Best Budget Running Shoes Under $120

Running in the Saucony Tempus 2 feels like a delightful balance of support and responsiveness, making it a versatile companion for various paces. The PEBA-infused midsole offers a snappy ride, energizing each stride while the stability features provide confidence on the road. Although it may feel firm initially, the shoe molds to your foot with a few break-in miles. Runners who appreciate a lightweight stability shoe that can handle both easy runs and tempo workouts will find joy in this model, while those seeking maximum cushioning or a wider fit might want to explore other options.

The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 delivers a dynamic running experience that feels both light and responsive. Weighing in at just 261g, this shoe transitions seamlessly from easy runs to tempo workouts, making it a versatile choice for various training sessions. The Lightstrike Pro cushioning in the forefoot combined with EnergyRods provides a snappy response, while the Continental rubber outsole ensures excellent grip on both wet and icy surfaces. However, runners with wider feet may find the narrow toebox restrictive, and the shoe's firm feel may not cater to those seeking plush cushioning. Overall, it's ideal for speed-focused runners looking for a durable daily trainer that can handle a range of paces.

The Adidas Adizero SL offers a feather-light experience that feels almost weightless on the foot, making it ideal for tempo runs and daily training. With a roomy toe box and a snug lockdown for narrower feet, it provides a comfortable fit that encourages speed without sacrificing stability. The Lightstrike Pro forefoot delivers a surprising energy return, giving runners a snappy ride that excels at midfoot striking. However, the firm ride may not appeal to those seeking plush cushioning for long distances, and heel strikers might find the narrow heel problematic. Overall, this shoe is perfect for those looking to pick up the pace without the bulk of a traditional racer.

The Adidas Supernova Rise offers a smooth and enjoyable ride, combining a plush Dreamstrike+ PEBA foam with a mild forefoot rocker that facilitates effortless transitions, making it a reliable choice for daily training. It feels light on the foot, weighing in at just 277g, and features a generous toe box that accommodates various foot shapes comfortably. While it excels in providing comfort and energy return, it may not be the best fit for forefoot strikers or those seeking maximum cushioning. This shoe shines for casual runners and those looking for an all-day trainer without sacrificing performance.

The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 offers a lively and responsive ride, making it a joy for midfoot and forefoot strikers. With a plush 28.3mm forefoot foam, it cushions each step while the 6mm drop promotes a natural stride. The shoe's new LIGHTTRAXION outsole, enhanced with Continental rubber, provides excellent grip on various surfaces, ensuring confidence during long runs. However, runners with wider feet may find the tapered toebox restrictive. The energy return from the heel may not satisfy those seeking maximum propulsion, but for those looking for a lightweight and bouncy option, the Boston 13 shines.

Running in the Hoka Arahi 8 feels like gliding over pavement with a reassuring sense of stability. The plush EVA midsole provides a soft landing, while the innovative H-Frame technology keeps the foot securely aligned without the harshness of traditional medial posts. The comfortable knit upper wraps the foot snugly, making it an ideal choice for those long runs or all-day wear. Runners who overpronate will appreciate the shoe’s supportive design, which feels natural rather than corrective. However, those seeking a lightweight, speedy ride may want to look elsewhere, as the Arahi 8 leans towards a more substantial build.

The Hoka Mach 6 offers an exhilarating running experience, characterized by its lightweight construction and a lively ride that feels both bouncy and responsive underfoot. Runners will appreciate the shoe's versatility, seamlessly transitioning from tempo runs to daily training with ease. The comfortable upper hugs the foot, providing a secure fit, while the supercritical EVA midsole delivers energetic propulsion, making every stride feel effortless. However, its narrow fit may not accommodate all foot shapes, and those who prefer a more cushioned heel may find the 5mm drop less suitable. Overall, the Mach 6 is a fantastic choice for speed-focused runners but may not be ideal for those needing extra stability or a wider fit.

The Adidas Ultraboost Light offers a unique running experience characterized by its lightweight feel and plush cushioning. Designed with a snug Primeknit upper, it wraps the foot securely while providing a stable platform for both casual runs and all-day wear. The shoe excels in comfort, making it ideal for easy and recovery runs, but the firm forefoot and steep drop may not suit everyone, particularly forefoot strikers. Runners seeking a stylish, premium shoe with a bouncy ride will appreciate the Ultraboost Light, while those needing more support or a softer feel might want to explore other options.

