7 Best Cheap Running Shoes For Women in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Cheap Running Shoes For Women in 2023
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You don’t need a huge budget to kickstart your journey as a runner. You only need one dependable pair of shoes, and then step out of the door and run to your heart’s content.

If you’re on the lookout for reliable yet budget-friendly shoes, we’ve rounded up 400+ of the best cheap running shoes for women. We’ve tested all of them and selected our top picks to fit every budget, and recommended top-tier models that cost less than $100.

While these selections may lack the commercial features of the more expensive models, they still deliver on performance, comfort, and the usual benefits you need to achieve your running goals. HEAD on to check our fantastic picks for the best wallet-friendly running shoes available in the market today.

Best overall
Brooks Revel 5 Brooks Revel 5
$100 $66 From Amazon
Best with wide toebox
ASICS GT 2000 10 ASICS GT 2000 10
$100 $50 From Running Warehouse
Best stability
ASICS GT 1000 11 ASICS GT 1000 11
$100 $57 From Amazon
Best cushioning
Adidas Duramo 10 Adidas Duramo 10
$65 $40 From Zappos
Best for long distance
Adidas Questar Adidas Questar
$75 $50 From Designer Shoe Warehouse
Best comfort
ASICS Gel Excite 8 ASICS Gel Excite 8
$75 $49 From Amazon
Best daily trainer
Nike Run Swift 2 Nike Run Swift 2
$125 From Amazon
See all 271 women's cheap running shoes

    How we test running shoes

    To make our best recommendations, we utilize our years of experience as runners, wear-testers, and connoisseurs of running shoes, as well proven methodologies of testing and analyzing various models inside our independent shoe lab.

    We’ve handpicked the cream of the crop based on the following selection process:

    • We purchase all the shoes on this list from our own pocket to avoid bias and brand loyalty.
    • We cut each model into pieces in the lab, and measure 30+ parameters of its essential parts, from the softness of its cushioning, breathability, support, and many more.
    • Our team of wear-testers log 30-40 miles on average of running on each model in different training and racing conditions.
    • We collect more extensive information from other shoe experts and actual feedback from regular users.

    To get the overall rankings of all the women’s cheap running shoes on this list, we use the CoreScore system to make a calculation based on the collected data above. A final rating is assigned to each model ranging from 0 to 100, showing the best of the best.

    Best women's cheap running shoes overall

    Brooks Revel 5 Parts
    Brooks-Revel-5-Features-2
    Brooks-Revel-5-Showoff
    Brooks-Revel-5-Saw
    Brooks-Revel-5-Reveal
    Brooks-Revel-5-Cut-Apart
    Brooks-Revel-5-360
    Brooks Revel 5
    Brooks Revel 5 Side Logo
    Brooks-Revel-5-Running-Side
    Brooks Revel 5 Heel Stack
    Brooks Revel 5 Weight
    Brooks Revel 5 Outsole Thickness
    Brooks Revel 5 Outsole
    Brooks-Revel-5-Running-Angled
    Brooks Revel 5 Upper
    Brooks-Revel-5-Fog
    Brooks Revel 5 Laces
    Brooks-Revel-5-Heel-Loop
    Brooks Revel 5 Heel Tab
    Brooks Revel 5 Freezer
    Brooks-Revel-5-Flex-Test
    Brooks Revel 5
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    An affordable trainer that's got the makings of advanced running shoes? Hello, Brooks Revel 5! It's a smooth and lively jack-of-all-trades that will keep your feet comfy and bouncing. It can push the pace, eat up half-marathon distances, and breeze through your daily runs!

    Pros

    • Fits like a dream
    • Accommodating stretchy upper
    • Efficient transitions
    • Surprisingly peppy
    • Laces stay tied tightly
    • Low to the ground
    • Durable construction
    • Great deal
    • Do-it-all shoe
    • Impressive weight
    • Breathable

    Cons

    • Not for long runs
    • No reflective details
    Full review of Brooks Revel 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    White/Navy/Pink (193)
    Black Blue Pink (067)
    White/Black (121)
    White/Black/Bluebird (103)
    Black Metallic White (036)
    Grey/White/Baton Rouge (033)
    White/Oyster (128)
    Lilac/Ebony/Black (555)
    More colors
    $66
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  

    Best women's cheap running shoes with wide toebox

    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Pieces
    Asics GT 2000 10 Features
    Asics GT 2000 10 Saw
    Asics GT 2000 10 Reveal
    Asics GT 2000 10 Heel Flex
    Asics GT 2000 10 Cut
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Cut
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Midsole
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Heel
    Asics GT 2000 10 Flex
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Freezer
    Asics GT 2000 10 Flex Test
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Weight
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Outsole
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Upper
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Logo
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Pieces%20(2)
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Reflective
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Reflective%20(2)
    Asics%20GT%202000%2010%20Single
    ASICS GT 2000 10
    88
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    ASICS updates their long-running, budget stability shoe and finally moves away from the plastic post design. This shoe is an ideal daily trainer for runners looking to get into the sport who pronate or have flat feet and want a product that’s comfortable, consistent, and lighter on the wallet than competing shoes.

