They tested over 30 running shoes — can they help you chose the right ones?

This piece; I’ve tested over 30 running shoes — here are the best for beginners, arch support and more has been out for over a week in NBC Select. There, tech reporter Harry Rabinowitz and his team ran in a swath of recently released and highly touted running shoes from some top brands. He highlights some important considerations for choosing your next pair and my views follow a summary of the article below.

Here's a summary of the article:

NBC Select conducted a comprehensive review of men’s running shoes by combining expert consultation, hands-on testing, and detailed evaluation criteria. Reporter Harry Rabinowitz collaborated with podiatrist Dr. Miguel Cunha and certified trainer Zach Moxham to understand the key factors that make a running shoe effective, including fit, cushioning, support, traction, and durability.

The testing methodology involved wearing each shoe for at least a week, covering multiple running scenarios such as regular runs, tempo workouts, and long-distance sessions. Shoes were evaluated for how they handled different paces, impact absorption, and overall comfort. The team also considered inclusivity in sizing, accommodating various foot widths and shapes, and examined midsole and insole materials for support and shock absorption.

Fit was emphasized as the most critical factor, with experts recommending in-person trials, trying multiple models, and paying close attention to toe box space. Shoes were also assessed for their suitability across different terrains and weather conditions. NBC Select’s strategy balanced objective performance testing with expert insight and practical experience, providing a framework to help runners choose shoes tailored to their foot structure, running style, and training goals.

Here's my critical look at the article's messaging and approach to help keep things on the level!

This article does a great job breaking down the basics of fit, cushioning, and comfort, and it’s spot-on about sizing and giving your toes room to move. Fit really matters! Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or just off can lead to blisters, nail issues, or general foot misery. And that extra toe box space? It lets your feet spread naturally and push off the ground properly, which keeps you stable and running efficiently. These are super important points, especially if you’re new to running or just getting back into it.

That said, the article could lean more into what really matters for performance and staying injury-free. Features like lace length, heel loops, or “comfort” are nice-to-haves, but they’re mostly personal preference—they won’t make or break your long-term running health. The real question to ask when picking shoes is: will these help me stay healthy and running consistently, given my fitness level, mileage, local surfaces, and goals? Shoes should be tools to help you train safely, not just a cozy accessory.

There’s also a little overemphasis on structured shoes. Too much cushioning or support can actually weaken your feet over time if you rely on it too heavily. Runners who need arch help will get more benefit from strengthening their foot muscles than from leaning on “supportive” shoes. And pronation? Totally natural—it’s how your feet absorb shock, and strong feet and legs handle it way better than any shoe can. Knee pain is usually about how you train, not your shoes.

Bottom line: pick shoes that help you stay injury-free, match your training and environment, and complement good form and strength work. Protecting your body and focusing long-term comes first!

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