9 Best Running Shoes for Older Men 2025

The Brooks Glycerin Max delivers a plush, cloud-like experience that feels engineered for aging joints and long-haul comfort. With its high-stack nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned Cushion midsole and GlideRoll Rocker, this shoe transforms every step into a smooth, propulsive motion—ideal for older men prioritizing joint protection and effortless mobility. The dual-cell foam technology—softer in the heel, firmer in the forefoot—creates a dynamic ride that absorbs impact without sacrificing responsiveness, making it a standout in the max-cushion category.

In real-world testing, the Glycerin Max excels on pavement and treadmills, providing exceptional shock absorption during walks, jogs, or standing routines. Its Linear Last construction adds interior volume, comfortably accommodating wider feet and orthotics without pinching—a major win for those with age-related foot changes. The rocker geometry encourages a natural gait cycle, reducing strain on knees and hips, though the weight (11.3 oz) may feel cumbersome during faster runs. While the upper is breathable, it doesn’t excel in hot climates, where airflow lags behind more mesh-dominant designs.

Compared to the Ghost Max 3, the Glycerin Max pushes cushioning to the extreme, trading a bit of ground feel for maximum protection—perfect for those with arthritis or plantar fasciitis. It’s less nimble than the Adrenaline GTS 24 but offers superior softness for low-impact daily use. Ideal for older runners and walkers seeking a protective, stable platform, this shoe redefines comfort without compromising support. For those wanting the softest ride in the Brooks lineup, the Glycerin Max offers more plushness than the Ghost 16 at a similar sustainability and tech level.

The New Balance Arishi V4 strikes a rare balance between style and substance, making it a top pick for older men who want a running shoe that transitions seamlessly from sidewalk jogs to casual outings. Its Fresh Foam midsole delivers a soft yet responsive ride, while the trail-inspired webbing overlays add durability without bulk. The no-sew upper creates a sleek, irritation-free fit, and the lightweight build (9.2 oz) makes it feel nimble underfoot—perfect for those who value agility over max cushioning.

During daily wear tests, the Arishi V4 proved reliable for short runs, errands, and light gym sessions. The precision-engineered foam offers moderate impact protection, though it bottoms out on longer walks or hard pavement over 3 miles. The mesh upper breathes well, but lacks structured support for overpronators or wider feet. It’s a do-it-all shoe for low-mileage users, but not ideal for those needing stability or maximum shock absorption. On wet surfaces, the outsole grip is adequate but unremarkable.

Against the Fresh Foam 520 V9, the Arishi V4 feels more modern and stylish, with better upper refinement and a more premium look. While both share the same foam core, the Arishi trades some cushioning for sleek aesthetics and urban versatility. It’s best for style-conscious older men who prioritize a clean look and lightweight comfort over medical-grade support. For everyday wear with light activity, it offers more flair than the Ghost 16 but less protective cushioning than the Glycerin Max.

The Brooks Ghost 16 is the goldilocks of running shoes—not too soft, not too firm—delivering a perfectly balanced ride ideal for older runners seeking consistency and comfort without overkill. Its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam provides a lightweight, springy cushion that handles daily runs and walks with ease, while the Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions that reduce joint strain. The engineered air mesh upper strikes a smart balance between stretch and structure, hugging the foot without pressure points.

In real-world use, the Ghost 16 shines on mixed surfaces—pavement, sidewalks, and treadmills—offering reliable cushioning for 3–5 mile runs. The 12mm drop promotes a natural stride, and the RoadTack rubber outsole delivers durable grip with minimal weight penalty. However, the cushioning, while soft, isn’t as plush as the Glycerin Max, making it less ideal for those with severe joint sensitivities. The breathable upper performs well in moderate climates but can feel warm in sustained heat.

Compared to the Ghost Max 3, the Ghost 16 is lighter and more responsive, but lacks the high-stack cushioning and wide base stability that benefit older users with balance concerns. It’s a better fit than the Adrenaline GTS 24 for neutral runners who don’t need overpronation support. Ideal for active older men wanting a dependable, do-it-all shoe, the Ghost 16 offers more balanced performance than the Arishi V4 and better breathability than the Glycerin Max, all with Brooks’ trusted durability.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is a comfort powerhouse, engineered to make every step feel effortless—especially for older men dealing with foot fatigue or joint discomfort. Its high-stack DNA Loft v3 foam and GlideRoll Rocker work in harmony to deliver ultra-smooth transitions, while the wide base and raised sidewalls provide inherent stability without orthotic reliance. The Linear Last construction adds interior space, making it one of the most accommodating shoes for swollen feet or custom insoles.

Field testing confirms its excellence in long walks, recovery jogs, and standing routines, where its pressure-reducing cushioning truly shines. The low 6mm offset promotes a more natural foot strike, reducing Achilles strain—a common issue for aging runners. The high-fidelity textile upper feels soft and durable, though it’s not as breathable as fully mesh alternatives. While the shoe handles wet pavement well, its weight (10.8 oz) makes it less ideal for speed work or trail use.

Next to the Glycerin Max, the Ghost Max 3 offers nearly the same plush ride and rocker geometry, but with a slightly firmer, more stable platform. It’s more protective than the Ghost 16 and better for all-day wear than the Adrenaline GTS 24. Perfect for older walkers and runners prioritizing smooth gait cycles and foot comfort, it delivers more stability than the Ghost 16 and better transition tech than the GT-2000 13, all with a forgiving fit.

