����vlog

September marks the start of fall running season, but are you lacing up in the right shoes? The National Consumer Unit teamed up with our Hearst partners at Men's Health and Women's Health to break down this year's top-performing running shoes for every stride. Here are some of their expert-approved picks, each of which comes in a men's version and a women's version: Best for beginners: Hoka Clifton 10 The Hoka Clifton 10 is designed with maximum cushioning, making it a strong option for new runners easing into longer distances.“With every step, you're really taking that impact out of your joints,” said Jacqueline Andriakos, executive health and fitness director at Women’s Health. “You may not pick this shoe for speed, but if you're going any distances and you want really plush comfort, this is excellent for recovery runs, this is excellent if you're changing paces, jogging to running, it's a really great pick.”Best for all-around training: Adidas Adizero EVO SL The Adidas Adizero EVO SL is versatile enough for short jogs, speed workouts and even long runs up to marathon distance.“I love it because I can lace it up for short runs, long runs, speed workouts, and even if I wanted to, races,” said Brett Williams, senior editor at Men’s Health. “I would go from a 5K, maybe even up to a marathon in this shoe. But the thing I think that I like the most is that it looks so good, and I can be just as confident lacing it up to walk out the door as I would be to go on a run.”Best for marathons: Brooks Ghost 17 For those preparing for long-distance runs, experts recommend the Brooks Ghost 17 for its balance of cushioning and firmness.“If you're gearing up for your first race, a half or a full marathon, the Ghost 17 is a great option because that balance of cushion and firmness is really going to support you for any number of miles,” Andriakos said. Why fit mattersExperts emphasize that the right shoe is personal. What works for one runner might not work for another, making proper fit essential.“We generally recommend that people try to find a specialty running shoe store in your area, if one is available, to go and be fitted by an employee,” Williams said. “If not, and especially if you’re ordering online, make sure that before you make your final decision, you walk around in a shoe, maybe get a quick run in and then decide if it feels right on your foot.”When to replace your shoes Most running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles, when cushioning begins to break down and support diminishes.“I always recommend that you should look at the wear and tear on that sole where your foot is striking the ground,” Andriakos said. “You'll start to notice wear and disintegration. And also in that midsole, you often see creasing or puckering when the cushion is starting to get too compressed.”How much to spendA quality running shoe typically starts around $100. While that may seem steep, experts say it’s a smart investment compared to cheaper pairs you’ll have to replace more often. The right shoe not only lasts longer — it helps protect your joints and keeps you running stronger. Need more recommendations? Check out the 2025 Sneaker Awards from Men's Health here and Women's Health here.