Runner's World Editor's Choice Award Winner - Saucony Omni 12
This shoe scored high for comfort and ride. It's a light shoe with good support and cushioning, and a super soft forefoot. The stability makes it a bit stiff but it provides the necessary support. If you need stability and still want a fast shoe, check out the Saucony Omni 12.
Shop Saucony Omni 12 for men & Saucony Omni 12 for women
Runner's World Editor's Choice Award Winner - Brooks Ghost 6
The Brooks Ghost 6 is a full ounce lighter than last year's model. This model also benefits from an improvement in "how fluidly the shoe rolls from the heel-strike to the toe-off." (Brooks took the plastic shank out of the arch and filled it in with foam and rubber.) The Ghost 6 is a great balance of weight, cushioning and durability.
Browse our selection of Brooks shoes
Runner's World Best Debut Award Winner - Mizuno Wave Sayonara
The Sayonara uses Mizuno's new midsole compound the "U4ic," a lighter foam that provides similar cushioning as previous Mizuno versions. The Sayonara weighs 1.2 ounces less than last year's award-winning Editor's Choice Mizuno Wave Precision. It's lightweight and delivers a firmer ride than the Precision; plus, the Sayonara has enough support for longer runs.
Shop the Mizuno Wave Precision for women & the Mizuno Wave Precision for men
Runner's World Best Update Award Winner - New Balance 1260 v3
An ounce lighter than the v2, yet with even more cushioning. The 1260 v3 also has more forefoot flexibility. This is a supportive, stable shoe—perfect for big runners—yet it doesn't feel clunky.
Shop the New Balance 1260 v3 for women & the New Balance 1260 v3 for men