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The 18 Best Running Shoes for Every Budget and Activity

Hina Maris
  Apr 19, 2024 8:41 PM

There are almost as many running shoe options as there are runners. And with so many different styles, shapes, and price points to choose from, it’s not always obvious which shoes will best suit your needs and preferences. Fortunately, there are plenty of different resources for finding the best running shoes for your budget and activity level. 
If you have been running for some time and want to take things up a notch, investing in proper running shoes can go a long way toward improving performance and reducing risk of injury. Running can be an impactful activity on the body. It places significant strain on bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and other connective tissues because of the nature of the movement involved – all while putting very little stress on the cardio respiratory system (aside from during peak intensity periods). That being said, most people who run at least once or twice a week will benefit greatly from a good pair of running shoes as they offer support in key areas while also managing sweat and moisture levels more efficiently than typical everyday sneakers. In this article we’ll discuss everything you need to know about finding the best running shoes for your needs, including what to look for when purchasing new footwear and our top recommendations for every budget and activity level.

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1
Brooks Womens Ghost 14 Peacoat/Yucca/Navy 8.5 B - Medium
Brooks Womens Ghost 14 Peacoat/Yucca/Navy 8.5 B - Medium
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  • SCORE
    9.8
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Brooks
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the run. The Ghost 14 offers a simplified midsole construction which creates more seamless transitions. This Brooks Ghost 14 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.

SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The Ghost 14 offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 502

BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever. DNA LOFT now makes up the entire midsole, for a softer, smoother, ride.

SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad - an integrated system of shock absorbers - will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

SOFT, SECURE, FIT: More strategic use of the 3D Fit Print upper technology provides structure that moves with the foot.

TOP Choice
2
Brooks Womens Ghost 14 Cadet/Thistle/Papaya Punch 8 B - Medium
Brooks Womens Ghost 14 Cadet/Thistle/Papaya Punch 8 B - Medium
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  • SCORE
    9.6
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Brooks
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the run. The Ghost 14 offers a simplified midsole construction which creates more seamless transitions. This Brooks Ghost 14 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.

SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The Ghost 14 offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 311

BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever. DNA LOFT now makes up the entire midsole, for a softer, smoother, ride.

SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad - an integrated system of shock absorbers - will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

SOFT, SECURE, FIT: More strategic use of the 3D Fit Print upper technology provides structure that moves with the foot.

TOP Choice
3
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes, 8.5, White/Black
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes, 8.5, White/Black
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  • SCORE
    9.4
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

Guidance Line Midsole Technology - Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.

Guidance Line Midsole Technology - Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.

4
Under Armour mens Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe, Black (003 Black, 10.5 US
Under Armour mens Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe, Black (003 Black, 10.5 US
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  • SCORE
    9.2
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Under Armour
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete breathability

Durable leather overlays for stability & that locks in your midfoot

EVA sockliner provides soft, step-in comfort

Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for ultimate responsiveness & durability

Solid rubber outsole covers high impact zones for greater durability with less weight

Offset: 10mm

NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning

Lace type: Standard tie

5
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes, 15, Graphite Grey/Sheet Rock
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes, 15, Graphite Grey/Sheet Rock
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  • SCORE
    9.2
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system - Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance

AHAR Outsole - Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.

Removable Sockliner - A sockliner which can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic.

Trail Specific Outsole - Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain

6
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoes, 11, White/Black
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoes, 11, White/Black
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  • SCORE
    9.2
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

AmpliFoam Midsole - Engineered to maintain durability at softer densities, providing better flexibility, comfort, and platform adaptability ideal for natural running.

Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system - Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.

Ortholite Sockliner - Moisture management (Ortholite is a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing LLC).

Engineered Mesh Upper - Multi-directional mesh material improves ventilation and stability.

7
ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 6 Twist Running Shoes, 10, Graphite Grey/Techno Cyan
ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 6 Twist Running Shoes, 10, Graphite Grey/Techno Cyan
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  • SCORE
    9.2
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
8
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 Men's Running Shoe nkBQ9646 002 (10) Black White
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 Men's Running Shoe nkBQ9646 002 (10) Black White
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  • SCORE
    9.2
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Nike
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

Nike

Mens Shoes

Running Shoes

Black/White

Synthetic & Rubber

9
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes, 11, French Blue/Pure Silver
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes, 11, French Blue/Pure Silver
View on Amazon
  • SCORE
    9.0
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

GEL Technology - Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption

Re-engineered outsole lugs for better off-road traction -

10
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture® 8 Running Shoe, 8.5, Carrier Grey/Ginger Peach
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture® 8 Running Shoe, 8.5, Carrier Grey/Ginger Peach
View on Amazon
  • SCORE
    9.0
    EFR Score

    EFRScore is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our EFR tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    ASICS
Product Highlights Customer Reviews

GEL Technology - Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption

Re-engineered outsole lugs for better off-road traction -

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQS

1. What are running shoes?
Running shoes are shoes that are specifically designed to help you run. They are made with special materials and construction that provide support, cushioning, and stability to help you run more efficiently and comfortably.
 
2. What are they made of?
Running shoes are typically made of a combination of materials, including mesh or synthetic uppers for breathability and light weight, EVA or other foam midsoles for cushioning, and rubber outsoles for durability and traction.
 
3. How do they help you run?
Running shoes help you run by providing support, cushioning, and stability. The different materials and construction of running shoes help to absorb impact, protect your feet from the elements, and provide traction so you can run more efficiently and comfortably.
 
4. What are the different types of running shoes?
There are different types of running shoes designed for different types of runners and different running surfaces. Some common types of running shoes include trail running shoes, racing flats, and cross-training shoes.
 
5. How do you choose the right pair of running shoes?
When choosing a pair of running shoes, it is important to consider your foot type, running style, and the type of running surface you will be running on. You may also want to consult with a running coach or shoe specialist to find the best pair of running shoes for you.
4.3
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