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RUNNING SHOE REVIEWS
Welcome to our Running Shoe Review hub – where honest miles meet honest opinions. Whether you're chasing a new PB or just looking for your most comfortable daily trainer, you've come to the right place. Our reviews cut through the hype because we're 100% independent – no sponsorships, no brand bias, just real-world testing by real runners. Every shoe we review is put through its paces so you get the truth about fit, feel, performance, and value. Because when it comes to your run, nothing should slow you down – especially not marketing spin.
LATEST REVIEWS
Brooks Ghost 17 Review: A Well-Balanced Update with a Modern Edge
One of the most significant updates to the Ghost 17 is the increase in stack height. The forefoot now has 26.5 mm (up from 23.5 mm), and the heel has been bumped up to 36.5 mm (up from 35.5 mm).
Hoka Rocket X3 Review: Impressive Updates, But Is It Worth the Price?
I tested the Rocket X3 in a local 10-mile race, a distance that’s always tricky to pace. The standout characteristic of the shoe was its "pickup-ability" – it responded quickly when I surged back to pace after hills or slower sections.
Puma Magnify Nitro 3 Review – Has Puma Taken a Step Back?
The Magnify Nitro 3 slots into Puma’s lineup as a max-cushion daily trainer, comparable to something like the Brooks Ghost Max 3. It’s built for cruising miles with a plush underfoot feel and high stack, but it’s not quite perfect.
Adidas Adizero Prime X3 Strung Review: A Super Shoe for the Brave
The Adidas Adizero Prime X3 Strung is one of the boldest innovations in Adidas’ performance line, built to push the limits of speed, propulsion, and fun. It’s a super shoe with towering stack height, futuristic materials, and an unapologetically aggressive ride.
Altra Experience Flow 2 Review: A Big Step Forward in Comfort and Versatility
The Altra Experience Flow 2 is a smartly updated version of Altra’s mid-drop daily trainer, designed to blend the brand’s natural running philosophy with broader accessibility.
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo – Race Review
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is a fast, fun, and explosive racing shoe that truly shines in the 10K to half marathon range. With its bouncy FlyteFoam Leap midsole and refined heel geometry, it delivers a smooth, gliding ride that makes you feel like a pro—just don’t heel strike.
ASICS Metaspeed Edge Tokyo Review
With a more accommodating fit than earlier versions and a refined foam setup, it’s a serious option for 10K to marathon racing.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 Review: A Super Trainer Refined for Versatility
While some may still prefer earlier versions (like the Speed 3), this latest iteration leans more into being a daily trainer that can race — not the other way around. That shift might not suit everyone, but for most runners, it's a change in the right direction.
Saucony Guide 18 Review: One of the Best Mild Stability Shoes of 2025
If you liked the Guide 17, you'll feel right at home in the Guide 18.
New Balance SC Pacer v2 Review: The Low-Slung Speed Machine You Didn’t Know You Needed
Whether you're smashing parkrun's, going hard in a 10K, or just want a shoe that makes you feel fast, the SC Pacer v2 is well worth a look.
Brooks Ghost Max 3 still shines
The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is a fantastic option if you're after comfort, cushion, and stability in a neutral shoe.
ASICS GEL-Kayano 32: Stability King
The Kayano 32 still earns its spot as the top stability shoe. If you genuinely need stability and comfort for daily training, this shoe delivers.
Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Review – A Long-Run Powerhouse with a Niche Appeal
The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 is a highly capable long-run trainer with a great ride, durable build, and modern tech underfoot.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 Review: Lightweight Speed for the Serious Racer
This shoe is built for performance. The midsole is springy and responsive, the plate provides efficient propulsion, and the stripped-back rubber outsole keeps things light while still offering solid grip.
Adidas Adizero Boston 13 Review: Is It an Upgrade Worth Your Money?
The biggest change in feel comes from the midsole. The Boston 13 is noticeably softer than its predecessor, which was known for a firmer, more stable ride.
Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 Review – Half Marathon Tested
The Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 is a fantastic shoe for half marathon racers and anyone looking to push their speed boundaries.
Hoka Clifton 10 Review: A Versatile Work-Life Running Shoe That Just Works
The Hoka Clifton 10 isn’t flashy or groundbreaking—but it doesn’t need to be. This is a practical, dependable, and comfortable daily trainer that quietly fits into a wide range of everyday scenarios.
ASICS S4+ Yogiri Review: A Balanced Marathon Contender for Everyday Runners
The ASICS S4+ Yogiri fills a much-needed gap in the racing shoe lineup: a high-performance, carbon-plated option that doesn’t demand elite fitness or flawless form to unlock its potential.
