Budget Running Shoes

Top picks under $100

Running shoes are getting increasingly expensive. Most new running shoes in 2009 saw price increases between $10 and $30, with the majority of brand-name running shoes now costing well over $120. Considering that running shoes need to be replaced every 300 to 500 miles, the cost can add up quickly for high-mileage runners. One tactic is to keep an eye on sales and buy last year's models/colors as inventory is cleared out for the current model year. Early spring is a good time to find both current models and last year's versions still on store shelves. You can often save a good $30 or $40 by buying the outgoing model.

There are several good options under $100, so don't let a low price tag discourage you from considering a particular shoe. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in October 2007 attempted to determine if more expensive running shoes provide better cushioning than less expensive options. Three pairs of running shoes were bought from three different manufacturers in three different price ranges. It was found that the low- and medium-cost running shoes offered the same cushioning and support as the more expensive options. Unfortunately, the study didn't identify the brands tested. So does that mean that spending $120 to $140 for a pair of running shoes is a waste of money?

Not necessarily. Every runner, brand and model of running shoe is different, even if only slightly. The challenge is to match the features of each runner to the features and fit of a particular brand and model. The British study measured peak forces, but peak forces are not the biggest issue facing a runner. High forces at toe off are believed to be far less harmful than high forces on initial impact, when your body has not yet had a chance to adjust to what is coming. The figures may change over the course of a run as the runner tires, not just in a few strides over a force plate, as done in this British study.

The durability of the cushioning is another issue. The right density of midsole foam might give great results initially but if the foam quickly compresses, the shoes will wear out fast. The lesson to be learned from this British study is that brand is irrelevant. If the shoe fits well, the name doesn't matter. Paying a high price for a running shoe can be worth it if that shoe provides the flexibility and support for your individual foot.

Most specialty running magazines don't focus on the budget category, but user reviews provide ample feedback on running shoes that won't break the bank.

Budget stability shoes

The Asics Gel-1140 (*Est. $90) is a well-reviewed running shoe that costs $50 less than most other stability shoes. Runner's World labeled it a Best Buy in December 2008, and over a dozen reviewers praise this Asics running shoe on Buzzillions.com. Reviewers like the value, gel-cushioning and arch support, but one critic finds that the 1140 wears out more quickly than other stability models.

Another stability option that won't wreck your budget is the New Balance 749 (*Est. $800). Shape magazine picks the 749 as the best stability shoe of 2009, regardless of price. New Balance uses Acteva Lite foam in the midsole, which makes it 24 percent lighter than traditional midsoles (according to the manufacturer). A medial post provides stability for mild overpronators.

The Mizuno Wave Nexus 3 (*Est. $80) is another Runner's World Best Buy for 2009. The new model has not changed substantially from last year's version, but it still offers adequate stability for the price. Mizuno changed the midsole foam and enlarged the toebox, which impresses Runner's World testers. Running Times also praises the Wave Nexus 3, calling it a good value.

Budget neutral running shoes

The Saucony Grid Cohesion NX (*Est. $55) is a clear favorite among budget-friendly neutral shoes. Out of nearly 100 reviews on Buzzillions.com, the Grid Cohesion NX is praised for comfort and cushioning. Multiple reviewers mention that the Saucony running shoe fits well on both wide and narrow feet, although several runners find the heel cushioning too hard. The mesh upper helps enhance breathability and keeps feet cool.

Saucony has another popular budget option in the Grid C2 Roadster (*Est. $75). This running shoe receives positive feedback on Buzzillions, with the majority liking the fit and road feel of this neutral running shoe. Many reviewers mention that the shoes are comfortable right out of the box. Critics find the support lacking and think it is narrower than previous versions.

The Adidas Supernova Sequence (*Est. $95) just barely slides in under the $100 mark, but it is picked as a favorite by Men's Journal magazine. Testers for the magazine find the shoe plush and comfortable, while still providing adequate support. The seamless upper reduces skin irritation and adiPRENE in the heel cup helps protect the foot from impact forces.

A major consumer testing organization picks the men's C9 by Champion Helium (*Est. $30) and the women's C9 by Champion Wonder (*Est. $28) as the best bets for runners on a budget. However, neither of these shoes are recommended for serious or high-mileage runners. Both models score "good" ratings on cushioning and stability, but receive only fair marks for breathability.

Budget motion-control shoes

Motion-control shoes are typically quite expensive, because extra materials and construction are required to prevent excessive pronation. Unfortunately, we could not find a well-reviewed budget running shoe in this category.