Tips for Finding the Best Budget Running Shoes

Running shoes can be bought very cheaply these days, but that doesn’t mean they’re all good.

We’ve looked at the best budget running shoes on the market, including our current favorites, as well as a few cheap alternatives.

Finding the right pair of running shoes is difficult. There are hundreds of choices to choose from, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons.

You need to find a pair that fits your foot perfectly and also delivers comfort, performance, and style in equal measure.

Here’s our list of the 7 budget running shoes for men and women.

Related: Best 5k Running Shoes

Do best budget running shoes make a difference?

Tips for Finding the Best Budget Running Shoes

Budget running shoes are very important because they help your feet to stay in shape and it can prevent you from getting injured.

When buying budget running shoes, make sure that the brand is good enough for you.

If you have a wide foot, then go for wider ones so that there is no chance of your toes touching the end of the shoe when running.

The best thing about these shoes is that they come in different colors and designs so that you can choose which one suits you better.

Editor’s Pick: 7 Best Budget Running Shoes

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Here are the 7 best budget running shoes buying guide and review in 2022

1. ASICS Women’s Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoe

ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoes, 8, Black/Rose Gold

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There are a few things that you can count on once you’ve adopted the ASICS lifestyle. First, it’s going to be hot and humid, then unexpectedly cool and crisp.

Secondly, you’re going to want to run more than you normally do. And third, you’re going to want the very best shoes for running and training.

The only problem is that there are a lot of choices when it comes to running shoes, so it’s hard to know which ones are worth your feet.

This winter, be ready for your daily run with the ASICS Gel-Excite 7. This women’s running shoe is cut from a tough and flexible mesh that feels like no other.

Plus, the ASICS Gel-Excite 7’s innovative upper design delivers the support of a contoured sports shoe with the breathability of a lightweight running sock.

Stop second-guessing, stop thinking about what your feet need, and stop having to decide between cold feet or sweaty feet because the Ortholite X-40 Sockliner has got you covered with a stylish sneaker that’ll add a touch of style to your everyday wardrobe.

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Jacquard Mesh Upper
  • AmpliFoam Midsole for natural running
  • Ortholite X-40 Sockliner features higher rebound properties

Pros:

  • The ASICS name is synonymous with quality
  • Designed for the elite female runner
  • These shoes will not let you down

Related: 7 Best Asics Trail Running Shoes

2. Saucony Men’s Versafoam Cohesion Tr 12 Road Running Shoe

Saucony Men's Versafoam Cohesion 12 Road Running Shoe, grey/blue, 11 W US

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9.1
Expert Score
Light weight9.5
 
Stability9.5
 
For working out8.2
 

If you’re looking for the perfect running shoe, take a look at the Saucony men’s Cohesion 12 road running shoe.

This running shoe has been engineered with a gender-specific fit to meet your needs, and it has a new technology for optimal cushioning and toe protection.

There is a wide variety of sizes so you can find the correct fit for your feet.

If you’re looking for a shoe that can really do it all, look no further than the Versafoam Cohesion Tr 12 by Saucony.

Not only is this shoe water-resistant and even waterproof, it’s also made from a lightweight mesh upper which is perfect for sweaty days out on the streets.

That’s right, you heard that right. And they’re so amazing, they’re on their way to the Moon!

While they are no doubt the most popular shoe out there, they may still seem like a crazy idea. But it’s not as crazy as you think.

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Offset: 12mm Heel Stack Height: 29mm
  • VERSAFOAM cushioning
  • Rubber outsole, imported and neutral protection

 

Pros:

  • Durable rubber outsole
  • Comfortable on both the heel and forefoot
  • Great for your toughest workouts

3. Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe

Brooks Men's Ghost 13, Primer Grey/Pearl/Black, 12 Medium

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9.5
Expert Score
Light weight9.7
 
Comfort9.5
 
Durability9.5
 
9.5
 
Stability9.4
 

The Ghost 13 is a shoe that’s ideal for marathon training or everyday use. These shoes use a lightweight and breathable mesh upper that’s flexible and comfortable right out of the box.

In addition, the new Ghost line features a more streamlined toe shape that allows runners to feel the ground beneath their feet. The Ghost 13 will help you to run faster with less fatigue.

Wearing Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe, you’ll feel more energized and motivated to conquer your running goals.

