7 Best Running Shoes For Beginners, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

They say great things come from small beginnings. That said, don't confuse "small beginnings" for a rough start. No, you can be in your best form as a freshman if you sport the finest running shoes for beginners.
We've tested over a dozen remarkable entry-level running shoes for your perusal. So, whether you're fancying a budget-friendly pair or you're looking for something mighty formidable on the trail, this beginner-friendly selection is for you.
How we test running shoes
Assembling such an impressive selection as this is not actually a walk in the park. We do follow a set of principles, after all. To give you a clearer idea, take a look at our approach:
- We purchase beginner-friendly running shoes with our own money.
- We run in these kicks for several miles to check their comfort level, general performance (including grip), and durability.
- Our lab experts run them through a series of tests to gauge their rebound rate and breathability, among others.
- Our reviews on the best running shoes for beginners reflect opinions from hundreds of footwear critics and entry-level runners.
Combined, these elements result in what we call a CoreScore. Every reviewed kick gets one, ranging from 0 to 100. Our selection process makes use of this scoring system to help us come up with a shortlist of top picks.
Best running shoes for beginners overall
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 2% in road running shoes
- Top 4% in Saucony running shoes
- Top 12% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Light for a maximal shoe
- Comfy and secure upper
- Softer than before
- Surprisingly stable
- Very versatile
- Protective underfoot
- Above average durability
- Doubles as a sneaker
Cons
- Very big
- Not for wide feet
Verdict
Best road for beginners running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 2% in road running shoes
- Top 8% in Brooks running shoes
Pros
- All about comfort!
- True to size
- Lots of padding
- Smooth ride
- Really stable, even on light trails
- Breathable
- Great out of the box
- Built for longevity (500 miles, easily)
- Great grip
Cons
- Lacks breathability for hot summer days
- Not the best for long distances
Verdict
Best trail for beginners running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 10% in trail running shoes
- Top 4% in Nike running shoes
- Top 3% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Efficient road-to-trail
- Well-cushioned
- Stable ride
- Excellent, secure fit
- Very breathable
- Great traction
- Unexpectedly light
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not for muddy areas
- Not for wide feet
- Could be more stylish
Verdict
Best Nike for beginners running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 16% in trail running shoes
- Top 12% in Nike running shoes
- Top 4% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Soft, bouncy ride
- Very comfortable
- True to size
- Wide for a Nike
- Wide loop on heel
- Built to last
- Reflective swoosh
- Killer grip on dry trails
Cons
- Not grippy in wet
- Runs warm
Verdict
Best ASICS for beginners running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 6% in road running shoes
- Top 5% in ASICS running shoes
- Top 9% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Cushy ride for long miles
- Comfy foot wrap
- Stable on sharp turns
- Lighter than before
- Durable
- Snug fit
- Eco-friendly upper
- Grippy on wet and dry pavement
- Bites well on light trails
- Great for newbies
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Runs warm
- Pricier than most daily trainers
Verdict
Best value running shoes for beginners
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn more- Top 11% in road running shoes
- Top 10% in ASICS running shoes
- Top 6% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Good heel lock
- Stable
- A fair amount of cushioning
- Value for money
- Durable, grippy outsole
- Guidance line keeps the foot steady
Cons
- Rubber outsole is squeaky
- Not comfortable on longer runs
- Inefficient arch support
Verdict
Most popular running shoes for beginners
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 6% in road running shoes
- Top 15% in Brooks running shoes
- Top 1% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Promising durability
- Stability for all directions
- Improved aesthetics
- Phenomenal grip
- A firmer, faster midsole
- Consistent in all conditions
- Reliable daily runner
Cons
- Very heavy
- High price point for stability aimed at beginners
- Midsole is too hard for some