Chasing 26 | The Best Running Shoes for parkrun 2026

With 1,300 events in the UK alone, parkrun is incredibly diverse in terms of the type of routes and terrain.

So, whether it's your maiden voyage or you're hitting a parkrun milestone we're here to ensure you have the right footwear for the job.

Check out our top parkrun shoe recommendations below for all types of terrain and performance;

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1. Best parkrun shoes on a budget 2026 (£110 and below)

If you're on a budget but looking for a reliable all-round running shoe suitable for both training and parkrun, then check out these bestselling models for under £110;

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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Brooks Revel 8

Now with lighter, softer cushioning and an updated engineered knit upper, the Revel 8 from Brooks delivers on-the-run performance with a springy feel. Casual style takes over when you head from your morning run to your coffee run.

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ASICS GEL-Pulse 16

Designed with lightweight comfort in mind, you'll enjoy every run in the ASICS GEL-Pulse 16. The rearfoot GEL technology and lightweight midsole absorb impact and reducing the stress on your joints as you run.

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HOKA Rincon 4

The HOKA Rincon 4 is the perfect all rounder. Cushioned enough for long days and lightweight enough for fast days. The upgraded cushioning provides extra rebound while increasing longevity, working with the outsole to make each step feel softer than the last.

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PUMA Velocity NITRO 4

A do-it-all shoe, with sleek styling and outstanding energy return. The smooth ride and optimal cushioning makes the PUMA Velocity NITRO 4 shoe the perfect blend of comfort and performance.

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2. Best parkrun shoes 2026 (above £110)

If you want a pair of reliable all-round performance running shoes for training and for parkrun, then here are some great recommendations;

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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BROOKS Glycerin 22

If you're looking for supreme softness and ultimate comfort, the neutral Brooks Glycerin 22 running shoe provides an ultra plush ride thanks the soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned cushioning, plus a new double jacquard wrap knit upper that delivers structure and breathability.

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ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28

Run on clouds in one of the most comfortable shoes in the ASICS range. 20g lighter than the previous version, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 provides ultimate comfort without the extra weight.

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HOKA Bondi 9

Completely resigned from the previous model, the HOK3098 has increased stack height and a new premium foam midsole to deliver a soft, resilient ride every run.

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3. Best parkrun shoes for gravel and light trails 2026

If your local parkrun is more trail based, then you'll need a shoe with a bit of extra grip to cope with a mix of terrain. Check out our recommendations for shoes suited to gravel and light trails;

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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Brooks Ghost Trail

Enjoy the feel and ride of the Brooks Ghost, with 3mm outsole lugs to allow you to run off road with confidence. The soft DNA Loft v3 midsole and reliable all terrain traction allows you to explore paths and trails straight from your door in the Brooks Ghost Trail.

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Salomon Aero Blaze 3 GRVL

Head from the road to gravel and beyond in the Salomon Aero Blaze 3 GRVL. The optiFOAM² midsole is soft and responsive, coupled with a secure fit and grippy outsole, you'll have the confidence to explore in this shoe.

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Saucony Ride TR2

There are no boundaries for the Saucony Ride TR2, it'll take you from road to trail and back again. The PWRRUN+ cushioning is supremely comfortable and will give you a spring in your step to keep going.

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Nike ReactX Pegasus Trail 5

A true road to trail shoe, the Nike ReactX Pegasus Trail 5 delivers smooth comfort and traction on all surfaces. The ReactX midsole propels you from dirt to drives and the ATC outsole provides reliable grip on all terrain.

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4. Best parkrun super shoes for smashing a PB 2026

Check out our selection of racing category models that are fast, sleek and engineered to help you smash your parkrun target.

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure

Designed for flat-out speed the Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure is the lightest in Mizuno's Hyperwarp line up and it's perfect for a 5k. The light, responsive midsole and 3D full-length carbon plate effectively enhance running efficiency and help you ramp up the speed.

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adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4

The pinnacle of Adizero Racing shoes, the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is built for runners who want to experience faster. The soft Lightstrike Pro provides cushioned energy return, whilst the carbon-infused ENERGYRODS 2.0 enhance forward propulsion for a fast toe-off.

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New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5

Run with purpose in the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5. The lightweight design, carbon fibre plate and ultra-responsive PEBA midsole, pushes you with every step toward your performance.

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HOKA Rocket X 3

Achieve your personal best in the HOKA Rocket X 3. The bouncy midsole and rearfoot-focused active foot frame offers responsive cushioning without compromising on support. Integrated with Metarocker technology for a smooth, efficient gait cycle.

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5. Best parkrun Trail super shoes for smashing a PB 2026

If your aiming for a PB on your local parkrun but you need to tackle some mud and trails, then you'll need a shoe to provide you with both grip and speed.

Check out our top trail running super shoes recommendations below;

*PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING SHOES ARE NOT LISTED IN RANK ORDER*

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BROOKS CATAMOUNT AGIL

Don't let your fast times be just on the road. Ultra-lightweight and aggressive, the Catamount Agil is Brooks' fastest trail shoe yet. This shoe is designed with a nitrogen-infused midsole for cushioning and will help you move faster and with confidence on the trails.

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Nike ZoomX Ultrafly

Nike's championship trail racing shoe. The Nike ZoomX Ultrafly combines Nike's best speed components from the running world with what you need to plant your flag 1st at the finish line. It offers peak performance, sleek speed and endurance for those who want to go fast on the trails.

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ASICS Metafuji Trail

The Metafuji Trail is ASICS' fastest trail shoe yet, so nothing will hold you back. The shoe has a full-length carbon plate to direct your energy forward and lightweight FF BLAST™ PLUS foam, so you can reach maximum speed with ease.

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HOKA Tecton X 3

Even lighter and grippier than ever before the HOKA Tecton X 3 will allow you to fly over any terrain. With a carbon fibre plate, two layers of PEBA midsole and Vibram Megagrip, nothing will stop you. Topping it off, a knit collar extends up to the ankle, like a gaiter, for extra protection.

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Interested in the latest shoes, apparel and technology? Then head over to our Kit & Gear category for more reviews, tips, advice and product releases.