We Rank Our Top 5 COMFORTABLE Running Shoes | DOR Podcast #240

 

 

 

We Rank Our Top 5 COMFORTABLE Running Shoes
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 240

Sometimes it feels like the running world is always in search of the BEST or the FASTEST shoe, but what about comfort? David, Matt, and Nathan rank their five most comfortable shoes and tell you why, and some of the picks are sure to surprise! They also talk about why shoe comfort is so important and how to judge if/why a shoe will be comfortable for you. Let us know what your most comfy shoes are by leaving a comment or emailing us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com.

Nike Vaporfly 4 Review (2025): Midfoot and Heel Striker Perspectives

Nike Vaporfly 4 Review
By Matthew Klein and Andrea Myers

Since the debut of the original industry-changing Vaporfly OG, the series has mostly gone through small changes. The stack height slowly increased from the original, which only sat at 31 mm / 21 mm. The weight fluctuated from 6.5 oz to the 7 oz range briefly and then back down to the mid-6 oz range. The upper is what has changed most often, but it has always been easy to spot a Vaporfly regardless of its upper. It has been a standout shoe, the lightest on the market until many recently began to pass it. With the Alphafly series gaining traction for distance runners, something was needed to separate the new Vaporfly series from the rest of the pack. The Vaporfly 4 is it, changing almost everything from prior versions. The lightest weight, the lowest volume fit and the firmest midsole of any Vaporfly thus far, the Vaporfly 4 brings a whole new level of aggressiveness to the series.

Monday Shakeout: How Do I Know If I Need A Stability Shoe?

The Monday Shakeout: How Do I Know If I Need A Stability Shoe?
By Matthew Klein

This week, Matt provides more clarity on a commonly asked question: How do I know if I need a Stability Shoe? He summarizes the current research on this subject, addresses some myths and outlines a simple process for figuring this out.

The Science of Short Distance Racing: Biological Impact, Training, and Shoe Recommendations | DOR Podcast #239

 

 

The Science of Short Distance Racing: Biological Impact, Training, and Shoe Recommendations
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 239

These days the marathon seems to get all the hype, but let's not forget the shorter stuff! David and Andrea team up to talk all things shorter distance training & racing. Lately Andrea's been focusing on middle distance races & David's high school & collegiate career ranged from the 800 to the 5k. They dive into the physiology of speed and endurance, explore training methods, talk shoes, and much more.

Best Running Shoes for Beginners (2025)

The Best Running Shoes for Beginners:
In-depth Guide to Choosing Your First Running Shoe
By the Doctors of Running Editorial Team

At Doctors of Running, we frequently get questions from new runners or those who are interested in starting running about footwear. There are so many companies and shoes that looking for a place to start can be overwhelming. Additionally, the amount of marketing jargon and advertising that is immediately thrown at any new runners can either lead to decision paralysis or choosing an inappropriate shoe that causes the person to end up in one of our offices.

Topo Athletic Phantom 4 Review (2025)

Topo Athletic Phantom 4 Review
By Andrea Myers & David Salas

Topo Athletic has a similar design for most of their shoes. Traditionally they use an atomic fit, a slightly more grounded experience, and a relatively lower drop ratio that ranges from 0mm to 5mm. In recent years they have been expanding their shoes to have some offerings with a little more cushion and rocker. The Phantom 4 is a neutral daily training shoe that provides good cushioning underfoot with a balanced rocker for eating daily mileage. 

Monday Shakeout: Spring 2025 Trail Shoe Round-Up

 

Trail Season: Spring 2025 Trail Shoe Round-Up
By David Salas

In this week's Monday Shakeout David shares a round-up of several trail shoes that have released this year and discuss their pros, cons, and our favorite uses for them. We're excited to talk about some of the companies that we don't see as often!

We Share Our Running Injuries and How We Have Managed Them | DOR Podcast #238

 

 

We Share Our Running Injuries and How We Have Managed Them
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 238

No runner's immune to injury, and that goes for our crew too. Matt, David, and Nathan get together to share their recent running and injury struggles. They discuss what led them to injury, how they've adjusted their running to cope, and strategies they've used to rehab and get back to it. We hope our stories can help you can glean some useful tips on dealing with your own ailments. We'd love to hear your stories too! Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram.

