Running is a popular form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, one of the most critical pieces of equipment is a good pair of running shoes. Not only do they provide support and comfort, but they also help prevent injuries.

When it comes to running shoes, there are many factors to consider, including the type of running you'll be doing, your foot shape, and any specific needs you may have. One of the most important aspects to consider is weight, particularly for women. Lightweight running shoes are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a more natural feel and can improve performance.

When looking for the best lightweight running shoes for women, there are several critical factors to consider. Firstly, the weight of the shoe itself is essential. A lightweight shoe can help reduce fatigue and improve speed. Secondly, the level of support and cushioning is crucial, as this will impact comfort and prevent injuries. Lastly, the fit of the shoe is vital, as a poorly fitting shoe can cause blisters and other foot problems.

After researching and testing multiple lightweight running shoes for women, we have identified the top ten shoes that offer the best performance, comfort, and support.

Best Lightweight Running Shoes for Women

We understand the importance of having the right pair of running shoes, especially if you're someone who enjoys running on a regular basis. That's why we've put together a list of the best lightweight running shoes for women. These shoes are designed to provide you with comfort, support, and stability, all while being lightweight enough to help you run faster and longer. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned runner, these shoes are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So without further ado, let's take a look at our top picks for the best lightweight running shoes for women.

ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes

If you're looking for a comfortable and lightweight running shoe, the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 might be the one for you.

Pros

• The engineered jacquard mesh upper creates a softer feel against the foot while improving breathability.
• The AMPLIFOAM cushioning improves durability and creates a more flexible feel at footstrike.
• The rearfoot GEL technology improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike.

Cons

• The arch support might not be adequate for some users.
• The sizing might run small, so it's recommended to order half a size up.
• The color options might be limited for some users.

We've been using the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 for a while now, and we're impressed with its comfort and lightweight feel. The mesh upper is breathable and soft, which makes it comfortable to wear even for extended periods. The cushioning and GEL technology in the midsole provide a more forgiving landing at footstrike, which reduces the impact on our feet and joints.

Although the arch support might not be enough for some users, we found that it's still comfortable to wear for short to medium runs. We also recommend ordering half a size up as the sizing might run small. The color options might be limited for some users, but we found the black and white option to be versatile and stylish.

Overall, we recommend the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 for casual fitness runners looking for a comfortable and lightweight running shoe.

Brooks Women’s Launch 9 Neutral Running Shoe

If you're looking for a dependable and lightweight running shoe, the Brooks Women’s Launch 9 Neutral Running Shoe is a great option.

Pros

• The DNA cushioning provides a comfortable and responsive ride.
• The upper is highly breathable, making it great for hot weather runs.
• The shoe has a streamlined design and is lightweight, making it easy to run faster.

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that the toe box is narrow, which may not be comfortable for those with wider feet.
• The shoe may run a bit small, so it's recommended to order half a size to a full size larger than your dress shoe.
• The colorway may not be to everyone's taste.

We've been using the Brooks Women’s Launch 9 Neutral Running Shoe for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The DNA cushioning provides a comfortable and responsive ride, making it easy to run faster and longer. The upper is highly breathable, which is great for hot weather runs. The shoe has a streamlined design and is lightweight, making it easy to run faster without feeling weighed down.

One thing to note is that some reviewers have noted that the toe box is narrow, which may not be comfortable for those with wider feet. It's also recommended to order half a size to a full size larger than your dress shoe, as the shoe may run a bit small. Additionally, the colorway may not be to everyone's taste.

Overall, if you're looking for a dependable and lightweight running shoe, the Brooks Women’s Launch 9 Neutral Running Shoe is definitely worth considering.

adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoe

We highly recommend the adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoe for any woman looking for a comfortable and stylish running shoe.

Pros

• The super soft Cloudfoam cushioning provides a comfortable and lightweight feel while running.
• The textile upper is durable and the synthetic outsole is flexible for running on any surface.
• The shoes are made with Primegreen, a series of high-performance recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Cons

• Some users with wider feet have reported that the shoes are too narrow.
• The shoes may not provide enough support for those with high arches.
• The sizing may run slightly small, so it's recommended to order a half size up.

