What are the best cushioned running shoes for beginner runners?
Looking for your first pair of cushioned running shoes and confused as to what to buy? We’ve filtered it down to 4 top picks that are great for beginner runners as well as those who are more experienced.
How do cushioned running shoes benefit your training?
Here are three main reasons to invest in running shoes with a great amount of cushioning:
Less joint impact: Cushioning minimises stress on your knees and ankles during runs, which can help prevent injuries.
Better comfort: A soft and supportive platform makes running more enjoyable and comfortable, especially when your legs are tired.
Better consistency: By reducing leg fatigue and discomfort, cushioned running shoes prove to be helpful to support regular training.
When should you wear cushioned running shoes?
Beginner runners will greatly benefit from wearing cushioned shoes that will help absorb impact and provide comfort as your body adapts to the activity.
But runners of all levels and abilities should have at least one pair of cushioned running shoes in their rotation for the following runs:
Long runs: Extended distances put more stress on your joints and muscles, making extra cushioning beneficial for reducing fatigue, discomfort and the risk of injury.
On hard surfaces: When running on pavement or other hard surfaces, cushioned shoes softens the impact on your feet, knees and hips.
For recovery runs: Following an intense speed workout or race, cushioned shoes can make recovery runs more comfortable and less taxing on your body.
What are the best cushioned running shoes right now?
If you’re on the market for your first or next pair of cushioned running shoes, check out these top picks and keep reading to find out more about each of them!
Saucony Ride 18
The Saucony Ride is an incredibly comfortable shoe for your daily runs and it’s very durable. I personally have the Ride 17 which are still in great shape after hundreds of miles in them.
Its PWRRUN foam midsole combined with FORMFIT technology that cradles your foot for a secure fit offers a cushioned yet stable platform.
Especially great for runners with neutral pronation, the Saucony Ride 18 is perfect for beginners looking to build their mileage. It even exists in a wide version.
RRP: £130 - Find it here
Nike Vomero 17
The Nike Vomero 17 is a premium choice for runners who prioritise plush cushioning. The dual-layer design featuring ZoomX foam and Cushlon 3.0 foam delivers a soft yet responsive feel that adapts to your stride
Beginners will enjoy the padded heel and supportive fit, which reduce fatigue on longer runs. The Vomero’s breathable mesh upper and durable rubber outsole make it a great all-around shoe for various terrains.
RRP: £144.99 - Find it here
On CloudEclipse
The CloudEclipse has been my personal favourite and go-to max cushioned running shoe since I’ve bought my first pair. It’s perfect for easy runs of all lengths and also feels great when you pick up the pace, whether you move onto steady pace or finish your easy plod with some strides.
Featuring the brand’s CloudTec® technology, this shoe features individual pods in the outsole that compress upon impact, creating a smooth and cushioned ride.
The Helion™ superfoam adds lightweight responsiveness, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced runners.
The CloudEclipse also boasts a sleek design with a breathable upper, ensuring comfort on warmer days.
You can ready my unsponsored On CloudEclipse review here.
RRP: £169.99 - Find it here
ASICS Novablast 5
The Novablast 5 features an updated FF BLAST™ PLUS foam midsole, which is lighter and more responsive than previous versions, for a springy and cushioned ride.
The engineered mesh upper has been redesigned for better breathability and an adaptive fit, ensuring your feet stay cool and secure throughout your run.
The durable AHAR™ outsole provides excellent grip and durability, making the Novablast 5 an outstanding choice for beginners seeking a shoe that combines bounce, comfort and reliability.
RRP: £134.99 - Find it here
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