I'm Lifehacker's resident marathon runner and senior finance writer—and now, I'm merging my two worlds. While running requires minimal equipment compared to other activities, the right footwear can make or break your experience—and your budget. Let's break down what various types of runners should expect to spend on shoes, which investments are worth it, and where you can save without compromising your running experience.
The casual beginner ($60-$90)
If you're just starting out with one or two short runs per week, or mixing running with other forms of exercise, you don't need to spend a fortune. Marketing will tempt you, but I promise, you shouldn't have to go over $100.
What to look for: Simple cushioning, basic support, and comfort.
Worth investing in: A proper fitting. Even at discount retailers like DSW or Famous Footwear, find someone who can watch you walk or run to ensure you're not severely overpronating.
Where to save: Last year's models from major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics often hit the $60-90 range during clearance sales. The Asics Gel-Contend ($59.95) and Nike Revolution ($60-75) offer reliable performance at accessible price points.
What to avoid: Ultra-cheap generic athletic shoes under $40—these often lack the minimal cushioning and support needed even for casual running.
The practical enthusiast ($100-$140)
For those running three to four times weekly, totaling 10-20 miles, you'll want something more substantial that balances price and performance.
What to look for: Good cushioning, modest stability features, and durability for at least 300-400 miles.
Worth investing in: One "do-everything" shoe from a reputable running brand. Popular options include the Brooks Ghost ($109.95), Saucony Ride ($139.95), or New Balance 880 ($139.99).
Where to save: Shop previous generation models or check running specialty stores' clearance racks. Running warehouse websites frequently offer last season's designs at significant discounts.
What to avoid: Premium racing shoes or highly specialized models—you'll pay more for features you don't need yet.
The dedicated athlete ($120-$160+)
These days, I find myself in this category. If you're running 20+ miles weekly, training for half or full marathons, or hitting the track for speedwork, your footwear becomes a crucial training tool.
What to look for: Shoes specific to your running style, gait, and training needs.
Worth investing in: A professional fitting at a specialty running store. The $10-20 premium you might pay for shoes is offset by expert guidance preventing injury. Consider a rotation of two complementary shoes—a cushioned model for long runs (like the NUCLEO 2 at $160) and a lighter, responsive shoe for faster workouts (like the Saucony Kinvara at $119.95).
Where to save: Look for shoes with high mileage ratings (450-500+) to get more value per dollar. They might cost more upfront, but often outlast cheaper alternatives.
What to avoid: Buying solely based on looks or trends. That Instagram-famous shoe might not work for your specific running style.
The competitive racer ($160-$250+)
For serious competitors focused on performance, shoe technology becomes a legitimate competitive advantage. My word of advice: Don't spend money like a competitive racer unless you're confident this is your running identity.
What to look for: Race-specific shoes with carbon plates, specialized foams, and performance-oriented features.
Worth investing in: A proper "super shoe" for race day. The Nike Vaporfly/Alphafly ($250+), Saucony Endorphin Pro ($225), or Adidas Adios Pro ($249.90) can genuinely improve performance through energy return technology. Again: This science only matters once you're running at true elite paces.
Where to save: Reserve these expensive shoes exclusively for races and key workouts. For daily training, use more durable, less expensive models.
What to avoid: Using these high-tech racing shoes for everyday training—they'll wear out quickly and you'll lose the "special" feeling on race day.
The minimalist ($80-$110)
If you prefer natural running with minimal interference between your foot and the ground, you can sometimes spend less—but not always.
What to look for: Low drop (difference between heel and forefoot height), flexible materials, wide toe box.
Worth investing in: Proper transition shoes if you're new to minimalist running. The Altra Escalante ($99.99) or Topo Athletic Phantom 3 ($97.95) offer good value in this category.
Where to save: True minimalist shoes, like Xero Shoes, often cost less than traditional running shoes—but you have to be prepared to train as a borderline barefoot runner.
What to avoid: Ultra-cheap "barefoot-style" knockoffs that don't actually provide the proper anatomical fit needed for safe minimalist running.
The trail runner ($130-$180)
While I don't have as much personal experience here, I know off-road enthusiasts face different demands and usually require specialized footwear.
What to look for: Aggressive tread patterns, rock plates, durable uppers, and protective features.
Worth investing in: Good traction and protection. The Salomon Speedcross ($145) or Brooks Men’s Cascadia 18 Mountain Trail ($139.95) are popular for a reason—they prevent slips and protect against rocks and roots.
Where to save: Unless you're exclusively a trail runner, one pair of trail shoes alongside your road shoes is sufficient. Many road shoes can handle light trails, eliminating the need for multiple specialized trail models.
What to avoid: Waterproof trail shoes unless you run in consistently cold, wet conditions—they're more expensive and less breathable.
What's never really worth it
Regardless of your running style, here are some features that I constantly see marketed, but in my opinion never justify a higher price tag:
Fashion collaborations: Designer-branded running shoes typically add $30-50 without performance benefits.
Gimmicky technology: Be skeptical of proprietary features that can't be explained in simple terms.
"Smart" shoes: Shoes with smart tracking and embedded sensors are neat for about one day, but their value proposition can't compete with a good running watch or app.
Limited edition designs: While they look cool, they function identically to standard versions. As a runner, I understand the temptation. As a personal finance writer, I cannot endorse this type of spending.
Where everyone can save
The right shoes aren't just about performance—they're injury prevention tools. Some money-saving strategies work across all runner types:
Rotation to extend life: Using two pairs alternately can give each shoe time to decompress, allowing you to extend how long each pair lasts.
Outlet shopping: Factory outlets for major brands often sell shoes at 30-40% below retail.
Timing purchases: New models typically release annually, making previous versions excellent values.
Running specialty store loyalty programs: Many offer discounts after multiple purchases or will price-match online retailers.
Remember that the most expensive shoe isn't necessarily the best for you—it's about finding the right match for your specific needs, gait, and running goals. A proper fitting at a specialty running store is worth the time investment, even if you eventually purchase elsewhere. For more, check out my round-up of the best running shoes on the market right now, according to the experts.
