Published: 31/10/2025, By: Alex Courbat

Thinking about giving running a go? Great! you’re about to make one of the simplest, healthiest choices you can. But before you clock those first miles, you’ll need a good pair of running shoes. Not the fanciest or flashiest – just something that feels great, keeps you comfortable, and helps you actually enjoy running. To save you the guesswork, we’ve rounded up our top five 2025 picks for beginners.

Whether you’re aiming for your first 5k or simply want a head-clearing jog after a long day sat behind your desk, you’ve already made the hardest move: getting started! But now comes the next challenge: picking your first pair of running shoes.

For those of you who’ve ever wandered into a running shop or scrolled through pages online, you know how confusing it can be. Some shoes look like they come from another planet, others cost a small fortune (and a few seem suspiciously cheap, too). The good news? You don’t need the fanciest pair. But you do need proper running shoes – ones that feel great from your very first step, protect your joints, and make you want to lace up again, again – and again.

Now, when choosing your first pair, there's three questions you should ask yourself:

1. Is it comfortable? Running shoes shouldn’t need “breaking in.”
2. Does it fit right? Unlike everyday trainers, make sure to about half a size up from your normal shoes (your feet swell a bit when you run).
3. Is it versatile enough? You want a reliable daily trainer that can handle everything from short jogs to long runs.

That’s why, when if consider buying your first running shoe, go to your nearest Sports Direct to try a few models on and see what feels best! And, while you’re there, get a gait analysis – not all of our shops have them but if they do it’s worth doing one. It’ll show how your foot lands and whether you need a neutral or stability shoe. That simple check can help you pick something that matches your running style and avoid injury.

Below are five excellent beginner-friendly shoes for 2025 – each one versatile, comfortable, and built to last as you build your confidence and mileage.

ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27

Best for Maximum Comfort

If comfort’s your main goal when you lace up, the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 could be your new best running mate. This high-cushioned daily trainer is built for both, easy miles and long runs alike, with an ultra-thick midsole that soaks up impact and keeps every stride feeling smooth and stable. It’s also got that signature plush ASICS fit that just hugs your feet in all the right places. Sure, it’s a bit bottom-heavy and the foam’s on the firmer side – but if you love a cushioned, comfort-first ride, the GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 won’t disappoint.

NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM X 1080 V14

Best All-rounder

If you’re only going to pick up one pair of running shoes this year, make it the Fresh Foam X 1080v14. They’re soft, smooth, and just feel… easy to run in – whether you’re out for a gentle jog, piling on the miles, or sneaking in a quicker session.

They’re perfect for neutral runners who want a comfy, reliable shoe that won’t let them down. Heads up though – they run a bit narrower than older versions, so give them a try if your feet are on the wider side. Also, the ride is plush rather than firm, but for comfort and versatility that keeps up with you, they’re absolutely worth it.

NIKE VOMERO PLUS

Best for Maximum Cushioning

If you’re looking to really spoil your feet, the Nike Vomero Plus is your go-to. It’s all about maximum cushioning with zero compromises – packing full-length ZoomX foam, the same tech in Nike’s top racing shoes, but tweaked to deliver everyday comfort. And, with a whopping 45mm of foam under the heel, it’s one of the softest rides you’ll find. This shoe truly shines on easy or recovery runs when you just want to give your legs a break. The cushioning feels springy and lively, not sluggish, and it holds up well even when the weather turns chilly.

That said, it runs a bit narrow and isn’t made for speed – think of it as your comfort cruiser rather than a tempo trainer. It’s also a bit heavier than most, but for that luxurious, cloud-like feel underfoot, most runners are more than happy to forgive the extra weight.

ADIDAS SUPERNOVA RISE 2

Best Value

If you’re after a solid pair of running shoes that won’t break the bank, the Supernova Rise 2 is a clever choice. Adidas has kept things simple here – no unnecessary extras, just a comfy, balanced trainer that gets the job done day in, day out.

It features Dreamstrike+ foam with a Support Rod system that offers gentle stability and smooth transitions. The cushioning is firmer and more grounded than some of the softer shoes out there, but still protective enough, especially if you’re new to running.

Lightweight and breathable, it’s great for short to medium runs, and even a few quicker sessions. If you want one versatile shoe without spending a fortune, this could be the one. It’s not the flashiest shoe around, but sometimes straightforward and reliable is exactly what you need.

ON CLOUDSURFER NEXT

Best for Those Wanting Speed

If you’ve already got a bit of fitness or you’re keen to start picking up the pace, the On Cloudsurfer Next is a solid pick. Thanks to its CloudTec Phase tech, it offers smooth, bouncy transitions with a firmer, more responsive feel.

With a 6mm drop, it’s spot on for mid-foot or forefoot strikers and works really well for tempo or progression runs. The lightweight woven upper looks sharp and feels really premium, plus the updated rubber pads give you good grip no matter the weather.

It’s not the softest shoe out there, so if you’re a heavy heel striker or love plush cushioning, it might feel a bit firm. But if you want a fast, agile daily trainer, this one definitely fits the bill.

READY TO HIT THE ROAD

Picking your first running shoes doesn’t have to be stressful. Any of these five will do a great job as you get into a regular running routine. The key? Give yourself time to break them in, and remember: if they don’t feel comfortable from the start, they’re probably not the right ones. Your feet will let you know what works.

And, if you’re still feeling unsure – come in for a gait analysis. A bit of expert guidance can make a world of difference when finding that perfect first pair.

Now, lace up and enjoy your runs!