With hundreds of running shoes available in the UK, choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming. The best running shoe isn’t the most expensive one, or the one with the most technology – it’s the one that suits your gait, your goals and the surfaces you run on. At Running Bath we fit runners with the right shoe every day and this is our expert guide to the best running shoes available in the UK right now.
We’ve organised this by category so you can find the right shoe for your specific needs – whether you’re a complete beginner, a seasoned marathoner, a trail runner or a runner dealing with a specific issue like overpronation or knee pain.
Best All-Round Running Shoe UK – Brooks Ghost 17
The Brooks Ghost 17 is our top pick for most runners. It’s one of the best-selling running shoes in the world for good reason – cushioned without being heavy, versatile enough to handle any pace and any distance, and consistent enough to trust mile after mile. If you’re not sure where to start, start here. Available in men’s and women’s versions and wide fit (2E). Read our full Brooks Ghost 17 guide or shop now.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe UK – HOKA Bondi 9
For runners who want maximum cushioning – for long runs, recovery days or simply because comfort is a priority – the HOKA Bondi 9 is unmatched. The highest stack height in HOKA’s road range delivers exceptional impact protection and the updated midsole in the 9 makes it noticeably more responsive than previous versions. Best for: long distance, recovery runs, high mileage training. Read our full HOKA Bondi 9 guide or shop now.
Best Stability Running Shoe UK – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
For runners who overpronate, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is the most consistently recommended stability shoe available. GuideRails technology limits excess inward rolling without feeling restrictive – a more natural approach than traditional motion-control shoes. One of the best-selling running shoes in the UK year after year. Available in wide fit (2E). Read our full Adrenaline GTS 25 guide or shop now.
Best Versatile Daily Trainer UK – HOKA Clifton 10
The HOKA Clifton 10 is the most popular shoe in HOKA’s range and one of our top sellers. Lightweight, cushioned and versatile – it handles every type of run at every pace with ease. If you want a single shoe for everything from easy miles to race day, the Clifton 10 is hard to beat. Read our full HOKA Clifton 10 guide or shop now.
Best Trail Running Shoe UK – HOKA Speedgoat 7
For off-road running, the HOKA Speedgoat 7 is our top pick. The Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers exceptional grip on wet and technical terrain, while the cushioned midsole provides more protection than most trail shoes – a combination that makes it popular with trail runners of all levels, from weekend adventurers to ultra-distance competitors. Read our full HOKA Speedgoat 7 guide or shop now.
Best Long Distance Running Shoe UK – Brooks Glycerin 23
When long, slow miles and maximum comfort are the priority, the Brooks Glycerin 23 is our recommendation. DNA LOFT v3 foam delivers a noticeably plush ride that protects your legs over high mileage, making it a favourite for marathon training and recovery days. Read our full Brooks Glycerin 23 guide or shop now.
Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet UK – Brooks Ghost 17 Wide
The Brooks Ghost 17 Wide (2E) gives runners with wider feet access to one of the best daily trainers available without compromising on fit. The 2E width provides noticeably more room across the forefoot while maintaining the smooth, cushioned ride the Ghost is known for. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Wide is our top pick for overpronators who also need a wider fit. Read our full guide to running shoes for wide feet.
Best Running Shoes for Beginners UK – Brooks Ghost 17 or HOKA Clifton 10
For new runners, the Brooks Ghost 17 and HOKA Clifton 10 are both excellent starting points. Both are forgiving, well-cushioned and versatile enough to handle the variety of runs a beginner will do. If you overpronate, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 adds stability support without feeling intrusive. Read our full beginner’s guide to running shoes.
How to Choose the Right Running Shoe
Understand your gait
The most important factor in choosing a running shoe is whether you overpronate – where the foot rolls inward on landing. Overpronators need stability shoes; neutral runners need cushioned neutral shoes. A gait analysis is the most reliable way to find out which you are.
Consider your terrain
Road running needs a smooth, cushioned outsole. Trail running needs grip and protection. If you run both surfaces regularly, it’s worth having a dedicated shoe for each.
Think about your mileage and pace
Higher mileage runners need more cushioning for protection. Faster runners often prefer a lighter, more responsive shoe. Most runners benefit from having two shoes – a cushioned daily trainer and a lighter shoe for faster sessions.
Get the fit right
Running shoes should fit differently to everyday shoes – you need around a thumbnail’s width of space at the toe, a secure heel, and enough room across the forefoot. Always try before you buy if possible and consider going half a size up if you’re between sizes.
Where to Buy Running Shoes in the UK
While online retailers offer convenience, buying running shoes in a specialist running store gives you access to expert advice and the opportunity to try shoes properly before committing. At Running Bath on the High Street in Bath, we offer:
- Gait analysis – we assess your running style and recommend shoes suited to your individual mechanics
- Expert fitting – we measure both feet and help you find the right size and width
- Try before you buy – run in shoes on our treadmill before you decide
- Free UK delivery on orders over £60 for those who prefer to shop online
Best Running Shoes UK – FAQs
Brooks and HOKA are consistently the most popular brands at Running Bath and among UK runners generally. Brooks is particularly strong in stability shoes and everyday trainers, while HOKA leads in cushioning and trail running. Asics, On Running, Salomon and Mizuno are also excellent depending on your specific needs.
For a quality everyday running shoe, expect to spend £120-£165. Carbon-plated race shoes cost more (£200-£280) but most runners don’t need these for training. Avoid very cheap running shoes – inadequate cushioning and support is one of the most common causes of running injuries.
Most running shoes last 400-500 miles. At 30 miles per week that’s roughly 3-4 months. Signs it’s time to replace: loss of cushioning, increased soreness after runs, or visible wear on the outsole.
Not essential, but strongly recommended – particularly if you’ve had knee, hip or foot issues, or if you’re new to running. A gait analysis takes around 30 minutes and removes all the guesswork from choosing the right shoe. Book a gait analysis at Running Bath.
For the UK’s wet winters, a GORE-TEX waterproof version of your preferred shoe is worth considering – we stock waterproof versions of the Brooks Ghost, Adrenaline GTS and HOKA Speedgoat. For trail running in wet conditions, the HOKA Speedgoat 7’s Vibram Megagrip outsole is particularly effective in mud and on wet rock.
Visit Running Bath for Expert Running Shoe Advice
Running Bath is Bath’s specialist running store, stocking the UK’s best running shoes from HOKA, Brooks, Asics, On Running, Salomon, Mizuno and more. Visit us on the High Street in Bath city centre or shop online with free UK delivery over £60. Browse our full range or book a gait analysis in-store.
Also useful: Best Running Shoes for Beginners – Stability Running Shoes – Running Shoes for Wide Feet – Running Routes in Bath