The 5 Best Running Shoes for Women

If there was ever a year to fall in love with running, 2022 is it. The easiest way to fall in love with running? Run, a lot. The easiest way to get yourself out the door and on the way to endorphin-fueled bliss? Putting on running gear that makes you feel great—and having a friend to run with. But first things first, you’re going to need a great pair of running shoes. Our list for the best running shoes for women in 2022 can be summed up in two words: icons only.

Editor Notes: There is nothing like a new pair of running shoes to start running (and actually enjoy it). I know making a switch is tough. I’ve switched to shoes that were worse than my last pair and regretted the $150 hit for the next 300 miles. Every now and again, I make a switch to a new style of shoe and my running life is changed forever.

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1. Norda 001 x Ciele Cooper’s Hawk

Best Running Shoe for Trail Running

An engineering feat of performance and sustainability, Norda’s 001 x Ciele Cooper’s Hawk is what trail running dreams are made of. Its upper is woven with bio-based Dyneema, its midsole cushioning is composed with Vibram SLE, and its soleplate features Litebase and Megagrip Rubber.

Aside from the technical aspects of this trail shoe, it’s seamless aesthetic and yellow speckled sole make it an instant icon. Take them out to play on your favorite mountain trail and don’t worry about going the distance or going for speed.

Editor Notes: I think these are the most stylish shoes to hit the market in a long time. What I love the most is that comfort and performance were not compromised by the cute style.

2. Asics Gel Kayano 28

Best for Training Runs

It’s only fitting that we include a classic ASICS running shoe in our 2022 icon lineup. ASICS is an acronym for the Latin expression “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” (“You should pray for a healthy mind in a healthy body”), a quote from the Roman satirist Juvenal and a mantra we live by here at Scrunchy.

The ASICS Gel Kayano 28 helps you achieve a healthy body and healthy mind by making training runs in the city a breeze. It’s use of the DuoMax® system enhances stability and support while its use of a rearfoot and forefoot GEL® Technology Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases. Plus, it’s iconic webbing and this understated colorway pops in the city streets.

Editor Notes: Having grown up running in ASICS, this brand will always have a special place in my heart. Really you can’t go wrong with a pair of ASICS in my opinion. The Gel Kayano 28 is a solid all around shoe.

3. On Running Cloudswift

Best Running Shoe for Urban Running

Made especially for running through the city streets, the Cloudswift is from On Running is your one stop shop for a dependable road shoe. The Cloudswift features CloudTec® in Helion™ superfoam which offers increased forefoot cushioning—a must for forefoot strikers—as well as enlarged “clouds” in the rear to dampen heel strikes.

It’s emphasized rocker outsole and re-engineered Speedboard™ optimize the natural rolling motion for a stride that feels smooth and effortless. Running on wet streets? Not to worry, rubber grip pads offer increased traction on wet surfaces.

Aside from unparalleled performance, you can’t go wrong with any of their colorways. But if we had to choose one, it would be the ultra-chic magnet/lavender.

Editor Notes: I am a big On Running fan. I’ve tried most of their models by now and think that the Cloudswift is one of On Running’s best running shoes for women. Because of the simple style, I’ve worn these as daily sneakers just as much as runners.

4. Brooks Hyperion Tempo

Best for tempo runs and mid-foot strikers

Midfoot strikers rejoice, the Brooks Hyperion Tempo is the neutral shoe you’ve been looking for. With just enough cushion for longer runs yet responsive and light enough for your tempo workout, the Hyperion is a great all-around shoe.

Take note, while this shoe is comfortable enough for long distance runs, this is not a soft and cushy shoe. Hyperion’s nitrogen-infused foam outsole contains many small and compact bubbles—making the foam dense and firm. Featuring contact areas that are covered with a grippy rubber making this a great shoulder season shoe.

Editor Notes: I’ve heard so many good things about Brooks and their Hyperion Tempo shoe that I had to include them. Sadly, I have not yet tried this shoe myself. I hope to to update this article soon with a personal review.

5. On Running CloudBoom Echo

Best for road racing

When all you want to do is run fast, the CloudBoom Echo has your back. This shoe is designed by high performance runners for high performance running. Featuring an extreme rocker and lightweight construction, the CloudBoom will help put the pep in your step.

Combined with the lightest possible upper and enhanced forefoot cushioning, these shoes are ready to go the distance—and get there in style.

Editor Notes: Hands down one of the best race shoes I have tried. If you are looking for a reliable pair of Raceday shoes, I recommend trying the CloudBoom Echo. On’s newest model the Echo 3 is one of thee best running shoes for women who are racing. Also check out the On Monster review, the Monster is their newest style that has been a massive success.