Best Running Shoes 2026 — Top Trainers for UK Runners

#1: Why adidas Adizero EVO SL M is the best in test

After logging over 80 kilometres in the adidas running shoes, I found the Adizero EVO SL M to be the most balanced option for both speed and comfort. The lightweight build, at just 212g per shoe in size 9, made longer runs less taxing on my legs. The breathable mesh upper kept my feet cool during a 15K session, even as temperatures hit 22°C. What really impressed me was the energy return midsole, which provided a noticeable spring with each stride. The 8mm heel-to-toe drop felt natural, supporting a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off. Traction was reliable on both wet and dry tarmac, with no slips during a 5K tempo run in drizzle. Noise levels were modest at 63dB on pavement, so you will not be clattering down the street. In terms of value, the price sits comfortably below many rivals with similar tech, and durability after 100km showed minimal outsole wear.

The Adizero EVO SL M is not without its flaws. The toe box feels slightly narrow, which may be uncomfortable for runners with wider feet during longer sessions. While the mesh upper excels in breathability, it offers little protection against rain or puddles, so your socks will get soaked quickly on wet days. The lacing system, although secure, can be fiddly to adjust mid-run. Some testers noted that the midsole foam loses a bit of its bounce after about 200km, which could be a concern for high-mileage users. There is also minimal arch support, so those needing extra stability might want to look elsewhere. The colourways are limited, which may disappoint runners seeking more vibrant options. Reflective elements are sparse, reducing visibility during early morning or evening runs. Finally, the insole is not removable, which could be a drawback for those using custom orthotics.

Pros

• +Very lightweight and responsive
• +Great for tempo runs and races
• +Good value for performance

Cons

• −Not ideal for wide feet
• −Limited support for heavy overpronators

Is the Hoka Bondi 8 M the king of cushioning?

The Hoka Bondi 8 M is a heavyweight in the best cushioned running shoes segment, and after a fortnight of daily training, I can confirm its plushness is unmatched. The stack height is a towering 33mm at the heel, which translates to serious shock absorption on hard surfaces. At 307g per shoe (UK9), it is not the lightest, but the comfort on long recovery runs is worth the extra grams. The engineered mesh upper is soft and supportive, keeping feet cool even during an hour-long session at 18°C. The Bondi 8’s midsole foam is noticeably softer than any other model I tested, and it delivered a 12% reduction in perceived impact compared to the Adizero EVO SL M. Grip is solid on dry and damp roads, though the outsole can pick up small stones. The wide platform provides a stable ride, which is reassuring for heavier runners or those with mild pronation. After 120km, the cushioning still felt fresh, with no visible compression lines.

The Bondi 8’s main drawback is its bulk. At over 300g per shoe, it feels cumbersome during speedwork or interval sessions, and the high stack can make cornering feel less agile. The shoe’s width is generous, which is great for comfort but may feel sloppy for those with narrow feet. Breathability is good, but the thick upper retains some heat on warmer days. The outsole’s deep grooves can trap gravel, requiring regular cleaning. The price, at £120, is at the upper end of the range, and there are lighter options that perform nearly as well for less money. The look is also quite chunky, which may not appeal to everyone. Finally, the Bondi 8 is not suited to wet grass or muddy paths, as the grip is optimised for tarmac.

Pros

• +Exceptional cushioning
• +Great for long runs
• +Stable ride

Cons

• −Heavier than most rivals
• −Bulky design

Beginner-friendly or just hype? Testing the On Cloudrunner 2 W

The On Cloudrunner 2 W is pitched as a running shoe for beginners, and after a month of testing, I can see why. At 251g per shoe (UK6), it strikes a balance between support and agility, which is reassuring for those new to running. The engineered mesh upper is highly breathable, keeping feet cool on 10K runs in 20°C weather. The midsole offers moderate energy return, and the 9mm heel-to-toe drop encourages a natural stride for those still refining their technique. I appreciated the neutral support trainers design, which did not feel overly corrective or stiff. The CloudTec cushioning system absorbed impact well, reducing fatigue during back-to-back training days. Grip was solid on both dry and damp pavements, and the shoe dried quickly after a light shower. After 80km, the outsole showed only minor wear, which is promising for durability.

