When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Shoes For New Runners (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for shoes for new runners, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider before making your purchase. Running shoes can vary greatly in terms of their support, cushioning, and overall fit, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for in a shoe.

First and foremost, you’ll want to consider your foot type. Depending on whether you have a high arch, low arch, or neutral arch, you’ll need different levels of support in your shoe. Additionally, you’ll want to think about the amount of cushioning you need in the sole of the shoe. If you’re prone to heel pain or other foot problems, you’ll likely want a shoe with more cushioning than someone who doesn’t have those issues.

Another factor to consider is the material of the shoe. Shoes made from breathable materials can be helpful for those who have issues with foot odor or sweat. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a shoe with good traction to help prevent slipping and injuries.

Are you a new runner looking for the perfect shoe to help you reach your goals? Do you have specific concerns about your foot type or comfort level when it comes to running shoes? Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the right shoes for your beginner running journey. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in a shoe and be ready to make an informed decision.

10 Best Shoes For New Runners

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for women who enjoy trail running and need a durable shoe with good grip.
2
This product is ideal for trail running with a lightweight design and durable sole for various terrains.
3
The product is ideal for individuals looking for stylish and comfortable platform sneakers with a unique design.
4
The product is ideal for trail running and provides comfort and support with its fresh foam technology.
5
Ideal for women runners seeking comfortable and supportive shoes with fresh foam technology, in a thistle/magnetic blue colorway.
6
The product is ideal for individuals seeking comfortable and breathable shoes to wear for sports, fitness, and casual walking or jogging.
7
The product is ideal for running and leisure activities with its comfortable design and color scheme.
8
The product is ideal for trail running and provides a comfortable fit in black/magnet color.
9
Ideal for trail running with a lightweight barefoot design, available in forest color and size 11.5 for men.
10
The product is ideal for women who want a comfortable and durable shoe for running on hiking trails.
The product is ideal for women who enjoy trail running and need a durable shoe with good grip.
This product is ideal for trail running with a lightweight design and durable sole for various terrains.
The product is ideal for individuals looking for stylish and comfortable platform sneakers with a unique design.
The product is ideal for trail running and provides comfort and support with its fresh foam technology.
Ideal for women runners seeking comfortable and supportive shoes with fresh foam technology, in a thistle/magnetic blue colorway.
The product is ideal for individuals seeking comfortable and breathable shoes to wear for sports, fitness, and casual walking or jogging.
The product is ideal for running and leisure activities with its comfortable design and color scheme.
The product is ideal for trail running and provides a comfortable fit in black/magnet color.
Ideal for trail running with a lightweight barefoot design, available in forest color and size 11.5 for men.
The product is ideal for women who want a comfortable and durable shoe for running on hiking trails.

1. New Balance Women's 510 V5 Trail Running Shoe, Gunmetal/wax Blue/wax Blue, 8

The Cushioned Running Shoes are the perfect blend of comfort and durability. They feature ABZORB midsole technology that offers a combination of cushioning and compression resistance to absorb impact. The rubber outsole provides strength and durability, allowing for long-term use. The Toe Protect technology helps to protect feet from rocks, roots, and debris, while the AT Tread on the outsole offers versatile traction during on- and off-road activities. The injection-molded EVA foam midsoles provide lightweight cushioning, and the NB Soft + Supportive Insert offers memory comfort that lasts. These trail running shoes are built to last with an all-over durable construction and an aggressive lugged outsole that can withstand all your outdoor activities. The synthetic and mesh uppers provide breathability and a top-quality fit, making these running shoes ideal for those who are looking for both style and comfort.

Pros

  • ABZORB midsole technology for cushioning and compression resistance
  • Rubber outsole for strength and durability
  • Toe Protect technology for protecting feet from rocks, roots, and debris
  • AT Tread for versatile traction during on- and off-road activities
  • Injection-molded EVA foam midsoles for lightweight cushioning
  • NB Soft + Supportive Insert for memory comfort that lasts
  • Aggressive lugged outsole for durability
  • Synthetic and mesh uppers for breathability and a top-quality fit

2. New Balance Men's Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoe, Black/silver, 9.5 M Us

Experience ultimate comfort and support with the Acteva midsole running shoes. These shoes provide a 4mm drop, which is approximate due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes. The Acteva midsole is designed to give you a cushioned and responsive feel with every step, allowing you to go the distance with ease. The shoes are made with high-quality materials that ensure durability and breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during your workouts. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, these shoes are perfect for anyone looking for comfort and support in their daily runs.

