8 Best Running Shoes for Concrete in 2024
Reviewed by: Ernesto Mendez (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist)
Are you looking for the best running shoes for concrete that can withstand tough terrains with no harm to your feet? Did you know that most of the runner’s body weight is absorbed by their shoes while running on hard surfaces like concrete?
The good news is, having the right pair of running shoes for pavement and hard surfaces can considerably lessen the impact, helping you avoid any injury. This article will guide you through what to look out for in a running shoe if you need it especially for concrete surfaces.
So don’t miss out and read till the end!
In a HURRY? Skip to Our Pick
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 – the ultimate long-distance running shoe. Enjoy the perfect fusion of cushioning and support for high-mileage training. Elevate your style and performance with the sleek Hypoknit upper.
The right pair of running shoes can reduce impact forces while running on hard surfaces like concrete. These models offer enhanced cushioning and shock absorption, improved stability, and support.
Additionally, they promote reduced impact on joints and muscles to keep you safe from injuries. Cushioned shoes with motion control technology reduce excessive movement as well as provide good traction levels to prevent injury from slippage.
When choosing the best shoes for running on concrete, look for features such as cushioning and padding, especially gel and EVA materials. Besides, consider arch support, durability, traction, midsole and outsole material composition, as well as upper construction.
Top 8 Best Running Shoes for Concrete Reviewed
- New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoe – Top Pick
- Nike Men’s Running Shoe – The Best Fit
- Saucony Men’s Guide 16 Sneaker – The Most Stylish
- Adidas Men’s Duramo 10 Running Shoe – Budget Pick
- ASICS Men’s NOVABLAST 3 Running Shoes – The Most Responsive
- Brooks Men’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe – The Most Designs
- HOKA ONE ONE Rincon 3 Men’s Running Shoes – The Most Durable
- Running Shoe ALTRA Men’s Paradigm 6 (AL0A5471) – For Extra Support
This section will provide you with a solid overview of the best running shoes for walking on concrete and running on hard surfaces:
| Product | Expert Score | Comfort | Breathability | Stability | Flexibility | Support | Cushioning | Durability | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 5.0 |
| Nike Men’s | 4.9 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 5.0 |
| Saucony Guide 16 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.9 |
| Adidas Duramo 10 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.8 | 4.9 |
| ASICS NOVABLAST 3 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.8 |
| Brooks Ghost 15 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.8 |
| HOKA ONE ONE Rincon 3 Men’s | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 |
| ALTRA AL0A5471 Paradigm 6 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.8 |
Let’s take a look at the best shoes for running on concrete from different brands and familiarize ourselves with their characteristics. These particular shoe models were chosen because they have the appropriate properties that will allow you to run on hard surfaces without feeling discomfort, regardless of the distance.
1. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoe
Top Pick
Running Shoe New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12
Highly recommended by runners across the world, this New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X offers superior stability and cushioning to reduce joint stress on concrete surfaces.
Comfort:
Breathability:
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The New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 is a long-distance running shoe that provides the ideal combination of cushioning and support for high mileage training. Built with top performance in mind, the Hypoknit upper creates an incredibly stylish look while still delivering optimal performance.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: Fresh Foam X
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Hypoknit
- Midsole: Regular
- Drop: Medium
- Colors: 26 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 4.41 oz
- Special features: Lightweight Hypoknit upper
- Size: From 4 to 16 (narrow, medium, wide, x-wide)
- Type: For all kinds of running
Pros:
- Snug and supportive feet
- Comfortable for extra long runs on concrete surfaces
- Roomy toe box
Cons:
- This model runs large, compared to previous versions
2. Nike Men's Running Shoe
The Best Fit
Running Shoe Nike Men’s Vomero
The responsive cushioning eliminates excess impact on joints and muscles, making Nike Men’s Running Sneaker a top choice for those seeking endurance when running on tough surfaces.
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The Nike Men’s Running Sneaker is built for comfort, stability and high energy return in extreme running environments. It features Nike's signature cushioning, providing excellent shock absorption while protecting your feet from harsh concrete floors.
Additionally, the foam-injected midsole creates extra protection against rough terrain so you can keep pushing yourself when training outdoors.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: ZoomX Foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh and leather
- Midsole: Regular
- Drop: Medium
- Colors: 14 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 11.8 oz
- Special features: High energy return
- Size: From 5 to 18
- Type: For everyday running
Pros:
- Anti-abrasion rubber tread
- Reactive pace at every step
- Great cushioning and support
Cons:
- Some users report this model may run large
3. Saucony Men's Guide 16 Sneaker
The Most Stylish
Running Sneaker Saucony Guide 16 For Men
If you're looking for a light-stability running shoe that will give you consistent performance no matter what terrain you elect to tackle, then the Guide 16 from Saucony has got your back.
