Best running trainers for beginners, tried and tested for comfort, stability and value

If you're new to running, choosing your first pair of trainers shouldn't feel more daunting than the run itself.

But, a quick search for running shoes can leave you with more questions than answers. With countless features, technologies and technical terms to navigate, it's not always obvious where to begin.

For example, if you're buying your first pair of running shoes, you may come across terms like stack height and heel-to-toe drop. Don't worry if they're unfamiliar – we've included a handy guide at the end of this article explaining the key running shoe features and what they mean in practice.

JUMP TO:

• Best running trainers to buy in 2026
• Common running shoe terms explained

The good news is that you don't need the most expensive running trainers on the market to get started. Equally, if investing in a premium pair gives you the motivation to lace up and get out the door, that can be money well spent.

As a qualified fitness expert and professional-level athlete, trainers are a huge part of my life. I wear them every day, whether I'm training, coaching or simply heading out for a walk.

And, while performance is important, there's no denying that feeling good in your running trainers can provide an extra boost of confidence when you're building a new habit.

Over the years, I've tested trainers across every price point and experienced plenty of highs and lows along the way.

I've run in shoes with towering stacks of foam that left me feeling unstable, pairs that rubbed in all the wrong places and trainers that gave me blisters before I'd barely made it out of the front door.

Thankfully, I've also found trainers that felt comfortable from the very first run and made me look forward to the next one – and that's exactly what I've looked for in this round-up.

Best running trainers for beginners at a glance

JUMP TO REVIEWS

• Best running trainers for beginners: Saucony Women’s Endorphin Azura, £112
• Best long-distance running trainers for beginners: Under Armour UA Velociti Distance women’s running trainers, £145
• Best speed running trainers for beginners: HOKA Mach 7 men’s running trainers, £140
• Best everyday running trainers for beginners: Mizuno Wave Rider 30, £140
• Best 5K running trainers for beginners: Kiprun Kipcore men’s running trainers, £59.99
• Best carbon-plated running trainers for beginners: HOKA Cielo X1 3.0, £250
• Best trail running trainers for beginners: Saucony Women’s Peregrine 16, £112
• Best cushioned running trainers for beginners: Kiprun Kipride Max women’s road running trainers, £119.99
• Best stylish running trainers for beginners: Adidas Adizero Evo SL, £130
• Best running trainers for beginners with wide feet: KEEN Men’s Roam trail running trainers, £130
• Best budget running trainers for beginners: ALLSWIFIT non-slip lightweight running trainers, £33.99
• Best affordable women’s running trainers for beginners: NORTIV 8 Women’s ActiveBreeze running trainers, £37.99

What are the best running trainers for beginners?

You'll find trending running trainers from brands including Adidas, New Balance and Puma, many of which you'll spot at your local parkrun and on gym floors across the country.

Many of the trainers featured here are available in both men's and women's styles, often with different colourways and fit profiles, which I've highlighted where relevant throughout my reviews.

While performance remains the priority, plenty have also become style favourites, with the latest releases available from retailers such as Size?, Sports Direct, Footasylum and MyProtein.

Our round-up caters to a range of budgets, too. If you're happy to invest in a premium pair from HOKA, Saucony or ASICS, you'll find options that can comfortably take you from your first run all the way through to race day.

If you'd rather not spend £100-plus on your first pair, we've also included more affordable options that still deliver comfort, support and durability for beginner runners.

Of course, running trainers are only one piece of the puzzle. If you're building a beginner-friendly running set-up, be sure to check out our guides to the best running socks, best running belts, best running water bottles, best hydration vests and best running backpacks, all tested by our experts to help make your runs more comfortable.

Don't forget the essentials: check out every running product and supplement I've personally rated 5/5 stars before your next run.

When you're just starting out, the goal isn't to shave minutes off your race time – it's to find a pair of running trainers that help you take that first step, build confidence and enjoy running enough to stick with it.

