The 9 Best Cheap Running Shoes of 2025, Expert-Tested

Buying sneakers can be complicated, especially when you’re shopping on a budget. Fortunately, many top running shoe brands make supportive, comfortable, and durable pairs at competitive prices. To find the best cheap running shoes, we started by consulting five experts—including podiatrists and running coaches—to learn which key features to look for.

Then, we tested dozens of affordable running shoes over the course of six weeks. Sometimes, we had two runners test each pair to get a better idea of how the shoes fit and feel on different foot types. The running shoes that made our final list of recommendations earned high scores for their superior fit, comfort, cushioning, responsiveness, stability, and overall value.

Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:

Asics Women’s GEL-Excite 10 at Amazon $85

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Best Men's Overall:

Saucony Men’s Cohesion 16 at Amazon $100

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Best for Short Distances:

New Balance Women’s FuelCell Propel v4 at Amazon $110

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Best Cushioned:

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 at Amazon $40

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Best for Flat Feet:

SALE

Asics Men’s GT-1000 12 Running Shoes at Amazon ~~$100~~ $80

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Best for Neutral Runners:

Brooks Men’s Anthem 6 at Amazon

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Best for Road Running:

SALE

Nike Men’s Downshifter 13 at Amazon ~~$80~~ $46

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Best for Trail Running:

SALE

ASICS Gel-Venture 9 at Amazon ~~$75~~ $60

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Best for Speed:

Brooks Launch 10 Running Shoe at Amazon

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How to Save Money on Running Shoes

Older sneaker models often have many of the same features as newer ones, with a lower price tag. When a new version of your favorite shoe comes out, stock up on the previous one at a discount.
Some colors and patterns may be less expensive, so it’s worth price-checking the different options if you’re less particular about your shoes’ appearance.
If you wear a smaller size, browse the boys’ or girls’ version of your go-to sneaker. It may be very similar in style (but is usually less expensive).
Shop online to find extra discounts. Many online stores run sales on past versions of shoes, and even new styles are often cheaper online than in-store.

Best Women's Overall

Asics Women’s GEL-Excite 10

Credit: Zappos

$85

$80 at Amazon $85 at Zappos View on Simon.com

Pros

Two kinds of cushioning
Breathable mesh upper
Lightweight

Cons

Not a stability shoe

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 Weight: 7.8 ounces Drop: 8 millimeters Best For: Road, treadmill

Who They’re For

Best for casual or beginner runners with neutral arches.

Why We Love Them

Asics’ Gel-Excite 10 is one of our top overall picks because it’s well-cushioned, lightweight, and priced under $100. It has Asics’ signature support and technology that runners appreciate for both short workouts and long-distance runs at a budget-friendly price.

When we tested the previous model of this sneaker (the Gel-Excite 9), we loved the combination of soft gel and foam cushioning in the midsole. With each stride, we noticed a springy feel and strong rebound. And even during long runs in hot weather, the breathable mesh upper helps air circulate to keep our feet cool and dry.

The Gel-Excite 10 has a sturdy and durable rubber outsole with strategically placed grooves for better flexibility. Available in two widths and a wide range of colors, it’s a sleek, stylish shoe that works well for new or casual runners since it can also double as a comfortable walking shoe.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

We noticed during testing that, since the GEL-Excite line is so lightweight, it’s not as stable as some of our other top picks.

Best Men's Overall

Saucony Men’s Cohesion 16

Credit: Amazon

$100 at Amazon View on Shoemall.com View on Academy.com

Pros

Excellent shock absorption
Good traction
Breathable mesh upper

Cons

Not as durable

Key Specs

Sizes: 7 to 15 Weight: 9.2 ounces Drop: 12 millimeters Best For: Road, treadmill

Who They’re For

Best for runners with neutral arches and plantar fasciitis.

Why We Love Them

Saucony’s Cohesion 16 takes our other best overall spot because it rivals Saucony’s more expensive models at a more competitive price. It’s one of our top picks for casual runners who need a dependable sneaker for spending lots of time on their feet, and it's under $100.

With a durable, grippy rubber outsole, this shoe can take you over miles of asphalt without weighing you down. The spacious toe box offers plenty of room for your forefoot, for better stability and power transfer. Plus, we like that the Cohesion 16 is available in two widths for runners with wide feet or orthotics.

