The beginning of running is a moment when shoes are crucial. Good shoes for beginners should support every step, not hinder it. In this shoe guide, we take a closer look at the most interesting models designed for those who are just starting their adventure with running. We look for a balance between cushioning, decent performance and a reasonable price. Each of these models will allow you to get off to a safe start.
Who is it for?
These are not shoes for fast runners or setting personal records. They are designed for people who are just getting into running or returning to it after a long break. They are most often purchased by people who are starting with walk-runs and short, 20–40 minute workouts and who do not yet have a set technique or pace. In this category, comfort, stability, and flexibility are more important than dynamics. That is why the shoe guide includes shoes for those considering taking up running, as well as models for their first regular workouts and those sufficient for a few runs a week.
Getting Started
adidas Duramo Speed 2
The Duramo Speed is an affordable sports shoe that allows you to start running without investing in expensive training shoes. Thanks to its Lightstrike foam, it’s significantly more resilient, so you can find a bit of speed in these shoes. They also work well during fitness classes, so you can use them several times a week.
- Stack height: 35/29mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 270g men’s, 224g women’s
- Regular price: 90 EUR
Asics Gel-Excite 11
It is lightweight and comfortable with a soft OrthoLite® insole and a small GEL® element under the heel. It absorbs hard surfaces well during the first few jogs and provides enough stability that good running technique is not required. It is often chosen by people transitioning from walking to jogging for their first runs.
- Stack height: 25/17mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 290g men’s, 260g women’s
- Regular price: 90 EUR
New Balance 520 v9
The NB 520 is a running shoe with a wide, stable platform that gives inexperienced runners a sense of control. Its minimal yet durable cushioning is well suited to jogging around town and on park paths. It’s a good choice for heavier runners and those who are just starting out with brisk walking.
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 271g men’s, 213g women’s
- Regular price: 90 EUR
Nike Downshifter 14
This is the simplest Nike running shoe model and a very typical first choice. Its soft foam and flexible, breathable upper make it ideal for jogging, walking, and initial workouts. It’s ideal for those who want to try running without making a big investment and who don’t yet know how often they’ll be training.
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 280g men’s, 250g women’s
- Regular price: 70 EUR
Under Armour Charged Rogue 5
The Rogue is a shoe that falls somewhere between a training shoe and a running shoe. This makes it appealing to people who are just starting to get active. Its Charged Cushioning foam is springy and suitable for short runs and gym workouts. It’s a sensible option if running is just one of several activities you do during the week.
- Drop:8 mm
- Weight: 270g
- Regular price: 90 EUR
Beginner Running
Asics Gel-Pulse 17
The Asics Gel-Pulse 17 is one of the most affordable training shoes in the brand’s collection. It’s perfect for beginners who want comfort without all the extras. The midsole is made of Amplifoam, which provides a soft yet stable landing. Add to that the classic Gel system in the heel, which absorbs shock and relieves pressure on the joints. The breathable mesh upper keeps your foot in place and is ideal for warmer days. The Gel-Pulse is like a solid hatchback: it won’t blow you away with its performance, but it will get the job done.
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 256g men’s, 212g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Brooks Trace 4
The Brooks Trace 4 is one of the most affordable models in the Brooks portfolio. It is designed for beginners and those looking for a simple, comfortable running shoe. Its midsole uses DNA Loft v2 foam, which is soft, lightweight, and shock-absorbing. This foam provides a smooth landing and easy roll. The midsole geometry is neutral and free of unnecessary frills. The breathable mesh upper has gently reinforced support zones and fits well without pinching. The 12 mm drop promotes a stronger heel strike.
- Stack height: 34/22mm
- Drop: 12mm
- Weight: 263g men’s, 229g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Kiprun Cushion 500
The Kiprun Cushion 500, a budget model from Decathlon, is designed for beginner runners who want comfort and simplicity. The midsole is made of moderately soft MFoam foam. The shoe’s geometry promotes a neutral roll without interfering with the stride’s biomechanics. The classic, breathable mesh upper provides basic support in the midfoot and a fairly wide interior. This uncomplicated, comfortable shoe is perfect for the beginning of your running journey, when you’re not sure if running is for you.
