The 22 Best Running Shoes for Beginners
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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the best running shoes for beginners!
As running enthusiasts with years of experience under our belt, we know exactly what it takes to find the perfect pair for those just starting their running journey.
We've tried and tested countless models, and we're ready to reveal our top picks.
Unstoppabl’s Top Picks
Saucony Triumph 20: Supreme comfort and stability for those just starting to hit the pavement
Mizuno Wave Rider 26: Bouncy and flexible, these shoes add a spring to every beginner's step
On Cloudmonster: Plush cushioning meets innovative tech for a comfortable, everyday run
In-depth reviews of top running shoes for beginners
We've tested and reviewed the most comfortable, durable, and affordable running shoes on the market to make your decision easier.
Each of these shoes provides the support and comfort that beginner runners need.
Saucony Triumph 20
- Super-soft PWRRUN+ foam, but lighter and with more pop
- Completely new upper and lacing design
The Saucony Triumph 20 offers beginners a taste of supreme comfort.
They're the perfect long-distance running shoes, providing a balance of cushioning and stability.
These shoes are designed for neutral running, making them ideal for beginners who are still discovering their gait.
PWRRUN+ cushioning: Provides plush, long-lasting responsiveness and cushioning
FormFit: Delivers a custom fit regardless of foot size, shape, or arch
Breathable mesh upper: Offers a comfortable and secure fit
Mizuno wave rider 26
- Designed for high mileage runners with a neutral gait
- Engineered jacquard mesh upper is made from recycled materials and offers superior breathability and durability
- Bio-based Mizuno Enerzy Foam
- X10 outsole is a durable carbon rubber that allows for longer wear to keep you on the roads comfortably
If you're after responsive shoes, the Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a top pick.
These shoes are celebrated for their excellent bounce and flexibility, enhancing your performance with every step.
Wave technology: Delivers stability and a responsive ride.
U4ic midsole: Provides optimal shock absorption, durability, and a superior ride.
Dynamotion fit: This creates an optimal fit with stretch material in the forefoot and a collar construction that prevents the heel collar from buckling under load.
On Cloudmonster
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents throughout
- Cushioned collar and super-soft insole
- Round toe
Designed for everyday runners, On Cloudmonster offers innovative technology and comfort in one package.
They offer a plush feel with their superior cushioning, making every run a comfortable one.
CloudTec® sole: Gives you an unmatched cushioned landing and powerful push-off
Speedboard™: Provides a responsive ride and promotes an efficient running gait
Breathable mesh upper: Ensures a snug, breathable fit
Brooks Ghost 15
- Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the run
- 3D Fit Print to create a more seamless, secure fit
- Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- The new midsole features soft and lighter-weight DNA LOFT V2 cushioning to provide distraction-free cushioning under your feet with each stride
- An integrated system of shock absorbers
- Engineered air mesh upper provides comfort and breathability with 3D Fit Print for added structure
Brooks Ghost 15 is one of the best running shoes for beginners thanks to its durability and reliable cushioning.
No matter your running style or the type of terrain, these shoes will provide the support you need.
BioMoGo DNA midsole: Provides cushioning that dynamically adapts to every stride
Segmented crash pad: Ensures smooth heel-to-toe transition
3D fit print: Uses strategic stretch for a secure fit
New Balance Fresh Foam 680v7
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision-engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Engineered mesh upper allows for breathability
- Upper features no-sew construction for a sleek fit and feel
- Molded insert helps provide extra support
- Rubber outsole for durability and traction
The New Balance Fresh Foam 680v7 is designed for those who like long runs.
Its fresh foam technology provides maximum comfort, making it an excellent choice for beginners. It's like running on a cloud!
Fresh foam midsole: Delivers ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
Double jacquard mesh upper: Provides lightweight breathability and flexibility
Molded footbed: Increases comfort and fit
Allbirds Tree Flyers
- Everyday active shoes are ideal for walking and everyday running
- Thermoregulating breathable material
- Optimized for cushion, stability, and soft impacts
- Machine washable
Are you a conscious consumer looking for eco-friendly running shoes?
Look no further than the Allbirds Tree Flyers.
