe, according to Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT, a physical therapist. If you’re not sure whether you pronate, visit a specialty running store where experts can analyze your running gait while you’re on a treadmill. You can also consult a running coach or a physical therapist.
  • Cushioning: No matter your pace or distance on the treadmill, you’ll need enough cushioning in your shoes to absorb shock. Most pairs have foam cushioning that helps protect your joints. The level of cushioning you need depends on your foot shape and whether you have any injuries, like plantar fasciitis. Look for responsive cushioning that’s firm and lightweight, with high energy return. The shoes should feel springy like they’re pushing you forward on the machine. If the cushioning is too plush, it won’t have enough bounce.
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: Heel-to-toe drop is the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and at the forefoot, measured in millimeters. A shoe’s drop can affect your foot strike and which areas take on the most impact while you run. Most running shoes’ drops fall between 8 and 12 millimeters—but some brands, like Hoka, are known for having lower drops, in the 4- to 6-millimeter range. Runners who are heel strikers usually prefer shoes with a higher drop because they have more cushioning underneath the heel. A lower drop puts less pressure on your knees and hips and often works better for runners who have a midfoot or forefoot strike.
  • Breathability: When running indoors, you don’t get the benefit of natural airflow, so you’ll want to make sure you choose a shoe that’s breathable. Not only will a well-ventilated shoe keep your feet cool and comfortable on the treadmill, but you’ll also reduce your risk of blisters. Look for shoes with a mesh upper for good breathability.

How We Tested Treadmill Running Shoes

To find the best treadmill running shoes, we’ve tested 58 pairs in the real world, completing at least three runs a week over the course of a month. Often, we have two different testers run in each shoe to account for differences in feet, running gaits, and personal preferences. When testing running shoes, we evaluate the shoes while considering the following attributes:

  • Fit: First, we run an initial fit test by wearing each pair for a few minutes. Do they feel snug and secure around the heel and midfoot, or are our feet sliding around? Is there enough room to wiggle and splay out our toes? We also note if we feel any tingling or numbness in our toes. We use these observations to determine if the shoe feels true to size, too narrow or too wide. 
  • Cushioning: During test runs on the treadmill, we assess whether the cushioning feels plush or firm. Is it supportive and shock-absorbing? Does the midsole feel too thick, too thin, or just right? We also pay attention to how our feet and joints feel while running and if we notice any pain, discomfort, or fatigue. 
  • Comfort: Are the shoes immediately comfortable, or do our feet need to get used to them? Do our toes feel like they’re jammed at the front of the shoe? We pay close attention to the shoe’s upper, too—do our feet get too hot while we run? Do we notice any irritating seams or blisters?
  • Stability: We also evaluate whether the shoe has adequate arch and ankle support. We pay attention to whether we feel unsteady or unbalanced in the shoes. We also note if the shoe conforms to our feet, so it feels like we’re running in the shoe, not on it.
  • Responsiveness: We assess how effective the shoe is at propelling us to the next stride. How do the transitions feel? Does the sneaker give energy back to us as we land? We also note how our feet and legs feel after each run and if the shoes change our level of fatigue.
  • Overall Value: We wait to check the price of each running shoe until the end of every testing period after we’ve rated it in all other categories. How have they held up over time? Considering their overall performance, we decide whether the price feels too high, too low, or like a fair value. 

Our Experts

We spoke to each of these experts to understand what key features our readers should look for in a quality pair of treadmill running shoes. We also noted any brands our experts like best for treadmill running and any shoes runners should avoid for this activity.

  • April Gatlin, ACE-CPT, a certified personal trainer and master trainer for STRIDE Fitness
  • Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT, a physical therapist in Sparta, New Jersey
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot & Ankle Center

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my treadmill running shoes?

It depends on which shoes you wear and how much you weigh, among other factors—note that treadmill belts are softer and smoother than most outdoor surfaces, meaning they don’t wear your shoes’ soles down as quickly. You should replace your treadmill running shoes when you see excessive wear or after around 450 to 550 miles, Prestipino recommends, to avoid injuries that can come from wearing worn-out shoes. 

What kind of shoes are best for running on the treadmill?

The best shoes for running on the treadmill are lightweight, supportive, and responsive, with the right amount of cushioning. Keep in mind that a shoe that works for another runner may not be the best choice for you, so you may want to ask experts at a running shoe store for help finding a sneaker that’s suitable for your body, gait, and stride, says Gatlin.

Should you run on a treadmill with running shoes?

Yes, running shoes are the best choice for running on a treadmill because they have the right support and cushioning to protect your feet and joints. Walking shoes aren’t breathable or springy enough and may be too heavy for running, while gym shoes don’t have the arch support or energy return you need. 

Can I use gym shoes for running on a treadmill?

While a few gym shoes are versatile enough for treadmill running, many are designed for activities like weightlifting and aren’t supportive enough for treadmill running. If you have a low-profile shoe with grippy soles that’s designed for specific workouts, like CrossFit or powerlifting, we recommend only wearing them for their intended purpose.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. For treadmill running, she finds that New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080v13 Running Shoe provides the perfect comfort and support for her neutral gait.

2 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Malisoux L, Chambon N, Urhausen A, Theisen D. Influence of the heel-to-toe drop of standard cushioned running shoes on injury risk in leisure-time runners: a randomized controlled trial with 6-month follow-up. Am J Sports Med. 2016;44(11):2933-2940. doi:10.1177/0363546516654690

  2. Zhang M, Zhou X, Zhang L, Liu H, Yu B. The effect of heel-to-toe drop of running shoes on patellofemoral joint stress during running. J Gait Posture. 2022;93:230-234. doi:10.1016/j.gaitpost.2022.02.008