Welcome to the Runner's World Autumn Shoe Guide 2009. You'll find reviews of 28 of the best new running shoes on the market here, as well as an insight into the technologies they contain and plenty of expert advice.
There are shoes for all shapes, running styles and wallets. Manufacturers have focused recently on providing extra cushioning while striving to keep weight to a minimum and maintain responsiveness.
As usual, we've cranked the RW Shoe Lab into action and have duly pounded, prodded and punished hundreds of shoes using state-of-the-art equipment to see how they perform under stress. Runner's World is the only publication in the world that tests shoes like this.
We've also sent the shoes out to our extensive panel of wear-testers (including members of West 4 Harriers, Serpentine Running Club and Runner's World staff).
If you're new to shoe buying, use this guide as a starting point only - you should always visit a specialist running retailer to get the right fit for you. Our interactive Shoe Finder will also help give you a head start by matching up your needs and preferences with some suggestions of shoes to put on your shortlist.
Of course, if you've recently invested in a pair of shoes, don't forget to tell us (and your fellow site members) what you think - simply visit our Gear section and add your review.
Non-subscribers can view the full reviews for the Editor's Choice (New Balance 758), Best Debut (Nike LunarGlide+) and Best Update (Saucony Grid Phoenix 4). To access full reviews for all the shoes listed (as well as hundreds of archived featured training and health articles), subscribe online now. Choose between receiving your first three issues for just £3 or a free running watch.
adidas
Asics
Avia
Brooks
Mizuno
New Balance
Newton
Nike
Pearl Izumi
Puma
Saucony
* These shoes arrived at RW Towers too late for us to lab test. Each model has nevertheless been subjected to the same rigorous wear-testing procedures as the other shoes i.e. being given a thorough pounding by both male and female runners and then judged according to criteria covering all aspects of the shoe and its performance.
