The Sports Equipment GuideRunning shoes for beginners
What to look for in your first pair, and how to spend less.
If you are new to running, you want shoes that are comfortable, fit properly and do not cost a fortune. You do not need the newest or the most expensive.
What to look for
- Good fit first. Try them on, walk and jog a little, and leave room for your toes.
- A well-cushioned neutral daily trainer is the safe starting point for most people.
- A stability shoe only if you find it more comfortable, or a running shop suggests it after watching you run.
- No carbon plate. Racing shoes are for racing.
Shoes that suit new runners
| Shoe | Cushioning | Support | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asics Gel-Kayano 32 | High cushioning | Stability shoe | £108.50 at Sports Direct |
| Asics Gel-Phoenix 13 | Moderate cushioning | Neutral shoe | £55.00 at Sports Direct |
| Asics Superblast 3 | Max cushioning | Neutral shoe | £199.99 at Sports Direct |
| Hoka Arahi 9 | High cushioning | Stability shoe | £125.99 at SportsShoes.com |
| Hoka Clifton 11 | High cushioning | Neutral shoe | £106.99 at Northern Runner |
| Asics Novablast 6 | High cushioning | Neutral shoe | £110.00 at Sports Direct |
If you are on a tight budget
These came top when we capped the budget at £90.
| Shoe | Cushioning | Support | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoka Skyflow | High cushioning | Neutral shoe | £89.99 at SportsShoes.com |
| Asics Gel-Phoenix 13 | Moderate cushioning | Neutral shoe | £55.00 at Sports Direct |
| adidas Adizero Evo SL | High cushioning | Neutral shoe | £77.99 at SportsShoes.com |
| Asics GT-1000 14 | Moderate cushioning | Stability shoe | £85.00 at Sports Direct |
This list comes straight from our matching tool for a beginner who wants comfortable cushioning. Commission plays no part. Ratings are estimates from the type of shoe, not lab tests, and prices were what each shop listed on 21 October (some shops price colours differently), so check the price at the shop.
Spend less: last season’s model
When a new version launches, the old one often drops a lot in price and is rarely much worse. Several of the shoes above are previous models for that reason. Check the size and fit before you buy, since a bargain that does not fit is no bargain.
For more to browse, SportsShoes.com stocks a large range of running shoes, including last season’s models.