The 2026 Women’s Health Sneaker Awards Winners Are In — These Game-Changing Kicks Will Revolutionize Your Workout!

When it comes to cushioning, the more the better, if you ask Luppino. As someone who logs a lot of miles, she’s always looking for a shoe to help alleviate the repeated impact—and the Superblasts do just that. “These sneakers are the real deal if you’re someone who likes a lot of cushion. They’re soft but they really propel you forward,” she says. “With these, I don’t have to decide between fast and protective.” In addition to their noticeable energy return, the Superblasts are lightweight, with a comfortable, breathable material, making them perfect for everyday training.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS should be at the top of your list if you’re in need of more stability and structure. Brooks’s GuideRails technology prevents excess motion in the heel, shin, and knees, making these shoes a great choice for overpronators. “They felt great to run in,” says WH digital designer Leanne Mattern. “They had the perfect amount of cushion, there’s a lot of room near the top of the foot, and the material is soft and stretchy.” Peralta-Mitchell, an RRCA-certified run coach, cosigns, noting the shoes are also lightweight, stable, and complement her natural stride.

“After testing multiple sneakers in their collection, the Adizero Evo SL has become my favorite Adidas running shoe by far,” Luppino says. These speedy sneaks have a cushion that manages to be thick and lightweight at the same time, thanks to the brand’s Lightstrike Pro foam—making it a great option for runners who want that barely-there feel with all the benefits of a max-cushioned shoe. The upper mesh is soft and light while still maintaining a strong hold. Bonus: At $150, they’re in the lower range for high-performance running shoes, with some colorways dipping closer to $100. A steal!

The New Balance Ellipse made one of the biggest statements in running shoes in 2026. It’s cushioned while still giving you some groundfeel—and super versatile. It’s Luppino’s go-to for travel, when you really need a sneaker to fulfill multiple purposes: get you through training runs, accompany you to the gym in a pinch, and fit seamlessly in with your travel outfits. Miller was also a fan of the sneaks, highlighting their lightweight, supportive, and responsive feel. “I could definitely feel the difference in how smooth my stride was,” she says.

“After I completed my first run in these shoes, I Googled, ‘Are the Aero Glides carbon-plated?’ That’s how fast they are,” Luppino says. They’re not—in fact, they’re not even marketed as a speed shoe. During a casual 5K training run, these max-cushioned shoes shaved 30 seconds off Luppino’s warm-up lap, then an additional minute…and then an additional 30 seconds per mile, all with ease. The cushioning strikes the perfect balance of thick and protective while still being firm and reactive, so you can put up some serious numbers, even over long distances. “They allow me to speed up without feeling like I’m putting in extra effort,” Luppino says—a runner’s dream.

There are a lot of pros to Saucony’s Endorphin Azura. Per WH research chief Jennifer Messimer, they’re comfortable and roomy in the toe area, and per Dr. Matzkin, they’re lightweight, propulsive, and balanced. “What stood out most about these was how responsive they felt,” Dr. Matzkin says. “Compared to the more cushioned shoes I usually run in, these felt faster and more performance-oriented.” She’d reach for these on tempo or speed days—anything shorter and faster. The sneaks have Saucony’s soft yet bouncy PWRRUN PB foam for cushioned support while you pound the pavement and SpeedRoll technology to make transitions between steps smoother. They’re a performance-focused shoe to carry you on your next 5K or 10K race.

The Mach 7 is one of Hoka’s top speed shoes, and for good reason. “They’re very responsive,” says health director and triathlete Marty Munson. “I was surprised to see speeds higher than I usually run while putting out the same effort.” The shoes are light and neutral, and they perform great under slippery conditions too. The feel is just right for runners looking for a speedy edge. “They’re the Goldilocks of run shoes for me: not too cushiony, not too springy,” Munson says. “It’s not like running on mattresses, but it’s also not a ‘hard’ ride—you don’t feel the road.”

Want to show off at your next run club? Try turning up in a pair of Kipruns—a French brand that just launched in the U.S. in April this year. As its name implies, the Kipride Max is a max-cushioned shoe that feels like you’re running on pillows in the best way possible, Luppino says. They’re plush but responsive, they’re protective with each shock-absorbing step, and they keep you comfortable on easy and long runs alike. Plus, they’re cute—and will have everyone at run club asking, “Where’d you get those?!”

