This season, we put 28 new or recently launched shoes through our rigorous testing process. These seven floated to the top of our lab data charts for weight as the lightest shoes in the bunch. Our wear-testers raved about how effortless the miles felt in these picks, particularly for shorter-distance runs, and they loved the sensation of not being weighed down. We’re pretty sure you』ll love that, too.
Matt Rainey
1
Hoka One One Cavu ($110)
At just 7.7 oz (M) and 6.5 oz (W), the Cavu is the lightest shoe here, making it a good pick for tempo runs or short distance races. If you know Hoka, you know its shoes are famous for their airy feel and soft cushioning. The thick layer of foam makes this model test slightly stiff or 「clunky,」 according to some testers, but most were pleased with how light and comfy it felt—one tester even forgot she had shoes on!
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
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Matt Rainey
2
On Cloud X ($140)
The Cloud X weighs in at 7.8 oz (M) and 6.5 oz (W) and is the second lightest shoe we tested. Slip it on and it feels fast and agile, ready to race or take on some dynamic cross-training at the gym. That said, there’s very little cushioning in this shoe (it scored 5 out of 100 for cushioning). So if you like a plush underfoot feel, pass on this one.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
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Matt Rainey
3
Altra Duo ($130)
If you go no drop, then this is your pick. Our lab tests found the Duo to have the softest and thickest forefoot in this guide, which comes as no surprise given Altra’s founding principle of 「zero drop,」 or keeping the heights of the heel and forefoot as close to level as possible. The level midsole, paired with a 「natural」 toe box, made wearing these light shoes [8.6 oz (M), 7 oz (W)] just feel easy—easy like a Sunday morning run.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
Buy Men’sBuy Women’s
Matt Rainey
4
Newton Motion ($175)
If you want a lightweight shoe that also provides stability, consider the Motion. But with stability comes stiffness, as this was the least flexible shoe we tested, thanks to a harder foam in the midsole. All that said, wear testers appreciated the light feel [9.1 oz (M), 7.8 oz (W)] and the fit.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
Buy Men’sBuy Women’s
Matt Rainey
5
Skechers GOrun Forza 3 ($115)
When you need a light shoe that can go the distance, the GOrun Forza 3 is built tough. The full-length rubber outsole, which can often weigh down a shoe, handles max mileage (think: half marathon or beyond) like a pro, while the new foam midsole in this latest version shaved off an ounce of weight [9.3 oz (M), 7.4 oz (W)] . Our wear testers also noted its performance on a variety of terrains.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
Buy Men’sBuy Women’s
Matt Rainey
6
New Balance 890 V6 ($120) - BEST UPDATE
This shoe strikes the right balance between just enough cushioning while still feeling light [9.2 oz (M), 7.6 oz (W)] and energizing. It made one tester’s run feel 「effortless.」 That snappy feel comes from a new, thin layer of plastic in the forefoot, which also contributed to slightly stiffer results in the lab test. The faster you run, the zippier it will feel, so it’s a perfect pick for speedsters who like to tear up the road and track.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
Buy Men’sBuy Women’s
Matt Rainey
7
Asics Dynaflyte 2 ($130)
This updated version tested slightly lighter [9.3 oz (M), 7.5 oz (W)] but with the same amount of cushioning and stability as the OG Dynaflyte, making fans of the first very happy. Plus, the new mesh upper contributed to better fit and gives the shoe’s branding a discreet look that testers said looked 「sleek,」 and 「really cool.」 Long-time fans of Asics will feel right at home in this one.
Read the fullmen’s reviewandwomen’s review.
Buy Men’sBuy Women’s
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