Every runner knows how important it is to choose their ideal running shoes. Always at your side, through every step, sprint, and marathon, these shoes are more than simply shoes. The world-famous sports retailer Pro:Direct Sport has an outstanding selection of running shoes for women. Whatever your level of athletic experience, Pro:Direct Sport offers the perfect shoe to maximise comfort and performance.
Let’s take a look at the best of what’s changing the face of running in 2024.
5. Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 41
The Nike Pegasus is one of the most recognisable brands of running shoes. The Volt/Black/Barely Volt Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 41 exemplifies Nike’s dedication to sustainability and innovation.
The ReactX midsole, included in the newest version of the adored Pegasus line, revolutionises performance and sustainability. The ReactX foam has a remarkable 13% increase in responsiveness over its predecessor and a 43% decrease in carbon footprint per pair of midsoles. Runners and the environment both benefit from it.
However, that is not the end of the advances. The Pegasus 41 is similar to previous iterations in that it has two Air Zoom units, with the first located in the heel to provide soft landings and the second in the forefoot to provide a powerful toe-off. The combination of these two elements, housed in the ReactX foam, creates an explosive and springy ride that helps runners advance with every stride.
The shoe’s upper has also received an upgrade. The improved engineered mesh not only shaves off weight but also enhances breathability, keeping feet cool and comfortable even on the hottest runs. And let’s not forget the iconic waffle-inspired rubber outsole, providing flexible traction for a natural gait and confident footing on various surfaces.
Key Features:
- Upgraded ReactX foam midsole for enhanced responsiveness and sustainability
- Dual Air Zoom units in the forefoot and heel for optimal cushioning and energy return
- Signature waffle-inspired rubber outsole for superior traction and flexibility
- Improved engineered mesh upper for reduced weight and increased breathability
- Plush collar, tongue, and sockliner for a secure and comfortable fit
Try on a pair of Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 41 if you’re a runner seeking a shoe that combines heritage with innovation. You won’t be disappointed.
4. ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 26
Runners have long favoured the ASICS Gel-Nimbus series for its long-distance comfort. Continuing this tradition, the Women’s Gel-Nimbus 26 in Black/Cool Matcha shows that excellence can be improved upon.
At the heart of the Gel-Nimbus 26 is its exceptional midsole. ASICS has wisely chosen to retain the core elements that made previous versions so popular, whilst making subtle enhancements for an even better running experience. The PureGEL technology in the heel provides incredibly soft landings, absorbing impact and reducing stress on joints. This is complemented by the FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, a sustainable foam that offers an optimal blend of softness, cushioning, and responsiveness.
The Gel-Nimbus 26’s adaptability is its true brilliance. You can rely on this shoe whether you’re going for a leisurely run or a fast tempo exercise. Its signature cushioning is still its best attribute, making these shoes a top pick for runners who value opulence in their footwear.
ASICS has also made significant updates to the upper and outsole. The new Engineered knit upper provides a more adaptive fit and enhanced comfort, hugging the foot like a second skin. The stretchy knit tongue and collar construction further contribute to the shoe’s plush feel and improved fit.
On the ground, a new hybrid ASICSGRIP outsole offers a softer feel underfoot without compromising on traction or durability. It’s a thoughtful update that enhances the overall running experience.
Key Features:
- PureGel heel cushioning for exceptionally soft landings
- FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning for responsive, sustainable performance
- Engineered knit upper with stretchy knit tongue and collar for adaptive comfort
- ASICSGRIP outsole for improved traction and durability
- 25% lower carbon footprint than industry standard, according to ASICS
Those in need of a running shoe that strikes the ideal balance between comfort and performance might want to give the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 a go.
3. HOKA Women’s Clifton 9
The Women’s Clifton 9 in Blanc De Blanc/Swim Day by HOKA elevates the brand’s signature maximalist cushioning philosophy to unprecedented heights. More is more, as shown by the newest version of the adored Clifton line.
The Clifton 9 has a higher stack height and 3 millimetres of underfoot padding. Surprisingly, though, it weighs less than its predecessor. A shoe with an unprecedented amount of cushioning and an extremely light sensation is the outcome of this apparently incongruous combination.
Adding additional foam wasn’t the end goal for HOKA, though. The Clifton 9 now has a livelier ride thanks to a new, more sensitive midsole composition. A little bounce propels runners forward with each stride, making runs feel easy and fun.