Best Running Shoes for Walking (2025)

Beginner's Guide to Walking,
and the Best Running Shoes for Walking

By DOR Editorial Team

While this website is called "Doctors of Running," we spend a great time personally either walking in the shoes we test or clinically treating/working with people who are having issues walking. Running usually takes only an hour or two of our day. The rest of the time is spent standing, sitting and walking. Running shoes have become extremely popular for everyday use outside of running due to their comfort. With that in mind, we decided to pull together a guide for those coming here looking for great running shoes specifically for walking or standing. The following guide provides a general overview of walking along with some guidelines you should keep in mind. At the very end you can find a list of recommendations for specific shoes we have found excellent for walking and through personal experience using all-day through our clinical work. 

Nike Vomero 18 Review (2025)

Nike Vomero 18 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Nike Vomero series has had a variety of personalities over its lifetime. Meant as a premium training shoe compared to the more standard Pegasus, it has switched from being a highly cushioned model to at times being firmer and more responsive than its standard sibling. Version 17 blended all this history together well with a ZoomX top layer, a durable outsole and a one of the lower weights in the shoes history. It was a favorite of the DOR team in 2024. The Nike Vomero 18 takes a different approach by following the maximal trend. A massive stack height, a better upper fit, a more rockered geometry and a heavier weight return this shoe to its premium, higher cushioned and daily training category. Whether all these changes are good should be discussed. 

Best Stable Running Shoes for Racing (2025)

Best Stable Racing Shoes For Those With Stability Needs
By Matt Klein

In this feature, Matt Klein shares his experience trying to find stable racing shoes in a super stack, less stable footwear landscape. He outlines the current status of stability and super shoes, alternatives and a few hopes for the future. While there are no true super racing shoes on the market and technically only 1 mild stability shoe meant for faster efforts, there are a few stable neutral options that may work for those with mild to moderate stability/guidance needs. 

Monday Shakeout: Do Super Shoes Really Impact Running Economy? | Article Review

The Monday Shakeout: Do Super Shoes Really Impact Running Economy? | Article Review
By Matthew Klein 

This week Matt does a research article review on a recent publication in Footwear Science analyzing what components of super shoes really impact running economy and how they do so. This is part of an ongoing series where we attempt to share and disseminate the current peer-reviewed literature relevant to shoes so consumers and developers can make more evidence-informed decisions. 

Top Diadora Shoes to Try + Insight into Their Shoe Design Process | DOR Podcast #237

 

 

Made in Italy: Diadora Shares Insight into Their Shoe Design Process
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 237

Over the past couple of years, Diadora has been making strides in the American marketplace with a unique set of shoes. On this episode, Matt is joined by Bryan Poerner, CEO of Diadora USA to take a look at what makes Diadora special. Bryan discusses the hands-on, small-team approach they take in designing and developing shoes, quite literally hand made all in Italy from the upper to the outsole. They also share their common history of D3 running, a love of music, and more. Tune in for a look at a truly boutique approach to running shoes!

Salomon Aero Glide 3 Review (2025): A Real Contender

Salomon Aero Glide 3 Review
By Matthew Klein

Salomon, a company typically known for its high performing trail running and outdoor gear, has been slowly making its way onto the road running scene. Their first road line, the Sonic series, was interesting, particularly with a unique and early take on guidance. The ride and foams used were not quite up to par with the rest of the industry but attempts were being made. Next came the Aero series with the Aero Glide being the most noticeable. A decent stack height and a relatively lower weight may it a solid shoe, but it was still hampered by some insole issues and an average midsole material. After a few tries, the Salomon Aero Glide 3 gets it right. With the lightest weight of the series and the best midsole foam so far, the Aero Glide 3 brings a noteworthy road trainer from the Salomon line.