Comfort:
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The Saucony Men's Guide 16 Sneaker is an absolute fit for runners on concrete surfaces. With a specialized design that prioritizes comfort and support, this shoe delivers balanced cushioning in all the right areas - making it look and feel perfect when worn.
On top of this, the additional layers of PWRRUN foam provide extra shock absorption and protection from impact as you hit hard surfaces like asphalt or pavement.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: PWRRUN foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh
- Midsole: Stable
- Drop: High
- Colors: 14 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 9.5 oz
- Special features: Extra stability
- Size: From 7 to 16 with wide options
- Type: For daily runs
Pros:
- Extra soft and comfortable
- Supportive fit
- Perfect balance
Cons:
- Maybe a bit narrow for wide feet
4. Adidas Men's Duramo 10 Running Shoe
Budget Pick
With its super-light cushioning compared to other running shoes, the Duramos are sure to be a popular pick among concrete runners this season.
Comfort:
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The Adidas Men's Duramo 10 is the perfect choice for runners looking for a top performing running shoe that will protect their feet on concrete surfaces. The breathable mesh upper helps keep feet cool even during long runs, eliminating the risk of overheating and discomfort.
These hard-surface running shoes also have flexible cushioning components, which provide extra comfort as well as absorb any shock from impacts while running.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: Foam
- Outsole: High-traction rubber
- Upper: Mesh and textile
- Midsole: Light
- Drop: Medium
- Colors: 18 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 11 oz
- Special features: High traction for great grip
- Size: from 6.5 to 16
- Type: For long runs
Pros:
- Supportive upper
- Ultralight and breathable
- High-traction rubber
Cons:
- Some users report that this model runs large
5. ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 3 Running Shoes
The Most Responsive
Running Shoes ASICS NOVABLAST 3 For Men
So if you're looking to experience greater performance when running on concrete, the ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 3 Running Shoes are definitely worth considering.
Comfort:
Breathability:
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The ASICS Men's NOVABLAST 3 are designed with runners in mind, offering the perfect combination of ease, support and stability. The on-trend sneaker features a gentle rocker and deep cushioning for an effortlessly comfortable stride.
Its Jacquard mesh upper provides superior comfort as well as breathability to keep your feet cool during those long runs. A heel stabilizer adds extra arch support for overall balance. While improved midsole cushioning ensures that every step is met with improved responsiveness even on concrete surfaces.
- Material: Jacquard
- Sole material: FF BLAST PLUS foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh
- Midsole: Regular
- Drop: Medium
- Colors: 18 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 13.6 oz
- Special features: Supportive heel design
- Size: from 7 to 15
- Type: For all types of running
Pros:
- Enhanced arch support
- Comfortable snug upper
- Improved fit and reduced tongue sliding
Cons:
- Some users find them a bit noisy
6. Brooks Men's Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe
The Most Designs
Running Shoe Brooks Men’s Ghost 15 Neutral
If you are looking for long-lasting comfort but also want solid performance, then look no further than the Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe from Brooks!
Comfort:
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The Brooks Men's Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe is a powerful and reliable choice for running on concrete. With soft cushioning and shock absorption, combined with improved stability and support, this shoe will help you get through those hard-surfaced runs.
The DNA LOFT V2 offers superior impact protection while the high drop gives extra support for heel strikers. Its trusted fit ensures that it is comfortable even after extended periods of wear, making it an ideal daily trainer for running on concrete surfaces.
- Material: Synthetic and fabric
- Sole material: DNA LOFT V2 foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: 3D Fit Print mesh
- Midsole: Neutral
- Drop: High
- Colors: 42 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 9.8 oz
- Special features: Enhanced upper
- Size: from 7 to 15 with wide/X-wide options
- Type: For different types of running loads
Pros:
- Seamless and secure fit
- Soft and protective
- Updated cushioning (comparing to Ghost 14)
Cons:
- Shoe strings may be a bit stiffer
7. HOKA ONE ONE Rincon 3 Men's Running Shoes
The Most Durable
HOKA ONE ONE Rincon 3 Men’s Running Shoes
Hoka are an excellent multi-purpose daily shoe for runners of all levels with its smooth yet stable ride.
Comfort:
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When it comes to hard surface or asphalt, Hoka shoes for concrete have excellent performance. They are renowned for their cushioning capabilities that provide a smooth ride while the superior arch support minimizes fatigue and stress on your feet.
