When you first start running, getting the right pair of shoes is important. Running is fantastic for cardiovascular health and stamina, and it can be an effective tool for weight loss when paired with the appropriate diet and nutrition. Ensuring that your feet are protected, supported and comfortable is a sure way to give yourself the very best chance of enjoying and keeping up running, right? That’s why it’s so important that you land a pair of the best beginner running shoes.
Selecting the right running shoes is a personal venture. Your choice will depend on your preferences, whether functionality, fit, colour, or design. Perhaps you’ll be facing adverse conditions where a pair of waterproof running shoes are essential, traversing tricky terrain, or maybe you need a pair for the treadmill; there’s a set that will cater to your needs.
The best beginner running shoes at a glance:
Best overall: Brook Ghost 15 – View men's | View women's
Best budget: Reebok Floatride Energy 5 – View men's | View women's
Best for race day: Hoka Mach 5 – View men's | View women's
Getting your hands on the best running shoes that money can buy will be a huge incentive to get out there and start that journey as a regular runner. At What’s the Best, we’ve compiled a list of some of the finest running shoes available – elsewhere, we've discussed the best cheap running shoes that are good for those looking to get jogging without spending big. Find your style, secure your fit, and run.
The best beginner running shoes:
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall
AmazonSo, you want a running shoe that's all-purpose and can tackle any high-speed adventure? Let us present you with the Brooks Ghost 15. We're talking about a resilient outsole and a comfortably padded insole, making a well-rounded running experience combined.
It might be slightly heavier than its predecessor, and it could be more breathable, but the Ghost 15s exceed in so many other aspects that it's hard to fault it.
The pictured shoe is the women’s Brooks Ghost 15. Click here to see the men’s version.
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Great for various conditions
- Decent value
Cons
- Breathability could be better
| Colours: | Various colours available |
| Sizes: | 3-6 (including wide variations) |
| Support: | Neutral |
| Cushioning: | More cushioning |
Best budget
AmazonFor many, it has to be comfort above all else, and Reebook understood the assignment with the Floatride Energy 5s. These are some of the most cushioned running shoes on the market; they offer a gentle fit like none other. Don't think performance is lacking, though, because the Floatride Energy 5s can and will give you the right platform for speed.
The pictured shoe is the men’s Reebok Floatride Energy 5. Click here to see the women’s version.
Pros
- Smooth ride
- Super comfortable
- Great support at speed
Cons
- Narrow fit at mid-foot
| Colours: | Multiple variations |
| Sizes: | 2.5-9.5 |
| Support: | High |
| Cushion: | High |
3.
Hoka Mach 6
Best for breathability
What's The Best/ Gemma Laverswww.hoka.com
When put against previous models, the Hoka Mach 6 trainers offer a springier feel that encourages momentum during runs. This is a very breathable running shoe too, courtesy of fantastic zonal breathability. They're best for daily miles and tempo training, the trainers are seriously lightweight at 189g and have an upper that prevents any post-workout odours. While the rubber EVA outsole guarantees vital terrain control, its grip sometimes falls short in wet conditions.
Overall, the Hoka Mach 6 impresses with its comfort and performance, but requires consideration of outdoor conditions before use.
Gemma Lavers put the Hoka Mach 6 through their paces. She said: "Like most Hoka trainers, the lightweight design of these shoes is something to shout about. Weighing in at just 189g, the Mach 6's are extraordinarily light (despite the generous cushioning), and this allowed me to maintain speed without feeling weighed down."
"Whether I was tackling long distances or sprinting intervals, the Mach 6 proved to be a versatile running shoe, adapting oh-so-effortlessly to my pace and stride."
Find out more in her full review.
Pros
- Critical foam midsole is incredibly durable
- Zonal breathability is second to none
- Great responsiveness and ground connection
Cons
- A lot of shoe just for casual beginner runners
| Colours: | Multiple variations |
| Sizes: | 6.5-13.5 |
| Support: | Neutral |
| Cushion: | High |
Best from Adidas
What's The Best / Jack Barrellwww.sportsdirect.com
Just looking at the new Takumi Sen 10's from Adidas, quality jumps out at you. These road running shoes ooze superior craftsmanship, evident from the laces to the heel, cushioning and tread. With a 6mm heel-to-toe drop that's complemented by a secure heel and upper, they provide a purposeful and direct ride that feels very safe. Plus, the Continental™ high-grip rubber in the tread ensures reliable traction across various road terrains and conditions, an extremely practical feature to have.