Best Running Shoes with Toe Spring

As Doctors of Physical Therapy, we have a bias toward choosing biomechanically appropriate footwear. For several of us, that includes a bias toward shoes that keep the foot/ankle in more natural positions. That does not mean extreme barefoot or minimal type shoes (although those do have their place) but trying to find shoes that encourage appropriate movement rather than putting the body into extremes. The challenge with that is that some people actually do really well in those extremes. An easy example of this is heel drop. While many people seem to do best in mid level drops, there are others who do much better with a higher or lower heel drop. The same can be said of toe spring, or the upward curve under the toes. We generally suggest finding shoes that have a low toe spring angle as we generally suggest staying away from footwear that keeps your body in positional extremes as this allows the toes to be kept in a neutral position. However, some people actually do well in a shoe with more toe spring, so for those who do better with that attribute, this guide is for you. 

Diadora Nucleo 2 Review (2025)

 

Diadora Nucleo 2 Review
By Bach Pham

Diadora is an Italian sports company that emphasizes Italian-made. They have strongly reengaged in running over the past few years, launching a variety of new lines to the market. Some features we've noticed include a fair amount of stability along with a comfortable insole that makes much of their footwear great for walking. Additionally, they have some insanely fun colors. In this review, we focus on their signature daily driver, the Nucleo.

Nike Victory 2 Review: Gold Medalist Racing

Nike Victory 2 Review
By Andrea Myers

The Nike Victory 2 is a super spike that won numerous Olympic gold medals in Paris, including Cole Hocker in the 1500m, Keely Hodgkinson in the 800m, Faith Kipyegon in the 1500m, Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the 5000, and Beatrice Chebet in the 5000 and 10000. It is marketed as a mid distance spike, although the best athletes in the world have found great success at longer distances in it as well, which may partially be due to its (relatively) increased stability over the original version. The Victory 2 features a carbon Flyplate, a two chamber Air Zoom unit, and an Atomknit upper, while remaining one of the lightest spikes on the market.

Best Running Shoes with a Wide Midfoot (2025)

Best Running Shoes with a Wide Midfoot (Base, Not Fit)
By Matt Klein

In this feature, Matt Klein discusses why midfoot width has become a popular form of stability in the max cushion era of running shoes. He provides insights about the science behind midfoot width and then shares his current top running shoes for training, workouts, and racing that have a good amount of width and stability underfoot - that aren't specifically stability shoes. We will keep this article updated with new shoes that come out that fit the bill.

Buy or Sell? Shoes over 40mm Should Be Legal, Shoes Don’t Need Annual Updates, All Shoes Don’t Need to Be Max Stacked | DOR Podcast #236

 

 

Buy or Sell? Shoes over 40mm Should Be Legal, Shoes Don’t Need Annual Updates, All Shoes Don’t Need to Be Max Stacked
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 236

Catch David and Matt on another edition of our favorite debate game: buy or sell! They cover super shoes over 40mm, brand fit issues, stability super shoes, flexible racers, yearly updates, laces, and more. Tune in for some hot, and slightly unhinged, takes.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 Review (2024): 100 Mile Update

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Kayano experienced an extreme overhaul as it entered its third decade. Transitioning from a consistent traditional medially posted shoe, the new Kayano featured both stable neutral and geometrical stable elements combined with a unique resilient midfoot block meant to spring the arch into and out of pronation. The result was somewhat polarizing, but the Kayano series has maintained its popularity fitting into today's maximal world. Version 31 makes some subtle changes that refine the upper, increases the midfoot bounce and continues this trajectory as an enlightened premium stability shoe. 

The Most Durable Running Shoes (2025)

Shoes, like most things, are getting more expensive each year. When I was working in running stores almost 20 years ago, I was shocked when shoes started to consistently hit $100. Now, shoes in that price range are considered "budget running shoes" while the standard shoes cost $140-$200 (or more). While foams, upper materials and rides have dramatically improved, durability has seemed to suffer over the years. While at one time you could reliably expect a shoe to last 300-500 miles (running stores and companies would always say), now many shoes are lasting far less than that. Particularly with my unique biomechanics, reporting on durability is a key feature I assess when reviewing and testing shoes. With increasing costs and economic challenges, I have decided to put together a list of the most durable running to help people find shoes that will last, especially for those who are hard on shoes.