    Pros

    • Lightweight stability shoe
    • Responsive ride
    • Comfortable
    • Wide toe box
    • Good lockdown
    • Durable outsole
    • Price

    Cons

    • Overly padded tongue
    • Thick ankle collar
    • Runs warm
    • Feels a touch long
    Full review of ASICS GT 2000 10

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Sheet Rock/Pink Rave (1012B045020)
    Lake Drive/White (1012B045402)
    Soft Lavender/Black (1012B045500)
    Blue (1012B045400)
    Black/White (1012B045002)
    Sage/White (1012B045300)
    Polar Shade/Mist (1012B264020)
    White/Black (1011B185100)
    More colors
    $50
    See deal  
    $55
    See deal  
    $90
    See deal  
    $95
    See deal  
    $98
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  

    Best stability cheap running shoes for women

    Asics GT 1000 11 outdoor _009
    Asics-GT-1000-11-saw cutting
    Asics GT 1000 11_017
    Asics-GT-1000-11-outdoor 06
    Asics-GT-1000-11-torsion
    Asics GT 1000 11 outdoor _006
    Asics-GT-1000-11-outdoor 08
    Asics GT 1000 11_026
    Asics GT 1000 11 outdoor _011
    Asics-GT-1000-11-outdoor 02
    Asics GT 1000 11_013
    Asics GT 1000 11_015
    Asics GT 1000 11_007
    nike pegasus 40 table
    ASICS GT 1000 11
    85
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The eleventh version of the ASICS GT 1000 is a stability running shoe that's designed for everyday running. It's cheap, but it offers a bang-for-the-buck performance even outside of running. If you're longing for support during your walks and trips downtown, the ASICS GT 1000 11 is an awesome choice.

    Pros

    • Stable ride
    • Unobtrusive for neutral runners
    • Lightweight
    • Comfortable all-day
    • Very affordable price
    • More flexible than before
    • Perfect fit for narrow feet

    Cons

    • Not for wide feet
    • Poor durability
    Full review of ASICS GT 1000 11

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    GLACIER GREY/DIVE BLUE (1012B197021)
    Blue (1012B197400)
    Black/White (1011B354001)
    White/Electric Red (1012B363100)
    Black/Black (1011B356002)
    Black/Orchid (1012B197003)
    Lapis Lazuli Blue/Soft Sky (1012B197401)
    White/Dive Blue (1012B197101)
    More colors
    $57
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  

    Women's cheap running shoes with best cushioning

    Adidas Duramo 10 outdoor_001
    Adidas-Duramo-10-cutting upper 02
    Adidas Duramo 10_017
    Adidas Duramo 10 outdoor_003
    Adidas Duramo 10_022
    Adidas-Duramo-10-outdoor 06
    Adidas-Duramo-10-outdoor 03
    Adidas Duramo 10_026
    Adidas Duramo 10 weight
    Adidas-Duramo-10-outdoor 01
    Adidas Duramo 10_012
    Adidas-Duramo-10-light
    Adidas Duramo 10 outdoor_012
    Adidas Duramo 10 outdoor_013
    Adidas Duramo 10_007
    Adidas Duramo 10 outdoor_004
    Adidas Duramo 10_015
    Adidas Duramo 10
    87
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The Adidas Duramo 10 is a budget running shoe that's great for beginners who want a cushy ride to ease their way into running. With its down-to-earth price, there's nothing down about it when it comes to being an all-rounder. Whether it's for the short or long haul, you can rely on the Duramo 10. And if you want to take it outside of running, it's an excellent pick for walks, casual wear, and gym training.

    Pros

    • Comfy for all-day wear
    • Lightweight for its kind
    • Stable even during sharp turns
    • Breezy on warm days
    • Perfect for beginners
    • Can handle gym training
    • Durable for the price
    • Soft upper
    • Affordable
    • Eco-friendly upper

    Cons

    • Break-in period for wide feet
    • Lacks spring for fast runs
    Full review of Adidas Duramo 10

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black (GX0711)
    Legacy Indigo/Mint Rush/Light Purple (GX0717)
    black/black/almost lime (GX8720)
    ROSA (GW4116)
    Rosa (HP2389)
    Blue Tint Magic Grey Metallic Altered Blue (GX0714)
    Pulse Mint/Zero Metallic (HP2392)
    black/pulse blue/team real magenta (GW4129)
    More colors
    $40
    See deal  
    $40
    See deal  
    $55
    See deal  
    No stock  