Nike Vaporfly 4 Review: A Racing Shoe for the Speed Demons
Nike’s Vaporfly series has been a staple for competitive runners, offering a high-performance shoe that promises both speed and efficiency. The Vaporfly 4 brings some significant changes to the table, but do these adjustments enhance the shoe for everyday runners, or have they made it worse?
ASICS Cumulus 27 Review
The Cumulus 27 is a decent, no-frills daily trainer that offers solid comfort and reliable performance for everyday runners.
Salomon Aero Glide 3 Review
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a fantastic option for runners seeking a lightweight, cushioned, and affordable daily trainer. It offers a stable, comfortable ride for long mileage and is particularly effective for easy-paced runs and recovery days.
Under Armour Hover Infinite Elite Version 2
The Under Armour Hover Infinite Elite Version 2 might just surprise you. Initially, this shoe didn’t seem like something to get excited about. However, after using it more, I’ve realized it has an unexpected strength that makes it stand out in a way I didn’t expect — as a gym shoe.
Saucony Endorphin Trainer Review: A Shoe With an Identity Crisis
The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is the official replacement for the Kinvara Pro—but unfortunately, it stumbles in both purpose and performance.
Nike Vomero 18 Review – A Surprising Return to Form for Nike Running
The Nike Vomero 18 is a strong return to form. After several disappointing attempts in the daily trainer space, Nike has produced a genuinely solid max cushion shoe that everyday runners can trust for their easy and recovery miles
KIPRUN KD900X LD+ – A Promising Super Shoe with a Price Problem
KIPRUN KD900X LD+, a high-performance marathon super shoe developed for elite runners at the Paris Olympics. This review is packed with on-the-ground insights after 20+ miles of testing, offering both high praise and pointed critiques.
Nike Pegasus Premium Review – Honest Thoughts
This shoe isn’t just a miss—it’s a misfire!
Puma FOREVERRUN Nitro 2 Review: A Daily Trainer That Balances Stability and Speed
A worthy upgrade that improves on almost every aspect of the original. Everyday runners will love the balance of support and energy return.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB Review – A Big Step Forward with DNA Gold
Last year, I raced the Watford Half Marathon in the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 with DNA Flash foam, and I was keen to see how the new Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB, now equipped with Brooks’ latest DNA Gold (PEBA-based) midsole, would stack up under the same race conditions in 2025. Spoiler alert: the results were impressive.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Review: Is It Really Worth £180?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 enters the scene as the brand's premium plush daily trainer, loaded with comfort tech, a revamped upper, and the same promise of a soft, stable ride. But with a £180 price tag, is it really worth your money in 2025?
Mizuno Neo Zen Review: Is This Soft Daily Trainer Right for You?
Should You Buy the Mizuno Neo Zen? The Mizuno Neo Zen is a fun, super-soft daily trainer that’s best for easy runs and recovery days. It’s not ideal for heavier runners, overpronators, or those who prefer a more structured upper and firm ride.
Brooks Glycerin 22 Review: A Plush Daily Trainer Gets a Serious Upgrade
This is a big, positive leap forward for the Glycerin line. The DNA Tuned midsole brings this shoe up to speed with modern foam expectations, adding a touch of versatility without losing that plush Brooks comfort longtime fans expect.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2 & Supernova Solution 2 Review
Adidas deserves credit for pushing forward with the Dreamstrike+ foam and moving away from Boost in their daily training lineup. The Supernova Rise 2 and Solution 2 are solid options for runners who appreciate a grounded, reliable feel in their shoes—especially fans of older-school trainers like the Brooks Launch.
Adidas Adizero EVO SL Review: Overhyped or Underrated?
At £130, you're getting full-length Lightstrike Pro and race-inspired design without the premium price tag. It’s not perfect—the laces, tongue, and outsole durability need work—but the ride quality and fun factor more than make up for it.
GET 15% OFF RUNNING SHOES
Grab this huge discount on your next running shoe purchase at Sportsshoes.com by joining FORDY RUNS Running Club as an affiliated club member. This is just one of the benefits of becoming a member but it is one that you will use over and over again! Simply join as an affiliated member, head over to Sportsshoes.com and create an account and add your Club URN number.
DAILY TRAINERS
Brooks Ghost 17 Review: A Well-Balanced Update with a Modern Edge
One of the most significant updates to the Ghost 17 is the increase in stack height. The forefoot now has 26.5 mm (up from 23.5 mm), and the heel has been bumped up to 36.5 mm (up from 35.5 mm).
Altra Experience Flow 2 Review: A Big Step Forward in Comfort and Versatility
The Altra Experience Flow 2 is a smartly updated version of Altra’s mid-drop daily trainer, designed to blend the brand’s natural running philosophy with broader accessibility.
