In this comprehensive guide, I embark on a global tour of footwear, exploring all the running shoe brands in the world from A to Z. The journey traverses continents and cultures, delving into the stories, technologies, and innovations that define each brand. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a casual jogger, or someone about to take their first run, this article serves as your ultimate directory. From the legendary giants of the shoe industry to niche brands that are crafting the future of running footwear, I cover them all.
So, lace up your current running shoes and prepare for a journey that will not only introduce you to the global landscape of running shoe brands but will also guide you toward finding that perfect pair to accompany you on your running adventures. Let’s start this alphabetical odyssey through the diverse and dynamic world of running.
A – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter A
Adidas
Adidas is a German multinational corporation that designs, develops, and manufactures shoes, clothing, and accessories. The company’s running shoes are known for their innovative technologies, such as Boost and Lightstrike, which offer exceptional cushioning and energy return. Adidas caters to runners of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Ultraboost, Adizero, and Boston.
Altra
Altra is an American footwear company known for its wide-toe box design, which promotes a natural running gait and reduces the risk of injury. The brand’s shoes are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and barefoot-like feel. Altra is popular among runners who want to improve their form and experience a more comfortable running experience. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Lone Peak, Escalante, and Superior.
Anta
ANTA is a Chinese sportswear brand founded in 1991. The company’s running shoes are known for their affordability and wide range of styles. ANTA offers shoes for all types of runners, from beginners to experienced athletes. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the KT7, Li-Ning Sonic Surge, and PEAK Taichi.
Asics
ASICS is a Japanese sportswear company known for its innovative technologies and commitment to biomechanics. The brand’s running shoes are designed to provide support and stability for different foot types, from neutral to overpronated. ASICS offers shoes for all types of runners, from beginners to elite athletes. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus, and Metaracer.
B – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter B
Brooks
Brooks is an American footwear company that has been making running shoes for over 100 years. The brand is known for its high-quality materials, comfortable designs, and focus on biomechanics. Brooks offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from neutral to overpronated. The brand is well-established in the running community and is popular among runners of all levels. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Ghost, Adrenaline GTS, and Glycerin.
C – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter C
Craft Sportswear
Craft Sportswear is a Swedish company that specializes in technical sportswear, including running shoes. The brand is known for its focus on comfort, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, making its products ideal for running in various conditions. Craft offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for tempo runs to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
D – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter D
Diadora
Diadora is an Italian footwear company with a long history of making high-quality athletic shoes. The brand is known for its innovative designs, focus on biomechanics, and commitment to performance. Diadora offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from beginners to elite athletes. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Mythos, N9000, and Falcon.
Dynafit
Dynafit is an Austrian footwear company known for its trail running shoes designed for technical terrain and extreme conditions. The brand’s shoes are lightweight, durable, and feature aggressive tread patterns for maximum grip and traction. Dynafit offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for day hikes to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions.
E – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter E
Evadict
Evadict is a French brand of trail running shoes owned by Decathlon. The brand is known for its focus on affordability and performance, offering a wide range of trail running shoes for a variety of terrain and conditions. Evadict shoes are known for their lightweight construction, durable materials, and aggressive tread patterns.
F – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter F
Fila
Fila is an Italian athletic apparel and footwear company known for its classic designs and popular lifestyle brand. The brand’s running shoes offer a blend of style and performance, making them a popular choice for runners of all levels. Fila offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of terrain, from road running to trail running. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Disruptor II, Cage, and Ray Tracer.
G – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter G
Gravity Defyer
Gravity Defyer is an American brand of running shoes that is known for its innovative shock absorption technology. The brand’s shoes feature a full-length midsole that is designed to reduce impact and promote a natural running gait. Gravity Defyer offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from neutral to overpronated. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the G-Defy, G-Force, and G-Speed.
H – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter H
Hoka One One
Hoka One One is a French brand known for its maximally cushioned running shoes. The brand’s shoes feature thick midsoles that are designed to reduce impact and promote a natural running gait. Hoka One One offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from neutral to overpronated. The brand’s popular running shoe models include the Bondi, Clifton, and Speedgoat.
I – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter I
Icebug
Icebug is a Swedish brand known for its specialized trail running shoes designed for winter conditions. The brand’s shoes feature unique rubber outsoles with 360-degree carbide studs that provide maximum grip and traction on snow, ice, and wet surfaces. Icebug offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual trail runs to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions.
ikunka
Ikunka is a Finnish brand known for its barefoot running shoes and minimalist designs. The brand’s shoes are designed to mimic the barefoot running experience, promoting natural foot movement and reducing the risk of injury. Ikunka offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from minimalist shoes for barefoot running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
Inov-8
Inov-8 is a British brand known for its innovative trail running shoes and ultralight designs. The brand’s shoes are lightweight, durable, and feature aggressive tread patterns for maximum grip and traction on various terrains. Inov-8 offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for day hikes to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions.
J – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter J
Joomra
Joomra is a Chinese brand known for its budget-friendly running shoes. The brand offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from beginners to experienced athletes. Joomra’s popular running shoe models include the Jogger, Runner, and Trail Runner.
K – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter K
Kalenji
Kalenji is a French brand known for its affordable and high-performance running shoes. The brand is part of Decathlon, a leading sporting goods retailer in Europe. Kalenji offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from beginners to experienced athletes. Kalenji’s popular running shoe models include the Run Active, Run Long, and Trail Max.
Karhu
Karhu is a Finnish brand known for its innovative running shoes and lightweight designs. The brand was founded in 1919 and has a rich history of producing high-quality running shoes. Karhu offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for tempo runs to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Karhu’s popular running shoe models include the Fusion, Sonic, and Speedgoat.
Kiprun
Kiprun is a French brand known for its high-performance running shoes specifically designed for trail running. The brand is part of Decathlon and offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for day hikes to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions. Kiprun’s popular running shoe models include the Ultralight, Trail Max, and Cross Country.
Kricely
Kricely is a relatively new American brand founded in 2019. The brand focuses on developing innovative and performance-driven running shoes that cater to the needs of serious runners. Kricely offers a limited range of running shoes, but each model is designed with specific performance features in mind.
L – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter L
La Sportiva
La Sportiva is an Italian mountaineering and trail running footwear company founded in 1928. The brand is known for its high-quality and innovative running shoes designed for technical terrain and extreme conditions. La Sportiva offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for day hikes to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions. La Sportiva’s popular running shoe models include the Bushido, Helios, and Kaptiva.
Li-Ning
Li-Ning is a Chinese sportswear company founded in 1990. The brand offers a wide range of footwear for various sports, including running. Li-Ning running shoes are known for their affordability, stylish designs, and performance-driven features. Li-Ning offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Li-Ning’s popular running shoe models include the Cloud, Sonic Speed, and Cloud Elite.
M – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter M
Merrell
Merrell is an American outdoor footwear company founded in 1985. The brand is known for its innovative and comfortable trail running shoes. Merrell offers a wide range of trail running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for day hikes to burly boots for mountaineering expeditions. Merrell’s popular running shoe models include the Moab, Trail Glove, and Bare Access.
Mizuno
Mizuno is a Japanese sportswear company founded in 1906. The brand is known for its innovative running shoes and commitment to biomechanics. Mizuno offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for tempo runs to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Mizuno’s popular running shoe models include the Wave Rider, Wave Horizon, and Wave Inspire.
N – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter N
New Balance
New Balance is an American footwear company founded in 1906. The brand is known for its wide range of running shoes, catering to a broad spectrum of runners, from casual runners to serious athletes. New Balance offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of terrain, from road running to trail running. New Balance’s popular running shoe models include the Fresh Foam 1080, FuelCell Rebel, and 860v12.
Nike
Nike is an American footwear company founded in 1964. The brand is known for its innovative running shoes and high-performance technology. Nike offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for tempo runs to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Nike’s popular running shoe models include the Pegasus, Vomero, and Free RN.
NNormal
NNormal is a relatively new German footwear company founded in 2019. The brand is known for its minimalist running shoes and focus on barefoot running technology. NNormal offers a limited range of running shoes, but each model is designed for a specific purpose, from lightweight trainers for speedwork to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
O – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter O
Olympikus
Olympikus is a Brazilian footwear company founded in 1945. The brand is known for its high-quality running shoes and commitment to biomechanics. Olympikus offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Olympikus’ popular running shoe models include the Duofly, Ravenna, and Mach 4.