Altra’s Experience Flow 3 is light, comfortable in the toe box, formfitting in the midfoot, and secure around the ankle, says Marli Higa, WH copy group director and a longtime runner. Beyond that, “they were cushiony in the sole but gave great groundfeel—I never once felt unstable or out of touch with the track or treadmill surface,” she says. Sometimes when shoes are too cushioned, you don’t get as good a sense of the ground below your feet, which can have an effect on performance and control. As a sprinter, Higa loves these shoes for speed work because the flexibility allows her forefoot to really push off the ground during faster intervals. Plus, at four millimeters with a midlevel of cushioning, they have a low heel-to-toe drop. They rival—and may even beat—Higa’s go-to sneaker for a speedy race shoe.

Not everyone logs their miles in a park—many runners need to put in the time indoors. Reebok’s FloatZig Tread is designed specifically for treadmill warriors. In a world of super-max cushioning, these sneaks keep things simple, to allow runners more control on their tread. They also have a secure fit. “They conformed to the shape of my foot, like I wasn’t wearing shoes at all,” says visual editor Sabrina Toto. Plus, they’re lightweight, breathable, supportive, and flexible, she adds.

Looking to stand out? Look no further than R.A.D.’s UFO. With this sneaker, you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for performance. “They’re insanely comfortable,” says Aloian. “I wore these for long runs and interval runs, and they’re just as good as–if not better than–my typical favorite running shoes.” Though they’re “ultra-cushioned,” as she calls it, the shape of these sneakers keeps her balanced and steady.

Don’t sleep on Diadora, say our testers. “This was my introduction to wearing Diadora, and I was pleasantly surprised,” Peralta-Mitchell says. As shoes get more and more cushioned, their heel-to-toe drop tends to increase, which can have an effect on running form. These have a lower drop at five millimeters. The benefits, per Peralta-Mitchell: improving full-body alignment and promoting a more natural posture. Despite the lower drop, the sneaker still absorbed impact well. “It felt like a layer of protection between my foot and the impact of each step,” she says. “Knowing I can get both—added absorption and a lower drop—was a win-win!”

The North Face Altamessa 500 V2s hit all the marks of a top-notch trail shoe: They are sturdy and stable, lightweight with room in the toe box, comfortably cushioned, and have lots of traction. Their serrated laces are also a nice touch to ensure they’re kept in place and tied (especially important on the trail!). “I didn’t slip, felt supported, and had no irritation, even on the first use with no breaking-in period,” says Jaime Marsanico, WH’s senior director of public relations. With four-millimeter lugs (those little protruding bumps that give the sole its grip), these shoes can keep you firmly planted on soft and slippery ground.

The Merrell Agility Peak 6 is the perfect shoe for someone who wants to jump from the trail to the road, and everywhere in between. “I’ve been reaching for this sneaker a lot lately—they’re just plain right-out-of-the-box comfortable and feel super stable under the foot,” says Andriakos. “The traction is legit; I’ve worn them on a wooded trail near my house and even tested them on the sand at the beach, and they felt secure on both.” Another perk? Despite being able to hold up to all kinds of conditions with their Vibram outsole and five-millimeter lugs, the shoes don’t look super rugged, so they can chameleon their way into running errands without making you look like you’re in full hiking gear.

With their thick cushion, the Teva Hurricane Trailsetters have an “orthopedic vibe,” says Higa—that’s how comfy they are. Still, for those seeking more rugged terrain, they manage to be cushioned and light and fitted, she says. They’ve also got a durable outsole, making them ready to take on different conditions. One cool feature? Their laceless design. They’re best on asphalt, dirt, and gravel, but since they have less groundfeel than a less-cushioned shoe, they may not be the best for super rocky terrain.

The Drive 2 moves seamlessly between different modalities. “I’m not a runner, but with the warmer weather, running will pop up more often in our programming,” says art director Christine Giordano, an avid CrossFitter. “I felt confident I could complete the run shin splint–free and still get to the bar to do my lifts.” That’s not all: “The textured treads keep you grounded to the floor for lifting. It is also great for the last-minute push on the air bike. No slipping with those treads!” she adds. The fit is snug and sock-like, says Dr. Matzkin, who highlights that they provide a nice, stable base for lifting and a firm underfoot to support balance and lateral movements too. Basically, no matter what you want to do in the gym, the Drive 2 can support your mission.

