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Why Is It So Hard to Find Last Year’s Running Shoes?

 

Why Is It So Hard to Find Last Year’s Running Shoes?

Have you ever walked into a shoe store, ready to pick up another pair of your tried-and-true favorites, only to find that last year’s model has vanished or been completely redesigned? You’re not alone! Many people share this frustration, especially when they’ve finally found a shoe that fits their needs—whether it’s neutral, mild stability, or maximum stability, and from low to high stack height.

Every season, brands roll out new designs, tweak features, or change sizing, making it a real challenge to stick with what works. Understanding terms like “stack height” (the thickness of the sole) and “heel-to-toe drop” (the difference in height between the heel and forefoot) can help you compare new models and find the right fit, even when your go-to shoe gets a makeover.

Condensed Running Shoe Comparison: 2025 vs. 2026 

Category Brand 2025 Model 2026 Model Note
Neutral Cushioning Asics Novablast 5 Novablast 6 More cushion
Neutral Cushioning Brooks Glycerin Max Glycerin Flex Flexible redesign
Neutral Cushioning New Balance 1080 v14 1080 v15 Annual update
Mild Stability Brooks Adrenaline GTS Adrenaline GTS 24 Oct 2025 release
Mild Stability Asics Gel-Kayano Gel-Kayano 32 Lighter, higher stack
Mild Stability New Balance 860 860v14 2025 update
Moderate Stability Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Adrenaline GTS 24 Confirmed
Moderate Stability Asics Gel-Kayano 30 Gel-Kayano 32 Confirmed
Maximum Stability Brooks Beast Beast 24 Not yet confirmed
Maximum Stability New Balance 1540 1540v3 Not yet confirmed
High Stack Height HOKA Bondi 9 Bondi 10 Not yet confirmed
High Stack Height On Running Cloudeclipse Cloudmonster 3 Hyper LS March 2026 release
Low Stack Height Altra Escalante Racer Escalante 5 Aug 2025 release
Low Stack Height Saucony Kinvara 13 Kinvara 14 Not yet confirmed



So, if you’re tired of playing hide-and-seek with your favorite shoes, remember you’re in good company. While brands love to innovate, your comfort and foot health shouldn’t be left behind. Understanding terms like stack height and heel-to-toe drop, as well as the different stability categories, can help you compare new models and find the right fit—even when your go-to shoe gets a makeover.

Don’t hesitate to ask store staff about comparable options, check online for last year’s styles, or reach out to your healthcare provider for advice. We have a more extensive list of shoes by category available in our office.  If you need more advice or require a running gait analysis call our office

 Ready to find your perfect pair? Take what you’ve learned and step confidently into your next shoe shopping adventure—your feet will thank you!


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