Running is one of those sports that, after some luck and the right gear, you can preserve on doing well to your golden years. I've been a jogger for most of my life, and while at 45, I may not be as speedy as I was previously, I'm certainly nowhere near ready to hang up the phone my sneakers. Let's face it though: When our hips, knees, and ankles have weathered a half century or even more of usage, they're prone to injury and slower to recover than when we were a kid. This is exactly why, if you want to keep your mileage up and stay healthy and pain-free, having a pair of the best running shoes for ladies over 50 is completely essential.
We consulted the experts by what makes a great running shoe for women 50 plus, what brands they like best, and the way to find a pair of running shoes that's perfect for you. Even though all of the shoes on our list are ideal for women of any age, those here are especially great for older runners, who require to take better care of their bodies to ensure that they're in the best shape. One answer to staying free of injuries? Buying new shoes often! You will want to customize the pair a minimum of every 250 miles, so the mathematics on how often you take and make a note of how many miles you've put on your current pair. (It should be here we are at a replacement!)
Keep reading to find out all you need to know about the best running shoes for ladies over 50, or scroll right down to choose the next pair of shoes now!
The Best Athletic shoes for Women Over 50
How To get the best Running Shoes for You
“As we age, we have a tendency to accumulate more range of motion limitations and a potential reduction in strength and stability, so finding a shoe that accommodates your foot structure and provides support and cushioning where needed becomes vital,” Alison McGinnis, a senior physical therapist at Finish Line Physical Therapy, tells Woman's World. “Older runners don't necessarily need to pick a different shoe than younger runners, however they need to care about getting into the best running footwear on their behalf a lot more than younger runners do.”
Finding shoes that suit properly and comfortably are key to avoiding injury while running. But what's right for you can also be wrong for someone else.
“The most important thing for a runner of any age to think about when choosing a running shoe is the fit,” McGinnis says. “None from the features will matter if the shoe doesn't easily fit in all the right places.” She also noted that “the ideal time of day to test athletic shoes reaches no more your day or following a run, when your feet are in their biggest.”
This is important, because the tip of the shoe should be a thumb's width more than the duration of your toes when standing. (Have a trusted companion measure this for you, as your foot will shift in the shoe if you bend down to check.) Another important aspect of a running shoe for older women may be the toe box. It should be wide enough to accommodate the ball of the foot – as well as your toes – without compressing them inwards. In other words, the toe box shouldn't feel uncomfortably tight round the ball of the foot.
When it comes to shape, the silhouette of the shoe should match the silhouette of your foot. To check on, you can test removing the insole of your shoe and then sitting on it. “If any kind of your feet are spilling over the sides, or even the shape doesn't match the form of your foot, proceed to another pair,” suggests McGinnis.
After you have body just right, features for example cushioning, heel drop, arch support, and firmness could be taken into account. Firmer shoes, for example, are usually recommended by experts for running, specially when you are looking at the toes. McGinnis recommends getting a shoe with a toe box that is “flat and never curling upwards. When the shoe is designed with this particular feature, it places a constant stretch using your plantar fascia and Achilles and may result in problems in the future,” she explains.
With so many factors to consider, it may be useful to consult an expert, whether that's a running shoe store employee (many of them do know their stuff), a podiatrist, or perhaps a physiotherapist, who can give you specific recommendations according to your foot type. “Make sure someone is well-versed and it has an identity for treating runners or [recommending running shoes],” Dr. Neal Blitz, DPM tells Woman's World. “A foot specialist generally has a very solid understanding of biomechanics and may identify the proper shoe for you personally.”
Now that you are equipped with expert consultancy by what to consider inside a sneaker, you're ready to start shopping. Keep scrolling to look our picks for the best athletic shoes for women over 50!
