Running shoes are often expensive. The Nike Alphafly 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Elite, some of the top-of-line marathon racing shoes come in at a whopping $275. Not everyone can afford that. Heck, you may be able to afford it but aren’t willing to spend that much on a pair of shoes. We don’t blame you. And that’s why we compiled our Best Cheap Running Shoes list.
On this page, we identify high-performing running shoes you can enjoy without worrying about the price. The good news is there are quite a few of them available at any time. The better news is that we’ve found them for you and put them in one easy-to-read place. We update the Best Cheap Running Shoes list with new currently available budget running sneakers on a regular basis.
If you wish to browse all of our detailed running shoe reviews, you can check out our Running Shoe reviews page. If you’d like to browse the best running shoes available, go to our Best Running Shoes list.
Categories are used below so you can easily find what you want. If you know what you need, you can simply click the category. If not, feel free to read through the whole list.
We would also like to hear your thoughts on the list or see your own list. Please share in the comments below.
Updated: 05.17.2023
Let’s get into our picks:
Best Cheap Running Shoes
New Balance FuelCell Propel v4
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 has the best value proposition of any shoe on the market. $110 for a bouncy Fuelcell midsole and a TPU plate? That alone raises my eyebrows.
The upper isn’t spectacular but it’s comfortable. The tongue can be slippy, it’s a little on the heavy side, and the traction is solid. Durability is a big question mark because there’s not a ton of rubber on the outsole and it wears down pretty fast. But, at $110, a price serviceable daily running shoes don’t touch anymore, sacrificing some durability and comfort is expected.
The end result is a shoe that’s perfect for a wide range of runners. It’s also great for cost-conscious parents that need solid running shoes for kids running track or cross country (and growing out of the shoes way too fast). I’d recommend the Propel v4 over Nike’s current Pegasus and several other $130-150 models. Watch Kofuzi’s review.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 6mm, Price $110
Saucony Kinvara 14
The Saucony Kinvara 14 is a lightweight, breathable but firmer trainer with a very good value proposition at $120. And while it may be too firm for larger runners or when your legs are absolutely crushed from a hard workout the day before, it’ll work well in most other circumstances. The upper, though built with just regular mesh, does include a gusseted tongue that locks the foot down nicely and keeps everything in place. The outsole, though light on rubber, there are only two small sections, grips extremely well with its wavy foam pattern. Though the Kinvara 14 is somewhat minimal, it’s perfect if you want less shoe. And, the lightweight, flexible build is great for elementary or middle school kids just beginning their running journey. Saucony thankfully realized this and made the Kinvara 14 available in kid sizes as well.
Fit: True to Size, Drop: 4mm, Price: $120
Reebok Floatride Energy 5
The Reebok Floatride Energy 5 delivers plenty of value for $110. The Floatride midsole starts out a bit firm but breaks in nicely. The subtle rocker and good impact protection make for a nice ride. The upper fixes the two issues from the Floatride Energy 4 but isn’t as comfy overall. It’s also not wide foot friendly. But the traction grips well and doesn’t show wear easily which has us thinking it will be plenty durable. Once again, Reebok provides a very good running shoe without a heavy investment. Read the full review.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $110
Hoka Rincon 3
The Hoka Rincon 3 is so good it’s on the Best Running Shoes page. This very lightweight shoe somehow offers a ton of cushioning at the same time. It clocks in at 7.3 oz in a men’s size 9, light for a running shoe. If you want a pair that will cater to your speed day needs, there are only a few other options available that are better (at any price point). The meta rocker also gives you that gliding sensation. To top it all off, the shoe is incredibly accommodating and works for most foot shapes.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 5mm, Price: $125
Cost to Make a Running Shoe
If you’ve ever wondered how much it costs brands like Nike and adidas to make a running shoe and get it to a store, you can read our article on how much it costs to produce a running shoe.
Best Running Shoes on Sale
Deal shopping last year’s models once they go on sale can be the most cost-efficient way to buy new running shoes. In addition to the shoes listed below, Running Warehouse always has deals available for many Men’s and Women’s running shoes and gear. Other brands and retailers do too and we update our Deals page daily so you can get the best bang for your buck any time you’re shopping for new shoes.
adidas Supernova 2
The adidas Supernova 2 is the only way to get an old-school Boost and Bounce cushioning combo for your daily running shoes. The Boost in the heel is stable but still provides impact protection. The Bounce in the forefoot makes it easy to forcefully push off your toes. The collar and tongue are ultra-padded and therefore great for all-day wear (they pass the theme park test). The tongue can slip to the side but not everyone will have that problem. And the traction looks odd but works well. It’s only $100 in a running category where it’s rare to find good performers under $120-$130.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 9mm, Price: $100
Nike React Infinity Run 2
The Nike React Infinity Run 2 showcases a full-length React midsole that won’t wear down as fast as other forms. The traction is exceptional even in wet weather conditions, so you don’t have to worry about slipping when you want to run in the rain. The Flyknit has also been improved with additional padding over the original, making it both more supportive and comfortable. Please read our complete comparison with the first Nike React Infinity Run.
Fit: True to Size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $160
Thinking of a shoe we should add to the best cheap running shoes list? Comment below or message us on Instagram or Twitter.
