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If you want to buy a good pair of running shoes while on a budget, you definitely have choices.
Be careful to consider these points:
A cheap running shoe will always be a better running shoe than an expensive basketball (or tennis, football, squash…) shoe.
Running is a very specific stride. You go forward, landing somewhere around the heel and rolling all the way through toe-off. Other sports include lateral movements, turns, jumps…
Stick to a running shoe if you plan to run in them!
How the shoe fits, and how comfortable it is on your foot should be your most important consideration.
Good fit for a running shoe means:
You’ll be wearing them for thousands of steps at a time – make sure they fit right!
Cushioning is the capacity of a shoe to absorb (part of) the impact of your body landing on the pavement.
This is definitely one of the things that cheaper running shoe miss compared to their more expensive counterparts. Most budget running shoes have some form of cushioning, but if you are looking for the new super-foams that combine plush with responsiveness – you have to invest more.
If you have unstable ankles, you might need a stability running shoe.
Unfortunately most stability running shoes come at a premium price – but there are some great options such as the Asics GT-1000 series who provide good support in a very affordable package.
Running shoes receive a new model every year (save rare exceptions). For example the Asics Nimbus gets a new model each January and the Nike Pegasus a new model each April.
That means in the weeks before you can snatch them at very substantial discounts.
In every review we link to the previous model – so that you can read if it is the running shoe you are looking for.
There was a time where brands' cheapest running shoe would run you $50-$55.
Those times are gone, and now $70 seems to be the entry price for most running shoes. Shoes at this price point can be rough, but we tested a few of them and selected the three that we deem best.
If you cross train while running a few times a week, this is a great shoe to consider. It can handle your gym routine, your everyday errands, a daily walk, and an easy run all without breaking the bank. If you’re an experienced runner looking for an easy, low mileage day shoe, this could also be a part of your rotation.
If you’re a runner who needs a shoe that can handle tempo, speed, or long runs, then this shoe will not do any of those things. If you consistently run more than 8 miles a day, this might not be the most comfortable shoe for you.
Beginner runners could use this as they are trying out this running thing while experienced runners could use this as an easy day, low mileage run (3-5 miles). This could also be a consideration for the budget conscious runner looking for a shoe that doesn’t have any of the latest technology and can be used for running, the gym, and doing errands.
Any runner looking for a shoe that is cushioned, has a rocker element, or needs a shoe to go beyond 6 miles, this is not the shoe for you.
Duramo 10 gets the job done for low mileage runners, such as 1-4 mile runs a few (or more) times a week. Choose this model if you want a decent running shoe for a low price—$70 USD list price—that is fun to run in and durable enough to get your money’s worth, as well as suitable for the weight room and other activities.
Do not save a few dollars with this option if you need a midfoot that will hold strong against bending in the center when moving through footplant or if you want sufficient cushion for long runs. If you spend most of your time in a hot or humid environment this shoe is probably not breathable enough to keep you comfortable.
At this price point you can find some very interesting shoes. Brands have a little more budget to incorporate better material or even just better manufacturing.
The Saucony Axon 3 is for any runner, it can do all the workouts. At the price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option.
If you are an elite runner training to win races, you probably want a higher-end offering. Otherwise, these are for everyone.
Runners with medium to low arches, little need for extra support in a shoe, and who have a “normal” gait (do not roll too far inward) or who tend to run on the outside of their foot will appreciate the cushion and fit in Gel-Excite. Wear this shoe for most runs training for a half marathon on down; it is a basic, everyday running shoe.
This is not the shoe for runners seeking support or who end up with heavy wear patterns on their soles; if this describes you, check out the Nike Downshifter 12 for a similarly low-priced shoe that will meet your needs. This is not recommended for heavy weekly mileage such as training for a full marathon.
Someone that is looking to really run fast without the assistance of a plate. And also someone that is not willing to break the bank.
If you are planning on racing a full marathon, I would NOT recommend the Hyper Speed 3. There are other options that will protect your legs and your feet for that distance.
At $100 you can find some truly great running shoes. Here are our favorite three.
This shoe is for the individual who is looking for a versatile shoe that can accomplish different goals. They are great for short runs to logging mid-range distances.
They are not for the runner who is looking for a shoe that will help them during those grueling long runs. They work well for runs under 10 miles. I also wouldn’t suggest them for a racing shoe.
A runner looking for a daily trainer that can be used for various activities. My ideal day with these shoes on would be, going for a short run and then right into a cross-training workout. Its overall comfort and stability make it a great choice for those days that you need it to wear more than one hat.
This shoe is not for the runner looking for a shoe that will carry them throughout marathon / ultra-distance training. Although comfortable, it tends to lack responsiveness as the miles go on.
This entry level stability trainer would be ideal for a new runner who needs stability and wants to see if running is for them.
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: Expensive running shoes are generally better than cheaper ones. Materials and construction are better, they can be lighter while being more cushioned.... but be aware of diminishing returns. The difference between a $70 and $100 shoe is bigger than the difference between a $140 and a $170 shoe.
We believe the price around $120-$140 to be where most of the quality goes, before over-spending for marginal increments.
You should know that running shoes get a new version every year. Just before and after a new model is released, brands and retailer will want to clear the previous versions. That's the time to score a premium running shoe for as much as 40% off.
If you want to snatch older version of shoes that are just being released, the best months to do so are July/August and the period between Black Friday and the New Year.