10 Best Running Shoes For Beginners

You’ve decided to start running and the list of questions are mounting, but first among them what are the best running shoes for beginners. This is a broad question with some nuance needed to understand what will best fit your stride, your goals and your fitness. We’ll cover it all here to give you recommendations and guidance.

The significance of choosing appropriate footwear extends beyond mere comfort – it directly influences performance and guards against the risk of injuries.

As an experienced running coach and shoe tester for many, many years, I bring insights into the unique needs of novice runners and the features that can make their running experience not only enjoyable, but safe.

One thing you’ll notice in every review here is my honest feedback on what I like or dislike, but equally important is simply that the best shoe for you is the one that feels good! Don’t be pressured in to a specific brand or stability shoe from one quick analysis at a the running store.

10 Best Running Shoes For Beginners

The great thing about buying running shoes online now is that most places have a pretty awesome return policy. So if you can’t make it to your local running store or you just feel like you “aren’t yet a runner” so you don’t want to go, have no fear.

Remember that many of us try a few different shoes before finding the ones that we truly love. And you’ll notice that many of these shoes are on versions well in to the double digits because people have loved them and simply keep buying them each year.

Onwards to discover the best beginner running shoes for your training!

Best Shoes for Run Walk Run – On CloudMonster 3

Our full review for the On CloudMonster 3 is coming soon. But here’s what we can share from our preview!

We didn’t love the CloudMonster 2 but we’re excited for what’s to come with the newest model.

Now what we really want to know, is the underfoot going to change? With an additional 5mm of cushion and a slight change to the pods, the answer is yes. Take a look at these two images and you’ll see the change from the original to the 3.

The 3 has a triple layer of Cloudtec which should create a softer landing and yet while keeping the Helion foam we shouldn’t lose any of the ability to pick up the pace. This is going to be a key for us because we love that the Cloundmonster can be a single shoe for many athletes that carries them through a lot of paces.

This shoe is probably the closest from On Running to any of the HOKA walking shoes that I recommend. It feels just a bit wider, a bit taller midsole and stable.

The Cloudmonster is a lightweight, robust, and temperature-resistant shoe that will maximize your running performance.

• Heel Drop: 6mm
• Stack: 35mm
• Weight: 10.8 oz men’s, 8.5 oz women’s
• Will be available in wide
• Check it out from on.com for $190, Available March 5, 2026

Note this is not the On Cloudmonster 2, which we also reviewed and do not recommend.

Best Long Run Shoes – New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v15

Listen, I like a good cushioned shoe and this one fits the bill. It’s become one of my go to long run shoes.

I’ve actually gone through 5 pairs of this shoe in the last few years in various models. The rave reviews make complete sense to me as someone who likes a good max cushioned shoe on long run days. The 14 definitely feels a little softer than some previous models, so you aren’t getting that energy return, but lots of cushion.

The base of the shoe is just slightly more flared or wider now, which also adds some stability. That’s a key feature that was lacking when many started shoving more foam into the midsole.

Best Shoes Daily Trainer- Saucony Ride 19

The Saucony Ride is a versatile neutral running shoe that provides a smooth ride for runners. It is designed for runners who want a neutral shoe with moderate cushioning, a responsive ride, and a comfortable fit.

It’s not flashy, it doesn’t have huge selling points, it’s just a trainer that feels pretty nice and will last! 

While it’s not a stability shoe, we’ve always found the Ride to have some elements which inherently make it feel more stable.

You could certainly do some speed work in this shoe, but it’s probably not what we’d reach for on those days. It doesn’t feel fast, but you aren’t held back by mounds of cushion either. Again, it reminds us of what ALL running shoes used to feel like, but with nicer cushion.

Best Shoes for Speed – Hoka Mach 7

When you’re ready to turn on the speed, the Mach is your HOKA of choice. It’s not a carbon fiber shoe, instead it’s a super lightweight shoe designed to spring off the ground and help you find that quick turnover.

The Mach features a lightweight foam midsole that provides a quick, lively feel, while the meta-rocker design helps to encourage a more natural gait.