Additionally, the outsole has been upgraded with a new design that incorporates Durabrasion rubber. Runners can confidently take on different surfaces and weather situations thanks to this innovation, which ensures long-lasting traction.
Up top, the Clifton 9 sports a breathable engineered knit upper that offers a perfect balance of comfort and support. The gusseted tongue stays in place throughout the run, eliminating any distractions, whilst the plush heel collar provides improved comfort and a secure fit.
Key Features:
- Increased stack height for enhanced cushioning
- Lighter overall weight for an effortless feel
- New, more responsive midsole foam for an energetic ride
- Breathable engineered knit upper for foot-hugging comfort
- Gusseted tongue and plush heel collar for improved fit and comfort
- Durabrasion rubber outsole for long-lasting traction
- Early-stage meta-rocker for smooth transitions
Those who are prepared to feel like they’re running on air might want to try on the HOKA Women’s Clifton 9.
2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080v13
The Black Fresh Foam X 1080v13 for Women is New Balance’s pinnacle of innovation. Not content with merely modernising the running shoe, the designers have gone all out to redefine its potential. If you look at the features of the “world’s best running shoe for everyone,” as New Balance so confidently calls it, you’ll realise why.
The 1080v13 features an all-new version of New Balance’s Fresh Foam X midsole. This updated foam manages to reduce weight whilst simultaneously increasing energy return and cushioning. The result? A more responsive ride that feels lighter and faster underfoot.
The 1080v13’s revamped outsole is one of the shoe’s most groundbreaking features. The forefoot is now 33% stiffer thanks to New Balance’s switch from horizontal to vertical grooves. The data-driven design enhances the heel-toe roll, leading to a more organised and seamless stride transition.
Similarly remarkable is the 1080v13’s top. A Hypoknit upper made from recycled bottles was developed by New Balance in collaboration with REPREVE, a prominent recycled performance fibre business. The upper offers a comfortable, airy fit with great security, demonstrating that this environmentally conscious method does not sacrifice performance.
Key Features:
- Updated Fresh Foam X midsole for reduced weight and increased energy return
- Vertical groove outsole design for improved heel-to-toe transition
- REPREVE recycled fibres in the Hypoknit upper for sustainability and performance
- Higher stack height for enhanced cushioning
- Versatile design suitable for various running styles and distances
The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080v13 are running shoes that will take you on a journey into running’s future.
1. PUMA Women’s Velocity Nitro 3
Lastly but certainly not least is the Vapour Gray/Sun Stream/Sunset Glow PUMA Women’s Velocity Nitro 3. Running should be an exhilarating, carefree experience, and this shoe captures that spirit.
The NITRO foam is the most noticeable aspect of the Velocity Nitro 3. This responsive material has been increased by 10mm by PUMA, creating a sneaker that provides explosive energy return with each step. This shoe is perfect for both short sprints and long-distance runs because to its increased cushioning, which also offers enhanced comfort.
The upper of the Velocity Nitro 3 is a masterpiece of engineering. It features a breathable fabric with bespoke PWRTAPE reinforcement, providing targeted support exactly where needed. The rolled collar with foam padding ensures a comfortable and secure fit around the ankle.
On the ground, a PUMAGRIP outsole offers excellent multi-surface traction. Whether pounding the pavement or tackling light trails, this shoe provides confident footing and a smooth ride.
Key Features:
- Increased NITRO foam for explosive energy return and enhanced cushioning
- Engineered breathable mesh upper with PWRTAPE for targeted support
- PUMAGRIP outsole for excellent multi-surface traction
- Rolled collar with foam for enhanced comfort and fit
- Versatile design suitable for various distances and paces
Those ready to inject some nitro into their runs should consider giving the PUMA Women’s Velocity Nitro 3 a try.
Your Perfect Running Companion Awaits
Pro:Direct Sport believes that every runner deserves the perfect shoe. Whether prioritising cushioning, responsiveness, sustainability, or versatility, their collection of women’s running shoes has something for everyone.
Choose the perfect running shoe from our wide selection: the timeless Pegasus 41 from Nike, the maximalist Clifton 9 from HOKA, the plush Gel-Nimbus 26 from ASICS, the all-around 1080v13 from New Balance, and the explosive Velocity Nitro 3 from PUMA.
Runners shouldn’t settle for less when it comes to their running shoes. Visiting Pro:Direct Sport today could be the first step towards elevating the running experience. Your feet will thank you, and your personal bests may follow!
