Although we spend a lot of time testing running shoes to find out which ones we think are worth your money, we don’t always know what the rest of the running population is enjoying or whether they agree with us. So when Strava sent over its 2025 Year in Sport Trend Report, sharing the most logged shoe brands, we were all ears.
The report, based on data from more than 180 million users, showed that Asics, Nike and Hoka are the three brands runners are logging the most activities in worldwide. All three brands appear at least once in our best running shoes guide, so we can’t say we’re hugely surprised. What we can say is that it makes perfect sense why these brands continue to dominate the roads, and Strava feeds.
The Strava app collects this data through its gear-tracking feature, where runners can log the shoes they use for each activity. Not everyone does it, but for those who do, it’s a mix of showing off new sneakers and, more importantly, keeping tabs on mileage. Since most experts suggest swapping shoes every 300 to 500 miles, it can be a handy reminder of when it’s time for a new pair.
1. ASICS Novablast
The most recorded shoe on Strava was the ASICS Novablast. It’s worth noting that in the Strava app, users can log the brand and model line, but not the specific version number. For clarity, we’ll focus on the most up-to-date model we’ve tested and reviewed here at Tom’s Guide.
The latest model to arrive in the Novablast lineup is the Asics Novablast 5, which we voted the best running shoe for beginners this year. After its launch in summer 2024, the Novablast 5 quickly stood out for its balance of comfort, support and fun, making it a shoe you will actually look forward to running in. It's lightweight, durable and has a soft, springy feel underfoot that helps absorb impact while keeping runs enjoyable.
Asics
2. Nike Pegasus
The Nike Pegasus was the second most recorded running shoe in Strava’s end-of-year report, and the latest version, the Nike Pegasus 41, is the model we currently rate at Tom’s Guide as the best value running shoe.
Our fitness editor Jane McGuire has been writing about the Pegasus since the Pegasus 35, and while she says this makes her feel old, it also means she can say with confidence that the 41 is the best version yet. It’s a reliable workhorse, suitable for beginners and more experienced runners alike. With a lighter, more breathable upper, Nike’s bouncy ReactX midsole, and Zoom Air pods under the heel and forefoot, it’s comfortable and versatile for all kinds of runs.
Hoka Clifton 10
The Hoka Clifton 10 was the third most used shoe in Strava’s 2025 data, and it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the most affordable cushioned shoes from Hoka, and while the foam isn’t super soft or bouncy, it’s stable and reliable for everyday runs. The padded collar, tongue, and structured heel provide a secure fit, and it feels comfortable and stable from the first step at easy, everyday running paces.
When my colleague Nick tested it back in February, he wasn’t wrong: “I can see it remaining as popular as ever as one of the best mid-range shoes available.” Judging by Strava’s data, runners clearly agree. It didn’t feature in our running shoe guide because we don't think it’s the most versatile or lively option, but for reliable comfort and stability, you can't go wrong.
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