Brooks Ghost Max 3 still shines
The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is a fantastic option if you're after comfort, cushion, and stability in a neutral shoe.
Hoka Clifton 10 Review: A Versatile Work-Life Running Shoe That Just Works
The Hoka Clifton 10 isn’t flashy or groundbreaking—but it doesn’t need to be. This is a practical, dependable, and comfortable daily trainer that quietly fits into a wide range of everyday scenarios.
ASICS Cumulus 27 Review
The Cumulus 27 is a decent, no-frills daily trainer that offers solid comfort and reliable performance for everyday runners.
Salomon Aero Glide 3 Review
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a fantastic option for runners seeking a lightweight, cushioned, and affordable daily trainer. It offers a stable, comfortable ride for long mileage and is particularly effective for easy-paced runs and recovery days.
Nike Vomero 18 Review – A Surprising Return to Form for Nike Running
The Nike Vomero 18 is a strong return to form. After several disappointing attempts in the daily trainer space, Nike has produced a genuinely solid max cushion shoe that everyday runners can trust for their easy and recovery miles
Nike Pegasus Premium Review – Honest Thoughts
This shoe isn’t just a miss—it’s a misfire!
Puma FOREVERRUN Nitro 2 Review: A Daily Trainer That Balances Stability and Speed
A worthy upgrade that improves on almost every aspect of the original. Everyday runners will love the balance of support and energy return.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Review: Is It Really Worth £180?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 enters the scene as the brand's premium plush daily trainer, loaded with comfort tech, a revamped upper, and the same promise of a soft, stable ride. But with a £180 price tag, is it really worth your money in 2025?
Mizuno Neo Zen Review: Is This Soft Daily Trainer Right for You?
Should You Buy the Mizuno Neo Zen? The Mizuno Neo Zen is a fun, super-soft daily trainer that’s best for easy runs and recovery days. It’s not ideal for heavier runners, overpronators, or those who prefer a more structured upper and firm ride.
Brooks Glycerin 22 Review: A Plush Daily Trainer Gets a Serious Upgrade
This is a big, positive leap forward for the Glycerin line. The DNA Tuned midsole brings this shoe up to speed with modern foam expectations, adding a touch of versatility without losing that plush Brooks comfort longtime fans expect.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2 & Supernova Solution 2 Review
Adidas deserves credit for pushing forward with the Dreamstrike+ foam and moving away from Boost in their daily training lineup. The Supernova Rise 2 and Solution 2 are solid options for runners who appreciate a grounded, reliable feel in their shoes—especially fans of older-school trainers like the Brooks Launch.
Adidas Adizero EVO SL Review: Overhyped or Underrated?
At £130, you're getting full-length Lightstrike Pro and race-inspired design without the premium price tag. It’s not perfect—the laces, tongue, and outsole durability need work—but the ride quality and fun factor more than make up for it.
PERFORMANCE COACHING
Unlock your running potential with personalized coaching that delivers results. Our custom training plans and expert guidance help runners of all levels boost speed, endurance, and confidence—so you can hit goals you never thought possible.
RACE DAY
Hoka Rocket X3 Review: Impressive Updates, But Is It Worth the Price?
I tested the Rocket X3 in a local 10-mile race, a distance that’s always tricky to pace. The standout characteristic of the shoe was its "pickup-ability" – it responded quickly when I surged back to pace after hills or slower sections.
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo – Race Review
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo is a fast, fun, and explosive racing shoe that truly shines in the 10K to half marathon range. With its bouncy FlyteFoam Leap midsole and refined heel geometry, it delivers a smooth, gliding ride that makes you feel like a pro—just don’t heel strike.
ASICS Metaspeed Edge Tokyo Review
With a more accommodating fit than earlier versions and a refined foam setup, it’s a serious option for 10K to marathon racing.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 Review: Lightweight Speed for the Serious Racer
This shoe is built for performance. The midsole is springy and responsive, the plate provides efficient propulsion, and the stripped-back rubber outsole keeps things light while still offering solid grip.
Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 Review – Half Marathon Tested
The Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 is a fantastic shoe for half marathon racers and anyone looking to push their speed boundaries.
ASICS S4+ Yogiri Review: A Balanced Marathon Contender for Everyday Runners
The ASICS S4+ Yogiri fills a much-needed gap in the racing shoe lineup: a high-performance, carbon-plated option that doesn’t demand elite fitness or flawless form to unlock its potential.
Nike Vaporfly 4 Review: A Racing Shoe for the Speed Demons
Nike’s Vaporfly series has been a staple for competitive runners, offering a high-performance shoe that promises both speed and efficiency. The Vaporfly 4 brings some significant changes to the table, but do these adjustments enhance the shoe for everyday runners, or have they made it worse?
