10 Best Running Shoes for Treadmills of 2025
Selecting the right treadmill running shoes requires careful consideration of various factors such as support, cushioning, durability, and fit. With a wide range of options available, it's vital to prioritize features that will optimize performance and reduce the risk of injury during treadmill use.
Our buying guide thoroughly explains the key criteria when choosing treadmill running shoes based on expert insight from Doctor of Physical Therapy Dr. Jeanette De Witt (PT, DPT). We also curated a lineup of our top 10 running shoes for treadmills selected from the best-selling options available online to help you search.
Quick List - Top Running Shoes for Treadmill
Under Armour, Inc.
mybest’s Top Choice! Best Cushioning for Runners Who Want Flexibility and Support
Dr. Jeanette De Witt owns and operates The Wellness Track, LLC. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in Corrective Exercise, Medical Fitness, and Nutrition Education. She is one of ten clinicians in the USA certified in the Total Motion Release technique for reducing pain, restoring symmetry, and improving alignment. Dr. De Witt is credentialed in Exercise Is Medicine with the American College of Sports Medicine. She received her Personal Training Certification, Fitness Nutrition Specialization, and Corrective Exercise Specialization with the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Lina Ichioka is a business and economics student with experience in digital marketing, teaching, and content creation. She has work experience specializing in social media strategy and competitor research. With a multicultural background, she excels in communication, adaptability, and project management.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Do You Really Need Specific Shoes for the Treadmill?
- How to Choose Running Shoes for Treadmills
- Prioritize Cushioning to Protect Your Joints1
- Find the Right Drop for a Balanced Stride2
- Opt for a Wide Toe Box for a Comfortable Run3
- Pay Attention to Materials4
- Choose the Proper Amount of Support for Your Alignment5
- Boost Your Treadmill Performance with the Right Weight6
- More Indoor Exercise Essentials
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Do You Really Need Specific Shoes for the Treadmill?
A dedicated pair of running shoes for the treadmill can enhance comfort, reduce strain, and improve performance. Treadmill surfaces are consistent and controlled, unlike outdoor terrain, which varies in texture and conditions. As a result, treadmill runners may benefit from shoes with optimized cushioning, breathability, and stability to accommodate repetitive impact on a firm, uniform surface.
Wearing outdoor running shoes on a treadmill can lead to unnecessary wear and tear. Trail or road shoes are designed to withstand rough terrain and changing environments, which may not provide the same support and durability when used indoors. Trail shoes with deep lugs may wear down faster on a treadmill, reducing their grip for outdoor runs. Using worn-out outdoor shoes on a treadmill can compromise cushioning and stability, increasing the risk of discomfort or injury.
How to Choose Running Shoes for Treadmills
Here are the key factors to keep in mind when choosing the best running shoes for treadmills.
Prioritize Cushioning to Protect Your Joints
Since treadmill surfaces remain consistently firm, moderate to maximal cushioning is necessary—similar to running on pavement. Unlike trail running, where the terrain naturally absorbs some impact, treadmill runners rely solely on their shoes for shock absorption. While high-end treadmills may be slightly more forgiving than pavement, well-cushioned shoes are essential to minimize stress on the knees, hips, and ankles. Popular cushioning materials include EVA foam, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer foam (TPE), and polyether block amide (PEBA).
Find the Right Drop for a Balanced Stride
A lower drop encourages a natural foot strike, while a higher drop provides extra cushioning for heel-strike runners
Heel-to-toe drop affects stride mechanics and joint strain. A lower drop (4-8mm) encourages a more natural foot strike, reducing excessive stress on the knees and ankles. Higher-drop shoes (10mm+) provide extra heel cushioning, benefiting runners accustomed to a heel-strike pattern. Selecting the right drop depends on individual foot mechanics. Choosing the correct drop helps ensure balance, comfort, and efficiency during treadmill workouts.
Opt for a Wide Toe Box for a Comfortable Run
A wide toe box allows natural toe spread, reducing pressure and improving circulation.
Foot swelling is common during treadmill running due to prolonged movement and heat buildup. A narrow toe box can restrict circulation and lead to discomfort, especially during longer runs. Providing room for toe splay enhances overall stability and running efficiency. For treadmill runners who frequently experience foot fatigue or irritation, selecting shoes with a wide toe box can significantly improve comfort and performance.
Pay Attention to Materials
The materials your shoe is made of can have a significant impact on your indoor running experience.
Stay Cool with Breathable Materials
Since treadmill workouts are indoors, ventilation is essential to prevent overheating and excessive sweating. Shoes with mesh uppers are highly recommended because they enhance airflow and wick moisture away from the feet.
Additionally, mesh uppers' flexibility improves overall comfort, particularly during the push-off phase of the stride. Proper airflow keeps feet cool and extends the shoes' durability by preventing moisture buildup that can degrade materials over time.
Choose Durable Outsoles for Frequent Indoor Running
While outsoles experience less wear indoors than on outdoor terrain, they should still be sturdy enough for repetitive use. Many running shoes incorporate EVA foam or proprietary blends to balance cushioning and longevity.
Choose the Proper Amount of Support for Your Alignment
Runners should choose shoes based on knee and foot alignment, ensuring proper support to maintain a neutral position and prevent imbalance.
Your treadmill running shoes should provide proper arch support. A well-fitted shoe distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and preventing overpronation or supination. To check your alignment, stand in front of a mirror, march in place for 10 seconds, and observe your knee and foot position.
A neutral shoe with moderate support should suffice if your knees face forward and your arches remain stable.
A stability or motion-control shoe may be necessary if your knees collapse inward and your arches appear flat.
If your weight shifts outward, a more cushioned shoe could be beneficial.