Podiatrists recommend HOKA’s sneakers as one of the best walking and running shoes available today thanks to these features. So if you're looking for a reliable running shoe perfect for any terrain, look no further than Hokas designed specifically with your comfort in mind.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: EVA foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh
- Midsole: Stable
- Drop: Medium
- Colors: 11 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 5.29 oz
- Special features: Full-length EVA midsole
- Size: from 8 to 16.5
- Type: For long runs
Pros:
- Reduce fatigue and stress
- Abrasion-free wear
- Extra durable outsole
Cons:
- May not be the most comfortable for heel strikers
8. Running Shoe ALTRA Men's Paradigm 6 (AL0A5471)
For Extra Support
Running shoes for asphalt and concrete Altra Paradigm 6 ensures maximum comfort combined with support while running on concrete surfaces, making it an ideal choice for those seeking top-notch performance at a great price.
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The ALTRA Men's Paradigm 6 Road Running Shoe is widely considered one of the top running shoes for concrete. This comfortable shoe features Altra’s Balanced Cushioning platform to help encourage a better alignment and form while running.
It also comes with trademarked ALTRA EGO MAX midsole technology that assists in cushioning against harsh impact and rounds out with Guiderails stability.
- Material: Synthetic
- Sole material: EGO MAX foam
- Outsole: Rubber
- Upper: Mesh
- Midsole: Balanced
- Drop: Low
- Colors: 11 colors
- Weight (1 shoe): 10.8 oz
- Special features: Extra medial support
- Size: From 7 to 15
- Type: For all types of running
Pros:
- Enhanced stability and support
- FootShape toe box for a good fit
- Improved foot placement
Cons:
- Some users find the sole too soft
Why Do You Need Special Sneakers for Running on Concrete
You can possibly harm your feet by running on concrete in regular shoes. The thing is that special sneakers designed for hard surfaces provide increased cushioning and shock absorption. They offer improved stability and support, as well as reduced impact on the joints and muscles compared to regular sneakers. Let’s discuss the details:
1. Enhanced Cushioning and Shock Absorption
Running on concrete can cause more impact on your joints, muscles and feet than running in other terrains. To reduce the risk of injury, it's essential to have a good pair of cushioned shoes that provide both shock absorption and foot support for runners.
The best shoes for running on pavement can protect your feet against impact if they offer enough cushioning and support features.
2. Improved Stability and Support
Concrete running shoes provide enhanced midsole support, helping runners maintain a balanced posture while running. They are designed with motion control technology that helps manage the lateral and medial motions of the feet during each stride.
How to Choose the Best Sneakers for Running on Concrete
While choosing the right running shoes, look for specific features that will suit your concrete running needs:
1. Cushioning and Padding
Cushioning and padding in running shoes for concrete is essential to reduce the shock impact on your joints and muscles. Gel cushioning is one of the most popular cushioning materials used by runners, due to its excellent shock-absorbing properties that help protect against high-impact activities.
Pro Tip:
Search for EVA foam or Gel padding material which are crucial components for maximum comfort when running on hard surfaces like concrete. They have a higher level of responsiveness, meaning they follow the natural movements of your feet, helping to reduce excessive movement by providing better control.
2. Arch Support
Proper arch support helps reduce the pressure on the joints and muscles that can be caused by constantly hitting the hard surface. It helps provide stability during a run, making it easier to move quickly and make precise turns.
Additionally, arch support provides cushioning, shock absorption, improved pronation control and better comfort. These are key elements for running on any surface, but are especially helpful on harder surfaces like concrete.
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3. Durability
Concrete surfaces are much harsher than regular trails or roads and sneakers need to be able to withstand that wear-and-tear. The best road running shoe are less likely to break down prematurely due to excessive stress over time from constant use on hard surface floors.
4. Traction
Having good traction means better grip and stability to help prevent slips and falls. Running shoes with heavier tread patterns, like those found in trail runners or winter boots, offer more gripping power than other models.
Some shoes even come with flexible rubber outsoles designed specifically for added traction that will give you a superior sensation when running on concrete surfaces. It is especially relevant for choosing the best women's running shoes for concrete, because women tend to have slightly different balance due to their body shape.
Pro Tip:
Soft sticky rubber compounds also work great but can wear out faster than firmer ones due to wearing down quickly from harder surfaces. If you’re looking for durability, pick something that has both softness and firmness while still providing excellent grip on hard surfaces.
