10 Best Affordable Running Shoes in 2025, According to Experts

Feel like running shoes get more high-tech every year? You’re not wrong. “There’s a lot of research and development that goes into the running shoe,” running coach Amie Dworecki tells SELF. Cutting-edge materials and designs can lead to expensive price tags. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a good deal: The best affordable running shoes are still out there.

One strategy is to buy older models, which brands typically put on sale whenever they release an updated version. Last year, RunRepeat, a site that collects running stats, found that 56% of all running shoes are available at a 30% to 69% discount online.

You can also hunt for running shoes that are cheaper to begin with. Many brands sell less expensive versions of their popular models with materials that are just a little less advanced, Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, a podiatrist who owns a specialty running shop, tells SELF. And if you’re a casual runner who just heads out for one or two low-key runs each week, “I don’t think you’re going to notice much of a difference,” he says.

Sound like you? We’ve got your back: SELF tracked down budget-friendly running shoes that’ll help you get some miles in without hurting your wallet. Shop our recs below.

Our top picks

1. Best Overall: New Balance FuelCell Propel v5, $120 $98
2. Best for Beginners: Adidas Supernova Ease, $100 $90
3. Most Breathable: Nike Interact Run, $116
4. Best for Marathons: New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8, $80 $65
5. Best for the Treadmill: Nike Downshifter 13, $78
6. Best for Track Running: Saucony Kinvara 15, $120
7. Best for Trail Running: Asics Gel-Venture 10, $80 $65
8. Most Versatile: Reebok Floatride Energy 6, $92
9. Best Stability Shoes: Asics GT-1000 13, $110 $100
10. Best for Cross-Training: Brooks Revel 7, $100

Shop the best budget-friendly running shoes

Check out these pairs that runners and coaches love.

Best Overall: New Balance FuelCell Propel v5

The FuelCell Propel v5 outperforms its price point. Made with soft FuelCell foam and a peppy thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) plate in the midsole, you can get a surprisingly fun, springy ride out of this budget-friendly shoe. Runners wear them for everything from easy runs to faster workouts and even races.

“I’ve had the last four or five models, and they’re consistently great, with only positive changes,” Kali Otis, a marathon runner in Massachusetts, tells SELF. The Propels are her go-to choice for easy and recovery runs, when comfort is key. “I love that they’re always supportive for running, but also stylish enough to wear casually,” she says. (Post-run brunch, anyone?)

Best for Beginners: Adidas Supernova Ease

These shoes are a pared-down version of Adidas’ super-comfy (and SELF editor-approved) Supernova Rise. The main difference is that the Ease has Dreamstrike cushioning, instead of the Rise’s smoother, bouncier Dreamstrike+. Still, reviewers consistently rave about how comfortable the Supernova Ease feels.

In addition to the soft foam midsole, you also get plenty of padding around the ankle to keep your foot cradled in place (without causing unnecessary blisters). Adidas recommends this shoe for everyday runs up to 12 miles—perfect for beginners who don’t want to shell out extra cash just for some spring in their step.

Most Breathable: Nike Interact Run

The Interact is Nike’s first running shoe that has the brand’s comfy, airy Flyknit upper on a shoe under $100. This woven upper feels more like wearing a supportive sock on the top and sides of your foot—it’s not so stiff that you’ll get blisters or hotspots. It even has more breathable zones right over the toe box, where your feet are most likely to get hot and sweaty. There are also extra overlays around the edges to help make sure a toe doesn’t pop through the fabric (though some reviewers say the knit can still tear with heavy wear).

Meanwhile, under your foot, the midsole features a thick stack of Nike’s Bio IP foam, known to be the company’s softest cushion. So, no matter how hot it gets out, you can still count on an easy, breezy ride.

Best for Marathons: New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8

You’ll often see some fancy shoes at the starting line of a marathon. Serious runners going for a new personal record will often opt for a fancier carbon-plated “super shoe” that could cost $300 or more, Dworecki says. But if you’re just trying to enjoy your 26.2-mile journey to the finish line, she says you could absolutely wear more budget-friendly running shoes—though she does suggest sticking with a reputable brand, like New Balance. (A marathon is not the time to test your luck with an unknown manufacturer.)

One smart option: The Fresh Foam 680s, a more affordable take on New Balance’s best-selling Fresh Foam X 1080s. It’s slightly less cushioned, but still plenty spongy (for less than half the price). Just know that many reviewers say they’ve had to size up to get a roomy enough fit—which you’ll need on race day, so your feet have plenty of space to swell as the miles add up.

Best for the Treadmill: Nike Downshifter 13

This shoe is based on the design of one of Nike’s most popular running shoes: the Pegasus. “The Pegasus has been around for a really long time,” Dworecki says, adding that she ran her first marathon in the Pegasus. “The Downshifter is built on the Pegasus, just made to be more affordable.” As a result, the Downshifter is plenty padded and comfortable. “You get pretty good performance for the price,” she says.