The Brooks Glycerin 22 offers a plush ride characterized by its premium DNA Tuned dual-density foam, providing exceptional cushioning that feels soft yet supportive. Runners will appreciate the ultra-breathable mesh upper, which keeps feet cool during long runs, while the stable wide platform ensures comfort for heel strikers. However, its heavier weight and steep drop may not suit everyone, particularly those looking for a lighter shoe or faster tempo runs. This shoe is ideal for high-mileage daily trainers who prioritize comfort and durability over speed.

Running in the Salomon Genesis feels like a confident dance across diverse terrains, thanks to its premium MATRYX upper that breathes while holding up against the elements. The shoe's accommodating fit and Active Chassis stability technology create a secure yet flexible ride, allowing runners to tackle everything from rocky trails to muddy paths without hesitation. Whether you're racing or exploring, the QuickLace system ensures you can adjust on the fly, making it ideal for those who value efficiency. However, runners seeking plush cushioning may find it a bit too energetic, as the ride is more about responsiveness than softness.

The PUMA ForeverRun Nitro offers a surprisingly light and bouncy ride for a stability shoe, making it an excellent choice for daily training. Runners will appreciate the natural feel of the RunGuide stability system, which avoids the intrusive nature of traditional medial posts. The shoe excels on both wet and dry surfaces, thanks to its PumaGrip outsole, providing confidence during varied conditions. While it accommodates most foot shapes comfortably, those with wider feet may find the forefoot a bit restrictive. Overall, this shoe is ideal for daily runners seeking a responsive, stable experience, but may not suit those with specific fit needs or looking for maximum durability.

The Hoka Bondi 9 delivers an exceptionally plush ride with its new supercritical EVA foam, offering a lively bounce that makes each stride feel effortless. Runners will appreciate the generous stack height and roomy toe box, providing ample comfort for long distances and recovery runs. The engineered knit upper wraps the foot snugly, enhancing the overall fit without sacrificing breathability. While it excels on easy days, the shoe's bulk and weight may deter those seeking speed or versatility. Ideal for runners prioritizing comfort and cushioning, the Bondi 9 shines on relaxed outings but may leave speedsters wanting more.

The Brooks Cascadia 18 delivers a dependable ride that balances protection and stability, making it suitable for a variety of terrains. With a true-to-size fit and a time-tested trail platform, runners will appreciate its reliability on long distances. The shoe features a protective rock plate and pivot post stability, which provide confidence on rugged paths. However, the midsole may feel slightly dead and requires a break-in period, which could deter those looking for a plush, responsive experience. Ideal for those who prioritize stability and protection, it may not satisfy runners seeking a lightweight, cushioned feel.

Running in the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 feels like gliding on clouds, with an exceptionally cushioned ride that absorbs impact beautifully thanks to its record-breaking forefoot and heel shock absorption. The shoe offers a smooth transition with a less pronounced rocker than its predecessor, making it suitable for both long runs and daily training. While the fit is snug, particularly in the midfoot, it provides a secure feel that many runners will appreciate. However, its heavier weight and rigid structure may deter those seeking a nimble, lightweight option. Runners who prioritize cushioning and stability will thrive in this shoe, while speedsters or those with wider feet might want to explore alternatives.

The Salomon Sense Ride 6 offers a dynamic running experience that seamlessly transitions from road to light trail. With its upgraded Energy Surge foam, runners will appreciate the plush cushioning that provides a smooth ride, making it ideal for daily training. The shoe fits snugly yet comfortably, accommodating various foot shapes, while maintaining a responsive feel across diverse distances. However, while it excels on moderate trails, those seeking aggressive traction for technical singletrack may find it lacking. This shoe is perfect for versatile runners who enjoy exploring different terrains but may not suit those who frequently tackle rugged paths.

