We’ve teamed up once again with our top runners from across Canada who tested the best road-running shoes to help you make your selections this year. Let’s face it, running always begins with a great pair of running shoes. Have a scroll through the pages for some of the upgraded classics, and new technology that will help you find inspiration for the sole.
What’s the ‘Drop’ You Say?
This is the difference between the heel and the forefoot measurements, or in other words, how much your toes ‘drop’ below your heel. Why is this important? Because a higher drop can lead to more heel striking and also transfers some strain away from the lower leg and up towards the knee. A lower drop will shift the load further down to your calf. Check with an expert, choose what feels comfortable to you and take into account your running mechanics and history of injuries.
Altra
Outroad
4/5 Stars | Women | 8.9 oz | 0 mm Drop | $180
www.altrarunning.com
I almost always run a combination of road and trail, so it was nice to have a shoe that was good on both types of terrain. While I can’t wear zero drop very often due to Achilles issues, it was nice to run in Altras again, which are great for people with toe-joint issues who need extra space in the toe box. They were somewhat stiff to start but relaxed as the run went on, and felt light and responsive.
AMY PUZEY, Invermere, B.C. – 2x Team Canada member at the World Mountain Running Championships, mother of six.
Altra
VIA Olympus
3/5 Stars | Men | 11 oz | 0 mm Drop | $170
www.altrarunning.com
These have all the features you’ve come to expect from Altra: a roomy toe box, zero drop heel-to-toe offset, and an appropriate amount of cushion for longer runs. The shape of the maximalist sole has a more aggressive rocker, which may help with promoting a proper toe-off on each stride. The shape of the rocker encourages proper mechanics from heel-strike to toe-off but less comfortable when I started running with more of my typical mid-foot strike.
SEAN ALLT, Chilliwack, B.C. – A 15-year veteran of the fitness industry, experienced ultrarunner, founder & head coach at BackcountryStrength.com, and one of IMPACT Magazine’s Top Trainers in 2022.
Asics
GEL-NIMBUS 25
3.5/5 Stars | Women | 9.17 oz | 8 mm Drop | $210
www.asics.com/ca
I barely recognized this 25th edition of the Nimbus. I immediately noticed the knit tongue and heel tab and how well the shoe hugged my foot. The upper is not nearly as overbuilt as earlier versions of this model, which adds to the lightness of the shoe. I was impressed with its cushioned, plushy ride. The toe box fits on the narrow side so consider going up half a size. This is a great everyday trainer for easy mileage and recovery runs.
CAT YOUNG, Calgary, AB – Competitive runner and life-long endurance athlete.
Asics
GEL-NIMBUS 25
5/5 Stars | Men | 10.3 oz | 8 mm Drop | $210
www.asics.com/ca
Asics has redesigned the Nimbus 25 to appeal to male and female moderate- to high-mileage, neutral runners. Asics removed the forefoot gel but created a larger pureGEL pad in the heel-strike area. This change with the ultra-soft Flight Foam Blast Plus provides a soft touch down and gentle forward rock. The knitted stretchy tongue and perfectly padded heel cup provides a super comfortable but secure upper. I love this shoe for track session, tempo efforts and long slow-paced runs.
CAL ZARYSKI, Calgary, AB – Professional active lifestyle coach, 10x World XTERRA Triathlon Champion, 2021 Ironman 70.3 World Champion and holds the most Multisport world titles in Canada at 12.
Brooks
Hyperion Max
5/5 Stars | Women | 6.7 oz | 8 mm Drop | $220
www.brooksrunning.com
These shoes literally rock! The ‘rapid roll’ rockered sole promotes a swift and smooth transition, impact to toe-off. This neutral trainer aptly delivers performance on peppy outings. The nitrogen-infused midsole provides a lightweight and soft cushion underfoot, without excessive compression to lose road feel. An upper that allows a snug fit, a cleverly flared sole, and a grippy outsole all instill confidence in a secure ride. A smart choice for a runner that logs many zippy miles.
SYL CORBETT, Calgary, AB – World Cup and World Championship competitor in triathlon, duathlon, mountain running, snowshoeing and marathons. Private consultant to pro-athletes.
