Neutral running shoes

• Key features:
  • These are built for runners who have a natural gait/foot strike (i.e., their feet don’t excessively roll inward or outward) — often called a “neutral” pronation. 
  • They provide cushioning and shock-absorption but minimal additional support or motion control features. 
  • Because they don’t have extra stabilising structures, they tend to be lighter and more flexible. 

• Product examples:
  • ASICS Novablast 5: A highly-cushioned and versatile neutral shoe known for its bouncy ride.
  • Brooks Ghost 17: A cushioned, neutral option from Brooks, available in multiple widths. 

Stability running shoes

These are engineered to assist runners who overpronate, which is when the foot rolls too far inward after landing.

• Key features

  • These are designed for runners whose feet over-pronate (i.e., roll inward significantly) during running, or whose gait might benefit from added guidance/support.

  • They include features like a medial post (denser foam on the inside of the midsole), guide rails, or reinforced structures to limit excessive inward roll and encourage a more neutral alignment. 

  • They may be heavier or less flexible than neutral shoes because of the added support. 

   

• Product examples:
  • Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24: A well-regarded stability shoe featuring Brooks' GuideRails technology to keep your stride aligned.
  • ASICS Gel Kayano 32: Offers exceptional cushioning with a 4D Guidance System for adaptive support.

🎯 Key differences at a glance