ASICS Metafuji Trail Review (2025)

ASICS Metafuji Trail Review
By Matthew Klein

Now that road super racing shoes have been around long enough, trail super racing shoes are beginning to drop from every company. With an already solid trail line up, the Metafuji trail fits a unique niche as a carbon plated, top-layer super foam trail racing shoe. Featuring one of the tallest stack heights in the line, it is also one of the lightest, giving it a strong head start as a racing shoe. A fast ride underfoot is only matched with the aggressiveness, making it a solid option for those who are able to control it. What is required to pull that off is worth talking about.

All about IT Band Syndrome and New Shoes from ASICS and Diadora | DOR Podcast #235

 

 

All about IT Band Syndrome and New Shoes from ASICS and Diadora
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 235

Are you experiencing pain on the outside of your knee? Join Nate and Matt as they dive deep into the world of Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome. They'll break down the anatomy of the IT band, explore common risk factors, and discuss effective strategies for managing and recovering from this common runner's ailment. Plus, they'll give you their take on the two updates from ASICS & Diadora: the Cumulus 27 and the Gara Carbon 2.

Hoka Mafate X Review (2025)

Hoka Mafate X Review
By Matthew Klein

Now that much of the "super" technology has been in road shoes for some time, it is no surprise to see it start to bleed into the trail world. Companies have been putting plates in trail shoes for years as rock plates, so a move to carbon plates is not that much of a leap. The addition of softer superfoams is, with a new "super trail shoe" category emerging. The Hoka Mafate series, long viewed as a faster, more aggressive trail shoe for ultra distances, gets the carbon plate and PEBA foam top layer treatment. In addition to these updates comes an incredible stack height that moves it to being one of the tallest trail shoes on the market. Despite all these new things, the biggest question still remains, "How does it perform?"

The Monday Shakeout: Do Trail Shoes Really Need To Be Super?

The Monday Shakeout: Do Trail Shoes Really Need To Be Super?
By Matthew Klein

This week we address the increasing addition of carbon fiber plates in trail shoes and the emerging number of "Super" trail shoes. While there has been plenty of research on the efficiency benefits of super shoes designed for road, the research on them in trail running has just begun to emerge.

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Analysis: Differing Opinions! and Thoughts on Super Shoes for Shorter Distances | DOR Podcast #234

 

 

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Analysis: Differing Opinions! and Thoughts on Super Shoes for Shorter Distances
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 234

If you're a regular pod listener, you know we love a little friendly disagreement. Matt & Andrea pair up to share their differing opinions on the new Hoka Cielo X 1 2.0. As is often the case, they've had very different experiences, especially in such an aggressively designed racing shoe. They also ruminate on the future of super shoes and how to find racing shoes that line up best with your mechanics.

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes (2025)

 

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes
By DOR Editorial Team

↓ Jump to Carbon Plated Shoes A-Z |  ↓ Jump to Best Plated Shoes for 5k to Marathon

The current trend in racing shoes has been toward super foams and carbon fiber plates. Although plates have been used in the past, their popularity has surged. A new age of fast shoes has come about and now a variety of companies have released their products (some in small batches). For the first time (almost ever) there is an interest from the general public (and not just the competitive runners) in finding the fastest shoe to get them across the finish line. We at Doctors of Running thought it would be helpful to have a guide to all the current models to help you choose if and which one may be right for you.

Diadora Gara Carbon 2 Review (2025)

Diadora Gara Carbon 2 Review
By Matt Klein and Andrea Myers

The Diadora Gara Carbon was Diadora's first venture into the super shoe category. The Gara Carbon featured a PEBA midsole called Anima PBX, a carbon plate designed in collaboration with Ducati, and a Matryx mesh upper. Diadora claims that Anima PBX provides total rebound of 80% while reducing weight by 40%. Its fit is notable for a wider and higher volume toe box as compared to most super shoes on the market, but its $300 price tag also makes it one of the most expensive. Version 2 keeps most things intact, with the upper receiving some material changes.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Review (2025)

On Cloudsurfer 2 Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

The original On Cloudsurfer model gained a lot of attention for being very soft and a bit different from the normal offerings from On. They branched away from the traditional Speedboard geometry and introduced what they call CloudTec Phase.  CloudTec Phase is a midsole that has diagonal and tuned holes throughout its length to help with shock absorption and propulsion. Their goal is to make a soft and effortless ride. The 2nd iteration of the Cloudsurfer sees a newly tuned CloudTec Phase, upper construction, and a more grippy and durable outsole. This is meant to be a daily workhorse training shoe. 

