The best lightweight running shoe alone is a type of footwear that could encourage the runners to go fast while still capable of piling on the huge mileage. In the most recent years, the shoe trends have been given way to the more active and freeform styles, naturally leading the sports in a completely new direction.
First Look: The 3 Best Rated Lightweight Running Shoes
Take on endless miles of running
A lot of manufacturers decide to add more ergonomic second-skin to the running shoes’ cushioned midsoles for more powerful heel-to-toe drops. And thanks to this bit of foam in the midsoles, the impact is amazingly softened when it comes to the long distance runs. So which one is the best so far?Related: Top Rated Cushioned Running Shoes
If you’re looking for the agilest and feather-like footwear suiting your needs of a runner, then look nowhere else than our 15 best lightweight running shoes reviewed in 2020 below:
- Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 6
- On CloudFlow Performance Running Shoes
- On Cloud Shoe
- Merrell All Out Crush
- Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder
- Nike Free Rn Motion Flyknit
- Nike Flyknit Racer
- Under Armour SpeedForm Fortis Vent Running Shoes
- Hoka One One Clifton 3
- Puma Carson Runner
- Skechers GOrun 5
- Altra One 2.5 Running Shoe
- Inov – 8 X – Talon 200
- Salomon Sonic Pro
- Vibram FiveFingers EL-X Cross Training Shoe
Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 6 Running Shoes
Most runners were quite impressed with the look of the Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 6 and felt satisfied with such a solid performance the shoe offers. The entire cushioning feature was claimed to feel enough while its quality as it comes to the materials was highly sound.
However, there are still some reviewers claim that the Adizero Boston Boost 6’s tongue just folded over so distractingly. They also felt unhappy with how slightly tight the shoe felt for the runs. Besides, they expect the whole footwear to be softer against the foot, but generally, it’s a great option for any runner who is desiring for a responsive and lightweight running shoe.
The upper is not too thick but only supportive enough to maintain your foot more comfortable whenever stepping on the footwear’s platform. Being linked to the lacing system straightforward, the stitched-on overlay can hug your foot perfectly and keep it in place during the high-impact running activity.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
The Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 6 is the our best lightweight running shoes. It offers all users the impressive look and a solid performance.Editor Rating
Best On Lightweight Running Shoes
On CloudFlow Performance Running Shoes
The On CloudFlow might surprise many shoe enthusiasts by gaining more fans thanks to its efficacy and ergonomic design. A lot of them welcomed the shoe’s lightweight nature and excellently responsive cushioning system as well as other great aesthetics. Of course, there was nearly no complaint about this neutral running shoe.
If what you want is a shoe with a nice tempo, the speed with some added cushion, then this is an outstanding option. It’s because of their lightweight nature; the shoe makes a perfect fit for any single-digit training run. Well, this running shoe also owns the feel of a woven cloth and efficiently wraps around the foot safely to allow the runners to move freely and naturally.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
The entire parts of the On CloudFlow look nice and own a solid running platform, and more wonderfully, it’s so light.Editor Rating
On Cloud Shoe
Pros
Cons
The On Cloud shoe enables all runners to fully experience the most explosive toe-offs and gentle landings thanks to its greatly impressive cushioning and other impact-protection features.
There are a lot of testers who appear so happy with the shoe due to its lightweight nature and adequate cushioning system.
Quite differing from other shoes of ON, this one has the sole pods that are made from the midsole rather than the rubber outsole.
On the run, noticeably, the shoes seem to deliver the same sensation of smooth cushioning when they try to compress, transform to a stable platform for push-off when bottoming out. The On Cloud also stays true to its size, from the midfoot, forefoot to heel section so that it can accommodate anyone having the medium-size foot and the ones with a wide forefootOur Verdict
The On Cloud shoe is ideally made for any runner who is searching for the minimal running footwear with amazing performance and comfort.Editor Rating
Best Merrell Lightweight Running Shoe
Merrell All Out Crush
The All Out Crush Light is another great lightweight trail running shoes that have such a highly durable traction. Beyond than that, if you want a shoe with the moderate level of cushioning, this shoe is only ideal for any light trail since it can’t deliver the right protection for any long distance run or technical terrain.
