10 best affordable running shoes for every budget (2025)
Looking for quality running shoes that won’t break the bank? We’ve tested and reviewed the top affordable running shoes available in the UK market to help you find the perfect balance between performance and price.
Top budget-friendly running shoes reviewed
Under Armour Sonic 7
At £95-£110, the Under Armour Sonic 7 offers impressive value with its responsive Hovr cushioning and lightweight design. The jacquard upper provides a snug fit, though some runners may find it narrow. While it excels in dry conditions, traction becomes challenging on wet surfaces. Perfect for neutral runners seeking a responsive daily trainer on a budget.
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
The Velocity Nitro 3 (£110) stands out as one of the best value options in 2025. Its dual-density midsole delivers excellent bounce and responsiveness, while the durable outsole provides reliable grip on both wet roads and light trails. This versatile shoe has earned high praise from testers for its comfort and durability, making it an excellent choice for everyday training.
Brooks Revel 7
At around £100, the Brooks Revel 7 delivers exceptional value with its balanced cushioning and highly breathable upper. Weighing just 9.1 oz, it’s impressively lightweight for a daily trainer. While the ride may lack excitement for speed work, its durability and versatility make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious runners. As noted by RunRepeat’s extensive testing, it’s particularly suitable for easy-paced runs.
Asics Novablast 5
Though slightly pricier at £135, the Novablast 5 justifies its cost with premium features. The plush and responsive foam provides excellent energy return, while the wide platform ensures stable strides. According to Runner’s World experts, it excels in versatility, working well for both short and long distances.
Kalenji Jogflow 500.1
The most budget-friendly option at £39.99, the Kalenji Jogflow 500.1 proves that quality running shoes don’t need to be expensive. Its well-cushioned and responsive design encourages proper midfoot striking, though it’s best suited for distances up to 10K. An excellent choice for beginners or those needing a reliable trainer for shorter runs.
Key features to consider
- Cushioning level and responsiveness
- Weight and flexibility
- Durability of materials
- Grip and traction capabilities
- Breathability of upper material
When shopping for affordable running shoes, consider visiting specialty running stores during seasonal sales. As reported by Runner’s World UK, major retailers often offer significant discounts during spring and fall seasons, making premium models more accessible to budget-conscious runners.
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10 best affordable running shoes for every budget in 2025
Budget running shoes: top picks under £100
Finding quality running shoes doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are the best affordable running shoes available for under £100 that deliver excellent performance and value:
Under Armour Sonic 7 – £95-£110
The Under Armour Sonic 7 offers impressive performance at an accessible price point. With responsive Hovr cushioning and a lightweight design (9.1 oz for men, 7.5 oz for women), it provides a fast and energetic feel. The jacquard upper ensures breathability, though the fit runs slightly narrow. While traction could be better on wet surfaces, it remains an excellent value for daily training.
Brooks Revel 7 – £100
The Revel 7 stands out as a versatile budget option with exceptional breathability and comfort. At just 9.1 oz, it features a balanced midsole and gusseted tongue for enhanced fit. While the ride may lack excitement for speed work, its durability and reliable performance make it perfect for everyday runs. The highly breathable upper keeps feet cool during longer sessions.
Kalenji Jogflow 500.1 – £39.99
For runners on a strict budget, the Decathlon Kalenji Jogflow 500.1 delivers remarkable value. At just £39.99, it offers impressive cushioning and responsiveness while encouraging proper midfoot striking. Though best suited for distances up to 10K, its lightweight design (203g) and 4mm drop make it an excellent choice for beginners or casual runners.
Key features to look for in budget running shoes
- Balanced cushioning for comfort and responsiveness
- Breathable upper materials
- Durable outsole construction
- Proper fit and support for your running style
- Weight under 10 oz for efficient movement
While these budget-friendly options may lack some premium features found in more expensive models, they provide the essential performance characteristics needed for successful training. The latest running shoe tests show that affordable models continue to close the gap with their premium counterparts in terms of technology and comfort.
Finding the best deals
To maximize value when shopping for budget running shoes, consider purchasing previous generation models or watching for seasonal sales. Many retailers offer significant discounts during major running events and holidays. The Runner’s World deals section regularly highlights the best current offers, with some premium shoes occasionally dropping below £100 during sales.
For the budget-conscious runner, these affordable options prove that quality running shoes don’t require a premium price tag. By focusing on essential features and proven designs, these models deliver reliable performance for regular training and casual racing needs.
10 best affordable running shoes for every budget (2025)
Running shoe buying guide: essential features and materials
When shopping for affordable running shoes, understanding key features and materials is crucial for making an informed decision. Here’s what to look for in your next pair of budget-friendly running shoes.
Cushioning and midsole technology
The midsole is arguably the most important component of a running shoe, providing essential cushioning and energy return. Modern affordable shoes like the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 feature dual-density midsoles that offer both bounce and responsiveness without the premium price tag.