Brooks
Hyperion Max
5/5 Stars | Men | 7.8 oz | 8 mm Drop | $220
www.brooksrunning.com
This shoe is light and responsive and can be used for training or racing. It is a good choice for “neutral” runners. It offers speedy heel-to-toe transitions and has plenty of ultralight DNA Flash cushioning to help absorb impact, even through the midsole. I found the fit to be extremely comfortable due to the stretch-woven upper and 3D fit print. The shoe provided a snappy, speedy feel for workouts and the rubber outsole provided decent traction. This is a great new addition to the Brooks line-up of shoes.
MYRON TETREAULT, Calgary, AB – Former water polo national champion, and a national age group champion in swimming, running and triathlon.
HOKA
CLIFTON 9
4/5 Stars | Women | 7.3 oz | 5 mm Drop | $180
www.hoka.com
When I first stepped into these shoes, I immediately noticed the stack height, but quickly adapted as I was cruising in ultimate comfort. The fit is well-designed with a snug heel and roomy toe box. The heel pull tab is quite significant but doesn’t detract from the shoe. My only issue was chafing caused by the top eyelet, easily resolved by lacing down a level. The lightweight cushioning is great for easy runs. They’re not the most responsive for faster-paced runs, but they hit the mark for comfort.
SABRINA WILKIE, Surrey, B.C. – Physiotherapist, Mom of four, avid road and cross-country runner, 2:45 marathoner.
HOKA
CLIFTON 9
4.5/5 Stars | Men | 8.7 oz | 5 mm Drop | $180
www.hoka.com
The Clifton 9 is a maximalist daily runner equipped with HOKA’s Meta-Rocker midsole. It provides thick cushioning with an energy-saving design. I found it fits narrow but was quite comfortable and was a great runner for long-distance daily miles. This is a great shoe for easy-paced running or getting in some extra miles following higher-intensity workouts or a large-volume week. The Clifton 9 has both a softer and thicker foam midsole than previous iterations.
IAN MACNAIRN, Calgary, AB – Trail runner; guy with a doctorate in the ultrarunning community.
Mizuno
Wave Rider 26 Roxy Edition
4/5 Stars | Women | 8.3 oz | 12 mm Drop | $180
www.mizunousa.com
A traditional, reliable and neutral daily running shoe. The Mizuno Enerzy foam midsole felt plush and stable. The recycled upper gave a nice locked-down feel and felt comfortable and supportive. A workhorse daily trainer that’s durable and cushioned, I would recommend this shoe for someone who is looking for a moderately cushioned and responsive neutral daily trainer.
EMILY SETLACK, Trenton, ON – 2:29 Canadian marathoner & mountain runner.
Mizuno
Wave Rider 26
4/5 Stars | Men | 10.4 oz | 12 mm Drop | $180
www.mizunousa.com
The Mizuno Wave Runner 26 is light, responsive and ready to run right out of the box and built solid bottom to top. The durable X10 outsole sets the stage gripping treadmill, track and road equally well. The Enerzy foam and the higher heel drop makes this a comfortable shoe for heel-striking runners and controlled downhill running. This neutral shoe has a built-in wave plate, a tight heel box and a wider toe box wrapped up in a breathable and light upper throw. It’s solidly my long-run shoe this season.
PETE ESTABROOKS, Calgary, AB – One of Canada’s foremost fitness experts, ultrarunner and coach is happiest when running in the mountains.
New Balance
FuelCell SuperComp Elite V3
3.5/5 Stars | Women | 6.3 oz | 4 mm Drop | $299.99
www.newbalance.ca
These shoes had a nice feel out of the box. They’re lightweight and bouncy, and the sock-fit upper supports well. Because of the foam sole in combination with the carbon fibre plate, they’re super fast with great energy return. The internal lacing stitches protrude and can cause some rubbing. If you have high arches, the integrated tongue design could make them feel a bit too snug around the top of the foot. They’re also on the narrower side, so not the best for wide feet (like mine!).
JULIE HAMULECKI, Toronto, ON – Coached by her husband Adam Takacs. She runs on the national 100 km team and currently holds the Canadian Women’s 100 km road record.