Aside from other Merrell’s off-road shoes, this version features a highly breathable upper made from the woven fabric and TPU materials, which makes such an excellent exterior. More than that, the shoe is more durable and so easy to clean or dry as compared to other shoes. The use of Uni Fly - an integrated EVA foot bed does not just protect the foot from other sharp objects but also offer high protection on any tough terrain or the off-road trails.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
With a breathable upper, the Merrell All Out Crush Light adds a very satisfying and comfortable touch to your trail running experience.Editor Rating
Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder
Merrell’s Tough Mudder when used alone for trail running is said to work best on various surfaces (soft, wet, or slippery ground). If you want to experience a highly supportive, well-cushioned and stable ride, this footwear can be your best option.
It has more than enough underfoot cushioning without having to take away any excellent ground feedback. This pair of shoes could tackle any short course (5 - 25 km) trails with great lugs that offer the versatile grip on a bunch of surfaces in the most slippery conditions.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
The Merrell All Out Crush Tough Mudder Offers a highly supportive ride for obstacle races, based on many commentsEditor Rating
Best Nike Lightweight Running Shoes
Nike Free Rn Motion Flyknit
This Free Rn Motion can take your basic running principle to another level in the form of a brand new midsole design. It’s so light, flexible and able to deliver a lot of comforts. Besides, the entire shoe is built to last long for tough speed training and other ultra-long runs.
It naturally feels much like a sock and super breathable for long sessions on the roads. However, the auxetic texture in the Motion Flyknit must be one of the most striking features, delivering the most natural running experience you’ve ever had.
Don’t think that they feel pretty much like all marshmallows. With its revolutionary design of the outsole and a completely innovative construction, your run can be taken to a much better level.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Indeed, the cushioning underfoot of the Nike Free Rn Motion Flyknit is just enough so there’s no need to brace yourself up for touching any surface.Editor Rating
Nike Flyknit Racer
Some reviewers claim that they have fun wearing this lightweight running shoe since for them, this Nike’s version can deliver high comfort, security, and style at the same time. Meanwhile, a few testers noted that they loved to use it daily and did not feel like changing at all.
However, we still heard more than one users complained that they can’t acclimate well to the running road. Even the shoe upper’s durability also causes some inconsistencies.But in general, Nike Flyknit Racer is still a popular footwear, and many have come to trust and choose it. Featuring a one-piece knitted upper, the shoe is favored for being very breathable. Besides, its stretchable nature allows a highly adaptive fit and added support during the long runs.
Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Well, for a majority of runners, the Nike Flyknit Racer is just perfect for being lightweight, breathable and durable in traction.Editor Rating
Best Under Armour Lightweight Running Shoes
Under Armour SpeedForm Fortis Vent Running Shoes
Have you ever had the well-cushioned running experience before? Then what the Under Armour SpeedForm Fortis is really about. It gives a great hand in supporting the runner’s foot and carries it in such a comfy and unlimited manner.
So are you ready to handle the roads? Things are now getting easier and easier, especially when the neutral runners own this long-lasting and nice-looking running companion. For this reason, you should get ready to buy one and kick out of more visual aspects of your running gear.
Besides, we should say thanks to the ArmourVent, known as a mesh material that is so light and comfortable on the skin. In other words, it won’t ever make your foot feel like being stiff but keep it cool and dry because it can let the air to seamlessly get right inside the shoe.
Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
The Fortis Vent owns a great coverage, efficient performance and a protection that is about last a long time. All of its features made it to our list of best lightweight running shoes.Editor Rating
Best Hoka Lightweight Running Shoes
Hoka One One Clifton 3
The Clifton 3 of Hoka One One seems to gain a lot of positive feedbacks from several runners who thought that it was such a comfy option for the streets. Besides, the cushioning system here was also popular since it was said to be thick yet still unbelievably comfortable. Well, who just don’t agree? All of these characteristics make neutral runners felt happier.
However, the best thing about the shoe is no matter how much cushioning you get, the shoe is still light and warm. Wear it around to let it go through the stride so well. Not only that, but this is also one of the shoes wherein if you feel ready to beat up.
Furthermore, once feeling tired from miles of running, you might want something a bit easier on both legs; so Hoka One One Clifton is properly the great one to consider!Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
In summary, the Hoka One One Clifton 3 is highly favored due to the great traction on every surface. It is one of the best lightweight running shoes on the market.Editor Rating
Read more: Best Hoka One One running shoes
Best Puma Lightweight Running Shoes
Puma Carson Runner
It’s none other than the style and performance that makes the Puma Carson Runner one of the worth-to-try running shoes this year. Owning the flawless mixture of cushioning, traction and durability, the footwear won’t let you down or anyone who is looking for a brand new training partner.This footwear is just the best for any narrow-footed athlete.
