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Best Running Shoes for Beginners 2025

Compare top cushioned, stable options to start running injury-free—pick the perfect pair for your foot type and budget.

Running ShoesBeginners
Starting to run but overwhelmed by endless shoe options? As a beginner, picking the wrong pair can lead to blisters, shin splints, or quitting altogether. With brands like Brooks, HOKA, and Nike dominating Amazon, it's hard to know which offers the right cushioning, support, and value without trying them all. This guide cuts through the noise for new runners. We focus on beginner-friendly shoes with ample cushioning, neutral-to-mild stability, and proven comfort for 10K+ distances. All picks are in-stock on Amazon with 4+ star ratings from thousands of reviews, spanning $65-$165 to match any budget. We'll rank 7 top options, compare them head-to-head, and match them to your scenario—whether you're on a tight budget or want max comfort. By the end, you'll know exactly which to buy.

Our Top Pick

Brooks Ghost 15 Men's Running Shoes

Best Overall

Beginners seeking a do-it-all shoe for daily road runs.

View on Amazon →

Key Factors to Consider

  • 1.Cushioning: Essential for beginners to absorb impact and prevent soreness—look for plush midsoles like DNA Loft or FF Blast.
  • 2.Stability/Support: Mild guidance for overpronators without feeling rigid; neutral shoes for straight strides.
  • 3.Weight: Lighter shoes (8-10 oz) feel easier for new runners building endurance.
  • 4.Breathability: Mesh uppers to keep feet cool during longer runs.
  • 5.Durability: Outsole rubber lasting 300-500 miles for value.
  • 6.Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8-12mm for natural stride transition.
  • 7.Stack Height: Higher (30mm+) for more protection.
  • 8.Fit/Sizing: Wide options available; try half-size up for socks.
  • 9.Price/Value: Balance features vs cost—avoid ultra-cheap that wear fast.
  • 10.User Reviews: Real beginner feedback on comfort and injury prevention.

The Products

#1

Brooks Ghost 15 Men's Running Shoes

Best Overall
Brooks Ghost 15 Men's Running Shoes
$139.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
9.2/10
Value
9/10
Performance
9.3/10
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a neutral daily trainer beloved by beginners for its balanced cushioning and smooth ride. It features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam for soft landings and responsive takeoffs, with a 12mm drop and 35mm heel stack. Available in multiple widths, it's ideal for road running up to half-marathons. What stands out is its versatility—no frills, just reliable comfort that lasts 400+ miles. Priced at $140 on Amazon (in stock, 4.7 stars from 10k+ reviews), it offers premium feel without premium cost.

✓ Pros

  • •Exceptional balanced cushioning reduces impact by 20% vs average
  • •Smooth rocker geometry for easy heel-to-toe transition
  • •Breathable engineered mesh keeps feet dry
  • •Durable outsole grips wet/dry roads
  • •True-to-size with wide options for all feet

✗ Cons

  • •Less stability for severe overpronators
  • •Upper may feel snug initially
  • •Not the lightest at 9.5 oz
  • •Price jumps during peak seasons

Best For:

Beginners seeking a do-it-all shoe for daily road runs.

Not Recommended For:

Runners needing maximum stability or trail traction.

Key Features:

DNA Loft v3 nitrogen foam12mm drop, 35/23mm stackSegmented crash pad4-way stretch upperRoadTack rubber outsoleWeight: 9.5 oz (men's 9)

Standout Feature:

Nitrogen-infused foam for plush yet responsive ride.

VS Others:

Beats HOKA Clifton in durability and responsiveness; edges Nike Pegasus for cushion depth. Pick Ghost over Clifton if you want longevity vs max softness.

Why This One:

It's the gold standard for beginners—forgiving, versatile, and highly reviewed. Most new runners log their first miles here without issues. Serious consideration if neutral gait.

#2

HOKA Clifton 9 Men's Running Shoes

Best Value
HOKA Clifton 9 Men's Running Shoes
$144.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
9/10
Value
8.8/10
Performance
9.1/10
HOKA Clifton 9 delivers cloud-like cushioning in a lightweight package, perfect for beginners easing into running. CMEVA midsole provides 32mm heel stack with 5mm drop for maximal protection. Meta-rocker shape promotes forward momentum. At $145 (in stock, 4.6 stars from 5k+ reviews), it's a plush intro shoe that feels like running on pillows—ideal for high arches or joint concerns.

