High-quality or best running shoes can be quite expensive, often exceeding $100. However, as a parent or student, you might have already spent a lot on essential back-to-school items like backpacks, dorm furniture, and supplies. If your current running shoes are worn out, you may be wondering how to buy a new, high-quality pair without breaking the bank.
Bill Reifsnyder, an ex-professional runner and the CMO of Nonaste, an athletic laundry detergent brand, points out that although running doesn’t demand much equipment, the essential item, running shoes, can be quite costly.
Fortunately, there are still opportunities to discover great bargains on must-have fitness items such as quality running shoes – you just have to be aware of where to search (hint: keep reading).
Reifsnyder says that a good pair of running shoes can range in price from $110 to close to $300. “But don’t worry, if you’re on a tight budget, there are suggestions to help you stay content and well.”
Reifsnyder and other running specialists offer their top picks for men’s and women’s running shoes under $100, along with additional highly-rated options we discovered.
So which shoes?
When it comes to running shoes, we understand that there is no universal sneaker that fits everyone perfectly. By combining expert advice and our own investigation of the top-rated and trustworthy shoes available, we compiled a diverse list. Here is a brief overview of the top running shoes that are priced at less than $100.
From specialized requirements such as lightweight construction and additional impact absorption to shoes designed for maximum grip, there is probably a footwear option for everyone included in our list. Even better, the running shoes in front are from reputable brands such as Nike, Asics, Brooks and others, without costing a fortune.
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Highly recommended: Brooks Trace 3
Dr. Gregory Alvarez Reifsnyder, a podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America, along with Dr. Marc Matarazzo, an orthopedic surgeon with a focus on sports medicine, suggest these Brooks shoes.
“They’re considered a great option for newcomers,” Matarazzo remarked. “They provide excellent support, cushioning, and flexibility.”
Alvarez explains that these include BioMoGo DNA cushioning for additional shock absorption. The internal fitting system guarantees a secure and comfortable fit of the shoe on your foot. They additionally include a divided crash pad for quick heel-to-toe shifts.
The outcome is a comfortable yet reactive experience in a shoe that is able to offer both flexibility and stability simultaneously. Therefore, it will be suitable for both short morning runs and extended endurance training sessions. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes. You can choose between standard or wide widths based on the type of foot you have.
Shop men’s sizes: $100 At Brooks
Shop women’s sizes: $100 At Brooks
Best running shoes with minimal heel drop: Saucony Axon 3
Blakey says Saucony is renowned for producing high-quality shoes for runners, and they continue to meet expectations with this versatile running shoe suitable for both running and everyday wear. If you’re looking for a reliable option that can withstand both running and daily tasks, these shoes could be the perfect choice for you.
Each stride feels soft and cozy thanks to the generous amount of PWRRUN foam (35mm) in the midsole. The greatest part is the minimal 4mm difference in height between the heel and toe, ensuring ample cushioning for the entire foot, not just the heel. This is excellent news for runners who strike midfoot or forefoot. It is also an excellent choice for individuals who frequently experience foot pain or plantar fasciitis.
These Saucony Axon 3 running shoes, which are already a good value at their regular price, are currently discounted. Purchase a couple for $80, not $100.
Shop men’s sizes: $80 At Saucony
Shop women’s sizes: $80 At Saucony
Most comfortable sneakers: New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
Alvarez states that this shoe has a lightweight mesh upper and seamless build for breathability. The outstanding comfort and responsiveness are delivered by the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, and the rubber outsole offers superb traction.
Designed for regular use, it is cushioned and easy to carry. The 6mm drop from heel to toe is quite low, which makes this shoe a great choice for runners who usually land on their midfoot or forefoot.
Currently, you have the opportunity to purchase them at a discounted price of $60, down from $75, at New Balance.
Shop men’s sizes: $60 At New Balance
Shop women’s sizes: $60 At New Balance
Best budget-friendly trail running shoes: Merrell Morphlite
If you plan on getting into trail running, your usual everyday running shoes will not suffice. You require dependable traction and grip, as well as some additional support, to keep your feet stable on rough terrain.
The Merrell Morphlite is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a quality shoe to begin with. It is a shoe designed for various terrains with a sticky rubber outsole that grips well on gravel and dirt, and adheres securely to slippery surfaces such as boulders.
Although not built for extremely technical terrain, this comfortable and reliable trail running shoe is ideal for novice or occasional trail runners.
Shop men’s sizes: $100 At Merrell
Shop women’s sizes: $100 At Merrell
Additional running shoes that are highly recommended and priced below $100
- Brook’s most comfortable running shoes from last year: Brooks Ghost 15, now priced at $100 (originally $140).
- Top trail running shoes from Nike priced under $100: Nike Juniper Trail 3 for $90.
- Ideal for both your workout routine and budget: New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8 available starting at $64 (originally $80).
- An ultra-light shoe designed for those who strike with their heels: Asics Versablast 3, on sale for $50 (originally $80)
- Top Nike sneakers for everyday wear priced at $70: Nike Revolution 7, $70.
Can $100 buy a quality pair of running shoes?
Blakey mentions that there are numerous top-notch running shoes available for $100 that can offer all the necessary features in a reliable shoe. If you have a clear idea of what to search for, you can find affordable options that are also reliable.
If you’re a beginner in running, not looking for fancy features in expensive shoes, or have no injuries to address, $100 is enough for a pair of running shoes that will make you satisfied.
Shopping for clearance shoes is a simple way to find high quality items at a reduced cost. When a new model is introduced, the price of the previous year’s version usually decreases. Therefore, budget-conscious runners now have a great chance to purchase a high-quality running shoe for less than $100.
You should replace your running shoes frequently (every 300 to 500 miles, as recommended by REI), which can become costly if you consistently choose expensive options.
The process of selecting these running shoes
- Customer feedback: We carefully examined authentic customer reviews to make sure that they were consistently satisfied with these brands and models.
- Expert advice: We consulted Bill Reifsnyder, a former professional runner and Nonaste CMO; Andrew Blakey, a certified personal trainer and director of Your Future Fitness; Dr. Gregory Alvarez, a podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America; and Dr. Marc Matarazzo, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, for recommendations and advice on products.
- Star rating: Every product on our list has a rating of four stars or more, ensuring you receive top-notch running shoes.
- Your requirements: When selecting these running shoes, we took into account your requirements such as varied widths, colors, and more.
Photo by Chau Cédric on Unsplash