From the moment we put on the adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoe, we knew we had found a winner. The Cloudfoam cushioning provided a soft and comfortable feel while running, and the lightweight design made it feel like we were running on air.

The textile upper is durable and held up well during our runs, while the synthetic outsole provided enough flexibility to run on any surface. We also love that the shoes are made with recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice.

However, some users with wider feet have reported that the shoes are too narrow, so it's important to keep that in mind when ordering. Additionally, those with high arches may find that the shoes don't provide enough support. Finally, the sizing may run slightly small, so it's recommended to order a half size up.

Overall, we highly recommend the adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoe for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish running shoe that's also eco-friendly.

adidas Originals Women's Swift Run Shoes

If you're looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of running shoes, then we highly recommend the adidas Originals Women's Swift Run Shoes.

Pros

• The stretch mesh Lurex upper is not only stylish but also breathable, keeping your feet cool and dry during your runs.
• The lightweight EVA midsole and OrthoLite sockliner provide excellent cushioning and support, making these shoes comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
• The matte TPU 3-Stripes add a subtle touch of style to the shoe, making them versatile enough to wear for both running and casual wear.

Cons

• These shoes run large, so we recommend sizing down for a better fit.
• The shoes can be difficult to put on if you have a larger heel.
• While these shoes are comfortable, they may lack the level of support needed for high-intensity workouts.

Overall, the adidas Originals Women's Swift Run Shoes are a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of running shoes. With their breathable mesh upper, lightweight cushioning, and versatile design, these shoes are perfect for both running and casual wear.

Brooks Trace 2 Running Shoe

If you're looking for a lightweight running shoe that offers neutral support, the Brooks Trace 2 Running Shoe is worth considering.

Pros

• The BioMoGo DNA cushioning system provides excellent shock absorption, ensuring a comfortable ride every time you run.
• The 3D Fit Print and air-mesh upper provide extra structure to hold your foot in place while also providing optimum airflow.
• The segmented crash pad cushions your landing and creates a soft, seamless heel-to-toe transition from take-off to landing.

Cons

• The shoes may run a little small, so you may need to order a half-size up.
• Some users have reported that the shoes are not as durable as they would like.
• The shoes may be a little more expensive than some other lightweight running shoes on the market.

We recently tried out the Brooks Trace 2 Running Shoe and were impressed with its performance. The cushioning system provided excellent shock absorption, ensuring a comfortable ride every time we ran. The 3D Fit Print and air-mesh upper also provided extra structure to hold our foot in place while also providing optimum airflow, keeping our feet cool and dry even during intense runs.

The segmented crash pad was also a standout feature, cushioning our landing and creating a soft, seamless heel-to-toe transition from take-off to landing. We also appreciated the overall design of the shoe, which was both stylish and functional.

However, we did notice that the shoes may run a little small, so you may need to order a half-size up to ensure a comfortable fit. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoes are not as durable as they would like, so it may be worth considering this before making a purchase. Finally, the shoes may be a little more expensive than some other lightweight running shoes on the market, so this is also something to keep in mind.

Overall, we would recommend the Brooks Trace 2 Running Shoe to anyone looking for a lightweight running shoe that offers neutral support and excellent cushioning.

Buying Guide

When shopping for the best lightweight running shoes for women, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the most comfortable and supportive shoe for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Foot Type

It's important to consider your foot type when selecting a running shoe. Do you have flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches? This will impact the type of shoe you should choose. Look for shoes that offer support and cushioning in the areas where you need it most.

Material

The material of the shoe can impact its weight, breathability, and durability. Look for shoes made with lightweight and breathable materials such as mesh or knit. These materials will help keep your feet cool and comfortable during your runs.

Sole

The sole of the shoe is also an important factor to consider. Look for shoes with a sole that provides good traction and support. A sole with good shock absorption will help reduce the impact on your feet and joints during your runs.

Fit

Of course, the fit of the shoe is crucial. Look for shoes that fit snugly but not too tight. You should be able to wiggle your toes comfortably. Make sure to try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear during your runs to ensure a proper fit.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when selecting a running shoe. While it's important to invest in a quality shoe, there are options available at a variety of price points. Determine your budget before shopping to help narrow down your options.