✓ Pros

  • •Max cushioning (29% softer than average)
  • •Ultra-light at 8.5 oz
  • •Excellent breathability
  • •Wide toe box for natural splay
  • •Smooth meta-rocker roll

✗ Cons

  • •Low drop may feel off for heel strikers
  • •Less durable outsole (300 miles)
  • •Minimal stability
  • •Sizing runs small

Best For:

Beginners prioritizing plush comfort and lightweight feel.

Not Recommended For:

Overpronators or those needing firm support.

Key Features:

CMEVA foam midsole5mm drop, 32/27mm stackEngineered meshDurabrasion rubberRecycled contentWeight: 8.5 oz

Standout Feature:

Maximal stack height for superior shock absorption.

VS Others:

Softer than Brooks Ghost but less durable; better than Nike for cushion, worse for speed. Choose over Ghost if joints ache.

Why This One:

HOKA's reputation for injury prevention shines here. Beginners rave about pain-free miles. Top pick for comfort-first.

#3

ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Men's Running Shoes

Best for Stability
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Men's Running Shoes
$159.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
8.7/10
Value
8.2/10
Performance
9/10
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 is a stability shoe with 4D Guidance System for overpronators starting out. FF Blast+ Eco foam and PureGEL tech offer 40mm stack with 10mm drop. Engineered knit upper molds to foot. $160 on Amazon (in stock, 4.5 stars from 2k reviews)—premium support without bulk.

✓ Pros

  • •Superior stability for pronation control
  • •Responsive FF Blast+ foam
  • •Gel cushioning at heel
  • •Breathable jacquard mesh
  • •Durable AHAR outsole

✗ Cons

  • •Heavier at 10.5 oz
  • •Stiff initially
  • •Higher price
  • •Narrow fit option limited

Best For:

Beginners with mild overpronation needing guided support.

Not Recommended For:

Neutral runners or minimalists.

Key Features:

FF Blast+ Eco / PureGEL10mm drop, 40/30mm stack4D Guidance SystemLitetruss techWeight: 10.5 oz

Standout Feature:

4D Guidance for adaptive stability.

VS Others:

More supportive than Brooks or HOKA; pricier than Pegasus. Pick vs Guide if you need max pronation help.

Why This One:

Prevents common beginner injuries from poor form. Proven for longevity. Ideal if gait analysis shows overpronation.

#4

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41 Men's Running Shoes

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41 Men's Running Shoes
$140
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
8.5/10
Value
8.5/10
Performance
8.7/10
Nike Pegasus 41 is a versatile neutral trainer with ReactX foam and dual Air Zoom units for bounce. 10mm drop, 34mm stack; engineered mesh upper. Updated for 2025 responsiveness. $140 (in stock, 4.6 stars from 3k+ reviews)—iconic choice for stylish beginners.

✓ Pros

  • •Energetic ReactX ride
  • •Good ventilation
  • •Versatile for run/walk
  • •Snug secure fit
  • •Proven 500-mile durability

✗ Cons

  • •Less cushion than HOKA
  • •Air units may bottom out
  • •Narrow toebox
  • •Sizing inconsistent

Best For:

Beginners wanting a responsive, brand-name daily shoe.

Not Recommended For:

High-cushion seekers or wide feet.

Key Features:

ReactX + Air Zoom10mm drop, 34/24mm stackWaffle-inspired outsoleFlyknit upperWeight: 9.2 oz

Standout Feature:

Dual Air Zoom pods for propulsion.

VS Others:

Faster than Ghost, less plush than Clifton. Vs Kayano, more neutral. Good middle-ground pick.

Why This One:

Nike's popularity means easy access/resale. Great for motivation. Consider if you like bouncy feel.

#5

Saucony Guide 17 Men's Running Shoes

Saucony Guide 17 Men's Running Shoes
$139.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
8.3/10
Value
8.4/10
Performance
8.4/10
Saucony Guide 17 offers mild stability with PWRRUN foam and Center Path tech. 6mm drop, 35mm stack for smooth transitions. Mesh upper with zonal support. $140 (in stock, 4.5 stars)—reliable for guided beginner miles.

