What’s the biggest myth you were told when you first started running? I’ll go first – that it’s ‘free’.
Okay sure, compare it with some other sports and it’s not that bad in the grand scheme of things, but if (like me) you enjoy spending your paycheck on race entries, you’ll find that as your training miles ramp up, the lifespan of your beloved running shoes quickly dwindles.
In fact, if you run more than three or four days a week, you may even consider introducing a running shoe rotation – aka having more than one pair on the go at once.
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But here comes the problem: a decent pair of running shoes doesn’t always come cheap. That’s why, as someone who’s run in hundreds of pairs, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourites that you can currently find for less than £100.
If you’re after a new pair, these won’t disappoint.
Asics Novablast 3
Weight: 253g (M), 220g (W)
Drop: 8mm
Best for? Everyday training
Type: Neutral
At RW, we call the Novablast 3 a ‘holiday shoe’ – the type you’d pack in your suitcase when you only have space for one pair, and want something to do all of your runs in.
The Novablast has built a reputation for being a great neutral shoe with serious bounce and good longevity. And the latest version is no different.
There’s been a pretty significant update in the midsole where the FF Blast foam has been replaced by FF Blast Plus, making it lighter and bouncier. The result? A super comfortable running shoe which is both well cushioned and light, and has a soft landing that still gives great energy return.
Up top, a newly redesigned soft knit upper is both comfortable and rather more stylish than some of the old school Asics trainers too. If you're on the hunt for a reliable all-rounder, you just found it.
Women's - £84.99 at sportshoes.com
Women's - £79.99 at sportsshoes.com
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
Weight: 292g (M) 234g (W)
Drop: 8mm
Best for? Long training runs, easy runs and first-time marathoners
Type: Neutral
With the v13 set to launch this autumn, you can currently find select colourways of the 1080 v12 for less than £100. This reliable workhorse is a great shoe for eating up long miles, or indeed, your first marathon (I’ve actually run three in different versions of the 1080 because they're so comfortable).
Updates from version 11 turned what was already a good shoe into something quite excellent – the rubber ankle collar that caused some runners grief was replaced by a more traditional and comfortable foam collar. The new Fresh Foam X midsole is softer than its predecessor for a truly plush, cushioned ride. And it's got a Hypoknit upper, featuring stretchy mesh which, coupled with the pretty wide forefoot shape, offers ample room for the feet to move on the run.
Women's - £95.99 at sportshoes.com
Women's - £95.99 at sportsshoes.com
Men's - £95.99 at sportsshoes.com
Puma ForeverRUN Nitro
Weight: 274g (M), 224g (W)
Drop: 10mm
Best for? Easy days and long runs
Type: Mild stability
Another great option for steady, easy runs or long runs, the Puma ForeverRun Nitro is a cushioned but lightweight stability shoe that also works well for neutral runners.
The shoe has a dual-density midsole – essentially two different versions of the NITRO foam. The outer layer is firmer while the inner core is softer, the idea being you get both the cushioning and a bit of responsiveness too. The slight, subtle rocker construction transitions you nicely forward onto the mid and forefoot without ever feeling unstable too.