Monday Shakeout: Physical Therapy Jokes, Part II

 

The Monday Shakeout: Physical Therapy Jokes Part II 
By Matthew Klein

This week we do something different. Most people who view, listen to and read our content have been spared from Matt's constant joking. While we understand he is a father, it is often a bit much. So in the name of equality, he has decided to bother all of you with this too.

All About Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Do Shoes Cause Knee Pain?) | DOR Podcast #233

 

 

All About Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 233

Knee pain, or patellofemoral pain syndrome, can be a thorn in the side for so many runners. Much like shin splints, it can present many ways, all of them frustrating. Nathan and David get together to provide some clarity on this frustrating injury. They look at the anatomy of the knee, common PFPS symptoms, keys for rehab, and of course, shoes.

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27 Review (2025)

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27 Review
By Matthew Klein

The ASICS GEL-Cumulus is one of the legacy series of shoes, continuing to stand out as the straight forward neutral daily training shoe of the ASICS line-up. I refer to this as a legacy shoe simply because it was already solidly established in the running footwear world even when I worked in running stores 16 years ago. Over the 27 years this shoe has been around, it has evolved an incredible amount. Drastically different foams, geometries, drop and a much lower weight are some of the differences that have occurred despite the mainstream place this shoe has held. Version 27 continues this trend weighing in over two ounces less than the version I sold 16 years ago with a much taller stack height, yet staying simple with a straightforward ride and fit that should work for a variety of people. 

Xero Scrambler Low EV - 100 Mile Review (2025)

Xero Scrambler Low EV Review
By Matthew Klein

While I have been a fan of minimalist shoes for years, finding a great one for true trail running has been a struggle. Trails often require extensive protection from aggressive obstacles and tougher uppers that can handle abrasions from debris and other things. Additionally, I have to be really motivated to use a minimal trail shoe as most of my training is on roads with my daughter. Pushing a stroller through trails is its own challenge, let alone while wearing minimal shoes. I was lucky enough to be sent the Scrambler Low EV from Xero back in August of 2024. Initially, I expected to do primarily walking in them with some light jogging. However, I ended up wearing these for almost everything. From teaching, in clinic, to walking, lifting, hiking and even some significant running, I have used these shoes for everything. With 100 miles on my pair and next to no wear on the outsole, Xero continues with the incredibly tough Scrambler line that should be on the try-on list for any minimalist runner looking to hit the trails. 

The Monday Shakeout: A Placebo Effect in Super Shoes For Recreational Runners?

The Monday Shakeout: A Placebo Effect in Super Shoes For Recreational Runners?
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt does a brief research article review on the potential belief impact of super shoes on performance. While the effects of super shoes are still hotly debated, there has been some consideration that some effects may extend beyond simple biomechanics. Follow along as Matt takes on a journey of how his brain analyzes current literature.

Mailbag! How Do Shoes Help Us Run Farther? Super Shoe Advice? + Breakdown of New Stability Footwear in 2025 | DOR Podcast #232

 

 

Mailbag! How Do Shoes Help Us Run Farther? Super Shoe Advice? + Breakdown of New Stability Footwear in 2025
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 232

Matt Klein and David Salas are here for another mailbag episode where we answer your questions. In this edition, they cover shoes, injury rehab, training advice and more. Are there any firmer super trainers? Do you need to size up your shoes for marathon racing? What are the best strategies for dealing with shin pain? Tune in for answers to these and much more. Want your question answered? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review (2025)

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matt Klein

The original Cielo X1 was a crazy shoe. An above legal stack height, an insanely bouncy ride that made the shoe run faster than its relatively higher weight, a rare laterally biased super shoe that worked well for those with medial stability needs and a design that made it work well for both elite and recreational runners. Its major limitations were the above legal stack height and the higher weight, but it made up for that by being more comfortable than many other super racing shoes. Some argued it was better classified as a super trainer but many people have used it for high-quality races. That feedback was clearly integrated in version two, which returns as a compete overhaul. The Cielo X1 2.0 is a much lighter shoe with a "technically" legal stack height, a narrower sole with a medial midfoot cut out and a far more snug upper that takes the series from crazy to aggressive. 

