The Best Affordable Running Shoes Under $100
By Bach Pham, Content Manager
There is an age old saying that the best thing about running is that you just need a pair of shoes. Well, the reality is that running shoes are expensive. That's just a fact no matter where you are. Especially as you get more and more into mileage, the cost of shoes and rotating shoes is starts adding up fast. There are a lot of ways to help navigate this though, and in this guide we offer a few strategies and get into some of the best finds available now.
Tips for Finding the Best Price
Are you a Sports Medicine Professional?
Brooks has a 40% off program for those in the field. Find the program here.
Disclaimer
The following recommendations are from a variety of websites. This includes links to our friends at Running Warehouse, which are affiliate links that help support Doctors of Running. The remaining links are non-affiliate links.
In today's market, there are kind of two/three levels of price points for running shoes. Quality running shoes typically start around $110 and quickly skyrocket. There is then a new upper echelon of running shoes that are either highly cushioned and built or built for racing which starts around $160 and goes as high as $275.
There is then a whole layer of new shoes priced $100 and below, which starts getting tricky as the options become harder to parse. For the most part, shoes we review tend to be in the $100+ end as they are more well-built for higher mileage running. Most generic shoes under $100 lack a lot of comfort for racking up miles. While these generic shoes may work for getting started, eventually it is worth exploring a higher quality footwear to help you on your running journey as you go further and further.
There are a few tips we usually provide for finding a quality running shoe at a good price point. The first is to look for last year's models. When a new model releases, typically you can find excellent deals on the previous model. This is a great way to get started compared to buying models that are under $100, but typically lower quality. While in recent years shoes have gotten more and more exciting by the season, last year's models are both proven and plenty of fun for a new runner to get started with.
Doing some research to learn about the various models will also let you go a long way towards looking out for deals. Aim for shoes that are originally between $100-150 initially for deep discounts as well. Daily trainers like the Nike Pegasus, Saucony Ride, and others are often good places to start with and explore as the discounts can run fairly deep.
If you have a good local run store, also get to know them and see if they have annual sales! Stores have to clear inventory annually and when they do it's an amazing way to find deals on shoes you would not be able to get for the price anywhere else.
Finally, be on the lookout during holiday season. It's a great time to find super deals and save up.
There is then a whole layer of new shoes priced $100 and below, which starts getting tricky as the options become harder to parse. For the most part, shoes we review tend to be in the $100+ end as they are more well-built for higher mileage running. Most generic shoes under $100 lack a lot of comfort for racking up miles. While these generic shoes may work for getting started, eventually it is worth exploring a higher quality footwear to help you on your running journey as you go further and further.
There are a few tips we usually provide for finding a quality running shoe at a good price point. The first is to look for last year's models. When a new model releases, typically you can find excellent deals on the previous model. This is a great way to get started compared to buying models that are under $100, but typically lower quality. While in recent years shoes have gotten more and more exciting by the season, last year's models are both proven and plenty of fun for a new runner to get started with.
Doing some research to learn about the various models will also let you go a long way towards looking out for deals. Aim for shoes that are originally between $100-150 initially for deep discounts as well. Daily trainers like the Nike Pegasus, Saucony Ride, and others are often good places to start with and explore as the discounts can run fairly deep.
If you have a good local run store, also get to know them and see if they have annual sales! Stores have to clear inventory annually and when they do it's an amazing way to find deals on shoes you would not be able to get for the price anywhere else.
Finally, be on the lookout during holiday season. It's a great time to find super deals and save up.
Are you a Medical, Military, or First-Responder?
Asics has a 50% off program for those in these fields. It's a massive discount on new shoes that you should learn more about. Find the program here.
Asics has a 50% off program for those in these fields. It's a massive discount on new shoes that you should learn more about. Find the program here.
Are you a Sports Medicine Professional?
Brooks has a 40% off program for those in the field. Find the program here.
Disclaimer
The following recommendations are from a variety of websites. This includes links to our friends at Running Warehouse, which are affiliate links that help support Doctors of Running. The remaining links are non-affiliate links.
Best Budget Running Shoe Picks:
April 2024
Daily Trainers (Neutral)
(Shoes for Everyday Mileage at Easy to Moderate Paces)
The New Balance 880 v13 is a traditionally shaped walk
and running shoe that had an accommodating fit, mildly soft feel, and
very durable construction. It will be best for those wanting a versatile
shoe for some running, some walking, and spending lots of time on your
feet. It is a more than capable daily trainer given the adequate
geometry and quality underfoot feel.
Saucony Ride 16 | Review
The Saucony Ride 16 is a lighter, versatile daily training shoe that
returns with some mild refinements that continue to push this series
forward. A normal-width fit is paired with a comfortable and secure
upper. A new PWRRUN+ insole adds a little more bounce to the moderately
rockered and smooth ride. Coming in at under 9 oz for a men's size 9,
the Ride 16 doubles as a mileage shoe and uptempo/workout shoe. This
neutral versatile daily workhorse is an excellent choice for runner
looking for a shoe that can handle many efforts while still hammering
away at miles.
