The best running shoes under $100
Quality running shoes can easily run north of $100, but they don't have to. If you're a parent or student, your finances were likely thrashed recently with back-to-school essentials like backpacks, dorm room furniture, and other supplies. If your running shoes are on their last legs, you may be wondering how to find a new, high-quality pair without depleting the rest of your funds.
"While you do not need a lot of gear to enjoy the sport we love, the one essential piece of equipment, running shoes, are (unfortunately) not cheap," says Bill Reifsnyder, a former professional runner and the CMO of athletic laundry detergent company Nonaste.
Thankfully, you can still find good deals on fitness essentials like a good pair of running shoes -- you just need to know where to look (hint: read below).
"A quality pair of running shoes [can] cost anywhere from $110 to almost $300," Reifsnyder says. "But rest assured, if you are shopping on a budget, there are recommendations to keep you happy and healthy."
Reifsnyder and more running experts share their best men's and women's running shoe recommendations under $100 ahead, plus, we found even more reviewer-loved options.
The best running shoes under $100
We know that when it comes to running shoes, there isn't a one-size-fits-all (pun intended) sneaker for everyone. Between expert recommendations and our research into the most popular and reliable shoes out there, we built a list with a good bit of variety. Here's a quick look at the best running shoes under $100.
- Most recommended: Brooks Trace 3, $100
- Most supportive running shoes: Asics Gel Contend 9, $70
- Best low-drop running shoes: Saucony Axon 3, $80 (reduced from $100)
- Cushiest running shoes: New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4, $60 (reduced from $75)
- Best trail running shoes under $100: Merrell Morphlite, $100
From specific needs like lightweight builds and extra shock absorption to sneakers that are all about traction, there's likely something for everybody on our list. Best of all, the running shoes ahead are from trusted brands like Nike, Asics, Brooks and more, but won't break the bank.
Most recommended: Brooks Trace 3
Reifsnyder, Dr. Gregory Alvarez (a podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America) and Dr. Marc Matarazzo (an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine) recommend these Brooks shoes.
"They're said to be a good shoe for beginners," says Matarazzo. "They offer good support, cushioning and flexibility."
"These come with BioMoGo DNA cushioning to provide extra shock absorption," Alvarez says. "The internal fit system ensures that the shoe fits securely and comfortably on your foot. They also feature a segmented crash pad for responsive heel-to-toe transitions."
The result is a cushy yet responsive ride in a shoe that manages to be both flexible and supportive at the same time. So, it'll handle everything from quick morning runs to longer endurance training sessions. Find them in men's and women's sizes. There are also options for standard or wide widths, depending on your foot type.
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Most supportive running shoes under $100: Asics Gel Contend 9
Runners on a budget will appreciate the Asics Gel Contend 9s. They're no-frills, high-quality running shoes with a surprisingly supportive and lightweight design. For those who struggle with over- or under-pronation, the guidance line technology gently corrects your stride. At the same time, the plush, gel-infused foam and ortholite sock liner cradles your foot and protects it from the shock of each foot strike.
"They're made by a quality running shoe company that combines durability with shock absorption to allow you to run in multiple different types of conditions," says Andrew Blakey, a certified personal trainer and director of Your Future Fitness. Find them in men's and women's sizes.
This is probably the most advanced support technology you'll find in an under-$100 running shoe.
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Best low-drop running shoes: Saucony Axon 3
"Saucony is known for making quality shoes for runners, and they don't disappoint with this running shoe that can be a great shoe for both running and casual wear," Blakey says. If you want a solid go-to choice that can hold up during jogs and errand runs alike, these might be the shoes for you.
With a tall stack (35mm) of PWRRUN foam in the midsole, each step feels cushy and comfortable. Best of all, the low 4mm heel-toe drop means you get thick cushioning under your entire foot, not just your heel. That's great news for midfoot or forefoot strikers. It's also a great design for people who tend to struggle with foot pain or plantar fasciitis.
Already a great deal at full price, these Saucony Axon 3 running shoes are on sale right now. Get a pair for $80, instead of $100.
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Cushiest running shoes: New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
"This shoe features a lightweight mesh upper with a seamless construction to provide breathability," Alvarez says. "The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides exceptional comfort and responsiveness, while the rubber outsole provides excellent traction."
Built as a daily trainer, it's both soft and lightweight. The 6mm heel-toe drop is also on the low side, making this a good pick for runners who tend to strike with their midfoot or forefoot first.
Right now, you can get them while they're on sale at New Balance for just $60 (reduced from $75).
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Best trail running shoes on a budget: Merrell Morphlite
If you want to start trail running, your regular daily running shoes won't do. You need traction and grip you can rely on along with a bit of extra support to stabilize your feet on uneven terrain. A great shoe to start with is the Merrell Morphlite. It's a mixed terrain shoe with a sticky rubber outsole that bites nicely into gravel or dirt and sticks firmly to slippery surfaces like boulders.
While it won't hold up to super technical terrain, it's a comfortable and dependable mixed-terrain trail running shoe that's great for beginners or casual trail runners.
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More top-rated running shoes under $100
- Last year's version of Brook's cushiest running shoes: Brooks Ghost 15, $100 (reduced from $140)
- Nike's best under-$100 trail running shoes: Nike Juniper Trail 3, $90
- Great for the treadmill and your wallet: New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8, $64 and up (reduced from $80)
- A super lightweight shoe for heel strikers: Asics Versablast 3, $50 (reduced from $80)
- Best Nike daily trainers under $100: Nike Revolution 7, $70
Is $100 enough to spend on a good pair of running shoes?
"There are many high-quality running shoes that you can pick up for $100 that can provide you with all the things you require in a good solid shoe," Blakey says. So long as you know what you're looking for (and at), there are some solid choices out there that are also budget-friendly.
If you're new to running, simply aren't interested in all the bells and whistles that come with some expensive shoes, or don't have any injuries that need tending to, $100 should suffice for running shoes you'll be happy with.
One easy way to get quality at a lower price point is to shop clearance shoes. Whenever a new model launches, the previous year's version typically drops in price. So that's the perfect opportunity for budget-conscious runners to snag a premium running shoe with a sub-$100 price tag.
Running shoes need to be swapped out regularly (every 300 to 500 miles, according to REI), so their cost can easily add up if you're always opting for expensive pairs.
How we chose these running shoes
- Customer reviews: We combed through verified customer reviews – in other words, real buyers – to ensure they were consistently pleased with these brands and models.
- Expert recommendations: We spoke with former professional runner and Nonaste CMO Bill Reifsnyder; certified personal trainer and Your Future Fitness director Andrew Blakey; podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America Dr. Gregory Alvarez; and orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine Dr. Marc Matarazzo for product recommendations and advice.
- Star rating: All of these products have a four-star rating or higher, so you know you're getting high-quality running shoes all throughout our list.
- Your needs: We considered your needs for different widths, colors and more when choosing these running shoes.
