Best Running Shoes for Midfoot Strikers: Top Picks for 2023

Running is a popular form of exercise that offers numerous benefits to the body and mind. However, to get the most out of your running routine, it's essential to have the right gear, starting with the shoes. Different running styles require different types of shoes, and midfoot striking is one of them. Midfoot strikers land on the middle of their foot rather than the heel or forefoot, and as such, they require running shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning.

In this article, we'll be discussing the best running shoes for midfoot strikers. We've researched and tested various shoes to identify the ones that offer the best combination of comfort, support, and durability. We understand that choosing the right running shoes can be overwhelming, especially for midfoot strikers, which is why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help make the process easier.

One critical thing to consider when choosing running shoes for midfoot strikers is the type of cushioning. Midfoot strikers require shoes with adequate midsole cushioning to absorb shock and reduce the risk of injury. We've also considered other factors such as the shoe's weight, flexibility, and overall design to ensure that we're recommending the best options for our readers.

After extensive research and testing, we've narrowed down our list to the top ten running shoes for midfoot strikers. In the following sections, we'll be discussing each shoe's features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision when choosing the best running shoes for your midfoot striking style.

Best Running Shoes for Midfoot Strikers

We know that finding the perfect running shoes can be a daunting task, especially if you're a midfoot striker. That's why we've put together a list of the best running shoes for midfoot strikers. Our team has researched and tested various brands and models to bring you the top picks that provide the right amount of support, cushioning, and flexibility for a comfortable and efficient run. Check out our recommendations below.

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 Running Shoes

If you're a midfoot striker looking for a comfortable and supportive running shoe, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 is a great option.

Pros

• The FF BLAST cushioning provides lightweight impact absorption and a responsive energy return.
• The Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, allowing for movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• The engineered mesh upper improves breathability, keeping your feet cool during long runs.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the laces are too short, requiring replacement with longer laces.
• The shoes may be too narrow for those with wider feet, taking a few weeks to break in.
• The supporting foam on the top of the soles may reduce in softness after a few months of use.

We've been testing the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 for a few weeks now and have found them to be comfortable and supportive for midfoot striking. The FF BLAST cushioning provides a noticeable bounce with each stride, and the Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System helps to absorb impact and reduce fatigue during longer runs.

The engineered mesh upper is breathable and keeps our feet cool, even during hot summer runs. However, we did find that the laces were a bit short and required replacement with longer laces for a more comfortable fit.

Overall, if you're looking for a comfortable and supportive running shoe for midfoot striking, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 is definitely worth considering.

New Balance Women's Dynasoft Pro Run V2 Shoe 7.5 White/Silver Metalic

If you're looking for a comfortable and responsive running shoe, the New Balance DynaSoft Pro Run v2 is a great choice.

Pros

• The extra-thick DynaSoft midsole provides full-length comfort and a fast feeling.
• The rubber outsole improves underfoot traction, making it easier to run on different surfaces.
• The engineered mesh upper increases breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during your runs.

Cons

• Some users may find the shoe to be a bit heavy, especially if they're used to lighter shoes.
• The sizing may be a bit off, so it's important to try them on before purchasing.
• The shoe may not provide enough support for runners with flat feet or those who overpronate.

We've been using the New Balance DynaSoft Pro Run v2 for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with its performance. The extra-thick DynaSoft midsole provides a comfortable and responsive feel, making it easy to run for longer distances. The rubber outsole also improves underfoot traction, which is especially helpful when running on wet or slippery surfaces.

One thing to note is that the shoe may be a bit heavy for some runners, especially if they're used to lighter shoes. However, we didn't find it to be a major issue and still felt comfortable during our runs. It's also important to try on the shoe before purchasing, as some users have reported that the sizing may be a bit off.

Overall, the New Balance DynaSoft Pro Run v2 is a great running shoe for midfoot strikers who want a comfortable and responsive experience. It may not provide enough support for runners with flat feet or those who overpronate, but for most runners, it's a solid choice.

ASICS Gel-Venture 8 MT Running Shoes

If you're a midfoot striker who loves outdoor adventures, the ASICS Gel-Venture 8 MT Running Shoes are a great choice for you.

Pros

• The mid-top design offers excellent ankle support.
• The GEL technology provides great shock absorption.
• The outsole lugs have been re-engineered to improve off-road traction.

Cons

• The shoes may run a bit small.
• The materials used may not be as durable as expected.
• The shoes may not be suitable for heavy use.

We recently tried out these shoes and were impressed by their mid-top design that offered excellent ankle support, making them a great choice for outdoor adventures. The GEL technology provided great shock absorption, which made our runs more comfortable and less strenuous on our feet. Additionally, the outsole lugs were re-engineered to improve off-road traction, which made us feel more confident while running on uneven terrain.

However, we did notice that the shoes may run a bit small, so it may be necessary to order a half size up. Additionally, the materials used may not be as durable as expected, so it may not be suitable for heavy use. Overall, we would recommend these shoes to midfoot strikers who are looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for their outdoor adventures.

