Experiencing the invigorating sensation of a complete body covered in sweat after a satisfying run is truly gratifying. A fundamental aspect of a successful run, in my view, is a reliable pair of running shoes. After all, nobody wants to deal with a twisted or sprained ankle, right? This realization prompted my quest for the best marathon running shoes for men in India.
Whether you’re scouring the Internet for the best walking shoes, jogging shoes, sports shoes, or PT shoes, the plethora of options can be overwhelming. The key lies in selecting the pair that suits you best. Armed with insights into purchasing the best running shoes for men, I’ve crafted an extensive guide to assist you in finding the perfect pair of sneakers.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Treadmills For Home Use In India
| Our Recommendations | Buy on Amazon |
| 1. Nike Mens Air Zoom Running Shoe | View on Amazon |
| 2. ASICS Mens Gel-Contend Running Shoes | View on Amazon |
| 3. Adidas Men’s Drogos M | View on Amazon |
Type of Running Shoes
Selecting the appropriate pair of shoes can be intricate, considering factors such as the running environment, weight, speed, body type, foot type, and, most importantly, your gait. Let’s delve further into these categories.
Based on Running Surface
Manufacturers tailor running shoes to the type of surface you plan to run on. Road running shoes differ from trail running shoes in appearance, feel, and design, as they are not suitable for the same terrain. Let’s explore the purposes of these distinct types.
Road Running Shoes
These are the most common shoes, perfect for human-made surfaces like pavement, footpaths, or concrete roads. They are crafted to absorb the impact of hard surfaces and endure less wear and tear than their rugged trail counterparts.
Trail Running Shoes
Ideal for rough, off-road, muddy, or inclined trails, trail shoes provide superior grip, support, and ankle protection. Notably, they feature a rock plate, made of plastic or carbon fiber, providing additional defense against small rocks and sharp objects.
Road vs Trail shoe Differences
| Road Running Shoes | Trail Running Shoes |
| These are smaller, lighter and breathable. | Trail shoes are stiffer and heavy. |
| Flat outsoles built with heavy-duty rubber to combat the hard concrete. | Bigger outsoles made with sticky rubber to suit the uneven trail surfaces. |
| Softer midsoles with cushions to protect your feet from the pavement | Midsoles with rock plate to protect your feet against rough surfaces. |
Based on Cushioning
Each runner may require a different level of cushioning, determining whether they want to feel the ground or float on it. Cushioned shoes vary based on stack height, the thickness between the feet and the ground.
Maximum Cushioning Running Shoes
Renowned for injury prevention, these shoes boast maximum padding and a higher stack height. Ideal for regular and marathon runners, they provide a squishy feel, ensuring joint comfort and reduced impact on the feet.
Moderate Cushioning Running Shoes
Versatile shoes suitable for various runs, offering good cushioning for regular use. Perfect for beginners, they strike a balance between enduring comfort and responsiveness.
Minimal Running Shoes
With a low stack height, these shoes have minimal cushioning, preferred by those who enjoy feeling the ground. Considered the best for impact, they encourage a better gait and strengthen knee muscles.
Barefoot Running Shoes
These no-padding shoes, with zero stack height, simulate running with just socks. Widened fronts allow toes to breathe, providing better balance for athletes and traditional runners.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Top 6 Exercise Cycles In India
Based on Pronation
Pronation, the inward movement of the feet upon ground impact, varies among individuals. Understanding your pronation type—normal, overpronation, underpronation, or supination—helps in selecting the right shoe support.
Normal or neutral pronation is the natural inward movement of the feet, usually about 15%. This lets you absorb shock and align your ankles and legs and is typically the case with efficient runners.
When your feet roll more than 15% inward, or downward (first example), you are prone to a lot of injuries. This condition is called Overpronation or most commonly as “flat feet”. If you fall under this category, you have to get a pair of stability shoes that support your feet structure or motion control shoes in a few cases.
Supinators usually have their feet roll outward more than 15% and cause stress in their big toe. Not many people are affected by this condition, but people with high arches do. You can pick shoes which are more flexible and have more cushion on their outer sides.
Based on what type of pronation you categorize yourself, you can pick from 3 different kinds of shoe support to enhance your gait – Neutral, Stability and Motion Control
Neutral Running Shoes
Common and designed with uniform density and cushioning, these are suitable for neutral, mild pronators, and supinators. They lack extra stability features.
