When you are new to running, shoe choice has a huge impact on comfort and confidence. A good pair helps reduce injury risk, improves stability, and makes adaptation to impact much easier.
Beginner runners should prioritize balanced cushioning, dependable support, and an easy transition through each stride. These 10 models are solid picks for starting on road surfaces and mild urban routes.
The 10 best running shoes to start running in 2026
1. Nike Pegasus 41
Approx. price: ~130-150 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
The Nike Pegasus 41 is one of the safest entry-level choices thanks to its smooth ride and stable platform. It works well for short to medium easy runs.
Its ReactX foam and Zoom Air setup gives comfort without feeling overly soft. Great for building weekly consistency and basic speed control.
2. ASICS Gel Nimbus 26
Approx. price: ~170-200 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
The Gel Nimbus 26 is built for maximum comfort and impact absorption. It is especially useful if you are starting with low tolerance to repetitive impact.
The ride feels soft and protective, making it a strong option for easy-paced progression and longer beginner sessions.
3. Brooks Ghost 16
Approx. price: ~125-155 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
Brooks Ghost 16 is known for consistency and comfort. It delivers a stable and predictable ride, which is exactly what most new runners need.
Its higher drop also helps heel strikers adapt more progressively to regular running sessions.
4. Adidas Supernova Rise
Approx. price: ~120-145 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
The Supernova Rise is a user-friendly daily trainer with solid comfort and stability. It is designed for controlled, easy mileage.
If your goal is to start a routine and stay injury-free, this model gives a reliable and balanced feel on road surfaces.
5. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13
Approx. price: ~150-185 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
The 1080 v13 is a premium comfort-focused option for runners who value smooth cushioning and stable support from day one.
It works very well for easy runs and progressive volume increases while keeping impact stress under control.
6. Hoka Clifton 9
Approx. price: ~130-160 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
Hoka Clifton 9 gives excellent comfort for its weight. It is one of the easiest shoes to run in when you are new and still building strength.
Its geometry supports a stable, protected stride that helps beginners handle road mileage with less fatigue.
7. Saucony Ride 17
Approx. price: ~120-150 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
Saucony Ride 17 offers a great middle ground between comfort and responsiveness. It is a practical one-shoe solution for most new runners.
You can use it for easy runs and gradual pace improvements without feeling under-equipped as your fitness grows.
8. Mizuno Wave Rider 27
Approx. price: ~120-150 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
Wave Rider 27 is a dependable daily trainer with a stable and consistent feel. It is especially good if you prefer a supportive ride.
The higher drop can help beginners transitioning from walking or gym training into regular road running.
9. Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Approx. price: ~100-140 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
Velocity Nitro 3 stands out for value and comfort. It is a smart option if you want a quality shoe without stretching your budget too much.
It also feels agile enough to support your progress once you move from pure easy pace into more dynamic training blocks.
10. On Cloudrunner
Approx. price: ~140-170 eurosIdeal for beginner runners.
On Cloudrunner focuses on stability and structured comfort. It is a strong option for beginners who want a secure and controlled road feel.
Its platform supports consistent, low-risk progression and is well suited to runners building technique and routine.
Quick comparison table
| Model | Weight | Drop | Gait | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Pegasus 41 | 266 g | 10 mm | Neutral | ~130-150 euros |
| ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 | 304 g | 8 mm | Neutral | ~170-200 euros |
| Brooks Ghost 16 | 269 g | 12 mm | Neutral | ~125-155 euros |
| Adidas Supernova Rise | 277 g | 10 mm | Neutral | ~120-145 euros |
| NB 1080 v13 | 262 g | 6 mm | Neutral | ~150-185 euros |
| Hoka Clifton 9 | 248 g | 5 mm | Neutral | ~130-160 euros |
| Saucony Ride 17 | 282 g | 8 mm | Neutral | ~120-150 euros |
| Mizuno Wave Rider 27 | 280 g | 12 mm | Neutral | ~120-150 euros |
| Puma Velocity Nitro 3 | 264 g | 10 mm | Neutral | ~100-140 euros |
| On Cloudrunner | 277 g | 9 mm | Neutral | ~140-170 euros |
How to choose running shoes as a beginner
Start with cushioning: enough to absorb impact, but not so soft that you lose control. Comfort should help you run regularly without excessive fatigue.
Stability and gait type matter too. If you are unsure, begin with a stable neutral shoe and adjust later if recurring discomfort appears.
For weight and drop, beginners usually do well with medium-weight shoes and a drop between 6 and 12 mm. That range supports gradual adaptation.
Also separate road vs trail running. Road shoes are best for asphalt and urban paths, while trail shoes are better for dirt, rocks, and uneven terrain.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need specific shoes to start running?
Yes. They provide impact protection and support designed for repetitive running motion.
How long should running shoes last?
Usually 600 to 800 km, depending on your weight, running form, surface, and weekly volume.
What shoes do beginner runners use?
Most beginners use daily trainers with balanced cushioning, such as Pegasus, Ghost, Nimbus, and Clifton.
What is the best shoe to start running?
The best one is the model that fits your foot shape and keeps you comfortable and stable during regular training.
Start running with people near you
If you also enjoy running with other people, you can find nearby partners at:
https://www.correrjuntos.com
Go to CorrerJuntos