Running involves your feet pounding the ground for the number of miles you will be travelling. Therefore, you need a shoe that will offer comfort and lower the risk of injury. Ideally, the shoe should have an upper that fits you like a glove and a sole that offers you enough cushioning while allowing the natural movement of the shoe.
The market is awash with running shoes of different types, characteristics and price levels. We shall explore the top picks for various budgets to aid you in making the right choice.
Best Running Shoes at Low Budgets
Here are two top picks for a tight budget.
Nike Winflo 10
If you are a regular runner who loves a lightweight, springy and speedy feel while splitting, the Nike Winflo is a great budget choice for you. It features a full-length air pocket that gives you some good cushioning. While it does not give the best cushioning in the market, it has a better-than-normal plush ride.
The shoe also has a waffle rubber outsole that gives you great traction in wet and slippery conditions. Its tapered design ensures that the upper snugs around your feet at each step. We like its neutral arch support, durable outsole, lightweight and cushioned feel. However, the upper is hard to clean. The shoe costs about $100.
Adidas Duramo SL Running Shoe
The Adidas Duramo SL is super lightweight. It features a Lightmotion midsole that is lightly cushioned and responsive. This gives you amazing energy returns as you spring forward. The outsole is also durable and has a linear pattern for maximum stability and grip.
Its upper is made of breathable, airy mesh that enhances air circulation and keeps your feet cool. The shoe has a neutral colour and classic style that works with any workout outfit. We love the shoe for its light and springy feel, durable outsole and breathable upper. However, the shoe is not great for technical trails and is not waterproof. It will cost you around $70.
The Best Running Shoes for Medium Budgets
If you have some more cash to spend on a good running shoe, here are some brands you may consider.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13
New Balance has a simple running shoe design. It is lightweight and snugs comfortably around your feet. The brand gives both half sizes and width options so that you are able to get a shoe that fits just right.
We found the cushioning very comfortable without going over the top or being too bulky. Since we picked the right size, the toe box felt roomy and was not restricted. This shoe is ideal for users who suffer from Morton’s neuroma and overpronation, as they are able to run longer without discomfort or irritation.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13 costs about $139.95. The only downside we found is that it has limited mid-foot support and the brand looks more like an exercise shoe.
Nike Pegasus 40
The Nike Pegasus 40 is a great choice for running beginners who are not sure what type of support or fit they need. It balances support and cushioning, making it more forgiving for different arch sizes. The upper is made of mesh material, which provides comfort and breathability, especially in hot weather.
This shoe is also stylish and lightweight and comes with an assortment of colours to meet your aesthetic preference. If your feet are sweaty, it still works fine with a thick pair of socks. Nike also offers great support and does not need to be broken into like most new shoes.
This pair costs about $130. We love its stability, comfort and support. However, the bottom wears out fast and the shoe gets dirty rather quickly.
The Best Running Shoes for Splash Budgets
If you have some cash to splash on a good running shoe, you may pick one of these two:
Saucony Peregrine 13
Peregrine 13 has received celebrity status for being lightweight and nimble and offering enough cushioning for the most unforgiving terrains. This shoe is ideal for any outdoor runner, especially those running on unbeaten paths.
The shoe has great traction for stability in varying weather conditions. It also has a responsive midsole to propel your feet. For extra protection, the brand has added a rock plate and offers balanced cushioning.
The shoe costs about $150. We love medium cushioning, greater stability and medium flexibility. However, it is not ideal for pavement running and has a narrow toe box.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Stability is vital in running, especially on trails. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 provides reliable stability training by offering a good blend of various characteristics. It offers medium cushioning that is responsive to spring you forward with ease.
The shoe has a stable outsole that offers maximum traction. It uses a GuideRails adaptive stability system that offers just the right amount of support when you need it. This shoe has medium flexibility to support each step along the way. The upper is made of mesh for increased breathability and has no overlays to prevent irritation.
You can buy the shoe for about $145. We love its balanced feel, stability, durability and support. The only downside is its 12mm drop.
Takeaway
There are amazing running shoes for any budget. Therefore, there is no reason to avoid your favourite exercise due to the shoe cost. Our team believes that runners need shoes that prevent foot injuries and offer comfort and stability in varying terrain. For that reason, we have selected brands that offer better foot support and stability across different price levels. Pick the best brands according to your needs and budget.