How we tested for the best running shoes for beginners

The best running trainers for beginners need to work just as well for someone starting their Couch to 5K journey as they do for someone who already runs regularly. That's why I wanted this testing process to reflect a range of ages, fitness levels and running goals.

Alongside my own testing, I enlisted the help of my mum and stepdad, both in their 60s, who joined me for a series of light jogs and run-walk sessions.

Members of the Good Food team also helped put the trainers through their paces, including our reviews editor Lydia Anderson, who tested shoes while getting back into jogging.

My training partner tested selected styles both in the gym and outdoors. As someone who runs regularly while managing an injury, he was able to provide feedback on cushioning and long-term comfort.

Between us, we tested the trainers on pavements, park paths, grass, trails, treadmills and during gym sessions.

I personally wore them everywhere from the wet countryside back home in Scotland to London's busy urban running routes when I returned to work.

Throughout testing, we assessed comfort, fit, cushioning, stability, versatility, durability and value for money to identify the best running trainers for beginners.

Best running trainers for beginners for comfort, stability and value

Saucony Women’s Endorphin Azura

Available from Saucony (£112)

Best running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Soft, springy cushioning
• Lightweight 212g design
• Wider platform adds stability
• Comfortable without a break-in period

Cons:

• No dedicated overpronation support
• Occasional ankle slipping

Star rating: 5/5

Soft, springy and comfortable from the first run, the Endorphin Azura felt like an extension of our tester's foot. Its full-length midsole cushioned each landing, while the 40mm heel, 32mm forefoot design created a smooth, responsive transition.

Despite the generous cushioning, it weighs just 212g. The wider platform felt reassuring underfoot, while the secure upper and well-held tongue kept our tester's foot in place once she had loosened and retied the laces. Our tester experienced no rubbing or discomfort, even straight from the box.

This is a neutral, plate-free shoe rather than a structured stability trainer, so there was occasional ankle slipping. It is also a higher-priced first-shoe purchase. Still, its balance of bounce, comfort and beginner-friendly stability makes it an excellent five-star daily trainer.

Available from:

• Saucony (£112)

Under Armour UA Velociti Distance women's running shoes

Available from Under Armour (£145)

Best long-distance running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Full-length cushioning
• Breathable mono-mesh upper
• Light guidance from the internal frame
• Comfortable, balanced design for longer distances

Cons:

• Premium price
• No dedicated overpronation control
• Best suited to dry road conditions

Star rating: 5/5

Cushioning is the main draw here. The full-length UA HOVR+ midsole is designed to feel lighter and softer, with added bounce to help take the impact out of repeated road miles. At approximately 244g, the shoe is also lighter than its substantial cushioning might suggest.

The ventilated mono-mesh upper helps keep feet cool, while the internal midfoot and forefoot cage, and translucent frame provide structure and light guidance. A 6mm heel-to-toe drop encourages a smooth transition, and the traditional tongue, collar and lacing system keep the fit familiar.

This is a premium choice and its neutral design will not replace a structured stability shoe. However, the cushioning, breathability and gentle guidance make it a strong option for runners building distance or wanting more protection during long, steady sessions.

Available from:

• Under Armour (£145)

HOKA Mach 7 men's running shoes

Available from HOKA (£140)

Best speed running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Responsive supercritical EVA cushioning
• Lightweight at 237g
• Secure internal gusset and flat tongue
• Available in regular and wide widths

Cons:

• Premium price
• No dedicated overpronation support
• Customers are advised to consider going up half a size

Star rating: 5/5

Light enough for intervals but cushioned enough for everyday miles, the Mach 7 is a versatile option for runners who want to pick up the pace. Its supercritical EVA midsole and low-profile cushioning create a responsive ride, while the 5mm offset helps support a quick, controlled transition.

The airy creel jacquard upper adds targeted breathability, and the internal gusset holds the foot securely during faster sessions. Sticky forefoot rubber supports grip at toe-off, while Durabrasion rubber protects the heel without adding unnecessary weight.

