Best Running Shoes for Older Runners Reviews 2022

Running is one of the best forms of exercise for any age. It helps you build powerful muscles, steady legs, better cardio-respiratory health and stronger immune system. However, as you age, you may experience limitations in your motions because of tissue mass loss. You may also notice lesser strength and stability.

As your age increases, your risks to injury during running also increases. This is because of muscle and bone changes, which can sometimes lead to certain medical conditions.

This, however, should not stop you from running or doing any form of physical activity. Wearing shoes that accommodate and support the structure of your foot can help you avoid injuries, discomfort and pain during your run.

Careful selection of running shoes is essential for older runners. Different brands and models of running shoes offer its users various benefits, but choosing the best among the different types may take time and effort on your part. To help you find the right footwear, we reviewed different running shoes for older runners and compiled the ten best models in the market for you.

Reviews Of 10 Best Running Shoes for Older Runners

1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe

The ASICS Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoes is best for adventurous runners who love challenging themselves by taking on rugged terrains. With its high durability, marathon proven quality and support, and reasonable price, these shoes will make runners of any age comfortable and happy during their run.

Features

ASICS Gel-Venture 6 offers a sporty and casual look. It has a breathable and flexible synthetic mesh upper. And features a lace up design for a snug fit. The shoe’s tongue and collar have padded cushions for extra support. The sock liner inside is removable and allows for medical orthotics. It is thick and offers a semi-rigid padding.

This footwear’s midsole contains a GEL cushioning system which provides stunning shock absorption, adds stability, and gives you a fluent transition in your gait cycle. Its shaft offers excellent arch support for those with flat feet, however, those with high arches may need to have a bit more padding.

Gel-Venture 6’s rubber outsole features reversed lugs that offer high abrasion and plenty of grip in various terrains, whether uphill or downhill. This gives the shoes optimum performance when running in trails. To ensure maximum support and durability, critical areas in the outsole are equipped with ASIC’s trademarked high abrasion rubber.

These shoes come in a variety of color combinations so you can express your personal style better. With its support features, it is one of the best shoes for old runners who suffer from heel pain and plantar fasciitis.

2. Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoe

Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoes are perfect for neutral runners who need lightweight but well cushioned shoes. These shoes do not specialize in any specific area, but are versatile enough to handle any type of run. The Ghost 12 is great for both long and short distance running, for walking around or for doing body weight exercises.

The Ghost 12 works for many kinds of runners because it offers a smooth and neutral ride and seamless gait transition.

Features

Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoes offers a lot of comfort right outside the box. It has a 3D footprint engineered mesh upper and lace up design. This adapts to your foot, providing you with plush comfort, a secure fit and good breathability.

Its spacious toe box and high clearance also offer more room for your toes. The ankle collar, tongue, and easy to take in and out liners are all well padded to give you the extra comfort you deserve in every run.

The best feature of these shoes is its BioMoGo DNA loft cushioning system spread throughout the soles. This offers a balanced and soft cushioning underfoot. It has a 12 millimeter drop midsole made of finely calibrated EVA foam rubber that provides a firm and sturdy arch support. These features combined builds the responsiveness of the run, adding an extra speed to your every stride.

Ghost 12’s outer soles feature a segmented crash pad and ridges, allowing you to have a smoother landing and stunning traction even on wet surfaces. It also gives a nice natural curvature helping you as you take off.

With a wide range of colors and designs to choose from, you can pair the Ghost 12 with any casual or athletic attire. These shoes are reliable on the go shoes for both older men and women.

3. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Running Shoe

If you are looking for best running shoes for older runners with a sleek design that offers a runner’s data comfort, New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Running Shoes is the perfect option for you. This flexible and stretchy footwear gives you a slipper like feel while offering a nice cushioned ride.

As a neutral shoe in the New Balance line, the 1080 V10 is not suitable to use as speed workout shoes, but it makes an amazing everyday trainer.

Features

The New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V10 is a max cushioned running shoe. It features a leather mesh upper, a super soft hypo knit, a stitched down tip, and foxing details that offer you flexible support. It’s structured heel counter holds the heel in place without irritating the Achilles because it flares away from the foot.

It has a roomy toe box that stretches if you have extra wide feet. Its tongue is filled with medium amount of foam for soft padding. It also has partial gusseting to avoid tongue slides. Equipped with a supportive trace fiber stitching on the midfoot, the 1080 V10 provides a lightweight structure.