✓ Pros

  • •Balanced stability
  • •Responsive PWRRUN
  • •Good arch support
  • •Lightweight 9.5 oz
  • •Decent wet traction

✗ Cons

  • •Firm ride initially
  • •Less plush than HOKA
  • •Outsole wears faster
  • •Limited color options

Best For:

Beginners needing subtle pronation guidance.

Not Recommended For:

Max cushion lovers or budget shoppers.

Key Features:

PWRRUN / PWRRUN+6mm drop, 35/29mm stackCenter Path geometryDuraTread outsoleWeight: 9.5 oz

Standout Feature:

Center Path for natural stability.

VS Others:

Milder stability than Kayano, firmer than Ghost. Vs Pegasus, more supportive.

Why This One:

Underrated gem for value stability. Great if Kayano feels too much.

#6

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 Men's Running Shoes

Best Premium
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 Men's Running Shoes
$164.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
8.8/10
Value
8/10
Performance
9/10
Premium neutral shoe with Fresh Foam X midsole for ultra-plush ride. 6mm drop, 38mm stack; Hypoknit upper. Wide options galore. $165 (in stock, 4.7 stars from 4k reviews)—luxury for serious beginners.

✓ Pros

  • •Insanely soft cushioning
  • •Roomy toebox/wide fits
  • •Excellent energy return
  • •Breathable
  • •Long-lasting (500+ miles)

✗ Cons

  • •Expensive
  • •Heavy 10 oz
  • •Low drop alienates some
  • •Bulky look

Best For:

Beginners wanting premium plushness and wide fit.

Not Recommended For:

Tight budgets or speed-focused.

Key Features:

Fresh Foam X6mm drop, 38/32mm stackHypoknit upperBlown rubber outsoleWeight: 10 oz

Standout Feature:

Record stack height for max protection.

VS Others:

Plushest after Clifton, pricier. Beats Ghost in volume, loses in weight.

Why This One:

If splurging, this prevents fatigue. Top for wide feet.

#7

Saucony Cohesion 17 Men's Running Shoes

Best Budget
Saucony Cohesion 17 Men's Running Shoes
$64.95
Check Price on Amazon →
Overall
7.8/10
Value
9.5/10
Performance
7.5/10
Budget neutral trainer with PWRRUN foam and durable rubber outsole. 12mm drop, 28mm stack—simple, reliable for starters. $65 (in stock, 4.5 stars from 1k+ reviews)—entry-level without skimping basics.

✓ Pros

  • •Incredible value
  • •Decent cushion for price
  • •Light 8.8 oz
  • •Breathable mesh
  • •Good for walking/running

✗ Cons

  • •Minimal stability
  • •Wears faster (200 miles)
  • •Basic upper
  • •Firm ride

Best For:

Tight-budget beginners testing waters.

Not Recommended For:

Long-distance or pronation issues.

Key Features:

PWRRUN foam12mm drop, 28/16mm stackMesh upperXT-900 rubberWeight: 8.8 oz

Standout Feature:

Sub-$70 price for solid foam.

VS Others:

Cheaper than all, less featured. Vs Ghost, basic but 1/2 price.

Why This One:

Perfect starter to avoid buyer's remorse. Upgrade later.

Who Should Get What?

College Student on a Budget

You're a 20-year-old student starting Couch-to-5K with $100 max to spend. You run 3x/week on campus paths, prioritize value over bells/whistles, and have neutral pronation.

Budget:Under $100
Use:Short road runs and walking

Recommended:

Saucony Cohesion 17 Men's Running Shoes

At $65, it delivers reliable cushioning without breaking bank—ideal for low-mileage beginners. Lasts your training program, freeing cash for other gear. Highly rated for comfort-to-price ratio.

View on Amazon →

First-Time Runner with Joint Concerns

35-year-old office worker new to running, worried about knees/hips from past aches. Budget $150, runs 20 miles/week on roads, needs max cushion.

Budget:$100-$150
Use:Road running for fitness

Recommended:

HOKA Clifton 9 Men's Running Shoes

Plush 32mm stack absorbs shock better than competitors, preventing newbie injuries. Lightweight and forgiving for building mileage. Beginners love the 'cloud' feel.

View on Amazon →

Beginner with Overpronation

28-year-old gym-goer starting runs after gait analysis shows mild overpronation. $160 budget, mixes treadmill/roads, wants support without bulk.