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Best athletic shoes for women over 50 with knee pain
Buy from Zappos, $129.95
Why we love to them:
- GuideRails support helps protect your knees
- DNA Loft cushioning provides stability
- Available in 21 colors
As we get older, we're more prone to knee pain, which is why the engineers behind Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 21 running shoe shifted their focus out of your feet to what they call “the most injury-prone part of a runner's body:” the knees! The introduction of their GuideRails feature, which may be seen alongside of the shoe, is built to prevent “excess movement” in this area. In addition, the DNA Loft cushioning offers increased stability along with a smooth transition from heel foot. If you are seeking a far more stable shoe and therefore are prone to knee pain or injury, this is a great option. Indeed, Brooks Adrenaline GTS, or “Go-To-Shoe” may be the shoe I run in each and every day, and also the one I've returned to again and again through the years, after trying many different brands and models.
Happy customer: “I've struggled to obtain the right exercise shoe. I am not a super athlete however i enjoy a good cardio class and I love to walk. These suit my 60-year-old feet perfectly. The firm support has helped my feet and knees and i'm not hurting once i exercise – I believe I've finally found my exercise shoe.”
ASICS GEL-Kayano 27
Best running shoes for ladies 50 plus with ankle pain
Buy from Zappos, $139.95 (originally $160)
Why we like them:
- Ideal for running on roads and difficult surfaces
- Rearfoot and forefoot GEL cushioning systems
- Superior shock absorption
Running can take its toll on probably the most vulnerable areas of the body, and ankles are some of the most typical. Luckily, finding the right running footwear can help prevent issues like sprains and swelling before they happen, or give a more comfortable experience for individuals who suffer from ankle pain. Reviewers praise the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 for its stability and cushioning, saying it's been a game-changer in terms of accommodating their ankles. The shoe was designed with shock absorption in your mind, which makes it a perfect option for running on roads, and also the GEL cushioning systems located at both the rearfoot and forefront alllow for smoother transitions.
Happy customer: “I ran cross country in college and injured my left ankle. I did PT and was seen by multiple orthopedic surgeons. I was told I needed to wear orthotics. Being a vain college kid, I said that was out of the question. Choices then said, “Well it's orthotics or ASICS!” And I've been wearing ASICS since. I have zero ankle pain and can keep up with my workouts.”
Hoka One One Arahi 5
Best running shoes for women over 50 with flat feet
Buy from Zappos, $129.95
Why we love to them:
- J-Frame innovation provides support for overpronation
- Meta-Rocker geometry emulates a more natural gait
- Well-cushioned and lightweight
You might think of Hoka as that popular sneaker brand that young people can't seem to get enough of, but as it turns out, they make fantastic running shoes for people of all ages! The Arahi 5 sneaker particularly is a great option for runners with flat feet, thanks to its trademarked J-Frame innovation. While you will find exceptions, flat-footed runners have a tendency to overpronate, or roll their feet inward upon landing, and also the Arahi 5's J-Frame design provides extra foam support on the side where this typically occurs. Additionally, this shoe comes with Meta-Rocker geometry for a more natural-feeling gait, and somehow seems to strike an ideal balance between being both well-cushioned and light-weight. Maybe the kids understand what they're referring to!
Happy customer: “The Hoka Arahi are the best athletic shoes I have ever worn. I've been a runner for over 3 decades, I overpronate and my feet end up with tired and sore. These shoes let me run pain free – the cushion really is remarkable. I highly recommend these shoes.”
Brooks Ghost 13
Best running shoes for women 50 plus rich in arches
Buy from Zappos, $109.95 (originally $130)
Why we like them:
- Engineered air mesh offers support and breathability
- DNA Loft technology provides extra-soft cushioning
- Available in 16 colors
Not only does the Brooks Ghost 13 have a mesh toe box, like the kind Dr. Blitz recommends, that offer feet with bunions slightly more “give,” additionally, it has heel-to-forefoot DNA Loft technology for ultra-plush cushioning. There are countless 5-star reviews with this best-selling shoe, that also comes with BioMoGo DNA, a responsive foam that offers softness without sacrificing durability. They're also easy on the eyes, with no lack of color combinations to select from, including this vibrant yellow, pink, and blue design.
Happy customer: “These are my personal favorite running shoes ever! Personally i think like I have tried absolutely every brand and type of running shoe available and that i couldn't discover the “perfect” one – These are absolutely my perfect fit! Enough room within the toe box when my feet swell a couple miles in, supportive cushion out of all right places, super soft laces that stay tied, and a non-slip heel cup. LOVE LOVE LOVE! Brooks finally first got it perfect and that i hope they stay by doing this forever.”
