Practiced by nearly 60 million people in the US alone, running is one of the most accessible and popular forms of exercise on the planet. You don’t need special gym equipment, and you don’t need any expert training either; in fact, all you really need is the space to run and a good pair of vegan running shoes.
That last part is important, as wearing the wrong pair of shoes can result in injury.
According to personal trainer and fitness coach David Mason, who founded the blog Barbells Abroad, running shoes must be breathable, for one.
“You need a shoe that can prevent overheating and allow air to flow, without the shoe being too thin or flimsy,” he told VegNews. “This is particularly important for beginner runners, as you do not want to overheat or suffer injuries from poor-quality shoes.”
Jenny Hill | Unsplash
Running shoes must also be flexible (to avoid a potential rolled ankle) and have the right cushioning. “This is often the part that most people already know, but I must stress how important proper cushioning is for runners of all skill levels,” Mason says.
“Proper cushioning is crucial along with proper form for injury reduction, so ensure that the shoe you buy has cushioning that reflects the amount of running you’ll be doing on a weekly basis.”
10 vegan running shoes to try now
To help you find the right running shoe for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best options below.
1 APL TechLoom Wave
With this TechLoom Wave design, Athletic Propulsion Labs has prioritized optimal performance without compromising comfort. The shoes also feature “strategically placed ventilation zones” to keep them breathable, and they come in a range of different colors, so you don’t have to sacrifice your personal style either.
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APL
Vivobarefoot
2 Vivobarefoot Primus Trail All Weather III FG
This vegan design from Vivobarefoot is all about flexibility, allowing you to move easily and comfortably as you run along your favorite nature trails, whatever the weather. So if you prefer running out in the wilderness to the roadside, then this might be the shoe for you.
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Vivobarefoot
3 Brooks Launch 11
The sole of this shoe is unique: it features nitrogen-infused DNA Flash foam, which softly cushions your feet during runs without compromising speed or agility. The sneakers are also lightweight, breathable, sturdy, and they look good, too.
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Amazon
4 Hoka Arahi 7
Hoka’s Arahi shoes are renowned for their stability, thanks to the brand’s patented Frame technology. But they don’t feel bulky; rather, they’re lightweight and supportive. They do run fairly firm, which some people love, while others may prefer a softer feel, so keep that in mind before placing your order.
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Amazon
5 Nortiv 8 Walking Shoes
They might be called walking shoes, but these sneakers from Nortiv 8 are just as supportive for runners. With a responsive EVA midsole for soft cushioning, a breathable jacquard upper, and a rubber sole designed for stability, this is a versatile, supportive shoe that will carry you through long walks, morning runs, and everyday errands alike.
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Amazon
6 ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 9
ASICS’ answer to next-level cushioning? Gel—and it works. These shoes excel at impact absorption, offering a soft, supportive feel with plenty of breathability. They’re comfortable enough for all-day wear, but truly shine out on the running path.
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Amazon
7 Skechers Max Cushion
Skechers is having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. The Max Cushioning line lives up to its name, delivering cloud-like comfort with plenty of support. They also offer solid arch support, good ventilation, and the convenience of being machine washable.
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Amazon
8 Saucony Excursion Tr16 Trail Running Sneakers
Another great option for trail runners comes from Saucony. The Excursion TR16 features the brand’s signature VERSARUN cushioning, a responsive, durable EVA-based foam, alongside rubber lugs for reliable grip on tricky terrain. A breathable mesh upper keeps things cool, and it comes in a range of colors and designs.
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Amazon
9 New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4
These New Balance sneakers don’t just look good—they deliver on performance, too. Breathable, lightweight, and durable, they’re just as suited to workouts as they are to days out with friends. Choose from a range of styles, including metallic and even leopard print.
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Amazon
10 Joomra Trail Running Barefoot Shoes
Trail runners can’t go wrong with these barefoot shoes from Joomra. They’re designed to help you feel more connected to the ground, while still offering support, comfort, and a secure fit thanks to the thicker topline that wraps around the foot.
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Amazon
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
Here at VegNews, we live and breathe the plant-based lifestyle, and only recommend products we feel make our lives amazing. Occasionally, articles may include shopping links where we might earn a small commission, but in no way does this effect the editorial integrity of VegNews.