A light, breathable mesh upper keeps your feet dry and comfortable, preventing painful blisters from forming. The midsole also features ample cushioning, which delivers excellent shock absorption and smooth transitions—making the Cohesion 16 one of our favorite budget-friendly shoes for runners with plantar fasciitis.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

Although this shoe is made from high-quality materials, some wearers have found that it tends to show signs of wear and tear quickly.

Best for Short Distances

New Balance Women’s FuelCell Propel v4

Credit: Amazon

$110

$100 at Amazon

$110

$66 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

Great energy return
Fast transitions
Sleek style

Cons

Upper isn’t as breathable
Outsole isn’t very grippy

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 Weight: 8.1 ounces Drop: 6 millimeters Best For: Roads, treadmill, track

Who They’re For

Best for runners with a neutral gait who want a springy shoe for short, fast workouts.

Why We Love Them

New Balance’s FuelCell Propel v4 boasts the same materials and technology found in other New Balance models without the higher price tag. It features a springy foam midsole that offers cloud-like comfort and an energetic ride. Despite the ample cushioning, it weighs less than some of our other picks, making it one of our top recommendations for sprints or speedwork. This version also includes a flexible plate underneath the midsole that pushes you forward as you accelerate for faster transitions.

We like that the soft upper hugs your foot for a comfortable fit, and the no-sew overlay adds support (not extra bulk). Plus, the padded collar and tongue prevent irritation around your ankles. Overall, the FuelCell Propel v4 is sleek, versatile, and—like most New Balance footwear—comfortable for all-day wear.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

Although the upper is soft, it’s not mesh, so it won’t be as breathable in warm weather.
The outsole is fairly flat with shallow lugs, meaning this sneaker doesn’t have the best traction.

Best Cushioned

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4

Credit: New Balance

$40 at Amazon

$70

$60 at Zappos View on Shoestation.com

Pros

Sleek, stylish design
Removable insoles
Padded ankle collar

Cons

May run narrow
Not warm enough for cold weather

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 Weight: 6.8 ounces Drop: 6 millimeters Best For: Road or treadmill

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want a comfortable sneaker that can easily go from the gym to the coffee shop.

Why We Love Them

New Balance is known for its highly cushioned running shoes, and the Fresh Foam Arishi v4 is no different (except when it comes to the price). When we tested the previous version, the Arishi v3, we liked how easy it was to run in. Despite its ample foam padding in the midsole, the Arishi doesn’t feel bulky and won’t weigh you down. We wore the v3s for multiple long runs and were impressed by how light and responsive they felt.

The Arishi v4 is also durable, with a grippy rubber outsole that provides reliable traction on a range of surfaces. The shoe’s seamless upper is highly breathable, to keep your feet cool and blister-free. Removable insoles and a padded ankle collar add to the functional design. And if you prefer a running shoe that can also be worn casually, these sleek, stylish sneakers fit the bill, all for under $100.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, New Balance, and DSW.

Potential Flaws

Some wearers have found that the toe box runs narrow, so you may want to order your size in the wide width.
The Arishi v4’s breathable mesh upper may be too thin for running in cold weather.

Best for Flat Feet

Asics Men’s GT-1000 12 Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon

$100

$80 at Amazon View on Kohls.com

Pros

Great arch support
Good shock absorption
Smooth transitions

Cons

Narrow toe box

Key Specs

Sizes: 6 to 17 Weight: 9.5 ounces Drop: 8 millimeters Best For: Road, treadmill, light trails

Who They’re For

Best for overpronators on a budget.

Why We Love Them

Overpronators and runners with flat feet often need a stability shoe with extra support. Those can be expensive—which is why we like Asics’ GT-1000 12. With firm foam in the arch and added support around the midfoot to help guide your feet through the gait cycle, it offers motion control at a lower price than most other stability sneakers.

This sneaker also boasts excellent shock absorption and smooth transitions, thanks to pockets of gel underneath the heel. But despite its stellar support and cushioning, the GT-1000 isn’t bulky and has a lightweight feel. With a high-abrasion rubber outsole and a breathable mesh upper, these shoes are comfortable and supportive enough to keep you going for miles.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

The toe box runs narrow, so opt for a wide or extra-wide size if you need some extra space.

Best for Neutral Runners

Brooks Men’s Anthem 6

Credit: Amazon

View on Amazon $85 at Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros

Responsive cushioning
Removable insoles
Breathable mesh upper

Cons

Not as supportive
Only comes in one width

Key Specs

Sizes: 7 to 15 Weight: 9.4 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Best For: Road

Who They’re For

Best for new runners who want a responsive shoe for road running.