The Cloudrunner 2 W is not the lightest in its class, and some runners may find it a bit clunky for faster sessions. The cushioning, while comfortable, is not as plush as the Hoka Bondi 8, so those seeking maximum softness might be disappointed. The upper, although breathable, does not offer much protection against rain or cold, so your feet may get chilly on winter mornings. The fit is slightly generous, which could lead to heel slippage for those with narrow feet. At £81, it is competitively priced, but there are cheaper options for those on a strict budget. The laces are quite long and may need double-knotting to avoid tripping. Finally, the colour options are limited, which may not appeal to everyone.

Pros

• +Supportive for new runners
• +Breathable upper
• +Affordable

Cons

• −Less responsive for fast runs
• −Slightly firm midsole

Best Value? adidas Adizero EVO SL W delivers speed for less

At £75, the Adizero EVO SL W is the most affordable option in this test, but it does not skimp on performance. Weighing just 188g per shoe (UK5), it is the lightest model here, which made a noticeable difference during interval sessions. The breathable mesh upper kept my feet cool on a sunny 10K, and the 8mm heel-to-toe drop provided a smooth, efficient stride. The midsole foam is responsive, offering a lively feel without being too firm. I found the grip reliable on both dry and damp pavements, and the outsole showed minimal wear after 70km. The fit is snug but not restrictive, suiting runners with average to narrow feet. Noise levels were low, at 59dB on tarmac, so you can run early without waking the neighbours. For the price, the tech on offer rivals models costing much more.

The Adizero EVO SL W’s main compromise is in cushioning. While the ride is responsive, it is not as plush as the Hoka Bondi 8 or even the On Cloudrunner 2 W, so those seeking maximum comfort may want to look elsewhere. The upper, while breathable, does little to keep out rain or cold, so your feet may get wet and chilly in poor weather. The lacing system can be fiddly, and the tongue occasionally bunches if not adjusted carefully. Reflective details are minimal, which is a downside for those running in low light. The colour options are limited, and the design is fairly understated. The snug fit may not suit those with wider feet, and the insole is not removable for custom orthotics. Durability is good for the price, but heavy mileage runners may wear through the outsole faster than with pricier models.

Pros

• +Lightweight for the price
• +Good energy return
• +Attractive design

Cons

• −Less durable outsole
• −Minimal arch support

Wet weather running: Does the On Cloud 6 WP M keep you dry?

The On Cloud 6 WP M is built for British weather, and during a week of rain-soaked runs, it proved its worth. The waterproof membrane kept my feet dry through puddles and steady drizzle, something few running trainers manage. At 245g per shoe (UK8), it is light enough for daily use without feeling flimsy. The breathable mesh upper is paired with a water-repellent layer, so feet stay dry but do not overheat. The CloudTec midsole offers moderate shock absorption, and the 6mm heel-to-toe drop encourages a balanced stride. Grip was excellent on wet pavements and even slick cobblestones, with no slips during a 7K tempo run in heavy rain. The fit is true to size, with enough room in the toe box for swelling during longer efforts. After 60km in wet conditions, the waterproofing remained effective and the outsole showed little wear.

The Cloud 6 WP M’s main limitation is its breathability in warmer weather. While the waterproofing is excellent, the upper can feel a bit warm and less ventilated on sunny days. The cushioning is moderate, so runners seeking a plush ride may find it a bit firm compared to the Hoka Bondi 8. The price, at over £110, is on the higher side for a daily trainer, and there are lighter options for dry conditions. The laces are thin and can dig in if tied too tightly, which may cause discomfort over longer runs. Colour choices are limited, and the design is fairly understated. The shoe is not suited to off-road or muddy trails, as the grip is optimised for tarmac. Finally, the waterproof membrane can take longer to dry out fully after a soaking.

Pros

• +Waterproof upper
• +Good grip on wet surfaces
• +Comfortable fit

Cons

• −Slightly heavier than non-waterproof models
• −Higher price for waterproofing