Xero HFS Original vs. HFS II | Comparison Review (2025)

Xero HFS Original vs. HFS II: A Comparison Review
By David Salas

Xero is a company that prides themselves on creating high quality minimalist shoes. Xero shoes come in a variety of uses for active lifestyles. Some models are performance based, while others lean more towards casual wear. The HFS line focuses on performance and gives you a balanced running and walking experience for daily efforts.  

Adidas Supernova Solution 2 Review (2025)

Adidas Supernova Solution 2 Review
By Matthew Klein 

It has been 4 years since we reviewed an Adidas shoe with a stability label. The company that once had the best lightweight stability shoe (the Tempo series) and several mild stability racing shoes (most available in Asia) had everything disappear except for heavy, clunky Adidas Solar ST. Recent years has brought a new organization of their shoes, with the debut of the Adistar series (which started off heavy and clunky but improved) and the Supernova Solution series. I did not try the original Solution, although I was curious, given the reported lighter weight and PEBA midsole. After curiosity got the better of me, I purchased my own pair of the Adidas Supernova Solution 2 and have been pleasantly surprised. The company that had seemed to forget its lineage of great lightweight stability shoes has brought something to the table that rivals the Saucony Tempus 2, the only other PEBA-based stability shoe on the market. While not perfect, it is now one of only two lighter options for those wanting a PEBA-based midsole in a stability shoe that can handle training and even workouts and races for some. 

We Rank Our Top 5 Daily Trainers from ’23-’25 | DOR Podcast #231

 

We Rank Our Top 5 Daily Trainers from ’23-’25
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 231

On this episode of the pod, Matt & David get together to rank their five favorite daily trainers from the past two (ish) years. They discuss what made the shoes work for them, what could have ranked them higher, and what to look out for when picking daily trainers for yourself. Let us know what your favorite daily trainers are! Drop a comment or email us at doctorsofrunning@mail.com.

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Review (2025)

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Review
By Matthew Klein

The original Puma ForeverRun Nitro was a conundrum. It was an exciting addition to the stability category in a time when that category was shrinking. It provided several unique guidance components, including a slightly elevated medial 1st MTP joint, a slight elevation in the insole to act as a mild metatarsal lift, a guidance line in the outsole and a medial sidewall. However, a clunky heel, a challenging fit and what ended being a shoe better for forefoot strikers felt like an incomplete package. Fortunately, Puma put some serious work into the newest version, which returns an almost completely different and far better shoe. A far smoother heel transition, a new stability design and a far more comfortable upper takes the ForeverRun Nitro serious from a speed bump to a front line contender among stability shoes. 

On Cloudsurfer Next Review (2025)

On Cloudsurfer Next Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

When On initially came onto the footwear scene, many people dismissed their footwear as athleisure shoes. Though aesthetically pleasing for many, On has continued to push forward and pump out many run specific models. One of the recent lines of shoes that many grew to enjoy is the Surfer line. The Cloudsurfer uses a midsole that they call Cloudtec Phase, which does not use the traditional Speedboard seen in On running shoes. The On Cloudsurfer is categorized as a daily training shoe, while the On Cloudsurfer Next is a lighter training shoe that gives versatility for workouts and long runs.  

This or That? Comparing the Best Max Cushion and Super Shoes Available Now | DOR Podcast #230

 

This or That? Comparing the Best Max Cushion and Super Shoes Available Now
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 230

Supplements areeverywhere these days, from ads to influencers, to athletes. Andrea is joined by returning guest Jenn Giles (MS, RDN, CSSD) to sort through the myriad of supplements available to runners. Jenn gives us valuable insight on how to find safe and true-to-the-label supplements, which is harder than it may seem. They take a look at the performance benefits (and risks) of things like caffeine, protein powder, and vitamin D, and explore newly popular possible performance enhancers like ketones and sodium bicarbonate.

The Best Stable Neutral Running Shoes (2025)

When we put together our Guide to Stability, we also helped define a segment of running shoes that we felt existed, but wasn't amplified. We ended up coining the term "stable neutral" to help put a name to the trend. Stable neutral shoes have steadily become a growing part of the industry in recent years. Especially as maximal cushioning as gone from a corner of running to the norm, companies have been working to balance these tall stack heights with a variety of design features to create stable platforms. In this feature, we further define stable neutral shoes and offer our current favorites in the market today.

