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    I’m A 2x Marathoner And These Are My Favorite Shoes To Run In

    There’s no shortage of trendy running shoes right now, but not every pair is built to go the distance.

    James Barrett
    by James BarrettHuffPost Contributor

    James is a New Jersey native, Syracuse alum and Art Director in Manhattan.

    Pro tip: if you can fold your shoe into a ball, it’s probably not a shoe you’d want to rely on for long distances. As someone who has run two marathons, I’ve learned the hard way that the right running shoe can make or break your experience, whether you’re training for a race, going on a long walk, or just trying to make your daily miles feel a little less brutal.

    Everyone is different, from their foot arch to their gait, so it’s important to find a shoe that fits you. Like many people, I needed to find a shoe that offers support in the insole, which is exactly what the Brooks Adrenaline does.

    Person wearing athletic sneakers and white socks while standing mid-step on a paved surface. Focus on the shoe design, suited for active lifestyle
    James Barrett

    Over the years, I’ve tested a number of different running shoes while training, and what I like most about the Brooks Adrenaline is how balanced it feels. Some shoes lean heavily into cushioning but sacrifice stability, while others feel supportive but overly stiff. Compared to softer shoes like Hoka’s Clifton or firmer options like the Nike Pegasus, the Adrenaline sits right in the middle.

    The Adrenaline’s just-right middle ground is surprisingly hard to find. It feels supportive without feeling rigid, stable without being clunky, and cushioned enough for long runs without that ultra-soft “sink in” feeling that can make some shoes feel sluggish over time.

    Thanks to a design technology that Brooks called GuideRails, I feel more stability in my arch, ankle and knee. Before I ran in Brooks, I would blister badly in other brands when I hit over three miles. I’ve also found they work well for both running and walking.

    Another standout feature is the shoe’s stability. If you’re looking for a running shoe that helps guide your foot without feeling overly corrective, this model strikes a nice balance.

    That can make a noticeable difference when you start adding distance. A stable shoe can help your stride feel more consistent and comfortable over longer runs, which is something many runners look for when choosing a daily trainer.

    I also think that the price point is very fair. Remember, you get what you pay for and you don’t want to skimp out and develop foot injuries from running in poorly crafted shoes.

    Finding the right running shoe is ultimately personal. One of the biggest mistakes people make when shopping for running shoes is assuming there’s one universally “best” pair. Some runners want maximum softness. Others prefer something firmer and more responsive. And what works well for walking may not be ideal for marathon training. Don’t just buy the shoe your best friend has — many sports stores will look at how you walk and measure your shoe to provide guidance and what to get.

    Close-up of a person lifting a foot, displaying a white running shoe with a mesh design on a textured surface
    James Barrett

    For me, the Brooks Adrenaline has consistently checked the right boxes. It’s supportive without feeling heavy, comfortable enough for everyday wear, and reliable enough that I trust it on longer runs. Whether you’re a beginner or a marathoner, it’s inspiring and exciting to get those miles in, so keep scrolling to get a pair of Adrenalines for yourself.

    Get them from Zappos for $154.95 (available in women's sizes 5–13 in 18 colors and in men's sizes 7–15 in 13 colors).

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.