Ensuring the right fit before committing to long treadmill sessions improves comfort, reduces injury risk, and enhances overall running performance.
Boost Your Treadmill Performance with the Right Weight
A lightweight training shoe (7-8.8 oz.) provides a balance of cushioning, support, and speed without causing fatigue.
The weight of a running shoe directly affects speed and endurance, making it a key factor for treadmill runners. Lighter shoes help reduce fatigue and allow quicker strides, but some runners worry about durability. However, well-designed lightweight training shoes provide sufficient cushioning and stability for treadmill running, especially if replaced after 300-500 miles of use. Since treadmill running does not require rugged outsole traction like outdoor running, lighter shoes help maintain agility while reducing leg strain over extended workouts.
10 Best Running Shoes for Treadmill Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cushioned | Heel-to-Toe Drop | Wide Toe Box | Mesh | Weight of One Shoe | Outsole | Gender | |||||
1 | Under Armour, Inc. Men's Charged Assert 9 | | mybest’s Top Choice! Best Cushioning for Runners Who Want Flexibility and Support | 10mm | 9.9Oz. | Rubber | Men | ||||
2 | Under Armour, Inc. Men's Charged Surge 4 | | Lightweight Comfort Meets Durable Performance | 8mm | unknown | 10.05Oz. | Rubber | Women | |||
3 | Brooks Sports, Inc. Men’s Ghost Max | | For Runners Who Want a Smooth and Supportive Stride | 6mm | unknown | 9.9Oz. | unknown | Men | |||
4 | Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10 | | Lightweight Comfort With Responsive Cushioning | 10mm | 9.5Oz. | unknown | Men | ||||
5 | ALEADER Women's Energycloud | | The Lightweight, Breathable, and Comfortable Option | unknown | 7.25Oz. | EnergyCloud | Women | ||||
6 | adidas Men's Runfalcon 5 | | A Versatile Sneaker for the No-Fuss Runner | unknown | 9.7Oz. | unknown | Men | ||||
7 | ON AG Women's Cloud 5 | | Best for Those Who Want Fashion and Performance in One | unknown | 7.16Oz. | Rubber | Women | ||||
8 | Skechers Men's GOrun Elevate | | The Lightweight Running Shoe Built for Speed and Comfort | unknown | 8.1Oz. | Rubber | Men | ||||
9 | Brooks Sports, Inc. Men's Adrenaline GTS 21 | | Best Stability Shoe for Runners Seeking Control Without Stiffness | 12mm | 9.1Oz. | Rubber | Men | ||||
10 | Brooks Sports, Inc. Women's Ghost 15 | | Step into Comfort | 12mm | 8.8Oz. | Rubber | Women | ||||
Under Armour, Inc.Men's Charged Assert 9
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
mybest’s Top Choice! Best Cushioning for Runners Who Want Flexibility and Support
| Weight of One Shoe | 9.9Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
Under Armour, Inc. Men's Charged Surge 4
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 8mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- unknown
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
Lightweight Comfort Meets Durable Performance
| Weight of One Shoe | 10.05Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Women |
Brooks Sports, Inc.Men’s Ghost Max
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- unknown
- Mesh
- Outsole
- unknown
For Runners Who Want a Smooth and Supportive Stride
| Weight of One Shoe | 9.9Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
Under ArmourMen's Charged Assert 10
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- unknown
Lightweight Comfort With Responsive Cushioning
The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 offers a responsive cushioning system for comfortable support throughout runs. The shoe's breathable mesh upper enhances airflow, keeping the feet cool, while the durable outsole provides traction. It’s affordable for runners prioritizing a secure, lightweight feel and all-around performance.
| Weight of One Shoe | 9.5Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
ALEADERWomen's Energycloud
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | unknown |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- EnergyCloud
The Lightweight, Breathable, and Comfortable Option
| Weight of One Shoe | 7.25Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Women |
adidasMen's Runfalcon 5
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | unknown |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- unknown
A Versatile Sneaker for the No-Fuss Runner
| Weight of One Shoe | 9.7Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
ON AGWomen's Cloud 5
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | unknown |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
Best for Those Who Want Fashion and Performance in One
| Weight of One Shoe | 7.16Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Women |
SkechersMen's GOrun Elevate
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | unknown |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
The Lightweight Running Shoe Built for Speed and Comfort
| Weight of One Shoe | 8.1Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
Brooks Sports, Inc.Men's Adrenaline GTS 21
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 12mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
Best Stability Shoe for Runners Seeking Control Without Stiffness
| Weight of One Shoe | 9.1Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Men |
Brooks Sports, Inc.Women's Ghost 15
| Cushioned | |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 12mm |
- Wide Toe Box
- Mesh
- Outsole
- Rubber
Step into Comfort
Whether logging daily miles or tackling long-distance runs, the Brooks Women's Ghost 14 delivers reliable support and durability with every step. This versatile running shoe is designed for neutral pronation, offering comfort without sacrificing responsiveness. The segmented crash pad adapts to your stride, ensuring seamless heel-to-toe transitions and reliable surface traction, while the breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and secure. Lightweight yet supportive, this shoe is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and performance.
| Weight of One Shoe | 8.8Oz. |
|---|---|
| Gender | Women |
More Indoor Exercise Essentials
Check out these other great picks to work up a sweat without having to go outdoors.
Top 5 Running Shoes for Treadmill
No. 1: Under Armour, Inc.｜Men's Charged Assert 9
No. 2: Under Armour, Inc.｜ Men's Charged Surge 4
No. 3: Brooks Sports, Inc.｜Men’s Ghost Max
No. 4: Under Armour｜Men's Charged Assert 10
No. 5: ALEADER｜Women's Energycloud
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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