The seamless biomechanical upper provides a glove-like fit and keeps your foot stable and secure as you run.

The cushioning technology responds to your foot’s every motion giving you the perfect amount of energy to push yourself that much further.

Brooks has mastered the art of bringing innovative and high-quality technology to the world of running shoes and knows what women want in a good shoe.

Their Ghost sneaker is one of their top-selling models, and you can see why with its fashionable, comfortable, lightweight design and supportive sole.

 

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Improved transitions
  • The neutral support type
  • Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe

Pros:

  • Innovative running shoe in years
  • Lightweight design and supportive sole
  • Responsiveness with this great an amount of support

4. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker, Lead/Light Aluminum, 11 M US

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9.6
Expert Score
Light weight9.8
 
Comfort9.5
 
Support9.4
 
For working out9.5
 

The All-Terrain Foam Roav V1 sneaker may not be doing anything particularly new, but that doesn’t mean it’s a lack of freshness in design.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 is a perfect example of the deconstructed athletic sneakers that have been floating around the streetwear scene for some time.

The fusion of style and comfort really makes these a wonderful piece to add to your rotation.

In this athletic shoe, Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision-engineered to deliver an ultra-cushion portable fit, with a sock-like feel for men and women.

In fact, the technology was so successful that the company introduced it on other lines just last year. Yes, you can walk around feeling like you’re running or walking in the clouds.

It’s no secret that New Balance is one of the top brands for shoes in the world. You’ll be able to work out in comfort while keeping your feet warm, dry, and protected with Ndurance rubber outsole technology.

You’ll be able to get all of the benefits of your usual New Balance sneaker without paying for a new pair.

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Imported & Synthetic sole
  • Ndurance rubber outsole technology
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning

Pros:

  • Delivers an ultra-cushioned ride
  • The ultimate in casual athletic style
  • Superior durability in high-wear areas

5. Adidas Men’s Supernova

adidas Men's Supernova Running Shoe, Sonic Ink/White/Signal Green, 13

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You may have already heard about the brand Adidas before. These are the shoes that have helped make so many champions! They have won all the major events, even in the Olympics!

Adidas, women’s sneaker brand, is all about style, comfort, and performance. Their shoes are designed to be perfectly designed for women and men around the world.

It’s no wonder the Adidas Supernova is a popular choice among runners and skaters. The Adidas Supernova has it all: Super fabric lining, glass lens, traction, durability, comfort, and style.

We love the fresh look that they give off. They are a nice classic sneaker with a refreshing new vibe.

No other brand exemplifies the personal branding of an individual today than Adidas.

Whether you are an athlete or not, ownership of this brand will be a badge of honor that you can wear proudly in your everyday life.

Whether it’s the iconic Supernova lifestyle sneaker or the legendary Adizero soccer cleat; these shoes are the epitome of what is known as “personal branding” that has been driven by sports science expertise from the beginning.

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Mesh running sustainable frame
  • Glass lens & fabric lining feature
  • Deep-rooted connection with sport

Pros:

  • You enjoy when you run
  • Right support to keep your feet from rolling out
  • They do well for lifting

6. Nike Men’s Revolution 5 Wide Running Shoe

Nike Women's Revolution 5 Running Shoe, Black/White-Anthracite, 9 Regular US

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9.2
Expert Score
Light weight9.5
 
Comfort9.3
 
Stretch9.2
 
For working out9.2
 
Value for money8.9

This is the sneaker where you can literally run in comfort and style. The Nike Revolution 5 men’s running shoe has no major distractions, just a clean, minimal silhouette that fits in just about anywhere your day takes you.

You’ll love the comfort of its flexible 100% synthetic upper & minimalist design for a flexible fit. Plus, this shoe is built with an ultra-soft foam midsole for maximum comfort and support.

Men’s Nike Revolution 5 without which men could find themselves in a dire situation. Not only that, it is one of the best products you can buy today.

Everyone who is looking for a great product can go with this bestseller. It’s amazing to see how well the product is done by its creator.

Furthermore, the Nike Revolution 5 running shoes are made up of premium materials such as man-made sole, soft foam midsole and textured outer wall.

Don’t let anything hold you back from living your dream! When it comes to running, there’s no place like the streets.

With these revolutionary shoes, you can go up to 15 percent faster than normal, and that’s just the beginning.