New Balance
FuelCell SuperComp Elite V3
4.5/5 Stars | Men | 8.1 oz | 4 mm Drop | $299.99
www.newbalance.ca
I was excited to try New Balance’s latest carbon-plated high-end racer. I have put in a few miles in the prior iteration and this is definitely an upgrade. The midsole foam material is firmer, with a lively and bouncy feel. The shoe is stable when cornering and feels fast and responsive, without losing any comfort. With a less aggressive rocker than many super shoes, one might expect the forward propulsion and snap to be lacking, but that isn’t the case. Highly recommended.
ANDY REED, Canmore, AB – Sport medicine physician, mountain ultra-trail runner, numerous podium finishes in mountain ultras throughout
North America.
Newton
Gravity 12
3/5 Stars | Women | 7.2 oz | 3 mm Drop | US $185
https://www.newtonrunning.com
The Newton Gravity 12 supports a nice stride, and being a midfoot/forefoot striker, I really felt a boost, and found the shoe extremely versatile. It will handle my training well, including easy days or tempo runs. The shoe fits true to size, and while it is on the firmer side, the design is responsive without sacrificing comfort. The Gravity 12 is great option for runners looking for a shoe that delivers on performance and fit.
LISSA ZIMMER, Vancouver, B.C. – An elite marathoner with a 2:42 PB set in 2016 and trail runner with a goal of racing a 50-kilometre one day.
Newton
Gravity 12
4/5 Stars | Men | 8.6 oz | 3 mm Drop | US $185
https://www.newtonrunning.com
The Newton Gravity 12 is a lightweight shoe with a roomy toe box and very comfortable, flexible upper. The forefoot lugs give you a propulsive feeling on push off but may feel too firm if you run on your toes. The ride feels like a zero-drop shoe and may require a period of transition. If you love the feeling of the forefoot lugs, it is a great shoe for workouts and interval training.
ALISTAIR MUNRO, Toronto, ON – Run coach for the Toronto Harriers with a love of trail and ultra-funning for the adventure, community and competition.
Nike
Invincible 3 Women’s Road Running Shoes
5/5 Stars | Women | 9.0 oz | 9 mm Drop | $235
www.nike.com
It’s been a long time since I’ve been this excited to try a new shoe. It practically bounced out of the box. At first glance the sole looks beefy, but once on the shoe’s max cushioning offered a soft springy landing with each step. The midfoot is narrower compared to Nike’s Pegasus and feels secure in all the right places while the toe box is roomy. After training in the Pegasus for years, the Invincible 3 might just be my new go-to trainer.
JEN MILLAR, Victoria, B.C – 2x National Masters Cross-Country Champion, Winner of the Times Colonist 10K 2022, Mum to two outdoor adventurers.
Nike
Invincible 3 Men’s Road Running Shoes
5/5 Stars | Men | 11.2 oz | 8.4 mm Drop | $235
www.nike.com
This shoe is a blast to run in. I couldn’t wait to get out the door after putting these on my feet. The ZoomX foam provides crazy amounts of cushioning without feeling bulky. The springy ride of this shoe may take some getting used to depending on what you are familiar with. I got used to it fairly quickly and wouldn’t hesitate to use this shoe as my daily road trainer.
MATT CECIL, Victoria, B.C. – Trail runner and running coach, represented Canada at the Trail World Championships and holds various trail FKTs.
On Running
Cloudmonster
5/5 Stars | Women | 8.1 oz | 6 mm Drop | $209.99
www.on-running.com
Every time I put on an On running shoe, I am impressed by the fit, look, and the obvious durability before I even take a step. These shoes are comfortable, breathable, and light, yet offer great support and durability. Their CloudTec foam pods are super responsive, and the toe bed is plenty wide but still hugs the foot to prevent any movement. I am looking forward to spending more time in the Cloudmonsters, my favourite On shoe yet!
RACHAEL MCINTOSH, Calgary, AB – Retired Team Canada Track and Field athlete turned recreational road and trail runner.
On Running
Cloudrunner
4/5 Stars | Men | 10.6 oz | 9 mm Drop | $179.99
www.on-running.com
This is a high-performance training shoe with a unique design providing excellent support and cushioning for runners. Featuring ON’s signature CloudTec technology, it consists of cushioning pods that compress upon impact and then rebound, providing a comfortable and responsive ride. The shoe’s upper is made of a breathable mesh material that keeps the foot cool and dry, and the outsole provides excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. A great choice for runners looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe.