Brooks Launch 11 Review (2025)

Brooks Running Launch 11 Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

As a company, Brooks has always done a good job of having a shoe at a price point that will work for nearly all consumers. The entry level lines have traditionally been the Brooks Launch and Revel. The Revel has focused on easy efforts, while the Launch focuses on having a more lively feel to it. The newest iteration of the Launch uses DNA Flash, a supercritical midsole, as the main base. The forefoot has a touch of DNA Flash V2 for some additional bounce and snappiness. The Launch is an entry level speed day shoe or lightweight trainer. 

Monday Shakeout: Best Racing Shoes that Can Handle Orthotics?

The Monday Shakeout: Best Racing Shoes that Can Handle Orthotics?
By Matthew Klein

This week we talk about whether super racing shoes and orthotics mix. While most do not (we explain why below), there are still some options out there for those that feel most comfortable or prefer to run with their orthotics. We want to remind you that racing shoes are not typically designed with orthotics in mind but as always we will try to provide some guidance on finding a solution. 

From Caffeine to Vitamins: Which Supplements are Best for Runners? | DOR Podcast #229

  

 

From Caffeine to Vitamins: Which Supplements are Best for Runners?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 229

Supplements areeverywhere these days, from ads to influencers, to athletes. Andrea is joined by returning guest Jenn Giles (MS, RDN, CSSD) to sort through the myriad of supplements available to runners. Jenn gives us valuable insight on how to find safe and true-to-the-label supplements, which is harder than it may seem. They take a look at the performance benefits (and risks) of things like caffeine, protein powder, and vitamin D, and explore newly popular possible performance enhancers like ketones and sodium bicarbonate.

A Guide to Running Shoe Terminology

A Guide to Running Shoe Terminology
By Matthew Klein

This week we have decided to define several terms that we use frequently but have begun to realize are not common language. As a group of clinicians and educators, our goal is to help people understand what they are putting on their feet or how they are training. This can include terms and jargon that we may take our understanding of for granted, so to help you along this journey of knowledge, we have laid out several below that we commonly use. This list will likely evolve and we may even move this to a more official page. For now, we hope this helps clarify our language!

Nike Pegasus Premium Review (2025)

Nike Pegasus Premium Review
By Matthew Klein

The Nike Pegasus is the oldest running shoe series currently on the market. There have been a few variations over the 40+ years this shoe including the Pegasus Turbo, Pegasus Trail and most recently the Pegasus Plus. A new move by Nike will now bring us three levels of each of their trainers (Pegasus, Vomero and Structure) including a plus version, the inline version and a premium version.  The Pegasus Premium is the first super stack Pegasus with a superfoam ZoomX top layer, full-length Zoom Air, and a bottom layer of ReactX. This makes for a unique shoe that will also work for a unique runner. 

On Cloudboom Strike Review (2024): Their Bounciest Super Shoe Yet

On Cloudboom Strike Review
By David, Salas, Nathan Brown and Andrea Myers

Due to some recent success from some of their major athletes, such as Helen Obiri, On Running has had a lot more eyes looking at their super shoes. On decided to continue pushing innovation towards a more unique super shoe offering in the Cloudboom Strike by creating what they call a bounce board in the sock liner. This creates a softer and more plush loading experience through toe off on the carbon plate. Was it a hit for the team? Find out below.  

NEW: 100 Mile Review of the On Cloudboom Strike

Mailbag! Best Shoes for Shin Splints? The Role of Flexibility in Shoes? Best Ultramarathon Shoes? | DOR Podcast #228

 

 

Mailbag! Best Shoes for Shin Splints? The Role of Flexibility in Shoes? Best Ultramarathon Shoes?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 228

We're back with a new mailbag episode! The team answers your running and running shoe questions. In this edition, the team discusses shin splints and the best shoes that we'd look for in dealing with them. They also break down their favorite walking shoes and discuss some of our favorite options for ultramarathons. Got a question for our next mailbag? Send it over to doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!