The On Cloudsurfer 2 offers a unique running experience characterized by its plush upper and smooth transitions, making each stride feel effortless. The CloudTec Phase technology delivers a ride that is both cushioned and responsive, ideal for runners seeking comfort over longer distances. While it excels in versatility, transitioning seamlessly from runs to casual outings, it may not satisfy those who prefer a softer, more forgiving foam. Runners with wider feet will appreciate the available options, but those with narrower feet might need to size up for a better fit. Overall, the Cloudsurfer 2 is perfect for those who value style and comfort in their daily trainers, but may leave some traditionalists wanting more plushness.

The Nike Vomero 18 envelops the foot in a plush embrace, making each stride feel like running on clouds. With its dual ZoomX and ReactX midsole, it provides exceptional shock absorption and a deep cushioning experience that is perfect for long runs and recovery days. The shoe's wide, stable platform supports a comfortable fit, especially for those with wider or higher-volume feet. However, its weight can become noticeable during faster paces, and the upper may feel warm in humid conditions. Ideal for casual runners seeking comfort and support, those looking for speed or versatility may find it lacking.

The Hoka Challenger ATR 8 delivers a smooth, cushioned ride that effortlessly transitions from paved roads to rugged trails. With its lightweight construction, runners will appreciate the comfort during long distances, making it an ideal daily trainer for those who enjoy variety in their routes. The shoe fits snugly yet allows for natural foot movement, providing a sense of security without sacrificing freedom. While it's perfect for casual trail runners or those just starting to explore off-road paths, more experienced athletes may find its traction lacking on technical terrains, prompting them to seek more aggressive options.

Running in the Adidas Supernova Solution feels like gliding on a soft, responsive surface, thanks to the Dreamstrike+ PEBA foam that provides impressive energy return while maintaining a mild stability. The shoe fits snugly yet comfortably, with a generous toe box that allows for natural foot movement. It excels on daily training runs, offering smooth transitions that enhance cadence without the bulk of traditional stability shoes. However, those seeking aggressive stability control or who prefer a more minimalist design may find this shoe lacking in certain aspects. Overall, it’s perfect for neutral runners wanting a touch of support without sacrificing comfort.

The On Cloudrunner 2 delivers a unique running experience, characterized by its stable yet firm ride. Designed for daily training, it offers a comfortable fit right out of the box, with a wide toe box that accommodates various foot shapes. Runners will appreciate the shoe's durability and support during easy to moderate-paced runs and long walks. However, its firmer Helion foam and heavier weight may not satisfy those seeking a plush ride or faster performance. Overall, it's an excellent choice for runners prioritizing stability and comfort over speed.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 offers a plush, cushioned ride that feels like running on clouds, making it an excellent choice for easy and recovery runs. With a wider toe box and improved breathability, the shoe accommodates various foot shapes while ensuring comfort over longer distances. The firmer midsole provides stability, enhancing the overall ride, but it may lack the responsiveness needed for faster paces. Runners seeking a reliable daily trainer for moderate speeds will appreciate its plushness, while those focused on speed work might find it less suitable due to its weight and softer feel.

The Brooks Launch 11 offers a lively and responsive ride, making it an excellent choice for runners who thrive on speed. With its DNA Flash nitrogen-infused midsole, you’ll feel a genuine pop at faster paces, while the lightweight design keeps you feeling nimble. The shoe's breathable upper ensures comfort during warm runs, and the smooth heel-to-toe transitions enhance efficiency. However, those with wider feet may struggle with the narrow fit, and the increased weight compared to its predecessor might disappoint loyal fans. Ideal for daily training and quicker efforts, it excels for runners seeking a lightweight option but may not satisfy those needing more cushioning for slower recovery runs.

The Saucony Peregrine 15 offers a thrilling ride on technical trails, where its aggressive lugs dig into the earth, providing exceptional grip on mud, rocks, and roots. The shoe fits snugly thanks to its gusseted tongue and Formfit technology, ensuring your foot remains secure during dynamic movements. While it feels noticeably lighter and more comfortable than its predecessor, the Peregrine 13, the ride is firmer, catering to runners who appreciate a responsive feel. Ideal for trail enthusiasts seeking reliable traction and comfort over long distances, it may not suit those who prefer a cushioned experience or need a wider toe box.

