Running Shoe Buying Guide: How to Choose Running Shoes
A great run starts with the right pair of shoes. Whether you've been running for years or consider yourself a beginner, we'll show you what to look for in a sneaker to help you find the perfect pair, including our top picks from Nike, Brooks, New Balance, and Skechers.
How to Find the Best Running Shoes for You
The best running shoes provide comfort and stability that feels tailored to you. In other words: it’s
all about the right fit. Wherever, or however, you run, your athletic shoes and sneakers should
enhance your performance with the right fit and the best features (such as cushioning, stability, and
lightweight designs). Here are some questions to ask yourself when you’re shopping for running
shoes:
What is Your Pronation?
Pronation is the way your foot rolls inward naturally when it hits the ground. Most people land on their heel when running, while some land more on the midfoot or forefoot. Once you know your pronation type, you can match it to a shoe category built for the support you need.
Types of Pronation:
Neutral/Basic Pronation The middle or slightly outward part of your heel strikes the ground first, and your foot rolls slightly inward (typically those with medium arches). The best shoe type: a neutral cushioning shoe that offers light structure for neutral runners.
Mild Overpronation The outside of your heel strikes the ground first, and your foot rolls inward, slightly absorbing the shock (typically those with low-to-medium arches). The best shoe type: a stability shoe, which helps control side-to-side motion.
Severe Overpronation Your heel strikes the ground first and rolls inward excessively (typically those with low arches or flat feet). The ankle can't stabilize the body properly on its own. The best shoe type: a motion-control shoe, which provides structured support.
Under Pronation (Supination) Your foot strikes with the outside of the heel first and stays on the outside throughout the strike. You'll want more flexibility here, which is why a neutral cushioning shoe is the best option.
What is Your Gait?
Your unique way of moving your body forward is called your gait, and understanding it can help you avoid future injuries or even determine the cause of an old one. Once you learn more about your running style and foot strike, you’ll be better able to identify what type of running shoe you need.
How to Analyze Your Gait:
During a gait analysis, a physical therapist or exercise physiologist will assess aspects of your running gait through direct observation or video. They’ll review everything from your running history to your body mechanics and foot placement. You can then use this personalized information to improve your running technique and lower your risk of injury.
Where Do You Run?
Running isn't just about how you do it, but where you do it. Your shoes and body respond differently depending on your running surface.
Running Shoes for Trail Runners
If you are running outdoors on a trail, you’ll want trail- running shoes designed for off- road routes. These often have lugs on the bottom of the
shoe to provide better traction on dirt and rocks.
Running Shoes for Road Runners
If you’re a more traditional, everyday runner, you’ll want a light, flexible running shoe with a smoother sole. This type of shoe is best for people who run on pavement, tracks, or treadmills, as it cushions your feet during repetitive strides.
Types of Running Shoes
Once you've determined your pronation and gait, you can choose the right pair of women's running shoes or men's running shoes based on the level of support and control you need.
Motion-Control Running Shoes Best for runners with overpronation and lower arches. The outsole has a wide, straight shape, and the shoe provides maximum support with a stiffer heel.
Stability Running Shoes Best for runners with a normal arch and slight pronation. These have a semi-curved outsole shape and often include guide rails to control side-to-side motion.
Neutral-Cushioning Running Shoes Best for runners with a high arch or those who supinate. These have the most curved outsole shape and are designed to absorb impact your foot doesn't absorb naturally.
How Long Should Running Shoes Last?
A solid pair of running shoes should last about 400–500 miles, or roughly 3–4 months for regular runners. At that point, cushioning stops absorbing shock as effectively, which can impact your joints. Signs it's time to replace your shoes: compressed or worn soles, heel damage, or new blisters.
Tips for Getting the Perfect Shoe Fit
- Measure your feet first. Use a shoe size chart guide to confirm your size before shopping.
- Try shoes on when you're most likely to run. Feet swell and shrink throughout the day — trying shoes on in the evening is your best bet, since feet tend to swell to their largest by then.
- Check the fit in key spots: the toebox, ankle collar, and saddle/insole.
Best Nike Running Shoes at DSW
Nike's running lineup at DSW is built around accessible, everyday trainers rather than premium racing shoes — which makes it a smart starting point for runners who want proven Nike cushioning and traction without a big price tag. Below are DSW's three core Nike running models, mapped to the pronation type each is best suited for. Before you buy, check the Nike sizing guide — Nike's fit tends to run slightly narrow, and DSW's current Nike assortment does not include wide-width options.
| Model | Best For (Pronation) | DSW Link |
|---|---|---|
| Nike Run Defy | Neutral pronation — versatile daily trainer | Men's | Women's |
| Nike Run Swift 3 | Neutral pronation — lightweight, faster-paced runs | Men's | Women's |
| Nike Revolution 8 | Neutral pronation — max-cushioned, entry-level | Men's | Women's |
Nike Run Defy
Best for: neutral pronation, everyday training. The Run Defy pairs a responsive foam midsole with a breathable upper and a durable traction outsole, making it a reliable pick for runs of all lengths and paces. At a starting price of $64.96, it's one of the most affordable full-cushioning Nike trainers DSW carries, and it consistently earns strong reviews (4.5–4.7 stars across men's and women's colorways) for true-to-size fit.
