Find Your Perfect Running Shoe
Answer a few questions to get personalized shoe recommendations
What type of running shoes are you looking for?
Which activity will you use these shoes for most frequently?
Do you need your shoes to be waterproof?
Will you be wearing these shoes for race days?
How long do you typically run?
Do you need additional stability technology?
Which most closely describes your foot shape?
Your Perfect Matches
Based on your preferences, here are our top recommendations
Not sure if you need neutral shoes, stability shoes, trail shoes, race shoes, or something with more room? This free running shoe finder quiz asks about how you run, where you run, your support needs, and your foot shape. Then it gives you a short list of shoes that may fit your training better.
Use it as a starting point before you compare Brooks, HOKA, Nike, ASICS, New Balance, Saucony and other popular running shoes.
How to use your quiz result
Your result is a shortlist, not a final answer. Start with the top match, then read the fit note and the “skip it if” section. That part matters because a shoe can be great for one runner and wrong for another.
If two shoes look close, choose based on comfort, fit, and how you plan to use them most often. A daily trainer usually works well for most easy runs. A race shoe may feel faster, but it is not always the best choice for beginners or everyday mileage.
Looking for a Brooks, HOKA, Nike or ASICS shoe finder?
Many runners search by brand first. That makes sense if you already like a certain fit. But the best running shoe for you usually depends on more than the logo on the side.
A Brooks Ghost, HOKA Clifton, Nike Pegasus, ASICS Nimbus, New Balance 880 and Saucony Guide can all be good shoes for the right runner. They just do different jobs. Some feel softer. Some feel more stable. Some work better for longer runs, wider feet, trails, or race days.
Brooks shoe finder searches
Brooks is often a good place to start if you want a steady daily trainer or a support shoe. Still, compare fit and ride feel before choosing only by brand.
HOKA shoe finder searches
HOKA usually appeals to runners who like a cushioned ride and a rolling feel. Some runners love that feel, while others prefer a more traditional shoe.
Nike shoe finder searches
Nike has shoes for daily training, speed work and race day. Make sure the shoe matches your training, not just the colour or name.
ASICS shoe finder searches
ASICS has many neutral, cushioned and stability options. Start by deciding whether you want comfort, support, speed, or a mix of all three.
New Balance shoe finder searches
New Balance is worth checking if width options matter to you. Fit can still change by model, so read the fit notes before buying.
Saucony shoe finder searches
Saucony often works well for runners who want a smooth daily trainer, a lower drop feel, or a lighter support option.
Compare the shoe type that fits you best
After you get your quiz result, use these guides to compare more shoes by support, distance, terrain, or foot shape.
Everyday running shoes
Start here if you want one reliable shoe for road runs, easy runs and regular training.
Support and foot shape
Choose this path if you want extra guidance, have flatter feet, or are unsure about neutral versus stability shoes.
Long runs and race goals
Use these guides if you are training for longer distances, marathon day, or higher-mileage weeks.
Trail and off-road running
Pick this path if you run on dirt, gravel, grass, mud, cross-country courses, or technical trails.
What matters when choosing running shoes?
A running shoe does not have to be perfect on paper. It needs to feel right on your foot and match the kind of running you actually do.
- Surface: Road shoes usually work best on pavement and treadmills. Trail shoes usually work better on dirt, rocks, mud and loose ground.
- Distance: Short runs may not need as much cushion. Long runs usually feel better in a shoe that stays comfortable after the first few kilometres.
- Support: Neutral shoes work for many runners. Stability shoes may help if you like a more guided feel or know you overpronate.
- Fit: Your toes should have room to move. Your heel should feel secure. Avoid a shoe that pinches, rubs, or feels sloppy.
- Goal: A daily trainer is often the safest first choice. A race shoe can be useful later, but it is not always the best everyday shoe.
Running shoe test versus gait analysis
This running shoe test is an online guide. It can help you narrow down shoe types and compare common options. It is not the same as an in-person gait analysis, and it should not replace medical advice.
If you have ongoing pain, a recent injury, numbness, or a major change in how you run, consider checking with a qualified health professional or a trusted local running shop. For most runners, this quiz is simply a practical way to make the first shortlist less confusing.
Running shoe finder FAQ
What is a running shoe finder?
A running shoe finder is a short quiz that helps you narrow down shoe options based on your running surface, distance, support needs, race goals and foot shape.
Is this the same as a running shoe test?
Yes, for most shoppers the terms are similar. Some people search for a running shoe test, shoe finder, shoe selector, or running shoe quiz when they want help choosing the right type of shoe.
Can this quiz tell me if I need stability shoes?
It can give you a starting point. If you already know you overpronate or you like a more guided feel, stability shoes may be worth considering. If you are unsure, try to compare comfort and fit first.
Should beginners choose neutral or stability running shoes?
Many beginners start with a comfortable neutral daily trainer. A stability shoe may be a better starting point if you have used support shoes before or if a running shop has helped you choose that type in the past.
Are waterproof running shoes better?
Waterproof shoes may help in wet, cold, or muddy conditions. They can also feel warmer and less breathable. For regular road running, many runners prefer breathable shoes unless they often run in wet weather.
What should I do if my result does not feel right?
Use the result as a guide, not a rule. If the shoe type does not match what feels good on your foot, consider another option in the same category or visit a local running store for help with fit.