The pictured shoe is the men’s Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10. Click here to see the women’s version.
The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 running shoes were tested by Jack Barrell: "If I were to imagine the ideal reliable and durable running shoe, the Sen 10 is what I would think of. In the premium running shoe market, these shoes sit comfortably in that mid to high range, which is the right place for them."
"The tough mesh upper won’t be to everyone's taste, and it only takes a glance to see that these are in no way waterproof, but perhaps that's not the point. The Adidas Takumi Sen 10 aren't for runners looking for that floaty, spring-loaded, luxury running experience. They're built for the hard runners who yearn to feel connected to the ground beneath them without sacrificing comfort or performance. If you're serious about running and can appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into 10 generations of running shoes, these should be right up your alley."
You can read his full review here.
Pros
- Promotes a natural running style perfect for beginners
- High-quality build
- Continental™ rubber means grip is second to none
Cons
- Sizing runs very small
- Not as bouncy a ride as competitors
| Colours: | Green spark |
| Sizes: | 8-12 |
| Support: | Neutral |
| Cushion: | Neutral |
Best maximalist
What's The Best / Jack Barrrellwww.newbalance.co.uk
Experience next-level performance with New Balance's FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 Shoes. These high-tech runners feature a responsive FuelCell midsole and a carbon fibre plate for explosive propulsion, ensuring maximum performance with every stride. They're also tremendously well cushioned and comfortable, so they're an ideal maximalist running shoe choice for beginners.
The pictured shoe is the men’s New Balance SuperComp v4. Click here to see the women’s version.
Jack Barrell reviewed these shoes. Here's what he had to say: "These running shoes are like nothing I’ve worn before. The combination of a 40mm stack height with the PEBA Foam Fuel Cells means they’re springy, supported, and very well cushioned. The tighter FantomFit upper of this shoe offers a reliable, secure feeling to the ankle. So, you get the playful bounce of the midsole with a performance-centric upper shoe, providing the best of both worlds."
Pros
- Floaty, bouncy ride
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent support at all speeds
Cons
- Expensive for running newcomers
| Colours: | Multiple variations |
| Sizes: | 6.5-11 |
| Support: | High |
| Cushion: | High |
6.
Hoka Mach 5
Best for race day
www.hoka.com
You'll feel lightning fast with the Hoka Mach 5s. These running shoes are built for speed, making you feel weightless and dynamic. Outside of the shoe durability does take a slight back seat with a high priority put on speed.
At the time of writing, these are on sale as there's now a new version available (find out more in our Hoka Mach 6 review). Getting such a good shoe at this price is ideal for a beginner runner.
The pictured shoe is the men’s Hoka Mach 5. Click here to see the women’s version.
Pros
- Very accommodating fit
- Runs and feels light
Cons
- Outsole durability lacking
| Colours: | Multiple variations |
| Sizes: | 7-12.5 |
| Support: | Neutral |
| Cushion: | Responsive |
Best for daily use
New Balancewww.newbalance.co.uk
New Balance is a serious name in sports footwear and is responsible for some iconic daily trainers. The Fresh Foam X 880v14 trainers are the ultimate daily running shoes. They look fresh, feel fresh, and are stronger than they look.
Comfortable would be an understatement for these NB trainers, and the grip is respectable, too. Okay, they're not superstars in the wet, but you should have no trouble on any kind of dry terrain.
The pictured shoe is the women’s Fresh Foam X 880v14. Click here to see the men’s version.
Pros
- Well-cushioned, comfortable fit
- Stylish colours
- Good grip
Cons
- Not durable in adverse conditions
| Colours: | Multiple variations |
| Sizes: | 6.5-12.5 |
| Support: | High |
| Comfort: | Responsive |
How to choose the best beginner running shoes
As a newbie runner, it's so important that you pick the right set of running shoes. If you have little experience with modern running shoes, phrases like heel-toe-drop, carbon plate, or mesh upper might all sound a little foreign. That's alright though, because picking out your debut running shoes has to be unequivocally personal, that means looking for elements you favour in your everyday footwear.
Cushioning is an easy place to start, do you prefer your footwear to be especially padded? This'll mean a far more supported ride where comfort takes priority. A lesser cushioned shoe will encourage a more natural walking or running style, so there're benefits to each angle.