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
Best athletic shoes for ladies 50 plus with wide feet
Buy from Zappos, $149.95
Why we love to them:
- Available in wide sizes 5-13
- Fresh Foam underfoot
- Comes in 11 colors
If your feet run wide, don't fret! You will find running shoes created for wider foot sizes, and reviewers can't get enough of the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 sneakers (many write that they have purchased multiple pairs!). Obtainable in wide sizes from 5-13, these ultra-plush athletic shoes include Fresh Foam on the underfoot along with a mesh upper for an all-around comfortable feel. For a more secure, snug fit, the Ultra Heel design hugs the back of your foot, as the “bootie” upper construction ensures everything stays in place. For even more cushioning, this shoe comes with an ortholite sockliner.
Happy customer: “These are my second set of the 1080v11. I now have a pair for employed in the yard and something for working out. I've a lot trouble finding wide toe box shoes. It seems the only real supportive and comfortable ones are from New Balance.”
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 20
Best affordable running shoes for ladies over 50
Buy from Amazon, starting at $82.83
Why we like them:
- FlyteFoam Propel Technology provides supreme bounce
- Reflective materials enhance visibility during low light hours
- Available in 10 colors
When when compared with monthly gym memberships or pricey group classes, running is a relatively inexpensive form of exercise, but the cost of running shoes could be steep. For any high-quality, budget-friendly shoe, we use Asics. The Gel-Cumulus 20 features a heightened landing surface, that allows it to accommodate every single foot strike. Plus, while you'll save on the price, you won't need to sacrifice cushioning: This shoe is made with Asics' own FlyteFoam technology, providing continuous cushiony underfoot support, as well as ample room for the tootsies within the toe area – both seriously key elements for mature runners.
Happy customer: “I have high arches and this problem, so I'm in a lot of pain after walking/running for very long distances. These are the best sneakers That i have ever owned! They have great arch support and ankle support, are flexible, and also have bounce (like you're on the trampoline) – I just ran 5 miles inside them: no foot pain! – I simply ordered a 2nd pair in a different color. I love them.”
Saucony Women's Ride 14
Best athletic shoes for beginning runners over 50
Buy from Zappos, $129.95
Why we love to them:
- Available in regular and wide sizes
- Breathable, sock-like fit
- Comes in 7 colors
Just starting out on your running journey? Congrats! You'll want to locate a running shoe which will keep you comfortable and guarded while you acclimate towards the physical demands of running, as well as for that we love the Women's Ride 14 from Saucony. Available in medium and wide sizes, this shoe incorporates FORMFIT design to give you a breathable, sock-like fit that seems like it had been custom made for your foot. Additionally, it features PWRRUN cushioning to provide just the right balance of softness and responsiveness to inspire longer runs over time. Bonus: this shoe is available in several of Saucony's signature fun color combinations, including the bright coral shown here.
Happy customer: “Great running footwear. I've used for about Four weeks now. Plenty of cushion and comfortable run. Plenty of toe room, which has been had issues with in other shoes.”
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Waveknit
Best lightweight running shoes for ladies over 50
Buy from Zappos, $134.95
Why we love to them:
- Come in 4 colors
- Breathable and flexible design
- Made with performance-enhancing Mizuno Enerzy (foam)
These lightweight, breathable shoes will let you fly over the pavement in style and comfort. The soft, stretchy material offers a sock-like fit, but they're also supportive, offering stability and and plenty of cushion. A carbon rubber outsole provides long-lasting wear, and also the springy midsole will help you perform your best, whether you're managing a 5K or a marathon.
Happy customer: “I used to prefer gel-based shoes but after this problem surgery I've discovered I prefer something having a slightly firmer sole. These work really well with my orthotics, providing adequate support without feeling too blocky or rigid. I additionally have a narrow foot, but aside from needing to pull the laces as much as tighten them, the mediums are very comfortable. They are my second set of Wave Rider Waveknits; I liked the very first pair so well that I ordered the newer model when those wore out.”
