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!