Best Affordable Running Shoes for 2024
Photos by Marques Jackson Photography.
tBy Marnie Kunz,
Certified running coach and trainer
If you’re looking for affordable running shoes, you’re not alone. Running shoes are the biggest cost of participating in the sport for most runners. As the most crucial - and only - piece of equipment you need to run, running shoes are essential. However, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on running shoes. There are excellent running shoe models that can help you run strong and injury-free without breaking your budget. Whether you need a durable shoe for long runs or a shoe with plenty of padding for running on concrete, these budget-friendly running sneakers are some of the best cheap running shoes.
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After running for most of my life, I’ve seen the cost of running shoes steadily slide up, with some new, “high-tech” models and premium brands commanding more than $200 for a pair. But you don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars to get a good pair of running shoes.
People I coach often ask me about the best running shoes. I am sharing tips to help you save on running shoes and find a good pair that fits well. Affordable running shoes don’t have to sacrifice quality, and this guide includes ways to shop smart and save while landing the best shoes for you, whether you're marathon training or looking for trail shoes.
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Running Shoe Costs
If you’re worried about finding affordable running shoes, you’re not alone. According to Statista, most runners find the cost of running shoes important, with 38.6% reporting the price as moderately important, 27.9% believing the cost is very important, and 14.8% saying it’s extremely important. In contrast, only 10% of runners say running shoes' price does not matter.
What to Look for in Running Shoes
When you’re shopping for affordable running shoes, try these tips to find the best shoes for you:
Get fitted for running shoes. Going to your local running store is the best way to get fitted for running shoes to test different models. Your running shoe specialist should be able to recommend shoe models based on your foot strike pattern and training specifics (such as the kind of surfaces you run on - concrete, trail, or treadmill, and your training needs for road-running shoes, for instance, or racing shoes).
Do a wear test. Most running stores have a treadmill where you can do a short run test to try different shoes. Or you can jog around the store and see how the shoes feel. Make sure the shoes feel comfortable and work with the socks you usually wear for running. Consider your running gait and that will help you decide if you need a neutral shoe or one with arch support or a stable ride.
Be open to different brands. When searching for affordable running shoes, if you don’t already have a brand or model that works well for you, be open to different brands for your new shoe. Each shoe brand has a wide range of models, and it’s best to focus on the shoe model and features more than the brand. For instance, if you need stability shoes, most running shoe brands have stability models, and you will have a better chance of finding the right pair that suits you best if you’re open to options in the stability category regardless of brand. Look for a shoe with a comfortable fit.
Try last season’s colors. Shopping for older models and colors of road running or trail shoes can save you a lot of money and make your shoes more budget-friendly. Running shoes are like technology - constantly updating. Often, the upgrade to a newer model is minor, with older shoe models working just as well as new models.
Related Post: Guide to Running on Concrete and Other Surfaces
How to Find Cheap Running Shoes
Follow these tips to find the most affordable running shoes:
Shop for older shoe models. Sportswear companies constantly come out with new models, and last season’s shoes can save you up to $50 or more. Older shoe models often go on sale and clearance, so you can stock up and save. If you already have a running shoe that works well for you, keep your eyes peeled for when it goes on sale when newer models come out.
Try different colors. Often, just changing the color of the shoe you want can save you a lot of money. Specific colors tend to go on sale if they’re less popular, and these are often bright colors or seasonal colors. Your feet don’t care what color your shoes are, so don’t discriminate if you want to find the best deals.
Check out online deals on sites like Amazon and save on older models, colors, and styles of running shoes. Certain sitewide sale days will offer additional discounts on many running shoes.
Shop at outlets. Most running shoe brands have outlet stores. Visiting the outlet online or in person can land you the best deals. Some online outlets include Joe’s New Balance Outlet, Adidas Premium Outlets, Nike Premium Outlets, and Brooks shoe sales.
Sign up for brand newsletters to get discounts. Many companies offer a deal on your order when you sign up for their newsletter.