These shoes are not only kind to the planet but also provide excellent comfort for beginner runners.
Made from renewable materials: Combines eucalyptus tree fiber and merino wool for a lightweight, breathable shoe
Low density foam: Offers comfort, cushioning, and a neutral platform suitable for various foot types
Simple design: Provides a sleek, uncluttered aesthetic suitable for various occasions
Hoka Rincon 3
- Technical mesh upper in Sandwich, breathable and light
- Thin tongue for a reduced weight
- Total compression midsole in Eva which guarantees the exclusive HOKA cushioning
With Hoka Rincon 3, you get to experience effortless running.
These shoes are lightweight and have a cushioned midsole that absorbs shocks, reducing strain on your joints. A top pick for beginners!
Full compression EVA midsole: Provides Hoka's signature cushioning
Early stage Meta-Rocker: Offers a smooth ride
Breathable mesh upper: Provides a lightweight and breathable feel
Nike Pegasus 40
- Waffle-inspired pattern provides traction for the road
- An extra flex groove offers a smooth toe-off
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
- Not intended for use as personal protective equipment (ppe)
When it comes to Nike running shoes for beginners, the Nike Pegasus 40 stands out.
This shoe combines speed, support, and responsiveness, providing a great experience for new runners.
The Air Zoom technology in the sole ensures a fast, springy step to keep you moving.
Zoom air unit: Provides responsive cushioning
Cushlon foam: Offers soft and springy yet responsive cushioning
Flymesh upper: Enhances breathability and comfort
Adidas Supernova+
- 11.2 ounces
- Heel: 32 mm/forefoot: 22 mm
- This shoe's upper is made with a high-performance yarn that contains at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic. The other 50% of the yarn is recycled polyester
The Adidas Supernova+ is another fantastic option for beginners. These shoes offer the perfect blend of comfort and performance.
Their superior cushioning ensures comfort, while the responsive boost midsole gives you a little extra push with each stride.
Versatile cushioning: Offers a plush feel without compromising responsiveness
Flexible outsole: Enhances grip and adaptability on different surfaces
Breathable upper: Promotes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry
Asics Gel-Cumulus 25
- Ff blast plus cushioning: provides lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound
- Puregel technology: helps provide lightweight cushioning and softer landings
- Invisible gore-tex membrane
- Reflective details: designed to help improve visibility in low-light conditions
If you're in search of running shoes with optimal bounce and flexibility, Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 has got you covered.
These shoes, designed for neutral runners, provide excellent cushioning and shock absorption, making them a great choice for beginners.
Gel cushioning system: Reduces shock during impact, allowing for smooth transitions
Impact guidance system: Enhances the foot's natural gait from heel-strike to toe-off
Breathable mesh upper: Helps keep the foot dry and comfortable
Under Armour HOVR Phantom 2
- UA HOVR cushioning reduces impact, returns energy and helps propel you forward
- Sock-like fit & feel Molded midfoot panel for added structure and plush interior cushioning
- Connects to UA MapMyRun
Under Armour's HOVR Phantom 2 offers a 'zero gravity feel' to maintain energy return that helps eliminate impact.
The soft knit upper dries fast and provides a breathable, compression-like fit for lightweight strength and comfort.
UA HOVR technology: Provides 'zero gravity feel' to maintain energy return
Compression mesh energy web: Contains and molds UA HOVR foam to give back the energy you put in
Knit ankle collar: Provides a snug, bootie-like fit
Adidas Ultraboost 22
- Running shoes with a smooth, flexible ride
- Foot-hugging upper that wraps the foot with a supportive fit to enhance movement
- Stretchweb with continental rubber outsole
- Parley ocean plastic
The Adidas Ultraboost 22 is known for its responsive cushioning and high energy return.
It's made with a breathable mesh upper that features zones of support for added stability.
Boost midsole: Offers incredible energy return
Primeknit textile upper: Wraps the foot in adaptive support and ultralight comfort
Stretchweb outsole: Flexes naturally for an energized ride
New Balance 860v12
- Fresh foam x
- Hypoknit upper designed to provide strategic areas of stretch and support
- Bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug supportive fit
The New Balance 860v12 is a reliable choice for beginners.
