24 of the best new running shoes tested by our editors

Runners

Absorb most of the impact so your body doesn't have to. Best for forward motion.

Clockwise from top left:

Extreme comfort: A runner's cult fave for its slipper fit, this shoe has a roomy mesh front to keep your toes happy and a sturdier heel for better balance. Wave Evo Curoris, $130, Mizuno.

Breathe easy: The cooling concept behind these soles channels air to where you need it, when you need it, to keep feet cushy from the first step to the last. Bonus: They make you feel taller! DMX Sky Reebok, $140, Reebok.

Big bounce: This sleek shoe's midsole uses new souped-up technology to literally spring you forward, so you can run longer and faster on less energy. Oh, and did we mention they look really good too? Energy Boost, $150, Adidas.

Made-to-measure: Big pavement-pounding props to the customized weave technology that is "steam-fitted" in the store to the shape of your foot (no joke!), so the shoe tightens and relaxes with your body's natural movements. Flyknit Lunar 1+, $195, Nike.

Cross-trainers

Sturdy but still flexible. Best for boot camps and high-energy fitness classes.

Divine design: The soft yet snug mesh tongue on these trainers is made to protect from too-tight laces and stuffy feet. Now you can focus on what really counts: your workout. Free TR 3 5.0, $125, Nike.

Strong moves: This shoe's minimal heel-to-forefoot drop helps protect your bod's natural alignment, and the durable outsole has great traction for all those unconventional CrossFit workouts. Minimus X20V3, $120, New Balance.

Multi-tasker: Here's the best of a runner and a trainer: The ingenious design is highly flexible for lateral movements but stable enough for longer runs. Puma Bioweb Elite, $130, Foot Locker.

Barely there: One of the comfiest pairs on the market, these airy, extra-light trainers will have you loving the barefoot-esque experience (even though your swore you'd never). Merrell Crush Glove shoes, $130, MEC.

Trail

Solid sole and stiffer structure, yet surprisingly light. Best for uneven terrain.

Tight grip: Take note, off-roaders: We're loving the multi-directional lug pattern on the sole of these high-tech runners. It makes them slip-proof on shaky ground. Puregrit 2, $140, Brooks. 

Transitional pair: These minimalist kicks are great for the run-anywhere types. The strong yet lightweight outsole is made to manage both city streets and the toughest trails. Saucony Kinvara Trail running shoes, $125, MEC.

Hike on: Great on rugged terrains, these trail-blazing kicks weigh next to nothing, so you can pack them up easily for a camping trip or day hike. You'll love them so much, you won't want to take them off. A86 TR, $100, Keen Footwear.

Support system: These well-ventilated sneaks are made for summer running. Bonus: Extra cushioning in the heels protects your stride against blisters, roots and rocks. Salomon XR Crossmax 2 Neutral Trail running shoes, $129, MEC.

Walking

Cushioned and comfy, but not made for running. Best for a casual pace.

Rain or shine: No matter where you're heading this summer, these luxe leather kicks are good to go. The waterproof sole and metallic details will keep you dry in style. Contact, $150, Geox.

Chilled out: Keep your cool in these breathable, climate-controlled sneaks. We're suckers for the '70s-inspired vintage style and soft suede detailing. Jogga, $145, Ecco Canada.

Stand-up support: Cushy, lightweight and completely low profile, these sweet shoes strike a perfect balance. They're a great choice for a day of running errands. Scarpa Caipirinha, $119, MEC.

Old-school vibe: The bright design of this retro-looking pair is an ode to the '90s windbreakers that we all used to rock (and love). And they're just so comfortable! 574 Windbreaker, $100, New Balance.

Chic sneaks

Trendy, not techy. Best for sporting up your look, no matter what you're wearing.

Street-worthy: Somewhere between boat shoe and skate shoe, these kicks have that laid-back appeal down pat. More importantly, we're obsessed with the range of fun colours. Superga 2750, $70, Holt Renfrew.

Flower power: Trade in your ballet flats for this whimsical twist on the classic Converse. They're cute with summer shorts or a slim pair of ankle-grazing jeans. Chuck Taylor All-Star floral print, $65, Converse.

Total stud: There's a reason celebs are loving this style right now: These fashion-forward sneaks add the right amount of edge to just about any outfit. Michael Michael Kors, $268, Michael Kors. 

Laced up: Score points on and off the court with this pretty and feminine take on the traditional high-top. Talk about a slam dunk! Atlas crochet sneaker, $130, Free People.

Sport

Super-specialized to help you up your game. Best for the hard-core athletes in training. 

Pro choice: This unique shoe was designed by triathletes for triathletes. The smart no-tie laces work with the anatomy of your feet so you can slip them on and off in no time. Ultra TT 6.0, $140, Zoot Sports.

Sweet spin: With quick-drying construction and ample underfoot cushioning, these kicks were designed to give you the ultimate pedal-power payoff. Pearl Isumi X-Alp Seek cycling shoe, $125, MEC.

Total ace: Feel supported from your serve to your forehand. These ultra-light tennis shoes score high on the cushioning and comfort factors. Bigshot Light, $85, K-Swiss.

Hole-in-one: Walk all 18 holes in these light-as-a-cloud six-spike cleats. The design is enough to get you out on the green and the top-notch traction could be a game changer. Adizero, $140, Adidas.

Put these shoes to use when you do this body-shredding workout from Jillian Michaels.