The firmer ride may not suit anyone looking for maximum softness. It is also neutral rather than stability-focused. However, the light build, secure fit and balance of speed and cushioning make it a strong choice for tempo runs, intervals and daily training.

Available from:

• HOKA (£140)

Mizuno Wave Rider 30 running shoes

Available from Mizuno (£140)

Best everyday running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Soft dual-layer Mizuno Enerzy Nxt cushioning
• Wider midfoot for added stability
• Smooth full-length Wave Plate
• Durable X10 carbon-rubber outsole

Cons:

• Moderate rather than lightweight at 265g
• No dedicated wide-fit or overpronation support

Star rating: 4.5/5

The Wave Rider 30 combines a cushioned ride with enough structure to feel reassuring on everyday runs. Its dual-layer Mizuno Enerzy Nxt midsole uses a nitrogen-infused top layer for cushioning and energy return, balanced by firmer EVA underneath. A full-length Wave Plate helps guide the foot smoothly from heel to toe.

The 42.5mm heel, 34.5mm forefoot and familiar 8mm drop make it approachable for beginners moving into road running. Mizuno has widened the midfoot by 14mm compared with the previous model, creating a planted base without adding weight. AIRmesh and 1BY1 mesh keep the upper breathable, while the fitted heel supports a secure feel.

At 265g, it is not the lightest trainer. It is also neutral rather than a dedicated overpronation shoe. Still, the controlled cushioning, durable X10 rubber and broad size range make it a dependable choice for easy runs and weekly mileage.

Available from:

• Mizuno (£140)

Kiprun Kipcore men's running shoes

Available from Decathlon (£59.99)

Best 5k running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Excellent value
• Soft Mfoam cushioning
• Reinforced heel support
• Removable insoles

Cons:

• No dedicated overpronation support
• Not waterproof
• Designed for runs up to 10km

Star rating: 4.5/5

At under £60, the Kipcore offers an impressive introduction to road running. The Mfoam midsole provides a soft, cushioned base, while reinforced sections around the heel and laces help hold the foot securely without making the shoe feel overly structured.

The supple mesh upper is padded around the heel and tongue, and an 8mm drop gives the shoe a familiar, approachable feel. At 264g it is not exceptionally light but it feels well suited to gentle runs, quicker efforts and building towards a first 5k or 10k.

This is a neutral, medium-width trainer rather than a stability shoe, and it is intended for 1-10k runs and up to 30k per week. However, the high cushioning, removable insole, true-to-size guidance and two-year warranty make it excellent value for beginners.

Available from:

• Decathlon (£59.99)

HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 all-gender race shoes

Available from HOKA (£250)

Best carbon-plated running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Responsive PEBA superfoam
• Propulsive carbon-fibre plate
• Very lightweight at 213g
• Highly breathable Leno-weave upper
• Designed for racing from 5K to marathon distance

Cons:

• Very expensive
• No wide-fit option
• No dedicated overpronation support

Star rating: 4.5/5

Built for speed, the Cielo X1 3.0 combines a responsive PEBA midsole with a carbon-fibre plate and MetaRocker geometry. The result is a propulsive setup designed to keep you moving forward, while the 38mm heel stack adds enough cushioning for races from 5K to marathon distance.

At 213g in HOKA’s reference size, it is impressively light for such a cushioned shoe. The breathable Leno-weave upper removes excess bulk, while the dynamic vamp allows the forefoot to spread. Asymmetric lacing and refined heel geometry add security and greater control at speed.

At £250, this is a serious race-day investment rather than a daily trainer. The carbon plate, 7mm drop and aggressive rocker may need an adjustment period, and there is no wide or structured stability option.

