Running can be quite the costly exercise - especially if you want to enjoy the experience and see positive results.
Once you’ve added a matching T-shirt-and-shorts set (which, in our humble opinion, is a necessity), a weatherproof jacket, some thermals for the cold season and an all-important phone holder to your basket, the ever-increasing cost is enough to dissuade even the most motivated individuals.
But here’s the good news - if you’re just starting out, you don’t need to spend a fortune on a pair of trainers. There are countless wallet-friendly styles which deliver both comfort and support in one fell swoop, not to mention other benefits like a sturdy rubber sole for enhanced grip and weatherproof credentials.
For beginners, it’s best to look for lightweight styles that deliver a bouncy yet smooth ride - so enhanced foam cushioning is your friend. Or, if you’re planning on running short-distance speed runs, it’s best to choose a firm design for a powerful take off every stride. Either way, you won’t need to look far to find a pair that suits both your needs and your budget.
Our top tip? Stick to running brands you know you can trust. Whether you prefer Nike or Adidas, New Balance or Asics, each of them offers affordable entry-level options which are perfect for more casual runners.
To save you endlessly searching, we’ve selected high-performing styles under £100 in the list below. Or, If you're looking for something more advanced, you could take a look at our guide to the best running shoes for men, instead.
Shop below
Best phone holders for running: Comfortable armbands, vests and belts
Best running tops for men: Workout t-shirts and singlets reviewed
Best running shoes for men, tried and tested
Best running books to inspire and motivate you
Best running shorts for men from Nike, Adidas and more
Best men’s running tights to get you through the cold weather
New Balance 411v3 Shoes
Whilst New Balance may offer some of the most advanced shoes on the market retailing for as much as £220, the running expert also offers a selection of well-priced alternatives, too. Both comfortable and high-performing, the 411v3 is ideal for those who are just starting out on their couch to 5k journey.
Buy now £55.00, New Balance
Asics Gel-Excite 10
Asics’ Gel-Excite 10s deliver comfortable cushioning and support for neutral runners without pronation. Paired with the breathable mesh upper and the brand’s patented Gel technology to help with impact, this is a shoe that’s perfect for pounding the pavement.
Buy now £80.00, Asics
Nike Revolution 7 Easy On
A brand that needs no introduction, any pair of running trainers adorned with Nike’s iconic Swoosh is sure to deliver. With soft cushioning, enhanced support and a toggle design which means you can tighten them easily with one hand, this is a solid addition to any runner’s collection.
Buy now £59.95, Nike
Adidas Galaxy 6 Shoes
A versatile option, Adidas’ Galaxy 6 comes through whatever the weather. With a rubber outsole designed to work across all surfaces - from wet grass to clay or tarmac - with these in your running arsenal you’ll be ready for any eventuality.
Buy now £45.00, Adidas
Under Armour Men's UA Charged Decoy Running Shoes
Under Armour is a go-to for affordable activewear - running shoes included. As you may have gathered from the name, the Charged Decoy Running Shoes are a powerful design which combines responsiveness and support thanks to the brand’s trademark ‘charged cushioning’.
Buy now £76.00, Under Armour
Castore Men’s T-Runner Bark
You may recognise Castore’s wing logo from Andy Murray’s Wimbledon appearances or on Aston Villa’s football kit. You may have even spotted the brand on the England cricket team’s whites. Whether or not that is the case, Castore is a brand with a reach beyond the running world. All of the brand’s premium collections are designed with performance in mind, so you won’t be disappointed with these shoes - especially considering the price point.
Buy now £95.00, Castore
Hoka Clifton 8
Although Hoka is relatively new to the running shoe game - having been founded in 2009 - it has already built a reputation as one of the best on the market. The latest edition of the award-winning Clifton boasts a lighter midsole and an energetic push-off for improved comfort and performance.
Buy now £90.99, Hoka
Reebok Energen Tech Plus Shoes
Not only do we love the retro look of Reebok’s running shoes, but they deliver on the functional front, too. Comfortable and responsive with added stability thanks to the thick rubber outsole, these will encourage you to go the distance in style.
Buy now £52.00, Reebok
Puma Electrify Nitro 3 Men's Running Shoes
Featuring medium cushioning and neutral support in one lightweight package, Puma’s Electrify is perfect for day-to-day recovery runs - especially for those who are partial to a bold colourway.
Buy now £90.00, Puma