New Balance Fresh Foam More v2
Best cushioned running shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $164.95
Why we love to them:
- Fresh Foam midsole provides an ideal combination of cushioning and support
- Removable foam insole
- Ultra Heel conforms for your foot for added support
Shoes that provide more cushioning in many cases are perfect for heel strikers, or runners who get in touch with the ground with their heel first as opposed to their mid-foot or forefoot. “If you are a heel striker, you might need more cushioning to soak up the forces whenever your heel hits the floor. For those who have any joint issues, you may also feel good after some bit more cushioning on the shoe,” recommends McGinnis. If you are seeking a shoe that's around the firmer affiliate with plenty of cushion, the New Balance Fresh Foam More is a high contender. It's engineered with New Balance's own light, ultra-bouncy proprietary foam (aptly dubbed Fresh Foam), which makes it a well-padded respite for your foot.
Happy customer: “These fit me exceptionally well! I've so much foot pain, previous foot surgery, hence wear a double wide and walk incorrectly in general. These footwear have my feet feeling the happiest they have in years! Great cushion and all around comfort, and I notice I'm walking more correctly, too, moreso doing the correct foot roll and putting pressure in the right places. I just ordered another pair!”
Allbirds Women's Tree Dashers
Best treadmill running shoes for women over 50
Buy from Allbirds, $125
Why we like them:
- Made with renewable materials
- SweetFoam midsole provides comfort and stability
- Outsole includes natural rubber traction pads
These Tree Dashers from Allbirds are an all-around great running shoe, however their incredibly lightweight, breathable design means they are ideal for running in your treadmill. As the best treadmills will come equipped with good-grip belts, it's also important to make sure your running shoes won't slip and slide, and the Tree Dashers feature natural rubber traction pads around the outsoles for reinforcement. The unique one-piece upper consists of eucalyptus trees for flexibility and breathability, while the dual-density SweetFoam midsole provides optimal comfort and stability – and also to keep your foot in position, Merino wool lines the heel for additional support. While Allbirds is known for its stylish designs, it's even more regarded because of its eco-conscious utilization of natural, renewable materials, therefore the Tree Dashers will make you feel happy on all levels!
Happy customer: “This is my 4th pair of Allbirds. With aging comes sore feet, however these shoes make my feet feel great, let me be active without pain, and not look like I've old lady running sneakers on. Love them!”
Brooks Glycerin 19
Best adaptive athletic shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $149.95
Why we love to them:
- Available in 9 colors
- DNA LOFT cushioning
- Interior liner adjusts to your stride
The Brooks Glycerin is yet another great shoe, particularly if you have arthritis inside your feet, or other painful issue that needs some extra TLC. A luxurious liner surrounds your foot with softness and expands together with your stride, so you'll be running (or walking!) in comfort for miles.
Happy customer: “Brooks Glycerin is my go to shoe and this new model is amazing. The fit was great, although in most running shoes I need one half size larger than my normal shoe size which one is the same. I additionally need a narrow size which one is perfect. Since I have arthritis in my feet and I'm a mature runner, I hope Brooks will not change this shoe as it is the only real shoe that has the cushion I want and comes in a narrow width. My only complaint is the fact that Brooks gives us ONE COLOR inside a narrow width. And it is not often very attractive. That one is boring light gray. But it seems like a cloud. A gray cloud!“
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
Best athletic shoes having a beveled heel
Buy from Nike, $120
Why we love to them:
- Zoom Air unit in the forefoot enhances responsiveness
- React foam supplies a “springy” effect
- Engineered mesh for breathability and support
Nike's Air Zoom Pegasus, sometimes known as the Peg, is a long-standing favorite in Nike's running footwear collection. The Peg 38 features a beveled, or low and rounded, heel. Shoes having a beveled heel in many cases are preferred by runners, because the shape better aligns with that of their heel bone, allowing the foot to land in a more comfortable position. McGinnis also shared the importance of a well-fitted heel: “You want the back of the [shoe's] heel – to become rigid and comfortable towards the back of your [foot's] heel,” she said. “If you can squish down the back from the [shoe's] heel, then it's too soft to fully support your foot and keep you against sliding around.”