Stability Running Shoes
Ideal for runners with slight to moderate overpronation, stability shoes feature added stability features, including guide rails for side-to-side motion.
Motion Control Running Shoes
Best for extreme overpronation cases, these rigid shoes with wider soles are not common but available in specialty stores.
Based on Speed
For speed-focused runners, choosing shoes tailored to their needs is crucial, whether participating in sprints or marathons.
Spikes
Perfect for short-distance sprints, spikes provide forefoot grip with minimal heel cushion support. Not ideal for hard surfaces, they vary in spike pin diameter for different conditions.
Racing Shoes
Ideal for pro runners in 5k and 10k marathons, these ultra-lightweight shoes lack cushioning and stability, requiring strong foot muscles and endurance.
Lightweight training shoes
Suitable for beginners and moderate runners, not recommended for daily use. Features include reinforced toes, high abrasion rubber soles, and flexibility. Limited lifespan, suitable for short, infrequent runs.
Daily Training shoes
Built for daily use, these shoes offer comfort and stability for regular road running sessions. Suitable for beginners and intermediate runners, they sacrifice some speed for durability.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Men’s Gym Shoes in India
Other Types of Running Shoes
Our exploration of classifications doesn’t end here. There are several more categories tailored for physically active individuals, including cross-trainers, joggers, walkers, and gym fitness enthusiasts. Let’s delve deeper into these categories.
Walking Shoes
Perfect for a leisurely stroll or walking your dog, these shoes prioritize comfort over running or jogging. They feature less cushioning, flexibility, and notably lack a flared heel.
Cross Training Shoes
Tailored for athletes engaged in various training activities, these shoes boast a well-cushioned midsole for foot support and stability. Ideal for those involved in high-intensity, strength, and cardio workouts.
Jogging Shoes
Essential for traditional warm-ups to awaken leg muscles, jogging shoes offer optimal cushioning, breathability, and comfort.
Gym Shoes
Preferred by gym enthusiasts engaging in treadmill running, weightlifting, or step aerobics, these shoes provide additional ankle support for seamless forward and backward movements. However, they are not the best choice for long runs or marathons.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Resistance Bands In India
Top Running Shoe Brands in India
For avid runners or those committed to physical routines, selecting comfortable shoes can be a daunting task. It’s crucial to do your homework to find the right pair for your specific activity, considering that gym shoes are unfit for a 5k walkathon, and trail shoes should stay off the roads. Fortunately, numerous top shoe brands cater to our diverse needs, custom designing shoes to enhance our performance.
In this fiercely competitive market, where customer satisfaction is paramount, leading companies conduct extensive market research based on customer feedback to continually improve speed and efficiency.
Let’s now take an in-depth look at these top brands.
Nike
A powerhouse in sporting goods, Nike, founded in 1964, traces its origins to founders Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, who initially sold shoes from the back of their car. Despite expanding into diverse youth apparel, accessories, and sports equipment, Nike remains best known for its track running shoes. The Vaporfly line incorporates innovative technology that enhances speed by up to 4.2%.
Adidas
Boasting a humble beginning with the words, ‘We started in the washroom and conquered the world,’ Adidas is one of the oldest shoe manufacturers. Founded by Adi Dassler, later joined by his brother Rudolf Dassler, the company, headquartered in Germany, is the second-largest globally, after Nike, and the leading brand in Europe. Known for introducing microprocessors in their shoes, Adidas ensures ingenious cushioning based on environmental conditions.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Yoga Mats in India
Puma
Arising from the split of the Dassler brothers in 1947, Puma, initially named Ruda, evolved into a leading producer of Formula One NASCAR clothing. Known for its contributions to racing suits and driving shoes, Puma has a rich history rooted in the rivalry between the Dassler brothers.
Under Armour
A prominent footwear and sports apparel manufacturer, Under Armour produces the fast-selling speedform shoe, featuring no insole, minimal stitching, and connected running shoes equipped with a Bluetooth module, gyroscope, and accelerator.
New Balance
Established in 1906, New Balance ranks among the world’s major footwear and apparel companies. Renowned for manufacturing diverse footwear, from running shoes to everyday sneakers, they are particularly famous for their fresh foam and FuelCell lines of running shoes.