Puma Carson Runner arrives with a nice air mesh upper that deliver the maximum breathability, maintaining the entire foot well-ventilated throughout the run. If you intend to buy one, note that the size of the Puma Carson Runner could run small. Therefore, you need to buy a size bigger than the size of a usual running shoe. More than that, what makes people love to wear this model around is the ability to attenuate shock and energy production for a stronger toe-off.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Apart from the great comfort, the upper material of the Puma Carson Runner offers every runner such a sleek style.Editor Rating
Best Skechers Lightweight Running Shoe
Skechers GOrun 5
Being welcomed by so many people who have tried it, Skechers GOrun 5 is famous for its comfortable and efficient construction, amazingly colorful design and an impressive midsole foam unit. Some casual shoe fans would love to try this out due to its softer and more responsive nature.
However, we also see some complaining about the shoe being slightly narrow and a little big as it comes to the sizing scheme. Besides, a few reviewers also reported that its the footwear traction felt inconsistent at times. But in the users’ general opinion, the GOrun 5 is a cool shoe that can run fast without causing our feet to get swollen.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Frankly, you would love to use the Skechers GOrun 5 for your casual occasions provided that the shoe remained efficient throughout different weather conditions.Editor Rating
Best Altra Lightweight Running Shoe
Altra One 2.5 Running Shoe
In fact, there are not many people who were truly impressed by the general enhancement of the Altra One 2.5, but it could deliver an extremely responsive ride and a more comfortable upper area than what you expected. So it’s one of the best lightweight running shoes for both tempo racing and running you can trust and bring home.
Quite like the 2.0 version, this model owns more cushioning than its older one, but its foam density is just firmer, offering a more responsive ride that every tester could finally hit the sweet spot. With the re-designed upper area, the shoe ensures to offer the runners a completely comfortable ride as well as keep our foot cool and dry naturally.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
When it comes to the color options, most of the Altra One 2.5 look so eye-catching and pleasing to the eyes.Editor Rating
Best Inov - 8 Lightweight Running Shoe
Inov - 8 X - Talon 200
Not just a lightweight but also flexible running shoe for racing and obstacle course running, the Inov-8X Talon 200 is able to provide an impressive grip and protection on every surface. People call it the new breed of running shoes or the unique neutral footwear made to benefit any runner who likes to increase their performance in a harder races and tracks.
The shoe remains very excellent as often with 8mm in depth teeth that can chew through mud and drive you to move forward. It’s especially handy for wet muddy hills, making it most premier race shoe of everyone’s choice.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
By trying the Inov - 8 X - Talon 200, you can be ensured that you are having one of the most lightweight running shoes in 2020.Editor Rating
Best Salomon Lightweight running shoes
Salomon Sonic Pro
The Salomon Sonic Pro is a reliable road running shoe designed exclusively for narrow-footed athletes. It’s light enough to suit the uptempo training, and greater than that, the shoe gets equipped with the greatest technologies for short and long-distance runs. It’s just light and responsive enough for us to wear like how we do with a race day shoe.
More interestingly, its EnergyCell+ compound has the ability to offer the ultra-light foam that is mainly used to attenuate the shock and brings us the long-lasting rebound. The midsole also features the three-dimensional ProFeel film for increasing the midfoot protection without influencing your ground feel.Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
All trail runner who are already used to the Salomon’s fit and performance might like to have this model as their daily road trainer.Editor Rating
Best Vibram Lightweight Shoe
Vibram FiveFingers EL-X Cross Training Shoe
FiverFingers EL-X is a great entry level cross-trainer suiting best for running and any workout. Amongst the toe shoes of Vibram, this model can be seen as the lightest and the shoe having the leanest sole in its line-up. Since it’s mainly designed for barefoot runners, the footwear only takes you a bit getting used to.
Sure enough, it comes in the right fit and gets more “likes” for being one of the most versatile running shoes in the market nowadays. Wear it around to let you shine in the gym, indoor/outdoor workouts or your high-mileage running. Trust us since they could make a perfect pair of lightweight running shoes that emulate your barefoot experience for both outdoor use and discovery.
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