How to choose shoes for running on hard surfaces?

What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Running on Hard Surfaces?

The number of shoe types designed for hard surfaces can be overwhelming, so when considering which running shoes to choose for concrete, it's worth taking a few important factors into account:

● Shoe size – One of the basic factors that affect comfort of running. It is generally recommended that the shoe size should be 0.5 cm larger than your normal size. During running, the foot moves and may swell slightly due to temperature, so keep this aspect in mind.

● Type of cushioning – Another crucial factor when selecting the right shoes for asphalt. The level of cushioning determines how the body is affected by shocks during running. A high level of cushioning ensures that some of the force generated when the foot strikes the ground is absorbed by the cushioning.

●Sole type – When running on asphalt, the shoe’s sole can wear down quite quickly, so it’s worth choosing models with abrasion-resistant soles. Asphalt shoes typically feature slightly thicker soles with shallow treads and a properly fitted cushioning system.

● Breathability – This is particularly important, especially in summer when asphalt can get very hot. This increases the load on the feet and can cause discomfort during running. Weather conditions affect running comfort and physical exertion also increases the body’s temperature. Therefore, it’s worth choosing shoes without an overly built-up structure. Shoes with durable mesh and vents that will enhance your comfort and help maintain proper foot hygiene are the best option.

● Grip– A good running shoe for asphalt should have good grip. Why? Because such shoes will protect you from slipping when running in the rain on slippery asphalt.

● Foot type – While running on uneven terrain allows the foot to adjust differently each time, running on asphalt is more predictable. The stride is repetitive, and if your feet have a tendency to roll inward or outward, this can become a significant issue over long distances.

Cushioning type

This is one of the most important aspects when choosing running shoes for asphalt, so we will describe it in a bit more details. We tend to associate cushioning with comfort, but it also has its opponents. Does every runner need cushioning?

When choosing running shoes, the most important thing is the individual fit - both for physical conditions, athletic ability and purpose. Shoes with cushioning are still a popular choice, even though for a while there was a fashion for natural running. A lot also depends on your lifestyle - if you have a sedentary lifestyle on a daily basis, we strongly recommend choosing shoes with cushioning. Why? Because cushioning absorbs the force of impact when your foot meets the ground. How does this happen? With the help of various foams. The most popular of these are EVA foam and Air Max.

It is worth emphasising once again that cushioning plays a very important role when running on hard surfaces - especially for beginners or those who are overweight. Running shoes for asphalt with cushioning protect the muscles and tendons from strain, which is why we recommend choosing such types of shoes.

Type of sole

Running on asphalt is a real challenge for shoe soles. To prevent your soles from wearing down like a tyre, opt for shoes with abrasion-resistant soles. Asphalt running shoes with hard rubber soles that can easily cope with hard, flat ground are best. Also look out for shoes with a tread that is not too grooved.

Outsole Good tarmac running shoes have different types of tread, as well as contoured grooves that provide better grip on the ground. A high degree of grip is very important for high stability when running. The sole for asphalt running shoes should be abrasion-resistant. It is advisable to go for high-quality rubber that can resist the weather conditions. You should also focus on the flexibility of the sole, which affects the comfort during running, because the foot will be able to bend naturally, which will certainly translate into running efficiency. The outsole should also be stiff to provide stability and protect against foot movement.

Midsole The midsole in an asphalt running shoe should be well moulded to provide adequate support. It should also be springy to provide stability. The midsole is usually made of EVA or PU foam. These materials provide very good cushioning and are also lightweight and durable.

Neutral or stability shoes - which to choose for running on asphalt?

Neutral running shoes are designed for people who run in a ‘natural’ way, i.e. what is considered the ‘correct’ way. On the other hand, shoes with stabilisation are aimed at runners with excessive pronation who need proper correction.

What is pronation? It is the way the foot twists when walking and running. People with excessive pronation twist their foot more, which means they never stand flat on the ground. Only the inner part of them touches the ground, and the strike comes from the big toe. Some people also have insufficient pronation, known as supination. This means that only the outer part of the foot is in contact with the ground, and runners bounce from the small toes.