Oranginer
Oranginer is a relatively new brand in the running shoe industry. The brand is known for its minimalist running shoes and focus on barefoot running technology. Oranginer offers a limited range of running shoes, but each model is designed to mimic the barefoot running experience.
On Running
On Running is a Swiss footwear company founded in 2010. The brand is known for its revolutionary CloudTec cushioning system and focus on natural running gait. On Running offers a wide range of running shoes for different types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. On Running’s popular running shoe models include the Cloudstratus, Cloudflyer, and Cloudflow.
Onemix
Onemix is an upcoming Chinese running shoe company founded in 2023. The brand is known for its innovative cushioning technology and focus on comfort and stability. O-Resilio offers a limited range of running shoes, but each model is designed to provide a superior running experience.
P – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter P
PEAK
PEAK is a Chinese sportswear company founded in 1989. The brand is known for its high-quality running shoes and affordable prices. PEAK offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. PEAK’s popular running shoe models include the Sky Elite, Storm Racer, and Velocity.
Puma
Puma is a German sportswear company founded in 1948. The brand is known for its stylish and innovative running shoes. Puma offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Puma’s popular running shoe models include the Velocity Nitro, Deviate NITRO, and Speed 380X NITRO.
Pujcs
Pujcs is a Hungarian footwear company founded in 2012. The brand is known for its minimalist running shoes and focus on barefoot running technology. Pujcs offers a limited range of running shoes, but each model is designed for a specific purpose, from lightweight trainers for speedwork to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
R – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter R
Reebok
Reebok is a British-American footwear company founded in 1895. The brand is known for its classic and versatile running shoes. Reebok offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs. Reebok’s popular running shoe models include the Zig Kinetica, Floatride Energy 4, and Forever Floatride Energy 3.
Q – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter Q
Qauppe
Qauppe is a Chinese footwear company founded in 2019. The brand is known for its budget-friendly running shoes and focus on comfort and support. Qauppe offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
S – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter S
Salomon
Salomon is a French outdoor and adventure sports gear company founded in 1947. The brand is known for its high-performance mountain running shoes and focus on lightweight construction. Salomon offers a wide range of running shoes for trail running and off-road activities.
Saucony
Saucony is an American footwear company founded in 1898. The brand is known for its technologically advanced running shoes and commitment to biomechanics. Saucony offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for tempo runs to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
Skechers
Skechers is an American footwear company founded in 1992. The brand is known for its comfortable and stylish running shoes at affordable prices. Skechers offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
Scott
Scott is a Swiss sportswear company founded in 1958. The brand is known for its high-performance mountain and trail running shoes. Scott offers a wide range of running shoes for off-road activities, including trail running, cross-country running, and ultramarathons.
T – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter T
Topo Athletic
Topo Athletic is an American footwear company founded in 2010. The brand is known for its wide toe box, zero-drop design, and focus on natural running. Topo Athletic offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
U – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter U
Under Armour
Under Armour is an American sportswear company founded in 1996. The brand is known for its innovative technologies and commitment to performance. Under Armour offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
W – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter W
Whitin
Whitin is a Chinese footwear company founded in 2017. The brand is known for its affordable running shoes and focus on comfort and durability. Whitin offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
X – Running Shoe Brands Starting With The Letter X
XTEP
XTEP is a Chinese footwear company founded in 1999. The brand is known for its innovative running shoes and commitment to performance. XTEP offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
Xero Shoes
Xero Shoes is an American footwear company founded in 2009. The brand is known for its barefoot-inspired running shoes and focus on natural running movement. Xero Shoes offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from minimalist shoes for barefoot running to low-drop shoes for a more natural running experience.
Other (Numbers)
361°
361 Degrees is a Chinese footwear company founded in 2003. The brand is known for its innovative running shoes and commitment to biomechanics. 361 Degrees offers a wide range of running shoes for all types of runners, from lightweight trainers for casual running to maximally cushioned shoes for long-distance runs.