Shop sales at local running and sporting goods stores. As with online shopping, you will find discounts on older models and colors of running shoes in big box retail stores.
Best Affordable Running Shoes for 2024
You can get deals on running shoes with older models and colors.
Here are some of the best affordable running shoes that cost $100 or less. I am including some recommendations of running shoes I’ve tried and some that are the top rated for their price range. Keep in mind that it’s best to try on the shoes in person if you can before ordering online so you know the shoes offer comfort and fit well.
Adidas Duramo Running Shoes
The Adidas Duramo are budget-friendly running shoes with light stability, medium cushioning, and good durability. These affordable shoes come in classic colors like black and white. They are a popular budget-friendly choice for a daily trainer and workouts.
Nike React Infinity Running Shoes
I’ve run a lot in the Nike React Infinity Running Shoes, and they have been great stability shoes for me. If you have pronation (rolling of your foot or ankle when you run), these running shoes offer support to help you run more efficiently. You can save by getting older styles and colors of these shoes.
Shop Women’s Nike React Infinity
Shop Men’s Nike React Infinity Run
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoes
For a multi-purpose running shoe that you can use for training, running, and walking, this New Balance shoe is a popular pick. The Arishi has extra cushion in the heel from Fresh Foam and a lightweight mesh upper. Several wearers report the shoes run small and recommend sizing up a half size. If you’re in doubt, head to a store to try on a tester pair.
Shop Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi
Shop Men’s New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
The Under Armor Charged Assert is an excellent deal for a low-priced training shoe that can do some light running. This shoe is versatile and works best for workouts and short easy runs, like running to the gym for strength training.
Shop Men’s Under Armour Charged Assert
Shop Women’s Under Armour Charged Assert
Brooks Ghost Running Shoes
The Brooks Ghost is a classic running shoe with a longtime fan base. You can snag deals on these neutral running shoes by getting older models, such as the Brooks 14. The Brooks Ghost is supportive and can withstand daily running and walking. Last season’s colors are also often discounted, so you can spend less than $100.
Shop Women’s Brooks Ghost Running Shoes
Shop Men’s Brooks Ghost Running Shoes
ASICS Gel Excite Running Shoes
Asics is a favorite running shoe brand with a proven track record. The Asics Gel Excite running shoes are recommended for light running and beginners. These budget-friendly Asics feature GEL cushioning with AMPLIFOAM which makes them comfortable for most runners.
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FAQs
What are some good inexpensive running shoes?
Most running shoe brands have inexpensive models of running shoes as well as sales on older models of more highly-priced shoes. Some popular, affordable running shoes include the Under Armour Charged Assert 9, Adidas Duramo, and New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi running shoes.
Are cheap running shoes any good?
Inexpensive running shoes that are less than $100 can be good. Some cheaper models in the $50 price range are better for light running, beginning runners, and walkers. In contrast, models closer to $100 tend to be more specialized for long-distance running.
Are cheap running shoes as good as expensive ones?
This depends on many factors, including the exact pair of shoes, how they fit you, and your running style. Some cheaper running shoes are designed for light running training and other workouts, and these would only be good for short runs. On the other hand, there are many deals on higher-priced running shoes that you can get for around $75 to $110, and these shoes are usually designed to be more durable for higher daily training mileage.
How often should you replace running shoes?
You should replace your running shoes every 300 to 500 miles, with many shoes needing replacement closer to the 300 mile range in recent years. If you put a lot of wear on your shoes and use them for more than running, your shoes will not last as long.
How to get the best deal on running shoes?
Look for last season’s running shoe models and colors for great bargains. You can also shop at discount stores and outlet stores in person or online.
These tips should help you find your next great pair of running shoes without breaking your budget. If you need a training plan to slay your next race, head to our Training Center. Happy running to you!
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Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach, dog lover, Akita mom, and writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She is the founder of Runstreet.