Which shoes should I choose for running on asphalt? Neutral shoes are recommended for people with neutral or under-pronation feet. For those with excessive or insufficient pronation, stability shoes are designed to counteract pronation and provide additional support. Shoes with stabilisation allow the foot to remain in a more neutral position during landing. If a person with excessive pronation, chooses neutral shoes, they may experience foot and ankle pain after a while.

What distinguishes neutral running shoes?

lighter weight - neutral shoes are designed to provide support when running in a neutral way, so they do not have many technical features to provide additional support. As a result, their weight is usually lighter than shoes with stability.

the heel in neutral shoes has more cushioning - this is because the whole foot is in contact with the ground, and this means that the rest of the sole does not need additional cushioning as the weight is distributed evenly.

Ranking of asphalt running shoes

Below you will find a ranking of the best asphalt running shoes from the brands available at S'portofino. We recommend both models with excellent cushioning, which have a lot of foam underfoot, and classic training models that have a little less cushioning but offer a better balance in terms of softness and dynamics. Which concrete running shoes to choose? Here are some suggestions!

1. Cloudmonster 2

Technical data

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 6 mm

Weight: 295 g

Type of shoe: training, for long distances

Surface: tarmac

The On Running Cloudmonster 2 men's shoe is ideal for people who expect more than just good cushioning from their training shoes. Featuring dual-density Helion™ foam and CloudTec® cushioning in the midsole, this shoe offers maximum levels of cushioning and shock absorption. The shoe is equipped with a speedboard to make running more dynamic. These tarmac shoes are suitable for people with wider, neutral feet, as there is a lot of space in the midfoot area. The Cloudmonster 2 will work well for people who appreciate a lot of cushioning and comfort when running, but are not keen on a shoe sole that is too soft.

2. Cloudsurfer 7

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 10 mm

Weight: 245 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: asphalt

The best shoe for runners who prioritise comfort and cushioning at the expense of dynamics. Distinguished by its incredible softness, very good fit to the foot and rolling. The Cloudsurfer 7 running shoe will work well for long, steady runs on hard surfaces. The Cloudsurfer 7 is less dynamic, but has excellent energy absorption. The Cloudsurfer 7 is not suitable for those who prefer a slightly faster pace. This model features the updated CloudTec Phase system, which provides cushioning along the entire length of the foot. Special cushions (clouds) have been placed in the sole of the shoe to protect against shock while running. Although this is a shoe for hard surfaces, it will also perform well on forest terrain. This makes it a very versatile model for many runners.

3. Brooks Ghost 16

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 12 mm

Weight: 269 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: tarmac, forest paths

This is another shoe by Brooks that is ideal for everyday training. It is particularly recommended for people without overpronation. These are ‘do-it-all’ shoes. They will work well for both tarmac and forest paths. In the Brooks Ghost 16, you will notice the refreshed design of the upper. The flexible material wraps perfectly around the foot, providing a good fit in the midfoot and heel area. The upper is made of breathable mesh with 3D FIT PRINT technology, which moulds the shoe to the foot and keeps it in an optimal position. Thanks to the breathable upper, the foot does not overheat during summer runs. The sole of the Ghost 16 uses nitrogen-based DNA LOFT v3 cushioning. This foam is lighter and more resilient than previous versions. The midsole also uses the new RoadTrack rubber, making the sole more durable and providing excellent grip.

4. Claudeclipse

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 6 mm

Weight: 285 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: tarmac

The best running shoe designed for long distances. What makes it stand out? The thickest sole of all the On models. Thanks to the new Speedboard insole location, catching stones while running is a thing of the past. The rocker sole of the shoe allows the foot to roll very comfortably and provides a smoother running experience. The shoe will work very well for slightly heavier runners. It will be a good option for longer distances. The Cloudclipse features a dual CloudTec Phase™ sole, which guarantees a new level of comfort and cushioning in the MAX edition. The new sole ensures smooth weight transfer from heel to toe, offering excellent rolling dynamics and cushioning, thanks to the domino effect.

5. Cloudflow 4

Technical data

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 9 mm

Weight: 235 g

Shoe type: training and running

Surface: tarmac

Training/starting model. It is highly dynamic, lightweight and extremely responsive. The Cloudflow 4 running shoe features a modified, spoon-shaped Speedboard that offers dynamic support when rolling the foot, which translates into greater running comfort. Thanks to the differentiated density Helion™ foam, these shoes absorb shock during ground contact. What's more, the absorbed energy is given back during impact, further enhancing responsiveness. The upper of this model is made from 100% recycled polyester. These running shoes are designed for 5 and 10 km competitions and faster training sessions. It is a particularly good option for beginner runners. The high dynamics of this model ensure fast running, while the lack of carbon strengthens the feet.