BLAINE PENNY, Calgary, AB – an elite master’s runner finishing 2nd in 2022 at the Abbott World Major Marathon Age Group Championships, 3x Canadian Ultramarathon Champion, 6x Guinness World Record holder.
PUMA
Deviate Nitro 2
5/5 Stars | Women | 7.4 oz | 6 mm Drop | $210
https://ca.puma.com/ca/en
This shoe is built for extreme comfort and stability. It is light considering the durability it provides and fits comfortably snug with no heel slip or lace mishaps. Its durable outer will hold up in all weather, and I would definitely recommend these shoes for all levels of training!
RACHAEL MCINTOSH, Calgary, AB – Retired Team Canada Track and Field athlete turned recreational road and trail runner.
PUMA
Deviate Nitro 2
5/5 Stars | Men | 9.2 oz | 8 mm Drop | $210
https://ca.puma.com/ca/en
The wonderful combination of cushion and kick results in a gentle foot strike followed by a responsive rebound. A well cradled heel and snug but not crunchy toe box adds to the comfort necessary to make this my long road run training shoe this season.
PETE ESTABROOKS, Calgary, AB – One of Canada’s foremost fitness experts, ultrarunner and coach is happiest when running in the mountains.
Saucony
Ride 16
5/5 Stars | Women | 7.8 oz | 8 mm Drop | $180
www.saucony.ca
Call this your new daily road trainer! The Ride 16 has a fantastic lockdown fit, smooth ride, is sufficiently lightweight, and has copious cushion. This vastly versatile shoe has a secure performance-type fit and also comes in a wide option. The Ride 16 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a shoe that can handle many efforts while still clocking in a significant number of kilometres.
MANDY GILL, Vancouver, B.C. – Ultramarathon runner (road and trail), health expert and international keynote speaker, and IMPACT Top Vegan Athlete.
Saucony
Ride 16
4/5 Stars | Men | 8.8 oz | 8 mm Drop | $180
www.saucony.ca
A versatile light-weight daily trainer, the Saucony Ride 16 hits a chord combining cushion, response and fit. An accommodating toe box, snug heel counter and secure lockdown allows the foot to dictate the ride and entice the runner’s miles.
ANDREW RUSSELL, Saanichton, B.C. – A young parent seeking out roads, trails and mountains with the family, dog and friends. Forever competitive on the road and trail scene.
Skechers
GO RUN RAZOR 4
4/5 Stars | Women | 6.4 oz | 4 mm Drop | $205
www.sketchers.ca
The GO RUN Razor 4 is a lighter-weight training road shoe with a soft ride. The toe box is narrow which may suggest going up half a size for some with wider feet. The insole provides decent support in the medial arch. Considered a performance trainer featuring a carbon-infused plate, this shoe will perform well for some quicker workouts as well as some daily runs. Overall, a decent shoe for training and potentially some races.
CATRIN JONES, Victoria, B.C. – 50 km, 50 mile and 6-hour Canadian record holder.
Skechers
GO RUN RAZOR 4
3.5/5 Stars | Men | 8 oz | 4 mm Drop | $205
www.sketchers.ca
The Razor 4 is best suited for the open road. It features a breathable mono mesh upper with a medium toe box. The cushioned midsole will add a whopping 1-1/2 inches to your standing height. Finishing the shoe is a durable Goodyear outsole with minimal tread. Beyond the lightweight, breathable, and highly cushioned features is most notably the HYPER ARC rocker bottom. The rocker shape is forgiving at any speed and encourages a fast turnover for your next stride.
NATHAN BODEWITZ, Calgary, AB – Founder and head strength coach at Peak Fitness YYC. He is a multi-sport athlete, all around mountain guy, and proud dad.
Topo
Athletic Ultrafly 4
3.5/5 Stars | Women | 7.7 oz | 5 mm Drop | $135
www.topoathletic.com
A super lightweight and cushy road shoe that wraps around my narrow, high-arched foot well with the superior lacing system. There’s a perfect amount of flexibility and stability in the sole, which adds more comfort. The Ultrafly 4 has a wide toe box, and they fit true to size. I wore these in a 12 km road race and was very happy with the performance. The full-length ZipFoam cushioning reduced the impact of racing while my feet still felt light and quick! This is my go-to road shoe right now.