Pros

  • Acteva midsole provides cushioned and responsive feel
  • High-quality materials ensure durability and breathability
  • 4mm drop provides ultimate comfort and support

3. Motion Canvas Converse Runners – Black & White

The Converse Unisex Shoes are a fashionable and versatile choice for any wardrobe. These shoes feature a classic black and white colorway with a gum sole, making them easy to pair with a variety of outfits.

Crafted from high-quality synthetic materials, these shoes are durable and long-lasting. The rubber sole provides excellent traction, making them suitable for a range of activities. The lace-up design ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the padded collar and insole offer additional comfort and support.

Whether you're running errands, going for a walk, or hitting the gym, the Converse Unisex Shoes are a stylish and practical choice. So why wait? Add them to your shoe collection today and enjoy all they have to offer!

Pros

  • Fashionable and versatile black and white colorway with a gum sole
  • Crafted from high-quality synthetic materials for durability
  • Rubber sole provides excellent traction for a range of activities
  • Lace-up design ensures a secure and comfortable fit
  • Padded collar and insole offer additional comfort and support

4. Nb Fresh Foam Trail Running Shoe, Xl.

The shoes feature a textile upper that ensures durability and comfort during wear. The AT Tread dual-use outsole tread is designed to combine both trial and lug designs, making it suitable for both on- and off-road use. This provides a versatile experience for the wearer, as they can transition from different terrains with ease. The Toe Protect feature is another added benefit that reinforces the toe tip to help protect the toes from potential injuries. The shoes also have a sleek design that enhances the overall appeal.

Pros

  • Textile upper ensures durability and comfort
  • AT Tread dual-use outsole tread is versatile for on- and off-road use
  • Toe Protect feature reinforces toe tip for added protection
  • Sleek design enhances overall appeal

5. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Evare V1 Running Shoe, Thistle/magnetic Blue, 7

Designed specifically for runners, these cushioned running shoes offer impressive softness that can keep up with your daily runs. The shoes feature a molded sockliner that adds to the luxurious feel. The Fresh Foam Evare is perfect for the active individual who wants both fashion and function. With its fierce exterior and comfortable construction, it is sure to impress both on and off the track.

These comfortable running shoes offer cutting-edge comfort with Fresh Foam midsole cushioning and additional stack height, providing even more cushioning underfoot. The lightweight engineered mesh uppers with no-sew overlays give a breathable and fast feel to these sleek New Balance running shoes. The Ground Contact EVA outsole provides durable support so you can run with confidence on a variety of surfaces.

The Fresh Foam Evare running shoes have everything that a runner could ask for: softness, support, durability, and style. The shoes are designed to help you achieve your running goals with ease, no matter what type of surface you're running on. With these shoes on your feet, you'll feel like you can conquer anything.

Pros

  • Designed specifically for runners
  • Impressive softness for daily runs
  • Molded sockliner for luxurious feel
  • Cutting-edge comfort with Fresh Foam midsole cushioning
  • Additional stack height for even more cushioning underfoot
  • Breathable and fast feel with engineered mesh uppers and no-sew overlays
  • Ground Contact EVA outsole for durable support on a variety of surfaces
  • Sleek and stylish design

6. Breathable Orange Sneakers For Men's Active Lifestyle

Experience comfort like never before with these slip-on shoes. The breathable fabric ensures that your feet stay cool and dry throughout the day. The design is not only easy to wear but also fashionable and goes well with everything. The non-slip wear-resistant outsole provides excellent grip and durability, making these shoes suitable for a variety of activities such as casual wear, walking, running, driving, training, indoor and outdoor sports, travel, and workout. Choose from a range of vibrant colors including grey, orange, pink, black, navy blue, yellow, army green, beige, rose red, white, and fluorescent green to match your style and personality.

Pros

  • Breathable and comfortable fabric
  • Non-slip and wear-resistant outsole for excellent grip and durability
  • Slip-on design for easy wear
  • Fashionable and goes well with everything
  • Suitable for a variety of activities and occasions
  • Available in a range of vibrant colors

7. New Balance Men's Nitrel V3 Trail Running Shoe, Black/magnet, 10.5 M Us

Experience versatile traction during on and off-road activities with the all-terrain outsole of the innovative REVlite midsole running shoes. These shoes offer premium responsiveness and durability at a 30% lighter weight than other foams with comparable performance. The synthetic/mesh upper construction ensures maximum breathability and comfort during long runs. The AT Tread outsole provides superior traction on all surfaces, so you can run with confidence. These shoes feature an 8mm drop, which is approximate due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner, these shoes are perfect for all your running needs.