6. Brooks Glycerin 20

Technical data

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 10 mm

Weight: 286 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: tarmac

The Brooks Glycerin 20 training shoe is a model designed for hard surfaces. It stands out for its very good cushioning and comfort, which is why it will perform well on asphalt. This is a shoe that will work for heavier runners as well as those running a few dozen kilometres a week. This model will work well for runners with neutral feet. The shoe's sole is made of nitrogenous DNA LOFT foam, thanks to which every step provides a feeling of softness. The air spaces reduce fatigue and provide excellent cushioning and the highest level of shock absorption. The seamless upper made of breathable mesh ensures a perfect fit to the foot. This model also stands out for its excellent stability, thanks to the right balance between softness and firmness. In addition, the shoe's heel counter is very rigid, providing very good heel hold.

7. Hoka Bondi 8

Foot type: neutral, supinated

Drop: 4 mm

Weight: 252 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: tarmac

This is the most cushioned shoe of all Hoka models. It is a shoe designed for long and ultra-long distance running even for the most demanding runners. Who will it be perfect for? For people who expect maximum comfort and softness. This model is equipped with as much as 33 mm of EVA foam under the heel and 29 mm under the toe. This amount of foam perfectly protects the joints from bumping against hard asphalt. The Hoka Bondi 8 running shoe will work well for runners over 90 kg, but also for lighter people who are looking for shoes for a leisurely run. This asphalt running model features Meta-Rocker technology, a rocker sole design that makes the transition from heel to toe smoother. The Bondi 8 outsole, with large tabs that run along the mid and lateral sides, provide runners with plenty of grip and durability in the shoe. The shoe features a modern design and an unprecedented sole shape. A higher heel counter and a specially designed upper (jacquard) increase the comfort of these tarmac running shoes.

8. On Running Cloudstratus 3

Foot type: pronation

Drop: 6 mm

Weight: 290 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: asphalt

This is one of the best cushioned running shoes for paved surfaces by On Running. It is ideal for everyday training and long runs. The women's Cloudstratus 3 shoe features a dual CloudTec® foam cloud system to provide a soft landing and reduce muscle fatigue. It is a good training shoe for lighter and more ambitious runners. The shoe features a Speedboard polyamide insert that offers dynamic support when rolling the foot from heel to toe.

9. On Running Cloudspark

The men's On Running Cloudspark asphalt running shoe is an innovative training model that is recommended for those looking for a springy stride. It is a good choice for everyday runs. The midsole is made of differentiated density foam and a Speedboard nylon insert, so the shoe is excellent at absorbing shock, collecting the energy created and providing a springy bounce at the same time. The shoe features a lightweight and streamlined upper made from 100% recycled polyester. This model is a great option for those who appreciate the latest technology and fashionable design in running shoes.

10. Salomon Aero Glide 2

Foot type: neutral

Drop: 10 mm

Weight: 270 g

Shoe type: training

Surface: tarmac

This is a training model ideal for hard surfaces. It provides soft cushioning and a powerful rolling action. It will be ideal for people who train 1-2 times a week. The Salomon Aero Glide 2 men's running shoe is extremely soft and features great cushioning thanks to the Energy Foam. This foam absorbs shock while maintaining the right amount of bounce for the greatest comfort. In addition, the curved geometry of the Reverse Camber sole allows for dynamic rolling, supporting the natural movement of the foot. This model is recommended for those looking for a high level of shoe cushioning and running comfort.

Summary

Well-chosen running shoes are crucial to a runner's comfort and health. When making a purchase, it is worth paying attention to a few important elements such as adequate cushioning, stability and the fit of the shoes to the foot. Shoes designed for running on hard surfaces should effectively absorb shock to protect joints and muscles from strain. It is also worth considering the type of tread and the durability of the shoe materials. We hope our guide will help you choose the best asphalt running shoes for you! Take a look at our guide on choosing off-road running shoes, where we give you tips on how to choose off-road shoes. Have a great run and see you on the city paths!