The Best Running Shoes For Beginners, According To Podiatrist's Recommendations & Guidelines

The podiatrists we spoke with love Brooks as a brand, though only certain models from Brooks meet APMA standards and their specific recommendations. If you're just starting out in your running journey, the Brooks Trace 2 is a nicely cushioned shoe.

In fact, its dynamic cushioning technology adapts to your individual running speed and stride. This running shoe for beginners has breathable materials that provide a snug fit while still maintaining airflow and breathability.

We’ve also called it out as the best beginner running shoe in our roundup of the best running shoes for women and the best cushioned running shoes.

Proudly bearing the APMA Seal of Acceptance and the thumbs up from the podiatrists we spoke with, the Puma Deviate Nitro is a great choice for new runners. Kornfeld says, “It has a cushioned forefoot and predictable fit” and new runners can definitely benefit from this level of security.

Notably, this shoe surpasses its acclaimed predecessor, the Deviate NITRO™️, in terms of responsiveness in cushioning. The most recent iteration boasts a complete layer of premium NITRO™️ Elite foam across the midsole, providing unparalleled cushioning and optimizing propulsion.

On Kornfeld’s and Brenner’s list of recommended running shoes for beginners, New Balance’s 1080v12 boasts the brand's most luxurious Fresh Foam cushioning to date.

Kornfeld says, “This is a running shoe for beginners with great cushioning and is built for stability. It has also been cited for its very comfortable fit.” It’s perfect for runners of all ages and skill levels.

The broader midsole delivers enhanced flexibility precisely where the shoe narrows, offering an improved running experience. Furthermore, the shoe's upper ensures breathability, and it maintains an overall lightweight feel.

These shoes come with a removable insole, allowing you to easily insert custom orthotics if required. What's more, the midsole foam incorporates approximately 3% bio-based materials, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious runners.

We’ve shouted out these ASICS running shoes for their exceptional cushioning, comfort, and support. The brand's gel technology is expertly engineered to minimize impact, rendering these shoes an ideal choice for new runners whose muscles aren’t quite used to the impact of running on their muscles and joints.

Our commerce editor previously said the Nimbus Gel 25 is the only shoe she trusts for her long runs. She attests that they offer a gentler landing compared to other models she has evaluated, all without imposing a burdensome weight on your feet.

Featuring a breathable mesh upper and a resilient outsole, these shoes are crafted to endure various weather conditions seamlessly. Moreover, there's an added eco-conscious advantage: At least 30% of the shoe's upper is constructed from recycled materials.

Getting into running can be particularly difficult for people with flat feet. Running can make you susceptible to other foot issues such as bunions, back pain, and even tendon damage.

This shoe offers the right amount of cushion, flexibility, support and a wide toe box to benefit flat footed runners. It's crafted from an engineered mesh upper and featuring the patented BioMoGo DNA midsole, offering a comfortable-yet-secure fit.

This shoe boasts a supportive design and comfortable cushioning. Plus, the GuideRails help maintain proper foot alignment. Notably, this technology also contributes to enhanced knee and hip support, offering a double benefit.

The podiatrists we spoke with tout Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 particularly for its enhanced stability. This model has specifically earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, meaning podiatrists agree it is beneficial for foot health.

Plus, it earned the spot as the best running shoe for stability and high arches in our previous roundup. It proves to be an excellent selection for runners across all proficiency levels, including individuals experiencing knee discomfort, thanks to its patented GuideRails technology that ensures proper foot alignment.

We’re also big fans of the brand’s commitment to sustainability. This shoe incorporates recycled materials, including repurposed plastic water bottles, aligning with the company's ambitious goal to attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Every podiatrist we've consulted gives high praise to Hoka. Defined as orthopedic running shoes on their website, their shoes bear the APMA certification. Podiatrist Dr. Anne Sharkey says that thanks to Hoka’s maximalist design, characterized by a high heel stack and EVA foam composition, their shoes excel in shock absorption. The Speed Goat adds a layer of grippiness and traction which makes it great for trail running, which is why we called it out in our roundup of the best running shoes for women.

When comparing the Speed Goat 4 and 5, the primary distinction lies in their weight and traction. The Speed Goat 5 trumps its predecessor by being half an ounce lighter while providing superior traction on the trails.

Altra is a top recommendation from Dr. Brenner for a wide, maximalist, cushioned shoe that comes available in a variety of widths for men and women. We also love that the Torin 7 even earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, as we mention in our roundup of the best cushioned running shoes.

What sets this running shoe apart is its consideration of anatomical differences in people's feet, evident through its Footshape™ design. Then, the incorporation of an additional two millimeters of the plush and airy Altra EGO™ MAX foam into the midsole enhances the shoe's responsiveness and cushioning.

The Altra Torin 7 features a redesigned tongue that offers an even more luxurious feel, and a contoured heel collar ensures a snug and comfortable fit. Then, an extra two millimeters of high-quality, lightweight foam, elevates the midsole's capacity for rebound.

Hoka’s Clifton 9 is a light and plush option for new runners with flat feet because it provides the necessary stability and support. Kornfeld says, “The Hoka Clifton 9 has excellent cushioning with a neutral stability construction great for everyday running for beginners.”

The shoe’s meta rocker design ensures that each step is characterized by a buoyant and seamless feel. Plus, the generously wide toe box makes it a great choice for those with flat feet.

This is the ninth iteration of the award-winning Clifton shoe which is lighter and has more cushion than its predecessors. It also is designed with a plusher heel and breathable knit material to keep you comfortable on your runs.