The Saucony Peregrine 14 feels like a breath of fresh air on trails, combining a lightweight design with responsive PWRRUN cushioning that energizes your stride. As you navigate varied terrains, the shoe’s nimble build allows for quick transitions, making it an ideal companion for runners who crave speed and agility. The grip is confident on both soft and rocky surfaces, though the cushioning may thin out under extreme conditions. While it fits snugly for a secure feel, those with wider feet might find it constricting. Runners looking for a fast, performance-oriented trail shoe will appreciate its value, but those tackling ultra distances may seek more protection.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 offers an indulgent running experience characterized by its ultra-soft cushioning, making each stride feel like a gentle embrace. Ideal for recovery runs and long, leisurely miles, this shoe excels in delivering stability and support despite its plush design. Runners will appreciate its wide platform, which enhances balance, particularly for those who overpronate. However, the shoe's heavy build and narrow toe box may deter speedsters and those with wider feet, making it a perfect companion for slower-paced, easy runs rather than tempo workouts.

The Topo MTN Racer 3 offers a unique running experience that balances speed and stability, making it ideal for technical trails and varied terrains. The shoe's wide toe box allows for natural foot splay without feeling loose, providing a secure fit that enhances confidence on challenging surfaces. With its lightweight construction and Vibram Megagrip outsole, runners can expect excellent grip and traction, making it a solid choice for both short races and longer adventures. However, those seeking plush cushioning may find the moderate support less than ideal, steering heavier runners or those who prefer a softer ride towards other options.

Running in the Saucony Kinvara 16 feels like reconnecting with the essence of road running, where each stride is light and responsive. This shoe embraces a classic low-stack design, restoring the beloved feel of its predecessors, making it ideal for both daily training and tempo runs. The airy upper and secure 3D heel cup provide stability, while the lightweight construction allows for a swift, almost effortless experience. However, its modest cushioning and narrow fit may deter runners seeking comfort for longer distances or those with wider feet. Overall, it’s a shoe for those who crave speed and agility over plush cushioning.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 offers a unique running experience that blends comfort and performance across varied terrains. With its zero-drop platform and moderate cushioning, runners enjoy a natural foot position that promotes a smooth, responsive ride, making it suitable for long distances. The generous toe box allows for natural toe splay, which is ideal for those who prefer a roomy fit. However, its weight can be felt during extended runs, especially on technical climbs. While the traction is exceptional on wet and rocky surfaces, the shoe's breathability may leave warm-weather runners seeking alternatives.

The New Balance Hierro v8 is a plush and protective road running shoe that envelops your feet in comfort, making it an ideal companion for long distances. With its Fresh Foam X cushioning, it absorbs impact beautifully, allowing you to glide over rocky terrain with ease. The Vibram outsole provides reliable grip, ensuring stability even on uneven surfaces. However, while it excels in comfort and cushioning, the shoe runs warm and may feel heavy for those seeking speed. Runners who prioritize comfort over pace will appreciate this shoe, while speedsters might want to look elsewhere for a lighter option.

Running in the ASICS Novablast 5 feels like gliding on a soft, responsive surface that effortlessly adapts to various paces. The new FF Blast Max foam provides a plush, bouncy ride, making each stride feel light and lively, while the roomier toe box enhances comfort for daily runs or casual wear. However, the shoe's squishy nature may not appeal to those who prefer a firmer feel, and its slightly polarizing rocker design might take some getting used to. Overall, it excels in long distances and easy runs, but speed-focused runners may find it less satisfying.

The Hoka Clifton 10 offers a plush yet stable ride, making it an ideal choice for daily training and long runs. With its updated CMEVA midsole, runners will appreciate the enhanced cushioning and smooth transitions provided by the meta-rocker geometry. The shoe fits true to size with a more accommodating toebox, ensuring comfort for a variety of foot shapes. While it excels in durability and comfort right out of the box, some may find the increased weight and drop change noticeable, particularly those seeking a more responsive feel. Overall, this shoe caters to runners who prioritize cushioning and stability over speed and agility.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 offers a plush and stable ride, perfect for daily training and longer runs. With its 39mm heel stack, runners will appreciate the exceptional cushioning that absorbs impact while providing a secure feel through the GuideRails stability system. This shoe fits a wide range of foot shapes, making it a go-to choice for many. However, its heavier weight and firm midsole may deter those seeking a more responsive or faster-paced experience. Ideal for easy runs, this shoe excels in comfort but may not satisfy speed-focused athletes.