Happy customer: “Awesome runners! They're amazing and work nicely for “supernators.” They're like running on air!”
Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2
Most comfortable running shoes for women over 50
Buy from Nike, $140
Why we love to them:
- Laceless, slip-on design
- FlyKnit Loft material offers extra softness
- Available in black or white
These super-comfy Nike sneakers meet their Phantom namesake by practically “disappearing” in your foot! The laceless, slip-on design was designed to give a soft, smooth running experience, featuring elastic to keep your feet feeling secure. A lot of consideration was taken when crafting this shoe, which concentrates on providing support for the “three phases of a runner's stride” : toe-off, mid-stance, and phone, along with a new and improved FlyKnit Loft material provides triple-layer padding in the forefoot for optimal comfort. The black or white color options are equally sleek, and that we would not be surprised if you made a decision to put them on beyond running!
Happy customer: “These shoes are amazing. I purchased them for long distance running. Seriously these footwear are extremely comfortable. Slip them on and go run all of the miles. I've worn them as much as 14 miles at any given time so far- no pain. No rubbing. No sores on my feet. They stay on nice, snug although not too tight. Cushion is ideal. Highly recommend these for running.”
Brooks Levitate 5
Best springy running shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $149.95
Why we love to them:
- Available in 4 colors
- DNA AMP midsole technology puts a spring in your step
- Upper circular knit material offers more breathability
When you're running, you need to seem like you're just springing along effortlessly, and the Brooks Levitate helps you do just that! Check out the arrow-point pattern within the outsole, that allows your foot to move quickly from heel foot. Combine by using the DNA AMP technology in the midsole, and this shoe delivers maximum springiness! You really can't go wrong with Brooks shoes, which are another solid choice for women over 50 – or anyone of any age!
Happy customer: “I happen to be wearing these footwear ever since they arrived on the scene and that i love them! they push energy back into the feet and legs. I wore another shoe from a different company for years and that i was amazed when I switched to the levitate. they think absolutely bouncy. I recommend them. I am going through two pairs a year at about 400 miles each pair. They're fantastic!”
Brooks Hyperion Tempo
Best athletic shoes for long and short distances for ladies over 50
Buy from Zappos, $149.95
Why we like them:
- 6 color options
- Ideal for speed racing and marathon training
- Wider forefoot area for increased support
Another great shoe from Brooks, the Hyperion Tempo is ideal for ladies who are serious about getting that next PR. Created for speed racing and marathon training, they'll take you across the finish line in fashion and luxury – and therefore are great for women with wider feet, because they possess a wider forefoot area that provides extra support and keeps your entire body in alignment when you are running long distances.
Happy customer: “I am really loving this shoe! I've been running in the Ghost 12 for over annually now but happen to be feeling like these were too “heavy” for tempo and speed runs. As I've consistently been building in strength and distance, I wanted something which felt “quicker”. After a couple of unsuccessful attempts at trying out other brands, I opted for the hyperion and thus far I'm very pleased. They think very light, there is great support with the midsole without feeling too “squishy”. The adjustment from 12mm drop to 8mm drop was pretty smooth. The first few runs my calves were more sore that usual, but I adjusted very quickly. To date I have 40 miles in it and longest run to date has been 9 miles. I actually prefer them to my ghost 12's and have been using for long runs too!”
Saucony Kinvara 12
Best everyday athletic shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $109.95
Why we like them:
- Available in 10 colors
- Lightweight
- Come in medium and wide
These classic lace-up style sneakers are lightweight, responsive, provide plenty of cushion, and are available in three super cute colors. The Saucony Kinvara 12 is a solid choice for runners, walkers, joggers, and exercisers of each and every kind. You may also put them on towards the supermarket! Wherever you go, the feet will thank you.
Happy customer: “Love these footwear. Perfect fit (I usually go a half-size up) and extremely comfortable. I really like the look and also the colors.”
Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
Best shock-reducing running shoes for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $134.95
Why we love to them:
- 5 color options
- Wave technology provides support and stability
- Mizuno Enerzy heel wedge
I'll admit, I've never worn Mizunos myself, but I know lots of runners who swear by them. The Mizuno Wave is really a stability shoe that offers lots of cushion and support, in addition to being lightweight and breathable – all you want within the best running shoes for ladies 50 plus!