Asics Gel Cumulus 25 | Review
The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 25 is a moderately high-stacked daily trainer meant for racking up mileage. It features a soft Flytefoam Blast+ midsole with a small wedge of PureGel embedded in the heel. It feels very light on foot for how tall and wide it is, making it a versatile option that can certainly do some mild uptempo training if you want a do-it-all shoe.
Brooks Revel 6 | Review
The Brooks Revel 6 is a neutral daily trainer that, along with the Launch series, has long been a solid daily training budget option in the Brooks line at the $100 level. Featuring an "energizing," springy midsole, it is a shoe that performs nicely a daily efforts and has a little capacity to pick up the pace as well. Best for newer runners looking for a classic training option with no frills and a well-fitting upper, the Revel 6 remains a popular choice that's both easy on the wallet and easy to find.
You can also find huge value in the Revel 5 for $69.95 at Brooks Running.
You can also find huge value in the Revel 5 for $69.95 at Brooks Running.
New Balance 1080v12 | Review
The 1080v12 is New Balance's premium daily trainer that consists of a
soft and plush FRESH FOAM X midsole (EVA) that is shaped with an
aggressive toe spring (upward curve of the toe platform) and a
significant heel bevel, creating an all-around rockered yet flexible
platform. This shoe is created with comfort in mind from top to bottom,
and it delivers just that. Given the emphasis on comfort, there is also a
higher weight, which positions this shoe to be best used for easy and
daily mileage without the desire to pick up the pace. Its geometry sets
this premium trainer apart from other premium shoes like the Brooks
Glycerin, Mizuno Wave Sky, or Saucony Triumph in terms of who may enjoy
this shoe and benefit (or not benefit) most from it.
The HOKA Rincon 3 is a no frills lightweight trainer that is
an interesting crossroads of maximalist design while still maintaining
some ground feel. The third version brings a more breathable upper,
slightly increased rubber outsole coverage, a drop in weight, and some
changes in outsole design that has an impact on heel stability and
effective heel to toe offset. The Rincon sits on the firmer end of the
HOKA line and stays out of the way when different runs and conditions
are thrown at it.
Daily Trainers (Stability)
(Shoes with some form of stability. See our Stability Guide to learn more)
(Shoes with some form of stability. See our Stability Guide to learn more)
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 is a rare high-drop, moderate stability daily trainer. A long-standing classic among stability shoes, the Inspire series had become both more stable and more clunky in its ride over recent years. Version 19 signals a change in the second part of that. While maintaining the stability from the uniquely shaped wave plate, Mizuno has continued to refine Mizuno ENERZY to make for a softer and bouncier ride. Despite a similar weight, version 19 feels far lighter while being highly cushioned. The tradition of high-quality uppers continues, with a slightly wider forefoot and a slightly snug heel. Those needing a high drop, moderate stability daily training shoe with a wider forefoot and an excellent ride should definitely check out the newest version of the Inspire.
The ASICS GT-2000 11 is a moderate stability daily training shoe with a
snugger fit for those who want a trainer on the lighter side while still
providing plenty of protection. The full ground contact outsole
combined with a medial Lite Truss system provides a solid level of
medial stability in the heel and midfoot. A cushioned ride that sits
between firm and soft provides balance and decent transition. The snug
and secure upper returns with a mesh that still accommodates some
stretch without sacrificing security. The ASICS GT-2000 is for those who
want a moderate stability shoe for daily mileage and longer efforts
with moderate heel and midfoot stability that combines some newer
concepts with a slightly more traditional ride.
Brooks Adrenaline 22 GTS | Review
Deal: $90.83 at REI
Shop Men | Shop Women
Shop Men | Shop Women
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a moderate level GuideRail-based
stability shoe for those who want a higher drop, moderately cushioned
shoe for daily miles and recovery runs. A new full length DNA Loft
midsole softens the feel slightly but continues to provide a well
cushioned but slightly responsive ride. The new upper is less
complicated and lighter, providing a more secure rearfoot hold and a
slightly more performance fit. Best for daily miles, long runs and a
little uptempo work for those who need a dependable moderate stability
trainer, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 continues as a staple stability
shoe with newer methods of stability.
Saucony Guide 16 | Review
The now surprisingly nimble Saucony Guide series returns with mild
refinements that continue to to progress it forwards in performance and
comfort. A refined upper provides a little more room while still
providing a secure and comfortable fit for those with narrow to
normal-width feet. A new PWRRUN+ insole provides a softer and slightly
bouncier ride compared to the previous model. The Hollow Tech support
frame continues to provide a moderate level medial support along with
several other guidance based approaches. The Saucony Guide 16 continues
as a comfortable stability daily trainer that runs on the lighter end
while providing consistent and well-integrated new-age support.
Performance Trainers and Racing Shoes
(Shoes for Uptempo Running, May Be Used for Daily in Some Cases)
(Shoes for Uptempo Running, May Be Used for Daily in Some Cases)
Hoka Mach 5 | Review
Deal: $97.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
The HOKA Mach 5 is a performance trainer that can do a little bit of everything. The shoe is incredibly light for the category and provides a fun and balanced ride throughout. The Profly+ midsole gets a little stiffer as you transition through the forefoot providing a responsive toe off. The ride throughout is rockered and feels a touch softer thanks to the rubberized EVA outsole. The traction is not the greatest underfoot but does okay in a decent variety of conditions. Much of the DNA from the 4 is carried over to the 5 and those that enjoy the Mach line will continue to be happy.