MELISSA ROSS, Nanaimo, B.C. – Competitor at the Canadian 10K Championships, Canadian Cross-Country Championships and World Mountain Running Championships, enjoying running all over Nanaimo with her son in the stroller.
Topo
Specter
5/5 Stars | Men | 8.1 oz | 5 mm Drop | $160
www.topoathletic.com
This is a super light, fast-feeling shoe that could be used for all runs. This shoe is stable enough to use every day, but cushioned enough that once it’s broken in, it will be your go-to shoe for recovery runs and your long runs. The big rocker helps to keep you on your toes and assists in a fast turnover. The single-layer upper provides great breathability and flexibility in the forefoot, and the tighter weave in the midfoot and back of the shoe allows for a secure fit without feeling heavy.
PHIL HIOM, Kamloops, B.C. – After a complete rupture of his Achilles tendon in November, Hiom’s main goal for 2023 is to get back to running with the plan of being back to ultra-trail running by the end of the year.
Vivo Barefoot
Primus Trail Knit FG
5/5 Stars | Women | 8.8 oz | 0 mm Drop | $324
www.vivobarefoot.com/ca
Comfy, stylish and versatile. One of the goals of a minimalist foot-shaped shoe is to allow the small muscles in your feet to activate better to contribute to stability and strength. Transitioning from more of a traditional, supportive shoe to Vivos has been surprisingly easy for me. As a casual runner, this has been a slower transition in order to get my body used to a new way of working. They are worth the price as they are also good for walking, strength training and hiking.
LISETTE CHENG, Vancouver, B.C. – A registered physiotherapist and Certified Hand Therapist mainly working in outpatient orthopaedic trauma at Vancouver General Hospital.
Vivo Barefoot
Primus Trail Knit FG
5/5 Stars | Men | 8.8 oz | 0 mm Drop | $324
www.vivobarefoot.com/ca
The all-around best barefoot shoe on the market, Vivobarefoot places the foot at a mechanical advantage to optimize biomechanics through the kinetic chain. The minimalistic design is the perfect blend of fashion meets function, promoting optimal foot health while maximizing performance. I highly recommend Vivobarefoot for anyone who is looking to take their training to the next level. It starts from the ground up.
MARK CESARI, Vancouver, B.C. – A certified Athletic Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Specialist for nearly 20 years, works with high-profile athletes and has master’s degrees in both Human Movement and Sports Health Care.
Xero Shoes
Forza Runner
4.5/5 Stars | Women | 6.4 oz | 0 mm Drop | $180
www.xeroshoes.com
The all-around best barefoot shoe on the market, Vivobarefoot places the foot at a mechanical advantage to optimize biomechanics through the kinetic chain. The minimalistic design is the perfect blend of fashion meets function, promoting optimal foot health while maximizing performance. I highly recommend Vivobarefoot for anyone who is looking to take their training to the next level. It starts from the ground up.
JOANNA FORD, Calgary, AB – Ultramarathon runner with a passion for running long distances in the mountains.
Xero Shoes
Forza Runner
3/5 Stars | Men | 8.2 oz | 10 mm Drop | $170
www.xeroshoes.com
At a time when max cushioning, carbon plates and super stack heights are ruling the running world, barefoot running is making a comeback of its own. Xero’s Forza Runner is a lighter, more flexible version of the company’s already trimmed-down running shoe. With a sock-like feel and a removable insole for those wanting an even more minimalist feel, it’s not for the faint of heart. But if less is more, this shoe might just be for you.
KEITH BRADFORD, Calgary, AB – Elite masters runner, coach and crisis communications consultant who has worked with athletes at multiple World Cups, World Championships and Olympic Games.
Photography by Graham McKerrell
Read This Story in Our 2023 Running Issue
Featuring Rory Linkletter, Canadian long-distance runner. Add to your bucket list with the top Destination Marathons Around the World. Train for 10 km right up to a marathon – plus a 70.3 program. Increase your strength and work your core with Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers. Enjoy plant-based, post-run breakfasts and so much more.