Asics
A leading Japanese footwear manufacturer, Asics, initially selling basketball shoes, expanded into running shoes and other sports footwear. With specialty shoes catering to different needs, such as lightweight shoes, long-distance, marathon, and training shoes, Asics has made a significant mark in the industry.
Reebok
Originating in England, Reebok, a major footwear and apparel manufacturer, was acquired by Adidas in 2005. Operating as separate brand names, Reebok Zig, Reebok Nano, and Z-foam are among the brand’s well-known lines of shoes.
Sketchers
An American footwear manufacturer, Skechers focuses on casual footwear designed for walking and jogging. Notable lines include the popular Skechers Memory Foam, Skechers GOrun, and GOwalk.
Avant
As one of the best sports shoe manufacturers in India, Avant offers a range of running shoes tailored for the Indian terrain. According to its mission, Avant is committed to keeping people moving.
Lancer
As one of the largest footwear producers in India, Lancer manufactures a variety of footwear, from slip-ons to sports shoes. Known for its unique design that combines comfort and style, Lancer adheres to world-class standards and quality with top-notch imported manufacturing equipment.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Elliptical Trainers For Home Use in India
Best Running Shoes – Review
The market boasts an extensive array of running shoes, and navigating through the selection process can be a daunting task. With considerations ranging from cushioning and weight to sole material, finding the right pair requires careful evaluation. To simplify your quest, I present a comprehensive guide featuring the ten best running shoes in India.
1. Nike Mens Air Zoom Running Shoe
A flagship model from Nike, the Air Zoom stands out as one of the best running shoes for men. Its slim design ensures lightweight comfort, and the Flywire cable provides a snug fit at high speeds. The Cushlon foam midsole adds bounce to your stride, making it ideal for track workouts and speed runs. The quality rubber prevents excessive wear, offering durability. Available in regular and extra-wide models, Air Zoom is a top choice and the best running shoes under 16000.
2. Nike Mens Air Zoom
Designed for overpronators and individuals with a neutral gait, these daily trainers feature sleeker outsoles and heat-formed overlays. The lightweight Cushlon foam in the midsole ensures optimal cushioning, making them suitable for regular use.
3. New Balance Men’s Running Shoe
Regarded as the best long-distance running shoes in India, NB Men’s running shoes boast an excellent upper and midsole with laser-etched fresh foam cushioning. Known for their superior fit and feel, these shoes are impressively lightweight.
4. ASICS Mens Gel-Contend Running Shoes
Considered among the best long-distance running shoes, these Asics shoes cater to a variety of athletes. The cushioning provides comfort and injury prevention, while the breathability encourages extended runs. Dubbed the best marathon running shoes in India and the best running shoes under 5000, they may lack substantial arch support.
5. Sketchers Men Walking Shoes
Skechers Men’s Dynamight Black Walking Shoes feature a shock-absorption midsole and a memory foam insole, making them suitable for walking and jogging. Although slightly pricey, the elastic laces on the front panel facilitate easy slipping into your shoes. However, they might require a break-in period and may be less comfortable.
6. Puma Nrgy Comet
Innovating in running shoe technology, Puma’s Nrgy Comet stands out as one of the best running shoes for beginners in India. These ultralight sneakers, equipped with EVA foam, enhance cushioning, comfort, and fit for short runs. While not built for marathon distances, they are a budget-friendly option, ranking among the best running shoes under 2500.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Knee Support In India
7. Adidas Men’s Drogos M
Part of Adidas’s sports-inspired shoe collections, the Drogos M is among the best sports shoes for running in India. Ultralight with a thin midsole, these shoes are flat, ideal for professional runners. Features include upper meshing, an EVA midsole, and outer sole, making them a compelling choice and the best running shoes under 2000 in India.
8. Reebok Protonium Lite
Though presented as running shoes, Reebok’s Protonium Lite excels as walking or jogging shoes. The mesh synthetic upper and memory foam deliver snug comfort, and priced affordably, they qualify as the best running shoes under 2000.
9. Avant UltraWeight Shoes
Priced under 800, Avant Men’s Ultra Light Running and Training Shoes offer an affordable option for runners and gym enthusiasts. Ultralight with a thick removable insole for added comfort, they provide support and grip. However, the lack of a durable outsole may make them less suitable for running.
