8 Best Running Shoes Under $100 2026

The Brooks Revel 8 is a revelation in sub-$100 running footwear—offering a rare blend of smooth ride quality, premium breathability, and APMA-accepted support that feels like it should cost far more. With its DNA Loft v2 midsole, this shoe delivers a plush-yet-responsive cushioning experience that adapts dynamically to your stride, making it ideal for runners logging miles on pavement or brisk walkers chasing fitness goals. The engineered mesh upper doesn’t just look sleek—it actively enhances airflow and structure, eliminating hot spots and pressure points that plague lesser models.

On real runs, the Revel 8 shines with a balanced, road-ready feel—its RoadTack rubber outsole grips reliably in dry and damp conditions, while the 12mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural, efficient gait cycle. At 8.8 ounces, it’s light enough for easy jogs but substantial enough to handle longer 5K or 10K efforts without foot fatigue. It transitions seamlessly from treadmill to trail-adjacent sidewalks, though deep treads or trail use will expose its road-focused limits. The midfoot containment is secure without tightness, and the toe box allows slight splay—crucial for swelling during extended wear.

Compared to the cushion-first New Balance Arishi V4 or the stripped-down Nike Downshifter 13, the Revel 8 strikes a sweet spot between performance and polish—it’s more refined than a daily trainer, yet more versatile than a speed shoe. It’s the best pick for runners who want one do-it-all shoe that supports progress without distraction. When stacked against the Launch 11, it trades some pep for greater all-day comfort—making it a smarter choice for mixed-use runners who value long-haul reliability over race-day snap.

The adidas Swift Run bursts onto the scene with a fashion-forward silhouette and a cloud-like EVA midsole that makes it a standout for runners who refuse to choose between style and substance. Its lightweight build and OrthoLite sockliner deliver instant comfort—no break-in needed—making it perfect for city strolls, light jogs, or even standing-heavy workdays. The low-top design and clean monochrome finish give it sneakerhead appeal, while the durable rubber outsole ensures it won’t crumble under daily wear.

In real-world testing, the Swift Run excels as an everyday lifestyle runner, handling concrete sidewalks and gym floors with equal ease. The EVA midsole absorbs impact well for short to mid-distance runs (up to 3 miles), but lacks the resilience for serious training—longer efforts expose its minimal arch support and modest energy return. The regular fit runs large, so sizing down is essential for a secure heel lock, especially during dynamic movements. Breathability is decent, though the dense mesh can trap heat on hot days.

Against the Under Armour Charged Surge 4 or Nike Downshifter 13, the Swift Run wins on aesthetic versatility and step-in comfort, but falls short in performance depth. It’s not built for tempo runs or high-mileage training, but for the urban runner who wants a one-shoe-for-work-and-weekends solution, it’s tough to beat. While it doesn’t match the Brooks Revel 8’s athletic engineering, it offers more street cred and comfort per dollar than nearly any other sub-$70 runner.

The Brooks Launch 11 is a speed-infused dynamo that brings race-day energy to the under-$100 category—thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH foam and ultra-responsive forefoot. This isn’t just a trainer; it’s a pace-pusher engineered for runners who want to shave seconds off their splits, whether in track intervals, tempo runs, or 5K races. The lightweight mesh upper locks the foot down without constriction, while the RoadTack rubber in high-wear zones delivers tenacious grip for explosive takeoffs.

On the road, the Launch 11 feels lively and urgent—its 8.5-ounce frame and snappy midsole encourage faster turnover, making it ideal for speedwork or finishing kicks. The heel-to-toe transition is smooth, though the firm cushioning won’t suit runners craving plushness. Long runs beyond 6–7 miles may lead to foot fatigue, as the shoe prioritizes responsiveness over shock absorption. It’s less forgiving on cracked pavement than the Revel 8, but that’s the trade-off for its racing-ready reactivity.

Compared to the cushion-heavy New Balance Arishi V4 or the supportive Under Armour Assert 10, the Launch 11 is in a different performance class—lighter, faster, and more aggressive. It’s the go-to for runners who want a daily pacer with sprinter’s soul, especially those transitioning from training to racing. While the Revel 8 offers broader versatility, the Launch 11 delivers more propulsion and agility, making it the best choice for speed-focused athletes who refuse to compromise on responsiveness.

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 wraps your feet in a cloud of comfort—its precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole delivers a plush, low-impact ride that’s perfect for runners who prioritize soft landings over speed. This shoe excels in recovery runs, casual jogs, or all-day wear, where cushioning reigns supreme and joint protection is non-negotiable. The no-sew mesh upper glides over the foot with a sleek, irritation-free fit, while the sporty metallic accents add a touch of flair without looking flashy.

In practice, the Arishi V4 feels consistently soft underfoot—ideal for beginners or those with knee or hip sensitivity. At 7.9 ounces, it’s featherlight, yet the foam doesn’t collapse under repeated impacts, maintaining stability through 3–5 mile runs. The rubber outsole is durable for its class, though it lacks strategic flex grooves for elite agility. It’s best on smooth pavement; rough terrain exposes its limited traction and underwhelming midfoot support. Breathability is solid, but not class-leading—feet stay comfortable, not cool, in summer heat.

When measured against the Brooks Revel 8 or Under Armour Charged Surge 4, the Arishi V4 wins on initial softness and lightweight comfort, but trails in structure and responsiveness. It’s not built for tempo runs or racing, but for easy days and comfort seekers, it’s a top contender. While the Revel 8 offers more balanced performance, the Arishi V4 delivers a cozier, gentler ride at a fraction of the cost, making it ideal for low-impact lifestyles and gentle fitness journeys.