This shoe is best for runners who are looking for a fast and responsive shoe to take on long-distance races or interval training. BUT that’s not to say this isn’t just a great daily trainer. It is not a carbon plate type speed shoe.

Best Shoes for Mostly Treadmill Running – Brooks Ghost 17

The Brooks Ghost 17 still delivers everything a runner could ask for: just the right amount of cushion in midsole, a durable rubber outsole and a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet feeling comfortable mile after mile.

The change our team is most excited about is in the heel to toe drop.The Ghost 17 is a neutral running shoe now with a 10mm heel to toe drop.

It’s not a huge difference, but if the 12 mm felt too high, you’ll really appreciate this. Plus, the lower drop will make a difference in potentially reducing knee pain or IT Band issues that often pop up with newer runners.If you’re looking for a cushioned neutral shoe to use for running, run/walk intervals, or trying to get those daily 10k steps, the Ghost 17 is going to be a solid pick. 

The Brooks Ghost 17 is a mix between soft and firm, like a shoe that you’d throw on when you want to hit party paces, but you also want to be able to get down to business.

They kept the same DNA Loft v3 foam but added more nitrogen to the heel and forefoot to give a little bit more of a pop and softer feeling underfoot. Now, there’s not enough pop that you’d grab these for a speed workout, or if you’re looking to run something like a fast 5k.

Best All Around Shoe for Beginning Runners – Nike Pegasus 41

The Nike Pegasus is a very popular shoe and has been for a long time. The latest model is no exception, boasting its familiar springy ride, neutral support, and comfort for your arches and toes.

Nike shoes tend to run narrow so even though these don’t have multiple widths, they tend to provide a snug fit for runners. This is not the most narrow of Nike running shoes that I have tried over the years, but again I think that can be a good thing to not create blisters.

The Nike Pegasus has all the bells and whistles that a runner could ask for: just the right amount of cushion in midsole for maximum comfort, durable rubber outsole to withstand, and a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet feeling fresh and dry.

It’s been the go-to shoe for many whether you’re logging easy miles or running marathons. It’s known for its responsiveness thanks to 2 Nike Air Zoom units for an energized feel with each step.

More tips on how to find cheap running shoes (totally know this is often a concern when we start!) >>

Best Lightweight Running Shoe for Beginners – Asics Gel Cumulus 27

Any time a shoe has made it up to version 27 I say something good is happening. That’s a sign that people are coming back again and again for that model, which should give you some comfort.

The outsole is made of rubberized EVA helping to provide a smooth ride. If you’re looking for something that isn’t following the max cushioned trend but still feels good, this is going to be a great option.

Think of the Cumulus as the sibling of the Novablast but just not as much pop. We think that it’ll be great for easy runs, long walks and heading out to run some errands.

An added bonus is it comes in numerous color combinations.

Best Wide Toe box Shoe for Beginners – Topo Cyclone 3

When the toe box is your primary focus, this is a winning daily trainer.

My immediate thought upon picking this shoe up was “holy cow how is it so light?” When that’s the first thing you notice, it’s definitely going to be a fun shoe for some up speed workouts!

When you aren’t looking for a max cushion shoe (because we don’t always need that), but a shoe that’s light and still comfortable for the run, this is a great option. It doesn’t have a massive stack height, which means it is also a bit more stable for a lot of folks.

There is a slight rocker design to it, but I can’t say I noticed this much in my runs. I just thought was a nice sensible daily trainer that was a bit more responsive than a bigger cushion. If you want something for tempo runs, intervals, or even a race day light weight shoe this wide toebox will keep that big toe doing it’s job.

I also like the design of the bottom of the shoe. It provides some good drip so I could take it out on some low tech trails or days where I’m hitting both pavement and trail.

Best Zero Drop Running Shoes for Beginners – Altra Torin 8

The Altra Torin has emerged as a game-changer in the world of running footwear. A zero drop shoe that has enticed many to test out the lower heel drop running life!

