Whether you are getting fit or keeping fit, running is always more enjoyable when your feet are happy. Choosing the right shoes for your running style is important – never mind the fact that a snazzy pair of running shoes is a great motivator to get out and about. Here are the top five running shoes specially designed for women.

1. Nike Free 0.5 iD

The Nike Free 0.5 iD running shoes are designed to extend the foot’s natural range of motion. This increases stability while ensuring a comfortable ride without skimping on flexibility. These running shoes have a soft feel ride and prove to be exceptionally durable. The Free series is so lightweight and comfortable that it feels like you are training barefoot.

2. Brooks Ghost 5

For a very smooth ride the Brooks Ghost 5 are the go-to running shoes. The design of this pair of running shoes manages to remain lightweight without skimping on structure and flexibility. Mid-foot strikers will have a ball with the Ghost 5s because the caterpillar crash pad is extended slightly to provide ideal shock-absorption.

3. Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 15

Stability and durability are the name of the game with the Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 15 running shoes. The design includes stiff heel and arch support with a flexible fore-foot to maximise support on long training sessions. These running shoes give you a lot of bang for your buck and will keep going for kilometres on end.

4. Asics Gel Cumulus 14

Lightweight and exceptionally comfortable, this pair of running shoes is ideal for marathon training. Praised for its superior cushioning design, the Asics Gel Cumulus 14 is perfect for a runner who is prone to damaging the pads of her feet. These running shoes are great in hot and humid weather too, because their uppers moderate heat and moisture.

5. Newton Gravity III

This pair of running shoes has excellent mileage and reliability. They are great for endurance training and racing because the forefoot and heel protection makes for a steadfast performance. When you want a ride that will stay comfortable over long periods of time, the Gravity IIIs are your best bet.

Getting the right pair of running shoes for you means that all you have to worry about, when you are out on a run, is how far and how fast you want to push yourself. Whether you are you going for stability, cushioning, and flexibility or the “bare foot” feeling, when the best pair of shoes for you means you will never want to take them off.