When you first start running, getting the right pair of running shoes is important. Running is fantastic for cardiovascular health and stamina, and it can be an effective tool for weight loss when paired with the appropriate diet and nutrition. Ensuring that your feet are protected, supported and comfortable is a sure way to give yourself the very best chance of enjoying and keeping up running, right? That’s why it’s so important that you land a pair of the best beginner running shoes, especially when you're a starter.
Picking out the right running shoes is a personal venture. Your choice will depend entirely on your preferences, whether functionality, fit, colour, or design. Perhaps you’ll be traversing tricky terrain, or maybe you need a pair for the treadmill; there’s a pair that will cater to your needs.
The best beginner running shoes at a glance:
• Best overall beginner running shoes: Brooks Ghost 15 - View on Amazon
• Best beginner running shoes for off-road: Saucony Pilgrim 13 - View on Amazon
• Best beginner running shoes for speed: Hoka Mach 5 - View on Amazon
Getting your hands on the best running shoes that money can buy will be a huge incentive to get out there and start that journey as a regular runner. At What’s the Best, we’ve compiled a list of some of the finest running shoes available - elsewhere, we've discussed the best cheap running shoes that are good for those looking to get jogging without spending big. Find your style, secure your fit, and run.
The best beginner running shoes:
Best overall beginner running shoes
So, you want a running shoe that's all-purpose and can tackle any high-speed adventure? Let us present you with the Brooks Ghost 15. We're talking about a resilient outsole and a comfortably padded insole, making a well-rounded running experience combined.
It might be slightly heavier than its predecessor, and it could be more breathable, but the Ghost 15s exceed in so many other aspects that it's hard to fault it.
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Great for various conditions
- Decent value
Cons
- Breathability could be better
2.
Hoka Mach 5
Best beginner running shoes for speed
You'll feel lightning fast with the Hoka Mach 5s. These running shoes are built for speed, making you feel weightless and dynamic. Outside of the shoe durability does take a slight back seat with a high priority put on speed.
Pros
- Very accommodating fit
- Runs and feels light
Cons
- Outsole durability lacking
Best beginner running shoes for off-road
Perhaps you're taking your runs deep into the countryside, or you just want to maximise your grip and stability on wet or icy pavements, the Peregrine 13s are the solution. The performance-tailored fit means you can put the Peregrine 13s through pretty much anything and they'll come out victorious, as will you.
You might find that these shoes let in some fine debris, but only after extended wear in the most extreme conditions.
Pros
- Great traction
- Protective padding
- Extra cushioning
Cons
- Lets in some fine debris
Best daily running shoes
www.newbalance.co.uk
New Balance is a serious name in sports footwear and is responsible for some iconic daily trainers. The Fresh Foam X 880v13 trainers are the ultimate daily running shoes. They look fresh, feel fresh, and are stronger than they look.
Comfortable would be an understatement for these NB trainers, and the grip is respectable, too. Okay, they're not superstars in the wet and icy, but you should have no trouble on any kind of dry terrain.
Pros
- Well-cushioned, comfortable fit
- Stylish colours
- Good grip
Cons
- Not durable in extreme conditions
Best for firm cushioning
www.reebok.eu
For many, it has to be comfort above all else, and Reebook understood the assignment with the Floatride Energy 5s. These are some of the most cushioned running shoes on the market; they offer a gentle fit like none other. Don't think performance is lacking, though, because the Floatride Energy 5s can and will give you the right platform for speed.
The narrow fit at the midfoot might not be everyone's cup of tea, it could take some getting used to so we do urge you to give it a good chance.
Pros
- Smooth ride
- Super comfortable
- Great support at speed
Cons
- Narrow fit at mid-foot
Do you need running shoes for running?
Yes, you should consider picking up some running shoes if you plan on taking up running in your spare time. Running trainers are constructed for the sole purpose (pardon the pun) of withstanding the heavy use of runners. Running shoes will be designed to be more lightweight, durable, and breathable than typical shoes and trainers.
Can running shoes be used for walking?
Of course, running shoes can be worn for walking, training in the gym, or even nipping down to the shops. Running shoes are just designed to be more accommodating to running and other demanding exercises. They should have better grip, padding, and comfort.
How to choose a running shoe for beginners
If choosing the right running shoes is a daunting thought, it shouldn’t be. It’s personal; the only important thing you need to consider is the context in which you are wearing them. If it’s only indoor use on a treadmill or at the gym, you don’t have to worry about grip or super durability.
Whereas, if you live for the outdoors and plan to go off-trail running in all kinds of conditions, you’ll want to prioritise fit, padding, and material strength.
Jack Barrell is a Tech and Fitness Writer for What’s the Best. He is invested in all things entertainment and keeps well up to date with the latest sports and exercise trends too. On his off days Jack can usually be found doing one of two things; lifting heavy weights – or watching his favourite Star Wars for the thousandth time.