The 2026 Men’s Health Sneaker Awards

On has always been a technology-first brand, with its CloudTec cushioning's holey midsoles looking like nothing else in the running world. The focus here flips to the upper with On's robot-made LightSpray material, which had been a super-limited option for its race day shoes since late 2024. Now, the first wide-release LightSpray shoe is the Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, a responsive super trainer in its own right. With the LightSpray upper, the kicks are even lighter, bouncier, and deceptively comfortable. I expected a poor fit, and for my foot to slip out of the laceless upper; instead, the wear test proved the material really just works. The shoe is light, comfortable, and responsive, making it more than just a science experiment.

Adidas followed up on last year's best sneaker, the Evo SL, by introducing an update to its iconic Boost midsole, the Hyperboost Edge. This brand-new model might have even one-upped itself in the one area the SL lacked: long runs. I logged more mileage in the super trainer than any other model this year, and I wanted to keep lacing it up. The Hyperboost Edge is a spectacular mix of responsive ride and comfort with an extra dash of style (the Three Stripes signature branding was wisely kept minimal for this model, differentiating it from the rest of the performance line) and impressive durability. It's the type of shoe I'll keep coming back to whenever I need and want a fun, effortless run.

This might be the sleeper hit of the year for speed. The latest iteration of the Cielo X1 model checks all of the boxes. The upper provides a snug, secure fit that feels great. The midsole is dialed in and provides excellent energy return. The foam is soft and supportive without being mushy, and coupled with the rockered bottom and carbon plate, keeps you off your heels and into each step. On race day, you’ll be glad to have this shoe carry you across the finish line—fast.

The Asics Superblast has helped to define the super trainer category since launching in 2022, combining max stack comfort and top-level responsiveness that comes from putting race day–tier tech into training shoes. The updated model has an even more plush ride than the Superblast 2, while still maintaining the line’s trademark stability and bounce. For long runs, it’s hard to beat the comfort and joy the Superblast 3 provides.

Do not sleep on this performance shoe from Skechers. It’s extremely lightweight (less than 7 ounces) and fits the bill for a no-frills daily trainer. The HyperBurst Pro supercritical midsole foam is firm with lots of snappy energy return, but it doesn’t create a ride that’s uncomfortable or unforgiving—just don’t expect that plush, soft feeling we’ve become accustomed to with high-stack training shoes. An H-wing plate adds to that snappiness and helps with transitions for pushing your tempo.

MH Fitness and Reviews Editor Charles Thorp is a fan of this relatively new brand that’s already made waves in performance-training spaces. It recently entered the running category with the Rhythm Runner, a responsive and supportive shoe that can handle everything from short jogs with a baby stroller to marathon training. While it isn’t necessarily marketed as a cross-trainer, it’s stable enough to support you in the gym for general workouts, too. Added bonus: The Rhythm Runner manages to feel and look minimalist in the best possible way, too.

R.A.D. had been on our radar as an upstart brand in the gym space, with a pair of well-regarded CrossFit-centric shoes (including the 2025 MH Sneaker Award-winning R.A.D. One V2) under its belt before branching out into running. Whatever expectations we had were far exceeded with the result, the UFO. The pumped-up super trainer is maybe the most comfortable running shoe of the year, with a high stack of dual-layer PEBA foam that looks like a giant marshmallow but performs just as well as any super compound from the biggest names in running. Add to its specs an out-of-this-world aesthetic that blends aerospace lines and simple, bright colorblocking, and you've got one of the best shoes on the road.

Brooks has created a legacy by providing runners with supreme support and comfort. The latest version of the Adrenaline GTS advances the features we’ve come to expect: plush cushioning, a stable ride, and a well-engineered upper that provides a secure fit. The brand’s signature GuideRails support system helps keep you locked in, providing stability for those daily miles. And better yet, they don’t look like “stability shoes” at all.

This barefoot trainer strikes the perfect balance between minimalism and structure, with a foot-hugging upper and pliable, grippy outsole. The wide toe box and zero-drop design make it ideal for heavy lifting, but there’s still enough support thanks to a reinforced fit system (technically yes, there are laces, but you don’t need to tie them) that you won’t jump out of your shoes for plyos or other explosive movements. Once I slipped them on, I almost forgot I had anything on my feet in the best way.

Barefoot doesn’t need to be basic. Vivo maxxed out its premier training model with a sturdy 2 millimeters outsole and overlays that lock down the heel and midfoot. There’s a lot more shoe here than other minimalist options—but it’s also still flexible, with plenty of space in the forefoot to spread out and splay your toes under heavy weights. Lace them up for a locked-in fit, then let your workout rip.