5. Upper
The upper is the part of a running shoe that provides comfort, breathability, and shock-absorption. It also determines how securely the foot fits in the sneaker.
When it comes to shoes for running on asphalt, it’s important to have an upper with features such as mesh overlays for greater breathability and moisture management during long runs.
Additionally, having rubber mudguards on the shoe can protect your skin from abrasion. Make sure to look out for these features when searching for specialized footwear suitable for this surface type.
Is There a Difference between Running on Concrete and Running on Asphalt or a Track?
Running on concrete and asphalt or a track has its own unique challenges, find out more and explore the differences between them.
1. Joint Stress and Impact Absorption
When running on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, you put additional strain on your joints. This is because the impact force is greater when landing in comparison to a softer surface like grass or dirt track.
To reduce the shock and protect your body from injury it is important to have shoes with adequate cushioning and shock absorption when running on asphalt or concrete.
2. Traction and Stability
When it comes to running on hard surfaces like concrete, the tread pattern is one of the key features that matter.
The tread pattern on the bottom of road running shoes is usually smoother than trail shoes which have lugs specially made for off-road traction.
Pro Tip:
Softer rubber lugs or other sticky compounds will deliver better friction when running on concrete. Narrower profiles with more lace loops can provide greater stability to prevent slipping over long strides during track running.
How Can I Avoid Injury when Running on Concrete?
Concrete surfaces can be notoriously hard on the joints and muscles, so as a runner it's important to take measures to stay safe from injury. The main thing here is to wear the right footwear for concrete running.
In addition to appropriate footwear, gradually increase mileage and intensity over time to help prevent muscle tears or similar circumstances. Building up slowly allows the body to adjust accordingly while avoiding burnout or overuse injuries down the road.
Incorporating strength training exercises into your weekly routine can help build endurance and reduce stress on areas that may be damaged by long runs on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Shoes For Concrete Running
Are Running Shoes Good for Concrete Floors?
Running shoes are an excellent choice for concrete surfaces because of their cushioning and support features. They typically feature enhanced padding that can help reduce the impact of running on concrete, protecting your joints and feet from discomfort and injury.
How Often Should I Replace Running Shoes when Running on Concrete?
For runners who are consistently using their shoes on concrete surfaces, it is recommended to replace their sneakers between 300 and 500 miles, which would be comparable to 4-6 months.
Which Hoka Shoes Are Best for Concrete?
When looking for running shoes for asphalt or concrete that can stand up to the hard surface, you’ll want to pay special attention to cushioning and stability. Fortunately, the Rincon 3 is lauded as one of the best Hoka shoes for running on concrete due to its responsive midsole foam and great shock absorption.
What Brooks Shoes Are Best for Concrete?
The Brooks Ghost 15 are considered one the best running shoes for concrete. This highly cushioned model is a good choice for runners as it offers a plush feel and excellent support.
Final Thoughts on the Best Shoes to Run on Concrete
Overall, the best running shoes for concrete are those that provide enhanced cushioning and stability, making them more durable and comfortable to run on this surface. Our top pick - the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 provides shock absorption and arch support designed specifically for concrete running.
These features reduce the impact on your joints while promoting a smoother ride over the hard surfaces. All the models from our list offer an improved experience when it comes to running on the pavement. So choose wisely and stay safe!
What running shoes for hard surface do you prefer? Please share your picks in the comments below.
Also Read:
- How to Dry Shoes Overnight
- What to Eat the Night Before a Long Run
- Why Are Running Shorts So Short
- How Much Jump Rope Is Equivalent to Running a Mile
- Are Nike Air Max Good for Running
- How Many Miles 15K
- Brooks vs Asics Running Shoes
- Best Weighted Vests for Running
References:
- Ferro-Sánchez A, et al. An Analysis of Running Impact on Different Surfaces for Injury Prevention. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Jul 20;20(14):6405. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/14/6405
- Drum SN, et al. Effects of Trail Running versus Road Running-Effects on Neuromuscular and Endurance Performance-A Two Arm Randomized Controlled Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Mar 3;20(5):4501 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10002259/
- Olchowik, et al. The human balance system and gender. Acta of bioengineering and biomechanics / Wrocław University of Technology. 17. 69-74. 10.5277/ABB-00002-2014-05.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281832731_The_human_balance_system_and_gender
- Hoka Shoe Technology https://www.hoka.com/en/us/hoka-technology.html
- Asics Shoe Technology https://www.asics.com/au/en-au/mk/asics-technology
- Brooks Shoe Technology https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/meet-brooks/running-shoe-technology/
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