Our team tests 120+ running shoes for at least 50 miles. These are the best affordable running shoes in 2020.
Updated: September 2nd, 2020
We don't accept free products or compensation in exchange for our reviews.
We are reader supported, and earn affiliate commissions when you buy through us.
BEST VALUE
BEST VALUE
BEST VALUE
Saucony Cohesion 13
Saucony Cohesion 13
While it might not shine on any particular aspect, the Cohesion is one of the cheapest running shoe on the market while performing like expensive ones
“The Saucony Cohesion 13 is a great, budget friendly running shoe that ticks all the boxes for runners who want to protect their feet and enjoy a comfortable ride for their first 5km or 10km run.
”
Recommended for
The Cohesion 13 is a simple, entry level neutral running shoe for runners looking for their first pair of running shoes, or to replace another pair of trust Saucony’s. For runners looking to keep costs down but get a shoe that they can trust to do the job, mile after mile, the Cohesion 13 is...
“The Nike Downshifter 10 stands out from Nike’s running shoe line up due to it’s low cost list price and premium design. Throughout testing it performed well as a lightweight, cushioned, breathable running shoe which exceeded my expectations as a daily trainer.”
Recommended for
The Downshifter 10 is designed for runners on a budget, who want a shoe from a top trusted brand, that looks the part and ticks boxes when it comes to performance. It doubles up as a workout shoe for light gym workouts, or a casual trainer for day to day wear.
“The Nike Revolution 5 is a good all-round shoe that looks good and will see you well through shorter, dry weather runs and a variety of indoor gym classes and workouts.”
Recommended for
The Nike Revolution 5 is designed for fair weather road running as well as indoor workouts. It's designed for beginner runners who may not be 100% certain on the specifics of the activity that they'll use it for and want a shoe that is a good all-rounder.
“The Under Armour Micro G pursuit is a good, well priced, comfortable running shoe that you could happily wear all day. For longer distance runs over uneven terrain, a more stable running shoe would provide better support.”
Recommended for
The Under Armour Micro G pursuit suits runners who prefer training in a gym, or flat road running, and are looking for a neutral ride and a running shoe that can be worn before, during and after exercise.
“The Nike Winflo 6 is a well cushioned daily trainer that comes with notable upgrades when compared to its predecessor. The newer styling blends in with the more elite Nike shoes, but features a price for the budget conscious.”
Recommended for
This shoe is for low to moderate mileage runners who want the newest of Nike available at a low price point. Those with a neutral gait and interest in moderate cushioning will enjoy the shoe the most.
“The Asics GEL-Excite 7 follows in the footsteps of the previous successful six shoes on the Excite line created to bring value and comfort. The use of GEL cushioning with AMPLIFOAM ensures a comfortable fit for most.”
Recommended for
Newer runners and low mileage runners looking for a stable and well tested shoe should consider the GEL-Excite 7s. Most of the shoes by Asics stick close to their winning formula, so risk-averse runners looking for something reliable will enjoy this shoe which sacrifices the newest tech for...
“The fourth version of the New Balance Fuelcore Coast features a low-profile, lightweight design that makes it an ideal entry-level trainer for daily use. This budget-friendly, stylish shoe easily transitions from a workout to casual streetwear.”
Recommended for
New runners with a neutral foot-strike that are running low to medium weekly mileage (up to 40 miles per week). The New Balance Fuelcore Coast also provides an attractive alternative for fans of the Nike Free Flyknit series who are looking for a more affordable and durable option.
Buying last year’s premium shoes is also an option
Each year, brands introduce new versions of a shoe and retailers have one or two months to get rid of the remaining inventory.
This means that you’ll be able to get last year version of a premium shoe for up to half the regular retail price. This means a $120 running shoe can easily be purchased for $60-70, if you have patience and look around.
On these and other websites owned by RSG Media BV we use cookies and other similar techniques.
We place and use different types of cookies for the following purposes:
Functional cookies:
To make our websites work as intended.
Analytical cookies:
To collect and analyze statistics to improve the experience on our websites and the effectiveness of advertisements.
Tracking cookies:
To build personal profiles of you so that we can show you targeted content and advertisements that match your interests.
Social cookies:
To allow you to share your reaction through 'likes' or commentary.
In addition, third parties (which are partly outside the EU) can place cookies on our websites, including tracking cookies that can also be used to build up a profile of you. Tracking cookies may have an impact on your privacy.
By giving your consent below, you agree that we place and read cookies on all our websites (see this overview) and combine these collected data.
Your consent remains valid for 6 months unless you withdraw it.
by Coach P. Hoyal, NAIA Track & Field All American