With the Fresh Foam X technology on its midsole, the 1080 V10 feels soft to the touch but isn’t soft underfoot, giving you the right amount of plushiness you need. Equipped with ABZORB technology, the midsole also offers stunning shock absorption and compression resistance for a snappy ride and smooth transitions.

Its blown rubber outsole comprises five separate lug sections for a strong grip on surfaces, while its rocker shape enhances your running pace. The 1080 V10 is a solid trainer that gives you a lively and responsive ride. With neutral to bold tones to choose from, these shoes make you run in style as well.

4. Saucony Men’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe

The VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoes by Saucony is great for budget-minded men who are looking for trainers that offer a consistent and comfortable ride. Designed for beginner runners, the Cohesion 12 is a solid-looking shoe that gives you plenty of cushioning and holds up to long miles.

Features

The Cohesion 12 is impressively lightweight. It has a breathable synthetic mesh upper and rubber overlays that add protection. The upper is fully seamed for durability and it features a lace up design for a snug fit. The interior, however, does not include a sock liner so you may always need to wear socks while running.

These trainers use Saucony’s trademarked VERSAFOAM cushioning technology on its midsoles. This provides you with sufficient cushion and shock absorption while running or walking.

It has a 12 mm drop, allowing it to offer stunning support for older runners with Achilles tendon issues and those who need to wear shoes with slightly elevated heels.

Cohesion 12’s outsoles are made from durable rubber that offers good traction on dry surfaces. However, you may want to exert extra caution when running on wet surfaces since it doesn’t hold as much grip compared to its competitors. Despite this, the outsoles are long lasting and can hold up to several miles without tearing.

Overall, Saucony’s Cohesion 12  delivers quality performance despite some limitations. Considering the technology that comes with it at a cheap price, these shoes rank among the best running shoes for older runners in the market.

5. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 20

Older women who need the perfect blend of cushion, support and flexibility in their running shoes would love Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20. Its featured GuideRails support system and modernized fit allow you to deliver speed with utmost foot comfort.

Its low profile look and wide range of designs enable you to pair these shoes with any athletic and casual attire. You can even use it in your day-to-day activities.

Features

GTS 20 is the 20th edition of the Adrenaline GTS line so you can expect it to have the best features the line offers. Designed for the roadrunner, GTS 20 contains Brook’s responsive BioMoGo cushion stacked above its DNA Loft crash pad. This technology helps protect your foot by adapting to every stride you make. It also gives you a nice bounce on hard surfaces.

It has an engineered 3D fit mesh upper that snugly wraps your feet. It is breathable and lightweight, offering you a fresh and comfy run. The well-cushioned collar and luxe padded tongue aids in supporting your ankle. Its removable footbed provides high energizing cushioning for that responsive, springy stride.

GTS 20’s best feature is its improved GuideRails system that encourages the proper alignment of knees to reduce your risk of injury while running. The outer soles have deep V grooves and a segmented crash pad that gives lots of grip and smoother transitions. Aside from road running, these shoes are also ideal for gym and cross training use.

6. Nike Women’s Flex Experience Run 8 Shoe

If you are looking for best running shoes for older runners that contour your every step while delivering a lightweight comfort, the Nike Women’s Flex Experience Run 8 Shoes is the perfect choice. These shoes perfectly combine comfort and style. Aside from running, you can use the Flex Experience 8 in the gym or for walking around.

Features

The Flex Experience 8 is really lightweight and great for the road. It has a breathable textile upper with padding throughout the collar and tongue. This design allows the shoes to snugly hug your feet for natural movement. The no sew overlay at the toe tip and laces adds to the shoes’ durability. It also has a back pull tab for easy wearing.

Inside, you’ll find a soft fabric lining that ensures comfort for your feet. The removable foam insoles gives added cushioning and arch support.

It has a file on foam on the midsoles offering great flexibility, cushioning and durability. The rounded heel mimics the foot’s shape enabling the shoes to roll naturally with each step.

The bottom gives you a lightweight solid rubber under the toes and heel for that reliable traction and a long mileage. The flex groove design on the outsole also enhances the shoes’ flexibility.

7. Reebok Men’s Floatride Run Fast Shoe

The Reebok Men’s Floatride Run Fast Shoes offer a performance fit for professional runners. Built for speed, these shoes offer almost everything that a runner needs whether you are running for fun or competitively. These versatile and well-cushioned shoes naturally put you on your toes, even when you are running a marathon.