For older men with overpronation or flat feet, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a supportive sanctuary, combining plush cushioning with GuidedRails holistic support to keep joints aligned mile after mile. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole delivers soft landings, while the redesigned outsole enhances smooth transitions without sacrificing structure. This shoe doesn’t just cushion—it actively stabilizes, reducing strain on knees and hips during long walks or runs.

In daily testing, the GTS 24 proved invaluable for overpronators, with the GuidedRails system limiting excessive inward roll without feeling restrictive. The engineered air mesh upper adapts well to wider feet, and the 12mm drop supports a natural stride. However, the support frame adds stiffness, making it less flexible than the Ghost 16. On uneven surfaces, it feels secure, but the lack of rocker geometry means transitions aren’t as fluid as in the Ghost Max 3.

Compared to the GT-2000 13, the Adrenaline GTS 24 offers superior cushioning and a more modern fit, though both target stability. It’s heavier than the Ghost 16 but provides critical support for those with gait issues. Ideal for older runners needing medial control, it delivers more dynamic support than the Ghost 16 and better cushioning than the ASICS GT-2000 13, making it a top-tier choice for long-term joint health.

The New Balance 520 V9 is a quiet achiever—an unassuming daily trainer that delivers reliable performance at a fraction of premium shoe prices. Its Fresh Foam midsole offers a surprisingly soft, consistent ride, while the engineered mesh upper ensures breathability and a secure fit. At just 8.8 oz, it’s one of the lightest options here, making it ideal for older men who want a no-fuss, low-effort shoe for short runs, walks, or standing.

Real-world use reveals it’s best suited for light to moderate activity—think 1–3 mile runs or daily errands. The 10mm drop supports a natural stride, but the minimal midsole stack means less shock absorption on hard surfaces. It lacks the support features of the Adrenaline GTS 24 or the plushness of Brooks’ max-cushion models. On wet pavement, the outsole grip is basic, requiring cautious steps. Still, for its price, it outperforms expectations in comfort and durability.

Against the Arishi V4, the 520 V9 trades style for pure functionality and value. It’s less fashionable but more accessible for budget-focused buyers. Best for older men on a tight budget who still want a real running shoe, not a sneaker hybrid. It doesn’t match the Ghost 16 in cushioning or the Glycerin Max in protection, but it offers more genuine running capability than the Under Armour Assert 10 at a similar cost.

The ASICS Gel-Venture 10 is a trail-ready workhorse that brings rugged durability and impact-absorbing GEL tech to older runners who venture beyond paved paths. Its rearfoot GEL unit delivers notable shock reduction, softening landings on gravel, dirt, or uneven sidewalks—perfect for those with joint sensitivities. The trail-specific outsole bites into loose terrain with confidence, while the mesh upper keeps feet ventilated during moderate activity.

In testing, the Gel-Venture 10 proved reliable for light trail walks, park jogs, or urban commutes on mixed surfaces. The AMPLIFOAM midsole adds cushioning, though it feels firmer than Brooks’ nitrogen-infused foams. The fit runs slightly narrow, which may challenge wider feet, but the lacing system allows for adjustment. It’s not built for speed, but its grip and protection make it a smart pick for unpredictable terrain.

Compared to the GT-2000 13, it offers less stability but more trail versatility and better outsole traction. It lacks the support of the Adrenaline GTS 24 but excels where pavement ends. Ideal for older men who enjoy nature walks or live in hilly areas, it delivers more off-road capability than the Ghost 16 and better impact protection than the New Balance 520 V9, all with ASICS’ trusted durability.

The ASICS GT-2000 13 is a long-distance guardian, built for older runners who log serious miles and need reliable stability and cushioning without bulk. Its 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM actively corrects overpronation, while the Rearfoot PureGEL delivers lightweight, responsive impact protection that stays comfortable over 5+ miles. The recycled-content upper adds eco-credibility without sacrificing durability, and the structured mesh ensures a secure, breathable fit.

Field tested on road runs and long walks, the GT-2000 13 shines in consistency and joint protection. The guidance groove geometry promotes a smooth roll-through, though transitions aren’t as fluid as the Ghost Max 3’s rocker. The midsole is firm by design, prioritizing support over plushness—great for stability, less so for those wanting a cloud-like feel. It’s heavier than the Ghost 16 but lighter than the Glycerin Max.

Next to the Adrenaline GTS 24, the GT-2000 13 offers similar stability tech but with a firmer, more structured ride and more eco-conscious materials. It’s less cushioned than the Brooks option but more durable for high-mileage use. Best for older runners needing long-term support, it provides more guidance than the Ghost 16 and better sustainability than the Gel-Venture 10, making it a standout for endurance and alignment.

The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a no-frills speedster, built for older men who want a light, breathable shoe for quick walks or gym sessions without breaking the bank. Its Charged Cushioning midsole offers a snappy, responsive feel, while the lightweight mesh upper keeps feet cool during indoor workouts or short outdoor jaunts. At just 9.1 oz, it’s one of the most agile budget options, making it easy to slip on for daily movement.

In real use, it performs well for light activity under 3 miles, offering decent impact protection thanks to the compression-molded EVA foam. The solid rubber outsole holds up to gym floors and pavement, though it lacks deep lugs for wet or uneven terrain. The 10mm drop supports a natural stride, but the minimal midsole stack means less joint protection than max-cushion models. It’s not designed for overpronation or long-term support needs.

Compared to the New Balance 520 V9, the Assert 10 is slightly cheaper and more breathable, but offers less cushioning and a less refined upper. It lacks the tech of the Ghost 16 or the support of the GT-2000 13. Ideal for budget-focused, low-mileage users, it delivers more responsiveness than the 520 V9 but less comfort than any Brooks model—perfect as a backup or starter shoe.