Running in the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9 feels like gliding over a plush, supportive surface designed for exploration. The dual-density Fresh Foam X provides a soft landing while ensuring stability, making it ideal for both long trail runs and light hiking. The generous cushioning absorbs impact, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole keeps you grounded on a variety of terrains, even in wet conditions. However, the shoe's weight may become noticeable on extended outings, and its low drop requires an adjustment period for some runners. Those seeking a nimble shoe for technical trails might find it less suitable, but it's perfect for those who prioritize comfort and protection on diverse landscapes.

The ASICS GT-2000 14 offers a balanced ride, combining a soft and responsive FF Blast Max foam that cushions each step while providing reliable stability for road runners. As you navigate various distances, the shoe feels light yet supportive, making it suitable for both daily training and longer runs. However, the narrow tapered toe box may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably, and the shoe's limited ventilation can lead to warmth during extended outings. Runners seeking a plush experience with a touch of stability will appreciate this model, but those needing a more generous fit or modern energy return might want to explore other options.

The Nike Pegasus 41 delivers a reliable and stable ride, perfect for daily training sessions. With its new ReactX foam, runners can expect a springy feel that enhances energy return, although some may find the forefoot a bit firm. The shoe provides excellent breathability and a snug fit, ensuring a secure lockdown while accommodating various foot shapes. However, its heavier weight may deter those seeking speed during tempo runs. Overall, this shoe is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and stability over lightweight performance, while those looking for a responsive, fast ride might want to explore other options.

Running in the Merrell Agility Peak 5 feels like a dependable journey across varied terrains. The shoe offers a secure fit with its wide option, making it a favorite for those with broader feet. As you navigate through wet crossings, the shoe's effective drainage and reliable traction keep you grounded, though the basic midsole cushioning may leave some seeking more plushness. Ideal for runners who appreciate a straightforward, no-frills experience, the Agility Peak 5 shines in its affordability and performance, but those craving cutting-edge technology and enhanced comfort might find it lacking.

The Nike InfinityRN 4 offers a plush, luxurious ride that feels like running on clouds, thanks to its revamped ReactX midsole. The shoe features a soft, form-fitting Flyknit upper that cradles the foot, providing excellent lockdown and support, ideal for those long, easy runs or recovery days. While it shines in comfort and stability, its heavier weight and minimal energy return may deter speed-focused runners. Overall, this shoe is perfect for neutral runners seeking a reliable daily trainer but may leave performance-oriented athletes wanting more.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 offers a plush, cushioned ride that feels like gliding over the pavement, making it an ideal choice for easy runs and daily training. With a substantial 39.7mm heel stack, runners will appreciate the soft landing and smooth transitions provided by the improved rocker geometry. The wide toe box allows for a comfortable fit, although some may find the overall bulkiness and weight a drawback. While it excels in comfort and stability for beginners and casual runners, those seeking versatility or a responsive feel for faster paces may want to explore other options.

The Brooks Ghost 17 offers a plush and dependable ride, making it an excellent choice for both novice runners and those seeking a reliable daily trainer. The shoe features a soft, cushioned landing that is particularly forgiving for heel strikers, while the versatile design allows for comfortable wear beyond running. Although it shines on easy runs with its cozy DNA Loft v3 upper and improved traction for wet conditions, it may lack the responsiveness desired by speed-focused runners. Overall, this shoe is best for those prioritizing comfort and everyday usability rather than speed or tempo performance.

The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 feels like running on clouds, with its plush 45.6mm heel stack providing exceptional cushioning that cradles your feet during long runs. The upgraded DNA Gold PEBA foam delivers a delightful bounce, making transitions from easy jogs to tempo runs feel effortless. The premium knit upper wraps snugly around the foot, ensuring comfort and support even over extended distances. However, the shoe's heavy build and narrow fit may deter those seeking a lightweight, stable option for sharp turns or fast cornering. Ideal for runners who prioritize cushioning and versatility, it may not suit those with wider feet or those looking for a lightweight racer.