Features

The Floatride Run Fast Shoes feature a flex weave upper engineered for flexibility. It hugs your foot and moves as it does, flexing with your movement from heel to toe. The mesh has several perforations for an enhanced breathability. Upfront, you’ll find a toe cap for added toe protection.

The tongue, the collars and the insides are well cushioned with a fabric engineered to reduce irritation and friction. It is equipped with a molded sock liner that gives you contoured cushioning and a well-padded removable insole to make sure that your feet are super comfortable.

These shoes’ crowning achievement is its Floatride Energy Foam technology, composed of a thermoplastic Pebax. This allows the shoes to be incredibly lightweight and springy, propelling you to enhanced speed.

It also has a stabilizing EVA foam rim that ensures the balance of your foot throughout your entire gait cycle. Its full carbon rippled rubber outsole adds traction and it has a heel counter on the back for heel stability.

Reebok’s Floatride Run Fast Shoes holds up to its name. These high performance running shoes provide support with every step you take and propels you as you race.

8. Mizuno Men’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoe

The Mizuno Men’s Wave Rider 22 Running Shoes is best suited for neutral runners, heel strikers and for those who have underpronation feet. These high mileage, solid go-to, everyday shoes give you a responsive run and make concrete waves feel smoother with every step.

Features

Rider 22 Running Shoes have a lightweight flexible response and a 12 millimeter heel to toe drop, making it a great option for runners with high arch. It has a two layer engineered stretch mesh upper with Mizuno’s DynaMotion Fit that allows the shoes to seamlessly fit to your feet.

Designed with an intercool ventilation system, these shoes reduce heat and keep your feet feeling fresh and cool even on long runs. You also get a lot of comfort in your ankle area with its well-cushioned collar.

Rider 22’s main feature is Mizuno’s Cloud Wave Technology that offers ultimate cushioning and responsive strides. The U4icX works with the wave plate for a softer underfoot feel and smooth transitions during your run. Down inside, it has a removable insole that adds to the underfoot support and gives you lots of comfort.

Its outer soles are made of highly flexible x10 Carbon rubber providing strong grip, good traction and long wearability. The shoes’ heels are also reinforced with a thick rubber, allowing it to endure use by heel strikers. With various color options, you can run in style with Mizuno’s Rider 22.

9. Skechers Men’s Go Run Razor 3 Sneaker

Marathoners and sprinters looking for shoes that effectively reduce shock and pressure would love the Skechers Men’s Go Run Razor 3 Sneakers. Designed as a distance racing shoe, it offers a fast performance, pressure free comfort and a racy feel. It has eye catching colors and style that makes you stand out on the track.

As the 2019 Runner’s World Gear of the Year Award winner, you can be confident of Razor 3’s excellence in quality.

Features

Skechers’ Razor 3 features a very lightweight, durable and translucent ripstop mesh upper that gives a stunning breathability. It also has synthetic overlays placed throughout its seamless design. With this, you will have less irritation but still get plenty of support during your runs.

The traditional lace up designs give it a secure fit and the padding on the collar and tongue provides added comfort. Inside, the shoes have a soft fabric lining that offers natural skin comfort and a fully cushioned removable footbed that helps absorb shock with your every step.

Equipped with an ultra responsive and super lightweight Hyper Burst cushioning system on the midsole, these shoes are firm but bouncy.

The squishy tiny gas filled bubbles inside it offers effective shock absorption, cushions your feet and reduces pressure on your foot- an advantage especially for older runners. It also has a molded heel counter that keeps your heel stable.

Razor 3’s outsole provides aggressive traction on both dry and wet surfaces. The narrow strips of rubber on its soles helps the shoes keep a strong grip keeping your balance while you run.

Given its overall features, the Razor 3 makes awesome running shoes for older runners. An important thing to note when finding the right size for you, though, is the unisex sizes.

10. PUMA Women’s Pulse XT Core Running Shoe

Puma Women’s Pulse XT Core Running Shoes are the best option for people who do a lot of intensive indoor and outdoor training. This dynamic and flexible footwear allows your feet to move naturally and freely. Being lightweight, it lets you run without restrictions. You can also use it for other sports activities and as your casual everyday footwear.

