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Running can be done on a budget. Whether you’re training for your first 5k or are a seasoned athlete, these are some of our top picks for low budget running shoes. This list will be divided by race type starting from beginner/5k and working up to marathon distances.
The shoes do get progressively better going down, but not necessarily more expensive
Just because you fit in one category doesn’t mean you can't get a shoe from another group! Explore all the options we listed!
Ultramarathon budget shoes are listed at the bottom too.
Another way to save money on running is by clicking here to get access to our entirely FREE running plans and more coming February 21st ranging from training for your first 5k to a 100 Mile Race. We want to help you achieve your goals!
Click bellow:
Guide
The page goes from beginner down to Marathon (42 km) or more.
ASICS JOLT 3: Beginner - cheapest option
Saucony Endorphin Shift 3: 5k-Marathon+ - Our Top Choice
ASICS JOLT 3 Running Shoes: Beginner
ASICS has been in the game since 1949, so they have a long history of putting out great shoes. One that especially stuck out to us was the JOLT 3. The JOLT 3 is a great beginner shoe because it can be worn for so much more than just running. It is a great gym shoe that can be paired with running since it has a fairly flat bottom.
Key Features:
10 oz (290 grams)
Foam absorbing midsole
Outsole composing of AHAR+ compound
AHAR+ Reduces wear and aids contact absorption
AHAR+ Also allows for great traction on wet surfaces
Breathable mesh fabric
Good for a hybrid athlete going to the gym and running
Weighing in at just over 10 oz (290) grams, the JOLT 3 is one of the most versatile shoes on this list. They can take you from the gym to running miles outside. The JOLT 3 has a midsole that includes a foam that absorbs running's impact and will help with balance. The outsole also has the edition of AHAR+ compound that allows for excellent traction.
The material is breathable because of its mesh design, allowing your feet to “breathe” during your runs. This mesh has synthetic reinforcements that will ensure the fabric won’t break down throughout the miles you put in on the road or trail.
The ASICS JOLT 3 is a great choice for runners wanting shoes for the gym and running both medium and short distances.
Adidas Duramo 10 Running Shoe: 5k-10k
In our opinion, the Duramo 10 is an excellent shoe compared to its price of under $40. The shoe comes in a wide range of over 30 colors offering a very modern sleek look. We were able to find this shoe for under $40 linked below in the Halo Silver color, however, the prices fluctuate, so other colors may be cheaper at different times.
Key Features:
9.7 oz (275 grams)
Somewhat breathable due to Perforated Fabric
Fabric made from 50% Recycled Materials
Full rubber outsole for shoe protection/longevity
Insole made with Adidas's LIGHTMOTION cushioning technology
The Duramo 10 is lighter than the JOLT 3’s and the average running shoe - 10.5 oz (299 grams). The Duramo 10 is a somewhat breathable shoe due to its perforated fabric made from over 50% recycled materials that allow heat to escape.
The Duramo 10’s also have a full rubber outsole that keeps the cushioned insole protected from being damaged by the miles put in. This rubber outsole also gives the Duramo an excellent grip for snowy or rainy runs.
The insole is made of Adidas’s LIGHTMOTION cushioning technology that provides even support throughout the foot. There is a soft heel that can help prevent injuries from heel striking.
The Adidas Duramo 10 is a great shoe for runners putting in one to five miles in a day multiple times a week. Its durability and light weight make it an excellent choice for the cost.
The Energen Plus 2 is an excellent shoe for runners looking to do distances between 5k to Half Marathon. This shoe stands apart from the previous three in weight, fabric, and midsole.
Features of Fresh Foam Arishi V4
Excelent Cushioning
Lightweight 8.8 oz (250 grams)
Very Flexible
Good Traction
Easily broken in
Meaning the shoe will quickly adjust to your foot
Breathable Mesh Fabric
AMAZING Prices when sorting through colors
The Fresh Foam Arishi V4 provides a great flow and padding utilizing New Balance's Fresh Foam technology to give the Arishi V4 an excellent amount of support for long distance runs. The rubber outsole is very protective for the midsole and offers hyper traction.
The rubber toe bumper on the front will protect the fabric from breaking down. The fabric is made from lighter materials which support the Arishi V4's amazing lightweight 8.8 oz (250 grams) is well below the average trainer weight of 10.5 oz (299 grams). This is an excellent shoe for runners trying to increase to longer distances while staying very cost-effective.
Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 Running Shoe: 5k- Marathon - UltraMarathon
These are our top pick out of any of the shoes on this list if you can spend around $10 more. They offer more features than the other shoes and could be beneficial for runners at any point in their running journey. However, we especially recommend these for runners training for Marathon or Ultra Marathon distances.
The Endorphin Shift 3 is an elite-level running shoe for cheaper than most similar shoes on the market. This shoe is one to be considered even when not on a budget and should be considered by any runner from beginner to marathoner.
Note:
If you’re competing in marathon distances, you probably will want to spend slightly more on your running shoes because of the amount of stress you are going to be putting on your body for months of training before race day.
Features of Endorphin Shift 3
Built-in speed technology
Uses Speedroll Geometry to roll with your foot
This allows for quicker running
Very thick cushioning for comfort
9.4 oz (266 grams)
Thin Mesh Fabric for Ventilation
Built-in Stability to reduce ankle injuries
Saucony didn't hold back on this shoe. (I'm not kidding) One of the biggest upgrades on the Endorphin Shift 3’s over the other shoes on this list is the built-in speedroll geometry. This causes your steps to roll from your ankle to your foot, allowing for faster running. This rocker geometry will be very beneficial for fast or long running such as the Marathon.
The thin mesh fabric allows for significantly better ventilation compared to Shift 2. The outsole doesn't have crazy traction for super muddy trails, but it can easily get the job done on road and dry trails.
Check us out on Strava where we'll be sharing more great running tips!
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