Available from:

• HOKA (£250)

Saucony Women's Peregrine 16 running shoes

Available from Saucony (£112)

Best trail running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Full-coverage Vibram MegaGrip outsole
• 4mm trail lugs
• Protective rubber toe wrap
• Relatively lightweight at 239g

Cons:

• No dedicated overpronation support
• Not waterproof
• Low 4mm drop may require adjustment

Star rating: 4.5/5

The Peregrine 16 combines serious trail grip with enough cushioning for longer off-road runs. Its full-coverage Vibram MegaGrip outsole and 4mm lugs are designed for rocks, dirt and mixed terrain, while the rubber toe wrap adds welcome protection from roots and debris. At 239g, it is relatively light for such a rugged shoe.

Underfoot, PWRRUN foam and a PWRRUN+ sockliner create a protected ride, with a 32mm heel, 28mm forefoot and low 4mm drop. This keeps the shoe feeling closer to the trail, although runners used to a higher-drop road trainer may need time to adjust. It is neutral rather than a structured stability shoe.

It offers strong value for a dedicated trail trainer with this level of grip and protection. The regular fit may feel restrictive on wider feet though, and the standard version is not waterproof

Available from:

• Saucony (£112)

Kiprun Kipride Max women's road running shoes

Available from Decathlon (£119.99)

Best cushioned running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Maximal Softech+ cushioning
• Lightweight at 226g
• Breathable mesh upper
• Reinforced collar for a secure fit

Cons:

• No wide-fit option stated
• Not waterproof
• Support category and heel-to-toe drop are not provided

Star rating: 4.5/5

Maximum cushioning does not usually come in such a light package. Weighing 226g in a women’s size 5, the Kipride Max combines a generously cushioned Softech+ midsole with a comfort-focused insole, helping protect the feet during longer road runs.

The foam offers a stated 69% energy return, giving the shoe a more responsive feel than its plush appearance suggests. A breathable mesh upper, 3D-knitted tongue and reinforced collar are designed to keep the foot comfortable and secure as the distance increases.

At £119.99, this is a considerable first-shoe investment, and Decathlon does not state the drop, pronation category or availability of wider fits. It is also made for roads rather than trails. Still, its low weight, true-to-size guidance and generous cushioning make it a strong choice for runners prioritising comfort over longer distances.

Available from:

• Decathlon (£119.99)

Adidas Adizero Evo SL

Available from Size? (£130)

Best stylish running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Exceptionally lightweight
• Responsive Lightstrike Pro cushioning
• Breathable upper
• Great for faster runs

Cons:

• Less stable than traditional daily trainers
• Heel can feel wobbly at slower paces
• Runs slightly small for some

Star rating: 4/5

If you like a fast, lightweight shoe, this is a lot of fun to run in. I found the Lightstrike Pro midsole delivered plenty of bounce and energy, making tempo runs and quicker sessions feel noticeably easier than in heavier daily trainers.

The breathable upper keeps your feet cool and the shoe feels light from the first step. That said, it doesn't offer the same reassuring stability as more cushioned beginner shoes, particularly when jogging at an easy pace or walking.

It's best suited to runners who already have a few miles under their belt and want something quicker for training. Beginners may be better off with a more forgiving daily trainer, but if speed is your priority, this is an excellent option.

Available from:

• Size? (£130)

KEEN men's Roam trail running shoe

Available from KEEN (£130)

Best running trainers for beginners with wide feet

Pros:

• Excellent grip on mixed terrain
• Wide toe box for extra comfort
• Soft QuantumFoam cushioning
• No break-in period

Cons:

• Expensive
• Heavier than road running shoes
• Trail outsole isn't ideal for road-only running

Star rating: 4/5

If you're new to trail running, these inspire confidence straight away. I found the QuantumFoam midsole soft enough for longer runs without feeling unstable, while the generous toe box gave my feet plenty of room on uneven ground.

The outsole grips confidently across gravel, woodland paths and muddy sections, making them feel much more secure than a standard road shoe. They also felt comfortable from the first run, with no noticeable break-in period.

