Wow, I’ve had to think about my favorite road shoes of 2021 for a little while now. There were a lot of different options that I enjoyed. Many were shoes I’ve used in the past, but many were new!
In case you missed Favorite Running Gear of 2021 as well as Favorite Trail Shoes of 2021. Or even the Favorite Road Running Shoes of the First Half of 2021.
Ok, so what are my favorite road shoes of 2021?
I had to limit to 5 and a carbon plated version because I would probably just say: tHeY aRe aLl mY fAvOrIte. Keep in mind; I like a firmer road but also appreciates more cushion.
I’ve said for a while that I believe Reebok is one of the most underrated brands out there. They make high-quality shoes, but like Nike, Asics, New Balance, or Saucony, they also make low-quality and less expensive shoes. Many people run in the nonrunning shoes and write off Reebok. Their running shoes are some of the best I’ve found. I appreciate their blend of responsiveness and traction and cushion, and also, they aren’t $200).
The Reebok Forever floatride looks good but functions well and makes you feel good. How many times can I use the word good? First, the ride: there is plenty of cushion and durability. When you are done running in them, you can plant them in the ground *hence the grow*. The sustainability component is extremely important to me.
If you are looking for the most bang for your buck, the Atreyu Base Model is it. The shoes cost less than $100 are quality shoes. They are what running shoes used to be. Lightweight, cushioned, and straightforward. There are no extra frills (like a shoebox), so the cost is much lower. Plus the people who own Atreyu are friendly and fun!
This is my daily trainer favorite. I’ve been running in the 1080 for quite some time, and it’s consistent year after year. What I think sets the 1080v11 apart from other high cushioned trainers is the ability to run fast or easy. With the amount of cushion, it isn’t a tank, and it’s fairly easy to pick up the pace.
The Mach was revitalized this year. For the past three versions, it’s been “fine” but got lost in the Hoka mix. Hoka redid it, and it’s more responsive with a better fit. I wish they would just continue on with the Cavu, but that’s a story for another day.
Carbon Plated Shoe:
Needing its own category of favorite road shoes of 2021 comes the carbon plated Asics Metaspeed Sky. Before 2021, I don’t believe another carbon-plated shoe could compete with Nike. Yes, I said it, and I know other brands have made carbon-plated shoes.
Asics designed the first carbon-plated shoe that can compete with the Nike Vaporfly. (Although I think the Alphafly is in a league of its own). If you want the fastest carbon plated shoe without the name Nike, it’s your best bet.
In all, 2021 brought some great shoes. I’m looking forward to what 2022 brings.
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite road shoe of 2021?
What is your favorite shoe period?