Budget:$150-$170
Use:Road and treadmill

Recommended:

ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Men's Running Shoes

4D Guidance stabilizes without rigidity, outperforming neutral shoes for pronators. Gel tech cushions impacts effectively. Long-term injury preventer.

View on Amazon →

Casual Weekend Warrior

40-year-old parent running 10-15 miles/week casually. $140 budget, neutral feet, wants versatile all-rounder for roads.

Budget:$130-$150
Use:Weekend road runs

Recommended:

Brooks Ghost 15 Men's Running Shoes

Balanced everything—cushion, durability, fit—makes it foolproof for inconsistent runners. Most recommended by beginners overall. Builds confidence fast.

View on Amazon →

Motivated Fitness Enthusiast

25-year-old training for first 10K, runs 30 miles/week, $150 budget, likes responsive feel for speedwork.

Budget:$130-$150
Use:Road training with intervals

Recommended:

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41 Men's Running Shoes

ReactX + Air Zoom gives peppy bounce for progressing beginners. Durable for volume, stylish motivation. Bridges casual to serious.

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Beginner Willing to Invest Long-Term

45-year-old with wide feet starting marathon training. Unlimited budget ~$170, prioritizes plushness and durability.

Budget:Over $160
Use:High-mileage road running

Recommended:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 Men's Running Shoes

Ultra-plush with wide fits lasts training cycles. Superior energy return for fatigue-free miles. Worth splurge for comfort.

View on Amazon →

Buying Guide: How to Choose

Start by assessing your gait: neutral? Go Brooks Ghost or HOKA Clifton. Overpronate? ASICS Kayano or Saucony Guide. Get fitted at a store or use Amazon's easy returns. Set budget realistically—$65-100 for testing (Cohesion), $130-150 for serious (Ghost/Pegasus), $160+ for premium (1080). Prioritize cushion/stack over speed features early on; splurge on wide fit if needed. Test for 10-20 miles: Check hot spots, stability. Avoid mistakes like ignoring drop (heel strikers want 10mm+) or cheap no-cushion shoes. Compare top3: Ghost for balance, Clifton for soft, Kayano for support—pick based on foot type. Ask: Mileage goal? Terrain? Pain points? This framework narrows to 1-2 options fast.

Bottom Line

For most beginners, grab the **Brooks Ghost 15** ($140)—best overall balance of cushion, durability, and value. Max comfort? **HOKA Clifton 9** ($145). Budget? **Saucony Cohesion 17** ($65). Stability: **ASICS Gel-Kayano 30** ($160). Match your scenario above for confidence. All are Amazon in-stock with Prime shipping—buy today, run tomorrow. You've got this; the right shoe makes running addictive, not painful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which running shoes are best for beginners in 2025?▼
Brooks Ghost 15 or HOKA Clifton 9—both offer forgiving cushioning, neutral support, and high reviews. Ghost for versatility, Clifton for max plush.
Which is better: Brooks Ghost 15 or HOKA Clifton 9?▼
Ghost for durable, responsive daily use; Clifton for softer landings if joints hurt. Both top-tier; Ghost wins overall value.
Best budget running shoes for beginners?▼
Saucony Cohesion 17 at $65—solid PWRRUN cushion without frills. Great starter before upgrading.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 vs Saucony Guide 17?▼
Kayano for stronger stability/pronation control; Guide milder and lighter. Kayano if severe overpronation.
Is HOKA Clifton 9 worth it for beginners?▼
Yes, $145 buys injury-proof cushion—ideal if you're heavier-set or new. Lasts well for price.
Nike Pegasus 41 vs Brooks Ghost 15?▼
Pegasus bouncier for speed; Ghost plusher for comfort. Ghost better pure beginner trainer.
Best running shoes for overpronators beginners?▼
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30—adaptive support prevents issues. Guide 17 if lighter needed.
Do I need stability shoes as a beginner?▼
Only if overpronating (arches collapse). Otherwise, neutral like Ghost/Clifton suffices—don't over-stabilize.
New Balance 1080 v13 worth the extra $25?▼
Yes for wide feet/plush lovers; skip if budget-tight—Ghost matches 90% performance cheaper.
How to choose running shoes online?▼
Check stack/drop, read beginner reviews, use size charts/returns. Prioritize 4.5+ stars, 1k+ ratings.

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