My favorite Running Shoes as a Slow Runner, Ranked
Running slowly (for me, this means 15-16 minutes per mile) can mean different running mechanics than someone who runs a mile in half that time. This depends on a lot of factors - cadence and the amount of time one foot spends time in contact with the ground before taking the next step, running form (I’m a midfoot striker, but really you should run however is most comfortable as long as it doesn’t seem to be creating pain), how fatigued I am and the weather, and more.
I love reading and watching shoe reviews, but I’ve realized that sometimes the shoes that work for faster runners, especially carbon-plated shoes, don’t work well for me and my pace.
Here are my top 5 favorite running shoes for speed workouts and/or long runs and what I like best about each. I’ll also include specs like heel drop (the vertical difference between the heel height and the forefoot height), support, and cushioning.
Please note that although I am an ambassador for Brooks Running, this post is not sponsored. I never share a product that I do not, myself, use and love regularly! Some of the links below may get me a small commission, which helps me to keep this blog going. Thank you for your support!
My shoe preferences: 10.5 wide, neutral support, 6-10 mm heel drop
Number 5: ASICS Gel Cumulus 26
The only non-Brooks shoe on the list, the ASICS is soft, comfortable, and moves well with my feet throughout the run - AKA, not rigid.
Specs:
best for: everyday training, race day (any distance)
heel drop: 8 mm
support: neutral, underpronation
cushioning: “extra”
star rating on Amazon: 4.5/5
AI summary from Amazon: Customers find these running shoes comfortable, with one noting they feel like standing on memory foam, and appreciate their durability for long-distance running. The shoes receive positive feedback for their style and color, with one customer mentioning they pair well with scrubs, and customers praise their support, particularly the great arch support. They are super light and hold up well during use. Customers disagree on the fit, with some finding them true to size while others say they run wide.
Number 4: Brooks Ghost 15
This was the first ‘real’ running shoe I ever owned. I loved it so much that I stocked up on 3 pairs at once. Since that time (about 18 months ago), I’ve switched over to the other shoes on this list as my go-to’s, but I always keep the Ghost 15 in rotation. A bit stiffer and less cushioned than the Ghost Max and Glycerin 22, it’s ideal for individuals like me who have hypermobile (too much movement) feet and require a bit more rigidity and the ability to feel the ground with each strike, allowing for better stabilization.
best for: everyday training, race day (any distance)
heel drop: 12 mm
support: neutral
cushioning: “more”
star rating on Amazon: 4.7/5
AI summary from Amazon: Customers find these running shoes comfortable, with feet not hurting and being able to walk for hours. They appreciate the large toe box, great arch support, and durability with no break-in period needed. The shoes receive positive feedback for their quality and value, with one customer noting they're particularly suitable for those on their feet all day.
Click here to purchase.
Number 3: Brooks Hyperion
best for: speed workouts, race day (5K or 10K if slow runner)
heel drop: 8 mm
support: neutral
cushioning: “fast and cushioned,” lighter than Ghost Max or Glycerin 22
star rating on Amazon: 4/5
AI summary from Amazon: unavailable.
Number 2: Brooks Glycerin 22
I had a really tough time deciding between this and the Ghost Max 2 as my #1 shoe choice of 2025. Both are incredibly comfortable for the everyday training run, as well as a long distance race day. The 22’s are the newest version of the Brooks Glycerin and are available in a range of modern color ways. I couldn’t recommend this shoe more!
best for: everyday running, long distance race day
heel drop: 10 mm
support: neutral
cushioning: “most”
star rating on Amazon: 4.5/5
AI summary from Amazon: Customers find these running shoes comfortable with good cushioning, particularly around the heel, and appreciate their true-to-size fit, especially the wide toe box. They receive positive feedback for their support, with one customer noting they're great for sensitive knees, and their durability, with one mentioning they maintain good condition after months of use. Customers like the shoes' appearance, with one highlighting the fresh almond peach colorway, and find them suitable for both walking and running, with one noting they can be worn all day on concrete. Customers consider them worth the price.
Number 1: Brooks Ghost Max 2
Ah, my holy grail. My life partner. My girlfriend. My #1 shoe of all time. A little heavy, but so comfortable for walking, a long day at work, everyday training, long distance running, and travel, too. And this color way with the dusty rose accents?? I mean, come on.
best for: walking, distance running
heel drop: 6 mm
support: neutral
cushioning: “most”
weight: 9.5 oz/269.3 g
star rating on Amazon: 4.5/5
AI summary from Amazon: Customers find these running and walking shoes comfortable, with feet pain virtually gone, and appreciate their true-to-size fit that accommodates custom orthotics well. The shoes offer great arch support, particularly for flat feet, and feature a wide range of colors and styles. They are durable, with one customer noting they hold up well in the washer, and are suitable for all-day wear and long-distance walking. While some customers consider them worth the price, others feel they're not worth the $150 cost.