The REVlite midsole provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, helping to reduce the impact on your joints and muscles during your runs. The lightweight design ensures that you can run longer without feeling tired. The all-terrain outsole is designed to provide versatile traction, so you can run on any surface with ease. The synthetic/mesh upper construction ensures maximum breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during your runs.

These shoes are perfect for runners who want a lightweight, comfortable, and durable shoe that can handle any terrain. Whether you're running on the road or off-road, the AT Tread outsole provides superior traction, so you can run with confidence. The 8mm drop ensures that you maintain a natural stride, reducing the risk of injury. Overall, these shoes are an excellent choice for any runner looking for a high-performance shoe that can handle any challenge.

Pros

  • Lightweight design for longer runs
  • REVlite midsole for excellent cushioning and shock absorption
  • All-terrain outsole for versatile traction
  • Synthetic/mesh upper construction for maximum breathability

Cons

  • – The 8mm drop is approximate due to variances during development and manufacturing

8. Xero Shoes Men's Mesa Trail Running Shoe – Lightweight Barefoot Trail Runner, Forest, 11.5

The Mesa Trail is the perfect shoe for individuals with an active lifestyle, designed with barefoot-friendly and minimalist running in mind. This shoe is incredibly lightweight, with a weight of around 7.6 ounces for a men's 9 size, making it feel like you're practically flying over the trail.

The Xero Drop sole is an excellent feature of the Mesa Trail, offering a non-elevated heel that is low-to-the-ground. This design promotes proper posture, balance, and agility, enabling you to enjoy the comfort and traction that comes from the wide toe box and lugged, dual-chevron tread.

Flexibility is a critical component of the Mesa Trail, as it comes equipped with the patented 5mm FeelTrue sole that provides just-right protection and ground feedback that your feet will love. Additionally, 3.5mm lugs will offer the right combination of protection and grip.

For individuals who are environmentally conscious, the Mesa Trail is an excellent choice as it is vegan-friendly. Xero Shoes believes in promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles, which is why this shoe is made with zero animal products.

Lastly, the Mesa Trail is available in a true-to-size fit, and if for any reason, the shoe does not fit well, Xero Shoes offers a free domestic exchange of your 'like-new' shoe.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Xero Drop sole promotes proper posture, balance, and agility
  • Wide toe box and lugged, dual-chevron tread provide comfort and traction
  • Patented 5mm FeelTrue sole offers protection and ground feedback
  • Vegan-friendly
  • Free domestic exchange available for sizing issues

9. New Balance Women's 510 V4 Trail Running Shoe, Black/outerspace/seafoam, 7 M Us

Introducing the latest sneaker innovation from New Balance, featuring the ACTEVA Midsole for superior cushioning and shock absorption. The NB Ultra Soft Comfort Insert provides added comfort for all-day wear, while the durable AT TREAD Outsole ensures maximum traction on any terrain. The Toe Protect feature adds extra durability to the shoe's design, protecting your toes from impact and abrasion. Whether you're hitting the gym or going for a run, these sneakers offer the perfect combination of comfort and support.

Experience the ultimate in sneaker technology with the new New Balance shoe. The ACTEVA Midsole provides premium cushioning, reducing shock on impact to keep your feet feeling fresh and energized. The NB Ultra Soft Comfort Insert cradles your feet in comfort, making these sneakers perfect for all-day wear. The AT TREAD Outsole offers unbeatable traction on any surface, ensuring you can take on any terrain with confidence. And with the added protection of Toe Protect, these sneakers are built to last.

Get the support and comfort you need with the latest addition to the New Balance sneaker line. Featuring the ACTEVA Midsole for unparalleled cushioning and shock absorption, these sneakers keep your feet feeling great even during the toughest workouts. The NB Ultra Soft Comfort Insert adds an extra layer of comfort, while the AT TREAD Outsole provides superior traction on any surface. And with Toe Protect, these sneakers are built to withstand even the toughest conditions.