Why We Love Them

Brooks fans will appreciate the quality (and lower price tag) of Brooks’ Anthem 6. When we tested the previous model of this sneaker, we were impressed by its responsive cushioning. The foam midsole provided a soft, plush landing while still promoting the natural movement of our forefoot. We also found that the breathable, flexible mesh upper had an exceptional fit and offered just the right amount of support.

The Anthem 6 is one of our top picks for outdoor runs, although it also works well for walking and casual wear. We like that it has a high heel tab in the back, so you can slip it on and off easily. Plus, like other Brooks shoes, these have removable insoles—ideal if you need some additional room for orthotics or inserts.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Potential Flaws

This shoe is designed for neutral runners, so it may not be supportive enough if you overpronate or have flat feet.
We’d love to see this shoe in multiple widths.

Best for Road Running

Nike Men’s Downshifter 13

Credit: Nike

$80

$46 at Amazon View on Nike.com View on Jdsports.com

Pros

Solid traction
Versatile
Midfoot band adds support

Cons

May run narrow
Not as durable

Key Specs

Sizes: 6 to 15 Weight: Not listed Drop: Not listed Best For: Road, track

Who They’re For

Best for runners who cross-train when they’re not chasing their personal record.

Why We Love Them

With its exceptional design, outstanding performance, and budget-friendly price under $100, Nike’s Downshifter 13 stands out as our top pick for road running. It has plenty of soft foam cushioning in the midsole and heel for comfort from your first mile to your last. We also like that the shoe’s durable rubber outsole has grooves that create flexibility and reliable traction.

When we tested the previous model of this shoe (the Downshifter 12), it performed well as a daily trainer for shorter track sessions and longer runs on pavement. We also noticed that the Downshifter is comfortable and stable enough for everything from running errands to strength-training workouts, making it one of our more versatile picks. Another bonus? The new model boasts a band that wraps around the midfoot for additional support.

Also available in women’s sizes at Nike and Kohl's.

Potential Flaws

When we tested the Downshifter 12, we noticed that it ran narrow. But we like that the new model comes in two widths, for a better fit.
The mesh upper is on the thinner side—some wearers have found that it tends to wear out more quickly.

Best for Trail Running

ASICS Gel-Venture 9

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon

$75

$60 at Amazon

Pros

Great traction
Excellent shock absorption
Two kinds of cushioning

Cons

Heavy
Not waterproof

Key Specs

Sizes: 5 to 12 Weight: 8.6 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Best For: Light trails, road

Who They’re For

Best for trail runners with neutral arches.

Why We Love Them

Searching for a budget-friendly running shoe under $100 that works well for road and trail running? We recommend Asics’ Gel-Venture 9. Asics’ popular combination of foam and gel padding in the midsole helps absorb shock from impact and provides cushioned comfort no matter your mileage or preferred terrain.

When we tested this pair, we immediately noticed how well the midsole protected us from feeling the gravel or asphalt underneath. The outsole’s reverse-traction lugs provide a little extra cushion and had great grip during our runs (even in wet weather). These sneakers have a supportive sock liner that can be removed if you need to add orthotics, making them one of our top picks for runners with a history of foot pain. Whether or not you need more room in the toe box, you're sure to find the right fit among Asics’ medium and wide sizes.

Also available in men’s sizes at DSW and Famous Footwear.

Potential Flaws

These are some of the heavier shoes on our list. We don’t recommend them for sprints or other speed workouts.
Although we wish they were waterproof, we noticed that the Gel-Venture 9 does repel some moisture and dries quickly.

The Asics Gel-Venture 9 features foam and gel cushioning in both the front and rear areas. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Gel-Venture 9 has a breathable mesh upper and comes in lots of colorways. Credit: Verywell Fit

Best for Speed

Brooks Launch 10 Running Shoe

Brooks Menâs Launch 10 Neutral Running Shoe

Credit: Amazon

View on Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Fleetfeet.com

Pros

Designed to prevent blisters
Responsive midsole
Smooth, quick transitions

Cons

Not as much arch support
May run narrow

Key Specs

Sizes: 7 to 15 Weight: 8.3 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Best For: Road, treadmill

Who They’re For

Best for runners with neutral arches who prefer fast workouts and racing (indoors or out).