Stable, grounded, controlled, and secure—that’s how Miller describes the Metcon 10s. “The flat sole makes a huge difference on lower-body days,” she says. “I felt locked in during squats, lunges, and deadlifts.” The shoes fit true-to-size and have a minimal amount of cushioning. Whether you’re a beginner ready for proper support on your exercise journey or a seasoned lifter, these shoes are great for people who are focused on building muscle, improving form, and getting stronger, Miller says.

The Adidas Dropset 4 is super stable. “I’ve never had a shoe make a bigger difference in my balance than these,” Luppino says. “I do a lot of single-leg work in the gym because I’m a runner, and now I realize what a difference the right shoe can make.” They’re also comfortable, breathable, and moldable, allowing you to do all the moves you need to. Another benefit? Flatter, more stable shoes are key to nailing heavier lifts in particular, adds Ritchey.

Designed specifically with HIIT and circuits in mind, the On Cloudpulse 2 is for someone whose workouts aren’t one-note, says Andriakos. “The Cloudpulse 2s really shine for me in a class setting where I’m doing a little bit of everything,” she says. “They feel stable and supportive—especially for lateral movements—but still have enough responsiveness that they don’t feel stiff or clunky.” The shoes still rock the signature On bubbly sole, but with less cushion than the brand’s running shoes, making them more stable for hybrid training. And because the gym may just be one stop on your list, it’s worth mentioning that they don’t look super gym-specific and you can wear them to run errands or go on a walk afterward.

Puma and Hyrox teamed up to create a bespoke shoe just for the competition. The result? A shoe with strong energy return and a dynamic feel. “Compared to my usual training shoes, these felt faster and more performance driven, like they actually help you move better—perfect for when you’re mixing running with strength or circuit-style workouts,” Miller says. She didn’t compete in a Hyrox during testing, but it’s clear the strengths of this shoe translate. “They’re very lightweight and super responsive, so great for the running portions, and versatile enough for the strength stations where you’re constantly moving.”

“Loved these!” Peralta-Mitchell says. “The shoe I didn’t know I needed.” They’re lightweight, durable, and supportive—while still giving you maximum groundfeel for a better gym session. “With this zero-drop shoe, I felt natural in my movement,” she says. “It felt flexible yet the sole was sturdy, providing foot stability for weights or bodyweight.” Plus, the pull laces are convenient and help keep things in place.

The Pace Rise is podiatrist-approved, has a “downright orthotic feel,” says Andriakos, and is designed specifically for walking. “The cushioning is built to absorb impact and help make each step feel soft and plush, which makes them especially good for longer walks or being on your feet all day,” Andriakos says. They run a little wide, making them the perfect pair for people looking for a roomier fit in their walking shoes.

“The Vionic Walk Slim Glide Sneaker gives chunky dad sneaker in the chicest way possible,” Luppino says. These shoes deliver on comfort, with a flexible, lightweight insole and a contoured arch for natural walking alignment. You can easily make this pair your daily go-to for work, running errands, or any other moment when you want a comfy sneaker that also makes a fashion statement.

Since she got these shoes to test, Ritchey says the Alo Sunset sneakers have become a mainstay in her rotation. “They’re so comfortable; they hug your feet perfectly,” she says. “They kind of mold to you, so the toe spacing and the width were perfect.” Andriakos is also a supporter. “I always go for my Alo Sunsets when I want a pair of sneakers that makes an outfit feel a little more polished but I know I’ll be on my feet,” she says. “The silhouette is really sleek and low-profile, which makes them easy to style with everything from leggings to work outfits.”

The Veil is a shoe everyone wants to get their hands on. It’s the newest release from Athletic Propulsion Labs, a brand that blends high-performance shoes with luxury fashion. These shoes have a solid, comfortable sole with a slight bounce to keep you moving forward—run or walk. “The Veil has a noticeable responsiveness that makes walking in them feel really easy, especially on longer days on my feet—and at 38 weeks pregnant,” Andriakos says. They’re lightweight and breathable, secure on the foot, and have an on-trend pulley lace system. At $350, they’re the most expensive shoe on our list, but they’re worth the splurge.