Consider the environment in which you'll taking your runs. The market for running shoes accounts for a range of running conditions and settings. This is extremely important as a beginner runner, if you end up with a pair of running shoes that aren't designed for a certain environment, your performance, comfort, and even your foot health could pay the price.
How long do running shoes last?
Currently embroiled in long-distance run training, What's The Best's editor, William Austin-Lobley, has been researching running shoes and gaining advice from those in the know. We asked him to give us some information on how long running shoes last. Here's what he said:
"It's pretty clear from the talks I've had with other runners, shoe fitters and my own experience that a good set of running shoes will always need replacing sooner than normal footwear. When I bought my first 'real' pair of running shoes – i.e., they cost me over £150 – I was surprised that I was told I would have to change them in 300 miles. After asking around, I was comfortable pushing this closer to 400 miles, but switching to a new pair showed me how quickly running shoes degrade without you noticing."
Indeed, it's a widely understood fact in running circles that running shoes typically last between 300 to 500 miles (480 to 800 km). However, the lifespan of running shoes varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the shoes, the type of running, and individual running habits.
Here are some key factors that influence the longevity of running shoes:
• Surface: Shoes used primarily on softer surfaces like grass or trails may last longer than hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
• Running style: Runners with a lighter foot strike and more efficient form may get more miles out of their shoes compared to those with a heavier foot strike or less efficient gait.
• Body weight: Heavier runners may experience faster wear on their shoes compared to lighter runners.
• Shoe rotation: Alternating between two or more pairs of running shoes can extend the lifespan of each pair, as it allows the shoes to decompress and dry out between runs.
• Shoe quality: Higher-quality shoes from reputable brands often have better materials and construction, potentially leading to longer durability.
• Maintenance: Proper care and keeping shoes clean and allowing them to dry properly can also impact their longevity.
Signs that it's time to replace running shoes include noticeable wear on the outsole, decreased cushioning, discomfort or pain during runs, and visible damage to the shoe's upper or midsole. Regularly monitoring your shoes for these signs can help ensure you replace them at the right time to avoid injury and maintain optimal performance.
If you really want to get serious, there are two more things to consider:
• Race day shoes: These are typically designed for peak performance over durability and may have a shorter lifespan than everyday running shoes. They're best reserved for races or speed workouts, not for everyday training.
• Mileage tracking: Some runners track their mileage using apps or notebooks. This can be a helpful way to know precisely when it's time to replace their shoes, regardless of the calendar timeframe.
FAQs
Do you need running shoes for running?
Yes, you should consider picking up some running shoes if you plan on taking up running in your spare time. Running trainers are constructed for the sole purpose (pardon the pun) of withstanding the heavy use of runners. Running shoes will be designed to be more lightweight, durable, and breathable than typical shoes and trainers.
Can running shoes be used for walking?
Of course, running shoes can be worn for walking, training in the gym, or even nipping down to the shops. Running shoes are just designed to be more accommodating to running and other demanding exercises. They should have better grip, padding, and comfort.
How we chose the best running shoe for beginners
At What’s the Best, we’ve had the opportunity to trial and test some remarkable pairs of running shoes. Based on the experience of our experts some of these example have made it into this buyer's guide for the best beginner running shoes.
Beyond our tried-and-tested suggestions, we have a strict and precise method of determining why each product is deserving of its place on the list. We’ve looked at a range of aspects and assessed how they contribute to overall quality and practicality. We then see if this is fairly represented in the price.
Where beginner running shoes are concerned, the most important elements are durability, comfort, performance, any unique selling points, and of course, design.
Why should you trust us?
At What’s The Best, our mission is to provide accurate and reliable reviews, ensuring our readers receive honest and transparent information about the best technology products available. Anything less would undermine our commitment to being a trusted source of unbiased product information.
Our dedicated in-house writing team comprises experts with extensive experience and a genuine passion for technology. Collectively, we have spent decades testing and writing about tech, leveraging our expertise in all our articles, advice pieces and reviews.
We maintain complete editorial independence and do not accept payment for product reviews. Our writers have full control over their content, ensuring that products are selected based solely on the needs of our readers. While we may earn commissions or other compensation from links on our website, this never affects our product choices. These links enable us to continue offering valuable consumer advice, without compromising the integrity of our reviews.
Jack Barrell is a Tech and Fitness Writer for What’s the Best. He is invested in all things entertainment and keeps well up to date with the latest sports and exercise trends too. On his off days Jack can usually be found doing one of two things; lifting heavy weights – or watching his favourite Star Wars for the thousandth time.