SAGUARO Men's Women's Barefoot Minimalist Shoes Athletic Hiking Water Shoes for Aqua Swimming Trail Running Cross Training 9.5 Women/7.5 Men Sea Green

If you're looking for a budget-friendly shoe that is versatile and comfortable, the SAGUARO Men's Women's Barefoot Minimalist Shoes are a good option.

Pros

• The shoe is lightweight and easy to put on and take off.
• The rubber sole provides excellent traction and protection against sharp objects.
• The shoe is suitable for a variety of activities, making it a great all-around shoe.

Cons

• The shoe is not very durable and may need to be replaced frequently.
• The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to double-check the size chart before ordering.
• The shoe may not provide enough support for those with flat feet or other foot issues.

We recently tried out the SAGUARO Men's Women's Barefoot Minimalist Shoes and were pleasantly surprised by their comfort and versatility. The shoe is made from a stretch breathable ultra-light material that is both flexible and comfortable. The speed elastic draw-string ties system makes it easy to put on and take off, and the lump lug design rubber outsole provides superior grip and durability.

One of the standout features of the shoe is its strengthen toes protection structure design, which helps prevent sand, sharp rocks, broken glass, or other objects from entering the shoe and reduces injuries. We found this to be particularly useful when hiking or running on rough terrain.

The shoe is suitable for running, walking, gym, fitness, training, pilates, jogging, biking, camping, cruise, boating, surfing, sailing, long-haul flight, vacation, etc. making it a great all-around shoe for those who like to stay active. However, we did find that the shoe lacked the necessary support for those with flat feet or other foot issues.

Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly shoe that is versatile and comfortable, the SAGUARO Men's Women's Barefoot Minimalist Shoes are a good option. Just be aware that they may not be the most durable or supportive shoe on the market.

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Mid Top Running Shoes

We highly recommend the ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Mid Top Running Shoes for midfoot strikers who are looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for their runs.

Pros

• The mesh upper improves breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during your runs.
• The rearfoot GEL technology improves impact absorption, reducing the risk of injury and creating a softer feeling at footstrike.
• The AMPLIFOAM cushioning provides excellent cushioning for your feet, making your runs more comfortable.

Cons

• The shoe may run a bit small, so it's important to check the sizing chart before purchasing.
• The trail-specific outsole pattern may not be suitable for road running.
• Some users have reported that the shoe may not provide enough arch support for their feet.

The ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Mid Top Running Shoes feature a solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to conventional dyeing technology. This makes the shoe an eco-friendly option for those who are conscious about the environment.

The shoe's mid top design provides ankle support, which is beneficial for midfoot strikers who need extra stability during their runs. The rubber sole offers excellent grip on various surfaces, making it a versatile shoe for different terrains.

In conclusion, the ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Mid Top Running Shoes are a great choice for midfoot strikers who are looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for their runs. With its breathable mesh upper, rearfoot GEL technology, and AMPLIFOAM cushioning, you can enjoy a comfortable and injury-free run.

ASICS Men's GT-1000 11 Running Shoes

If you're a midfoot striker looking for a reliable running shoe, the ASICS Men's GT-1000 11 Running Shoes are worth considering.

Pros

• The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and a comfortable fit.
• The external heel counter improves stability and fit.
• The FLYTEFOAM cushioning provides lightweight impact absorption.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the shoes run small, so consider sizing up.
• The mesh upper may not be as durable as other materials.
• The shoes may not provide enough arch support for some users.

We recently tried out these shoes on our daily runs and were impressed with their overall performance. The engineered mesh upper allowed for breathability and a comfortable fit, while the external heel counter improved stability and fit. The FLYTEFOAM cushioning also provided lightweight impact absorption, which made for a smoother ride.

However, we did notice that the shoes run small, so consider sizing up. Additionally, the mesh upper may not be as durable as other materials, so keep that in mind if you tend to put a lot of miles on your shoes. Finally, some users may find that the shoes don't provide enough arch support, so if you have high arches, you may want to look for a different option.

Overall, we would recommend the ASICS Men's GT-1000 11 Running Shoes to midfoot strikers looking for a comfortable and reliable shoe.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best running shoes for midfoot strikers, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when shopping for running shoes:

Shoe Type

The first thing to consider is the type of shoe. Midfoot strikers typically benefit from shoes that have a lower heel-to-toe drop, as this helps promote a more natural gait. Look for shoes that are categorized as "neutral" or "minimalist" to find options that work well for midfoot strikers.

Cushioning

While midfoot strikers don't need as much cushioning as heel strikers, it's still important to choose shoes that provide some level of shock absorption. Look for shoes that have a moderate amount of cushioning to help protect your feet and joints during your runs.

Arch Support

Midfoot strikers typically have a neutral arch, so look for shoes that provide moderate arch support. Avoid shoes that have too much arch support, as this can interfere with your natural gait.

Flexibility

Another important feature to look for is flexibility. Midfoot strikers need shoes that allow for a natural range of motion in the foot. Look for shoes that have a flexible sole and a lightweight design to help promote a natural stride.

Fit

Finally, it's important to choose shoes that fit well. Look for shoes that have a snug fit without feeling too tight or constricting. Consider trying on shoes in-store or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy to ensure that you get the right fit.

By considering these key features, you can find the best running shoes for midfoot strikers that will help you perform your best on your runs.