New Balance Rebel v3 | Review
Deal: $90.93 at REI
Shop Men | Shop Women
The New Balance Rebel v3 is a performance trainer that blends together some new generation midsole technology and the traditional low riding performance trainer feel. The shoe is soft and bouncy but still maintains a solid sensation of being grounded. The shoe can turnover quite quick and can also slow down as well. The Rebel 3 is a highly versatile option on the market.
Asics Hyper Speed 2 | Review
Deal: $59.88 at Running Warehouse
The ASICS Hyper Speed 2 is a (rare) traditional racing flat for those who want a light, lower stack height, flexible shoe for faster efforts. The upper is slightly snug and secure but has decent room throughout for this shoe type. The ride underfoot is obviously on the firmer side, but is well cushioned for how low stack this shoe is. The sole is flexible but snappy and light at 6.7 oz (men's size 9). This makes the ASICS Hyper Speed 2 a great option for those who want a non-plated, non-super foam racing shoe for 5k/10k racing and shorter workouts.
Trail Shoes
(Shoes for tackling a variety of terrain)
Trail Shoes
(Shoes for tackling a variety of terrain)
Saucony Peregrine 13 | Review
Deal: $99.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
Deal: $99.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
The Saucony Peregrine 13 and 13 ST are lightweight trail shoes
for everything from easy runs to races. Coming in at the lightest of all
prior versions, the Peregrine 13 features a slight increase in stack
height for more underfoot cushioning. Despite this, the Peregrine series
continues to provide a slightly firmer ride that can handle pace
changes and moderate mileage. The fit is slightly snug with a
full-length, secure performance fit. The lower drop continues, so those
with good ankle mobility and calf strength wanting a light and nimble
trail shoe that provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces
should definitely check out the Saucony Peregrine 13 series.
Brooks Divide 4 | Review
Deal: $77.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
Deal: $77.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
The Brooks Divide 4 is an update to this entry-level, moderate to lower
stack height road/trail hybrid shoe. Continuing to run a little lower to
the ground, the ride softens just slightly from the previous version
but continues to be snappy when you want it to be. The fit is normal and
secure, snugging up slightly from the prior version but still providing
a little room for foot swelling. A slight, unnoticeable gain in weight
has transpired, but that does nothing to stop the Divide 4 from still
being a high performer for the new runner or those who want a simple,
relatively light trail shoe for a variety of surfaces.
Brooks Catamount 2 | Review
Deal: $99.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
Deal: $99.88 at Running Warehouse
Shop Men | Shop Women
The Brooks Catamount 2 is a lighter/racing trail shoe with a moderate
stack height of DNA Flash, moderate traction, a decently snappy
forefoot, and a secure slightly snug upper. A SkyVault plate acts far
more like a rock plate than a propulsion plate, providing protection and
a decent transition off the front. The ride works best on moderate
trails and light roads but does not have enough traction for aggressive
trails. The upper is stiff and narrow, needing some time for a break-in,
but is secure and locks the foot down well. The Brooks Catamount 2 is a
neutral trail shoe for those who want a soft surface shoe that can
handle training, uptempo miles, workouts and maybe races for those
wanting a secure upper.
Saucony Blaze TR | Review
Deal: $100 at Saucony
Shop Men | Shop Women
Deal: $100 at Saucony
Shop Men | Shop Women
The Saucony Blaze TR is a budget-performance trail shoe for those who
want a lighter, high-stack option at a great price ($100). The durable
upper mesh provides a slightly snug fit that locks down well for those
needing to feel secure over a variety of terrain. The midsole is
full-length PWRRUN, providing a firmer but grounded ride despite the
higher stack height. The Blaze TR is a great option for those who want a
budget option to try trail running or others who want a second uptempo
option for softer surfaces.
Have questions? Send us an email at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
Thanks for reading!
More Guides from Doctors of Running
Beginner's Guide to Running Shoes: Are you a brand new runner and unsure where to start? Visit this guide first to get started.
Stability Shoe Resource Page: Our comprehensive guide to stability shoes and alternatives for neutral runners as well
Carbon Fiber Plated Shoes Resource Page: Want to go as fast as possible for race day? Visit this page for all of our super shoe reviews
Guide to Walking Shoes: Featuring some science behind walking and the best running shoes for walking based on our everyday testing and clinical experience working with patients.
Getting the Right Fit: Unsure if your shoe fits? Visit this page to help you determine how to find the right shoe for your feet. Comfort is one of the most important things we emphasize at Doctors of Running before you get out the door and on the road. Sometimes the right shoe for you is not what works for many others. That is why it is important to try different shoes when you can to get a better understanding of works best for your needs.
Beginner's Guide to Nutrition/Hydration: Guest writer Jennifer Giles (Registered Dietitan/Nutritionist) helps bring a new guide for fueling to Doctors of Running as part of our summer hydration series.
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