It's designed with a medial post to help control overpronation and offers responsive cushioning for comfort on runs of any distance.
Dual-density medial post: Helps control pronation
Fresh foam midsole: Delivers a cushioned, lightweight ride
Engineered mesh: Provides lightweight breathability and a supportive fit
Saucony Guide 15
- Hollow-tech gives you the underfoot support you need
The Saucony Guide 15 features a fluid ride and guidance for the mild to moderate overpronator.
It's designed with an engineered mesh upper that offers a dynamic, lightweight fit.
PWRRUN cushioning: Provides a responsive feel
TPU guidance frame: Offers additional stability
Engineered mesh: Enhances breathability and flexibility
Nike Revolution 5
- Revolutionary comfort
- Lightweight knit textile that wraps your foot in breathable material
- Soft foam midsole delivers a smooth, stable ride
- Lightweight knit wraps foot, foam midsole, rubber outsole, plush lining
The Nike Revolution 5 is a versatile shoe that's suitable for a range of activities.
It features soft foam for cushioning and a minimal design for a lightweight, comfortable fit.
Soft foam midsole: Delivers a smooth, stable ride
Textile upper: Offers lightweight comfort and breathability
Rubber outsole: Provides durable traction on a variety of surfaces
ASICS GT-2000 10
- Engineered knit upper: offers a supportive and comfortable foothold
- Rearfoot and forefoot gel technology cushioning system: attenuates shock during impact and toe-off
- The sock liner's sustainable dyeing process helps reduce overall water usage by approx
- Flytefoam technology provides lightweight cushioning
The ASICS GT-2000 10 provides a blend of comfort and stability.
Its DuoMax Support System enhances support and stability, while the gel cushioning systems in the rearfoot and forefoot reduce shock.
Rearfoot and forefoot GEL cushioning systems: Reduces shock during impact and toe-off phases
DuoMax support system: Enhances support and stability
Engineered mesh upper: Ensures a breathable and comfortable fit
Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
- Mizuno enerzy foam is more responsive and has springy qualities
- U4ic midsole delivers optimal shock reduction, durability, and a superior ride
- X10 outsole
- Fan wave plate
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 is built for runners who need moderate support but want a soft and responsive ride.
It features Mizuno's Wave technology that provides a balance of cushioning and stability.
U4ic midsole: Delivers optimal shock reduction, durability, and a superior ride
DynamotionFit: Creates an optimal fit with stretch material in the forefoot and a collar construction that prevents the heel collar from buckling under load
Wave technology: Offers a great balance of cushioning and stability
Altra Torin 5
- Altra Ego Max midsole foam is luxurious and light
- Engineered mesh uppers are light, breathable, and ready for the open road
- Signature altra foot shape toe boxes allow your toes to spread
- Balanced cushioning platform places the heel and forefoot the same distance from the gro
Altra Torin 5 is a perfect beginner shoe with a balanced cushioning platform and foot-shaped toe box.
This setup promotes proper, balanced landing while providing a comfortable fit.
Balanced cushioning platform: Positions the heel and forefoot at an equal distance from the ground to promote proper, low-impact form
FootShape toe box: Allows the toes to relax and spread out naturally
Quantic midsole: Provides a lightweight and responsive ride
Brooks Ghost 14
- Neutral support while providing high-energy cushioning
- Biomogo DNA and DNS loft cushioning work together to provide a just-right
- 3d fit print upper technology provides structure
The Brooks Ghost 14 offers a smooth ride with balanced, soft cushioning.
It's designed with an airy mesh upper and 3D Fit Print that applies strategic stretch and structure for a secure and comfortable fit.
DNA LOFT cushioning: Provides a soft, smooth ride
3D fit print: Applies strategic stretch and structure for a secure fit
Engineered air mesh: Enhances breathability and provides a comfortable fit
Salomon Sonic 4 Balance
- Road running shoes
- Balanced transition
Salomon Sonic 4 Balance delivers a balanced, smooth ride that keeps you going.
