Next year’s running shoes are already being shown off. Here are my favorites

Whether you're a dedicated, daily runner or just enjoy getting out on the road several times a month, having a good pair of running shoes is key. While there's no shortage of great shoe options available now, companies are already demoing and showing off what is coming in 2026. During this year's The Running Event, various running shoe manufacturers have brought their latest models to display and discuss.

It's hard not to get preoccupied with the shoes you wear if you run regularly. I run 100+ miles each month, so having a good pair of shoes is these are a critical tool. Plus, there's a just desire to try a company's latest designs for foam, upper material, or traction. As I've searched and seen some of next year's offerings, four shoes specifically have stuck out. These are ones I'm most excited for and tempted to try.

Tracksmith Eliot Ryder

When Tracksmith first debuted its daily trainer shoe, the Eilot Runner I was skeptical of its high price. But after using it for more than six months, I was constantly impressed by its non-plated energetic feel from the Pebax foam. The Eliot Ryder will be out in April of 2026 and bring more stack height, along with familiar stylings. That was one of the goals for the company: add cushioning without losing the sleek look. The Ryder will feature a 45mm/37.5mm stack but only weigh 9.5 ounces.

ON Cloudsurfer 3

For me, ON's running shoes have been hit or miss. The first Cloud Monster shoes were a revelation in springy comfort. Other models have been overly firm and not a good fit for my running. While I haven't tried the previous Cloudsurfer shoes, I have kept my eye on reviews. It seems like an ideal daily running shoe, so the upcoming Cloudsurfer 3's 20% softer ride over the previous model is intriguing. Ashley Mateo from Runher Magazine has said that the shoe will debut sometime in the fall of 2026 with a new warp knit upper and have 38mm stack height with "SURREAL" foam.

Saucony Endorphin Azura

Some of the shoes coming out of The Running Event may still have some mystery to them. The Saucony Azura does not. It's been shown off a few times in previous months as the company builds towards a February release for this non-plated daily running shoe. You can even pre-order it now, if you want. I've been a big fan of the Endorphin Speed line since it debuted several years ago. There's something about the Azura's aggressive rocker and PWRRUN PB foam that has me very curious about it. It looks like it could be an ideal rotation piece for a lot of people.

Mount to Coast C1

A newcomer to the running shoe game in the last few years, Mount to Coast is bringing out a new high-stack running shoe. The C1 is a 42mm height supertrainer with the ability to be used on a lot of different terrains. It maintains the dual-lace system and comes in under 9 ounces for a size 9.

I've been using the company's R1 model recently and have been impressed by the fit and feel. The C1 is a tempting option to add even more cushioning.