Ride TR2 GTX

I'm on my fourth pair of Saucony Rides. This year I went back to an older model because I liked it better.

Any running shoe worth having will start at $100 at least unless it’s a past model on sale (which may be 80 or 90 if it’s a good deal). I’d suggest a Saucony Ride or Brooks Ghost to start, both are pretty traditional shoes that a lot of people tend yo do well with. You can definitely find past models on sale. Goong to a running store to get recs is a good idea but I think it’s overkill as a new runner. I do recommend going somewhere with a good return policy (ie REI or Fleet Feet).

Saucony all the way.  I cannot imagine under any circumstances giving up my Endorphin Speeds!  Rides are my go to daily trainer, Hurricane easy/recovery shoe.  There’s something about the fit that feels made for me.

So funny - I just had inaugural Azura run last week. No problem with tongue of shoe but I came away from it feeling like it was harsher ride than I expected. I use Speed 4 for speedwork and in a head to head I would pick the Speeds every day for faster pace efforts. And for long run comfort (10-16mi in my case) I go for Rides. Maybe my experience is a little different being a lightweight woman?

I just got these shoes this weekend.  Ran around the block to try them out and yowza!  They are great!  Reluctantly putting them aside for the next few weeks, though.  Coming out of a six weeks long injury period so sticking with tried and true Rides for just a little longer so as not to upset the applecart by introducing a new variable until well and truly over this knee thing!

I like the Saucony Rides as a peppy daily trainer. Different people have different experiences but to me Azura feels less stable and almost harsh/uncomfortable unless going at a faster pace. I’m a Saucony fangirl and was prepared to love Azuras but not so much- vastly prefer Speeds for workouts and Rides for everything else.

If Saucony works for you, Rides maybe? Light, 8mm drop, stable. They're firm not plush but I use them for long runs and easy days.

There is no objectively best running shoe. It really depends on what kind of running you will be doing, your foot type, whether you pronate, whether you heel strike, etc. Your best bet, particularly at that budget, is to go to a proper running shoe store and speak to them. They will be able to give you professional advice and let you test some shoes on a treadmill. All the brands will have a nice cushioned everyday trainer perfect for a beginner. I've found Saucony shoes really suit my feet and I've loved my Rides and Triumphs. But that might not be right for you.