The ASICS Gel-Trabuco 12 offers a unique blend of comfort and stability, making it a reliable companion for road runners tackling varied conditions. With its upgraded FF Blast cushioning, each stride feels well-cushioned yet responsive, ideal for longer distances. The ASICSGRIP outsole ensures excellent traction on wet surfaces, giving runners confidence in slippery conditions. However, the shoe's bulkiness may deter speed-focused athletes, and some may find the ride uninspiring on smoother paths. Those seeking a dependable shoe for mixed weather will appreciate the Gel-Trabuco 12, while speedsters might want to look elsewhere.

The Hoka Rincon 4 delivers a buoyant and lively running experience, perfect for daily training or casual jogs. With its lightweight design, weighing in at just 231g, the shoe offers a smooth meta-rocker transition that encourages a natural stride while providing ample cushioning from the bouncy CMEVA midsole. Runners will appreciate the comfort and fit, particularly those looking for an affordable option for shorter distances. However, those who prefer a more spacious toe box or need a shoe for longer, technical runs may find the Rincon 4 lacking in support and durability.

The Nike Streakfly delivers an exhilarating running experience, characterized by its feather-light weight and responsive ZoomX cushioning. Runners will appreciate the shoe's remarkable energy return and breathability, making it ideal for fast-paced track sessions and short races like 5Ks and 10Ks. However, its unstructured upper may leave some feeling less secure at high speeds, and the absence of a carbon plate limits propulsion, particularly for those seeking a super shoe experience. This shoe shines for speed enthusiasts but may not be suitable for longer distances or those requiring a more locked-in fit.

Running in the New Balance FuelCell SC Trainer v3 feels like a harmonious blend of stability and responsiveness. The shoe's PEBA+EVA foam delivers a firmer ride that propels you forward, especially during tempo runs and marathon training. While the large toebox ventilation holes offer breathability, the narrow fit may challenge wider-footed runners. The full-length Energy Arc carbon plate enhances transitions, making it ideal for uptempo long runs. However, the added weight compared to its predecessor can feel cumbersome at slower paces, appealing most to those who prioritize speed and stability over lightweight performance.

The Nike Structure 25 delivers a stable and supportive ride, making it a solid choice for runners seeking reliability over speed. With its warm and comfortable upper, it hugs the foot securely, while the wide platform and stiff heel counter provide a sense of security on various terrains. However, the shoe's firm midsole and lack of energy return may leave some feeling uninspired during longer runs. Best suited for those who prioritize stability and durability, this shoe may not appeal to speed-focused runners or those in hotter climates who crave breathability.

Running in the New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 feels like gliding over the pavement with a light and responsive touch. The FuelCell foam offers a cushioned yet energetic ride, making it ideal for daily training across various distances. While the shoe's lightweight design enhances comfort, the narrow toe box may squeeze the feet of some runners. The TPU plate adds a playful bounce during transitions, but can create pressure points for others. Overall, this shoe is perfect for casual runners seeking versatility, though speedsters or those needing a roomier fit might want to look elsewhere.

The Altra Provision 8 offers a unique blend of stability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for runners seeking a supportive ride without sacrificing natural foot movement. The shoe features a wider forefoot platform that encourages a natural toe splay, enhancing stability over various distances and terrains. With improved upper durability and added Achilles padding, it feels secure and cushioned. However, those who prefer a firmer heel counter or high energy return might find it lacking. Overall, this shoe caters to runners who value a stable, spacious fit but may not suit those seeking a more responsive performance.

Running in the Nike Invincible 3 feels like gliding on clouds, thanks to its plush ZoomX midsole that offers exceptional cushioning for long distances and recovery runs. The shoe wraps snugly around the foot with a breathable Flyknit upper, providing a secure yet comfortable fit. While it excels in stability and durability, making it a solid choice for high-mileage training, the weight can feel cumbersome. Runners seeking a lightweight, speedy shoe or those who prefer a bouncier ride may find themselves longing for the more agile feel of previous versions. Overall, the Invincible 3 is perfect for those prioritizing comfort and support over speed.