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 260g men’s, 214g women’s
- Regular price: 70 EUR
Nike Winflo 11
The Nike Winflo 11 is a classic, versatile training shoe designed for beginner and recreational runners. Its midsole features Cushlon 3.0 foam, which provides a soft landing and comfortable roll. Additionally, the full-length Zoom Air cushion provides extra bounce, especially during takeoff. The breathable mesh upper secures the foot and performs well in warm conditions. The gusseted tongue prevents slippage while running. With a 10 mm drop and an approximate weight of 300-320 g, this is an everyday shoe ideal for easy-paced road training. It’s a solid option for starting your running adventure or as a soft pair for rotation.
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 296g
- Regular price: 110 EUR
New Balance 680 v8
The New Balance 680 v8 is an affordable training shoe designed for beginner runners who want comfort without unnecessary features. Its Fresh Foam midsole provides a soft landing and smooth transition, and is slightly more responsive than previous versions. The breathable mesh upper has a classic construction with a pronounced heel counter that keeps the foot in place. The entire shoe has a 10 mm drop and weighs approximately 290–310 g, depending on the size. It is a solid, neutral shoe for everyday training, especially for beginners or recreational runners – like a comfortable sedan that never fails on your daily route.
- Drop: 12mm
- Weight: 297g men’s, 238g women’s
- Regular price: 115 EUR
Daily Trainers
adidas Supernova Stride 2
The adidas Supernova Stride is one of the newest models on the market. It is designed for beginner and intermediate runners looking for comfort and smoothness. Its midsole combines Dreamstrike+ foam in the forefoot and classic EVA in the rear to provide a soft landing and springy bounce without excessive dynamics. A wide platform and the Support Rods system improve stability. The Support Rods system consists of stiffeners in the midsole inspired by the structure of the foot. The breathable mesh upper has a soft finish at the ankle for added comfort over longer distances.
- Stack height: 34/23mm
- Drop: 11mm
- Weight: 268g men’s, 213g women’s
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Asics GT-1000 13
The Asics GT-1000 13 is a classic stability shoe for beginner and intermediate runners with slight overpronation. The latest version features Flytefoam technology for a springy yet stable ride. The Litetruss system in the midsole provides internal support, reducing excessive rotation and ankle pronation. Additionally, proven GEL technology under the heel reduces shock upon landing. The GT-1000 13 is a reliable choice among overpronation stability shoes.
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 270g men’s, 233g women’s
- Regular price: 130 EUR
Nike Pegasus 41
The Nike Pegasus 41 is a classic running shoe that remains true to its versatile design. Its midsole is made of two layers of ReactX foam, which provides excellent shock absorption. Additionally, Zoom Air cushions in the forefoot and heel are known for their dynamic, springy feel. The breathable Engineered Mesh upper has a well-fitting collar and classic lacing. This model is ideal for everyday use by beginners and can also withstand faster or longer runs.
- Stack height: 37/27mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 297g men’s, 251g women’s
- Regular price: 140 EUR
Puma Electrify Nitro 4
The lightweight, neutral Puma Electrify Nitro 4 training shoe is ideal for beginner and intermediate runners. Its midsole combines responsive Nitro foam and stable Profoam Lite for soft landings and good rebound. The Pumagrip outsole provides traction on hard surfaces and light terrain. This versatile shoe is ideal for everyday running and distances ranging from a few to several kilometers.
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 275g men’s, 218g women’s
- Regular price: 100 EUR
Saucony Axon 3
The Saucony Axon 3 is a well-cushioned shoe made with EVA and PWRrun foams. As befits a Saucony training shoe, it has a well-contoured front, which translates to good dynamics. It is an excellent choice for runners who want a comfortable, cushioned training shoe with slightly faster dynamics. For lighter runners, it is comfortable for distances up to a half marathon.
- Stack height: 35/31mm
- Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 243g men’s, 214g women’s
- Regular price: 125 EUR