10. Lancer Men Hydra-46
Priced at less than 600, the Hydra-46 running shoes blend style and comfort, making them the ideal companion for your daily run. Versatile enough for various sports activities, these shoes effortlessly complement your casual wardrobe.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Home Gym Set In India
Running Shoes – Buying Guide
When the footwear market has so much to offer, you have to undergo this meticulous process of finding a perfect pair of running shoes. You could be a casual walker, a serious runner, or just getting ready for your next marathon. No matter which category you fall into, this buying guide will give you a few insights.
Fit
You would never want a pair of shoes that makes you slip or trip and gets you injured. That is a headache for a good runner. So, proper fit is one of the foremost factors to consider before buying a shoe.
How to check if your shoe fits? You do it the old way, try it on, or you could do the new method, check for the size charts online.
Now, I want you to keep in mind a few essential tips, make sure you have a thumbs length from your big toe to the end of your shoe, don’t lace the shoe tight and have about a thumbs width between the back of the foot and the edge of the shoe, and this assures breathability.
Remember, for every weather the size of the shoe alters a little, so you have to warm up a little bit and make the shoes feel comfortable.
Running Surface
For your every activity, there are varieties of shoes available. It is pertinent for you to understand that each shoe is designed to serve its purpose. Road running shoes are suitable for hard pavements, and gym shoes are meant for training.
Use
In addition to the running surface, you have to think about how far and how often are you running. You could be a frequent runner, training for a marathon, sprint, or just love casual walks, no matter what kind you fall into, you have to decide wisely.
Cushioning
So, how much cushioning do you need, you have to be the judge of it. Are you a minimalist and prefer barefoot shoes or love soft snuggly heavily cushioned ones. Decide and pick them. Experts opinion is divided on this, minimalists prefer shoes as thin as the barefoot, as it strengthens their knees and a few prefer cushioned shoes.
Pronation
Gait analysis helps you determine your best pair of shoes based on your natural gait. You could be a fall into either of the three categories – neutral, underpronation or overpronation.
What kind do I fall into?
The best way to find out which kind you fall into is by asking the expert. You can either visit a podiatrist (a foot specialist) or just walk to your nearby speciality store, wherein the specialists have a few ways to determine based on your gait.
Likewise, if you have an old pair of shoes, look at its wear and tear, or you could just check your type based on your footprint shape. Refer to the image below.
After the gait analysis, you can preferably choose between neutral or stability shoes. Runners with overpronation and low arches prefer stability shoes. If you have issues with underpronation or if you have a normal gait, neutral shoes suit you the best.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Punching Bags in India
Running Shoes – Frequently Asked Questions
Now, let’s delve into the commonly asked questions regarding running shoes.
Can you wash your running shoes?
Yes, but adhere to the care instructions provided with the package.
Can I machine wash my running shoes?
Certainly, most running shoes are machine washable. Place them in a shoe bag before tossing them into your machine.
Also check out Swami’s take on the Best Gym Gloves in India
Can running shoes go in the dryer?
Absolutely not. Utilize hand dryers without overheating the shoes. Alternatively, insert newspapers to expedite the drying process.
What is a good fit for a running shoe?
Experts recommend a snug fit, particularly at the midfoot and heel. Maintain about a thumb’s width between your big toe and the shoe’s end.
Which running shoe should I buy?
Consider the factors outlined in the above section to choose a running shoe that best suits your requirements.
How to clean running shoes?
For non-machine washable shoes, manually remove dirt from uppers and outer soles. Clean insoles separately. After washing, air dry or use newspapers to hasten drying.
How long do running shoes last?
Typically, 4-6 months for regular runners covering 20-30kms per week.
How to maintain my running shoes odour free?
Utilize baking soda, salt, or essential oils to keep the shoes fresh.
How to stretch my running shoes?
Wear and walk around the house, freeze them overnight, or wear with 2-3 layers of socks
Why do my running shoes squeak?
Rubber bottoms or moisture in the insole can cause squeaking.
What are the parts of a running shoe?
Conclusion
In summary, Adidas Men’s Drogos M falling under the 2500 range, with impressive features and over 1000 Amazon approval ratings, is a worthwhile investment for a pleasant running experience. For professionals seeking speed and flexibility, Nike Mens Air Zoom is the top choice.
I trust this review proves helpful for your next running shoe purchase. Good luck, and do share your thoughts with us!
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, Swag Swami may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.
