The 6 Types of Daily Trainer Running Shoes
We created Supwell's guide to the 6 different types of daily trainers for getting in the majority of your miles. We will cover comfort-oriented workhorses like the Hoka Clifton 10, non-plated shoes with race foams like the Adidas Evo SL, more flexible and lower-stack models like the Puma Velocity Nitro 4, bouncy and versatile shoes like the ASICS Novablast 5, stability-oriented shoes like the Nike Structure 26, and more.
Here’s how we break down each type of daily trainer on the market. From cushioned workhorses to flexible low stack options, non-plated race foam, bouncy all-rounders, legacy staples, and stability-focused picks, daily trainers cover way more ground than most people think. Each category brings a different ride, feel, and purpose depending on mileage, pace, and preference. Knowing the differences makes it way easier to pick the right tool for daily miles.
Cushioned workhorses
This category of daily trainers prioritizes daily comfort over bounce, delivering excellent impact absorption. They feature smooth, robust midsoles designed to work for a wide range of runners. There is nothing mind-blowing about these options, but they are ideal for logging daily aerobic miles in comfort. Shoes that fit into this category are the Nike Vomero 18, Hoka Clifton 10, Brooks Ghost Max 3, Saucony Triumph 23, and the Hoka Skyflow.
Brooks Ghost Max 3
Non-plated race foam
These models are non-plated, but they feature some of the best race foams on the market. They feature elevated midsole compounds and aggressive rockers taken from race shoes. The plateless midsole configurations offer race-day bounce in a more approachable, comfortable package for daily training. The ASICS Megablast, Adidas Evo SL Woven, Saucony Endorphin Azura, and the Nike Vomero Plus are some great options in this category.
Adidas Adizero Evo SL Woven
Flexible and lower stack
These shoes offer lower to the ground rides, often with 36mm of stack and below. The feature flexible platforms, provide ground-feel and allow the foot to move more naturally. They are perfect for hill sprints, strides, and the development of strong mechanics. If this sounds appealing, try the Brooks Glycerin Flex, Adidas Adizero SL2, or the Puma Velocity Nitro 4.
Brooks Glycerin Flex
Legacy models
Legacy models offer more traditional, workmanlike midsoles that are reliable, but lack significant bounce. These shoes are built for the beginner in mind with flatter platforms and more approachable geometries. Their tried-and-true ride profiles prioritize durability over novelty. Some daily trainers that fall into this category are the Saucony Ride 19, ASICS Gel-Cumulus 27, Brooks Glycerin 22, Nike Pegasus 41, and the New Balance 880 v15.
Saucony Ride 19
Bouncy and versatile
This category is more exciting than the legacy models. These models feature modern foam compounds (often TPU, TPEE blends, etc) that offer enhanced energy return. They are comfortable for daily training, but also capable of picking up the pace. They are noticeably lighter and more energetic than traditional EVA-based training shoes. Options in this category include the Brooks Hyperion 3, New Balance 1080 v15, ASICS Novablast 5, Puma Magnify Nitro 3, and the Salomon Aero Glide 3.
New Balance 1080 v15
Stability oriented
The stability-oriented daily trainers feature firm, robust midsoles that provide support for over-pronation and supination. They have gentle, non-aggressive geometries and overt stability elements that aid in injury prevention. Some stability options include the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32, Nike Structure 26, and the Puma Foreverrun Nitro 2.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 32
Supwell App
For great deals on gently used or brand new running shoes, sign up for the Supwell app. You'll get DAILY motivation, the most supportive hobby jogger community, best buy, sell and trade shoe marketplace and exclusive Hobby Jogger gear discounts, including access to the Running Warehouse code that will get you 20% off of clearance shoes.
Join the buy, sell, trade marketplace.
Find your next running shoe
Answer a few questions to find the best shoe based on your preferences and goals