KIPRUN KD900X LD+ – A Promising Super Shoe with a Price Problem
KIPRUN KD900X LD+, a high-performance marathon super shoe developed for elite runners at the Paris Olympics. This review is packed with on-the-ground insights after 20+ miles of testing, offering both high praise and pointed critiques.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB Review – A Big Step Forward with DNA Gold
Last year, I raced the Watford Half Marathon in the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 with DNA Flash foam, and I was keen to see how the new Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB, now equipped with Brooks’ latest DNA Gold (PEBA-based) midsole, would stack up under the same race conditions in 2025. Spoiler alert: the results were impressive.
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
At FORDY RUNS, our running shoe reviews are honest, transparent, and based on real runner experiences. Watch our YouTube channel for the latest shoe and gear reviews, plus weekly content and a live stream every Monday at 8PM (UK time) where we talk all things running.
SUPER TRAINERS
Adidas Adizero Prime X3 Strung Review: A Super Shoe for the Brave
The Adidas Adizero Prime X3 Strung is one of the boldest innovations in Adidas’ performance line, built to push the limits of speed, propulsion, and fun. It’s a super shoe with towering stack height, futuristic materials, and an unapologetically aggressive ride.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 Review: A Super Trainer Refined for Versatility
While some may still prefer earlier versions (like the Speed 3), this latest iteration leans more into being a daily trainer that can race — not the other way around. That shift might not suit everyone, but for most runners, it's a change in the right direction.
New Balance SC Pacer v2 Review: The Low-Slung Speed Machine You Didn’t Know You Needed
Whether you're smashing parkrun's, going hard in a 10K, or just want a shoe that makes you feel fast, the SC Pacer v2 is well worth a look.
Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Review – A Long-Run Powerhouse with a Niche Appeal
The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 is a highly capable long-run trainer with a great ride, durable build, and modern tech underfoot.
Adidas Adizero Boston 13 Review: Is It an Upgrade Worth Your Money?
The biggest change in feel comes from the midsole. The Boston 13 is noticeably softer than its predecessor, which was known for a firmer, more stable ride.
Saucony Endorphin Trainer Review: A Shoe With an Identity Crisis
The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is the official replacement for the Kinvara Pro—but unfortunately, it stumbles in both purpose and performance.
Adidas Adizero EVO SL Review: Overhyped or Underrated?
At £130, you're getting full-length Lightstrike Pro and race-inspired design without the premium price tag. It’s not perfect—the laces, tongue, and outsole durability need work—but the ride quality and fun factor more than make up for it.
FORDY RUNS RUNNING CLUB
Join FORDY RUNS—the UK’s largest free running club with over 50 local groups meeting weekly. Enjoy free group runs, exclusive giveaways, and events all year round. Whether you're new to running or chasing a PB, we've got your back every step of the way.
MAX STACK
Puma Magnify Nitro 3 Review – Has Puma Taken a Step Back?
The Magnify Nitro 3 slots into Puma’s lineup as a max-cushion daily trainer, comparable to something like the Brooks Ghost Max 3. It’s built for cruising miles with a plush underfoot feel and high stack, but it’s not quite perfect.
Under Armour Hover Infinite Elite Version 2
The Under Armour Hover Infinite Elite Version 2 might just surprise you. Initially, this shoe didn’t seem like something to get excited about. However, after using it more, I’ve realized it has an unexpected strength that makes it stand out in a way I didn’t expect — as a gym shoe.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Review: Is It Really Worth £180?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 enters the scene as the brand's premium plush daily trainer, loaded with comfort tech, a revamped upper, and the same promise of a soft, stable ride. But with a £180 price tag, is it really worth your money in 2025?
STABILITY
Saucony Guide 18 Review: One of the Best Mild Stability Shoes of 2025
If you liked the Guide 17, you'll feel right at home in the Guide 18.
ASICS GEL-Kayano 32: Stability King
The Kayano 32 still earns its spot as the top stability shoe. If you genuinely need stability and comfort for daily training, this shoe delivers.
Puma FOREVERRUN Nitro 2 Review: A Daily Trainer That Balances Stability and Speed
A worthy upgrade that improves on almost every aspect of the original. Everyday runners will love the balance of support and energy return.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2 & Supernova Solution 2 Review
Adidas deserves credit for pushing forward with the Dreamstrike+ foam and moving away from Boost in their daily training lineup. The Supernova Rise 2 and Solution 2 are solid options for runners who appreciate a grounded, reliable feel in their shoes—especially fans of older-school trainers like the Brooks Launch.
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