- EVA foam: Common in budget-friendly shoes, provides good cushioning
- Proprietary foams: Like Under Armour’s HOVR, offering enhanced responsiveness
- Stack height: Higher stack provides more cushioning but may reduce stability
Upper construction and breathability
A well-designed upper ensures comfort and proper fit while maintaining durability. Look for materials that offer good ventilation and support:
- Engineered mesh: Provides breathability and flexibility
- Reinforced areas: Around toe box and heel for added durability
- Gusseted tongue: Prevents sliding and improves fit
Outsole durability and traction
The outsole needs to balance grip with longevity. Runner’s World testing shows that even affordable shoes can offer excellent traction and wear resistance:
- Carbon rubber: Most durable, commonly used in high-wear areas
- Blown rubber: Lighter and more cushioned, but less durable
- Multi-surface patterns: Versatile grip for different conditions
Support features and stability
Different runners need varying levels of support. Modern affordable shoes offer various support features:
- Neutral support: Suitable for runners with normal arches
- Stability features: Guide rails or posts for overpronation
- Wide base: Provides natural stability without added weight
Weight considerations
Lighter shoes generally feel faster but may sacrifice durability. Many affordable options now strike an excellent balance:
- Racing shoes: 200-250g
- Daily trainers: 250-300g
- Maximum cushioned: 300-350g
Drop and stack height
These measurements affect how the shoe feels and performs:
- Low drop (0-4mm): More natural feel, requires stronger calves
- Medium drop (5-8mm): Versatile for most runners
- High drop (8-12mm): Traditional feel, reduces Achilles strain
Remember that expensive doesn’t always mean better. Many affordable running shoes now incorporate similar technologies and materials as their premium counterparts, making them excellent value for money. The key is finding the right balance of features that match your running style and needs.
Where to find running shoe deals and discounts
Finding the best deals on running shoes requires knowing where and when to look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you secure quality running footwear at the most competitive prices in the UK market.
Seasonal sales and major events
The best time to buy running shoes often coincides with major sporting events and seasonal changes. April is particularly notable for running shoe deals, coinciding with major marathons in Manchester and London. During these periods, retailers offer significant discounts on premium models, with savings often reaching 30-40% off retail prices.
Online retailers and price comparison
Online shopping typically offers better value than brick-and-mortar stores. Runner’s World regularly updates their deals section with verified discounts on popular models, making it a reliable source for finding legitimate savings.
Membership programs and loyalty schemes
Many retailers offer exclusive discounts through membership programs. Start Fitness’s club discount program provides regular savings on running gear, while specialist running shops often have loyalty schemes offering members early access to sales and exclusive discounts.
Best places to find running shoe deals
- Specialist running retailers: Often provide expert fitting services alongside competitive prices
- Online marketplaces: Major platforms frequently offer significant discounts during seasonal sales
- Direct brand websites: Sign up for newsletters to receive early sale notifications and exclusive discounts
- Running-specific outlets: The Running Outlet and similar stores specialize in previous season models at reduced prices
Tips for maximizing savings
- Compare prices across multiple retailers before purchasing
- Consider last season’s models, which often offer similar performance at reduced prices
- Sign up for retailer newsletters to receive early sale notifications
- Look for bundle deals that include running accessories
- Check return policies to ensure you can exchange if the fit isn’t right
When shopping for deals, remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Focus on finding quality shoes that meet your running needs while offering good savings on the regular retail price.
Running shoe size guide and fitting tips
Getting the right fit for your running shoes is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect fit for your affordable running shoes.
Understanding running shoe sizing
Running shoes typically need to be slightly larger than your regular shoe size to accommodate foot swelling during exercise. Consider these key points when sizing:
- Leave about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s tip
- Try shoes on in the afternoon when feet are naturally more swollen
- Wear the same type of socks you plan to run in
- Consider that feet may be different sizes – fit to your larger foot
Width considerations
Different brands offer varying width options. For example, the Under Armour Sonic 7 tends to run narrow, while the Asics Novablast 5 provides a wider platform. Consider your foot width when selecting from these options:
- Narrow (A): Slender feet with minimal width
- Standard (B/D): Average width for women/men
- Wide (2E): Additional space for wider feet
- Extra Wide (4E): Maximum width for particularly broad feet
Essential fitting tips
When trying on running shoes, follow these guidelines:
- Test shoes by running, not just walking
- Ensure there’s no heel slippage when running
- Check for adequate toe box room – toes should be able to spread naturally
- Pay attention to any pressure points or rubbing
- Consider your running gait and pronation type
When to try shoes on
Timing matters when fitting running shoes. Expert testers recommend trying shoes:
- Later in the day when feet are naturally larger
- After a short walk or light activity
- With proper running socks
- When you have time to properly test them
Breaking in new shoes
Even affordable running shoes need a proper break-in period:
- Start with short runs (20-30 minutes)
- Gradually increase distance over 1-2 weeks
- Alternate between new and old shoes initially
- Pay attention to any discomfort or hot spots
Signs it’s time to replace your shoes
To maintain proper support and prevent injury, watch for these indicators:
- Visible wear on the outsole, especially in high-impact areas
- Compressed or wrinkled midsole foam
- Upper material tears or separation
- Approximately 400-500 miles of use
- Unusual aches or pains during runs