Pros

  • ACTEVA Midsole provides superior cushioning and shock absorption
  • NB Ultra Soft Comfort Insert offers added comfort for all-day wear
  • AT TREAD Outsole ensures maximum traction on any terrain
  • Toe Protect adds extra durability to the shoe's design

Best Shoes For New Runners FAQs

Are there any specific features new runners should consider when purchasing running shoes?

Yes, there are several specific features that new runners should consider when purchasing running shoes. Firstly, new runners should consider the type of surface they will be running on as different shoes are designed for different surfaces. For example, trail running shoes have deeper treads and are more rugged than road running shoes.

Secondly, new runners should consider the level of cushioning they need. Running shoes with more cushioning are better for runners with high arches and those who run on harder surfaces. On the other hand, runners with flat feet or those who run on softer surfaces may prefer shoes with less cushioning.

Thirdly, new runners should consider the fit of the shoes. Running shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly. It is important to try on shoes before purchasing them and to walk or jog around in them to ensure they are comfortable and provide the necessary support.

Lastly, new runners should consider the durability of the shoes. Running shoes should be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. It is important to invest in a quality pair of running shoes that will last for several months without breaking down.

Can new runners wear any type of athletic shoe, or is it important to invest in a dedicated running shoe?

As a seasoned runner, I strongly recommend investing in a dedicated running shoe. While it may be tempting for new runners to wear any type of athletic shoe, the truth is that running shoes are specifically designed to support the unique needs of running.

Running shoes provide cushioning and stability that can help prevent injury and improve performance. They are also designed with materials that can withstand the repetitive impact of running. In contrast, other athletic shoes may not provide the necessary support for running and could even increase the risk of injury.

When selecting a running shoe, it's important to consider factors such as foot shape, arch support, and pronation. A good running shoe should fit snugly but not be too tight, and it should support your foot's natural movement patterns.

Overall, investing in a quality running shoe is a wise decision for any runner, new or experienced. It can help you stay injury-free and enjoy the sport for years to come.

How much should new runners expect to spend on a good pair of running shoes?

New runners can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $150 on a good pair of running shoes. The cost of running shoes can vary depending on the brand, quality, and features. It is important to invest in a good pair of shoes as they can help prevent injuries and provide support and comfort during runs. Cheaper shoes may not provide the necessary support and cushioning needed for running, which can lead to discomfort or injuries. However, it is not necessary to break the bank on the most expensive pair of shoes. It is important to find a balance between cost and quality. It is also recommended to try on several pairs of shoes and go for a test run before purchasing to ensure the perfect fit and comfort level. Overall, investing in a good pair of running shoes is worth it for the long-term health and enjoyment of running.

What are some common mistakes new runners make when buying running shoes?

New runners often make the mistake of not considering their foot type and running style when purchasing running shoes. It is important to invest in shoes that are designed for your specific needs. For example, those with flat feet may require shoes with extra arch support, while those with high arches may need more cushioning. Another common mistake is not getting the right size. It is important to have your feet measured professionally to ensure a proper fit. Wearing shoes that are too small or too big can cause discomfort and lead to injury. Additionally, many new runners may prioritize style over function, which can lead to choosing shoes that are not suitable for their activity level or foot type. It is important to prioritize comfort and function over aesthetics when choosing running shoes. Finally, new runners may not replace their shoes often enough, leading to worn-out shoes that no longer provide the necessary support and cushioning. It is recommended to replace running shoes every 300-500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.

What type of shoes should new runners be looking for?

New runners should be looking for shoes that provide adequate support, cushioning, and stability. These features are important to prevent injuries and ensure a comfortable running experience.

Supportive shoes help to maintain proper alignment and prevent overpronation or supination, which can lead to injuries like shin splints or plantar fasciitis. Cushioning is important to absorb shock and reduce impact on joints, especially for runners who are just starting out and may not have developed the muscles and endurance needed to absorb shock on their own.

Stability is also important to prevent ankle rolling and provide a secure fit. Look for shoes with a wide base and a snug fit around the heel to ensure stability.

It's also important to consider the type of surface you will be running on. Shoes designed for road running may have different features than those designed for trail running.

Overall, it's important to try on different styles and brands to find the best fit for your individual needs. Don't be afraid to ask for help at a specialty running store to ensure you are getting the right shoes for your feet and running style.

Leave a Comment