They're a little heavier than road trainers and won't suit runners who stay on tarmac, but if you're planning to explore trails, these are one of the most beginner-friendly options I tested.

Available from:

• KEEN (£130)

ALLSWIFIT women's lightweight comfort running shoes

Available from Amazon (£39.99)

Best budget running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Excellent value
• Soft, well-cushioned ride
• Lightweight and breathable
• Wide, stable platform

Cons:

• Less proven than established running brands
• Long-term durability is unknown
• Some runners may need to size up

Star rating: 4/5

For under £40, these are surprisingly impressive. I found the thick supercritical foam cushioning soft and comfortable on easy runs, while the wide platform made them feel stable and confidence-inspiring from the first wear.

The breathable jacquard mesh upper keeps things cool, and despite the generous cushioning, the shoes feel lightweight enough for beginners building up their mileage. They also double up well for walking and gym sessions.

The main compromise is that ALLSWIFIT isn't an established running brand, so there's less evidence on long-term durability than you'll get with bigger names. Still, if you're looking for an affordable first pair of running shoes, these offer excellent value.

Available from:

• Amazon (£39.99)

NORTIV 8 women's road running shoes ActiveBreeze

Available from Amazon (£37.99)

Best affordable women's running trainers for beginners

Pros:

• Excellent cushioning for the price
• Lightweight and breathable
• Wide, stable platform
• Reflective details for low-light runs

Cons:

• Long-term durability is unproven
• Sizing can vary slightly
• Mesh upper isn't as premium as bigger brands

Star rating: 4/5

It's rare to find a running shoe this comfortable at under £40. I found the cushioned EVA midsole soft and forgiving on easy runs, while the wide platform and deep heel cup made them feel reassuringly stable from the first wear.

The breathable jacquard mesh upper kept my feet cool, and despite the generous cushioning the shoes still felt lightweight enough for beginners who are building confidence. Reflective detailing is another thoughtful touch if you're running in the early morning or evening.

They don't have the proven track record of the bigger running brands, but for anyone starting out on a budget, these offer outstanding comfort and value.

Available from:

• Amazon (£37.99)

Common running shoe terms explained

Running shoes come with plenty of technical terminology, but understanding a few key terms can make it much easier to find a pair that suits your feet, running style and goals. Here's what the most common phrases mean.

Stack height

Stack height refers to the amount of material between your foot and the ground. A higher stack height usually means more cushioning and greater impact protection, making it a popular choice for long runs and everyday comfort. Lower stack heights offer a firmer, more connected feel underfoot and can improve ground awareness.

Heel-to-toe drop

Measured in millimetres, heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. Shoes with a higher drop (typically 8-12mm) tend to reduce the load on the calves and achilles, while lower-drop shoes encourage a more natural foot strike and place greater demand on the lower legs. Neither is inherently better – it's about finding what feels comfortable for you.

Overpronation

Pronation is the natural inward roll of the foot as you land. Overpronation happens when the foot rolls inward more than usual, which can affect alignment and stability for some runners. Stability running shoes are designed with extra support to help limit excessive inward movement.

Supination

Also known as underpronation, supination is when the foot rolls outward rather than inward during your stride. Because less of the foot is used to absorb impact, supinators often benefit from well-cushioned neutral shoes that provide shock absorption without additional stability features.

Toe box

The toe box is the front section of the shoe where your toes sit. A roomier toe box allows your toes to spread naturally, which many runners find more comfortable, particularly on longer runs when feet can swell. A narrower toe box offers a snugger, more performance-focused fit but may not suit wider feet.

Zero-drop platform

A zero-drop shoe has no difference in height between the heel and forefoot, keeping the foot level with the ground. This design encourages a more natural running position and is popular with some trail and minimalist runners. However, if you're used to traditional running shoes with a higher drop, it's best to transition gradually to allow your calves, feet and achilles tendon time to adapt.

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