5 Most Disappointing Running Shoes of 2025
As we close out 2025, we are looking back at the best and the most disappointing running shoes of the year. Find out below why the On Cloudboom Max, New Balance Rebel v5, Adidas Takumi Sen 11, Hoka Rocket X3, and the Nike Vaporfly 4 fell short of both consumer and industry expectations and ended up on this list.
The end of the year always reminds us which shoes truly delivered… and which ones missed the mark. This list highlights the pairs that just didn’t stack up in 2025, whether it was the foams, the pricing, or the overall execution. Even with big expectations and strong brand histories, some models struggled to keep pace with what runners now expect. The Cloudboom Max stood out most, landing at the top for falling short against competitors in comfort, value, and responsiveness. Some shoes have an off year, and this was the group that left us wanting more.
1. On Cloudboom Max
There’s a place in the market for a 4+ hour marathon shoe, but the execution here left us disappointed. From the pricepoint to the low-grade foams, the On CloudboomMax was not competitive with shoes like the S4+ Yogiri and Superblast 2.
On Cloudboom Max
2. New Balance Rebel v5
The non-plated speedy daily segment is hot right now: EVO SL, Velocity Nitro 4, TYR Maverick-V1 Runner, R.A.D UFO, Neo Zen. The list goes on. The Rebel v5 just can't hang with that bunch with its lifeless foam and unprotective feel.
New Balance Rebel v5
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3. Adidas Takumi Sen 11
Given the success of the EVO SL and the Adios Pro 4, we were expecting low-stack greatness from the Takumi Sen 11. It didn't deliver. The geometry felt flat, and the speed assistance was lacking compared to other race shoes.
Adidas Takumi Sen 11
4. Hoka Rocket X3
While some like the Rocket X3 for its stability and normal ride, Hoka neutered one of the lowkey best racers on the market in the X3. Thankfully, Mizuno has kept the spirit of the old Rocket alive in the Wave Rebellion Pro 3 Lo.
Hoka Rocket X 3
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5. Nike Vaporfly 4
The Vapofly 4 is a solid pick from Nike with a lightweight construction and affordable pricepoint on sale, but it doesn't deliver the pep and excitement of other race day shoes like the ASICS Metaspeed series or Puma's top racers.
Nike Vaporfly Next% 4
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