Ranking Every Max Cushion Running Shoe from Softest to Firmest
Max cushion running shoes are becoming more popular, but each one has a unique underfoot foam feel. Below we are ranking every max cushion performance running shoe from softest to firmest so that you can decide which one might be good to add to your running shoe rotation.
Not all max cushion shoes feel the same. Some are marshmallows underfoot, while others lean surprisingly firm despite having huge stacks of foam. We ranked 21 of the most popular max cushion shoes based purely on underfoot softness from squishiest to firmest. Note: we left out a few models that we view more as daily trainers than max cushion shoes, including shoes like the 1080 and Vomero Plus.
#1 - 8: Soft and Bouncy
These are the softest and bounciest max stack shoes on the market, offering cloud-like underfoot experiences for stacking mileage in comfort. Some lean more relaxed and traditional, such as the Skechers Aero Burst and the Kiprun Kipride Max, while others are surprisingly versatile, like the Adidas Hyperboost Edge and the R.A.D UFO. Others, like the Li-Ning Red Hare 9 Ultra, ASICS Superblast 3, Nike Vomero Premium, and the Saucony Paramount Max, are insanely bouncy and fun.
ASICS Superblast 3
Saucony Paramount Max
#9 - 16: Balanced
These shoes have slightly more structured, robust platforms, granting them top-notch protection, support, long run capability, and in some cases, speed assistance, as in the Adidas Prime X3 Strung. The most common feature here is the dual-foam midsole, softer top foams, and firmer, stable bottom foams contribute to this balanced feel. This combination is seen in the On Lightspray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper and the regular version, ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28, Saucony Hurricane 26, and Nike Structure Plus. Some even use plastic plates, like in the Mizuno Neo Vista 3, or carbon-fiber plates, such as in the Hoka Skyward X2.
Mizuno Neo Vista 3
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Hoka Skyward X 2
#17 - 21: Firm and Protective
Firm does not always equal brick. All of these shoes are really solid options with excellent stability and next-level impact absorption. While not the bounciest shoes on the market, these models provide smooth, reliable ride experiences. Some daily trainer options in this segment are the R.A.D Mallow, Puma MagMax 2, Brooks Glycerin Max 2, and Hoka Bondi 9. For even longer distance training and ultra racing, the Mount to Coast C1 is the go-to-shoe.
R.A.D Mallow
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Mount to Coast C1
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