2026 Running Shoe Releases for Perth Runners: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28, Hoka Mach 7, Nike Pegasus 42 & More
The best running shoes in Australia for 2026: what’s new
Shopping for the best running shoes in Australia for 2026 can feel like a lot. Every big brand has dropped a new version of its bestseller this year, and the numbers on the box (stack, drop, foam names) don’t mean much until you know what you actually need.
This guide rounds up five of the biggest 2026 releases now in Australian stores: the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28, Hoka Mach 7, Nike Pegasus 42, Brooks Ghost 18 and Saucony Endorphin Elite 3. We’ve pulled together the specs, Australian prices and what independent testers say, then looked at how each one suits running in Perth.
Information checked October 2026. Prices are what we found at Australian retailers at the time of checking and change often, especially during sales.
How to read running shoe specs (the quick version)
- Stack height: how much foam is under your heel and forefoot, in millimetres. Higher stack usually means more cushioning.
- Drop (offset): the difference between heel and forefoot height. Most daily trainers sit between 5mm and 10mm.
- Weight: usually quoted for a men’s size 9 to 10. Lighter shoes tend to feel quicker; heavier ones often last longer.
- Neutral vs stability: all five shoes in this guide are neutral, meaning they don’t have extra support built in to control how your foot rolls inward.
The best shoe is still the one that feels comfortable on your foot. If you can, try a pair on in-store and jog a few steps before you buy.
Fit tips before you buy
- Shop later in the day. Feet swell a little over the day and during runs, especially in summer.
- Leave a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
- Bring your usual running socks so the fit matches what you’ll actually wear.
- Ask about wide fits. The GEL-Nimbus 28 comes in a 2E wide version for men at some Australian retailers, and other models offer wide options too.
2026 running shoe releases compared
| Shoe | Best for | Key specs | AU price (checked Oct 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 | Easy and long runs, max comfort | 281g, 43.5/35.5mm stack, 8mm drop | $280 |
| Hoka Mach 7 | Light daily trainer, easy to uptempo | About 235g, 37/32mm stack, 5mm drop | $249.99 |
| Nike Pegasus 42 | Reliable all-rounder, durability | 305g, 37/27mm stack, 10mm drop | $220 |
| Brooks Ghost 18 | Soft, steady daily miles | 289g, 36/26mm stack, 10mm drop | $259.95 |
| Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 | Race day, 5km to marathon | 224g, 39.5/31.5mm stack, 8mm drop, carbon plate | $420 |
Weights are for a men’s size as quoted by the retailer or reviewer. Women’s versions are usually a little lighter.
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 review roundup
The GEL-Nimbus 28 is ASICS’s most cushioned neutral road shoe, released in January 2026. ASICS Australia lists it at $280, with FF BLAST PLUS foam and PureGEL in the heel, aimed at “every day, easy runs” and longer distances.
- Specs: 281g, 43.5mm heel and 35.5mm forefoot stack, 8mm drop.
- What’s new: Woman & Home’s tester found it “noticeably softer and lighter” than the Nimbus 27.
- Watch out for: it’s not built for speed work, and the high stack can feel awkward if you also want a shoe for walking around.
Verdict: a strong choice if your running is mostly easy, steady kilometres and you want maximum comfort, including for beginners building up to 10km or a half marathon.
Hoka Mach 7 review roundup
The Hoka Mach 7 landed in Australia in March 2026. It’s a lightweight daily trainer with a supercritical EVA midsole, listed at $249.99 by The Running Company.
- Specs: about 235g, 37mm heel and 32mm forefoot stack, 5mm drop.
- What’s new: mainly a stickier, grippier outsole. The Run Testers say the rest is very similar to the Mach 6.
- Watch out for: because the update is small, a discounted Mach 6 can be better value if you can find your size.
Verdict: a versatile, light shoe that handles easy runs and quicker sessions. A good pick if you want one pair that can do a bit of everything.
Nike Pegasus 42 review roundup
The Pegasus is Nike’s long-running everyday trainer. The 42 was released in April 2026 and is listed at $220 by Australian retailer Active Feet, making it the cheapest shoe in this roundup.
- Specs: 305g, 37mm heel and 27mm forefoot stack, 10mm drop, ReactX foam with a full-length Air Zoom unit.
