What's behind our Ratings?
We ask our test-panelists to rate shoes in 5 key areas to see which ones go the distance.
 
 
We look for:
Fit
Cushioning
Flexibility
Stability
Breathability
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Some sports require lots of expensive equipment, but all you need for running or walking is a good pair of shoes. Thanks to modern materials and sophisticated design, most of the athletic shoes we tested performed well overall. If you're looking for information about athletic shoes, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Use our athletic shoe buying guide to learn about the athletic shoe features that are most important to consider. We also provide Ratings and recommendations on the best types of athletic shoes, including running shoes and walking shoes.