Nobull made its name in CrossFit gyms and at the NFL Combine, then gained even more cred when Tom Brady came on board. The Drive began as a versatile performance shoe, and the latest iteration strongly builds on that foundation. Nobull brings more breathability and a snappier return to the 2, perfect for interval training and even short running sessions.

Adidas has found a winner in its Lightstrike Pro midsole foam (the same as the beloved Adizero Evo SL sports), and it’s right at home in this new hybrid trainer. The super-light cushioning provides a comfortable base, while internal energy rods offer some stability and aid with turnover. This makes the trainer viable for circuit training and sprints. A high sidewall wraps the outsole and guides to an incut around the midfoot, creating a narrower silhouette back to the heel. While we’ve found this enhances support, remember this is a hybrid trainer and not something we’d be using for heavy-lifting sessions. An engineered mesh upper breathes and doesn’t hold heat, even during our most grueling workouts.

Cross-training shoes are meant to be do-it-all wears for the gym, and the Nike Free Metcon 7 takes that mission seriously. This shoe has consistently been a favorite for its flexibility—but it’s still got the supportive base you’ll need in the gym. The bootie-style design makes it easy to slip on, with a wide heel that gives you stability for your heavy lifts and a supportive overlay for dynamic movements. The Free Metcon is one of those shoes you’ll love so much in the gym that you’ll want to wear it everywhere else.

Hyrox is the biggest thing in fitness at the moment, and the first wave of shoes designed with the competition in mind have mostly taken familiar silhouettes and tweaked them slightly. Then there’s the Dropset Elite. This premium take on a hybrid trainer is maximalist in every way, from the 44 mm stack of Adidas’ premium Lightstrike Pro foam to its grippy Continental outsole and surprisingly wide base and stable heel. Altogether, it’s an extreme package—which performs better than expected for stations like farmer’s carry, lunges, and wall balls, in our experience. This will maybe be too much shoe for some Hyrox athletes (see above for the less extreme Pro model if that’s you), but for peak performers, it’s on the cutting edge.

Since coming onto the scene well over a decade ago, Reebok’s Nano line has long been considered the go-to shoe for CrossFit and HIIT. For a short time, the series seemed to lose its way, but with the X5 and the newer X5 Edge, it is back and better than ever. This souped-up version of a beloved classic brings a reinforced heel and an upgrade to Reebok’s L.A.R. chassis system, making it even better for those heavy lifts. And the brand’s DualResponse EVA Foam helps supply a little energy return, perfect for those short sprints or intervals.

The fourth edition of Nike’s weightlifting shoe delivers the stability and solid platform you need to crush front squats and Olympic lifts alike with a 20 mm heel drop and a two-strap design that delivers ultra-tight midfoot lockdown. And thanks to a softly padded upper, these are the most comfortable lifters on the market.

A souped-up trail runner that’s built for speed hiking, the Katabatic LT Low weighs just 11.4 ounces but doesn’t give up much performance from its beefier brothers. It’s built to lock you in for any terrain, with a conforming heel cup and a roomy forefoot and toe box that accommodate thicker socks for cooler-weather hikes. The Trailhead HD Traction is as rugged as they come and, combined with the compression-molded EVA midsole, provides an ideal package for total support and agility.

Comfort is the first priority for this shoe that can serve as both a solid hiker and accessible trail runner. Why? The 36 mm of The North Face’s Dream foam, a soft, responsive material that provides plenty of energy return. Your feet won’t get too heavy on the trail either—even with the midsole and Surface Ctrl outsole’s 4 mm lugs, the Altamesa 500 V2 still weighs under 10 ounces.

The Speedgoat 7 marks a return to form for this foundational trail running shoe. The comfortable and lightweight update provides a ride that is able to take on all terrains, thanks to an updated Supercritical EVA midsole (which allows for greater energy return) and a Vibram Megagrip outsole with an updated layout of multidirectional lugs. These performance-focused features are combined with a high stack height that keeps you protected from obstacles, expected and unexpected.

The MTL SpeedARC Peak is chock-full of Merrell’s tech specs, built to be the fastest shoe the brand has ever made. We can attest it hits the mark. A dual-layer FloatPro and PEBA foam midsole amount to one of the comfiest trail shoes we’ve tested this year. A Carbon FlexPlate is sandwiched between those two layers to help you create more go with less effort. And the breathable, lightweight upper is made from a combination of Kevlar and an abrasion-resistant polymer blended together for long-lasting durability. If you’re looking to go fast on any terrain (and especially if you’re a shoe geek who loves the cutting edge), here’s your shoe.

