While the lifestyle market is still under criticism for its lack of innovation, the same can’t be said for the running shoe market. The past two years have seen huge developments in making running shoes more lightweight than ever (hello adios Pro Evo 1!), as well as more experimental with midsole foams and various shaped carbon plates. Over that time, more brands have entered the super shoe race, with 2024 witnessing a number of record-breaking races as well as world-stage events like the Paris Games. Such acts are hard to follow, and with brands determining their development cycles in line with key events, it's likely we won't see anything revolutionary in 2025. With that said, there's always a chance we could spot a few new prototypes hit the ground. But running isn't just for the elite, and this year is shaping up to offer a ton of mass-market options too, with a number of mid-pack marathon shoes dropping alongside a new wave of super trainers to enhance non-race day action. Here are the running shoes we’re looking forward to testing out in 2025.
Nike Vomero 18
The Swoosh are keeping things simple as they refocus on sport in 2025 and have split their key running franchises into three categories. Their Vomero line has always focused on comfort and cushioning, and they’re set to dial that up even further with the introduction of the Nike Vomero 18 in February. This iteration features its highest stack yet, coming in at a chunky 46mm.
The Vomero has never really been pitched as a race shoe, and this one’s stacked build does put it over the World Athletics’ height limit. However, if you’re a keen runner who just wants to increase their mileage or you need something plush for recovery runs, it’ll tick the right boxes. As well as nicely balanced foam stacks (ZoomX throughout the length and ReactX in the heel and forefoot), it features an enhanced rocker shape for better propulsion. It’s not going to break any records, but it could be a solid daily beater for the max cushion crew.
Adios Pro 4 and Pro Evo SL
adidas introduced their Adios Pro 4 and Pro Evo SL towards the tail-end of 2024, but the wider releases will take place in January and February respectively. Neither is as tech-packed as the record-breaking Adios Pro Evo 1; however, the Adios Pro 4 has been designed as a race-day model and features a new Lightlock upper and a more hardwearing outsole than the Pro Evo 1. Being honest, the mass market model is more the focus out of the two new releases, as the Pro Evo SL features Lightstrike foam, a low-weight build and an ultra-breathable upper for a budget price, making it a potential disruptor towards legacy franchises like Nike’s Pegasus line.
The adios Pro 4 is due to land on January 2, with the Pro Evo SL touching down at the start of February.
ASICS Novablast 5
There’s a bit of a pattern here with some stacked-up runners on the list! ASICS’ latest model, the Novablast 5, continues the theme and comes in just over the legal limit with a 41.5mm stack height. That’s actually unchanged from its predecessor, but it does feature a new FF Blast midsole, which was introduced to make the ride lighter and give the pair more bounce. ASICS have also improved the upper (another big trend going into 2025) and have gone back to the jacquard weave seen on the fan-fave Novablast 3.
The ASICS Novablast 5 actually dropped in December 2024, so if you’re looking for a versatile daily runner that can handle a wide range of runs, you can actually pick up a pair right now.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
The original Saucony Endorphin Elite was a big hit with the race day crowd, as it delivered a snappy sensation with plenty of rebound. And while following up a fan-fave model is a tricky job, it's essential to keep pushing innovation forward, and Saucony did just that when they released a very small quantity of the Endorphin Elite 2 ahead of the Paris Olympics.
Early reviews of the Endorphin Elite 2 peg it as equally loved and hated. The new model features a lot of changes from its predecessor, as its usual PEBA foam has been replaced with much softer option called Incredirun, Saucony’s next gen of super foam cushioning. Though the brand haven’t revealed the specific makeup, it feels very different to the original version. It’s soft and squishy – like running on a marshmallow – and while that is soft, it does make it more unstable. A wider release is planned for March 2025.
PUMA Fast RB
PUMA’s rule-breaking super trainer made headlines as it released in small quantities in 2024, but the controversial creation returns this January and this time it has laces. In case you’re not up to speed with this one, PUMA designed the shoe to push the limits of running, giving it a hefty boost with a ginormous 58mm stack height and a heel that defies gravity – literally not touching the ground. It also comes packed with three carbon fibre plates for an ultra-springy feel, which works in tandem with the unique shape to propel you forwards. On its release, the laceless upper caused some concern with heel slippage, but 2025's laced version offers a more adjustable fit. It’s still not for every runner, but if you’re into your tech, it’s definitely a fun shoe to experiment with!
On Cloudboom Max
On made a splash with the introduction of Lightspray and subsequent Cloudboom Strike LS in 2024, but they have more tech coming this year too. One of their most versatile upcoming styles is the On Cloudboom Max, a race day shoe that’s designed for the mid-pack marathoner. Given that the shoe isn’t available until August, you’re gonna have to wait a little longer for the full breakdown on this one, but what we do know is that they feature a Pebax foam midsole and a glass fibre-infused Speedboard, which is more flexible than a typical carbon fibre one.
Nike Pegasus Premium
Finally, long-time fans of the Peg series will be pleased to know that the range is getting an upgrade in 2025. The model was revealed back at Nike’s ‘On Air’ event in Paris last year, gaining interest from runners and lifestyle Swoosh fans alike.
Though the Pegasus 41 was treated to a ReactX foam midsole, the Pegasus Premium also has a full-length Air Zoom unit and ZoomX midsole for improved energy return, making it the most responsive, cushioned member of the Peg family yet. The model has been designed as a daily trainer and has a 45mm stack height, with a 10mm drop. It also features an all-new upper – another trend for 2025 – with engineered mesh and circular patterned knit for better breathability. The Nike Pegasus Premium is set to hit shelves in the Northern Hemisphere's Spring this year.
Nike Vaporfly 4
Those powered by a need for speed will be pleased to know there's a new variation of the Vaporfly arriving in 2025: the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 4. Building on Nike's rule-breaking (yet controversial) running series, the Vaporfly 4 is currently rumoured to weigh 10 grams lighter than its predecessor, yet build specifics are still TBC by the Swoosh. The model is currently rumoured to release in April, so keep your eyes on the ground as the major marathon season gets underway!
Wondering how these stack up to last year's releases? Here's a rundown of the best running tech from 2024.