Why We Love Them

If you’re a neutral runner looking for a shoe that hits the sweet spot between a streamlined racing flat and a supportive everyday trainer, we recommend Brooks’ Launch 10. During testing, we noticed that these sneakers are impressively responsive, allowing for smooth, quick transitions from heel to toe. We also like that the knit upper offers a snug, secure fit, even when you pick up the pace.

The lightweight foam midsole isn’t too plush, but still protects your joints on long runs. Even better, the Launch 10’s collar is designed to pull away from your ankles to prevent painful blisters from forming on long runs. Available in two widths and a range of bright color combinations, this sneaker is our top pick for runners working on a faster mile.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon and Fleet Feet.

Potential Flaws

These shoes have less arch support than other pairs we tested, so we don’t recommend them for overpronators or runners with high arches.
We also noticed that the toe box runs a bit narrow. You may want to order your size in the wide width for some extra room.

Brooks’ Launch 10 Neutral Running Shoes have responsive cushioning to adapt to your unique stride. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks Launch 10 running shoes have great traction to prevent slipping on various terrains. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Brooks Lauch 10's lightweight, supportive design feels especially responsive while running. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Brooks Launch 10s are supportive, but may not have enough arch support for some runners. Credit: Verywell Fit
Brooks Launch 10 running shoes have a breathable upper to keep feet from overheating. Credit: Verywell Fit
The Brooks Launch 10's firm foam midsole helps avoid shock and protect joints while running. Credit: Verywell Fit
This Brooks shoe's flexible outsole offered a smooth running stride during our tests. Credit: Verywell Fit
This running shoe's knit upper provided a secure, stable fit, and the collar prevented blisters. Credit: Verywell Fit

Cheap Running Shoes We Also Tested

We’ve tested over 100 pairs of running shoes, but only a few earned their way onto our list of budget-friendly favorites. Although these other sneakers had some nice features, they ultimately didn’t impress us:

Brooks’ Revel 6 is lightweight and priced competitively, but we were disappointed by the fit. On longer runs, it caused chafing and painful blisters.
Nike’s Winflo 10 is stylish, with plenty of soft cushioning in the midsole and great shock absorption. But the shoes run very small and caused us a lot of pain in our toes during testing.

We continue to test all of the shoes on our list at home, and we’ll update our recommendations if we notice anything major that we haven’t already mentioned here.

What to Look for When Shopping for Cheap Running Shoes

Foot Type: Make sure your shoes are designed for your foot type, whether you have flat feet or high arches. Also, consider your gait: Neutral runners, overpronators, and supinators all require sneakers with different levels of support. Experts at a specialty running store can help you determine your gait type and find the right pair, says running coach Dana Anello White, CPT.
Roads or Trails: What’s your running routine like? Do you enjoy speed workouts, distance runs, or both? Do you prefer running on roads, treadmills, or trails? Road running shoes are ideal for beginners, while trail running shoes are best for running on uneven surfaces, says podiatrist Marlene Reid, DPM, FACFAS. Knowing your preferences can help narrow down your search.
Fit: Your running shoes should fit comfortably right out of the box, with no break-in period needed. Look for shoes that have enough room in the toe box to account for some swelling (but not so much space that you get blisters), says running coach Randy Accetta. If you have narrow or wide feet, look for sneakers that come in multiple widths.
Support: Check for the essentials—firm arch support, solid ankle support, a deep heel cup, and a grippy outsole. If you have flat feet or you overpronate, consider stability running shoes with stiffer foam in the midsole that helps align your feet as you run.
Drop: A shoe’s heel-to-toe drop measures the difference between the height of the shoe’s sole at the heel and the forefoot in millimeters. Most running shoes have an 8- to 12-millimeter drop. Sneakers with a higher drop tend to have more cushioning underneath the heel, providing better protection for heel-strikers. Shoes with a lower drop place less pressure on your knees and hips, making them better for runners with a midfoot or forefoot strike.
Durability: Budget-friendly running shoes may not be as durable as higher-priced pairs, so it pays to do your research and carefully inspect your sneakers before purchasing. Look for sturdy rubber outsoles and uppers made from high-quality materials that won’t tear easily.