The Aeroglide 4 GRVL might be the total package for the trail-curious this year, shining in the gap between pavement and technical forest paths. The lightweight and bouncy midsole provides a great feel underfoot. Pairing that with the rockered shape and 2.5 mm lugs makes turnover and traction exceptional for those side-of-the-road runs, with plenty of coverage and grip for wet surfaces. Gravel-specific footwear is an emerging segment, and this might be the best option for those in-the-middle runs.

You don’t need an entire tech sheet of specs for a solid trail shoe. The Experience Wild 3 has Altra’s signature wide toe box combined with a solid, plush midsole and a 4 mm drop for max comfort. The lugs on the MaxTrac outsole are solid on trail surfaces, but aren’t so aggressive that you’ll struggle on pavement. Best of all: This strong performer is $150, a great entry point for guys just hitting the trail.

The popular Zegama line gets new life under the Nike ACG branding. It’s a rugged update, with an expanded forefoot and midfoot for greater comfort and an improved lockdown. A dual-layer ZoomX and Cushlon 3.0 midsole provides great cushioning and propulsion. Midfoot wings are layered in between the foam to help provide a wider base, which we found helps create stability and push-off on ascents and corners. The built-in bootie collar does a good job of keeping debris out of the shoe (although some gnarly trails might still need a gaiter). Despite gaining some weight, it all comes together superbly for the best Zegama yet.

Long distances of all terrains are no match for the new M1 from Mount to Coast. It leans plush and stable with 38 mm of Jetcell supercritical foam that offers a superb blend of cushion and energy return. This translates to a constantly forgiving ride over all the longest miles we've put it through. The Tunedfit dual lacing system actually helps to dial in your lockdown, no matter what your needs are that day.

Golf shoes don’t just have to provide great traction and stability while allowing you to create superior ground force, they also need to be comfortable enough to wear and walk 18 holes. The TravisMathew NuAge Mega brings the bacon for that walking part, with a generous stack of foam that makes a full round on your feet a breeze. Combined with the heel lock insert and the spike system, it’s one of the best golf shoes we’ve worn in 2026 for just about any type of golfer.

For those needing the ultimate in traction with diagonal and lateral support, look no further than the UA Drive Pro Clone. The adaptive UA Clone upper and soft microfiber layer fit to your foot, helping to create a truly locked-in fit—which you can fully dial in with the lockdown lacing. The dual-foam midsole utilizes the UA Hovr foam, which is arguably the best in golf. This all sits on top of the UA S3 softspikes system to create one of the best-performing golf shoes of the year.

Babolat is among our top choices for pickleball footwear, thanks to the brand’s on-court performance. The SFX4 All Court offers impressive versatility for any surface thanks to a Michelin rubber sole. The wide fit, extended heel, and forefoot bucket support help to create a stable base on all directional movement, whether you’re chasing a backhand or running to the net for a dink.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup brought a lot of drama, excitement, and Adidas cleats. Stars of the soccer pitch like Jude Bellingham, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and David Beckham have counted on the Predator line to keep them ahead of the pack. And while you might not be suiting up in a Manchester United or Real Madrid kit, at least you can lace up like you are. These lightweight Predator Pro boots feature a Primeknit upper that adapts to the shape of your foot and Demonskin rubber spikes that bring better control of the ball.

This is easily fitness director Ebenezer Samuel’s favorite hoops shoe of the year. Nike’s G.T. silo is instantly eye-catching on the court, and it's a standout for any guard’s game, with a sole that makes every jump and landing feel extra-gentle, and traction so good that you can even confidently change directions on grass. If you love spins, hesis, and hard drives, this one’s for you.

The P350 blends NB’s signature styling (so yes, you can wear these when you’re not hooping, too!) with a bouncy midsole and a design that moves with you even when you’re changing directions ultra-quickly—all without shattering your wallet.

The Riviera brings the high-quality materials APL is known for in its performance footwear into the lifestyle space. It’s a canvas sneaker, technically—but the suede accents and leather detailing bring a level of premium not usually seen outside designer fashion houses. It’s retro styling with contemporary quality, making it an endlessly versatile silhouette for all types of outfits.

This climbing-inspired sneaker brings a low-profile approach to the street. The Jasper is extremely comfortable, with a surprisingly plush cushion that hugs the foot and a rubber toe bumper that both protects your toes and provides aesthetic flair. Plenty of colorways and unique tongue-to-toe lacing provide standout moments to match with both big fits and understated looks.

Some icons never lose their allure. This low-to-the-ground runner combines a lightweight nylon frame coupled with suede overlays and leather Swooshes for a timeless look that feels fresh, even after decades. This iteration retains the waffle-patterned sole that delivers dependable traction across dirt, grass, and pavement while paying homage to the design that put Nike on the map.