Nike Run Swift 3
Best for: neutral pronation, runners who want a lighter, quicker-feeling shoe. The Run Swift 3 trades some of the Run Defy's plushness for a lower-profile, more streamlined ride, which suits neutral runners logging faster tempo runs or shorter daily miles. It's DSW's top-rated Nike running shoe by customer feedback, with some colorways earning 4.6–4.8 stars.
Nike Revolution 8
Best for: neutral pronation, beginners or runners prioritizing cushioning over speed. As Nike's foundational running silhouette, the Revolution 8 emphasizes soft, forgiving cushioning underfoot over performance features — a solid entry point for new runners or anyone building up mileage. It's priced at an average $74.96 with styles for men and women.
For Nike's full performance lineup, including trail and racing styles not carried at DSW, browse the Nike brand assortment.
Nike Running Shoes at DSW: Quick Answers
What's the best Nike running shoe at DSW for beginners? The Nike Revolution 8 (average price of $74.96) is the best starting point — it's Nike's most cushioned, most forgiving trainer for neutral pronation and low weekly mileage.
What's the best Nike running shoe at DSW for overpronators? DSW's current Nike running assortment (Run Defy, Run Swift 3, Revolution 8 to name a few) is built for neutral pronation. Runners who overpronate and need guide rails or motion-control support should look to DSW's Brooks or New Balance stability shoes instead.
Is Nike Run Defy or Revolution 8 better for daily training? Both work as daily trainers. The Run Defy has a slightly more responsive foam midsole, while the Revolution 8 leans softer and more cushioned, which is better for runners prioritizing comfort over pace.
Does DSW carry wide-width Nike running shoes? Yes. DSW's Nike running assortment is limited currently to medium, wide, and extra wide widths in the Revolution 8 only and the Run Swift 3 only.
Best Brooks Running Shoes at DSW
Brooks is DSW's go-to brand for runners who need dedicated stability or premium cushioning beyond Nike's entry-level lineup.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 — Best for: mild overpronation, runners who want structured guide-rail support. A long-trusted stability shoe, the Adrenaline 24 is currently a best seller at DSW, and a solid value for runners who need side-to-side motion control on daily runs. Shop Adrenaline GTS 24 at DSW.
Brooks Ghost 17 — Best for: neutral pronation, everyday road running. The Ghost line is Brooks's best-selling neutral sneaker, balancing soft cushioning with a smooth, versatile ride. This style ranges in price but is typically available at $109.96 and holds a 4.7+ star rating across nearly 1,500 reviews. Shop the Ghost 17 at DSW.
Brooks Glycerin 22 — Best for: neutral pronation, runners who want maximum plush cushioning for long runs. The Glycerin 22 offers a softer, more premium ride than the Ghost, making it a strong choice for high-mileage training or recovery days. It's price ranges but can typically be found at $124.96 at DSW. Shop the Glycerin 22
Best New Balance Running Shoes at DSW
New Balance's Fresh Foam line is DSW's budget-friendly option for neutral-pronation runners who want reliable, all-day cushioning.
New Balance Fresh Foam Roav
Best for: neutral pronation, everyday training and walking-to-running transitions. The Fresh Foam Roav offers a soft, cushioned ride all in one lightweight shoe. To top it off, it is also one of DSW's best-reviewed running shoes overall, with nearly 1,900 reviews. Shop all Fresh Foam Roav running shoes at DSW.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi
Best for: neutral pronation, budget-conscious runners or beginners. A lighter, more affordable option in the Fresh Foam family, the Arishi is currently available in styles for the whole family, making it a great choice to snag in multiple colors for an affordable price.
Best Skechers Running Shoes at DSW
Skechers rounds out DSW's running assortment with lightweight, budget-friendly options built for casual and fast-paced road running alike.
Skechers Go Run Consistent 2.0 Fast Pace — Best for: neutral pronation, runners who want a lightweight shoe for tempo runs or everyday training. This shoe is designed with a responsive foam midsole aimed at quicker paces, making it a solid budget alternative to premium neutral trainers. Shop Women's Go Run Consistent 2.0 Fast Pace
For more options, browse all Skechers running shoes at DSW.