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10 Best Cheap Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Peacoat/Raspberry/Apricot - 8 Medium

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,320
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support

Most important from
5746 reviews

Fit
Amazingly comfortable with excellent quality and true-to-size fit.
Cushioning
Perfect for those with severe neuropathy, offering exceptional cushion and arch support.
Arch Support
Perfect for those with severe neuropathy, offering exceptional cushion and arch support.
Durability
Durability is expected to be good, as with other Brooks shoes.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is designed for runners who desire a comfortable and smooth experience. It excels in providing a secure fit through its 3D Fit Print technology, ensuring that your foot feels snug without being restrictive. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning offers a soft and lightweight feel, ideal for running on roads or engaging in cross-training activities. This cushioning helps in absorbing impact, making each step comfortable and reducing fatigue over long distances.

The shoe is great for neutral support but may not provide the necessary arch support for individuals with high arches or pronation issues. The transition from landing to toe-off is designed to be smooth, which is a plus for maintaining a natural running gait. Durability is bolstered by the Roadtack rubber outsole, which includes recycled materials and is intended to be lightweight yet resilient.

Breathability is another strong point, thanks to the engineered air mesh upper that allows for proper air circulation, keeping your feet cool and dry even during intense runs. Classified as PDAC A5500 Diabetic and having the APMA Seal of Acceptance, the shoe promotes overall foot health. It might appeal to eco-conscious consumers as it is certified carbon-neutral. Additionally, the shoe's machine-washable feature adds a layer of convenience for easy maintenance.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,320
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support

Most important from
5746 reviews

Fit
Amazingly comfortable with excellent quality and true-to-size fit.
Cushioning
Perfect for those with severe neuropathy, offering exceptional cushion and arch support.
Arch Support
Perfect for those with severe neuropathy, offering exceptional cushion and arch support.
Durability
Durability is expected to be good, as with other Brooks shoes.
#2

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe - Orchid/Coconut/Purple - 9 Medium

Rating
9.6
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support

Most important from
2546 reviews

Fit
Perfect for plantar fasciitis sufferers; they felt great right out of the box with no break-in period needed.
Cushioning
The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides impressive comfort and keeps the shoe lightweight, making it ideal for long runs.
Arch Support
The Guiderails Holistic Support System is excellent for keeping feet and body in alignment without feeling restrictive.
Breathability
The engineered air mesh upper is breathable and flexible, offering a great fit that adapts to your foot.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe seems like a good option for those seeking affordable running shoes. It offers solid fit and support, thanks to the innovative Guiderails Holistic Support System, which helps maintain natural body motion and control excess movements. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides lightweight, plush comfort and adapts to your stride, making it ideal for long runs.

Arch support appears well-addressed with the dynamic cushioning technology which also aids in smooth transitions during runs. The smooth transition design of the outsole and midsole implies a balanced drop which can be comfortable for most runners. Durability is likely decent with nylon outer material and rubber soles, though the imported nature might hint at varied quality. Breathability is enhanced by the engineered air mesh upper, which ensures your feet stay cool and comfortable.

The shoe is also recognized for diabetic use, adding a layer of trustworthiness for those with specific health needs. However, hand wash-only care instructions may be a bit inconvenient for some. It's a supportive and comfortable choice for budget-conscious runners.

Rating
9.6
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support

Most important from
2546 reviews

Fit
Perfect for plantar fasciitis sufferers; they felt great right out of the box with no break-in period needed.
Cushioning
The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides impressive comfort and keeps the shoe lightweight, making it ideal for long runs.
Arch Support
The Guiderails Holistic Support System is excellent for keeping feet and body in alignment without feeling restrictive.
Breathability
The engineered air mesh upper is breathable and flexible, offering a great fit that adapts to your foot.
#3

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10 Camo, (001) Black/Black/Pitch Gray, 10, US

Rating
9.4
Fit
Cushioning
Durability

Most important from
17271 reviews

Fit
A snug yet roomy fit, especially when sizing up slightly or opting for a wider version, offers secure heel and midfoot support while relieving pressure on the toes.
Cushioning
These shoes provide excellent cushioning that balances firmness with responsiveness, delivering real support that holds up even after long hours on your feet.
Durability
Lightweight design combined with durable construction ensures stability and endurance without feeling bulky or heavy.
Breathability
The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and comfortable throughout extended wear, making them suitable for both running and all-day use.

The Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10 Camo is a lightweight running shoe designed for those seeking a budget-friendly option with decent performance. Its mesh upper ensures good breathability, keeping your feet cool during runs. The synthetic overlays add some durability and support, though it might not be the toughest for long-term heavy use.

Cushioning is a strong point here — the EVA sockliner offers soft comfort when you step in, while the Charged Cushioning midsole provides responsive foam that absorbs impact well, helping reduce strain on your feet. With a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, it suits runners who prefer a moderate incline that promotes a natural running stride. The shoe is described as neutral, which means it’s best for runners who don’t need special arch support but want flexibility and cushioning. However, if you have high arches or need extra support, this might not be the ideal choice.

The outsole uses solid rubber in high-impact areas, balancing durability with a lightweight feel at just 9.5 ounces. These shoes perform well if you want breathable, comfortable footwear for everyday running without spending much, but serious runners or those needing specialized support might look elsewhere.

Rating
9.4
Fit
Cushioning
Durability

Most important from
17271 reviews

Fit
A snug yet roomy fit, especially when sizing up slightly or opting for a wider version, offers secure heel and midfoot support while relieving pressure on the toes.
Cushioning
These shoes provide excellent cushioning that balances firmness with responsiveness, delivering real support that holds up even after long hours on your feet.
Durability
Lightweight design combined with durable construction ensures stability and endurance without feeling bulky or heavy.
Breathability
The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and comfortable throughout extended wear, making them suitable for both running and all-day use.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Running Shoes

Choosing the right running shoes is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. When selecting running shoes, it's important to consider various factors that will affect your running experience. Here are some key specifications to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
FitThe fit of the shoe is how well it conforms to the shape of your foot. A good fit is essential to prevent blisters, discomfort, and injuries. Shoes that are too tight can cause pain, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability. To find the right fit, ensure there is about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The shoe should feel snug around the midfoot and heel without being restrictive.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe, which affects shock absorption and comfort. Shoes with more cushioning are ideal for long-distance running or for runners who prefer a softer feel. Less cushioning can provide a more responsive and natural running experience, which is often preferred by experienced runners or those running shorter distances. Consider your running style and the type of terrain you will be running on when choosing the level of cushioning.
Arch SupportArch support is the level of support provided to the arch of your foot. This is important for maintaining proper alignment and preventing injuries. There are three main types of arch support: neutral, stability, and motion control. Neutral shoes are suitable for runners with normal arches, stability shoes are for those with mild to moderate overpronation, and motion control shoes are for severe overpronation. Determine your arch type and pronation pattern to choose the right level of support.
Heel-to-Toe DropThe heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of the shoe. This affects your running mechanics and can influence comfort and performance. A higher drop (8-12mm) can provide more heel cushioning and is suitable for heel strikers. A lower drop (0-4mm) promotes a more natural running gait and is preferred by midfoot or forefoot strikers. Consider your running style and any previous injuries when selecting the heel-to-toe drop.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the shoes will last before they need to be replaced. This is influenced by the materials used in the shoe's construction and the type of running you do. Shoes with durable outsoles and high-quality uppers will last longer, especially if you run on rough terrain or frequently. If you run primarily on roads or treadmills, you may not need as much durability. Assess your running habits and choose a shoe that will provide the longevity you need.
BreathabilityBreathability is the shoe's ability to allow air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important for comfort, especially during long runs or in hot weather. Shoes with mesh uppers or ventilation features offer better breathability. If you tend to sweat a lot or run in warm climates, prioritize shoes with good breathability to prevent discomfort and blisters.

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