The Best Running Shoes for Beginners According to Experts
We consulted experts and tested the latest releases from Under Armour, Nike, Adidas, New Balance and more to find the best running shoes for beginners.
When it comes to picking the perfect running shoes, comfort is king. Sure, there are other factors like price, style, and the type of running you'll be doing. But let's face it, if the shoe doesn’t fit right, none of those matters. Everyone’s feet are different, so it's crucial to head to the store and try on a few pairs yourself instead of getting swayed by the latest Instagram ad or shoe hype. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Venetta Devi Ramachandran, better known as Vee, a physiotherapist at The Stretch Clinic, puts it simply: “Try a couple of different kinds of shoes on your feet and just see what generally feels the best for you.” While you're at it, think about what you really want in a running shoe. Is it a snug fit, extra cushioning, or a certain feel that makes you think, "This is the one"?
Pro runners have their preferences dialled in, but beginners might need to experiment a bit. Thankfully, some shoes are perfect for new runners because of their natural features—like ample cushioning and non-aggressive designs that offer a balanced experience. These features help beginners get a feel for what they like, making it easier to choose the next pair.
Here, we’ve rounded up the best shoes for beginners, based on our own testing and recommendations from running experts.
Under Armour has revamped its springy, supportive UA Infinite Pro, making it lighter and airier with a translucent mesh upper. So when the sun's beating down on those hot preseason runs, your feet stay extra cool. Plus, it features UA HOVR™+ cushioning technology, which returns energy and helps propel you forward.
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The Gel Nimbus is renowned for its maximum cushioning, especially in the heel. Even when standing, you can feel the support as your heels sink into a springy, pillow-like comfort. Featuring Asics’ signature gel pod for shock absorption, it also boasts a stretchy, sock-like upper and a roomy toe box.
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Like many of Nike’s athletic shoes, the Pegasus generally works best with narrow feet (though wide sizes are available). It's a great starter shoe thanks to its neutral, straightforward design, which can help you determine what you might prefer in your next pair—whether that's a shoe with a more aggressive rocker, more cushioning, or simply another pair of Pegs.
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If you crave a soft, plush feel underfoot with every stride, check out the New Balance 1080s. Whether you need a recovery day shoe to sink your feet into, a long-run shoe that can devour miles, or even a shoe for your first marathon, the 1080s are a reliable choice.
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The Hoka Mach 6 features a narrow construction with bouncy, responsive cushioning in both the heel and forefoot, making it ideal for a quick turnover or cadence. It's a fantastic option for beginner runners seeking a faster shoe for races.
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The On Cloudmonster 2 isn't just a head-turner with its unique design—it's also a top-notch training ally. Despite its premium price tag, the investment is worth it for the high-end materials, exceptionally spacious upper, dynamic and stable ride, and outstanding durability.
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The Ghost is a renowned daily trainer from Brooks, and the v15 is a top recommendation for its exceptional comfort and durability. Perfect for daily training at varying speeds, it’s especially beneficial for heel strikers thanks to its generous cushioning and substantial heel-to-toe drop. With a modern update and availability in up to four widths, it remains a versatile and reasonably priced option.
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Unlike some shoes loaded with foam, the Triumph offers a forgiving, flexible forefoot for a closer-to-the-ground feel. It's our go-to for days when the pace isn't a priority, especially after a series of runs in max-cushioned shoes, including those with carbon-fibre plates that minimize foot muscle engagement.
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The Adizero Adios Pro 3 shines as one of the premier racing shoes on the market, if not the very best. Its exceptional stability sets a new benchmark for performance footwear, and we discovered that the full-length Energyrods seamlessly complement the lively Lightstrike Pro foam during our high-speed runs. Thanks to its wider design, it caters to individuals with wider feet and maintains excellent grip even in wet conditions.
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The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 fell short of our performance expectations—the midsole lacked the springiness we anticipated, especially compared to the latest super shoes. However, during our long runs and tempo sessions, it proved to be a reliable companion. While it may not meet the standards of top-tier performance seekers, it remains a strong contender for runners in search of a versatile shoe that can handle occasional races.
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