A round-up of the best running shoes

For those seeking a massive challenge in 2013, perhaps a marathon or another personal goal, it's essential that you have the right footwear to help you reach your target. Many shoes have different features which can favour different runners, from short-distance sprinters to cross-country hikes, yet the following selection are some of the best on the market right now.

Available from JD Sports, the Nike Lunar Eclipse range provides a lightweight feel thanks to revamped features on the side of the shoe. The extra stability makes effective use of Flywire technology, also giving the balanced shoe more room to breathe. It comes with Lunarlon cushioning, offering the runner enhanced flexibility and providing maximum comfort.

The New Balance Minimus Zero accentuates its lightweight feel with a synthetic mesh that wraps coolly around the arch of the foot, yet allows the runner's toes to breathe as it comfortably opens up. It's a shoe for the efficient jogger, comfortable for long distances only with its reduced width and barefoot feel. The sole is made of lightweight blown rubber, giving an effective bounce to the model.

As one of the very best models out there, the Asics Gel Kayano has a significant reputation to uphold. It provides a consistent performance and helps those who wish to travel long distances, with a highly padded interior, fitting amicably around the rear-foot. Not only does it deliver efficient protection with its well-made interior, but it is also an ounce lighter than previous models of its family.

There are quite a few versions of the renowned Trance model from Brooks, but the Brooks Trance 11 is the ideal model. Its special feature is the foam density used in the shoe's interior, helping each model to adapt to whoever chooses it as their running companion. The arches are more or less flat and the model caters to larger runners who wish to travel greater distances

With a collection of fantastic arch wraps, Saucony PowerGrid Triumph brings the aspect of comfort to an entirely new level. The sole is specially designed as a crashpad, aiding the runner when they bring their foot down to the ground as well as giving them help when they push off again. The upper mesh covers give extra space to breathe and the shoe primarily comes in a luminous design, great for after-dark jogs.