Leather sneakers can be really annoying. Yes, the material is a cut above synthetics in both quality and durability, but it usually requires a painful break-in period that other, less premium sneakers avoid. This collab between two luxury Italian brands is made of full-grain leather—but it’s among the most comfortable shoes we’ve ever worn right out of the box. It’s a throwback design from Diadora’s soccer archives with some D&G ostentation (you need to really commit to pull off the leopard-print pony-hair detailing), but if you’re up to the splurge, this can be the low-profile flex that completes your football fan aesthetic.

In true Salomon fashion, the XT-Whisper pairs contrasting textures with glossy finishes, giving this trail-inspired sneaker a decidedly style-forward edge. The signature Quicklace system and snug Sensifit make it easy to put on, take off, and lock your foot in place. And there’s no shortage of support in the revival of this model, thanks to the cushioned midsole and grippy outsole which let you comfortably navigate city streets or uneven terrain.

A pioneer in the technical footwear space, Saucony introduced the ProGrid Omni 9, a throwback runner that delivers the perfect mix of comfort and Y2K-inspired style. The real magic is in the details: Saucony’s grid technology uses flexible cushioning filaments to soak up impact and keep your stride feeling balanced, while the midfoot cage wraps the arch to keep your foot planted and prevent unwanted twisting as you move. For added breathability, the mesh upper keeps it light, airy, and comfortable.

The M.OG—a standout from Mark Wahlberg's Municipal brand—has a stylish and simple profile that looks great on the foot, especially in classic white. A perfect fit for light workouts and errands, these shoes were built with comfort in mind, with a multilayered comfort system, M.Float, and elastic laces with a heel designed to make them easy to slip on.

Morjas’s lace-up sneaker channels a timeless nautical aesthetic with its low-profile silhouette, premium suede upper, and muted design that works for the deck and the city. The handcrafted shoe is finished with a thick rubber sole that can handle rough and wet surfaces—a great detail even if you’ll be rocking them with a casual fit.

Cole Haan has long mastered the art of making dress shoes feel like sneakers, and this model blurs that line. The hands-free design lets you slip in and go without bending over, while the cushioned sole keeps every step soft and springy for long days on your feet. Finished with a knit upper that feels light and breathable, it’s the kind of sneaker for the office or vacation.

Steve Madden’s torpedo-shaped sneaker is layered with a mix of smooth suede and unique striped detailing that gives vintage athletic vibes. A thin, rubber sole with a zigzagging pattern gives excellent traction for park hangouts and slippery boat decks.

If you’re firing it up in the kitchen, Kizik’s hands-free design keeps you cool and comfortable with a knit upper that stretches and breathes. The spacious toe box provides extra wiggle room to spread out your feet, while the foam cushioning in the sole helps to take some of the wear and tear out of long hours hustling between stations.

Construction pros don’t have time for a lengthy break-in period, which is why home builder Matt Risinger recommends the Keen work sneaker. “The break-in period is nonexistent,” says Risinger, host of The Build Show on YouTube. The shoe pairs a lightweight feel with a springy foam midsole that stays comfortable even after hours on concrete, while a carbon safety toe provides job site protection without the bulk of traditional work boots. An oil- and slip-resistant outsole rounds out a work shoe that’s built for long days on-site.

Birkenstock sandals can take some time before they become the most comfortable pair in our closet, but that wasn’t the case with this leather slip-on. It felt supportive right out of the box, and only got better with wear as the leather softened and the signature cork-latex footbed gradually molded to our feet. The more we wore it, the better the arch support felt, helping take the edge off long hours spent at our standing desk. Rounding things out is a slip-, oil-, and grease-resistant outsole that keeps you stable on slick floors.

Restaurant workers know there’s no sitting down during a busy service. That’s why Jacob Hadjigeorgis, owner of Jacob’s Pickles, recommends this pair. “The midsole is incredibly plush and does a great job reducing foot fatigue during long shifts, while still looking great outside of work,” he says. New Balance signature plush cushioning stays comfortable through long hours on hard floors, while the grippy outsole helps prevent nasty spills on slick restaurant surfaces.

When you’re logging miles from one patient room to another, the Hoka Bondi 9 has your back (and your feet). The max-cushioned midsole alleviates the brunt of extensive shifts spent on unforgiving hospital floors, while the smooth rocker design helps keep you moving comfortably from one step to the next. Even after 12-plus hours, it still feels remarkably light on foot.

You’re on firm footing when you slip on this model from Skechers. A protective safety toe adds an extra layer of defense against sharp edges, in addition to its slip-resistant sole that ensures you remain planted on wet, oily, and greasy surfaces. For pressure relief, the midsoles use a geometric design to cushion every step you take on hard concrete for long hours on worksites.