Happy customer: “I'm an enormous Mizuno Wave Inspire fan. I've got 2 pairs from the 14s which i love. Originally I purchased these 17s in regular width, as always, and also the toe box is ridiculously small. Nothing beats my 14s, my feet felt so squished. I do not own any pairs of shoes in wide but chose to try them and they're perfect! Unsure why they went so narrow on the toe box this model but if this is an issue for you too, do yourself a favor and give the wides a go! Love this shoe, so much cushion and the stability support is essential to keeping my feet happy.”
New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5
Best running shoes for overpronation for women over 50
Buy from Zappos, $149.95
Why we love to them:
- Available in 3 vibrant colors, as well as black
- Ideal for overpronation
- Removable foam insole
I'm a loyal Brooks customer, but Asics is yet another go-to name in athletic shoes, as well as for women with overpronation, much like me (meaning your foot rolls inward while you move), a good stability shoe like the Vongo v5, that provides lots of support, is essential. A sock-like collar and lightly padded tongue keep the foot cushioned and comfy, and a sturdy rubber outsole offers support for many miles.
Happy customer: “So far so great. I have multiple surgeries on one foot along with a bunion alternatively and so i have problem feet. I like the cushion and I also like the room in the toe box.”
Adidas 4DFWD Shoes
Most innovative athletic shoes for women over 50
Buy from Adidas, $200
Why we like them:
- Sock-like fit
- 3D-printed midsole technology
- Breathable knit upper
Have you heard about 3D printing? Well, these Adidas 4DFWD sneakers utilize it to help make the midsole! It's not necessary to understand the technology to understand the innovative design, or feel the amazing comfort and light-weight spring of these shoes, which are around the forefront of running shoe technology. Runners and walkers alike rave about the subject, and they're next on my small “to-try” list without a doubt!
Happy customer: “Great accessory for my morning walking routine and life. Feels like you're flying, how soft and airy they're. In keeping with size. As my dentist mentioned today -'they are gorgeous!'.”
Adidas Washington Ultraboost 21 Shoes
Best Adidas athletic shoes for women over 50
Buy from Adidas, $180
Why we like them:
- Available in 10 colors
- Made with recycled Primeblue and Parley Ocean Plastic
- Adaptive Primeknit+ upper
Lace in, show up and let everything else fall away as your feet hit the pavement. Built on many years of testing and innovation, Many years of testing entered the Adidas Ultraboost 21s, that are made with cushion under your feet as well as an adaptive upper that feels great on your foot. Extra midfoot and forefoot support support your stride, however the shoe is overall lightweight enough it won't shave a second off your best time. Go forth and PR!
Happy customer: “Amazing sneakers. I like how they feel in the gym as well as on the treadmill. I've not yet used them for running on the highway, as they are a beautiful color that I want to keep in a fit condition. I really like the feel of them and the support they provide for my entire foot and my ankle as well. The style is gorgeous, and the ibis on the inside of the tongue tag is pretty great. If you are converting your size from men's to women's, I recommend a size down as after i ordered my normal size (W7) they were a lot too large, and so i exchanged for any 6. Luckily this method was super easy. Overall these are a great shoe with a lot of spirit!”
Adidas EQ21 Run Shoes
Best athletic shoes under $100 for women over 50
Buy from Adidas, $80
Why we love to them:
- 7 colors to choose from
- Comfortable, lightweight cushioning
- Breathable upper
If you want Adidas shoes, you'll love this super soft, lightweight, and breathable pair. The Adidas EQ21s are cute, functional, and also at less than $100, super affordable as far as athletic shoes go. We love they are made with recycled materials – 20 percent of the uppers are crafted having a minimum of 50 perfect recycled content. Earth-friendly, well-made, and stylish!
Happy customer: “Comfortable, cute, & prepared to move. Since purchasing these, I have taken two trips where walking would be a large part of every day. These footwear have been so easy to put on and go. Plenty of support, but still attracts attention from others. I plan to purchase an additional pair inside a different color since i love them that much.”