Pro tip: If you want a really good walking shoe, try browsing the running section. This pick from Under Armour is made for runners—but they make all the difference for walkers too. With UA’s HOVR+ foam, each step is cushioned with a slight energy return to keep you moving. Plus, the shoe has built-in stability and structure, giving you the control you need on a walk. “I can walk for miles without feeling any aching in my feet,” Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, an associate health and fitness editor, says.

Special projects director (and new mom) Amanda Lucci calls her Kiziks a “mom shoe”—in the best way possible. “These are my new go-to when I’m quickly running out of the house, because they go on hands-free,” she says. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten my son packed up to leave the house, I’ve got him in my arms, plus a diaper bag, plus a water bottle, plus my phone, plus whatever else I need…but I don’t have my shoes on yet. These slip on easily and quickly and let me run out the door, no matter what I’ve got balanced in my arms.” They were comfortable right out of the box—no annoying breaking-in period—and kept her comfortable chasing her son around on the playground. And they’re for the cool moms, too. The Siena comes in a range of fashionable colorways.

These sneaks from Lululemon are cute, lightweight, and versatile—which makes them a good pair to pack for travel, when you need to narrow down your selection. “They were very breathable and seemed to be adaptable for both walking and running all kinds of distances,” says social editor Alyssa Cruz. They have a ShiftFoam midsole and a rocker shape to help keep you moving, plus arch support to support a natural footstrike as you take the streets. (Fit note: These have a narrower fit.)

Not all walking shoes need to be overly cushioned; these from Veja have a minimal sole, keeping you closer to the ground, if you’re someone looking for less cushioning and bulkiness in a sneaker. “These are super lightweight and flexible, almost to the point where you forget you have them on,” Andriakos says. They also have a wider toe box, giving your foot plenty of room to breathe.

As a step-in shoe, “the Arch Fit Glide-Step Pro marries form with function,” Nicole Saunders, beauty editor, says. You can quickly and easily slide the shoe on and off without ever needing to bend down and tie your laces. (Think of the possibilities: a quicker TSA line experience, added accessibility if you’re not easily able to get your shoes on and off, and beyond!) Plus, the sneaks have the perfect level of cushioning and arch support, Saunders says.

Cruz took the Columbia Tellurix Titanium OutDry for a spin on a recent hiking trip—and was blown away by their grip as she climbed rocks and boulders. “I absolutely loved these shoes for hiking,” she says. “I wore them on a hike that had a pretty steep incline that was slippery from rain the night before, and they performed really well.” More breathable and comfortable for long walks on rugged terrain, the shoes avoid all the clunkiness of a hiking boot. They boast a durable Vibram sole, OutDry waterproof technology, and cushioning that provides stability, comfort, and energy return to keep you moving.

With the Keen Targhee Apex, you get all the comfort and sturdiness of legit hiking boots without actually needing to lug around clunky shoes. These sneakers are lightweight, responsive, and waterproof—an outdoorsy trifecta—to keep you comfy on long hikes. They have great cushion support and a large, roomy toe box, and they hold up to the elements. “I will definitely be wearing these often on the trail,” Dangi McCoy, WH’s deputy visual director, says.

If you need a shoe that can handle loose terrain, slippery rocks, and everything in between, Sorel has you covered. The Callsign Horizon is a “waterproof, rugged sneaker blending outdoor durability with everyday comfort,” says Dr. Matzkin. They have a Vibram sole for better traction and are made of Gore-Tex materials to keep you dry. “I liked the durability and all-weather capability—they feel sturdy, supportive, and protective, especially in wet or uneven conditions,” she says.

Legendary tennis brand Wilson specifically designed the Intrigue Tour shoe for the female foot, and it makes all the difference. The insoles have plenty of padding, giving them a plush feel, without sacrificing the stability you need to make quick cuts and turns. “The shoes were fast and responsive,” says tester Susan Choung, a Hearst recipe editor who plays competitive tennis on eight USTA teams. “They provided good stability for my ankles, which is important because there’s a lot of zigzag motion in tennis!”