Features

Puma Pulse XT Core Running Shoes are very durable. It features a knit mesh upper with synthetic overlays that keep your feet protected. This material is highly breathable and keeps your feet fresh and dry even during hot weather conditions. It also has a lace up closure for a secure and adjustable fit.

The collars and tongue have good padding while the insides offer a soft liner that gives next to skin feel. It also has a well cushioned footbed that adds comfort, resilience and bounce as you run.

At the back, there is a nifty pull loop for an easy on and off wear. These shoes also feature a lightweight injection molded EVA midsole that provides optimal cushioning and a smooth ride.

All these features sit atop a durable rubber outsole with a full length foot flex groove for a dynamic and multi-directional movement. The soles also offer great grip on any surface ensuring that you have a worry free run.

With its ergonomic design, sleek look and affordable price, Pulse XT Core provides you with a splendid running experience and allows you to get more from your workouts.

What Things To Consider When Buying Best Running Shoes for Older Runners?

Buying the right shoes can optimize the health benefits you get from running and spare you from foot injuries. To be able to purchase the best shoes for you and get a good value from your money, you need to know what to look for when buying best running shoes for older runners. Here are some things to consider:

Durability

When buying running shoes, check the kind of materials the shoes are made from. Good quality materials usually last longer and ensure proper support and protection to your feet.  Durable shoes are not always expensive. There are many reasonably priced durable and quality shoes in the market that give you a good value for your money.

Protection and Support

This is the most important factor to consider in choosing running shoes. Older runners may have bone and muscle issues and need a lot of cushioning in their shoes to prevent running related injuries like bruises, blisters, and other foot, ankle and knee trauma.

Your type of foot, arch issues and other foot concerns also play a role when choosing the right shoes. Make sure the drop provides ample arch support, especially if you have high arch or flat feet.

Understand also the shock absorbency of the soles to make sure you are getting the right support for your feet. Choose shoes that are flexible, preferably one that supports and mimics a natural gait cycle.

Comfort

Shoes that snugly fit your feet allow you to run comfortably. Make sure that the shoes have enough space for your toes. It is unhealthy and painful to run with your toes scrunched up because of lack of space. If you have wide feet, consider buying a model with a spacious toe box.

Shoes for older runners should also provide good ventilation for the feet. A good airflow will let your feet stay dry and cool even when you are running long distances.  It will also prevent your feet from sweating and foot odor.

Grip and Traction

During a road run, you may encounter unexpected surfaces. A usual route may suddenly be wet because of rain. Shoes with strong grip on various surfaces ensures that you don’t accidentally fall, regardless of the surface you are running on.

Your shoes also need to hold your body steadily as you run. Shoes with stunning traction stabilize your body and reduce muscle spasm. This is very useful for older runners who may not exhibit the same muscle strength as when they were younger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should running shoes be used only for running?

Although running shoes can be used for different purposes, you should ideally have separate walking shoes for your other daily activities. High quality running shoes are generally more expensive than walking and exercise shoes. Using your running shoes exclusively for running will lengthen its life cycle and save you money.

What is the average mileage of running shoes?

The average mileage or life cycle of most running shoes is between 300 to 500 miles. After that, you will most likely notice signs of natural wear and tear, and you may need to replace them for optimal protection.

When should I replace my running shoes?

You need to replace your running shoes when they show unfixable tears or when you start to feel that they don’t provide the ample protection and support for your feet.

Do shoes affect running?

Shoes do affect running. Running shoes are designed to make you feel faster and protect your feet from stress and injuries related to running. It is usually equipped with protective and support features that other shoes don’t have. A flexible and lightweight running shoe helps you attain a better gait, compared to the average sneakers.

How often should I replace my running shoes?

Expert recommendations state that running shoes should be replaced every 500 miles. If you run a distance of 20 miles per week, that would mean you’ll have to replace your running shoes every four to six months.

What’s the difference between running shoes and sneakers?

Sneakers is a general term for athletic shoes. Depending on the design, these can be used for general exercise, casual walks or as a fashion statement. Running shoes are designed and used for running and races. Most running shoes are equipped for this specific function.

Conclusion

Older runners’ physiology is different from those of the younger ones, thus they need to wear running shoes that offer the right cushioning, protection and support. Choosing the right shoes for your specific type of foot is necessary, since the wrong running footwear may cause you more harm than good.

The running shoes recommended above were carefully reviewed and selected based on its durability, protective ability, comfort, and traction to ensure that it fits the needs of every older runner.

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