    Best women's cheap running shoes for long distance

    adidas questar review
    adidas-questar-cut-in-half
    adidas questar lab test
    adidas-questar-breathability
    adidas-questar-light-transparency
    adidas questar tongue thickness
    adidas-questar-cushioning
    adidas questar cushioning softness
    adidas-questar-flexibility
    adidas questar heel stack
    adidas questar insole
    adidas-questar-ride
    adidas-questar-stability
    adidas questar sole width
    adidas questar lightweight
    adidas questar fit
    adidas questar toebox width
    adidas questar size length
    adidas questar sustainabiliy
    adidas questar price
    adidas questar rubber thickness
    adidas questar outsole rubber firmness
    adidas questar lab measurements
    Adidas Questar
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The Adidas Questar is a road running shoe that's targeted at beginners and casual runners who want a comfortable, easy-pace running shoe. It's plush and soft; it doesn't hurt the feet. Even better, it doesn't hurt the wallet with its price tag. Overall, if you want a versatile running shoe that's perfect for daily runs and long walks, the Questar will do the job.

    Pros

    • Comfy for recovery days
    • Soft upper
    • Lightweight
    • Breathable for summer runs
    • Perfect for beginners
    • Affordable price
    • Upper made with recycled plastic

    Cons

    • A no-no for wide feet
    • Hard to put on for some
    Full review of Adidas Questar

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Bliss Orange Beam Orange Matt Purple Met (GY2250)
    Halo Silver Carbon Light Purple (GZ0608)
    Acid Red Turbo Almost Pink (GZ0612)
    Blue Tint S18 Magic Grey Dash Grey (GZ0617)
    Blue Dawn Ftwr White Blue Fusion (HP2429)
    Ftwbla Plamat Casros (GZ0618)
    schwarz (GZ0631)
    Core Black Blue Fusion Night Met (HP2432)
    More colors
    $50
    See deal  
    $53
    See deal  
    $65
    See deal  
    No stock  

    Women's cheap running shoes with best comfort

    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20standing
    Asics-Gel-Excite-8-Cut-1
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20detail cut
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20outer rear
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20weight
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20lacing
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20sockliner
    Asics-Gel-Excite-8-Run
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20heel stack
    Asics-Gel-Excite-8-Cushion
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20run 1
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20heel counter
    Asics-Gel-Excite-8-Cut-2
    Asics Gel Excite 8_%20outsole
    Asics-Gel-Excite-8-360
    ASICS Gel Excite 8
    86
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The ASICS Gel Excite 8 is the perfect all-around runner for those who want a mixture of an easy training shoe and something that could work for everyday wear. With simplicity at its core, the Gel Excite 8 gets right what it needs to and doesn’t worry about anything else.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Good cushioning
    • Breathable upper
    • Very consistent midsole
    • Reliable grip
    • Good heel lockdown

    Cons

    • Could provide longer laces
    Full review of ASICS Gel Excite 8

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black (1012A916006)
    French Blue/Champagne (1012A916403)
    LAPIS LAZULI BLUE/FRESH ICE (1012A916408)
    Black/White (1012A915002)
    Black/Baltic Jewel (1012A916005)
    Blue / Pink (1012A916409)
    Illuminate Yellow/Pure Silver (1012A916752)
    Digital Aqua/White (1012A916402)
    More colors
    $49
    See deal  
    $60
    See deal  
    No stock  
    No stock  

    Best daily trainer

    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Pieces
    Nike Run Swift 2 360
    Nike Run Swift 2 Saw
    Nike Run Swift 2 Reveal
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Width
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Lacing
    Nike Run Swift 2 Cut
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Cutaway
    Nike Run Swift 2 Flex Test
    Nike Run Swift 2 Flex
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Freezer
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Weight
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Outsole
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Outsole%20Heel
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Upper%20Toe
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Reflective
    Nike%20Run%20Swift%202%20Front%20Angle
    Nike Run Swift 2
    86
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    Budget, comfort, and style are all wrapped into one simple design. The Nike Run Swift 2 is an entry-level shoe with some decent elements and features giving it a much more expensive look and fee.

    Pros

    • Breathable
    • True to size
    • Wide toe box
    • Cushioned tongue
    • Durable outsole
    • Price
    • Gusseted tongue

    Cons

    • Stiff ride
    • Narrow midfoot
    • Heavy
    Full review of Nike Run Swift 2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Sail Black Metallic Copper Coin (CU3528103)
    Black (CU3517004)
    Purple (CU3528600)
    Cave Purple White Canyon Purple Lilac (CU3528501)
    CU3528-001:5 (CU3528001)
    BLACK (CU3528011)
    $125
    See deal  
    No stock  
    No stock  
    No stock  

    Comparison of the 7 best cheap running shoes for women

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    Best
    CoreScore
    Users rating
    Experts
    Best price
    Ranking
    Popularity
    # of colorways
    Author
    Jens Jakob Andersen
    Jens Jakob Andersen

    Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

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