A shoe just for pickleball? Yes, it is that serious. Andriakos’s mom, Trish, is a senior league devotee, and took the Legacy Pro out for a spin for us. They have a firmer, more solid base—an advantage on the court: “You can land hard on your feet and not feel a lot of lateral pull or instability,” she says. Plus, the more you wear the shoes, the grippier their InfiniGrip traction becomes. The shoes helped her stay grounded and planted with each movement and step. Wide-foot girlies, size up—these run on the narrower side.

The Koto 1 is an all-around court shoe for the player who wants to do it all, whether it’s tennis, pickleball, or padel. They’re secure and stable, safely aiding the movement you need to dominate the court. “They’re grippy, flat, and they allow you to make quick pivots without feeling like you’re tripping over your own feet,” Andriakos says. “I did find the footbed to be a wider fit, but even though I have narrower feet, I was very comfortable in this shoe.”

The Lems Primal Zen is a minimalist sneaker built for everyday movement, whether that’s on city streets or the trail. It has a zero drop platform and flexible cork sole, giving you that barefoot feel, but the material is durable and stands up to rugged terrain. “These shoes are super comfy and the barefoot style is grippy, so even if you are on uneven terrain, you are able to feel the path,” says Janie Booth, a video producer. Some are even sporting these shoes in the gym—they can truly do it all.

This sneaker was designed with Easy Spirit’s EMOVE technology, which provides cushioning and absorption on every step for comfortable walking. The shoes have arch support, are orthotic-friendly and lightweight, and come in wide sizes. “They really fit well right off the bat,” says Gillian MacLeod, art director. “No weird pain or soreness. It was lovely!”

Expensive doesn’t always mean better when it comes to running shoes. The Devotion Running Sneaker from Ryka delivers everything you need to log your miles—at a price everyone can appreciate. “I really liked these compared to their more expensive counterparts,” says Ritchey. “They’re cushioned but not so much that I felt wobbly, like I often do in other running sneakers.” The absorbent cushioning gives you a strong energy return, and the shoes are designed specifically for women, with a narrower heel, wider toe box, and contoured cushioning.

Affordable, comfortable, and fashionable is the ideal combo, and these shoes from Naturalizer check every box. “I kind of can’t believe how cute and comfortable these are for the price—they really surprised me!” Andriakos says. “They’re low-profile and easy to style, but feel good right out of the box with no break-in at all, which is rare for me with this type of silhouette.” They come in multiple widths and many color, print, and material options, so you can find a pair to fit your style.

A max-cushioned, slip-on walking and running shoe for $60? Sounds too good to be true—but it’s not. This find from Allswifit gives you extra comfort for long walks, a springy boost with every step, and a steady grip on all surfaces. “I love how comfortable the shoe is,” says Taryn Colbert, a digital designer. “It feels as though it’s a therapy shoe.”

Sneakers to work? Groundbreaking. The Adrei features Aldo’s Pillow Walk technology, with dual-density foam and padded insoles for extra comfort, but the outside makes it look like a regular fashion sneaker. “These sneakers are cute and versatile,” says Giordano. “I’ve stopped wearing heels or basically any form of a fancy shoe, so I’m always on the hunt for sneakers I can wear with my skirts and dresses.” They also have a platform for some extra height. For Katie Mogg, beauty editorial assistant, the shoes stand the test of time, giving her that pillowy feel after logging several miles around NYC.

Dr. Scholl’s Walk Mode Sneaker keeps you comfortable and supported—perfect for daily wear. “In keeping with my New Year’s resolution, walking has become my main form of exercise,” says associate copy editor Deanna Martin. “I look for sneakers with cushioned soles that make the sidewalk feel softer and provide enough support on subway stairs so my knees don’t take the impact. These Dr. Scholl’s shoes are just right for my needs.”

These open-backed shoes from Kane are perfect for slipping on and off before and after workouts or on days when your feet need a comfy shoe. “The fit is snug and safe—they don’t feel like they are going to fly off my feet,” Laura McLaughlin, managing editor, says. The shoes are airy, supportive, and comfortable. Plus, “they look sharp and stylish,” she adds.