Brooks Launch 10 on a shiny yellow surface — The Brooks Launch 10 shoes perform well for fast workouts and racing thanks to their supportive fit.
Verywell Fit

How We Tested the Best Cheap Running Shoes

To find the best cheap running shoes, we’ve tested over 100 pairs from top, trusted brands. For the pairs we select through research, we first ask our experts which features to look for in high-quality sneakers. Then, we review key specs and customer feedback for dozens of shoes at budget-friendly prices to find the best options on the market. When testing running shoes, we often have two people test each pair to account for different preferences and foot types. As we continue to test and evaluate more cheap running shoes, we keep these key criteria in mind:

Fit: When we first try the shoe on, we make sure there’s adequate space in the toe box. Do the sneakers feel secure and comfortable around our toes, heels, and arches? These observations help us decide whether a shoe runs narrow, wide, or true to size.
Stability: We run on different surfaces, including pavement, sidewalks, treadmills, and trails, to assess how stable and supportive the shoes feel. Do they have enough arch and ankle support?
Responsiveness: We look for shoes that feel bouncy and springy underfoot. Does the sneaker propel us to the next stride and give energy back to us as we land? We also note whether our feet and legs feel fresh or tired at the end of each run.
Cushioning: During test runs, we note how soft or firm the cushioning feels. Is there enough foam to help support our feet and protect our joints? If there’s any extra padding in the tongue or collar, we note that, too.
Comfort: As we run in the shoes, we pay attention to how they feel on our feet. Do they cause chafing or blisters? Is the upper soft and breathable, or does it have irritating seams? We prioritize shoes that are so comfortable, we forget we’re wearing them.
Overall Value: To rate each sneaker’s value, we don’t check the price until testing is completed—after we’ve evaluated it in all other categories. Based on their performance, does the price seem fair, or would we only buy them if they went on sale? We also consider whether we’d recommend these shoes to a friend or family member. Shoes we’d happily pay full price for earn a higher value score.

Limitations of Cheap Running Shoes

Some cheaper shoes lack the latest materials and features found on their more expensive counterparts, but many older materials were still tried-and-true options before new designs came out.
Affordable options are great for beginners to get a feel for what they like and test their running shoes on roads, trails, and more before committing to a more expensive pair.
Cheap running shoes may wear faster than high-end models with extra-durable materials. However, they still work well for most running needs.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage while testing, researching, and reporting this story. Some, like Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, helped us design our testing process. Others, like White and Accetta, provided valuable tips on how running shoes should fit and feel. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions.

Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot & Ankle Center
Marlene Reid, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist in Naperville, Illinois
Dana Anello White, CPT, a personal trainer, certified running and nutrition coach, and founder of Jersey Women Strong
Randy Accetta, a certified running coach and director of coaching education for Road Runners Club of America
Rob Conenello, DPM, FACPAS, FAAPSM, a sports podiatrist and founder of Orangetown Podiatry in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

Do more expensive running shoes make a difference?

There’s no guarantee that spending more on your running shoes will improve your race times. When it comes to choosing the right sneakers, research shows that comfort is the most important factor—high-end features or technology aside.

What brands make the best cheap running shoes?

Many popular running shoe brands like ASICS, New Balance, Nike, Brooks, and Hoka offer affordable models of running shoes in addition to more expensive options.

What makes running shoes expensive?

High-end running shoes typically have new materials and innovative features like premium foam, carbon fiber plates to propel the runner forward, and extra-supportive insoles to prevent foot fatigue. More expensive models may also have especially lightweight designs or engineered mesh for breathability.

Should running shoes be a size bigger?

In general, most runners should wear shoes that are a half to a full size larger than their usual. The extra space helps accommodate the expansion of your foot when it hits the ground with each step, as well as any normal swelling that may occur, according to White.

How often should you replace running shoes?

Most running shoes last about 300 to 500 miles before the cushioning and support wear out, putting you at risk of injury. You may also need new shoes more often if you log a lot of miles outside or on rugged terrain. Pay attention to how your shoes feel and look for signs of wear: If you can easily fold them lengthwise at the toe box, it may be time to replace them, says Accetta.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, personal trainer, Verywell Fit writer, and avid runner, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has researched and tested countless running shoes. While it’s fun to score a deal on running shoes, she recommends researching the right sneakers for your foot type before just heading for the clearance rack. She likes to wait until a new version of her favorite running shoe, Brooks’ Glycerin, is released, so she can grab the older model on sale. For this article, Christine looked over the test results to help compile our top picks.