As with all Altra shoes, you’ll enjoy the FootShape toe box. Their marketing is that this allows for a more natural foot movement, which is a yes and no. What it absolutely does is provide more room for your toes which can feel amazing AND allows for you to get more power out of that big toe by keeping it straight. Did you know your big toe provides a lot of umph in your stride?

If you’re not used to running in a zero drop shoe, make sure that you ease your way into it. Start out with a few shorter runs and then increase the mileage.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Beginners – Hoka Speedgoat 7

The Speedgoat is often on many of our best of lists because it’s such a great shoe.

This shoe is best for trail runners who are looking for moderate cushion, plenty of protection and grip to cover a variety of terrain and distances. Great trail race day option as well.

It’s not a stability shoe. Instead, the heel base seems wider and they’ve refined the heel collar to hold you better in place. Each time my foot rolled through a rocky section I could tell there was less dipping of my heel than in the 6. It was a glorious feeling and I already know my ankles are going to be much happier. I’d say anyone with Achilles issues will also appreciate it.

The new foam is a little softer, it feels like there’s a bit more in the forefoot which is really comfortable. The shoe remains light, able to pick up the pace, but with even more energy return from this superior foam. It’s not bouncy like a super foam, it’s not crazy plush, it’s just a really perfect amount of foam for a trail shoe!

Obviously I’ve tested a ton of shoes over the years and recommended a LOT in various articles. Many of the ones you see here are recommended from my long runs to most cushioned and beyond. They are tried and tested shoes that are loved by many runners, which makes them a great place to start in finding the best beginner runner shoes for you.

A few more common questions I’ve gotten around shoes!

What To Look For In Beginner Running Shoes?

Do beginners need something different than experienced runners? Not inherently, no. They don’t yet need to worry about race day shoes or carbon plates, but do need to understand that footwear is worth the cost.

If budgets are tight, don’t worry about the GPS watch or the dry fit shirts, start with what you’re putting on your feet. This is going to make the runs feel better and ensure you aren’t soon sidelined with an injury from a cheap shoe that wasn’t providing the support you need.

Here are the key things we evaluated in selecting these shoes:

• Cushion – let’s face it, a great cushion just makes the run feel better
• Stability – while I don’t often recommend stability shoes, they can be very helpful starting out when you may have weaker hips and glutes that aren’t keeping your knees aligned
• Support – quality running shoes are going to provide your foot and arch with more support to move through the miles than a cheaper pair of shoes
• Durability – you might pay more for what you find in a running store than a  department store, but they should last you longer as well

How Should Running Shoes Fit?

Fit is a key aspect of finding the right running shoe!!

Assume that you are going to want up to a full size bigger than your normal shoes. I started out in a 9.5 in 2002 and quickly moved to wearing size 11 as I started marathon training.

My feet didn’t grow, but while you run they do swell AND we want more room for the toes to prevent things like black toenails.

I’ve got a complete article on how to tell if running shoes fit properly that you should absolutely read. This is also going to help take in to account if you have an issue like bunions or flat feet.

Should Beginner Runners Wear Stability Shoes?

It’s not the worst idea. As noted above, I really love to get most people in to a neutral running shoe if possible because that won’t mask any underlying weakness in the hips, glutes or ankles.

However, on day one you’re trying to get the body used to the impact of this new activity while building strength so it’s not bad to have some extra support.

The key is to ensure you are doing the strength work and try rotating in a neutral shoe to your routine as soon as you can.

How Much Should I Spend on My First Pair of Running Shoes?

At this point, a good pair of running shoes is going to be between $130-$150 when buying this years model.

Those shoes should last you roughly 500 miles. That means if you’re running 3 days per week at 3 miles, that single pair would last you the entire year. Of course, we recommend that you rotate running shoes which will make them last longer, especially as you increase your runs.

AND make sure that you are NOT wearing your running shoes for other workouts.

Find out why you shouldn’t wear your running shoes casually >>

What to read next?

• 4 Hour Marathon Training Plan and Training Tips
• Best Marathon Shoes for Beginners Who Just Want to Finish Strong
• Free 10 Mile Training Plan Beginner and Intermediate

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