Treadmill Running Shoes We Also Tested

We tested over 150 treadmill running shoes, but only six impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some aspects of these sneakers, they didn’t meet our rigorous testing requirements.

• While we love how stylish and responsive lululemon’s Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe is, it lacks stability compared to other sneakers we tested. We also wish it absorbed shock better. 
• Brooks’ Hyperion Max Neutral Running Shoe is ultra-lightweight, weighing just 6.7 ounces. But its thick cushioning is better suited for hard, unforgiving outdoor terrain (like pavement). We found that the thick sole felt unstable while running on the treadmill. 

What We’ve Updated

• Since publishing our initial tested roundup of the best treadmill running shoes, we’ve tested dozens of new options, bringing our total to over 150 pairs tested. We evaluated each pair for its fit, stability, quality, cushioning, responsiveness, support, and value, and have included these new insights in this article.
• Based on our long-term testing and new testing insights, we’ve replaced our picks for two superlatives and added two new ones, including Most Responsive Treadmill Running Shoes and Best Treadmill Running Shoes With Wide Toe Box.

What to Look for When Shopping for Treadmill Running Shoes

• Weight: Since a treadmill belt is a softer surface than asphalt, concrete, or gravel, most runners won't need a shoe with immense cushioning or bulky, grippy soles. Instead, you can wear lighter shoes than you would normally wear outside, especially for speedwork.
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: Heel-to-toe drop is the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and at the forefoot, measured in millimeters. A shoe’s drop can affect your foot strike and which areas take on the most impact while you run. Most running shoes’ drops fall between 8 and 12 millimeters—but some brands are known for having lower drops, in the 4- to 6-millimeter range. Runners who are heel strikers usually prefer shoes with a higher drop because they have more cushioning underneath the heel. A lower drop puts less pressure on your knees and hips and often works better for runners who have a midfoot or forefoot strike.
• Breathability: When running indoors, you don’t get the benefit of natural airflow, so it’s essential to choose a breathable shoe. Not only will a well-ventilated shoe keep your feet cool and comfortable on the treadmill, but you’ll also reduce your risk of blisters. Look for shoes with a mesh upper for good breathability.

How We Tested the Treadmill Running Shoes

To find the best treadmill running shoes, we tested over 150 pairs at home, completing at least three runs a week over the course of a month. Often, we have two different testers run in each shoe to account for differences in feet, running gaits, and personal preferences. When testing treadmill running shoes, we evaluate each pair while considering the following key attributes.

• Fit: Finding the right fit can improve your running form and reduce your risk of injury. First, we run an initial fit test by wearing each pair for a few minutes. Do they feel snug and secure around the heel and midfoot, or are our feet sliding around? Is there enough room to wiggle and splay out our toes? We also note if we feel any tingling or numbness in our toes. We use these observations to determine if the shoe feels true to size, too narrow, or too wide. 
• Cushioning: During test runs on the treadmill, we assess whether the cushioning feels plush or firm. Is it supportive and shock-absorbing? Does the midsole feel too thick, too thin, or just right? We also pay attention to how our feet and joints feel while running and if we notice any pain, discomfort, or fatigue. 
• Comfort: Are the shoes immediately comfortable, or do our feet need to get used to them? Do our toes feel like they’re jammed at the front of the shoe? We pay close attention to the shoe’s upper, too—do our feet get too hot while we run? Do we notice any irritating seams or blisters?
• Stability: Although stability isn’t as crucial for treadmill running as it is for outdoor running, it’s still important to look for running shoes with a durable, stable heel and an even, supportive outsole. Runners who overpronate can benefit from a stability or motion control shoe, according to physical therapist Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT. When evaluating stability, we note whether the shoe has adequate arch and ankle support. We pay attention to whether we feel unsteady or unbalanced in the shoe. We also note if the shoe conforms to our feet, so it feels like we’re running in the shoe, not on it.
• Responsiveness: We assess how effectively the shoe propels us to the next stride. How do the transitions feel? Does the sneaker give energy back to us as we land? We also note how our feet and legs feel after each run and if the shoes change our level of fatigue.
• Quality: We inspect the shoes for any manufacturing flaws and evaluate the durability of the construction and materials. At the end of each testing period, we inspect the shoes to see how they have held up. Are there any unexpected or unusual signs of wear, tear, or odor?
• Value: We wait to check the price of each running shoe until the end of the testing period, after we’ve rated it in all other key categories. How have they held up over time? Considering their overall performance, we determine whether the price seems too high, too low, or a fair value. 

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts helped us understand what key features to look for in a quality pair of treadmill running shoes. While we choose products independently, expert input influences our choices.

• April Gatlin, ACE-CPT, certified personal trainer and master trainer for STRIDE Fitness
• Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT, physical therapist in Sparta, New Jersey
• Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot & Ankle Center

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my treadmill running shoes?

It depends on the type of shoes you wear and your weight, among other factors. Note that treadmill belts are softer and smoother than most outdoor surfaces, so they don’t wear your shoes’ soles down as quickly. You should replace your treadmill running shoes when you notice excessive wear or after approximately 450 to 550 miles, says Prestipino, to avoid injuries that can result from wearing worn-out shoes. 

What running shoes are best for a treadmill?

The best shoes for running on the treadmill are lightweight, supportive, and responsive, with the right amount of cushioning. Keep in mind that a shoe that works for another runner may not be the best choice for you, so you may want to ask experts at a running shoe store for help finding a sneaker that’s suitable for your body, gait, and stride, says Gatlin.

Can I use my running shoes on a treadmill?

Yes, running shoes are the best choice for running on a treadmill because they have the right support and cushioning to protect your feet and joints. Walking shoes aren’t breathable or springy enough and may be too heavy for running, while gym shoes lack the arch support and energy return you need. And winter running shoes, with insulation and waterproofing, may be too warm for indoor running.

Is it okay to wear trail running shoes on a treadmill?

Yes, it's generally okay to wear trail running shoes on a treadmill, as they provide adequate cushioning and support. However, they’re typically not as breathable or lightweight as road running shoes, and those with aggressive lugs on the outsole can actually damage some treadmill belts.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer for Verywell Fit, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. She stays current with the latest shoe technology and has in-depth knowledge of top brands and models on the market. For treadmill running, she finds a shoe like Saucony’s Echelon 10 provides the perfect comfort and support for her neutral gait. For this article, Christine looked over the test results and hands-on tested treadmill running shoes to help compile our top picks.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

Sarah Felbin is a Verywell Fit writer and dancer who uses her fitness experience to inform her testing of fitness products for the brand. She writes about workout recovery, walking, running, and activewear, among other topics.