Running shoes are often expensive. The Nike Alphafly 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Elite, some of the top-of-line marathon racing shoes come in at a whopping $275. Not everyone can afford that. Heck, you may be able to afford it but aren’t willing to spend that much on a pair of shoes. We don’t blame you. And that’s why we compiled our Best Cheap Running Shoes list.
On this page, we identify high-performing running shoes you can enjoy without worrying about the price. The good news is there are quite a few of them available at any time. The better news is that we’ve found them for you and put them in one easy-to-read place. We update the Best Cheap Running Shoes list with new currently available budget running sneakers on a regular basis.
If you wish to browse all of our detailed running shoe reviews, you can check out our Running Shoe reviews page. If you’d like to browse the best running shoes available, go to our Best Running Shoes list.
Categories are used below so you can easily find what you want. If you know what you need, you can simply click the category. If not, feel free to read through the whole list.
We would also like to hear your thoughts on the list or see your own list. Please share in the comments below.
Updated: 03.12.2024
Let’s get into our picks:
Best Cheap Running Shoes
Reebok Floatzig 1
The Reebok Floatzig 1, releasing in early April 2024, isn’t great at any one thing but features bouncy Floatride cushioning underfoot, looks awesome, and provides impressive durability. It’s a fantastic option for a wide variety of runners but is perfect for joggers, budget conscious runners, and beginners who need their running shoes to pull double duty for casual wear. It may be the ultimate running starter shoe. See the full review.
Fit: True to Size, Drop: 6mm, Price: $130
New Balance FuelCell Propel v4
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 has the best value proposition of any shoe on the market. $110 for a bouncy Fuelcell midsole and a TPU plate? That alone raises my eyebrows.
The upper isn’t spectacular but it’s comfortable. The tongue can be slippy, it’s a little on the heavy side, and the traction is solid. Durability is a big question mark because there’s not a ton of rubber on the outsole and it wears down pretty fast. But, at $110, a price serviceable daily running shoes don’t touch anymore, sacrificing some durability and comfort is expected.
The end result is a shoe that’s perfect for a wide range of runners. It’s also great for cost-conscious parents that need solid running shoes for kids running track or cross country (and growing out of the shoes way too fast). I’d recommend the Propel v4 over Nike’s current Pegasus and several other $130-150 models. Watch Kofuzi’s review.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 6mm, Price $110
Reebok Floatride Energy 5
The Reebok Floatride Energy 5 delivers plenty of value for $110. The Floatride midsole starts out a bit firm but breaks in nicely. The subtle rocker and good impact protection make for a nice ride. The upper fixes the two issues from the Floatride Energy 4 but isn’t as comfy overall. It’s also not wide foot friendly. But the traction grips well and doesn’t show wear easily which has us thinking it will be plenty durable. Once again, Reebok provides a very good running shoe without a heavy investment. Read the full review.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 8mm, Price: $110
Cost to Make a Running Shoe
If you’ve ever wondered how much it costs brands like Nike and adidas to make a running shoe and get it to a store, you can read our article on how much it costs to produce a running shoe.
Best Budget Running Shoes on Sale
Deal shopping last year’s models once they go on sale can be the most cost-efficient way to buy new running shoes. In addition to the shoes listed below, Running Warehouse always has deals available for many Men’s and Women’s running shoes and gear. Other brands and retailers do too and we update our Deals page daily so you can get the best bang for your buck any time you’re shopping for new shoes.
Saucony Kinvara 14
The Saucony Kinvara 14 is a lightweight, breathable but firmer trainer with a very good value proposition at $120. And while it may be too firm for larger runners or when your legs are absolutely crushed from a hard workout the day before, it’ll work well in most other circumstances. The upper, though built with just regular mesh, does include a gusseted tongue that locks the foot down nicely and keeps everything in place. The outsole, though light on rubber, there are only two small sections, grips extremely well with its wavy foam pattern. Though the Kinvara 14 is somewhat minimal, it’s perfect if you want less shoe. And, the lightweight, flexible build is great for elementary or middle school kids just beginning their running journey. Saucony thankfully realized this and made the Kinvara 14 available in kid sizes as well.
Fit: True to Size, Drop: 4mm, Price: $120
Hoka Rincon 3
The Hoka Rincon 3 is so good it’s on the Best Running Shoes page. This very lightweight shoe somehow offers a ton of cushioning at the same time. It clocks in at 7.3 oz in a men’s size 9, light for a running shoe. If you want a pair that will cater to your speed day needs, there are only a few other options available that are better (at any price point). The meta rocker also gives you that gliding sensation. To top it all off, the shoe is incredibly accommodating and works for most foot shapes.
Fit: True to size, Drop: 5mm, Price: $125
Thinking of a shoe we should add to the best cheap running shoes list? Comment below or message us on Instagram or Twitter.