- What’s new: the bigger Air Zoom unit gives a smoother, more responsive ride than the 41, and the forefoot is roomier.
- Watch out for: Tom’s Guide found it less cushioned and heavier than some rivals, and not very exciting at faster paces.
Verdict: a dependable, durable shoe for new runners and Pegasus fans. It also doubles as a gym or everyday shoe.
Brooks Ghost 18 review roundup
The Ghost is one of the most popular neutral trainers around. The Ghost 18 arrived in May 2026 and is listed at $259.95 by The Running Company.
- Specs: 289g, 36mm heel and 26mm forefoot stack, 10mm drop, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam.
- Value tip: older and newer versions are often on sale at the same time. If the fit hasn’t changed much, the Ghost 17 can be the smarter buy.
Verdict: a soft, predictable daily trainer for runners who want a shoe that just works, run after run.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 review roundup
The Endorphin Elite 3 is Saucony’s carbon-plated race shoe, released in June 2026. Active Feet lists it at $420, so this is a race-day purchase rather than an everyday one.
- Specs: 224g, 39.5mm heel and 31.5mm forefoot stack, 8mm drop, incrediRUN superfoam and a carbon plate.
- What testers say: The Running Channel called it “the most comfortable super shoe that’s on the market right now” but noted reduced stability on corners and early signs of wear on the soft foam.
Verdict: worth a look if you’re training for the Perth Marathon or a fast half and want a soft, bouncy race shoe. Most social and beginner runners don’t need it.
Which 2026 running shoe suits Perth runners?
Perth’s long, hot summers and mix of footpaths, coastal paths and park trails shape what works here.
Running in Perth’s heat
Perth Metro’s average January maximum is 31.4°C, with around seven to eight days of 35°C or more in both January and February, according to Bureau of Meteorology climate statistics. In summer, look for a breathable knit or mesh upper and pair it with thin, moisture-wicking socks. Most of Perth’s run clubs head out early for good reason.
Coastal paths and park trails
All five shoes are road shoes. They’re fine on the Swan River foreshore, the coastal path from Cottesloe to Scarborough and the sealed paths in Kings Park. For the sandy, rocky single track in Bold Park, Kalamunda or the Perth Hills, a dedicated trail shoe with deeper lugs will give you better grip.
Quick picks
- Beginner on a budget: Nike Pegasus 42.
- Most comfortable for long, easy runs: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28.
- One shoe for easy runs and speed sessions: Hoka Mach 7.
- Soft, no-fuss daily trainer: Brooks Ghost 18.
- Race day: Saucony Endorphin Elite 3.
Budget tip: last year’s versions (Nimbus 27, Mach 6, Pegasus 41, Ghost 17) are often discounted once a new model arrives. Check the fit, as sizing can shift between versions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best running shoe for beginners in Australia in 2026?
There’s no single best shoe, but a well-cushioned neutral trainer suits most beginners. The Nike Pegasus 42 is the most affordable of the 2026 releases in this guide, while the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 and Brooks Ghost 18 offer more cushioning at a higher price.
How much should I spend on running shoes in Australia?
New-release daily trainers in this guide range from $220 to $280, and carbon-plated race shoes can cost $400 or more. Previous-season models are often much cheaper and can be just as good.
Is the Hoka Mach 7 worth upgrading from the Mach 6?
Reviewers say the main change is a grippier outsole, and the rest of the shoe is very similar. If your Mach 6 is worn out and you can find it discounted, it may be the better buy.
Do I need a carbon-plated shoe?
Not for most running. Carbon-plated shoes like the Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 are designed for racing and fast sessions. Social runs, parkrun and everyday training are well served by a regular daily trainer.
How often should I replace running shoes?
It depends on how much you run, your weight and the surfaces you run on. Replace them when the cushioning feels flat, the outsole is worn smooth, or you start to notice new aches. If you develop knee or shin pain, see a physio or GP.
Find your next pair
New shoes are more fun with people to run in them with. Browse our picks of running shoes and summer gear in the Perth Running Clubs shop, then find a free, friendly group near you in our Perth run club directory. For more gear and training tips, head to our runners’ guides.