RUNNEA testers' top 10 favorite running shoes in the first 6 months of 2024

In the first six months of 2024, our Runnea testers have tested and selected their favorite running shoes. Each choice reflects the needs and preferences of runners, highlighting models that combine comfort, performance and style. Below, we present our experts' favorite shoes, accompanied by their comments and reasons for choosing these models.

Adidas Supernova Rise: the choice of Gorka Cabañas

Gorka Cabañas has chosen the Adidas Supernova Rise as his favorite shoes. This model is probably one of the great rivals of the Nike Pegasus 41 and stands out for its advanced cushioning and secure fit, ideal features for long runs and intense workouts.

Key features:

• New Dreamtrike+ midsole foam. Provides an excellent combination of comfort and reactivity.
• Mesh upper: Offers great breathability and support.
• Introduces a support rod system (Support Rods) that provides non-intrusive stability to the model.

"What I like most about Supernova Rise is their ability to maintain comfort for miles. The combination of their Dreamstrike+ foam and Support Rods in the midsole offers a soft and responsive experience that I have loved for my daily runs."

Brooks Ghost 16: Lionel Nattes' favorite

Lionel Nattes has opted for the Brooks Ghost 16, a shoe he loves for its perfect balance of cushioning and support. A perfect model for runners like him who are looking for versatility for the different types of training he does.

Main features:

• DNA Loft v3 cushioning: provides softness enhancing its responsiveness.
• Air Mesh upper: Adapts to the foot for a secure fit.
• 12 mmDrop: Facilitates a secure landing with the heel area.

"The Ghost 16 have surprised me with their versatility. They are perfect for both long runs and quick workouts. Also, the fit is impeccable, like a glove."

New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v4: Jorge García Betanzos' favorite.

Jorge García Betanzos selected the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v4 for its lightness and speed. A running shoe that has no carbon plate but that does not prevent it from being really fast without sacrificing comfort.

Main features:

• FuelCell foam in its midsole: soft, comfortable, light and agile footstrike.
• Upper Fantomfit: Offers breathability and flexibility in key areas.
• Only 216 gr: a very light shoe for your quality training or competitions up to half marathon.

"The lightweight and propulsive feel of the Fuelcell Rebel v4 is incredible. They have become my favorite shoes for days when I'm doing sets or tempo changes."

Under Armour Infinite Elite: Amaia Cabezudo's bet.

Amaia Cabezudo has opted for the Under Armour Infinite Elite. These shoes have a maximalist midsole with very good responsiveness, making them perfect for daily workouts and long runs at almost any pace.

Key features:

• HOVR cushioning: provides optimal energy return and a firm running feel.
• Mesh upper with structural support: Ensures exceptional breathability and fit.
• Comfort: A very comfortableshoe that is perfect for all types of runs at easy to medium paces.

"What I liked most about the Under Armour Infinite Elite is their comfort, support and stability. They are perfect for daily workouts and long runs, and their durability has pleasantly surprised me."

Asics Novablast 4: Gorka Sedano's choice.

Gorka Sedano has chosen the Asics Novablast 4 as his favorite option of this 2024. He liked its ample cushioning but at the same time its responsiveness. An ideal shoe for runners who want it all: performance and comfort in their workouts.

Key features:

• FF Blast+ cushioning: Provides a very good soft and bouncy feel.
• Engineered mesh upper: Offers breathability and a secure fit.
• AHAR+ Outsole: Ensures durability and traction on a variety of surfaces.

"The Novablast 4 have won me over with their cushioning and responsiveness. Every stride feels energized, and the comfort is unmatched, perfect for my daily workouts."

Nike Invincible 3: Carlos Dominguez's favorite.

Carlos Domínguez has opted for the Nike Invincible 3. He was looking for a shoe with ample cushioning, but at the same time one that offers him comfort and security while running. These shoes are perfect for long distances where comfort and support are key.

Key Features:

• ZoomX cushioning: Provides a soft feel and good energy return.
• Flyknit upper: Offers good lightweight support and its fabric is very breathable.
• Outsole: Ensures good traction and durability on asphalt and dirt roads.

"The Invincible 3 have won me over with their softness. They are perfect for long distances, where comfort is key. Every run with them feels like running on a cloud."

New Balance Fresh FoamX Hierro v8: Raul Lozano's choice.

Raul Lozano is the captain of the RUNNEA trail team and has opted for the New Balance Fresh FoamX Hierro v8. These shoes stand out for their versatility, robustness and traction, ideal for terrain to have a single trail shoe for everything.

Key features:

• Fresh FoamX cushioning: Provides a soft, comfortable ride.
• Toe Protect upper: Adds durability and protection on rough terrain.
• VibramMegaGrip Outsole: Offers superior traction on wet and dry surfaces.

"The New Balance Fresh FoamX Hierro v8 are my favorite shoe for long runs and training in my ultras preparation. They offer excellent protection and grip on any terrain, giving me the confidence to tackle any distance in the mountains."

Joma TR-6000: Imanol Urrestizala's bet

Imanol Urrestizala, also a member of the RUNNEA trail team, has opted for the Joma TR-6000. He is convinced by their durability and performance in a wide variety of terrains. He will be using them to run the UTMB Andorra.

Main characteristics:

• Phylon cushioning: Provides a comfortable and reactive tread.
• Mesh upper with reinforcements: Ensures breathability and protection.
• Rubber outsole with multidirectional lugs: Offers traction and stability in complex terrain.

"The Joma TR-6000 have surprised me above all for their traction and stability on complicated trails. They are an excellent choice for trailrunners looking for durability and performance."

Reebok Floatzig 1: Eider Fernandez's favorite

Eider Fernandez has opted for the Reebok Floatzig 1, a perfect combination of design and comfort. These shoes stand out for their modern style and comfort, ideal for those looking for performance without sacrificing aesthetics.

Key features:

• Floatride Energy cushioning: provides a lightweight, responsive stride.
• Mesh upper with modern design: Combines breathability and style.
• Durable rubber outsole: Ensures traction and durability.

"I had tried the Reebok brand for gym but never for running. The Floatzig 1 are not only aesthetically appealing, but also offer incredible comfort. If you're looking for style and performance for your workouts and everyday, you're going to love them."

Joma R5000: Jokin Angulo's choice.

Jokin Angulo selected the Joma R5000 as his favorite shoes for 2024. He was looking for a shoe with a carbon plate but that would offer him some comfort and cushioning for fast workouts.

Key features:

• Cushioning along with carbon plate: Provides a very fast and efficient stride.
• Lightweight mesh upper: Offers great breathability and a comfortable fit.
• Durable rubber outsole: Ensures traction and durability on asphalt.

"I had never run with Joma before and the truth is that the R5000 have impressed me with their lightness and responsiveness. They are perfect to compete in long distances because in addition to being fast they are quite comfortable for a shoe with a carbon plate."

These are our testers' favorite shoes for the first six months of the year. There are still 6 months left and we are going to see some very interesting releases. We will be showing you all of them in RUNNEA, so keep an eye on us.