The Under Armour Charged Surge 4 is a supportive workhorse that punches above its price with Charged Cushioning, ankle comfort upgrades, and a 8mm offset that balances stability and natural motion. It’s built for runners who want all-day wearability—whether logging miles or standing through a shift—without sacrificing performance. The breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays offers structure where it’s needed, while the Deluxe Comfort System sockliner molds to your foot within days, reducing hot spots and heel slip.

On test runs, the Surge 4 delivers dependable, no-surprises performance—its midsole absorbs impact well for daily training up to 5 miles, though it lacks the rebound of pricier foams. The flexible rubber outsole bends naturally at toe-off, enhancing stride efficiency, and the 8mm heel drop supports a neutral gait without feeling sluggish. At 10.05 oz, it’s not the lightest, but the weight feels stable, not cumbersome. It handles wet pavement decently, though deep grooves would improve grip in rain.

Stacked against the Nike Downshifter 13 or Adidas Run Falcon 5, the Surge 4 offers superior cushioning and ankle comfort, making it a better choice for heavier runners or those needing joint protection. It’s not as stylish as the Swift Run or as fast as the Launch 11, but for daily training and mixed use, it provides more support and durability than most budget runners. While the Brooks Revel 8 has more premium materials, the Surge 4 delivers more protective cushioning and structure for the price, especially for neutral runners with comfort needs.

The Nike Downshifter 13 is the budget king of entry-level runners—delivering solid breathability, a secure midfoot band, and Nike Grind outsole content that makes sustainability part of the package. At under $45, it’s built for beginners, walkers, or gym-goers who need a no-frills, durable shoe without breaking the bank. The soft mesh upper offers airflow and flexibility, while the internal fit band wraps the midfoot like a seatbelt—keeping the foot centered during movement.

In real use, the Downshifter 13 performs like a true starter shoe—adequate for light jogs, treadmill walks, or errands, but not built for serious mileage. The cushioning is basic, with no advanced foam tech, leading to faster fatigue on runs over 3 miles. The extra-wide option is a rarity at this price, making it a win for wider feet often overlooked in budget models. Traction is reliable on dry pavement, though the outsole rubber wears faster than premium models—expect 200–300 miles before sole degradation.

Compared to the Adidas Run Falcon 5 or Under Armour Assert 10, the Downshifter 13 offers better midfoot security and wider sizing, but less cushioning and step-in comfort. It’s not as soft as the Surge 4 or as stylish as the Swift Run, but for first-time runners or casual users, it’s a reliable, accessible entry point. While the Brooks Revel 8 dominates in performance, the Downshifter 13 wins on affordability and fit inclusivity, making it the best pick for those who need a functional shoe without frills.

The Adidas Run Falcon 5 is a no-nonsense, eco-conscious runner that proves performance doesn’t have to cost a fortune—especially with its Cloudfoam midsole delivering step-in softness and a 304g weight that keeps strides light. Made with 20% recycled materials, it’s a smart pick for budget buyers who care about environmental impact without sacrificing comfort. The adjustable laces ensure a snug fit, and the clean two-tone design transitions easily from workout to weekend wear.

In daily testing, the Falcon 5 shines as a light-duty trainer—perfect for short runs, gym sessions, or walking the dog. The Cloudfoam cushioning feels plush at first, but compresses quickly over time, offering minimal energy return on longer efforts. At 304g (size 9), it’s among the lightest in its class, though the upper lacks structure, leading to slight heel slippage during lateral moves. Breathability is average, and the outsole shows wear after 150 miles—expected at this price, but worth noting for high-mileage users.

Against the Nike Downshifter 13 or Under Armour Assert 10, the Falcon 5 wins on eco-credentials and lightweight feel, but trails in durability and support. It’s not built for runners logging serious miles, but for students, casual walkers, or second-shoe users, it’s a high-value, low-cost essential. While the Brooks Revel 8 offers far more performance, the Falcon 5 delivers more sustainability and comfort under $40, making it the best value for eco-minded minimalists.

The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a daily training staple—engineered for runners who log consistent miles and need a durable, responsive shoe that won’t quit. With compression-molded Charged Cushioning, it offers long-lasting responsiveness and solid impact protection, making it ideal for 3–6 mile runs on pavement. The 10mm offset supports a natural stride, while the 8.9 oz weight keeps it nimble without sacrificing stability. The solid rubber outsole covers high-impact zones, reducing wear and extending lifespan beyond most budget models.

In real-world use, the Assert 10 delivers consistent, reliable performance—its EVA sockliner offers soft step-in comfort, and the mesh upper with synthetic overlays balances breathability and structure. It handles tempo runs better than the Arishi V4 or Downshifter 13, though it’s not as fast as the Brooks Launch 11. The lace-up fit is secure, but the toe box is slightly narrow—tight for wide-footed runners. It performs well in dry conditions, but the outsole lacks advanced wet-grip tech.

Compared to the men’s Charged Surge 4, it shares DNA but trims weight and sharpens responsiveness—making it a better fit for female runners focused on daily training. It’s not as plush as the Revel 8 or as stylish as the Swift Run, but for mileage-minded athletes, it offers more durability and performance return per dollar. While the Launch 11 is faster, the Assert 10 delivers more balanced cushioning and longevity, making it the best pick for consistent, high-volume training.