7 Best Running Shoes For Beginners in 2023
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Why trust us
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
ASICS Novablast 3
91
Superb!
What makes it the best?
It's a comfy daily running shoe. It can go fast. It can go far. In the words of an expert, the Novablast 3 from ASICS "sets the standard for what a daily trainer should be." What's more, you can race in it in your next marathon too. Talk about versatility! And if you want a light shoe that won't drag you down, the ASICS Novablast 3 is the all-rounder you need.
Pros
- Super bouncy
- Cushy feel for miles
- Breathable
- Light AF
- Ready for cornering
- Locks you in
- Tongue stays in place
- Grippy outsole
- Mad durable
- Sets the bar for a do-it-all shoe
Cons
- A tad too long
- More expensive by $10
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$140
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$140
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$140
REI
Free shipping
$140
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$140
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$140
Best running shoes for beginners for trail
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
88
Great!
What makes it the best?
The Pegasus road series just holds a special place in many runners' hearts (feet?), and now it is ready for some trail action too. The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 has won many people over with its uber-plush landings as well as the cloud-like comfort and stability. As long as you stay away from slick surfaces, it is an excellent option.
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$46
Stadium Goods
$85
Fleet Feet
$98
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$100
Nike
$110
Best running shoes for beginners with wide toebox
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$65
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$70
Backcountry
Free shipping
$70
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$70
Shoe Mall
Free shipping
$70
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$100
Best stability for beginners running shoes
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
89
Great!
What makes it the best?
One of Brooks’ most revered and popular stability shoes gets a well-needed modern update for 2022. This daily runner is loved by many because it’s seen as the Jack of all trades running shoe thanks to a bi-directional correction for different over-pronation. With fresher looks, it’s now an even more attractive option.
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
- High price point for stability aimed at beginners
- Midsole is too hard for some
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$106
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$120
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$120
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$120
Backcountry
Free shipping
$120
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$140
Best running shoes for beginners for long distance
Brooks Ghost 14
91
Superb!
What makes it the best?
The Ghost 14 from Brooks really fits the bill as the shoe for all runners. It's a workhorse that's comfy enough for easy days, responsive for tempo sessions, and is heavy-duty to handle light trails. Overall, a no-fuss daily trainer that will work for all your runs!
Pros
- All about comfort!
- True to size
- Lots of padding
- Smooth ride
- Really stable, even on light trails
- 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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Amazon
Free shipping
$89
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$100
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$100
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$100
Backcountry
Free shipping
$100
Finish Line
Free shipping & returns
$140
Best running shoes for beginners with plush cushioning
ASICS Gel Cumulus 24
90
Superb!
What makes it the best?
The twenty-fourth version of the ASICS Gel Cumulus goes from hiding in the shadows of its premium siblings like the Nimbus and the Kayano to marking the Cumulus line's own becoming. It's a solid daily trainer that maxes out comfort in your easy and long days on the road. Even better, it's built to last. So if you want to make the most out of your $130 purchase, the ASICS Gel Cumulus 24 won't be a bust.
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$65
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$80
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$89
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$90
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$94
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$130
Best marathon for beginners running shoes
Hoka Mach 5
90
Superb!
What makes it the best?
The Mach 5 from Hoka is a performance trainer that can do a bit of everything. If you want to train with speed, it can be your trusty tempo running shoe. And if you want an easy-day or long-distance trainer, the Mach 5's cushy yet stable ride will serve you just right. Even better, it'll give you all the snappiness and energy return you need.
Pros
- Super fun and energetic ride
- Velvety smooth strides
- Runs and feels light
- Comfy for easy days
- Cushioned for long runs
- Absorbs impact
- Awesome fit
- Welcomes wide feet
- Reflective
- Worth the money
Cons
- Slips on wet pavement
- Gets easily dirty
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$140
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$140
Hoka
Free shipping & returns
$140
Amazon
Free shipping
$140
Backcountry
Free shipping
$140
REI
Free shipping
$140
Comparison of the 7 best running shoes for beginners
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