Get serious about your training now with Nike Men’s Revolution 5 shoes and find out just how fast obstacles can be conquered!

KEY-FEATURES:

  • Lightweight knit textile minimalist design
  • An aerodynamic heel
  • Soft foam midsole

Pros:

  • Increases the foot’s natural range of motion
  • Improves your running form
  • Helps you run faster, more efficiently

7. Brooks Ghost 14 Men’s Neutral Running Shoe

Brooks Men's Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe Grey/Alloy/Oyster 11 D - Medium

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9.5
Expert Score
Light weight9.7
 
For working out9.6
 
Support9.5
 
Comfort9.5
 
Durability9.5
 
Value for money9.1
 

Picking the right shoes is more of a personal choice. What works for one person won’t work for another.

That’s why you’re going to be able to get the greatest results from picking Brooks Ghost 14 from the official website.

It’s a high-quality men’s shoe, so don’t hesitate to try it out and see if it’s the right fit for you.

The product description features the men’s shoe with a simplified midsole construction to create more seamless transitions.

The 3D Fit Print upper technology will provide you with a structure that moves with the foot.

A running shoe can’t be comfortable if it doesn’t fit properly. If you buy shoes with the wrong width, they’ll still be okay, but they might not support your feet properly and you’ll end up with a sore arch and a lot of discomforts.

And what better way to make your next run successful than to invest in the Brooks Ghost 14?

KEY-FEATURES:

  • A certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe
  • BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning
  • The 3D Fit Print upper technology

Pros:

  • Energized experience with responsive and springy feature
  • Will give extra speed to your stride
  • Soft and protective cushion

What are some good affordable running shoes?

To choose the budget running shoes, you need to consider your budget and fitness level. The shoe that suits you best depend on what type of activities you are planning to do with it.

If you are looking for a running shoe that is suitable for walking, there are many options available in the market such as ASICS, Mizuno and Nike, etc.

But if you have some specific purpose in mind, then I would suggest going for a more expensive option like New Balance or Brooks.

What are the side effects of choosing unbalanced running shoes?

Tips for Finding the Best Budget Running Shoes

Running shoes are an investment that you need to make and this is the reason why it is important to know what type of shoe will be best for your feet.

Shoes with a heel raise can cause problems like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, knee pain and back pain.

A higher heel also increases your center of gravity, which can lead to instability. You should look for a shoe that has good cushioning, but not too much because this can create unnecessary stress on your joints.

Can you run in cheap shoes?

Can you run in cheap shoes?

There are two types of running shoes- formal shoes and casual shoes; in case you’re thinking about formal wear, then there’s no doubt that Nike or Adidas would be the best choice as they are both very popular brands among runners worldwide.

The only thing that I want to say here is- Don’t go by trends alone when choosing a pair of running shoes.

Remember it’s all about quality and comfort. Look at the various factors like brand name, durability, reviews, etc before buying one.

Running in shoes is a sport that requires you to have good grip and balance. For this reason, the shoes should be of good quality.

You also need to get used to running in new shoes because if you run for too long without changing your shoes, your feet can start hurting.

So basically, it depends on what type of shoe you are going to use. If you are using expensive running shoes, then yes you can run in them, but if they are cheap ones, then I would not recommend it.

Conclusion

There are many things that make budget running shoes better than expensive ones.

One of them is comfort. Best budget running shoes that are made for your specific feet and style can be very comfortable.

The design will also determine how well they support your feet, making it possible to run faster and more comfortably while wearing them.

There is no need to buy new running shoes every year because the quality of the budget running shoes will stay the same, unlike expensive brands which have a shorter lifespan.

References

Expensive Running Shoes Are Not Better Than More Affordable Running Shoes (Study): https://runrepeat.com/expensive-running-shoes-are-not-better-than-more-affordable-running-shoes-study

The beginner’s guide to every type of running shoe: https://runningmagazine.ca/sections/gear/the-beginners-guide-to-every-type-of-running-shoe/

Hi, I'm Golam Azam, founder of shoebuyingguide.com. I have completed my Bachelor's degree in Leather and Footwear Engineering. After that, I have decided to help people by keeping their feet healthy with the exact information on footwear. Now I have started my own blog about all kinds of shoes. Just like you, I also love to research shoes in my spare time. I share my knowledge with shoe lovers on this site.

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