We know that navigating the incredible amount of running shoes can be a challenge. Brands have different ways of describing a shoe that can make it difficult to understand which shoe is right for you. We decided to create the RRC Shoe Map to provide our reviews so you can see where a shoe lines up in cushioning and support. On the y-axis is cushion, ranging from light to max and on the x-axis is ride, either neutral or support. We also include ounce weight, drop, price, and a quick description of the shoe.
HOKA’s highest cushion shoe just got a makeover! The Bondi 8 boasts the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance and this new update amplifies performance features. The cushion and comfort you know and love reworked with softer, lighter foams. An extended heel and added rear crash pad provides a balanced ride and makes it a much more runnable shoe.
- Weight: M 10.8oz W 8.9oz
- Drop: 4mm
- Price: $160
- Ride: Neutral
- Cushion: Max
This shoe is the tried and true Nike trainer- a reliable workhorse that will serve as your daily shoe. The Pegasus 39 weighs in an ounce less than the previous model (38), adding one more Zoom Air Unit in the back. Expect a stable right with a lot more cushion and a little extra pop.
- Weight: M 9.5oz W 8.0oz
- Drop: 10mm
- Price: $130
- Ride: Neutral
- Cushion: Mid
The Hoka Kawana is a brand new shoe from HOKA that covers the bases for anyone who’s ready to rock and roll in Barry’s Bootcamp or Orange Theory, or simply wants a runnable shoe that isn’t overly stacked. An accessible trainer that delivers a soft and smooth ride.
- Weight: W 10.0oz
- Drop: 5mm
- Price: $140
- Ride: Moderate
- Cushion: Max
The Hoka Mach 5 addition of the Pro Fly+ foam adds a pillowy soft feel with a nice energetic bounce featuring the same rubberized EVA outsole as the popular Mach 4. Built for performance and speed, the Mach 5 delivers a snappy ride that is overall responsive and light.
An great everyday trainer for your speedy days or maybe even your next race shoe?
- Weight: M 8.2oz W 6.8oz
- Drop: 5mm
- Price: $140
- Ride: Neutral
- Cushion: Mid
Brooks Glycerin 20 & Glycerin GTS 20
The Brooks Running classic infused with supremely soft nitrogen-infused foam to make it lightweight, responsive and totally comfortable. The max cushion Glycerin is fabulous for someone looking to move forward in a plush ride.
- Weight: M 10.0oz W 9.1oz
- Drop: 10mm
- Price: $160
- Ride: Neutral (GTS = Support)
- Cushion: Max
The Brooks Running Glycerin GTS (Go-To Support) offers the same fit, cushion level, and experience as their Glycerin adding thier support through signature GuideRails that provide a smooth, max-cushion, stable ride.
Saucony replaces their max-cushion, stable Hurricane, with the highly anticipated Tempus uses a superfoam bounce combined with an adaptive guidance system to deliver a lightweight and bouncy feel. PWRRUN Frame supports your foot upon landing and its curved shape propels you to a snappy takeoff.
- Weight: M 8.9oz W 7.9oz
- Drop: 8mm
- Price: $160
- Ride: Support
- Cushion: Max
The On-Running CloudRunner is a moderate cushion guidance shoe. The light stability is built into this new shoe guides your foot toward a neutral line by hugging the heel. Run more, go further, and keep your feet in the comfort zone. Made of 30-35% recycled content!
- Weight: M 10.58oz W 8.82oz
- Drop: 9mm
- Price: $139.99
- Ride: Support
- Cushion: Moderate
Welcome Topo to our shoe wall! The Phantom 2 is perfect for your long runs, providing max cushion, and a roomy toe box. A plastic TPU heel counter offers more support but is not overbearing. We still consider it a neutral shoe that provides a rear foot secure ride while providing ample room up front.
- Weight: M 10.3oz W 8.5oz
- Drop: 5mm
- Price: $140
- Ride: Neutral
- Cushion: Max
The Specter is Topo’s highest cushion, responsive shoe. The Specter sports a Pebax Powered core wrapped in EVA frame to deliver soft cushioning and high energy return for a stable and responsive ride. Similar to the Phantom 2, it includes a wide toe box and is nice and lightweight. Your next performance trainer!
- Weight: M8.1oz W 6.9oz
- Drop: 5mm
- Price: $160
- Ride: Neutral
- Cushion: Max
Come on in and take them for a spin!