No. 10 - Asics Gel Foundation 8
Best for: Severe overpronators
Cushioning setup: Forefoot and heel Asics Gel, SpEVA midsole compound, DuoMax Support System
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 5
Not every well-cushioned shoe is going to have an obvious, exaggerated midsole. In the case of the Asics Gel Foundation 8, it’s more about the tech going on within the midsole than the actual visible cushioning. Inside, there’s a combination of forefoot and heel Gel, which helps to soften impact as you pound the pavement. They’re encapsulated inside an SpEVA midsole for added energy return, while a DuoMax Support System is implemented in the midfoot to help correct the worst cases of pronation.
No. 9 - Pearl Izumi EM Road H3
Best for: Moderate to severe overpronators
Cushioning setup: Energy Foam in forefoot and heel, Shock Absorption Foam, E:Motion Foam
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 5
Peal Izumi’s EM Road H3 has all the cushioning and stability needed to keep overpronators in check while remaining relatively lightweight at 10.4 ounces. The key here is keeping the upper simple, which is achieved through the use of a seamless construction that is breathable, supportive, and flexible. If you’re looking to try something new, go for the EM Road H3.
No. 8 - Brooks Transcend
Best for: Moderate to severe overpronators
Cushioning setup: Super DNA, Caterpilar Crash Pad
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 5
Touted by Brooks as “like running on clouds”, the Transcend’s cushioning system is more equipped than it appears at first glance. They’ve combined BioMoGo and DNA cushioning systems to create Super DNA, allowing it to better adjust to each runner’s specific needs. In other words, the more you use the Transcend, the better it gets, becoming more customized to your individual stride.
No. 7 - Brooks Addiction 11
Best for: Sever overpronators
Cushioning setup: Full-length DNA, Caterpillar Crash Pad, MC Pod Configuration
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 6
If the Brooks Transcend isn’t quite enough to handle your pronation, look to the Addiction 11 model. This long-standing franchise has been updated with the brand’s newest technologies to make it even more cushioned, durable, and breathable. The midsole is composed of full-length DNA, allowing it to adjust its firmness to suit your individual needs. On the medial side, an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar ensures your foot stays where it needs to be through the gait.
No. 6 - Nike Air Max 2014
Best for: Neutral to supinators
Cushioning setup: Full-length Max Air
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 7
As one of the OGs in the running game, the Nike Air Max has come a long way, and each year it gets better with the addition of the Swoosh’s latest tech innovations. The 2014 update is no different, and its 360 degree, full length visible Max Air cushioning is enough to support the largest athletes on the most intense runs. If you’re the type of runner that needs more protection than energy return, check out the Air Max 2014.
No. 5 - New Balance 1260v4
Best for: Moderate to severe overpronators
Cushioning setup: Abzorb foam with Acteva Lite and N2 cushioning
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 7
Another great option for those who pronate is the New Balance 1260v4. This is an update to one of the brand’s most popular overpronation models, and the midsole setup is not to be taken lightly. It features both Acteva Lite and Abzorb foams for lightweight protection, but the real star is the N2 cushioning which offers a close to the ground, responsive feel, something that is hard to find in overpronation shoes. Take advantage of this unparalleled feel with the New Balance 1260v4.
No. 4 - Altra Olympus
Best for: Neutral to supinators
Cushioning setup: A-Bound, Dual Layer EVA, Natural Ride System
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 8
If you need a heavily cushioned shoe that can handle both the trails and the road, consider the Altra Olympus. Altra is one of the leaders in maximal cushioning, and models like the Olympus are exactly why they’ve been so successful. A dual layer EVA setup is paired with an A-Bound midsole, resulting in a total of three individual layers coming together for serious padding and protection. Further down, the sticky outsole allows these to go from the road to the trail and back with no problem.
No. 3 - Hoka Bondi 3
Best for: Neutral to supinators
Cushioning setup: Oversized CMEVA midsole, Meta-Rocker
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 8
If you’re not yet familiar with Hoka, now’s the time to get acquainted. The Bondi 3 is one of the brand’s best reviewed models, and it’s packed with serious cushioning to protect neutral runners and underpronators. The cushioning is powered by a large, full length CMEVA compound midsole and uses a special shape to correct supination. With 4.5mm heel to toe ratio, the Bondi 3 is heavily cushioned from front to back.
No. 2 - Altra The Paradigm
Best for: Neutral to supinators
Cushioning setup: Dual Layer EVA-Bound Blend with A-Bound Top Layer
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 8
Two layers of midsole foam are good, but three? That’s next level. The Altra Paradigm takes it there with two layers of soft yet durable EVA capped off with A-Bound, which is an eco-friendly compound designed to deliver comfort underfoot. Best of all, almost anyone can enjoy this stacked cushioning, as the Altra The Paradigm is suitable for neutral runners and supinators alike.
No. 1 - Hoka Stinson Lite
Best for: Neutral to supinators
Cushioning setup: HIP CMEVA midsole
On a scale of cloud (10) to pavement (1), this shoe is a: 9
Don’t let the Hoka Stinton Lite’s name fool you; other than the fact that the model weighs just 10.7 ounces, there’s nothing “light” about the cushioning setup here. Instead of combining different foam compounds, the Stinson Lite relies on an oversized slab of HIP CMEVA to handle the cushioning. This is beneficial for two reasons: it allows for more shock absorption and is also more durable than individual layers. What this means for you, the runner, is that the cushioning will last longer and provide better results, giving you the most for your money.
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