Its Optivibe midsole reduces vibrations to limit muscle fatigue, a common issue for long-distance runners.
Optivibe midsole: Combines two different foams to reduce vibrations and decrease muscle fatigue
Engineered mesh: Enhances breathability and quick-drying properties
Geometric decoupling axis: Balances load distribution and ensures a smooth transition
Brooks Glycerin 20
- Quality build
- Lace-up closure, easy to pull on and off
- Built with a durable and flexible rubber outsole
Another excellent running shoe for beginners is the Brooks Glycerin 20.
This shoe provides supreme comfort for long runs, thanks to its plush cushioning and excellent energy return.
On Cloudnova
- Performance mesh
- Rubber sole
- Cushioned collar and footbed, reflective logo details, contrast trim, pull tabs
- Lace-up closure
- Round toe
For those who run daily, On Cloudnova is a great choice.
It combines style and performance, offering great cushioning and a snug fit for your daily runs.
Identifying your foot type and gait
Everyone's feet are unique. Some people have high arches, others have flat feet.
Your gait (the way you walk or run) also differs based on these factors.
So, understanding your foot type and gait is essential to choosing the right running shoes.
Severe overpronation
If you're a severe overpronator, your foot rolls significantly inward with each step.
This can lead to various issues, like flat feet or shin splints.
Asics GT-800 is one of the best beginner running shoes for overpronators, offering stability and support where it's most needed.
Mild overpronation
Mild overpronators need a shoe that offers moderate support.
These runners' feet tend to roll inwards slightly, but not as dramatically as severe overpronators.
Neutral
For those with a neutral gait, your foot lands on the outside of the heel, then rolls slightly inward to absorb impact.
You're one of the lucky ones; most running shoes cater to neutral runners.
The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 is an excellent option, providing a good balance of comfort and support.
Underpronation/supination
Underpronation, or supination, is the opposite of overpronation. Your weight rolls onto the outer edges of your feet.
Underpronators often need shoes with plenty of cushioning to offset this.
The Asics Gel Venture can be your best companion, offering ample cushioning for comfortable running sessions.
Different types of running shoes for beginners
Understanding the different types of running shoes can be a game-changer when you are starting your running journey.
There are typically three types:
Neutral
Stability
Motion control shoes
Neutral shoes offer some shock absorption and some medial (arch-side) support. Stability shoes have a good balance of cushioning and support, while motion control shoes offer features such as stiffer heels to counter overpronation.
What to look for when buying running shoes for beginners
When choosing your first pair of running shoes, there are several factors to consider, including your foot type and gait, the shoe's fit and size, and the different types of running shoes available.
Comfort and fit
One of the most critical features to look for in your first pair of running shoes is comfort.
Your shoes should feel like an extension of your feet. Don't just settle for the size you normally wear in casual or formal shoes; running shoe sizes can differ.
That’s where understanding running shoe sizes comes in handy.
Size considerations
Remember, your feet swell and lengthen during a run, so you might need to go a size bigger than your regular shoes.
An easy rule of thumb is to ensure there's about a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
Material and durability
Running shoes face a lot of impact, roughly three to four times your body weight, every stride you take.
Therefore, they should be made of durable materials to withstand these forces.
In addition, breathable materials such as mesh can provide proper ventilation and contribute to overall comfort.
The right fit and size
Always try on running shoes before buying them.
A good fit is crucial to avoiding injuries and ensuring comfort during your runs.
Consider trying a size larger than your usual shoe size, as your feet can swell during long runs.
Trying on new running shoes
When trying on new running shoes, remember to do so in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest.
Wear the same type of socks that you plan to run in.
Walk around and even jog a bit in the store to ensure they feel right before making a purchase.
The shoes should feel comfortable right away; there shouldn't be a 'break-in' period.
Conclusion
We've come a long way in this guide, exploring various options for the best running shoes for beginners.
Now we want to hear from you…
Which of these shoes caught your eye?
Which features do you value the most as a beginner runner?
Let us know in the comments box below!
The right pair of shoes can make a significant difference in your running experience.
So take the time, make the right choice, and let your fantastic running journey begin with the best running shoes for beginners. Happy running!
