One of the main reasons why I love running is the fact that I can do it anywhere and at any time. I get to see the world in places I never even thought about before. Most of the time, however, I stick to my good old neighborhood street, which is why I had to do some research about the best running shoes for concrete.
If you’re here, I assume you’re like me, or live in a city where you don’t have a lot of options. I mean, it’s not like you can drive for an hour to get outside of the town for your running session every day. However, it’s important to understand that the type of surface you run on has a direct impact on your body.
It’s easy to forget this until it’s too late. The grass is great because it’s easy on your feet, while hard surfaces put a lot of stress on your knees, ankles, and even your hips. Overall, the risk of injury is a lot higher when you’re running on any type of hard ground.
Living in the city means you don’t get a lot of options, so you have to work with what you’ve got. Don’t worry, knowing what are some good running shoes for concrete will help you get the best out of your daily runs. I’m here to help you find the perfect pair.
What to look for in your running shoes for concrete?
Let’s get one thing clear – concrete isn’t the best option when it comes to the surfaces you can run on. It puts a lot of stress on your body, which can lead to some long-term side effects. But, if there’s no other option, you have to work with what you’ve got. Luckily, it’s not impossible.
Because you’re running on literally crushed rocks, you’ll need something that will make you feel like you’re running on clouds. That’s why shoes with enough cushioning and support will be your best workout buddies.
Cushioning in your shoes is there to absorb the excess shock and impact force that you get from running. With enough padding, you’ll protect your feet, ankles, and even your back from stress. Still, you have to be careful. You don’t want your cushioning to be too soft, either.
You need to find the perfect balance. If it’s too thin or soft, your cushioning will increase the risk of injury because your foot won’t be placed in the right way. Not only that, but you’re more likely to get tired faster, too.
On the other hand, cushioning that’s too thick will put you at risk of falling because you won’t feel as stable. I know, all of this sounds more complicated than it needs to be. Don’t worry, we’ll get down to the real deal in a minute.
1. New Balance X 880v12
Who doesn’t love a good old pair of New Balance shoes? I know I do! It seems like they have the right pair for every situation you’re in, and this time it’s no different. Their X 880v12 model will be your perfect choice of running shoes for concrete.
Why? Well, mostly because of their amazing midsole that’s designed to provide the runner with the most comfortable experience, no matter the surface they’re running on. On top of that, their rubber sole will enable you to run even when the streets are still wet from the morning dew.
And, if their incredible midsoles aren’t enough for you, they have another layer of underfoot cushioning that will make you feel like you’re running on the softest ground ever.
When looking for the perfect pair of running shoes, it’s important to find ones that are both lightweight and supportive, and these shoes deliver the perfect balance between the two. And, let me tell you, they’ll probably last you for a long time thanks to their amazing durability.
2. HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8
How could we not mention one of the most popular brands of running shoes on the market today – the HOKA One Ones? You’re probably already sick of hearing how amazing their shoes are, but I’m here to tell you that they definitely live up to the hype. Clifton 8s serve as proof of that!
This model has everything you need in your perfect pair of running shoes for concrete. So, you’re on the hunt for a specific dose of cushioning, a soft upper, and a few color options can’t hurt either, right? Well, these tick all boxes.
I can go on and on about the EVA midsoles and how amazing they are when it comes to performance. But who cares about technicalities, right? Let’s keep it simple – they’ll say goodbye to your sore feet because they’ll protect them from every type of pain that concrete brings.
Putting these shoes on will feel like you’re sinking into pure and ultimate comfort. You’ll never want to take them off. They’re designed to hug your feet, giving you that perfect, cozy, and secure feeling we all seek from our running shoes.
Don’t worry, that won’t make you feel restricted. Despite their ample cushioning, they’re super flexible, responsive, and they have plenty of room for your feet to breathe.
3. Asics Gel-Kayano
Asics Gel-Kayano shoes will help you handle those concrete surfaces like a champ. With their amazing cushioning, they’ll be able to absorb all those hard impacts from your feet hitting the concrete. You definitely won’t feel like you’re running barefoot after some time (I’ve been there).
When it comes to stability, they really changed the game with their deep-cup heels. Say goodbye to wobbly ankles, because this will give them all the support and stability they need. As a result, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable, and you’ll no longer have to deal with joint pain.
That’s not all, of course. I have some good news for runners with flat feet, too. These shoes come with amazing arch support that will help you control the pronation. Your feet won’t roll inward, and it will enable you to distribute the pressure evenly on your whole foot.
What, that’s not enough? Okay, let’s look closer at their midsoles, then. What do we have here? Stability, midfoot support, and extra cushioning? Count me in!
4. Brooks Glycerin 20
Once you try them out, Brooks Glycerin 20s will be the first thing on your mind when you try comfort. They deliver incredible plush cushioning that will protect your feet from the harshness of concrete, no matter how long your running sessions are.
These cloud-like shoes will provide a smooth transition zone, making every step you take even and effortless. Their upper is super flexible, which works incredibly well for those of you who struggle with wide feet. On top of that, your feet will have enough room to wiggle around thanks to the width of their toe box.
The designers didn’t forget about the tongue and ankle collar, either. They’re super padded and responsive, which will make you feel secure and your feet snug. Slipping into your shoes will provide you with immediate comfort and softness.
How could you say no to a cozy hug for your feet, especially when running on concrete? I know I can’t resist it! Let’s not forget about their heel, as well. It’s designed to provide the wearer with stability and keep your feet in place.
On top of that, you’ll be amazed at just how smooth your running sessions are with their amazing tread patterns on the outsole. Perfect amount of traction, no matter the conditions outside. You’ll be able to deal with pretty much any surface.
5. Saucony Triumph 20
Saucony Triumph 20 may be your perfect running buddy. With its 10 mm heel drop, you’ll get the perfect amount of cushioning that will absorb any kind of shock you get when running on concrete. You’ll get the softest landing ever, and you’ll never look back to your old pair.
Their midsole is out of this world, let me tell you that. Let’s get fancy here: it comes with Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam. Okay, but what does that mean exactly? In short – it will make you feel like you’re walking on clouds.
It’s a plush foam with tiny pockets of air that absorb the shock like magic. You can expect a soft and bouncy running session that will make you feel comfortable with every stride. Don’t be surprised if you break a personal record when it comes to distance with these bad boys on your feet!
They’ll hug your feet perfectly with their all-around cushioning (yes, including a padded tongue and ankle collar). Don’t worry, it’s a perfect amount of cushioning that won’t make you feel restricted. You’ll be able to move freely, following the natural stride of your feet.
These shoes check all the boxes. They’re stable, protect your feet well, they have incredible traction, good cushioning, and they’ll enable you to run for miles without getting tired. Isn’t that every runner’s dream come true?
Read more: The Battle Of Running Sneakers: Hoka Vs. Brooks
