After testing dozens of pairs of everyday running shoes released throughout the year, our expert shoe reviewer Alex Cyr has selected the best five running shoes for beginners, and then ranked them from five to one.
He tells us why he selected each running sneaker, what are their main strengths, and which ones score for being most injury-resistant, most durable for running high mileage, and most comfortable for everyday easy runs.
As always, our recommendation for buying any running shoe is to go to a store and try it out – as well as a few other models. Comfort is king!
Let’s jump in:
The Top 5 Running Shoes For Beginners Right Now:
#5 – Best for Reliability: Brooks Ghost 16
#4 – Best for Overpronators: Saucony Tempus 2
#3 – Best for Durability: New Balance 880V14
#2 – Best for Maximum Cushioning: Hoka Clifton 9
#1 – Best Overall: Asics Gel Nimbus 26
- All of our shoe testers are died-in-the-wool, experienced runners with a broad experience of the sport. They’re typically running 30+ miles per week.
- We put each pair of shoes through a battery of tests: a typical review will involve several test runs on a variety of distances and terrains, designed to identify any snags or issues.
- We talk to experts in the shoe industry and gather advice and insights from other runners, to best understand the shoe and how it suits the end user: you, the runner.
#5 Best for Reliability: Brooks Ghost 16
The Brooks Ghost 16 is a neutral daily trainer that offers a balance between cushioning and responsiveness. It features an engineered mesh upper for breathability and a secure fit, paired with a nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole for a soft yet energetic ride.
The segmented crash pad outsole ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making it ideal for long runs or daily wear. Weighing 9.8 oz with a 12 mm drop, this shoe is perfect for heel strikers and is available in multiple widths to accommodate diverse foot shapes.
Why We Love It:
- Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam provides soft yet responsive cushioning.
- Available in a range of widths to suit different foot shapes.
- Plush, padded tongue and collar enhance step-in comfort.
Potential Drawbacks:
- High 12 mm drop may not suit midfoot or forefoot strikers.
- Slightly heavier compared to other neutral trainers in its category.
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Brooks Ghost 16
- MSRP: $140 USD
- Release Date: May 1, 2024
- Stack Height: Heel: 35.5 mm; Forefoot: 23.5 mm
- Weight: Men’s size 9: 9.8 oz (278g); Women’s size 8: 8.8 oz (249g)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 12 mm
#4 Best for Overpronators: Saucony Tempus 2
The Saucony Tempus 2 is a stability running shoe designed for runners who need support without compromising cushioning or responsiveness. Its FORMFIT mesh upper adapts to the foot, providing a secure and personalized fit. The midsole combines PWRRUN PB foam for energy return with a PWRRUN Frame for added guidance, ensuring a lightweight yet supportive experience. At 8.9 oz with an 8 mm drop, this shoe caters to overpronators looking for a dynamic ride.
Why We Love It:
- Lightweight foam for great cushioning and impressive energy return.
- The frame is designed to offer subtle guidance for overpronation.
- Lightweight design enhances speed and performance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Stability features might feel intrusive for neutral runners.
- Limited color options may not appeal to all tastes.
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Saucony Tempus 2
- MSRP: $160 USD
- Release Date: July 2024
- Stack Height: Heel: 33 mm; Forefoot: 25 mm
- Weight: Men’s size 9: 9.1 oz (258g); Women’s size 8: 8.1 oz (230g)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 8 mm
#3 Best for Durability: New Balance 880V14
The New Balance 880v14 is a reliable neutral trainer designed for daily runs, offering a comfortable and durable build. The double jacquard mesh upper promotes breathability and stability, while the Fresh Foam X midsole provides a plush yet responsive ride. Its rubber outsole delivers excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for various surfaces. Weighing 9.6 oz with a 10 mm drop, the 880v14 is available in a variety of widths to accommodate diverse foot shapes.
Why We Love It:
- Fresh Foam X midsole offers plush cushioning with a responsive feel.
- Breathable and supportive double jacquard mesh upper.
- Blown rubber outsole ensures durability and excellent traction.
- Available in multiple width options for a tailored fit.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Moderate responsiveness may not appeal to runners seeking a faster shoe.
- Heavier compared to some other neutral trainers.
The Deets: Tech Specs For The New Balance 880V14
- MSRP: $140 USD
- Release Date: April 2024
- Stack Height: Heel: 29 mm; Forefoot: 19 mm
- Weight: Men’s size 9: 9.6 oz (272g); Women’s size 8: 8.4 oz (238g)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 10 mm
#2 Best for Maximum Cushioning: Hoka Clifton 9
The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight neutral running shoe known for its plush cushioning and signature Hoka comfort. Its engineered knit upper provides breathability and a secure fit, while the EVA foam midsole delivers a soft, cushioned ride ideal for daily training or long-distance runs. The Durabrasion rubber outsole enhances durability without adding extra weight. At 8.7 oz with a 5 mm drop, the Clifton 9 is perfect for runners who value comfort and natural movement.
Why We Love It:
- The foam midsole provides signature soft cushioning.
- Lightweight design at 8.7 oz ensures effortless strides.
- Engineered knit upper enhances breathability and comfort.
- Durable outsole strategically placed to reduce weight.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited stability features may not suit overpronators.
- Soft cushioning may feel less responsive for speedwork or racing.
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Hoka Clifton 9
- MSRP: $145 USD
- Release Date: February 2024
- Stack Height: Heel: 32 mm; Forefoot: 27 mm
- Weight: Men’s size 9: 8.7 oz (247g); Women’s size 8: 7.3 oz (207g)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 5 mm
#1 Best Overall: Asics Gel Nimbus 26
The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is a premium neutral running shoe designed for plush comfort and long-distance performance. Its engineered mesh upper with 3D Space Construction provides a breathable and adaptive fit, while the FF BLAST PLUS midsole and GEL technology deliver a soft yet responsive ride.
The AHAR outsole ensures durability and traction, making this shoe ideal for daily training and high-mileage runners. At 10.5 oz with a 10 mm drop, it’s suitable for a variety of running styles and available in multiple widths.
Why We Love It:
- New midsole and gel technology provide exceptional cushioning.
- Durable outsole offers reliable traction across surfaces.
- Upper adapts to the foot for a custom feel.
- Excellent option for long-distance runs due to plush comfort.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Higher price point may deter budget-conscious runners.
- Heavier than other neutral trainers in its class.
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Asics Gel Nimbus 26
- MSRP: $160 USD
- Release Date: January 2024
- Stack Height: Heel: 26 mm; Forefoot: 16 mm
- Weight: Men’s size 9: 10.5 oz (298g); Women’s size 8: 9.2 oz (261g)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 10 mm
