RUNNERS TO WATCH

Shoes that will basically do all the work

Saucony Ride 16

The Ride 16 puts comfort first but still offers a healthy side order of lightweight zippiness. The Pwrrun foam midsole gives a soft stack of cushioning, while higher sidewalls than the average running shoe allow your foot to sit in snugly. There’s 35mm of cushioning underfoot and 27mm at the forefoot, so road miles will whizz away. Plus they’re vegan-friendly and made with recycled materials. £130 / saucony.com

Salomon Aero Glide

This new lightweight road-runner delivers maxed-out cushioning yet still provides great bounce and energy return. The result should be comfort even after hundreds of miles. The rocker geometry, known as R.camber, creates a quick transition with every step and keeps you moving forward. The upper is made with 32% recycled materials, and you get a padded tongue and collar. £150 / salomon.com

Asics Gel-nimbus 25

An independent test by the Biomechanics Lab in Australia rated the Asics Gel-nimbus 25 as the most comfortable running shoe of all. Underfoot, it’s the Puregel tech integrated into the midsole that promotes soft landings and gives enhanced shock absorption. The upper is also designed for comfort with a soft yet breathable and stretchy knit tongue and collar.

£175 / asics.com

Hoka Clifton 9

This freshly designed Hoka option weighs just 248g per shoe and has plush underfoot cushioning of 29-32mm at the heel and 24-27mm at the forefoot. A ‘meta-rocker’ has been added for a smooth ride, while the fabric upper is supportive and breathable. All in all, you have a running shoe here that will comfortably hit the pavement for many, many miles.

£130 / hoka.com